"It is natural to man to indulge in the illusion of hope. We are apt to shut
our eyes against the painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren, till
she transforms us into beasts."  -- Patrick Henry

"cæsar had his Brutus; Charles the First, his Cromwell; and George the Third ["Treason!" cried
the Speaker]--may profit by their example. If this be treason, make the most of it."
 -- Patrick Henry, Speech in the Virginia Convention, 1765.

"I am not a Virginian, but an American." -- Patrick Henry, September, 1774.

"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!"  -- Patrick Henry, March 23rd 1775.