 The risk was huge. By signing the document, the 56 men risked high treason against the King of England. In essence, they signed their death warrants, because that was the penalty. In addition to death, all of the offender's earthly goods would be confiscated by the state. Family could own no property, and this dictate extended to future heirs. In the words of Shakespeare, for the sins of your fathers, you, though guiltless, must suffer. They took a risk, fought hard, and we have our freedom today because of it.