Page 99 - JM Book 9/2020

a big grin. At a few minutes past two o’clock Hancock proudly announced: “Fellow delegates, twelve colonies have agreed to the written Declaration of Independence; New York has abstained. I am proud to announce that the Declaration of Independence by the representatives of the United States of America has been approved.”
The room became quiet again. Many of the delegates were beginning to feel the impact of their action. In the eyes of British officials, they were all traitors to the crown. They wondered what this might mean to their families and to themselves. Would harm or death be in their future or their family’s future? They had opened a new door for America; their only option was to continue through that new door.
“We passed it!” exclaimed Sam Adams. His was the first voice heard. “We are free and soon the whole world will know. HUZZAH!” he shouted.
“It is done,” John Adams quietly said as he stared ahead.
Other voices were now being heard.
Jefferson felt good about what had just happened. He was disappointed
that so much of his writing had been changed or omitted, but he was proud of the role he played.
“Declaring our independence is one thing,” he said as he faced his friends, “but convincing King George and the
“It is done,” John Adams quietly said as he stared ahead.
Parliament is another matter. We still have to win our freedom; we cannot just proclaim it with a document. It is not going to be an easy task, although I have great faith in our people. I am afraid the
struggle is going to be long and painful.”
“We have already come a long way,” responded Franklin. “And I know we
will win the final victory.”
“Yes, Benjamin, we will succeed,” John said. “Our new Declaration of
Independence will help us win support and friends at home and abroad. This is a great day for America. It will be remembered for years to come with a great anniversary celebration.”
“You have done a great service for our country, Thomas,” Franklin said
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