They tell us, Sir, that we are weak -- unable to
cope with so formidable an adversary. But when shall we be stronger?
Will it be the next week, or the next year? Will it be when we are totally
disarmed, and when a British guard shall be stationed in every house?
Shall we gather strength by irresolution and inaction? Shall we acquire
the means of effectual resistance by lying supinely on our backs, and
hugging the delusive phantom of hope, until our enemies shall have bound
us hand and foot? Sir, we are not weak, if we make a proper use of those
means which the God of nature hath placed in our power.
Three millions of People, armed in the holy cause
of liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess, are invincible
by any force which our enemy can send against us. Beside, Sir, we shall
not fight our battles alone. There is a just God who presides over the
destinies of Nations, and who will raise up friends to fight our battles
for us. The battle, Sir, is not to the strong alone. It is to the vigilant,
the active, the brave. Besides, Sir, we have no election. If we were
base enough to desire it, it is now too late to retire from the contest.
There is no retreat but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged!
Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! The war is inevitable.
and let it come! I repeat, Sir, let it come!
It is in vain, Sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen
may cry, Peace, Peace! -- but there is no peace. The war is actually
begun! The next gale that sweeps from the North will bring to our ears
the clash of resounding arms! Our breathren are already in the field!
Why stand we here idle? What is it that Gentlemen wish? What would they
have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the
price of chains and slavery! Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what
course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!
