Kennedy, J. (fl. 1780) to Charles Cox

[Draft]
London, 28 July 1780
Dear Sir.
Before one more score of years add the numbers the 89 which have elaps'd since that stupendous Era of Events from which they began to be [calculated], perhaps all the ruling powers of the Earth may pursue that plan of peace and goodwill towards all men as may accomplish that wish of yours express'd in your letter to my neighbour, such a period may perhaps be requir'd for the light of the present century to diffuse itself so as to dispel the mists which evnelope those great and therefore conspicuously little characters some of whom seem to think the dignity and glory of Government to consist in subjecting millions of being to their domination, but long before this century expires let us hope that the primary and grand object now contesting will issue in that liberal accommodation as shall nobly accord with the natural rights of mankind and that each empire may render to each that mutual benefit which their different climates and manufacturers seem'd design'd by providence to be design'd not for objects of Envy depredation and conquest but as [illegible] of intercourse and reciprocal advantage and enjoyment, England and America [2] altho the former has had dominion over the latter, still let them be again in friendships altho' the latter has resisted what she thought to be [imposition!] - It may be and has been the custom and policy of nations to usurp and maintain dominion over each other, but upon what principle of reason, religion or natural right can such policy by defended? I have thus far scribbled on without revising, I refer to your criticism and correction these loose thoughts penn'd as they arose - My system indeed is, that if possible for such events to take place that every state shou'd act according to the Golden rule laid down for the conduct of Individuals - this since the World began never has been the case, perhaps the Golden age is approaching and perhaps England and American are design'd to be the first and noble Exemplars to the World.
That you pass the time so agreably, both Mr Hawkins and myself are happy to hear and wish it may not have too much of the alloy of anxiety but this we hope will be largely compensated by future [3] happiness compos'd of those ingredients which we mortals think supremely good. Fleets and armies conquest and defeat Riches and poverty Health and sickness pain and pleasure and all the rest of terrestrial distinctions must interest us dwelling as we do beneath the Sun and Moon but whether we enjoy all the best of the catalogue or endure all the worst - there have been principles and still are which can reconcile the whole.
I acknowledge my anxiety to hear that you are departed with a brisk and favorable gale which will remain upon the [illegible] till [illegible] some favorite Bark shall [illegible] me tidings of your safe arrival and all that I wish to hear which is nothing less than general, as well as your particular, prosperity. If you can employ yourself in the manner I wish it will be to invite me before you sail - and afterwards by not omitting any of the opportunities that may offer either by Sea or Land. Mrs. K - Mr and Mrs H join in those wishes [illegible] if they cod. ensure to your wod. be realiz'd wod. complete that happiness in is the desire of
[Drsr] yor Friend and obedt Servt
JKennedy