The Tree That Saved Connecticut - LightNovelsOnl.com
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Let us not submit! Let us appeal to the Privy Council! We have our rights under the charter.
ALL
Yes, yes! Let us not submit!
TREAT
It is useless, gentlemen. When we are ordered to submit, we must submit or be in rebellion.
WADSWORTH
When may we expect the order?
TREAT
I was informed this very morning that an officer of Governor Andros was on his way here to take over the government of the colony, and we might expect him this very day.
WADSWORTH
Then what can we do, sir?
TREAT
We can submit--indeed we must submit to the rule of Governor Andros, but, gentlemen, we must not relinquish our charter!
ALL
No, no! We must save our charter. [_etc._]
TREAT
But how can we save it? If I am ordered to give it up, what can I do? I have it here. It is in my possession. How can I hold it against an order to relinquish it?
WADSWORTH
Your Excellency, if it is not in your possession, you cannot give it up.
TREAT
But it is, Captain Wadsworth.
WADSWORTH
Then, sir, I move you that this a.s.sembly forthwith take it out of your possession and intrust it to a committee for safe-keeping.
TREAT
Yes, that is possible.
VOICE
Second!
TREAT
You have heard the proposal. Those favoring--
ALL
Aye!
TREAT
Opposed--it is a vote. Will someone propose the committee?
VOICE
Your Excellency, I propose Captain Wadsworth, Charles w.i.l.l.ys, and John Talcott.
TREAT
But Talcott is not here.
WADSWORTH
All the better, sir, since we cannot give up the charter except upon unanimous consent of the committee.
TREAT
A very good arrangement. Is there a second to the nomination for the Charter Committee?
VOICE
Second! [_loud knock_]
TREAT
Don't open until we have had the vote! All favoring--
ALL
Aye! [_knocking_]
BLIGH [_outside_]
Open, in the name of the King!
TREAT
