JOHNSON. 'Sir, that is all visionary. I would not
give half a guinea to live under one form of government rather than
another. It is of no moment to the happiness of an individual. Sir, the
danger of the abuse of power is nothing to a private man. What Frenchman
is prevented from passing his life as he pleases?' SIR ADAM. 'But, Sir,
in the British constitution it is surely of importance to keep up a
spirit in the people, so as to preserve a balance against the crown.'
JOHNSON. 'Sir, I perceive you are a vile Whig. Why all this childish
jealousy of the power of the crown? The crown has not power enough. When
I say that all governments are alike, I consider that in no government
power can be abused long. Mankind will not bear it. If a sovereign
oppresses his people to a great degree, they will rise and cut off his
head. There is a remedy in human nature against tyranny, that will keep
us safe under every form of government. Had not the people of France
thought themselves honoured as sharing in the brilliant actions of Lewis
XIV, they would not have endured him; and we may say the same of the
King of Prussia's people.
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