Read the following excerpt from The American Crisis and answer the question. Wisdom is not the purchase of a day, and it is no wonder that we should err at the first setting off. From an
excess of tenderness, we were unwilling to raise an army, and trusted our cause to the temporary defense of
a well-meaning militia.

What is the purpose of these lines?

A. to describe what it is like to face an enemy in battle

B. to show how peaceful relations can be achieved

C. to emphasize the need for force

D.
to suggest the price of seeking freedom