But the greater the danger of war, the more incumbent was it on the government to unite public opinion in support of it; and this would best be effected by observing a line of conduct which would furnish no just cause of hostility.

The commercial discriminations proposed were of a hostile and irritating nature, might render war certain, would be considered by many as unnecessary, and might impair that unanimity in which the great strength of the country consisted.

It was submitted to the gentlemen to decide whether it was wise to press their system through, with so small a majority as was in its favour.
The resolutions were defended on the principle, that though not in themselves contributing to the national defence, they would not prevent the adoption of such other measures as the state of things might render necessary.

If war should take place, they could do no harm.

But war must at some time be succeeded by peace: and they would form a valuable basis for negotiation.[15] [Footnote 15: In the course of this debate the resolutions were still considered as calculated to promote the interests, not of the United States, but of France.