This document presents excerpts from Robert Emmet's Speech from the Dock in 1803, delivered after the failure of the Irish Rebellion he led. Nolan introduces Emmet's speech as a primary source that cemented his legacy as a romantic figure in Irish history following his conviction for high treason. In his address, Emmet defends his character against accusations of being a French emissary, asserting his sole objective was complete Irish independence from Britain, not subservience to France. He declares his willingness to fight any French invasion and expresses a poignant desire for his epitaph to remain unwritten until Ireland achieves its rightful place among nations. The speech culminates with Emmet's acceptance of his impending death and a final plea for his memory to be left in silence until future generations can truly understand and vindicate his actions.

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