Page:Sketches of the life and character of Patrick Henry.djvu/218

 194 SKETCHES OF THE

masters. In this state of extreme danger, we have no alternative left, but an abject submission to the will of those overbearing tyrants, or a total separation from the crown and government of Great Britain: uniting and exerting the strength of all America for defence, and forming alhances with foreign powers for commerce and aid in war. Wierefore, appealing to the Searcher of hearts for the sincerity of former declarations, express- ing our desire to preserve the connexion with that nation, and that we are driven from that inclination by their wicked councils, and the eternal laws of self- preservation,

" Resolved, uiianimously, That the delegates ap- pointed to represent this colony in general congress, be instructed to propose to that respectable body, to

DECLARE THE UNITED COLONIES FREE AND INDEPENDENT

STATES, absolved from all allegiance to, or dependence upon, the crown or parHament of Great Britain; and that they give the assent of this colony to such declara- tion, and to whatever measures may be thought proper and necessary by the congress for forming foreign alh- ances, and A CONFEDERATION OF THE COLONIES, at

such time, and in the manner, as to them shall seem best. Provided, that the power of forming government for, and the regulations of, the internal concerns oi each colony, be left to the respective colonial legisla- tures.

" Resolved, imanimously, That a committee be ap- pointed to prepare a declaration of rights, and such a plan of government as will be most likely to maintain peace and order in this colony, and secure substantial and equal liberty to the people.'"

This measure was followed by the most lively demon- strations of joy. The spirit of the times is interestingly

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