(Rising.) I asked Tecumseh to confer with me, Not in war's hue, but for the ends of peace. Our own intent--witness our presence here, Unarmed save those few muskets and our swords. How comes it, then, that he descends on us With this o'erbearing and untimely strength? Tecumseh's virtues are the theme of all; Wisdom and courage, frankness and good faith-- To speak of these things is to think of him! Yet, as one theft makes men suspect the thief-- Be all his life else spent in honesty-- So does one breach of faithfulness in man Wound all his after deeds. There is a pause In some men's goodness like the barren time Of those sweet trees which yield each second year, Wherein what seems a niggardness in nature; Is but good husbandry for future gifts. But this tree bears, and bears most treacherous fruit! Here is a gross infringement of all laws That shelter men in council, where should sit No disproportioned force save that of reason-- Our strong dependence still, and argument, Of better consequence than that of arms, If great Tecumseh should give ear to it.

Harrison Monologue from Tecumseh : a Drama

Rehearse Harrison's monologue