11 May 1811

Influence

P. I

Ch.3. J.B.’s Proposition

17

By the single force of each one of these circumstances, much more by the joint force of them all, the influence of property in so far as in it is included the influence of will on and over will is rendered in respect of its political effects much more pernicious, because more effective, than that particular mode of corruptive influence which is distinguished by the name of bribery.

If there be any principle of decomposition by which that portion of the influence of property which is /being/ composed of /consists of/ influence of will and will is by prop. < > sinister and undue can be separated from that influence which being exercised on the understanding only is not undue - detached from it and being so detached {dissipated and in respect of its effect} annihilated, that principle of decomposition will by those to whom the influence of will on will is acknowledged /recognized/ to be sinister and as such fit to be extirpated - will by all such persons, supposing them to think and act consistently, be acknowledged to be an useful principle, and as such fit to be applied to this same purpose.

This principle is the principle /practice or mode/ of secret suffrage, commonly in respect of the most usual mode of applying it, ballot - voting in the way of ballot.