The House voted, by 114 to 47, to allow Mr. Adams to proceed.
In continuing his speech, Mr. Adams said, that even admitting the object of the petitioners is abolition, as has been alleged, they had the right to petition for that too; for every individual in the country had a right to be an abolitionist. The great men of the Revolution were abolitionists, and if any man denies it, I will prove it.
Mr. Wise.—I deny it.
The Speaker said this was out of order.
Mr. Adams.—I feel obliged to the gentleman from Virginia for giving me the invitation, and I will now prove what I say.
The Speaker said this did not form any part of the question before the
House.
Mr. Adams.—George Washington, in articulo mortis, by his last will and testament, before God, his Creator, emancipated his slaves.
Mr. Wise.—Because he had no children.
The Speaker again interposed, and said the gentleman could not go into that question. It was entirely out of order.
Mr. Adams.—I did but accept the invitation of the gentleman from Virginia. I do not wish to go further. I simply take the position that George Washington was an abolitionist in the most extensive sense of the term; and I defy any man in this House to the discussion, and to prove to the contrary if he can.