Chap. L.} 1773. Dec. |
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being truly brave and truly resolved, he speaks
the language of moderation: ‘Shouts and hosannas will not terminate the trials of this day, nor popular resolves, harangues, and acclamations vanquish our foes.
We must be grossly ignorant of the value of the prize for which we contend, of the power combined against us, of the inveterate malice and insatiable revenge which actuate our enemies, public and private, abroad and in our bosom, if we hope that we shall end this controversy without the sharpest conflicts.
Let us consider the issue, before we advance to those measures, which must bring on the most trying and terrible struggle this country ever saw.’
Thus spoke the younger Quincy.
‘Now that the hand is to the plough,’ said others, ‘there must be no looking back,’1 and the whole Assembly of seven thousand voted unanimously that the tea should not be landed.
It had been dark for more than an hour.
The Church in which they met was dimly lighted; when at a quarter before six Rotch appeared, and satisfied the people by relating that the Governor had refused him a pass, because his ship was not properly cleared.
As soon as he had finished his report, Samuel Adams rose and gave the word: ‘This Meeting can do nothing more to save the country.’2 On the instant a shout was heard at the porch; the warwhoop resounded; a body of men, forty or fifty3 in number, disguised as Indians, passed by the door; and encouraged by Samuel Adams, Hancock and others, repaired to Griffin's wharf, posted guards to
1 William Turner's Deposition.
2 Francis Rotch's Information before the Privy Council.
3 J. D. Whitworth's Deposition.
Boston: Little, Brown and Company, 1859.
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