I believe that in one of Paul Harvey's "The Rest of the Story" books, he
says that Mr. Henry's wife was quite mad and that he kept her chained in the
house so that she would not hurt herself. I'll have to see if I can find the
book again. If true it would give new meaning to the phrase"........ 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!"
Probably not true, but an interesting take never-the -less.
Dana
-----Original Message-----
From: Rika and Kevin [SMTP:kevrik@shaka.com]
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2002 3:08 PM
To: sinclair@quarterman.org
Subject: Re: Patrick Henry
In Bill Bryson's wonderful "Made in America- An Informal History of
the
English Language in America", he says Henry may never have uttered
the
famous phrase. One surviving eyewitness wrote Henry did make some
intemperate remarks, but apologized if "the heat of passion might
have led
him to have said something more than he intended" and professed
undying
loyalty to the King. His ringing challenge may have been invented by
an
overzealous biographer.
Jefferson once wrote of Henry, " When he had spoken in opposition to
my
opinion, had produced a great effect, and I myself had been
delighted and
moved, I have asked myself when it had ceased, "What the Devil has
he said?"
and could never answer the enquiry." (found on page 32.)
Take care, Kevin
sinclair@quarterman.org
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