speech in the virginia convention by patrick henry

Is it that insidious smile with which our petition has been lately received? Trust it not, sir it will prove a snare to your feet. And judging by the past, I wish to know what there has been in the conduct of the British ministry for the last ten years to justify those hopes with which gentlemen have been pleased to solace themselves and the House. I know of no way of judging the future but by the past. I have but one lamp by which my feet are guided, and that is the lamp of experience. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty? Are we disposed to be of the number of those who, having eyes, see not, and, having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth to know the worst, and to provide for it. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren till she transforms us into beasts. President, it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. Should I keep back my opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offense, I should consider myself as guilty of treason towards my country, and of an act of disloyalty toward the Majesty of Heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings. It is only in this way that we can hope to arrive at truth, and fulfill the great responsibility which we hold to God and our country. For my own part, I consider it as nothing less than a question of freedom or slavery and in proportion to the magnitude of the subject ought to be the freedom of the debate. The questing before the House is one of awful moment to this country. But different men often see the same subject in different lights and, therefore, I hope it will not be thought disrespectful to those gentlemen if, entertaining as I do opinions of a character very opposite to theirs, I shall speak forth my sentiments freely and without reserve.

No man thinks more highly than I do of the patriotism, as well as abilities, of the very worthy gentlemen who have just addressed the House.

Speech in the virginia convention by patrick henry