Date: 1777
Promises and rewards, it was said, might procure votes, but could neither create or purchase eloquence and ge nius [17].  From the epic poem [18] tothe ballad [19], and from the elaborate dissertation [20] tothe periodical sheet [21], every engine of argument or wit was levelled against the present administration.  This had, and always will have, its effect ; a few instances of severity against some of the most un guarded offenders [22], could not restrain the greater number ; and the popular writers in general succeeded in raising the indignation of the people, and even their laughter, which was still of more consequence.