the querist containing several queries proposed to the consideration of the public i the lord have brought down the high tree, have exalted the low tree, have dried up the green tree, and have made the dry tree to flourish. -- ezek. xvii, 24.
advertisement by the author the querist was first published in the year one thousand seven hundred and thirty-five; since which time the face of things is somewhat changed. in this edition some ations have been made. the three parts are published in one; some few queries are added, and many omitted, particularly of those relating to the sketch or plan of a national bank, which it may be time enough to take again in hand when the public shall seem disposed to make use of such an expedient. i had determined with myself never to prefix my name to the querist, but in the last edition was overruled by a friend, who was remarkable for pursuing the public interest with as much diligence as others do their own. iapprehend the same censure on this that i incurred upon another occasion, for meddling out of my profession; though to feed the hungry and clothe the naked, by promoting an honest industry, will, perhaps, be deemed no improper employment for a clergyman who still things himself a member of the commonwealth. as the sum of human happiness is supposed to consist in the goods of mind, body,and fortune, i would fain make my studies of some use to mankind with regard to each of these three particulars, and hope it will not be thought faulty or indecent in any man, of what profession soever, to offer his mite towards improving the manners, health, and prosperity of his fellow-creatures.
query
1 whether there ever was, is, or will be, an industrious nation poor, or an idle rich?
2 whether a people can be called poor, where the common sort are well fed, clothed, and lodged?
3 whether the drift and aim of every wise state should not be, to encourage industry in its members? and whether those who employ neither heads nor hands for the common benefit deserve not to be expelled like drones out of a well-governed state?