Page:Sketches of the life and character of Patrick Henry.djvu/291

 of those worthy characters who composed a part of the late federal convention. I am sure they were fully impressed with the necessity of forming a great conso- lidated government, instead of a confederation. That this is a consolidated government, is demonstrably clear; and the danger of such a government is to my mind very striking. I have the highest veneration for those gentlemen; but, sir, give me leave to demand, what right had they to say, ive, the people? My political cu- riosity, exclusive of my anxious solicitude for the pubHc welfare, leads me to ask, who authorized them to speak the language of, ive, the people, instead of, ive, the states? States are the characteristics, and the soul of a confe- deration. If the states be not the agents of this com- pact, it must be one great, consolidated, ncdional govern- ment of the people of all the states. I have the highest respect for those gentlemen who formed the convention; and were some of tliem not here, I would express some testimonial of esteem for them. America had, on a. former occasion, put the utmost confidence in them; a confidence which was well placed ; and I am sure sir^ I would give up any thing to them ; I would cheerfully confide in them as my representatives. But, sir, on this great occasion, I would demand the cause of their conduct. Even from that illustrious man, who saved us by his valour, I would have a reason for his conduct — that liberty which he has given us by his valour, tells me to ask this reason — and sure I am, were he here, he would give us that reason: but there are other gentle- men here, who can give us this information. The peo- ple gave them no power to use their name. That they exceeded their power, is perfectly clear. It is not mere curiosity that actuates me — I wish to hear the real, actual, existing danger, which should lead us to take

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