War Inevitable

They tell us, Sir, that we are

weak - unable to cope with so formidable

an adversary. But when

shall we be stronger? Will it be the

next week, or the next year? Will

it be when we are totally disarmed,

and when a British guard shall be stationed in every house?

Shall we gather strength by irresolution and inaction?

Shall we acquire the means of effectual resistance by lying

supinely on our backs, and hugging the delusive phantom

of hope, until our enemies shall have bound us hand and

foot? Sir, we are not weak, if we make a proper use of

those means which the God of nature hath placed in our

power.

Three millions of People, armed in the holy cause of

liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess.

are invincible by any force which our enemy can send

against us. Beside, Sir, we shall not fight our battles alone.

There is a just God who presides over the destinies of

Nations, and who will raise up friends to fight our battles

for us. The battle, Sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to

the vigilant, the active, the brave. Besides, Sir, we have

no election. If we were base enough to desire it, it is now

too late to retire from the contest. There is no retreat but

in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged! Their

clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! The war

is inevitable; and let it come! I repeat, Sir, let it come!

It is in vain, Sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen

may cry, Peace, Peace!-but there is no peace. The war

is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the

North will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms!

Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here

idle? What is it that 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!

Signed

Patrick Henry