Daily Richmond Whig. [volume] (Richmond, Va.) 1840-1842, 1842-04-06

'1> Franklin" advocates n suspension OF the
Distribution Act on account OF the probability Of
rupture between this country and England. II a
rupture were To occur, or even II the probability
were strong. We should be willing surrender that
or any other fund for the defence of the county,
But there is nc such probability. All the rumours
We have had on that subject, designed to Ope'
rate upon Congtess-,o induce it to grant large ap.
Preparations, and possibly to cause repeal or sus
pension OF the Distribution Act. We have many
unpleasant points in controversy with England
bu, mono OF them are of n character which may not
be easily adjusted. They might be so managed as
TO lead to war, ii such were the policy Of either
Government; but it IS too clearly the interests OF
both countries to preserve peace, to hazard all the
caamities Of the most DISASTROUS war On point Of
etiquette, 10 suLserve the ambition or cupidy OF
politicians in either country. The Tory Ministry
in England, may consider war a stroke OF policy
but 10y what train ofrensonng they to that con-
clusion, are at loss to divine. Considering the
disesses of the labourng class in England, and the
widespread dissatisfaction in Ireland, il Is by no
means certain, that would tend TO consolidate
their strength, and confirm their power. IL might
have an effect just the opposite. And then, il
could not be expected that the war would he con-
fined 10 Grea, Britain and the United States. In
less than 90 days, France, and perhaps Russia
would embark in the contest The war spirit in
France can scarcely be repressed, in these pr
ping times Of peace. With the cannon sounding on
every side, Monsieur would go rnving mad Il no,
permitted to partake OF the glories and perils Of the
fight.
Notwithstanding the naughty tone Of England
and her unsatisfactory conduct towards generally,
VIC entertain no apprehension, that she meditates
hosiilities. Because neither her Government nor
her people can gain by war-and both may be
great oosOts. Here, il Is pretty much the same.
Our Administration, TO be sure, is very weak, and
might hope 10 gather some strength by ralyns
around 1t the whole people in contest with foreign
Zoe. But 1t IS so very weak. that no accession Of
strength by that expedient could save it-and, If
Mr. Tyler's pitiabIe EXPLANATIONS about having not
one friend on earth, he indication it is conscious
Of its weakness.
Move cannot consent to give up Vrginias
interest in the public Lands from any present
prospect of War. We want that Money TO diifusc
through her borders tho blessings OF peace and when
the war cloud lowers, her people will be ready to
pour out their blood and treasure in defence Of III.
land.
As to the idea, that should at oil tunes be
prepared for war; 1t is pre- posterous in the extreme
A war establishment as settled policy, would be
Incompatible with the existence OF a republic. 1t
might repel the foreign invader, but 1t would sub
vert liberty at home. We must expect, whenever
we to war with any powerful adversary, to be
badly drubbed for the first three, probably SIX
months. This is inevitable-from the want OF that
military organization, which is too dangerous to free
institutions to be tolerated in time Of peace Blu, in
the end, when the energies OF the people shall be
aroused, and brough. into play, the citizen soldiers
will prove as brave as the mercenary and, at the
same time that they conquer their enemies, they
| will maintain their freedom.