Live or die, sink or swim.—Peele: Edward I. (1584?).
[531:1] Mr. Webster says of Mr. Adams: "On the day of his death, hearing the noise of bells and cannon, he asked the occasion. On being reminded that it was 'Independent Day,' he replied, 'Independence forever.'"—Works, vol. i. p. 150. Bancroft: History of the United States, vol. vii. p. 65.
We shall be strong to run the race,
And climb the upper sky.
Watts: Spiritual Hymns, xxiv.
[531:3] He it was that first gave to the law the air of a science. He found it a skeleton, and clothed it with life, colour, and complexion; he embraced the cold statue, and by his touch it grew into youth, health, and beauty.—Barry Yelverton (Lord Avonmore): On Blackstone.
[531:4] See Scott, page [493].
[532:1] A national debt, if it is not excessive, will be to us a national blessing.—Alexander Hamilton.
[532:2] When the State of Pennsylvania held its convention to consider the Constitution of the United States, Judge Wilson said of the introductory clause, "We, the people, do ordain and establish," etc.: "It is not an unmeaning flourish. The expressions declare in a practical manner the principle of this Constitution. It is ordained and established by the people themselves." This was regarded as an authoritative exposition.—The Nation.