ABSTRACT
The greatness of a state, and the happiness of its subjects, how independent so ever they may be supposed in some respects, are commonly allowed to be inseparable with regard to commerce. As private men receive greater security, in the possession of their trade and riches, from the power of the public, so the public becomes powerful in proportion to the opulence and extensive commerce of private men. There may be some circumstances, where the commerce and riches and luxury of individuals, instead of adding strength to the public, will serve only to thin its armies, and diminish its authority among the neighbouring nations. A state is never greater than when all its superfluous hands are employed in the service of the public. Freedom naturally begets public spirit, especially in small states; and this public spirit must encrease, when the public is almost in continual alarm, and men are obliged to expose themselves to the greatest dangers for its defence.
