We have to make ourselves. Is this the way? This way which Mr.
Surendranath Banerjea is now recommending, is this the way to make a
nation? It is a critical period in our political history: there was
no crisis in the history of India from the earliest times down to the
present which was more critical than this and at this critical time
for a leader of our people to say 'give us what little you think wise,
we, the people of this country will accept it.'--Is it politics? Is it
wisdom? Or is it madness? Surely an explanation is due to the people.
Well, gentlemen, take this to your heart to-day and make a solemn vow
that if you are fit for self-government, you have got to demonstrate
that. No words ever produced or created rights. Enactments are
nothing. They simply recognise rights which exist. The rights belong
to you if you only realise the position--they are not yours, if you
hesitate (cheers). If you hesitate, you are lost. If you are afraid to
realise that you have rights you are not fit for self-government. The
rights of nationality were never granted to a nation of cowards (hear,
hear).
I thank you again, gentlemen, for listening to me patiently. I had many
things more to say and if I find another opportunity I shall again
address you (cheers).