"Something is wanting, and something must be done, or we shall be involved in all the horror of failure, and civil war without a prospect of its termination"

This quote by Henry Knox is a warning of the repercussions of inaction. He is suggesting that if something is refrained from doing, the nation will remain in risk of failing and dealing with a civil war with no end in sight. He is emphasizing the importance of taking action to avoid such a catastrophe from taking place. He is likewise highlighting the severity of the scenario, as failure and civil war are two of the most devastating results possible. Knox is urging the country to act prior to it is too late, as the repercussions of inaction might be catastrophic. He is emphasizing the requirement for decisive action in order to prevent the scaries of failure and civil war. His words act as a tip of the significance of doing something about it in order to avoid catastrophe and ensure the nation's success.