John A. Macdonald (1815 – 1891)
First Prime Minister of Canada.
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He hoped that Britain and Canada would have "a healthy and cordial alliance. Instead of looking upon us as a merely dependent colony, England will have in us a friendly nation, a subordinate but still a powerful people to stand by her in North America in peace or in war." - 1865
Let us be English or let us be French... but above all let us be Canadians.
Ain't I the old devil though?
I must have another $10,000. Will be the last time of calling. Do not fail me. Answer today.
I would be quite willing, personally, to leave that whole country a wilderness for the next half-century but I fear if Englishmen do not go there, Yankees will.
I say that there is a deliberate conspiracy, by force, by fraud, or by both, to force Canada into the American Union.
Yes, but the people would prefer John A. drunk to George Brown sober.
We must protect the rights of minorities, and the rich are always fewer in number than the poor.
The scheme as a whole has met with almost universal approval.
Anyone can support me when they think I'm right. What I want is someone that will support me when I am wrong.
As for myself, my course is clear. A British subject I was born — a British subject I will die. With my utmost effort, with my latest breath, will I oppose the ‘veiled treason’ which attempts by sordid means and mercenary proffers to lure our people from their allegiance.
I get sick ... not because of drink [but because] I am forced to listen to the ranting of my honourable opponent.
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