The Tree That Saved Connecticut Part 4

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