Page:Sketches of the life and character of Patrick Henry.djvu/124

 100 SKETCHES OF THE

and gave a new proof of the invincible energy by v^hich they were actuated^ in a series of resolutions, whereby they pledged themselves to make common cause with the people of Boston, in eveiy extremity; and broke off all commercial connexion with the mother country, until the gi'ievances of which they complained should be re- dressed. By their last resolution they empowered their moderator, Mr. Peyton Randolph, or in case of his death, Robert C. Nicholas, esquire, on any future oc-

exce^t ne^oes' cloths, salt, saltpetre, powder, lead, utensils and implements for handy craftsmen and manufacturers, which cannot be had in America; books, paper, and the like necessaries ; and not to purchase any g-oods or merchandize that shall be imported from Great Britain, after a certain day that may be agreed on for that purpose, by the said general meeting of depu- ties at Williamsburg, except the articles aforesaid, or such as shall be allow- ed to be imported by the said meeting; and that we will encourage the manu- factures of America by every means in oiir power. A regard to justice hinders us at this time from withholding our exports ; nothing but the direct necessity shall induce us to adopt that proceeding, which we shall strive to avoid as long as possible.

The African trade for slaves, we consider as most dangerous to the vu'tue and welfare of this country ; we therefore most earnestly wish to see it totally discouraged.

A steady loyalty to the kings of England has ever distinguished our country; the present state of things here, as well as the many instances of it to be found in our history, leave no room to doubt it. God gi'ant that we may never see the time when that loyalty shall be found incompatible with the rights of freemen. Our most ardent desire is, that we and our latest posterity, may continue to live under the genuine, unaltered constitution of England, and be subjects in the true spirit of that constitution, to his majesty, and his illustrious house ; and may the wretches who affirm that we desire the con- trary, feel the punishment due to falsehood and villany.

While prudence and moderation shall guide your councils, we trust, gen- tlemen, that firmness, resolution, and zeal, will animate you in tlie glorious struggle. The arm of power, which is now stretched forth against us, is in- deed formidable ; but we do not despair. Our cause is good ; and if it is served with constancy and fidelity, it cannot fail of success. We promise you our best support,;and we will heartily join in such measures as a majority of our countrymen shall adopt, for securing- the pubUc liberty.

Resolved, that the above address be transmitted to the printers, to be'pub- lisbed in the gazettes.

William Pollabd, Clerk.

�� �