George Bancroft, History of the United States from the Discovery of the American Continent, Vol. 6, 10th edition.

‘ [135] to the Commissioners,’ he continues. ‘I have not

Chap. XXXII.} 1768. March

the shadow of authority or power. I am obnoxious to the madness of the people, yet left exposed to their resentment without any possible resort of protection, I am then asked why I do not apply for troops, as well to support the King's Government as to protect the persons of his officers. I answer, His Majesty's Ministers have within these three years been fully acquainted with the defenceless state of this Government, and therefore I leave it entirely to the Administration to determine upon a measure which they are much more able to judge of, and be answerable for, than I can be. I shall have danger and trouble enough when such orders arrive, though I keep ever so clear of advising or promoting them. Those who have the command of the mob can restrain them, and of course let them loose.’¹ ‘Your Lordship may depend upon it, that nothing less than the abolition of all the Acts imposing duties is proposed. When that is done, the transition to all other acts of Parliament will be very short and easy.’²

Such were Bernard's importunities for troops, while he was giving the strongest assurances that he had not written any thing to get them sent; and he used to protest he wished the people of the Province could have a sight of all his letters to the Ministry, that they might become convinced of his friendship.³ At the same time he was constantly entreating the Secretary to conceal his correspondence.