Be of good courage, my son, and remember that the best men always make themselves.

The militia is our ultimate safety. We can have no security without it. The great object is that every man be armed.

Are we at last brought to such an humiliating and debasing degradation, that we cannot be trusted with arms for our defense?

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!

What right do they have to say "we the people" rather than we the States?

This is all the inheritance I give to my dear family. The religion of Christ will give them one which will make them rich indeed.

Guard with jealous attention the public liberty. Suspect everyone who approaches that jewel. Unfortunately, nothing will preserve it but downright force. Whenever you give up that force, you are inevitably ruined.