The Importance of a Strong Military Establishment

A sufficient force to make head against a sudden descent, till the militia could have times rebelling and embody, is all that has been deemed requisite. No motive of national policy has demanded, nor would public opinion have tolerated, a larger number of troops upon its domestic establishment. If we are wise enough to preserve the union, we may, for ages, enjoy an advantage similar to that of an insulated situation. Europe is at a great distance from us. Her colonies in our vicinity will be likely to continue too much disproportionate in strength to give us any dangerous annoyance. Extensive military establishments cannot, in this position, be necessary to our security. Our liberties would be a prey to the means of