Final answer:
In the given excerpt, Richard Saunders wants to comply with his wife's wishes to put his knowledge to a profitable venture. However, he raises concerns about the ability to provide for the population in the kingdom.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the provided excerpt, Richard Saunders expresses his desire to comply with his wife's wishes to put his knowledge to a profitable venture. He mentions that he is open to considering any offer proposed by wise men that is innocent, cheap, easy, and effectual. However, he also raises concerns about the current state of affairs, specifically regarding the ability to provide for the large population in the kingdom. Saunders suggests that before rejecting his proposal, the politicians should ask the parents of the people living in poverty about their opinions.