Johann de Kalb

“So, there lies the brave de Kalb. The generous stranger, who came from a distant land to fight our battles and to water with his blood the tree of liberty. Would to God he had lived to share its fruits!”

“De Kalb died, as he had lived, the unconquered friend of liberty.”

“Save the Baron de Kalb! Save the Baron de Kalb!”

“I thank you sir for your generous sympathy, but I die the death I always prayed for, the death of a soldier fighting for the rights of man.”

“Well, sir. Perhaps a few hours will show who are the brave.”

“It is with equal regret, my dear sirs, that I part with you. Because I feel a presentiment that we part to meet no more.”

“No! No! Gentlemen, no emotion for me. But, those of congratulation. I am happy. To die is the irreversible decree of him who made us. Then what joy to be able to meet death without dismay. This, thank God, is my case. The happiness of man is my wish, that happiness I deem inconsistent with slavery, and to avert so great an evil from an innocent people, I will gladly meet the British tomorrow, at any odds whatever.”