RESISTANCE IN ARMS--FOREWORD I The discussion of freedom leads inevitably to the discussion of an appeal to arms.

If proving the truth and justice of a people's claim were sufficient there would be little tyranny in the world, but a tyrannical power is deaf to the appeal of truth--it cannot be moved by argument, and must be met by force.

The discussion of the ethics of revolt is, then, inevitable.
II The ubiquitous pseudo-practical man, petulant and critical, will at once arise: "What is the use of discussing arms in Ireland?
If anyone wanted to fight it would be impossible, and no one wants to fight.

What prevents ye going out to begin ?" Such peevish criticism is anything but practical, and one may ignore it; but it suggests the many who would earnestly wish to settle our long war with a swift, conclusive fight, yet who feel it no longer practical.

Keeping to the practical issue, we must bear in mind a few things.