Documentary History of the State of New York, Vol. III
The Assembly, conscious to themselves, of liaving trampled on the liberties ot the people, and fearing their just resentments on such an event, are equally careful to preserve their seats, expecting that if they can do it at this critical juncture, as it is imagined the grand controversy will be settled this winter, they will serve for seven years ; in which time they hope the people will forget the present injuries done to them. To secure these several objects, the De Lancy family, like true politicians, although they were to all appearance at mortal odds with M'" Golden, and represented him in all companies as an enemy to his country, yet a coalition is now formed in order to secure to them the sovereign lordship of this colony. The effect of which has given birth to the abominable vote, by which the liberties of the people are betrayed. In short, they have brought matters to such a pass, that all the checks resulting from the form of our happy constitution are destroyed. The Assembly might as well invite the council to save the trouble of formalities, to take their seats in the house of Assembly, and place the Lieut. Governor in the Speaker's chair, and then there would be no wat of time in going from house to house, and his honour would have the pleasure to see how zealous his former enemies are in promoting his interest to serve themselves. Is this a state to be rested in, when our all is at a stake 1 No, my countrymen, rouse ! Imitate the noble example of the friends of liberty in England ; wlio, rather than be enslaved, contend for their right with k -- g, lords and commons. And will you suffer your liberties to be torn from you, by your representatives ?