“That the said paper being industriously circulated by emissaries of the enemy, in a partial and secret manner, the same ought to be forthwith printed for the public information.

“The Committee cannot ascertain whether the contents of the said paper have been framed in Philadelphia or in Great Britain, much less whether the same are really and truly intended to be brought into the Parliament of that kingdom, or whether the said Parliament will confer thereon the usual solemnities of their laws.  But are inclined to believe this will happen, for the following reasons: 

“1st.  Because their General hath made divers feeble efforts to set on foot some kind of treaty during the last winter, though either from a mistaken idea of his own dignity and importance, the want of information, or some other cause, he hath not made application to those who are invested with a proper authority.

“2dly.  Because they suppose that the fallacious idea of a cessation of hostilities will render these States remiss in their preparations for war.

“3dly.  Because believing the Americans wearied with war, they suppose we will accede to the terms for the sake of peace.

“4thly.  Because they suppose that our negotiations may be subject to a like corrupt influence with their debates.

“5thly.  Because they expect from this step the same effects they did from what one of their ministers thought proper to call his conciliatory motion, viz. that it will prevent foreign powers from giving aid to these States; that it will lead their own subjects to continue a little longer the present war; and that it will detach some weak men in America from the cause of freedom and virtue.

“6thly.  Because their King, from his own shewing hath reason to apprehend that his fleets and armies, instead of being employed against the territories of these States, will be necessary for the defence of his own dominions.  And,

“7thly.  Because the impracticability of subjugating this country, being every day more and more manifest, it is their interest to extricate themselves from the war upon any terms.

“The Committee beg leave further to observe, That, upon a supposition, the matters contained in the said paper will really go into the British Statute Book, they serve to shew, in a clear point of view, the weakness and wickedness of the enemy.

“THEIR WEAKNESS,

“1st.  Because they formerly declared, not only that they had a right to bind the inhabitants of these States in all cases whatsoever, but also that the said inhabitants should absolutely and unconditionally submit to the exercise of that right.  And this submission they have endeavored to exact by the sword.  Receding from this claim, therefore, under the present circumstances, shews their inability to enforce it.

“2dly.  Because their Prince had heretofore rejected the humblest petitions of the Representatives of America, praying to be considered as subjects, and protected in the enjoyment of peace, liberty, and safety; and hath waged a most cruel war against them, and employed the savages to butcher innocent women and children.  But now the same Prince pretends to treat with those very Representatives, and grant to the arms of America what he refused to her prayers.