It is for that,if any,and for that alone to furnish a decision which neither party shall dare in theory to disavow.It is something to reconcile men even in theory.They are at least,something nearer to an effectual union,than when at variance as well in respect of theory as of practice.
21.In speaking of the supposed contract between King and people,(87)I have already had occasion to give the description,and,as it appears to me,the only general description that can be given,of that juncture at which,and not before,resistance to government becomes commendable;or,in other words,reconcileable to just notions;whether of legal or not,at least of moral,and,if there be any difference,religious duty.(88)What was there said was spoken,at the time,with reference to that particular branch of government which was then in question;the branch that in this country is administered by the King.But if it was just,as applied to that branch of government,and in this country,it could only be for the same reason that it is so when applied to the whole of government,and that in any country whatsoever.It is then,we may say,and not till then,allowable to,if not incumbent on,every man,as well on the score of duty as of interest,to enter into measures of resistance;when,according to the best calculation he is able to make,the probable mischiefs of resistance (speaking with respect to the community in general)appear less to him than the probable mischiefs of submission.This then is to him,that is to each man in particular,the juncture for resistance.
22.A natural question here isby what sign shall this juncture be known?
By what common signal alike conspicuous and perceptible to all?A question which is readily enough started,but to which,I hope,it will be almost as readily perceived that it is impossible to find an answer.Common sign for such a purpose,I,for my part,know of none:he must be more than a prophet,'I think,that can shew us one.For that which shall serve as a particular sign to each particular person,'I have already given onehis own internal persuasion of a balance of utility on the side of resistance.