Common Sense by Thomas Paine (excerpt)
Volumes have been written on the subject of the struggle between England and America. Men of all ranks have embarked in the controversy, from different motives, and with various designs; but all have been ineffectual, and the period of debate is closed. Arms as the last resource decide the contest; the appeal was the choice of the King, and the Continent has accepted the challenge.
It hath been reported of the late Mr. Pelham (who tho' an able minister was not without his faults) that on his being attacked in the House of Commons on the score that his measures were only of a temporary kind, replied, "THEY WILL LAST MY TIME. " Should a thought so fatal and unmanly possess the Colonies in the present contest, the name of ancestors will be remembered by future generations with detestation.
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Select the correct answer.
What is the main purpose of the final sentence in the excerpt from Thomas Paine's Common Sense?
Should a thought so fatal and unmanly possess the Colonies in the present contest, the name of ancestors will be remembered by future generations with detestation.
A.
to indicate that the American colonists can establish a better government than a monarchy
B.
to appeal to the colonies to avoid any temporary resolution of their conflict with Great Britain
C.
to justify the colonies' struggle for freedom from Great Britain
D.
to dissuade some of his fellow colonists from supporting reconciliation with Great Britain
E.
to caution his fellow colonists about the future risks of war the colonies may face