4 Benjamin Franklin [1756
be totally lost, perhaps never to be recovered; and
therewith all the commercial and political advantages,
 that might have attended the continuance of
this respect and this affection.
In my own private judgment, I think an immediate
repeal of the Stamp Act would be the best measure
for this country; but a suspension of it for three years
the best for that. The repeal would fill them with
joy and gratitude, reéstablish their respect and veneration
 for Parliament, restore at once their ancient
and natural love for this country, and their regard
for every thing that comes from it; hence the trade
would be renewed in all its branches; they would
again indulge in all the expensive superfluities you
supply them with, and their new-assumed home industry
 would languish. But the suspension, though
it might continue their fears and anxieties, would at
the same time keep up their resolutions of industry
and frugality; which in two or three years would
grow into habits, to their lasting advantage. However,
 as the repeal will probably not be now agreed
to,” from what I think a mistaken opinion, that the
honor and dignity of government is better supported
by persisting in a wrong measure once entered into,
than by rectifying an error as soon as it is discovered;
we must allow the next best thing for the advantage
of both countries is the suspension; for, as to executing
 the act by force, it is madness, and will be ruin to
the whole.
The rest of your friend’s reasonings and propositions
 appear to me truly just and judicious. I will
1 Jt was, however, agreed to in the same year, viz, in 1766.

ze
ol
iL