I am most fervently devoted ... to abhorrence of Independency (sic), which, if effected, would inevitably plunge our once pre-eminently envied Country into
ruin, horror, and desolation Great Britain has afforded to all mankind the most
perfect proof of her wise, lenient and magnanimous government on the Colonies
Innumerable are the advantages of our connection with Britain, and a just
dependence on her is a sure way to avoid the calamities and horrors of war. [Thomas
Paine) surely forgets that when independent, we cannot trade with Europe. ...
In short, I affirm that it would be most excellent policy in those who wish true
liberty to submit by an advantageous reconciliation to the authority of Great
Britain. ... Independence and slavery are synonymous terms.
---James Chalmers (Candidus), Plain Truth, 1776
5 According to this passage, what are two reasons that independence would ruin America?