The other group, which Henry joined on a few occasions, organized demonstrations against officials who had custody of stamped paper, attempting to intimidate them against using the documents for the collection of the tax. Although there was news of riots and acts of violence against determined British officials in some of the colonies, most of those in Norfolk soon pledged not to distribute the stamps if the crowds around their homes and offices would disperse. Sophie was eager to join in the demonstrations, but both Henry and Mr. Knox objected that this was an improper role for a woman.

The activities of the Sons of Liberty were well known to the public, but Henry pleased Mr. Knox by informing him in advance about most of their plans. As a result, Henry received financial contributions that he was able to share with the Sons of Liberty to cover their expenses for posters and brochures.

The Sunday-afternoon conversations at the Knox home continued as usual and covered an increasingly broad range of subjects. With Henry’s developing interest in political affairs, he looked forward to these sessions, and the older man was well practiced in expounding his rigid opinions and priorities. Although normally opinionated himself, Henry was able to admit his ignorance about many subjects, and both he and Sophie asked one question after another without hesitation. One afternoon Henry decided to explore a very basic question, which he was sure every educated person must understand.

“Mr. Knox, what is the difference between people who live in England and those who live over here? How can we have such conflicting ideas if we share the same history, speak the same language, and are loyal to the same royal family?”

“Henry, there is a natural difference between those who have stayed at home in England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales and their kinfolk who decided to leave home and move here to America. Each group believes itself to be superior. Colonists think that those still in Europe lack initiative, are not courageous enough to depart on an unpredictable adventure, or don’t have the foresight to take advantage of new opportunities. They seem to be docile, willing to accept encroachments on their political or religious freedoms, and to accommodate with little question the changing policies of their government. On the other hand, we have come to find freedom, to worship in various ways, to begin new lives, to challenge what is in effect an unknown continent, and to suffer hardship if necessary to achieve these goals. Does this describe the attitude of most of the people you know?”

Sophie replied, “That’s certainly the way I see the situation. How can the folks back in Britain disagree with this?”