The combined fleets of France and Spain last year were greatly superior to those of the enemy; the enemy nevertheless sustained no material damage, and at the close of the campaign gave a very important blow to our allies.

This campaign, the difference between the fleets, from every account I have been able to collect, will be inconsiderable: indeed it is far from clear that there will be an equality.

What are we to expect will be the case if there should be another campaign?
In all probability the advantage would be on the side of the English, and then what would become of America?
We ought not to deceive ourselves.

The maritime resources of Great Britain are more substantial and real than those of France and Spain united.

Her commerce is more extensive than that of both her rivals; and it is an axiom, that the nation which has the most extensive commerce will always have the most powerful marine.