The power of France had not then arrived at its
present height, nor had their monarchs openly threatened to enslave
all the nations of Europe. The princes of the empire had then no
oppression to fear, but from the emperour; and it was no wonder, that
when he was their only enemy, they wished that his power was reduced.
How much the state of the continent is now changed, is not necessary
to mention, nor what alteration that change has introduced into the
politicks of all nations; those who formerly dreaded to be overwhelmed
by the imperial greatness, can now only hope to be secured by it from
the torrent of the power of France; and even those nations who have
formerly endeavoured the destruction of Austria, may now rejoice, that
they are sheltered by its interposition from tyrants more active and
more oppressive.
But, my lords, though it should be granted that the house of Austria
ought not to be supported, it will not, in my opinion, follow, that
this motion deserves our approbation; because it will reduce us to a
state of imbecility, and condemn us to stand as passive spectators of
the disturbances of the world, without power and without influence,
ready to admit the tyrant to whom chance shall allot us, and receive
those laws which the prevailing power shall vouchsafe to transmit.
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