Constitutional Convention, 1787:
In the beginning of the contest with Britain, when we were
sensible of danger, we had daily prayers in this room for
Divine protection. Our prayers, Sir, were heard, and they
were graciously answered. All of us who were engaged in the
struggle must have observed frequent instances of a
superintending Providence in our favor.… and have we
not forgotten this powerful Friend? Or do we imagine we no
longer need His assistance? I have lived, Sir, a long time,
and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of
this truth: “that God governs in the affairs of man.” And if
a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without His notice, is
it probable that an empire can rise without His aid? …
I believe farther that this [new government
under the Constitution] is likely to be well administered
for a course of years, and can only end in Despotism, as
other forms have done before it, when the people shall
become so corrupted as to need despotic Government, being
incapable of any other. |
