Page 76 - JM Book 9/2020

to speak. “Gentlemen, I will say once again, that I believe it is too soon for the colonies to declare independence. We have been told that peace commissioners are on their way to America. We should wait to hear from them before we take any action that might hinder reconciliation with our Mother Country.” He paused and looked at the notes he took from his coat pocket. “I also believe we are not ready or properly equipped to govern ourselves. We simply do not have the experience or maturity to provide an effective government for our growing country. In addition, the colonies need to establish closer ties with each other before we can even consider
independence. This Congress is a first step, but more should be done. Lastly, it is imperative that assistance from foreign governments should be secured before the action you advocate is taken.
“I stand for liberty,” began Adams, “and I know most of
you stand with me. . . .”
“I appeal to you as Englishmen.
Let us not act in haste. Please remember that we are a member of the greatest empire on earth.” Dickinson replaced the notes in his pocket and sat down.
The chamber was quiet. Members looked over at John Adams. He waited before he stood.
Adams had listened to Dickinson’s words and had watched him move around the room. He admired Dickinson the man, but could not understand his intense loyalty to a government that had abused its American subjects for so long.
“I stand for liberty,” began Adams, “and I know most of you stand with me. The people throughout these colonies also stand for liberty. They want what we want . . . independence from a government that mistreats its subjects. The time is ripe for the American colonies to claim our independence.”
He reminded them of the many abuses and injustices that had been imposed on the colonies. He pointed out that they could not expect to receive military or financial help from foreign governments until they were totally independent from England. “Without complete independence from Great Britain, no government will come to our assistance. The unity that Mr. Dickinson spoke
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