Quote#Freedom
Suspicion is a virtue as long as its object is the public good, and…
Quote byPatrick Henry · 1736–1799
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: Speech on the Federal Constitution, Virginia Ratifying Convention (5 June 1788).
English (original)
Suspicion is a virtue as long as its object is the public good, and as long as it stays within proper bounds. … Guard with jealous attention the public liberty. Suspect every one who approaches that jewel.
— Patrick Henry
More from Patrick Henry
It is not a little Surprising that Christianity, whose chief excellence consists of softening the human heart, in cherishing and improving its finer Feelings, should encourage a Practice so totally repugnant to the first Impression of …
I shall honour the Quakers for their noble Effort to abolish Slavery. It is equally calculated to promote moral & political Good.
Caesar 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.
A King, by disallowing Acts of this salutary nature, from being the father of his people, degenerated into a Tyrant and forfeits all rights to his subjects' obedience.
The distinctions between Virginians, Pennsylvanians, New Yorkers and New Englanders are no more. I am not a Virginian, but an American.
I will not, I cannot justify it.