Page:The Fall of the Alamo.djvu/150

 Devoted service, true fidelity Views less the wishes than the happiness Of him who seeks advice, e'en at the pain Of suff'ring for his kindly-given aid. Relying on our generosity, Which has not learnt in vain how to distinguish The person from his office, speak thy boldest. So be it then! and may the influence Of Heaven inspire my tongue to touch your heart. 'T be far from me to shield or to defend The people who conjured this insurrection By armed resistance 'gainst the commonwealth, The ballot's patience was their proper course. But still I doubt, if force and violence Be yet the best, the most appropriate means To lead them back to their accustomed duty. What other way wouldst thou commend to us? You have asserted your authority. And shown your power they never can defeat. So make it known, that, if they will abandon Their rash revolt and henceforth will abide In peace and law, in loyalty and faith.