To the Council of the Five Hundred January 28, 1798

To the Council of the Five Hundred January 28, 1798

PARIS,

CITIZENS REPRESENTATIVES :

Though it is not convenient to me, in the present situation of my affairs, to subscribe to the loan toward the descent upon England, my economy permits me to make a small patriotic donation. I send a hundred livres, and with it all the wishes of my heart for the success of the descent, and a voluntary offer of any service I can render to promote it.

There will be no lasting peace for France, nor for the world, until the

tyranny and corruption of the English government be abolished, and England, like Italy, become a sister Republic. As to those men, whether in England, Scotland, or Ireland, who, like Robespierre in France, are

covered with crimes, they, like him, have no other resource than committing more. But the mass of the people are the friends of liberty: tyranny and taxation oppress them, but they deserve to be free.

Accept, Citizens Representatives, the congratulations of an old colleague

in the dangers we have passed and on the happy prospect before us.

Salut et Respect.

THOMAS PAINE.