you to
abhor the war, its cause, and its consequences. Let us not be among
the first who renounce the maxims of our forefathers.

(_Letter to the Sheriffs of Bristol, on the affairs of America_.)

WILLIAM COWPER 1731-1800

THE CANDIDATE FOR PARLIAMENT

_To the Rev. John Newton_.

_March_ 29, 1784.

MY DEAR FRIEND,--It being his majesty's pleasure that I should yet have
another opportunity to write before he dissolves the parliament, I
avail myself of it with all possible alacrity. I thank you for your
last, which was not the less welcome for coming, like an extraordinary
gazette, at a time when it was not expected.

{90} As when the sea is uncommonly agitated, the water finds its way
into creeks and holes of rocks, which in its calmer state it never
reaches, in like manner the effect of these turbulent times is felt
even at Orchard side, where in general we live as undisturbed by the
political element, as shrimps or cockles that have been accidentally
deposited in some hollow beyond the water mark, by the usual dashing of
the waves. We were sitting yesterday after dinner, the two ladies and
myself, very composedly, and without the least apprehension of any such
intrusion in our snug parlour, one lady knitting, the other netting,
and the gentleman winding worsted, when to our unspeakable surprise a
mob appeared before the window; a smart rap was heard at the door, the
boys halloo'd, and the maid announced Mr Grenville. Puss was
unfortunately let out of her box, so that the candidate, with all his
good friends at his heels, was refused admittance at the grand entry,
and referred to the back door, as the only possible way of approach.

Candidates are creatures not very susceptible of affronts, and would
rather, I suppose, climb in at a window, than be absolutely excluded.
In a minute, the yard, the kitchen, and the parlour, were filled. Mr
Grenville advancing toward me shook me by the hand with a degree of
cordiality that was extremely seducing. As soon as he and as many more
as could find chairs were seated, he began to open the intent of his
visit. I told him I had no vote, for which he readily gave me credit.
I assured him I had no influence, which he was not equally inclined to
believe, and the less, no doubt, because Mr Ashburner, the {91}
drapier, addressing himself to me at this moment, informed me that I
had a great deal. Supposing that I could not be possessed of such a
treasure without kno