Patrick Henry’s point of view is that the American colonists can no longer trust the British and should break away from their control.
I have but one lamp of experience. I know of no way of judging of the future but by the past. And judging by the past, I wish to know what there has been in the conduct of the British ministry for the last ten years, to justify those hopes with which gentlemen have been pleased to solace themselves, and the House? Is it that insidious smile with which our petition has been lately received? Trust it not, sire; it will prove a snare to your feet.
Henry focuses on the opposing viewpoint that relations with Britain may improve. Henry responds to that viewpoint by acknowledging that there are people who view Britain differently. But he also provides evidence of why that viewpoint is flawed.
Ask yourselves how this gracious reception of our petition comports with these war-like preparations which cover our waters and darken our land. . . . . Has Great Britain any enemy, in this quarter of the works, to call for all this accumulation of navies and armies? No, sir, she has none. They are meant for us; they can be meant for no other. They are sent over to bind and rivet upon us those chains which the British ministry have been so long forging.
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