Quote#Homeland
The only principles of public conduct that are worthy of a gentleman…
Quote byJames Otis · 1725–1783
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: Argument Against the Writs of Assistance (1761).
English (original)
The only principles of public conduct that are worthy of a gentleman or a man are to sacrifice estate, ease, health, and applause, and even life, to the sacred calls of his country. These manly sentiments, in private life, make good citizens; in public life, the patriot and the hero.
— James Otis
More from James Otis
An act against the Constitution is void; an act against natural equity is void.
If we are not represented, we are slaves.
But the right to take ten pounds, implies the right to take a thousand; and what must be the wealth, that avarice, aided by power, cannot exhaust?
We are bold and vigorous, — and we call no man master.
ALL PRECEDENTS ARE UNDER THE CONTROUL OF THE PRINCIPLES OF THE LAW … No Acts of Parliament can establish such a writ [writ of assistance enabling British search of homes for no reason]: … it would be void, "AN ACT AGAINST THE CONSTITUTION …
Kingcraft and priestcraft have fell out so often, that 'tis a wonder this grand and ancient alliance is not broken off forever. Happy for mankind will it be when such a separation shall take place.