He had never before heard of such a thing.

If this practice was to be reversed, let the decision stand upon record, and let it appear how entirely the freedom of speech was suppressed in this House.

If the reading of a paper was to be suppressed in his person, so help him God, he would only consent to it as a matter of record.
Mr.Adams finished the petition.

The petitioners "respectfully announce their intention to present the same petition yearly before this honorable body, that it might at least be a memorial in the holy cause of human freedom that they had done what they could." These words were read amidst tumultuous cries for "order," from every part of the House.

The petition was finally received, and laid upon the table.
Other scenes of a still more exciting character soon occurred.
On the 7th of February, 1837, after Mr.Adams had offered some two hundred or more abolition petitions, he came to a halt; and, without yielding the floor, employed himself in packing up his budget.