Address of Isaac Wilkins

Page v2:479

New-York, May 3, 1775.

MY COUNTRYMEN: Before I leap America, the land I love, and in which, is contained every thing that is valuable and dear to me — my wife, my children, my friends, and property; permit me to make a short and faithful declariation, which I am induced to do neither through fear, nor a consciousness of, having acted wrong. An honest man and a Christian hath nothing to apprehend from this world. God is my judge, and God is my witness, that all I have done, written, or said, in relation; to the present unnatural dispute between Great Britain and her Colonies, proceeded from an honest intention of serving my Country. Her welfare and prosperity were the objects towards which all my endeavours have been directed. They still are the sacred objects which I shall ever steadily and invariably keep in view. And when in England, all the influence that so inconsiderable a man as I am can have, shall be exerted in her behalf.

It has been my constant maxim through life to do my duty conscientiously, and to trust the issue of my actions to the Almighty. May that God in whose hands are all event' s, speedily restore peace and liberty to my unhappy Country. May Great Britain and America be soon united in the bands of everlasting amity, and when united may they continue a free, a virtuous, and happy Nation to the end of time.

I leave America, and every endearing connection, because I will not raise my hand against my Sovereign, nor will I draw my sword against my Country; when I can conscientiously draw it in her favour, my life shall be cheerfully devoted to her service.

ISAAC WILKINS.