(Click on George Washington's picture to read excerpt from his Prayer Journal).

"Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor..."

"Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it:
except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh [but] in vain."

- Psalm 127:1

The Massachusetts Body of Liberties, 1641

The Charter Of Privileges, William Penn, 1701

Order for Thanksgiving to Almighty God, July 24, 1742

A Manifesto and Address from HEAVEN, By the Guardian Angel of AMERICA [1766]

II. The Rights of the Colonists as Christians.
 
These may be best understood by reading and carefully studying the institutes of the great Law Giver and Head of the Christian Church, which are to be found clearly written and promulgated in the New Testament.
 
[420] By the act of the British Parliament, commonly called the Toleration Act, every subject in England, except Papists, &c., was restored to, and re-established in, his natural right to worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience. And, by the charter of this Province, it is granted, ordained, and established (that is, declared as an original right) that there shall be liberty of conscience allowed in the worship of God to all Christians, except Papists, inhabiting, or which shall inhabit or be resident within, such Province or Territory. Magna Charta itself is in substance but a constrained declaration or proclamation and promulgation in the name of the King, Lords, and Commons, of the sense the latter had of their original, inherent, indefeasible natural rights, as also those of free citizens equally perdurable with the other. That great author, that great jurist, and even that court writer, Mr. Justice Blackstone, holds that this recognition was justly obtained of King John, sword in hand. And peradventure it must be one day, sword in hand, again rescued and preserved from total destruction and oblivion.

- Samuel Adams and Benjamin Franklin, Nov. 20, 1772 The Report of the Committee of Correspondence to the Boston Town Meeting, (A.K.A.; 'The Rights of the Colonists').

"deem it highly necessary that the said first Day of June be set apart by the Members of this House as a Day of Fasting, Humiliation, and Prayer"

- By the House of Burgesses, May 24, 1774

Journals of the Continental Congress, 
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 1774, 
9 o'clock a. m.

Agreeable to the resolve of yesterday, the meeting was opened with prayers by the Revd. Mr. Duché.

Voted, That the thanks of the Congress be given to Mr. Duché, by Mr. Cushing and Mr. Ward, for performing divine Service, and for the excellent prayer, which he composed and deliver'd on the occasion.¹

[Note 1: 1 Duché attended in full pontificals, read several prayers in the established form, the collect for the day (Psalm XXXV), and then "struck out into an extemporary prayer, which filled the bosom of every man present. I must confess I never heard a better prayer, or one so well pronounced. * * * It has had an excellent effect upon everybody here." John Adams to his wife,--September, 1774. Joseph Reed thought the appointment and prayer a "masterly stroke of policy." Ward recorded "one of the most sublime, catholic, well-adapted prayers I ever heard."]

PSALM XXXV -

[[[A Psalm] of David.]] Plead [my cause], O LORD, with them that strive with me:
fight against them that fight against me.

Take hold of shield and buckler, and stand up for mine help.

Draw out also the spear, and stop [the way] against them that persecute me: say
unto my soul, I [am] thy salvation.

Let them be confounded and put to shame that seek after my soul: let them be
turned back and brought to confusion that devise my hurt.

Let them be as chaff before the wind: and let the angel of the LORD chase [them].

Let their way be dark and slippery: and let the angel of the LORD persecute them.

For without cause have they hid for me their net [in] a pit, [which] without cause
they have digged for my soul.

Let destruction come upon him at unawares; and let his net that he hath hid catch
himself: into that very destruction let him fall.

And my soul shall be joyful in the LORD: it shall rejoice in his salvation.

All my bones shall say, LORD, who [is] like unto thee, which deliverest the poor
from him that is too strong for him, yea, the poor and the needy from him that
spoileth him?

False witnesses did rise up; they laid to my charge [things] that I knew not.

They rewarded me evil for good [to] the spoiling of my soul.

But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing [was] sackcloth: I humbled my soul
with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom.

I behaved myself as though [he had been] my friend [or] brother: I bowed down
heavily, as one that mourneth [for his] mother.

But in mine adversity they rejoiced, and gathered themselves together: [yea], the
abjects gathered themselves together against me, and I knew [it] not; they did tear
[me], and ceased not:

With hypocritical mockers in feasts, they gnashed upon me with their teeth.

Lord, how long wilt thou look on? rescue my soul from their destructions, my darling
from the lions.

I will give thee thanks in the great congregation: I will praise thee among much
people.

Let not them that are mine enemies wrongfully rejoice over me: [neither] let them
wink with the eye that hate me without a cause.

For they speak not peace: but they devise deceitful matters against [them that are]
quiet in the land.

Yea, they opened their mouth wide against me, [and] said, Aha, aha, our eye hath seen
[it].

[This] thou hast seen, O LORD: keep not silence: O Lord, be not far from me.

Stir up thyself, and awake to my judgment, [even] unto my cause, my God and my Lord.

Judge me, O LORD my God, according to thy righteousness; and let them not rejoice over
me.

Let them not say in their hearts, Ah, so would we have it: let them not say, We have
swallowed him up.

Let them be ashamed and brought to confusion together that rejoice at mine hurt: let
them be clothed with shame and dishonour that magnify [themselves] against me.

Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say
continually, Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his
servant.

And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness [and] of thy praise all the day long.

Jacob Duché's First Prayer in Congress

[September 7, 1774](1)
O! Lord, our heavenly father,(2) King of Kings and Lord of lords: who dost from thy throne behold all the dwellers upon earth and reignest with power supreme & uncontrouled(3) over all kingdoms, empires and governments, look down in mercy,(4) we beseech thee, upon these our(5) American states who have fled to thee from the rod of the oppressor and thrown themselves upon thy gracious protection, desiring henceforth to be(6) dependent only on thee. To thee they have appealed for the righteousness of their Cause; to Thee do they look up,(7) for that countenance & support which Thou alone canst give.
Take them, therefore, Heavenly Father, under thy nurturing care: give them wisdom in council, valour in the field. Defeat the malicious designs of our cruel adversaries. Convince them of the unrighteousness of their cause. And if they persist(8) in their sanguinary purposes, O! let the voice of thy(9) unerring justice sounding in their hearts constrain them to drop the weapons of war from their enerved(10) hands in the day of battle.
Be thou present, O God of Wisdom and direct the counsels(11) of this honourable Assembly. Enable them to settle things upon the best and surest foundation, that the scene of blood may be speedily closed; that(12) harmony and peace may effectually be restored, and truth and justice, religion and piety prevail and flourish amongst thy people. Preserve the health of their bodies and the vigour of their minds; shower down upon them and the millions they represent(13) such temporal blessings as Thou seest expedient for them in this world, and crown them with everlasting glory in the world to come.
All this we ask in the name and through the merits of Jesus Christ thy son, Our Saviour, Amen.

MS (MdHi: Journals of Congress [Philadelphia: R. Aitken, 1787], J10.A15.V1). "Appendix" in the hand of Charles Thomson.
1 For the selection of the Reverend Jacob Duché to open Congress this day with a prayer and the congressional comment occasionedby his riveting performance, see these Letters, 1:31--;35, 45, 55,

Duché actually delivered not a single prayer but two---;a prepared one, which he read, followed by a much longer extemporaneous prayer, which led John Adams to effuse that he had "never heard a better Prayer or one so well pronounced," and Silas Deane to declare that "it was worth riding One Hundred Mile to hear" (ibid., pp. 34, 74). These glowing assessments were aimed primarily at the impromptu prayer rather than his prepared text, which is printed here.

**********

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 1

Silas Deane to Elizabeth Deane

[September 7, 1774] Wednesday Morning.
An express arrived from N York confirming the Acct. of a rupture at Boston. All is in Confussion. I can not say, that all Faces, gather paleness, but they all gather indignation, & every Tongue pronounces Revenge. The Bells Toll muffled & the people run as in a Case of extremity they know not where, nor why. The Congress met and opened with a Prayer, made by the Revd. Mr. Deshay which it was worth riding One Hundred Mile to hear. He read the Lessons of the Day which were accidentally extremely Applicable, & then prayed without Book about Ten Minutes so pertinently, with such Fervency, purity, & sublimity of Stile, & sentiment, and with such an apparent Sensibility of the Scenes, & Business before Us, that even Quakers shed Tears. The Thanks of the Congress were most Unanimously returned him, by a Select honorable Committee. We are just now formed, into Committees, and Our Business, is laid Out, which, as We mean to go to the Bottom, nothing but Genl. Gage & a greater Force than he has at Boston, will prevent Our sitting some time.

I will now give You the Character of the Delegates beginning at South Carolina, as they are the Souther most. Mr. Lynch is a Gentleman about Sixty, and could You see him, I need say nothing more. He has much the appearance of Mr. Jas. Mumford deceased, dresses as plain, or plainer, is of immense fortune & has his Family with him. He wears the Manufacture of this Country, is plain, Sensible, above Ceremony, and carries with him more Force in his very appearance, than most powdered Folks, in their Conversation. He wears his hair strait, his Cloaths in the plainest order, and is highly esteemed. With him Are Two Brothers Mr. Rutledge senr., & junr. of independent Fortune, ingenious, but impetuous in the Cause they are en gaged in; the Eldest I judge, of my Age, his Lady, & a Son of Jesse's age, is with him. They lodge at the Next Door. The Younger Brother, is a tolerable speaker, equally zealous. He married Mr. Gadsdens Daughter, who as I told you lodges with Us. Mr. Gadsden, leaves all N England Sons of Liberty, farr behind, for he is for taking up his Firelock, & marching direct to Boston, nay he affirmed this Morning, that were his Wife, and all his Children in Boston, & they were there to perish, by the sword, it would not alter his Sentiment or proceeding, for American Liberty, by which You may judge of the Man, when I add that he is one of the most regularly, religious Men I ever met with. Col. Middleton is the only remaining Member for that province whom I have not Characterized. He appears very modest, has said but little hitherto, is I judge Fifty Years of Age, and of a very slender Thin habit, but is in high esteem with his Acquaintance. Virginia comes Next but that must be the Business of a Future hour.
This Evening I spent at Mr. Roberto's, a Gentleman of Fortune, who married Mr. Bostwicks Daughter.(1) She is a most amiable Woman, & often reminded Me of the late Mrs. Adam Babcock, whom she greatly resembled, both Hee, & she are Too zealous Presbyterians for Me which is all the Fault I find with them. They give Mr. Murray a very indifferent Character, but not as to Morals.(2)

RC (CtHi) . A continuation of Deane to Elizabeth Deane, September 6,1774.
1 Daniel Roberdeau (1727-95) married Rev. David Bostwick's daughter Mary in 1761. Roberdeau was a successful Philadelphia merchant, active in local political affairs, and a member of the Continental Congress, 1777-79. DAB.
2 For the continuation of this letter, see Deane to Elizabeth Deane, September 8, 1774.

"...10. That the late act of parliament for establishing the Roman Catholic religion and the French laws in that extensive country, now called Canada, is dangerous in an extreme degree to the Protestant religion and to the civil rights and liberties of all America; and, therefore, as men and Protestant Christians, we are indispensubly obliged to take all proper measures for our security...."

Journals of the Continental Congress,
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 1774.

...To the inhabitants of the colonies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, Connecticut, New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, the counties of New Castle, Kent and Sussex, on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina and South-Carolina:

Friends and fellow countrymen,

We, the Delegates appointed by the good people of the above Colonies to meet at Philadelphia in September last, for the purposes mentioned by our respective Constituents, have in pursuance of the trust reposed in us, assembled, and taken into our most serious consideration the important matters recommended to the Congress. Our resolutions thereupon will be herewith communicated to you. But as the situation of public affairs grows daily more and more alarming; and as it may be more satisfactory to you to be informed by us in a collective body, than in any other manner, of those sentiments that have been approved, upon a full and free discussion by the Representatives of so great a part of America, we esteem ourselves obliged to add this Address to these Resolutions.

In every case of opposition by a people to their rulers, or of one state to another, duty to Almighty God, the creator of all, requires that a true and impartial judgment be formed of the measures leading to such opposition; and of the causes by which it has been provoked, or can in any degree be justified: That neither affection on the one hand, nor resentment on the other, being permitted to give a wrong bias to reason, it may be enabled to take a dispassionate view of all circumstances, and settle the public conduct on the solid foundations of wisdom and justice....

...Motives thus cogent, arising from the emergency of your unhappy condition, must excite your utmost diligence and zeal, to give all possible strength and energy to the pacific measures calculated for your relief: But we think ourselves bound in duty to observe to you that the schemes agitated against these colonies have been so conducted, as to render it prudent, that you should extend your views to the most mournful events, and be in all respects prepared for every contingency. Above all things we earnestly intreat you, with devotion of spirit, penitence of heart, and amendment of life, to humble your-selves, and implore the favour of almighty God: and we fervently beseech his divine goodness, to take you into his gracious protection.... 

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 1
John Adams to Abigail Adams

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 1

New Hampshire Delegates to Matthew Thornton

Phila

20th June 1775

Your favor of the 24th May is now before us,(1) in answer to which can only say we easily Conceive the "painful sensation" that every honest man must feel when he sees the unatural Conflict between Great Britain and these Colonies rising to such a highth. But when we Consider it, not of our own Seeking, drove by the Sons of Tyrany and Oppression, to the Sad Alternative of being made Slaves, or appealing to the Sword in Defence of our Just liberties, cannot but think we shall stand Justified, before God and man, in vigorously seizing the latter.
We are much pleased with the proceedings of New Hampshire, shewing their Attachment to the Common Cause by raising so large a Number of men for the Defence of America. We are very Sensable of the inability of our province to Support them, and the Necessity of a paper currency.
We are at liberty to inform you that the Committee of the whole Congress have Agreed to Report a Continental Currency; which no doubt will be Emited immediately and forwarded for the payment of the Troops.(2)
The Congress have appointed General Washington to the Command of the American forces, who will set out for the Camp to morrow or next day; have also agreed upon a Continental Army. The other proceedings of Congress are not yet to be made publick, unless what appears in the prints. It is impossiable to conceive of a greater unanimity in the Colonies, than that which at present subsists, one and all being determined to defend our Rights to the last. May the great Author of all things Bless and Assist us, is the most ardent prayer of,

your Obedient servants,

John Sullivan
John Langdon

P.S. Enclosed is an order for a general fast.

RC (Nh-Ar) . Written by Sullivan and signed by Sullivan and Langdon.

1 Apparently the letter printed under the date May 23, 1775, in Am. Archives, 4th ser. 2:695-96. where a second letter of the same date also appears. Matthew Thornton (1714-1803), Londonderry, N. H., physician, was president of the New Hampshire Provincial Congress and chairman of the committee of safety. DAB. 2 Formal action by Congress on this measure came on June 22. JCC, 2:103.

Journals of the Continental Congress,

FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 1775

The consideration of the articles of war being resumed, Congress agreed to the same:

Rules and Regulations...

"...Resolved, That the following Rules and Orders be attended to, and observed by such forces as are or may hereafter be raised for the purposes aforesaid....

"...Art. II. It is earnestly recommended to all officers and soldiers, diligently to attend Divine Service; and all officers and soldiers who shall behave indecently or irreverently at any place of Divine Worship, shall, if commissioned officers, be brought before a court-martial. there to be publicly and severely reprimanded by the President; if non-commissioned officers or soldiers, every person so offending, shall, for his first offence, forfeit One Sixth of a Dollar, to be deducted out of his next pay; for the second offence, he shall not only forfeit a like sum, but be confined for twenty-four hours, and for every like offence, shall suffer and pay in like manner; which money so forfeited, shall be applied to the use of the sick soldiers of the troop or company to which the offender belongs....

"...Art. LIII. All members sitting in courts-martial shall be sworn by the President of said courts, which President shall himself be sworn by the officer in said court next in rank:--The oath to be administered previous to their proceeding to the trial of any offender, in form following, viz.

"You A. B. swear that you will well and truly try, and impartially determine the cause of the prisoner now to be tried, according to the rules for regulating the Continental army. So help you God."

Art. LIV. All persons called to give evidence, in any case, before a court-martial, who shall refuse to give evidence, shall be punished for such refusal at the discretion of such court-martial:--The oath to be administered in the following form, viz.
 
"You swear the evidence you shall give in the case now in hearing, shall be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. So help you God."

"...Ordered, That Mr. [Silas] Deane, Mr. [Thomas] Cushing and Mr. [Joseph] Hewes, be a Committee to examine the rules and articles of war agreed to by the Congress, and get them printed as soon as possible...."

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 1

John Langdon to Matthew Thornton

Philadelphia

3d July 1775

...The general voice of the people here is, that our Cause is Just and Righteous and that God is on our side as has most evidently appeared.
The low, base, and wanton Cruelty of the Ministerial Sons of Tyranny, in burning the once pleasant and populous Town of Charlestown, Beggers all Description.(2) This does not look like the fight of those who have so long been Friends, and would hope to be Friends again, but Rather of a Most Cruel enemy, but we shall not wonder when we Reflect, that it is the infernal hand of Tyranny which always has and ever will Delluge that part of the World (which it lays hold of) in Blood....

Sir

Philadelphia

July 22nd 1775

"...The publick Fast was observed here by all Societys of Christians with great Decency & Solemnity even much beyond what the Sabboths are generally observed here. We hope it may have a happy effect thro the Continent & that Almighty God may hear the united Supplications of his People. We have the pleasure to inform you that the Colony [of] Georgia have at length fully adopted the Measures of the late Congress & have Chosen Delegates from all their Parishes to Attend this, Mr Hall was here only from the parish of St Johns. They have lately taken at South Carolina about fourteen Thousand Wt Powder which was going into Georgia for the use of the Ministry. We are yet Uncertain when we shall adjourn or where the General Urges our Moving nearer Boston which I dare say will have great Weight, but the Gentlemen from some of the Sothern Colonies seem Very averse to [it].(1) We hope to be on our way to New England in about a fortnight.

We are with great respect Your Honors most Obedient Humble Servants Elipha Dyer Silas Dean"

- Connecticut Delegates to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., Letters of Delegates to Congress: Vol. 1

The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.

George Washington, November 18, 1775, General Orders

"...The Honorable the Legislature of this Colony having thought fit to set apart Thursday the 23d of November Instant, as a day of public thanksgiving "to offer up our praises, and prayers to Almighty God, the Source and Benevolent Bestower of all good; That he would be pleased graciously to continue, to smile upon our Endeavours, to restore peace, preserve our Rights, and Privileges, to the latest posterity; prosper the American Arms, preserve and strengthen the Harmony of the United Colonies, and avert the Calamities of a civil war." The General therefore commands that day to be observed with all the Solemnity directed by the Legislative Proclamation, and all Officers, Soldiers and others, are hereby directed, with the most unfeigned Devotion, to obey the same...."

Journals of the Continental Congress,
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1775

"...If any shall be heard to swear, curse, or blaspheme the name of God, the Commander is strictly enjoined to punish them for every offence, by causing them to wear a wooden collar, or some other shameful badge of distinction, for so long time as he shall judge proper. If he be a commissioned officer, he shall forfeit one shilling for each offence, and a warrant or inferior officer six pence. He who is guilty of drunkenness, if a seaman, shall be put in irons until he is sober, but if an officer, he shall forfeit two days' pay...."

Journals of the Continental Congress,
TUESDAY, JANUARY 2, 1776

"...Resolved, That it be recommended to them, to continue mindful that humanity ought to distinguish the brave, that cruelty should find no admission among a free people, and to take care that no page in the annals of America be stained by a recital of any action which justice or Christianity may condemn, and to rest assured that whenever retaliation may be necessary or tend to their security, this Congress will undertake the disagreeable task...."

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume: 3

Joseph Hewes to Samuel Johnston

Dear Sir

Philadelphia

6th Jany 1776.

I wrote to you two days ago by two Ministers of the Gospel who are sent by order of Congress to the Western parts of North Carolina, where some of the inhabitants we are told are pursuing measures hostile to the friends of America; they are to endeavour to prevail on those people by reason and Argument to become Active in support of those rights and privileges which belong to them in common with the rest of the Inhabitants. I hope their well meant endeavours will be usefull to our Province....

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume: 3

Samuel Adams to John Sullivan

"My dear sir

Philade

Jany 12 1776

Your very acceptable Letter of the 3d Inst duly came to hand. I thank you heartily for the favor and shall be much obligd to you if you will write to me as often as your Leisure will admit of it.
 
It gave me pain to be informd by you, that by an unlucky Circumstance you were prevented from executing a plan, the Success of which would have afforded you Laurels, and probably in its immediate Effects turnd the present Crisis in favor of our Country. We are indebted to you for your laudable Endeavor;

Another Tryal will, I hope, crown your utmost Wish.

I have seen the Speech which is falsly & shamefully called most gracious. It breathes the most malevolent Spirit, wantonly proposes Measures calculated to distress Mankind, and determines my opinion of the Author of it as a Man of a wicked Heart. What a pity it is, that Men are become so degenerate and servile, as to bestow Epithets which can be appropriated to the supreme Being alone, upon Speeches & actions which will hereafter be read & spoken of by every Man who shall profess to have a spark of Virtue & Honor, with the utmost Contempt and Detestation. What have we to expect from Britain, but Chains & Slavery? I hope we shall act the part which the great Law of Nature points out. It is high time that we should assume that Character, which I am sorry to find the Capital of your Colony has publickly and expressly disavowd. It is my most fervent prayer to Almighty God, that he would direct and prosper the Councils of America, inspire her Armies with true Courage, shield them in every Instance of Danger and lead them on to Victory & Tryumph.
 
I am yr affectionate Friend,

S.A."

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume: 3
(John Dickinson) for a Speech in Congress

[January 24? 1776]

"...3. On Lands then the supposed property of England. A Question has been made What Right European Nations took by Discovery by their Subjects or Persons navigating under their Authority & the Extention of that Right into the Country. That is one Question not necessary t9 be discussed on the present Occasion. I incline to think no European Nation took any Right whatever by such Discoveries. If the Objects held up by the European Nations of spreading the Light of the Gospel among the ignorant Natives had been the Principle of those Discoveries & the consequent possession-& if that grand Object could not [have] been attempted without the European Nations obtaining a property in part of the Country-there might more be said in Favor of their Right. But that was not the Cause. It was only a Patina. Ambition & Love of Gain were the Causes-& so far from [instructing?] in Truth or improving in Morality, We have only super[added?] European [bias?] on [Indian?] Errors...."

Journals of the Continental Congress,
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1776

“...Resolved, That a friendly commerce between the people of the United Colonies and the Indians, and the propagation of the gospel, and the cultivation of the civil arts among the latter, may produce many and inestimable advantages to both; and that the commissioners for Indian affairs be desired to consider of proper places in their respective departments for the residence of ministers and school masters, and report the same to the Congress:

“That the commissioners for Indian affairs in the northern department be desired to enquire of Mr. Jacob Fowler, of the Montauke tribe of Indians, on Long Island, and Mr. Joseph Johnson, of the Mohegan, upon what terms they will reside among the Six Nations of Indians, and instruct them in the Christian religion....”

A PROCLAMATION FOR A GENERAL FAST, "that the Gospel of CHRIST may have free Course and be glorified", Feb. 22, 1776

Washington, George, 1732-1799: The writings of George Washington from the original manuscript sources: Volume 8, 1745-1799. [The Modern English Collection at the University of Virginia Electronic Text Center.]

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 25

Secret Committee Contract 

Wednesday February the 6th

“...The Commissioners and Chiefs being met and the usual ceremonies gone thro the following talk was delivered.
Brothers of the Six Nations and all you our other Brothers who are in Peace and freindship with us and alliance with them.
In the name of the Great Congress we bid You welcome. We are glad to see you all. We take you not only by the hand but in our arms and we say to you "Come Brothers let us sit down by this fire and talk together." Let us tell our Minds and open our hearts to one another and help one another that so the Great God who made us all may be pleased with us all and send a good wind to make the good old fire burn and blaze up to the Skies....

The Above talk was delivered at Easton in Pennsylvania by sundry Commissioners appointed by the United States to hold a treaty with a number of Indian chiefs in Behalf of the Six nations and their Allies.
February the 6 1777 and in the fourth year of the Continental Union.
Attested Thos Payne Sec.
A true Copy GB.

Journals of the Continental Congress,
FRIDAY, APRIL 18, 1777

"...The committee, in the course of their enquiry, learned, that sometimes the common soldiers expressed sympathy with the prisoners, and the foreigners more than the English. But, this was seldom or never the case with the officers; nor have they been able to hear of any charitable assistance given them by the inhabitants who remained in, or resorted to the city of New York; which neglect, if universal, they believe was never known to happen in any similar case in a Christian country.

"...The committee found it to be the general opinion of the people in the neighbourhood of Princeton and Trenton, that the enemy, the day before the battle of Princeton, had determined to give no quarter.--They did not, however, obtain any clear proof, that there were any general orders for that purpose; but the treatment of several particular persons at and since that time, has been of the most shocking kind, and gives too much countenance to the supposition. Officers wounded and disabled, some of them of the first rank, were barbarously mangled or put to death. A minister of the gospel in Trenton, who neither was nor had been in arms, was massacred in cold blood, though humbly supplicating for mercy...."

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 7,

Friends and fellow Citizens

[ante May 29, 1777](1)

"...On the other Hand America has Supplicated with the most humble Voice and manner of Complaint, have prayed with most Submissive humility for Peace, Liberty and Safety, but in vain, and at length when forced to take Arms for self-preservation She raised them with reluctance against Britain even in Defence of her own Bosom, and at length unwillingly seperated altho she plainly saw that any further Connection must involve her in Circumstances worse than utter Perdition.

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 7
John Adams to Abigail Adams

Monday, June 2. 1777

"...Revenge, in ancient Days, you will see it through the whole Roman History, was esteemed a generous, and an heroic Passion. Nothing was too good for a Friend or too bad for an Enemy. Hatred and Malice, without Limits, against an Enemy, was indulged, was justified, and no Cruelty was thought unwarrantable.

"Our Saviour taught the Immorality of Revenge, and the moral Duty of forgiving Injuries, and even the Duty of loving Enemies. Nothing can shew the amiable, the moral, and divine Excellency of these Christian Doctrines in a stronger Point of Light, than the Characters and Conduct of Marius and Sylla, Cazsar, Pompey, Anthony and Augustus, among innumerable others. Retaliation, we must practice, in some Instances, in order to make our barbarous Foes respect in some degree the Rights of Humanity. But this will never be done without the most palpable Necessity.

"The Apprehension of Retaliation alone, will restrain them from Cruelties which would disgrace Savages.

"To omit it then would be cruelty to ourselves, our Officers and Men...." 

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 7

Philadelphia Printers

[ca. July 7, 1777](1)

The Congress desire to have a bible printed under their care & by their encouragement, & request you to inform them
1. How many thousand pounds of Types would be sufficient to set, or Compose a whole bible of the common sort; and what they would cost ?
2. In how long time such a bible could be set & Printed ?
3. What it could be sold for, as well bound, as our common bibles?
4. Whether Paper fit for the purpose, & a sufficient quantity of it could be had in this country, so as to carry on the work with expedition?
5. How Long the Types when set would continue good, and fit for this purpose of casting off a new edition from time to time?
6. What would be expected from the Congress to carry on this work, that it might be well done & sold nearly as cheap as common school bibles ?
An answer to these queries is requested against Friday at 6 o clock in the afternoon-to be given to the Committee of the Congress at the state house in this City.

RC (DNA: PCC, item 46). In an unidentified hand. Addressed: "To Mr. Henry Miller Printer." The same letter was also sent to Robert Aitken, Thomas Bradford, John Dunlap, and William Sellers. Another, nearly identical copy of the committee's letter, in the same unidentified hand but addressed "To Mr. Sellers Printer " is in ibid., fol. 175.
1 Three Philadelphia Presbyterian clergymen-Francis Alison, John Ewing, and William Marshall-this day submitted a petition to Congress praying that "unless timely care be used to prevent it we shall not have bibles for our Schools, & families, & for the publick Worship of God in our Churches." "We therefore," they continued, "think it our Duty to our Country & to the Churches of Christ to lay this design before this honourable house, humbly requesting that under your care, & by your encouragement, a Copy of the holy Bible may be printed, so as to be sold nearly as cheap as the Common Bibles, formerly imported from Britain & Ireland, were sold." See JCC, 8:536, and PCC, item 42, 1:35.
The petition was referred to a committee consisting of John Adams, Daniel Roberdeau, and Jonathan Bayard Smith, who promptly submitted the queries contained in this document to several Philadelphia printers to determine the feasibility of the petitioners' request. For the printers' responses, one of which is dated July 10, 1777, see PCC, item 46, 1: 155-73.
The committee eventually reported against the petitioners' recommendation because of the expense and difficulties involved in procuring the proper types and paper for such an edition of the Bible, and Congress instead adopted the committee's recommendation to "order the Committee of Commerce to import 20,000 Bibles from Holland, Scotland, or elsewhere." JCC, 8: 733-35. As this decision was not reached until September 11, the day of the battle of Brandywine and only one week before Congress was forced to flee from Philadelphia no action was taken to implement this order.
Another document related to the committee's work in the summer of 1777 bearing the heading "Regulations proposed for the Printing of a Bible for common Use under the Direction & by the Authority of Congress," is also located in PCC. See item 46, 1: 163-64. It consists of 15 articles pertaining to the production of an American edition of the Bible to be carried out under the "Inspection" of Congress and essentially endorses the proposals embodied in the petitioners' memorial. Indeed it may have been drafted as the committee's original report, although the report finally read in Congress on September 11 rejected the practicality of executing such an American edition and recommended instead importing 20,000 Bibles. It has been printed in William H. Gaines, Jr., "The Continental Congress Considers the Publication of a Bible 1777," Studies in Bibliography 3 (1950-51): 275-76, where it has been misidentified as the petition of the Presbyterian ministers.
It was not until 1782 that the first English language American edition of the Old and New Testaments finally appeared. For information on the circumstances that led to the publication of Robert Aitken's edition of the Bible, which appeared with an official congressional endorsement of September 12, 1782, see Margaret T. Hills, "The First American Bible, as Published by Robert Aitken," Bible Society Record 113 (January 1968): 2-5; and JCC, 19:91, 23:572-74. 

A SERMON, Preached on the Eve of the Battle of Brandywine, Sept. 10, 1777, BY THE REV. JOAB TROUT.

Journals of the Continental Congress,

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 1777

...The committee appointed to consider the memorial of the Rev. Dr. Allison and others, report, "That they have conferred fully with the printers, &c. in this city,and are of opinion, that the proper types for printing the Bible are not to be had in this country, and that the paper cannot be procured, but with such difficulties and subject to such casualties, as render any dependence on it altogether improper: that to import types for the purpose of setting up an entire edition of the bible, and to strike off 30,000 copies, with paper, binding, &c. will cost £10,272 10, which must be advanced by Congress, to be reimbursed by the sale of the books:

"That, your committee are of opinion, considerable difficulties will attend the procuring the types and paper; that, afterwards, the risque of importing them will considerably enhance the cost, and that the calculations are subject to such uncertainty in the present state of affairs, that Congress cannot much rely on them: that the use of the Bible is so universal, and its importance so great, that your committee refer the above to the consideration of Congress, and if Congress shall not think it expedient to order the importation of types and paper, your committee recommend that Congress will order the Committee of Commerce to import 20,000 Bibles from Holland, Scotland, or elsewhere, into the different ports of the states in the Union:"¹

[Note 1: 1 This report, in the writing of Daniel Roberdeau, is in thePapers of the Continental Congress, No. 28, folio 203.]

Whereupon, the Congress was moved, to order the Committee of Commerce to import twenty thousand copies of the Bible;

The question being put, the house was divided:

So it was resolved in the affirmative.

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 8
John Adams to Abigail Adams

My best Friend York Town Octr. 25. 1777
This Town is a small one, not larger than Plymouth. There are in it, two German Churches, the one Lutheran, the other Calvinistical. The Congregations are pretty numerous, and their Attendance upon public Worship is decent. It is remarkable that the Germans, wherever they are found, are carefull to maintain the public Worship, which is more than can be said of the other Denominations of Christians, this Way. There is one Church here erected by the joint Contributions of Episcopalians and Presbyterians, but the Minister, who is a Missionary, is confined for Toryism, so that they have had for a long Time no publick Worship. (1) Congress have appointed two Chaplains, Mr. White and Mr. Duffield, the former of whom an Episcopalian is arrived and opens Congress with Prayers every Day. The latter is expected every Hour. Mr. Duche I am sorry to inform you has turned out an Apostate and a Traytor. Poor Man! I pitty his Weakness, and detest his Wickedness.

As to News, We are yet in a painful Suspense about Affairs at the Northward, but from Philadelphia, We have Accounts that are very pleasing. Commodore Hazelwood, with his Gallies, and Lt. Coll. Smith in the Garrison of Fort Mifflin, have behaved in a manner the most gallant and glorious. They have defended the River, and the Fort with a Firmness and Perseverance, which does Honour to human Nature.
If the News from the Northward is true, Mr. Howe will scarcely venture upon Winter Quarters in Philadelphia.
We are waiting, for News, from Rhode Island.
I am wearied with the Life I lead, and long for the Joys of my Family. God grant I may enjoy it, in Peace. Peace is my dear Delight. War has no Charms for me. If I live much longer in Banishment I shall scarcely know my own Children.
Tell my little ones, that if they will be very good, Pappa will come home.

RC (MHi). Adams, Family Correspondence (Butterfield), 2:359-60.
1 Suspension points in MS.

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 8

William Williams to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr

Octo 26 [1777]. Sab. Eveng. Brown is detained by the President to wait on Him, as He is now in earnest returning home. This day Week We received Copy of the Albany Comtees Letter, giving an Acco of Burgoyne & whole Armys surrendering Prisoners of War, it gaind intire Credit, to the great Joy of Congress & the Friends of their Country, but scarce a Circumstance of Confirmation, from [that time?] till this, so that it was almost [. . .] believed, nor has Genl Gates [. . .](1) but we hear a Col Wilkinson [. . .] with Dispatches from Him & the News seems confirmed past Contradiction. You have had it without doubt more perfectly. What infinite reason have We to bless & extol the name of the Lord of Hosts the God of Armys, for this great reverse of our Affairs in that quarter, since proud Burgoyne was able to say (at the shameful evacuation of Ty. &c) Veni, Vidi, Vici, which has been overruled for great Good, tho We then tho't with good old Jacob, all these things are against Us. O, may the Mercies & Judgments of the Almighty, accomplish the great Design for which They are sent, our Repentance & Reformation.
I doubt not Congress will appoint a Day of Thansgiving on this great Occasion, thro out the Continent, & may God give Us Heart to celebrate it in a right & acceptable manner.
Our Forts & Vessels of [War] have in a surprizing & unexpected [manner] defended the Passage of the Delawar [. .] (2) most engaged Efforts of the Enemy with [. . .]ly Fleet, their existence at the City depends upon their comandg the River, but their Attempts had hitherto faild & two of their Ships lost. The Cannonade mentioned before was real & ended happily as You will see by the inclosed Copys. Our officers there have deserved great Honor, & blessed be God, Who has inspired them with Courage & given Them so much Success.
Congress is so thin of Members that they (3)

RC (NHi). A continuation of Williams to Trumbull, October 23, 1777.
1 Three or four words missing.
2 Approximately three words missing.
3 Remainder of RC missing.

Journals of the Continental Congress, "to set apart a day of thanksgiving. . . . through the merits of Jesus Christ...", Nov. 1, 1777

**********

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 8,

Henry Laurens to the States,

Sir
 
York Town
 
1st November 1777,

The Arms of the United States of America having been blessed in the present Campaign with remarkable Success, Congress have Resolved to recommend that one day, Thursday the 18th December next be Set apart to be observed by all Inhabitants throughout these States for a General thanksgiving to Almighty God. And I have it in command to transmit to you the inclosed extract from the minutes of Congress for that purpose.(1)
 
Your Excellency or Honour will be pleased to take the necessary measures for carrying the Resolve into effect in the State in which you preside. You will likewise find inclosed a Certified Copy of a minute which will Shew your Excellency the Authority under which I have the honour of addressing you.(2)
 
I am with great Esteem & regard, Sir, Your Excellencys most Obt. L Servt.

Henry Laurens

LB (DNA: PCC, item 13). Addressed: "Circular, by Express Messengers."
1 See JCC, 9:854 55
2 This day Laurens was elected John Hancock's successor as president of Congress. JCC,
9:854.

Journals of the Continental Congress,

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1777

...Congress took into consideration the report of the committee to whom were referred the letter from the Hon. Stephen Hopkins, Esqr., and the proceedings of the committees from New Hampshire, Massachusetts bay, Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, Connecticut and New York, and for other purposes mentioned in a resolution of Congress of the 10th of September last, and the same being read and debated by paragraphs, was agreed to, as follows:

Pursued by the injustice and the vengeance of the King and Parliament Great Britain, these United States have been compelled to engage in a bloody and expensive war. Amidst much great every distress that they have yet experienced may befal them, it will be their consolation to appeal to Heaven for the rectitude of their measures; since they have her influence they have had recourse to arms, not from ambition or the lust of power, but to resist actual invasion and boundless rapine, and to secure to themselves and to their Posterity the common rights and privileges of human nature: the blessings of freedom and safety that they have had recourse to arms.

Aided by venal foreigners and domestic traitors, the war has been prosecuted by our implacable foes with their utmost force and vigour, and aggravated by more than savage barbarity.

Congress, nevertheless, supported by the virtue, patriotism and good faith of their constituents have hitherto raised all the necessary supplies on the publick credit confidence of their fellow citizens, without burthening them with taxes or pecuniary contributions, have hitherto raised all the necessary supplies on the public faith For these purposes.

To maintain our fleets and armies, large sums have been emitted in continental bills of credit, and the same expedient method has been adopted embraced by the respective states to answer the demands of their internal governments their internal wants. By these exertions expedients, our paper currency, notwithstanding the settled solid basis on which it is founded, is multiplied beyond the rules of good policy. No truth being more evident, than that where the quantity of money of any quality or denomination exceeds what is useful as a medium of commerce, its comparative value must be proportionably reduced. To this cause, conspiring with the arts and practices of our open and secret enemies, the shameful avidity of too many of our professed friends, and the scarcity of foreign commodities are we to ascribe the depreciation of our currency: the consequences to be apprehended are equally obvious and alarming.¹ They tend to the depravity of morals,--decay of public virtue,--a precarious supply for the war,--debasement of the public faith,--injustice to individuals, and the destruction of the honour, safety, and independence of the United States. Loudly, therefore, are we called upon to provide a seasonable and effectual remedy against those dangerous evils.

[Note 1: 1 The original report read as follows:
"If the Depravity of Morals, if the Extinction of publick Virtue, if the Supplies for carrying on the War, if the Interests of Individuals, if the preservation of the publick Faith and the Honour, Safety and Independance of the United States, are Objects, which are worthy of our Concern, we are loudly, &c."]

Blessed be God, they are not unavoidable irremediable.² The means of repressing them are still in our own power. Let the virtuous patriots of America reflect on the inestimable value of the prize for which we are contending. Hitherto spared from taxes, let them now with a cheerful heart contribute according to their circumstances. Let the sordid wretches, who shrink from danger and personal service, and meanly prefer their own inglorious² ease and emolument to the good of their country, be despised, and their ill-gotten wealth be abhorred as a curse disgrace. Let the extortioner and oppressor be

[Note 22: 2 This word was inserted by Henry Laurens.]

punished; the secret traitor dragged to light; the necessities of the army attended to and relieved; and the quantity of money in circulation be reduced; and we shall soon see the public credit fully established, and with the continuance of the divine favour, a glorious termination of the present arduous conflict...

The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.

George Washington, General Orders

Oppression: A Poem Or, New England's Lamentation, "Behold the Invitation of God Almighty's Son", [Boston, 1777]

Journals of the Continental Congress,
SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 1778

"The committee appointed to prepare a recommendation to the several states, for setting apart a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer, brought in the same; which was read and agreed to as follows:

Whereas, Almighty God, in the righteous dispensation of his providence, hath permitted the continuation of a cruel and desolating war in our land; and it being at all times the duty of a people to acknowledge God in all his ways, and more especially to humble themselves before him when evident tokens of his displeasure are manifested; to acknowledge his righteous government; confess, and forsake their evil ways; and implore his mercy:

Resolved, That it be recommended to the United States of America to set apart Wednesday, the 22d day of April next, to be observed as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer; that at one time, and with one voice, the inhabitants may acknowledge the righteous dispensations of Divine Providence, and confess their iniquities and transgressions, for which the land mourneth; that they may implore the mercy and forgiveness of God; and beseech him that vice, prophaneness, extortion, and every evil, may be done away; and that we may be a reformed and happy people; that they may unite in humble and earnest supplication, that it may please Almighty God, to guard and defend us against our enemies, and give vigour and success to our military operations by sea and land; that it may please him to bless the civil rulers and people, strengthen and perpetuate our union, and, in his own good time, establish us in the peaceable enjoyment of our rights and liberties; that it may please him to bless our schools and seminaries of learning, and make them nurseries of true piety, virtue and useful knowledge; that it may please him to cause the earth to yield its increase, and to crown the year with his goodness...."

The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.

George Washington, General Orders

Head Quarters, V. Forge, Tuesday, May 5, 1778....

...It having pleased the Almighty ruler of the Universe propitiously to defend the Cause of the United American-States and finally by raising us up a powerful Friend among the Princes of the Earth to establish our liberty and Independence up lasting foundations, it becomes us to set apart a day for gratefully acknowledging the divine Goodness and celebrating the important Event which we owe to his benign Interposition....

AN ADDRESS OF THE CONGRESS TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, May 8th, 1778

American Manifesto, Continental Congress, 

Oct. 30, 1778

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 10

Samuel Adams to Peter Thacher

My Dear Sir (1) Philad Augt 11-78

....Nothing can equal the barefaced Falshood of the Quakers & Tories in this City, unless perhaps their Folly, in giving out that M. Gerard does not come in the Character of a publick Minister, but only to obtain Pay for the Stores we have receivd from that Country. These Quakers are in general a sly artful People, not altogether destitute, as I conceive, of worldly Views in their religious Profession. They carefully educate their Children in their own contracted Opinions and Manners, and I dare say they have in their Heads as perfect a System of Uniformity of Worship in their Way, and are busily employd about spiritual Domination as ever Laud himself was, but having upon professed Principle renouncd the Use of the carnal Weapon, they cannot onsistently practice the too common Method made Use of in former times, of dragooning Men into sound Beliefe. One might submit to their own inward Feelings, whether they do not now & then secretly wish for fire from Heaven in support of their Cause, in order to bring them upon a footing with those whose Consciences dictate the kindling fires on Earth for the pious Purpose of convincing Gainsayers, and who keep the Sword in their Hands to enforce it. He who in the Spirit of the Apostle professes to wish Peace to all those who love the Lord Jesus Christ in Sincerity, must discover an unmortified Pride & a Want of Christian Charity to destroy the peace of others who profess to have that sincere Affection to the Common Master, because they differ from him in Matters of mere opinion-But the Post is just going. I must therefore conclude with assuring you that I am affectionately, Yours,

FC (NN). In the hand of Samuel Adams.

1 Peter Thacher (1752-1802), a Malden, Mass., minister, who had delivered several fiery patriotic sermons on public occasions and later served as a delegate to the 1780 Massachusetts constitutional convention. "Memoirs of Rev. Dr. Thacher," Massachusetts Historical Society, Collections, 1st ser. vol. 8 (1802): 277-84.

2 Thacher's "last" letter to Adams has not been found; only his May 19 letter to Adams is in the
Samuel Adams Papers, NN.

3 At this point Adams wrote and then crossed out the following sentences: "Under an Apprehension that our connection with France might lead us to partake in her wars, which might be grounded on Views of Ambition and Conquest, I took occasion to hint to him that the sole object of America was independence. He frankly said that whenever Great Britain should acknowledge our Independence, there would be an End of Dispute between her and us, and it would not be the Inclination as it was not the Interest of France to continue the War."
The "apprehension" Adams voiced here was also shared by Richard Henry Lee, who preserved among his papers the following notes on Gerard's response to this issue. Lee doubtless wrote these at about this same time, after availing himself of an opportunity for questioning the French Minister on possible consequences of the Franco-American treaties. The notes appear on the verso of a sheet on which Lee had outlined the thirteen articles of the treaty of alliance.
"That the Treaty of Alliance has not effect until War or rupture, which are made Synonimous. Therefore no Guarantee, nor obligation to carry on the war. The former more desirable than the latter ineligible. Because the Object of War clearly pointed out in 2d. 3d. & 8 Articles, which being obtained, the war in reason ceases. "All words of Monsr. Gerard."
Lee Family Papers, ViU.

Journals of the Continental Congress,

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1778

...Congress resumed the consideration of the recommendation to the states for setting apart a day of thanksgiving, which being amended, is as follows:

It having pleased Almighty God, through the course of the present year, to bestow great and manifold mercies on the people of these United States; and it being the indispensable duty of all men gratefully to acknowledge their obligations to Him for benefits received:

Resolved, That it be, and hereby is recommended to the legislative or executive authority of each of the said states, to appoint Wednesday, the 30th day of December next, to be observed as a day of public thanksgiving and praise, that all the people may, with united hearts, on that day, express a just sense of his unmerited favours; particularly in that it hath pleased him, by his overruling providence, to support us in a just and necessary war, for the defence of our rights and liberties, by affording us seasonable supplies for our armies, by disposing the heart of a powerful monarch to enter into alliance with us, and aid our cause; by defeating the councils and evil designs of our enemies, and giving us victory over their troops; and, by the continuance of that union among these states, which, by his blessing, will be their future strength and glory.

And it is further recommended, that, together with devout thanksgiving, may be joined a penitent confession of our sins, and humble supplication for pardon, through the merits of our Saviour; so that, under the smiles of Heaven, our public councils may be directed, our arms by land and sea prospered, our liberty and independence secured, our schools and seminaries of learning flourish, our trade be revived, our husbandry and manufactures encreased, and the hearts of all impressed with undissembled piety, with benevolence and zeal for the public
good.

And it is also recommended, that recreations unsuitable to the purpose of such a solemnity may be omitted on that day.

Done in Congress, this 17th day of November, 1778, and in the third year of the independence of the United States of America.(1)

[Note 1: 1 This proclamation, in the writing of Samuel Adams, is in thePapers of the Continental Congress, No. 24, folio 445. It is endorsed as having passed November 3.]

A Proclamation, "with decency and devotion becoming good christians, acknowledge their obligations to Almighty God for the benefits they have received", Dec. 7, 1778

Gouverneur Morris to the Pennsylvania Packet, "and since the Deity chose one Judas among twelve disciples", Feb., 1779

Journals of the Continental Congress,
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 1779

"...Plan of a Treaty of Commerce to be entered into between their High Mightinesses the States of the Seven United Provinces of Holland, and the thirteen United States of North America, to wit, New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delawares Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia...."

"...On these Principles the parties above mentioned have after mature deliberation, agreed to the following Articles...."

"...Form of the passport to be given to ships or vessels conformable to the
30th Article of this treaty"

Journals of the Continental Congress,

SATURDAY, MARCH 20, 1779

[Image of Published Copy]

The committee appointed to prepare a recommendation to the several states to set apart a day of fasting humiliation and prayer, brought in a draught, which was taken into consideration, and agreed to as follows:

Whereas, in just punishment of our manifold transgressions, it hath pleased the Supreme Disposer of all events to visit these United States with a destructive calamitous war, through which His divine Providence hath, hitherto, in a wonderful manner, conducted us, so that we might acknowledge that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong: and whereas, there is but too much Reason to fear that notwithstanding the chastisements received and benefits bestowed, too few have been sufficiently awakened to a sense of their guilt, or warmed our Bosoms with gratitude, or taught to amend their lives and turn from their sins, that so He might turn from His wrath. And whereas, from a consciousness of what we have merited at His hands, and an apprehension that the malevolence of our disappointed enemies, like the incredulity of Pharaoh, may be used as the scourge of Omnipotence to vindicate his slighted Majesty, there is reason to fear that he may permit much of our land to become the prey of the spoiler, and the Blood of the innocent be poured out that our borders to be ravaged, and our habitations destroyed:

Resolved, That it be recommended to the several states to appoint the first Thursday in May next, to be a day of fasting, Thanksgiving humiliation and prayer to Almighty God, that he will be pleased to avert those impending calamities which we have but too well deserved: that he will grant us his grace to repent of our sins, and amend our lives, according to his holy word: that he will continue that wonderful protection which hath led us through the paths of danger and distress: that he will be a husband to the widow and a father to the fatherless children, who weep over the barbarities of a savage enemy: that he will grant us patience in suffering, and fortitude in adversity: that he will inspire us with humility and moderation, and gratitude in prosperous circumstances: that he will give wisdom to our councils, firmness to our resolutions, and victory to our arms That he will have Mercy on our Foes, and graciously forgive them, and turn their Hearts from Enmity to Love.

That he will bless the labours of the husbandman, and pour forth abundance, so that we may enjoy the fruits of the earth in due season.

[That he will cause union, harmony, and mutual confidence to prevail throughout these states: that he will bestow on our great ally all those blessings which may enable him to be gloriously instrumental in protecting the rights of mankind, and promoting the happiness of his subjects and advancing the Peace and Liberty of Nations. That he will give to both Parties to this Alliance, Grace to perform with Honor and Fidelity their National Engagements].(1)
That he will bountifully continue his paternal care to the commander in chief, and the officers and soldiers of the United States: that he will grant the blessings of peace to all contending nations, freedom to those who are in bondage, and comfort to the afflicted: that he will diffuse useful knowledge, extend the influence of true religion, and give us that peace of mind, which the world cannot give: that he will be our shield in the day of battle, our comforter in the hour of death, and our kind parent and merciful judge through time and through eternity.

[Note 1: 1 Words in brackets are in writing of John Jay.]

Done in Congress, this 20th day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-nine, and in the third year of our independence.

John Jay, President.

Attest, Charles Thomson, Secretary.2

[Note 2: 2 This proclamation, in the writing of Gouverneur Morris, is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 24, folio 437.]

SPEECH TO THE DELAWARE CHIEFS

Head Quarters, Middle Brook, May 12, 1779.

....Brothers: I am glad you have brought three of the Children of your principal Chief