Just in case you have forgotten this most famous quote from Patrick Henry's speech to the Virginia Convention - words of equal import - and maybe more so - today as then:

"The gentlemen may cry Peace, peace! but thee is no peace. The war has actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethern are already in the field! Why stand here idle? What is it that the gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God. I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!"


[I would also like to recommend Eric Burns' excellent book, Virtue, Valor, and Vanity, a rare look at those who were so important to the founding of this country}


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