it, Sir, we must fight. An appeal to
arms and the God of Hosts is all that is left to us. 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 next year, or next week?
Sir, we are not weak if we make the proper use which the God of Nature
has placed in our power. Our chains are forged! Their clanking may be
heard on the plains of Boston! The war is inevitable, and let it come!
Our brothers are all ready on the field. Why stand we here idle! 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!
(Much applause).

_End of Act II._

ACT III.

INTRODUCTION:

The next act will be the second Continental Congress where George
Washington was elected Commander in Chief of the American army and
where Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and others were appointed
to draw up the Declaration of Independence.

MR. HANCOCK, SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE: You all know that in the first
Continental Congress we pledged to stand by Boston. If General Gage
means to make war on that town, let him do it. Is there anything to
say on the matter, gentlemen?

FRANKLIN: Mr. Hancock.

HANCOCK: Mr. Franklin.

FRANKLIN: I say that the thirteen colonies should unite in order to
fight Great Britain.

HENRY: Mr. Hancock.

HANCOCK: Mr. Henry.

HENRY: I agree with Mr. Benjamin Franklin. I wish to repeat a
statement I made once before. The distinctions between Virginians,
Pennsylvanians, New Yorkers and New Englanders are no more. I am not
a Virginian but an American. (Applause).

RICHARD HENRY LEE: Mr. Hancock.

HANCOCK: Mr. Lee.

LEE: I make a motion that the thirteen colonies unite in order to
fight and that we declare ourselves free and independent of Great
Britain.

MEMBER OF HOUSE: We must show reasons for separating from our Mother
Country.

ROBERT LIVINGSTON: We must show great men like Pitt and Burke why
we want to separate from England.

MEMBER OF CONGRESS: I make a motion that a committee of men be
appointed to draw up a Declaration of Independence.

R. H. LEE: I second that motion.

SPEAKER: It has been moved and seconded that a committee of men be
appointed to draw up a declaration of independence. All those in favor
say Aye! Contrary minded No!

Aye! Aye!

SPEAKER: I appoint Thomas