A petition for Lounge libertarium. For PhotoHokieNC: Executive Summary: We don\'t need no stinkin\' prezeedent! Body: No man thinks more highly than I do of the Lounge, as well as abilities, of the very worthy posters. But different men often see the same subject in different lights; and, therefore, I hope that it will not be thought disrespectful to Florida Hokie and vthokieq, if, entertaining as I do opinions of a character very opposite to theirs, I shall speak forth my sentiments freely and without reserve. This is no time for ceremony. The question before the Lounge is one of awful moment to this board. For my own part I consider it as nothing less than a question of freedom or tyranny; and in proportion to the magnitude of the subject ought to be the freedom of the debate. It is only in this way that we can hope to arrive at truth, and fulfill the great responsibility which we hold to God and our country. Should I keep back my opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offense, I should consider myself as guilty of treason towards the Lounge, and of an act of disloyalty towards the majesty of heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings. Florida Hokie, it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren, till she transforms us into beasts. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty Are we disposed to be of the number of those who, having eyes, see not, and having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth -- to know the worst and to provide for it. I have but one lamp by which my feet are guided; and that is the lamp of experience. I know of no way of judging of the future but by the past. And judging by the past, I wish to know what there has been in the conduct of the board hosts for the last ten years, to justify those hopes with which gentlemen have been pleased to solace themselves and the Lounge No, sir, she has none. They are meant for us; they can be meant for no other. They are sent over to bind and rivet upon us those chains which TSL has been so long forging. And what have we to oppose to them Shall we try argument Sir, we have been trying that for the last ten years. Have we anything new to offer on the subject Nothing. The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave. Besides, sir, we have no election. If we were base enough to desire it, it is now too late to retire from the contest. There is no retreat but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged! Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Virginia! The war is inevitable -- and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come! It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, "Peace! Peace!" -- but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle What is it that gentlemen wish What would they have Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death!

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