Question

What is the main idea of this letter:

“Yes, Bill, nothing will save us but an entire stopping of trade, to both England and the West Indies, throughout the continent, and that must be determined both speedily and absolutely. The least hesitation by you to the south and all is over. . . . I sincerely believe they [the British Parliament] intend to carry out their threats, which are to make the town a desolate wilderness and the grass to grow in our streets.”

Answer 1

The main idea of this letter appears to be a call for a complete halt in trade between the American colonies, England, and the West Indies as a means to resist British oppression and coercive measures. The letter expresses the urgency of this action, suggesting that any hesitation or delay in stopping trade to the south could have dire consequences for the American colonies, such as the destruction of their towns and a disruption of daily life due to British threats and punitive actions. It reflects the writer's belief that the British Parliament intends to carry out these threats.