“This is certain, and will be granted, that the product of our
improved colonies raises infinitely more trade, employs more
hands, and, I think I may say, by consequence, brings in more
wealth to this one particular nation or people, the English,
than all the mines of New Spain do to the Spaniards.”[294]
In this vision the author of “Robinson Crusoe” was permitted to see the
truth with regard to our country, although failing to recognize future
independence.