Quote by Benjamin Franklin
Some punishment seems preparing for a people who are ungratefully abusing the best constitution and the best King any nation was ever blessed with, intent on nothing but luxury, licentiousness, power, places, pensions, and plunder; while the ministry, divided in their counsels, with little regard for each other, worried by perpetual oppositions, in continual apprehension of changes, intent on securing popularity in case they should lose favor, have for some years past had little time or inclination to attend to our small affairs, whose remoteness makes them appear even smaller.
Summary
This quote suggests that there may be a punishment awaiting a nation that is ungrateful and abuses its exceptional constitution and King. The people are accused of being solely focused on their own indulgence, selfish motivations for power and wealth, without regard for the greater good. Meanwhile, the divided and bickering ministry, consumed by political concerns and popularity, has neglected the insignificant matters of the people, who are distant from the center of power. This short explanation highlights the pessimistic tone of the quote and serves to elucidate the underlying criticism of the government and society.