Page 54 - JM Book 9/2020

paper . . . an impressive piece of writing. You have done everything we asked.” He replaced his bifocals. “The preamble is magnificent.” He continued to read:
“We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their creator with inherent and inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; that to secure these rights governments are instituted among men deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.”
He looked at Jefferson again. “This is a powerful statement. I believe it will win the hearts and minds of everyone who reads or hears it.”
Jefferson nodded his head and said, “Thank you, Benjamin.”
Like Adams, Franklin suggested that a few corrections be made. Jefferson agreed to accept each one. Using his quill pen, Franklin carefully crossed out the original text and entered his changes.
44