Were this argument less convincing, the fact speaks for itself: her progress in the course of the last year is an incontestable proof.
"It is true France in a manner created a fleet in a very short space, and this may mislead us in the judgment we form of her naval abilities.

But if they bore any comparison with those of Great Britain, how comes it to pass, that with all the force of Spain added, she has lost so much ground in so short a time, as now to have scarcely a superiority.

We should consider what was done by France, as a violent and unnatural effort of the government, which, for want of sufficient foundation, can not continue to operate proportionable effects.
"In modern wars, the longest purse must chiefly determine the event.

I fear that of the enemy will be found to be so.

Though the government is deeply in debt and of course poor, the nation is rich, and their riches afford a fund which will not be easily exhausted.