(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 Chiefs to be educated with us. I am sure Congress will open the Arms of love to them, and will look upon them as their own Children, and will have them educated accordingly. This is a great mark of your confidence and of your desire to preserve the friendship between the Two Nations to the end of time, and to become One people with your Brethen of the United States. My ears hear with pleasure the other matters you mention. Congress will be glad to hear them too. You do well to wish to learn our arts and ways of life, and above all, the religion of Jesus Christ. These will make you a greater and happier people than you are. Congress will do every thing they can to assist you in this wise intention; and to tie the knot of friendship and union so fast, that nothing shall ever be able to loose it.

Brothers: There are some matters about which [I do not open my Lips, because they belong to Congress, and not to us warriors; you are going to them, they will tell you all you wish to know.

Brothers: When you have seen all you want to see, I will then wish you a good Journey to Philadelphia. I hope you may find there every thing your hearts can wish, that when you return home you may be able to tell your Nation good things of us. And I pray God he may make your Nation wise and Strong, that they may always see their own] true interest and have courage to walk in the right path; and that they never may be deceived by lies to do any thing against the people of these States, who are their Brothers and ought always to be one people with them.

George Washington,

Commander in chief of all the Armies in the United States of America

Journals of the Continental Congress, "in the name of the Lord of Hosts," May 26, 1779

Journals of the Continental Congress,
SATURDAY, JULY 17, 1779

"...Resolved, That the following letter from the secretary of Congress be written to the admiral or other commanding officer of the fleets or ships of his Britannic Majesty, lying in the harbor of New York:

"Sir: I am directed by the Congress of the United States of America to inform you that they have received evidence that Gustavus Conyngham, a citizen of America, late commander of an armed vessel in the service of the said states, and taken on board a private armed cutter, hath been treated in a manner contrary to the dictates of humanity and the practice of Christian civilized nations. I am ordered in the name of Congress to demand that good and sufficient reasons be given for this conduct, or that the said Gustavus Conyngham be immediately released from his present rigorous and ignominious confinement...."

Journals of the Continental Congress,

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 1779

"...Let them remember that we are contending against a kingdom crumbling into pieces; a nation without public virtue; and a people sold to, and betrayed by, their own representatives; against a prince governed by his passions, and a ministry without confidence or wisdom; against armies half paid and generals half trusted; against a government equal only to plans of plunder, conflagration and murder; a government, by the most impious violations of the rights of religion, justice, humanity, and mankind, courting the vengeance of Heaven and revolting from the protection of Providence. Against the fury of these enemies you made successful resistance, when single, alone and friendless, in the days of weakness and infancy, before your hands had been taught to war or your fingers to fight. And can there be any reason to apprehend that the divine disposer of human events, after having separated us from the house of bondage, and led us safe through a sea of blood, towards the land of liberty and promise, will leave the work of our political redemption unfinished, and either permit us to perish in a wilderness of difficulties, or suffer us to be carried back in chains to that country of oppression, from whose tyranny he hath mercifully delivered us with a stretched out arm? ..."

"...By the unanimous order of Congress,

Journals of the Continental Congress,

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 1779

The committee appointed to prepare a recommendation to the several states, for setting apart the second Thursday in December next, as a day of general thanksgiving, brought in a draught, which was agreed to as follows:

Whereas it becomes us humbly 50, (to?), approach the throne of Almighty God, with gratitude and praise for the wonders which his goodness has wrought in conducting our fore-fathers to this western world; for his protection to them and to their posterity amid difficulties and dangers;

for raising us, their children, from deep distress to be numbered among the nations of the earth; and for arming the hands of just and mighty princes in our deliverance; and especially for that he hath been pleased to grant us the enjoyment of health, and so to order the revolving seasons, that the earth hath produced her increase in abundance, blessing the labors of the husbandmen, and spreading plenty through the land; that he hath prospered our arms and those of our ally; been a shield to our troops in the hour of danger, pointed their swords to victory and led them in triumph over the bulwarks of the foe; that he hath gone with those who went out into the wilderness against the savage tribes; that he hath stayed the hand of the spoiler, and turned back his meditated destruction; that he hath prospered our commerce, and given success to those who sought the enemy on the face of the deep; and above all, that he hath diffused the glorious light of the gospel, whereby, through the merits of our gracious Redeemer, we may become the heirs of his eternal glory: therefore,

Resolved, That it be recommended to the several states, to appoint Thursday, the 9th of December next, to be a day of public and solemn thanksgiving to Almighty God for his mercies, and of prayer for the continuance of his favor and protection to these United States; to beseech him that he would be graciously pleased to influence our public councils, and bless them with wisdom from on high, with unanimity, firmness, and success; that he would go forth with our hosts and crown our arms with victory; that he would grant to his church the plentiful effusions of divine grace, and pour out his holy spirit on all ministers of the gospel; that he would bless and prosper the means of education, and spread the light of christian knowledge through the remotest corners of the earth; that he would smile upon the labours of his people and cause the earth to bring forth her fruits in abundance; that we may with gratitude and gladness enjoy them; that he would take into his holy protection our illustrious ally, give him victory over his enemies, and render him signally great, as the father of his people and the protector of the rights of mankind; that he would graciously be pleased to turn the hearts of our enemies, and to dispense the blessings of peace to contending nations; that he would in mercy look down upon us, pardon our sins and receive us into his favor, and finally, that he would establish the independence of these United States upon the basis of religion and virtue, and support and protect them in the enjoyment of peace, liberty and safety. as long as the sun and moon shall
endure, until time shall be no more.

Done in Congress, the 20th day of October, one thousand seven hundred and seventy-nine, and in the 4th year of the independence of the United States of America.

Samuel Huntington, President.

Attest,
Charles Thomson, Secretary. (1)

[Note 1: 1 This proclamation was entered in the Journals by George Bend. In the writing of Jesse Root, it is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 24, folio 447.]

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

George Washington, General Orders

Head Quarters, Moore's House, Saturday, November 27, 1779.

...The Honorable the Congress has been pleased to pass the following proclamation.

“It having pleased the righteous Governor of the World, for the punishment of our manifold offences, to permit the sword of war still to harrass our country, it becomes us to endeavour, by humbling ourselves before him, and turning from every evil way, to avert his anger and obtain his favour and blessing: it is therefore hereby recommended to the several states,

“That Wednesday, the twenty sixth day of April next, be set apart and observed as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer, that we may, with one heart and one voice, implore the sovereign Lord of Heaven and Earth to remember mercy in his judgments; to make us sincerely penitent for our transgressions; to prepare us for deliverance, and to remove the evils with which he hath been pleased to visit us; to banish vice and irreligion from among us, and establish virtue and piety by his divine grace to revive and spread the influence of patriotism, and eradicate, that love of pleasure and of gain which renders us forgetful of our country and our God; to bless all public councils throughout the United States, giving them wisdom, firmness and unanimity, and directing them to the best measures for the public good; to bless the magistrates and people of every rank, and animate and unite the hearts of all to promote the interests of their country; to bless the public defence, inspiring all commanders and soldiers with magnanimity and perseverance, and giving vigor and success to the military operations by sea and land; to bless the illustrious Sovereign and the nation in alliance with these states, and all who interest themselves in the support of our rights and liberties; to make that alliance of perpetual and extensive usefulness to those immediately concerned, and mankind in general; to grant fruitful seasons, and to bless our industry, trade and manufactures; to bless all schools and seminaries of learning, and every means of instruction and education; to cause wars to cease, to the ends of the earth and to establish peace among the nations.

“And it is further recommended, that servile labour and recreations be forbidden on the said day.¹

[Note 1: 1 This report, in the writing of James Lovell, is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 24, folio 451.]

“Done in Congress &c.”

- Journals of the Continental Congress, March 11, 1780. [A Century of Lawmaking for a New Nation: U.S. Congressional Documents and Debates, 1774-1875]

Journals of the Continental Congress,

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 1780

"...Congress took into consideration the resolution reported for setting apart a day of thanksgiving and prayer, and agreed to the following draught:

Whereas(2) it hath pleased Almighty God, the Father of all mercies, amidst the vicissitudes and calamities of war, to bestow blessings on the people of these states, which call for their devout and thankful acknowledgments, more especially in the late remarkable interposition of his watchful providence, in rescuing the person of our Commander in Chief and the army from imminent dangers, at the moment when treason was ripened for execution; in prospering the labours of the husbandmen, and causing the earth to yield its increase in plentiful harvests;
and, above all, in continuing to us the enjoyment of the gospel of peace;

[Note 2: 2 From this point the entries are by Thomas Edison.]

It is therefore recommended to the several states to set apart Thursday, the seventh day [of December next, to be observed as a day of public thanksgiving and prayer; that all the people may assemble on that day to celebrate the praises of our Divine Benefactor; to confess our unworthiness of the least of his favours, and to offer our fervent supplications to the God of all grace; that it may please him to pardon our heinous transgressions and incline our hearts for the future to keep all his laws that it may please him still to afford us the blessing of health; to comfort and relieve our brethren who are any wise afflicted or distressed; to smile upon our husbandry and trade and establish the work of our hands; to direct our publick councils, and lead our forces, by land and sea, to victory; to take our illustrious ally under his special protection, and favor our joint councils and exertions for the establishment of speedy and permanent peace; to cherish all schools and seminaries of education, build up his churches in their most holy faith and to cause the knowledge of Christianity to spread over all the earth.

Done in Congress, the lath day of October, 1780, and in the fifth year of the independence of the United States of America.(1)

[Note 1: 1 This report is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 24, folio 455. It is in the writing of James Duane, except the portion in brackets, which is in the writing of Samuel Adams. From this point Charles Thomson resumes the entries.]

"It is the right as well as the duty of all men in society, publicly and at stated seasons, to worship the Supreme Being, the great Creator and Preserver of the universe. And no subject shall be hurt, molested, or restrained in his person, liberty, or estate, for worshipping God in the manner and season most agreeable to the dictates of his own conscience; or for his religion profession of sentiments; provided he doth not disturb the public peace, or obstruct others in their religious worship...."

- Massachusetts Bill of Rights, Part the First, 1780. [Documents of American History, Commager, ed., vol. 1 (107)]

Journals of the Continental Congress,
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 1781

"The Committee of the Week report,

"That the petition of Danl. Simon an Indian preacher Minister of the Gospel praying that the salary which he formerly received from England may be made good to him, and that he may be employed in publick service, be referred to a special Committee."

Journals of the Continental Congress,

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 1781

Resolved, That Congress will, at two o'clock this day, go in procession to the Dutch Lutheran church, and return thanks to Almighty God, for crowning the allied arms of the United States and France, with success, by the surrender of the whole British army under the command of the Earl of Cornwallis.
 

Journals of the Continental Congress,

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 1781

The committee, consisting of Mr. Witherspoon, Mr. Montgomery, Mr. Varnum, Mr. Sherman, appointed to prepare a recommendation for setting apart a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, reported the draught of a proclamation, which was agreed to as follows:

PROCLAMATION

Whereas, it hath pleased Almighty God, the supreme Disposer of all Events father of mercies, remarkably to assist and support the United States of America in their important struggle for liberty, against the long continued efforts of a powerful nation: it is the duty of all ranks to observe and thankfully acknowledge the interpositions of his Providence in their behalf. Through the whole of the contest, from its first rise to this time, the influence of divine Providence may be clearly perceived in many signal instances, of which we mention but a few.

In revealing the councils of our enemies, when the discoveries were seasonable and important, and the means seemingly inadequate or fortuitous; in preserving and even improving the union of the several states, on the breach of which our enemies placed their greatest dependence; in increasing the number, and adding to the zeal and attachment of the friends of Liberty; in granting remarkable deliverances, and blessing us with the most signal success, when affairs seemed to have the most discouraging appearance; in raising up for us a powerful and generous ally, in one of the first of the European powers; in confounding the councils of our enemies, and suffering them to pursue such measures as have most directly contributed to frustrate their own desires and expectations; above all, in making their extreme cruelty of their officers and soldiers to the inhabitants of these states, when in their power, and their savage devastation of property, the very means of cementing our union, and adding vigor to every effort in opposition to them.

And as we cannot help leading the good people of these states to a retrospect on the events which have taken place since the beginning of the war, so we beg recommend in a particular manner that they may observe and acknowledge to their observation, the goodness of God in the year now drawing to a conclusion: in which

A mutiny in the American Army was not only happily appeased but became in its issue a pleasing and undeniable proof of the unalterable attachment of the people in general to the cause of liberty since great and real grievances only made them tumultuously seek redress while the abhorred the thoughts of going over to the enemy, in which the Confederation of the United States has been completed by the accession of all without exception in which there have been so many instances of prowess and success in our armies; particularly in the southern states, where, notwithstanding the difficulties with which they had to struggle, they have recovered the whole
country which the enemy had overrun, leaving them only a post or two upon on or near the sea: in which we have been so powerfully and effectually assisted by our allies, while in all the conjunct operations the most perfect union and harmony has subsisted in the allied army: in which there has been so plentiful a harvest, and so great abundance of the fruits of the earth of every kind, as not only enables us easily to supply the wants of the army, but gives comfort and happiness to the whole people: and in which, after the success of our allies by sea, a General of the first Rank, with his whole army, has been captured by the allied forces under the direction of
our illustrious Commander in Chief.

It is therefore recommended to the several states to set apart the 13th day of December next, to be religiously observed as a Day of Thanksgiving and Prayer; that all the people may assemble on that day, with grateful hearts, to celebrate the praises of our gracious Benefactor; to confess our manifold sins; to offer up our most fervent supplications to the God of all grace, that it may please Him to pardon our offences, and incline our hearts for the future to keep all his laws; to comfort and relieve all our brethren who are in distress or captivity; to prosper our husbandmen, and give success to all engaged in lawful commerce; to impart wisdom and integrity to our counsellors, judgment and fortitude to our officers and soldiers; to protect and prosper our illustrious ally, and favor our united exertions for the speedy establishment of a safe, honorable and lasting peace; to bless all seminaries of learning; and cause the knowledge of God to cover the earth, as the waters cover the seas.(1)

[Note 1: 1 This report, in the writing of John Witherspoon, is in the Papers of the Continental Congress,
No. 24, folio 463.]

"A Hymn of Praise"

-adapted to the Genl. Thanksgiving

appointed by Congress,
Dec. 13, 1781,

1. To Thee! High Sovereign of the Skies!
This day our grateful Songs resound;
From every heart shall incense rise,
And praise thro' all thy temples sound.
2. Our land a tributary slave
Doom'd to Rebellion's awful fate;
When heav'n a powerful Monarch gave
To aid new Pillars of the State.
3. Rais'd and establish'd by thy pow'r,
Firm props of the Republic's Laws;
Thy Blessings on the people show'r,
Thine Arm supports th' united cause.
4. Union 'tis God alone inspires:
Founded by Heav'n, the Fabrics rise;
Th' astonish'd world the work admires
And owns the council of the skies.
5. New Empires never rise by chance,
No Gales such high distinctions blow;
Th' All-ruling Judge doth States advance,
And lays a tyrant-Kingdom low.
6. He forms our General prudent, brave,
Gives our young Captains warlike skill;
Angelic shields our troops preserve,
Who scale proud towers with Breasts of Steel.
7. No savage deed distains the sword,
While Heav'n's taught Chief directs the Host;
Submission hails the joyous word,
Mercy!-the christian Conqu'ror's Boast!
8. The Memory of thy recent grace,*
Afresh inspires them for the field:
The Foe shall find renew'd disgrace,
And fly our shores, or fated!-yield.
9. Our fertile Fields thy Favour show:
With Gifts revolving Moons appear,
Gifts!-that in streams luxuriant flow
Thy Goodness crown th' auspicious Year!
10. Save us from Fears despondent Sighs;
Now may our Trust in God be strong,
Till full deliv'rance shall arise
And heav'n born peace resound the Song.

- George Clymer, Pennsylvania delegate

Journals of the Continental Congress,

[FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 1782]

"...Hence it became the duty of Congress to apply to the States for those powers and aids, which are indispensibly necessary for the great work of independence. It is on them alone, and their exertions under the blessing of divine providence, that we are now to rely for the means of conducting the war, and bringing it to a happy issue...."

"...It gives us pain to observe, that these expectations have not been fully answered; and that by the backwardness of the States to grant the necessary supplies, the well concerted laid plans of our General have been diconcerted, and that the designs of Congress have been frustrated in two important objects,--the first founded in prompted by the immutable Laws principles of justice, the relief of to relieve the distresses of thousands who trusted the U.S. in the hour of difficulty and danger, the last, to establish public credit on a solid foundation, on which depend under God not only our own safety and happiness but that of millions yet unborn public credit on which our safety and success depend...."

"...The moment for action arrived, but the General found his ranks so thin, and even the small force he had collected so ill supplied, that it became imprudent to proceed: disappointment, and a great unprofitable expence ensued; and had it not been for the aid of money granted by our generous Ally, for the providential arrival of his fleet in the Chesapeak, and an almost miraculous coincidence of fortune circumstances which by the blessing of God were happily improv'd our public affairs must now have been in the most disagreeable situation...."

Journals of the Continental Congress,
TUESDAY, MARCH 19, 1782.

"...Proclamation:

"...then is that People loudly called upon to fly unto that GOD for Protection who hears the Cries of the Distressed, and will not turn a deaf Ear to the Supplication of the Oppressed..."

- John Hancock, Boston, the Eleventh Day of April, in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Eighty Two, and in the Sixth Year of the Independence of the United States of AMERICA.

"...If ever the citizens of this republic have had an occasion to remember, with sentiments of the liveliest gratitude, the visible assistance and protection of a Being who, after having constantly supported them during the course of a long, bloody war which cost their ancestors eighty years' hard struggles and painful labors, deigned by the strength of His powerful arm to break the odious fetters under which we had so long groaned, and who, from that happy era to the present time, has constantly maintained us in the possession of our precious liberties; if ever the citizens of these provinces have been bound to remember those unspeakable favors of the Almighty, it was no doubt at that moment when haughty Britain began to feel the effects of divine indignation, and when the vengeance of Heaven defeated her sanguinary schemes; it was when treading under foot the sacred ties of blood and nature, and meditating the destruction of her own offspring, her arms were everywhere baffled in the most terrible and exemplary manner, her troops defeated, and her armies led into captivity and at last that haughty power, humbled by that Heaven which she had provoked, saw the sceptre which she had usurped fall from her enfeebled hands; and America, shaking off the cruel yoke which an unnatural step-mother had endeavored to impose forever upon her, thanked bounteous Heaven for her happy deliverance...."

- J. Adams, Letter to Livingston, July 5, 1782. [The Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence of the United States, Volume 5.]

Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 19

George Duffield and William White

Reverend Gentlemen

Philad.

1st Septr. 1782

Our Knowledge of your Piety and publick Spirit leads us, without Apology, to recommend to your particular Attention the Edition of the Holy Scriptures publishing by Mr Aitkin.(1) He undertook this expensive work at a time when from the Circumstances of the War an English Edition of the Bible coud not be imported, nor any Opinion formed how long the obstruction might continue. On this Account, particularly, he deserves Applause-and Encouragement. We therefore wish you, reverend Gentlemen, to examine the Execution of the Work, and if approved, to give it the Sanction of your Judgement and the Weight of your Recommendation.
We are with very great Respect, Your most Obedient Huml Servants Jas. Duane, Chair
in behalf of a Committee of
Congress on Mr Aitkin's memorial

FC (DNA: PCC, item 19). Addressed: "Reverend Dr. White & reverend Mr. Duffield Chaplains of the United States in Congress assemd." In the hand of James Duane.
1 The Philadelphia printer Robert Aitken had petitioned Congress on January 21, 1781, to secure authorization for an American edition of the Bible he had undertaken but was fearful of completing "without the sanction of Congress." The scarcity of Bibles had long been of concern, for Congress had been urged to import several thousand from abroad in 1777, and a committee consisting of James Duane, Thomas McKean, and James McLene had been appointed in October 1780 to consider a recommendation for urging the states to regulate the printing of "correct editions of the old and new testament." Aitken's memorial had been referred on January 26, 1781, to this committee (to which John Witherspoon had been added in the place of McLene), which had apparently been consulting with the printer as he proceeded, although no record of its work prior to the writing of this letter has been found. Aitken was obviously now nearing completion of the publication and the committee decided to consult the congressional chaplains before reporting to Congress, which resolved on September 12 to "recommend this edition of the Bible to the inhabitants of the United States" and authorize Aitken "to publish this recommendation in the manner he shall think proper." Accordingly, copies of Congress' resolve, along with Duane's committee letter and Duffield's and White's testimonial were printed in Aitken's new edition, which he announced to the public on September 25. See JCC, 18:979-80, 19:91; 23:573-74; and PCC, item 19, 1:59, 63-64, item 78, 1:421-22, 425-28. For Aitken's efforts to secure public support for this undertaking, on which he eventually reported a loss of £4,000 for the 10,000 Bibles he printed, see Thomas C. Pears, "The Story of the Aitken Bible,"Journal of the Presbyterian Historical .Society 18 (June 1939): 225-41; and Margaret T. Hills, "The First American Bible, as Published by Robert Aitken," Bible .Society Record 113 January 1968): 2-5. See also JCC, 8:733-35; and these Letters, 7:311-12, where it is mistakenly asserted that Congress adopted a resolve in September 1777 to direct the Committee of Commerce to import 20,000 Bibles, while in fact Congress adjourned to avoid a final vote on a committee report recommending this action.

Journals of the Continental Congress,

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 1782

...The committee, consisting of Mr. [James] Duane, Mr. [Thomas] McKean and Mr. [John] Witherspoon, to whom was referred a petition memorial of Robert Aitken, printer, dated 21 January, 1781, respecting an edition of the holy scriptures, report,

That Mr. Aitken has at a great expence now finished an American edition of the holy scriptures in English; that the committee have, from time to time, conferred with him attended to his progress in the work: that they also recommended it to the two chaplains of Congress to examine and give their opinion of the execution, who have accordingly reported thereon:

The recommendation and report being as follows:

Philadelphia, 1 September, 1782.

Rev. Gentlemen, Our knowledge of your piety and public spirit leads us without apology to recommend to your particular attention the edition of the holy scriptures publishing by Mr. Aitken. He undertook this expensive work at a time, when from the circumstances of the war, an English edition of the Bible could not be imported, nor any opinion formed how long the obstruction might continue. On this account particularly he deserves applause and encouragement. We therefore wish you, reverend gentlemen, to examine the execution of the work, and if approved, to give it the sanction of your judgment and the weight of your recommendation. We are with very great respect, your most obedient humble servants,

(Signed) James Duane, Chairman,

In behalf of a committee of Congress on Mr. Aitken's memorial.

Rev. Dr. White and Rev. Mr. Duffield, chaplains of the United States in Congress assembled.

REPORT.

Gentlemen, Agreeably to your desire, we have paid attention to Mr. Robert Aitken's impression of the holy scriptures, of the old and new testament. Having selected and examined a variety of passages throughout the work, we are of opinion, that it is executed with great accuracy as to the sense, and with as few grammatical and typographical errors as could be expected in an undertaking of such magnitude. Being ourselves witnesses of the demand for this invaluable book, we rejoice in the present prospect of a supply, hoping that it will prove as advantageous as it is honorable to the gentleman, who has exerted himself to furnish it at the evident risk of private fortune. We are, gentlemen, your very respectful and humble servants,

(Signed) William White,
George Duffield.

Philadelphia, September 10, 1782.

Hon. James Duane, esq. chairman, and the other hon. gentlemen of the committee of Congress on Mr. Aitken's memorial.

Whereupon, Resolved, That the United States in Congress assembled, highly approve the pious and laudable undertaking of Mr. Aitken, as subservient to the interest of religion as well as an instance of the progress of arts in this country, and being satisfied from the above report, of his care and accuracy in the execution of the work, they recommend this edition of the Bible to the inhabitants of the United States, and hereby authorise him to publish this recommendation in the manner he shall think proper.¹

[Note 1: 1 The Committee's report, in the writing of John Witherspoon, is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 19, I, folio 59. Duane's letter is on folio 65. White and Duffield's report on folio 63. Aitken's letter of September 9 submitting the work to Congress is in No. 78, I, folio 421. His letter of September 25, sending one of the first copies to Congress, is on folio 425.]

Journals of the Continental Congress,

April 26, 1783

"Let it be remembered finally, that it has ever been the pride and boast of America, that the rights for which she contended, were the rights of human nature. By the blessing of the author of these rights, on the means exerted for their defence, they have prevailed against all opposition, and form at this time the basis of thirteen independent states. No instance has heretofore occurred, nor can any instance be expected hereafter to occur, in which the unadulterated forms of Republican government can pretend to so fair an opportunity of justifying themselves by their fruits. In this view the citizens of the United States are responsible for the greatest trust ever confided to a political society. If justice, good faith, honor, gratitude and all the other virtues qualities which ennoble the character of a nation, and fulfil the ends of government, be the fruits of our establishments, the cause of liberty will acquire a dignity and lustre which it has never yet enjoyed; and an example will be set which cannot fail to but have the most favourable influence on the rights of mankind. If on the other side, our governments should be unfortunately blotted with the reverse of these cardinal and essential qualities virtues, the great cause which we have engaged to vindicate will be dishonored and betrayed; the last and fairest experiment in favour of the rights of human nature will be turned against them, and their patrons and friends exposed to be insulted and silenced by the sycophants votaries of tyranny and usurpation."

- James Madison, Address to the States, by the United States Congress Assembled.

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

George Washington to Meshech Weare, et al, Circular Letter of Farewell to Army

Head Quarters, Newburgh, June 8, 1783.

"...I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would have you, and the State over which you preside, in his holy protection, that he would incline the hearts of the Citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to Government, to entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another, for their fellow Citizens of the United States at large, and particularly for their brethren who have served in the Field, and finally, that he would most graciously be pleased to dispose us all, to do Justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that Charity, humility and pacific temper of mind, which were the Characteristicks of the Divine Author of our blessed Religion, and without an humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy Nation."

The Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence of the United States, Volume 6

Franklin to Hartley.^*

[Note *: * 2 Sparks' Dip. Rev. Corr., 488; 1 Sparks' Dip. Corr. of the United States, 371; 8 Bigelow's Franklin, 367.]

Passy, October 16, 1783.

My Dear Friend: I have nothing material to write to you respecting public affairs, but I can not let Mr. Adams, who will see you, go without a line to inquire after your welfare, to inform you of mine, and assure you of my constant respect and attachment.

I think with you that your Quaker article is a good one, and that men will in time have sense enough to adopt it, but I fear that time is not yet come.

What would you think of a proposition, if I should make it, of a compact between England, France, and America? America would be as happy as the Sabine girls if she could be the means of uniting in perpetual peace her father and her husband. What repeated follies are those repeated wars! You do not want to conquer and govern one another. Why, then, should you be continually employed in injuring and destroying one another? How many excellent things might have been done to promote the internal welfare of each country; what bridges, roads, canals, and other useful public works and institutions, tending to the common felicity, might have been made and established with the money and men foolishly spent during the last seven centuries by our mad wars in doing one another mischief! You are near neighbors, and each have very respectable qualities. Learn to be quiet and to respect each other's rights. You are all Christians. One is The Most Christian King, and the other Defender of the Faith. Manifest the propriety of these titles by your future conduct. "By this," says Christ, "shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye love one another." Seek peace and insure it.

Adieu, yours, &c.,

B. Franklin

Journals of the Continental Congress,

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 1783

By the United States in Congress assembled.

A PROCLAMATION.

Whereas it hath pleased the Supreme Ruler of all human events, to dispose the hearts of the late belligerent powers to put a period to the effusion of human blood, by proclaiming a cessation of all hostilities by sea and land, and these United States are not only happily rescued from the dangers distresses and calamities which they have so long and so magnanimously sustained to which they have been so long exposed, but their freedom, sovereignty and independence ultimately acknowledged by the king of Great Britain. And whereas in the progress of a contest on which the most essential rights of human nature depended, the interposition of Divine Providence in our favour hath been most abundantly and most graciously manifested, and the citizens of these United States have every possible reason for praise and gratitude to the God of their salvation. Impressed, therefore, with an exalted sense of the magnitude of the blessings by which we are surrounded, and of our entire dependence on that Almighty Being, from whose goodness and bounty they are derived, the United States in Congress assembled do recommend it to the several States, to set apart the second Thursday in December next, as a day of public thanksgiving, that all the people may then assemble to celebrate with one voice grateful hearts and united voices, the praises of their Supreme and all bountiful Benefactor, for his numberless favors and mercies. That he hath been pleased to conduct us in safety through all the perils and vicissitudes of the war; that he hath given us unanimity and resolution to adhere to our just rights; that he hath raised up a powerful ally to assist us in supporting them, and hath so far crowned our united efforts with success, that in the course of the present year, hostilities have ceased, and we are left in the undisputed possession of our liberties and independence, and of the fruits of our own land, and in the free participation of the treasures of the sea; that he hath prospered the labour of our husbandmen with plentiful harvests; and above all, that he hath been pleased to continue to us the light of the blessed gospel, and secured to us in the fullest extent the rights of conscience in faith and worship. And while our hearts overflow with gratitude, and our lips set forth the praises of our great Creator, that we also offer up fervent supplications, that it may please him to pardon all our offences, to give wisdom and unanimity to our public councils, to cement all our citizens in the bonds of affection, and to inspire them with an earnest regard for the national honor and interest, to enable them to improve the days of prosperity by every good work, and to be lovers of peace and tranquillity; that he may be pleased to bless us in our husbandry, our commerce and navigation; to smile upon our seminaries and means of education, to cause pure religion and virtue to flourish, to give peace to all nations, and to fill the world with his glory.

Done by the United States in Congress assembled, witness his Excellency Elias Boudinot, our President, this 18th day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty-three, and of the sovereignty and independence of the United States of America the eighth.¹

[Note 1: 1 This report, in the writing of James Duane, is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 24, folios 473--477.]

George Washington's Resignation Address,
Dec. 23, 1783

DEFENSIVE ARMS VINDICATED

AND THE

LAWFULNESS

OF THE

AMERICAN WAR MADE MANIFEST

The Definitive Treaty of Peace, "In the name of the most holy and undivided Trinity", Jan. 14, 1784

A Proclamation, "to continue to us the light of gospel truths", Aug. 3, 1784

"The principle of liberty, when properly felt, inspires universal benevolence. It is in unison with the spirit of christianity, which breathes "peace on earth, and good will to man." While we open the doors of freedom to the oppressed and distressed of all nations, even to those British subjects who have dyed their weapons with American blood, shall we shut them against men, who are bone of our bone, and flesh of our flesh. We know of no crime that should consign half a community to perpetual slavery; much less do we conceive that an adherence to what they judged to be the dictates of conscience should expose them to that degraded situation.

- George Gray, Assembly Chamber, September 29, 1784. To the citizens of Pennsylvania. Friends and fellow-citizens. [In regard to the withdrawal from the Assembly of nineteen members on the third reading of a supplement to the Test-law.] Signed in behalf and by order of the majority.

"Before I sit down, Mr. President, I will suggest another matter; and I am really surprised that it has not been proposed by some other member at an earlier period of our deliberations. I will suggest, Mr. President, the propriety of nominating and appointing, before we separate, a chaplain to this Convention, whose duty it shall be uniformly to assemble with us, and introduce the business of each day by an address to the Creator of the universe, and the Governor of all nations, beseeching Him to preside in our council, enlighten our minds with a portion of heavenly wisdom, influence our hearts with a love of truth and justice, and crown our labors with complete and abundant success!"

- Benjamin Franklin, The Records of the Federal Convention, William Steele's acccount of Franklin's Speech, 1787

"All of us who were engaged in the struggle must have observed frequent instances of superintending providence in our favor. To that kind providence we owe this happy opportunity of consulting in peace on the means of establishing our future national felicity. And have we now forgotten that powerful friend? Or do we imagine that we no longer need his assistance? I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth-that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the Ground without his Notice, is it probable that an Empire can rise without his Aid?"

- Benjamin Franklin (To Colleagues at the Constitutional Convention). Reference: Quoted by James Madison, Notes of Debates in the Federal Convention of 1787. (New York: W.W. Norton and Company, 1987), pp. 209

Journals of the Continental Congress,

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 1787.

"...United States of America together with the attestations thereto annexed are in the following words, to wit,

Journals of the Continental Congress,
MONDAY, JULY 23, 1787.

"...Resolved That Congress are well pleased with the Conduct of Thomas Barclay esq.r in the course of the Negociations on the part of the United States with his imperial Majesty of Morocco, as detailed and represented in his and other letters and papers transmitted to them. [2]

[Note 2: 2 This resolve is also entered in the Secret Journals. See below.]

[1] On a report[2] of the Secretary for foreign Affairs, Congress agreed to the following Letter to the Emperor of Morocco

[Note 1: 1 From this point to the end of the day the proceedings are entered by John Fisher and attested by Charles Thomson, in Secret Journal Foreign, Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 6, III, pp. 383--390. They are also entered by Thomson in Secret Journal, Foreign Affairs, Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 5, III, pp. 1619--1627.]

[Note 2: 2 The report of the Secretary for Foreign Affairs, John Jay, dated and read July 23, 1787, is in Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 81, III, p. 125: 1--10. This report has emendations and markings to bring the reading into conformity with the Journal entry. The change in the introduction and other variant readings of phrases and words, simply to change the report to a Journal reading, have not been noted. The significant variations of the report from the Journal are indicated in the footnotes. See July 18, 1787.]

Great and Magnanimous Friend,

We have received the letter which your imperial Majesty did us the honor to write dated the first of the month of Ramadan 1200.

We have likewise received the treaty concluded on our behalf with your Majesty, and we have expressed our perfect approbation of it, by ratifying and publishing and ordering it to be faithfully observed and fulfilled by all our Citizens.

It gives us great pleasure to be on terms of peace and Amity with so illustrious a sovereign, and we flatter ourselves that the commerce of these distant regions with your Majesty's dominions will gradually become more and more beneficial to both; especially after our Navigation shall cease to be interrupted by the[3] hostilities of the Neighbouring States in Africa.

[Note 3: 3 "Unprovoked" struck out.]

Your Majesty's early and friendly attention to these new and rising States, the obliging manner in which you received and treated our Negotiator Thomas Barclay, and the liberal and disinterested terms on which your Majesty entered into Treaty with us, are strong and shining proofs of a great mind; proofs which will remain recorded in our Annals, and which will always render your Majesty's Name respected and glorious in these western Countries.

These distinguished marks of your Majesty's good will towards us, inspire us with perfect confidence in your friendship, and induce us to request your favorable interposition to incline Algiers, Tunis and Tripoli, to peace with us on such terms as may consist with our honor and with the circumstances of our new and distant States.

Should your Majesty's mediation be the means of putting the United States at peace with their only remaining enemies, it would be an event so glorious and memorable, that your majesty's reign would thence derive additional lustre, and your name not only become more and more dear to our Citizens, but more and more celebrated in our histories.

We your Majesty's friends pray God to bless you.

Done by the United States in Congress Assembled at the City of New York the twenty third day of July in the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and Eighty seven...."

United States Constitution

...Article VII

The Ratification of the Conventions of nine States, shall be sufficient for the Establishment of this Constitution between the States so ratifying the Same.

Done in Convention by the Unanimous Consent of the States present the Seventeenth Day of September in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty seven and of the Independence of the United States of America the Twelfth. In Witness whereof We have hereunto subscribed our Names.

Go Washington - President and deputy from Virginia...

"[100] The part of the system which provides, that no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States, was adopted by a great majority of the convention, and without much debate; however, there were some members so unfashionable as to think, that a belief of the existence of a Deity, and of a state of future rewards and punishments would be some security for the good conduct of our rulers, and that, in a Christian country, it would be at least decent to hold out some distinction between the professors of Christianity and downright infidelity or paganism."

- Luther Martin, "Genuine Information", address to Federal Convention of 1787.

"...The Author of nature has given mankind a certain degree of insight into futurity. As far as we can see a probability that certain events will happen, so far we do well to provide and guard. . . ."

"...While the great body of freeholders are acquainted with the duties which they owe to their God, to themselves, and to men, they will remain free. But if ignorance and depravity should prevail, they will inevitably lead to slavery and ruin. Upon the whole view of this Constitution, I am in favor of it, and think it bids fair to promote our national prosperity...."

DEBATES IN THE CONVENTION OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS, ON THE ADOPTION OF THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION, Jan. 1788

“...If this system is broken up, will thirteen, or even nine states, ever agree to another? And will Providence smile on a people who despise the privileges put into their hands, and who neglect the plainest principles of justice and honesty? After all, I by no means pretend that there is complete perfection in this proposed Constitution. Like all other human productions, it hath its faults. Provision is made for an amendment, whenever, from practice, it is found oppressive. I would add, the proposals which his excellency hath condescended to lay before this honorable Convention, respecting future alterations, are real improvements for the better; and we have no reason to doubt but they will be equally attended to by other states, as they lead to common security and preservation.”

- Rev. Thomas Thacher, Feb. 4, 1788. The Records of the Federal Convention of 1787 [Farrand's Records, Volume 1]

A FRAGMENT OF FACTS, DISCLOSING THE CONDUCT OF THE MARYLAND CONVENTION, ON THE ADOPTION OF THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION.

April 21, 1788

"...May the all-wise and omnipotent Being, who made us masters of a fair and fruitful empire, inspire us with wisdom and fortitude to perpetuate to posterity that freedom which we received from our fathers!"

"Grant us amendments like these, and we will cheerfully, with our hands and hearts, unite with those who advocate it, and we will do every thing we can to support and carry it into execution. But in its present form we never can accede to it. Our duty to God and to our posterity forbids it. We acknowledge the defects of the Confederation, and the necessity of a reform. We ardently wish for a union with our sister states, on terms of security, This I am bold to declare is the desire of most the people. On these terms we will most cheerfully join with the warmest friends of this Constitution. On another occasion I shall point out the great dangers of this Constitution, and the amendments which are necessary.”

- George Mason, June 11, 1788. The Debates in the Several State Conventions on the Adoption of the Federal Constitution [Elliot's Debates, Volume 3]

The Debates in the Several State Conventions on the Adoption of the Federal Constitution [Elliot's Debates, Volume 3]
Thursday, June 12, 1788.

“The honorable member has introduced the subject of religion. Religion is not guarded; there is no bill of rights declaring that religion should be secure. Is a bill of rights a security for religion? Would the bill of rights, in this state, exempt the people from paying for the support of one particular sect, if such sect were exclusively: established by law? If there were a majority of one sect, a bill of rights would be a poor protection for liberty. Happily for the states, they enjoy the utmost freedom of religion. This freedom arises from that multiplicity of sects which pervades America, and which is the best and only security for religions liberty in any society; for where there is such a variety of sects, there cannot be a majority of any one sect to oppress and persecute the rest, Fortunately for this commonwealth, a majority of the people are decidedly against any exclusive establishment. I believe it to be so in the other states. There is not a shadow of right in the general government to intermeddle with religion. Its least interference with it would be a most flagrant usurpation. I can appeal to my uniform conduct on this subject, that I have warmly supported religious freedom. It is better that this security should be depended upon from the general legislature, than from one particular state. A particular state might concur in one religious project. But the United States abound in such a variety of sects, that it is a strong security against religious persecution; and it is sufficient to authorize a conclusion, that no one sect will ever be able to outnumber or depress the rest.”

- James Madison

"The only people whose government was visibly directed by God himself, rejected his administration, and induced him, in his wrath, to give them a king. Let us be cautious, sir, lest, by our negligence or eager pursuit after chimerical perfection, we should forfeit the blessings we enjoy, and lose this precious opportunity of completing what other nations have been unable to effect."

- Hon. Robert R. Livingston

"The nation of Israel, having received a form of civil government from Haven, enjoyed it for a considerable period; but, at length, laboring under pressures which were brought upon them by their own misconduct and imprudence, instead of imputing their misfortunes to their true causes, and making a proper improvement of their calamities, by a correction of their errors, they imputed them to a defect in their constitution; they rejected their divine Ruler, and asked Samuel to make them a king to judge them, like other nations. Samuel was grieved at their folly; but still, by the command of God, he hearkened to their voice, though not until he had solemnly declared unto them the manner in which the king should reign over them. "This (says Samuel) shall be the manner of the king that shall reign over you. He will take your sons, and appoint them for himself, for his chariots, and for his horsemen, and some shall run before his chariots; and he will appoint him captains over thousands, and captains over fifties, and will set them to ear his ground, and to reap his harvest, and to make his instruments of war, and instruments of his chariots. And he will take your daughters to be confectionaries, and to be cooks, and to be bakers. And he will take your fields, and your vineyards, and your olive-yards, even the best of them, and give them to his servants. And he will take the tenth of your seed, and of your vineyards, and give to his officers and to his servants, and he will take your men-servants, and your maid-servants, and your goodliest young men, and your asses, and put them to his work. He will take the tenth of your sheep; and ye shall be his servants. And ye shall cry out in that day, because of your king which ye have chosen you; and the Lord will not hear you in that day!" How far this was applicable to the subject, he would not now say; it could be better judged of when they had gone through it. On the whole, he wished to take up this matter with candor and deliberation."

- Mr. Melancton Smith

"These, sir, are the rocks on which the Constitution should have rested; no other foundation can any man lay, which will secure the sacred temple of freedom against the power of the great, the undermining arts of ambition, and the blasts of profane scoffers--for such there will be in every age--who will tell us that all religion is in vain; that is, that our political creeds, which have been handed down to us by our forefathers as sacredly as our Bibles, and for which more of them have suffered martyrdom than for the creed of the apostles, are all nonsense; who will tell us that paper constitutions are mere paper, and that parchment is but parchment, that jealousy of our rulers is a sin, &c. I could have wished also that sufficient caution had been used to secure to us our religious liberties, and to have prevented the general government from tyrannizing over our consciences by a religious establishment--a tyranny of all others most dreadful, and which will assuredly be exercised whenever it shall be thought necessary for the promotion and support of their political measures. It is ardently to be wished, sir, that these and other invaluable rights of freemen had been as cautiously secured as some of the paltry local interests of some of the individual states. . . . . You may read them in the history of the Star Chamber Court in England, and in the courts of Philip, and in your Bible...."

 - Thomas Tredwell

The Debates in the Several State Conventions, (New York), June, 1788

"...A MAJORITY of those who were duly elected as members of this Convention being met at the church, they proceeded to the election of a president, when his excellency, Samuel Johnston, Esq., was unanimously chosen, and conducted to the chair accordingly...."

- The Debates in the Several State Conventions on the Adoption of the Federal Constitution [Elliot's Debates, Volume 4] DEBATES IN THE CONVENTION OF THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, ON THE ADOPTION OF THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION.

"This country has already had the honor of setting an example of civil freedom, and I trust it will likewise have the honor of teaching the rest of the world the way to religious freedom also. God grant both may be perpetuated to the end of time!"

- Mr. James Iredell, July 30, 1788. The Debates in the Several State Conventions on the Adoption of the Federal Constitution [Elliot's Debates, Volume 4] DEBATES IN THE CONVENTION OF THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, ON THE ADOPTION OF THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION. (Debate concerning Religious Oath).

Journal of the Senate of the United States of America,

TUESDAY, APRIL 21, 1789.

A trust of the greatest magnitude is committed to this Legislature; and the eyes of the world are upon you Your country expects, from the results of your deliberations, in concurrence with the other branches of government, consideration abroad, and contentment at home--prosperity, order, justice, peace, and liberty: And may God Almighty's providence assist you to answer their just expectations.

- John Adams, Vice President of the United States

Journal of the Senate of the United States of America,
THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 1789.

"...The President having returned to his seat, after a short pause arose, and addressed the Senate and House of Representatives as follows:

Letter to the General Assembly of Presbyterian Churches

George Washington

May, 1789

While I reiterate the professions of my dependence upon Heaven as the source of all public and private blessings; I will observe that the general prevalence of piety, philanthropy, honesty, industry, and oeconomy seems, in the ordinary course of human affairs, particularly necessary for advancing and conforming the happiness of our country. While all men within our territories are protected in worshipping the Deity according to the dictates of their consciences; it is rationally to be expected from them in return, that they will be emulous of evincing the sanctity of their professions by the innocence of their lives and the beneficence of their actions; for no man, who is profligate in his morals, or a bad member of the civil community, can possibly be a true Christian, or a credit to his own religious society.

I desire you to accept my acknowledgments for your laudable endeavors to render men sober, honest, and good Citizens, and the obedient subjects of a lawful government.

Journal of the House of Representatives of the United States,

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 1789

On motion,

Resolved, That a Joint Committee of both Houses be directed to wait upon the President of the United States, to request that he would recommend to the People of the United States, a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed, by acknowledging, with grateful hearts, the many signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a Constitution of Government for their safety and happiness.

**********

Journal of the Senate of the United States of America,

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 1789

The Senate proceeded to consider the resolve of the House of Representatives of the 25th instant, to wit:

"In the House of Representatives of the United States,

"September 25th, 1789.

Resolved, That a joint committee of both Houses be appointed to wait on the President of the United States, to request that he would recommend to the people of the United States, a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed, by acknowledging, with grateful hearts, the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a constitution of government for their safety and happiness.

"Ordered, That Messrs. Boudinot, Sherman, and Sylvester, be appointed of the said committee on the part of this House."

Resolved, That the Senate do concur in the above recited resolution, and that Messrs. Johnson and Izard, be the Committee on the part of the Senate.

Journal of the Senate of the United States of America,
MONDAY, JANUARY 11, 1790.

Benjamin Rush, "Defense of the Use of The Bible in Schools", 1791

Journal of the House of Representatives of the United States,

TUESDAY, MAY 1, 1792

On a motion made and seconded,

Resolved, That a joint committee of both Houses be directed to wait on the President of the United States, to request that he would recommend to the People of the United States a day of public humiliation and prayer to be observed, by supplicating Almighty God for the safety, peace, and welfare, of these States.

"But influenced by the belief, that my conduct would be estimated according to its real motives; and that the people, and the authorities derived from them, would support exertions, having nothing personal for their object, I have obeyed the suffrage which commanded me to resume the Executive power; and I humbly implore that Being, on whose Will the fate of Nations depends, to crown with success our mutual endeavours for the general happiness."

- President George Washington, Address to Congress, December 3, 1793

"Man, fearfully and wonderfully made, is the workmanship of his all perfect Creator: A State; useful and valuable as the contrivance is, is the inferior contrivance of man; and from his native dignity derives all its acquired importance. When I speak of a State as an inferior contrivance, I mean that it is a contrivance inferior only to that, which is divine: Of all human contrivances, it is certainly most transcendantly excellent. It is concerning this contrivance that Cicero says so sublimely, 'Nothing, which is exhibited upon our globe, is more acceptable to that divinity, which governs the whole universe, than those communities and assemblages of men, which, lawfully associated, are denominated States*'.

"Let a State be considered as subordinate to the People: But let every thing else be subordinate to the State. The latter part of this position is equally necessary with the former. For in the practice, and even at length, in the science of politics there has very frequently been a strong current against the natural order of things, and an inconsiderate or an interested disposition to sacrifice the end to the means. As the State has claimed precedence of the people; so, in the same inverted course of things, the Government has often claimed precedence of the State; and to this perversion in the second degree, many of the volumes of confusion concerning sovereignty owe their existence. The ministers, dignified very properly by the appellation of the magistrates, have wished, and have succeeded in their wish, to be considered as the sovereigns of the State. This second degree of perversion is confined to the old world, and begins to diminish, even there: but the first degree is still too prevalent, even in the several States, of which our union is composed. By a State I mean, a complete body of free persons united together for their common benefit, to enjoy peaceably what is their own, and to do justice to others. It is an artificial person. It has its affairs and its interests: It has its rules: It has its rights: And it has its obligations. It may acquire property distinct from that of its members: It may incur debts to be discharged out of the public stock, not out of the private fortunes of individuals. It may be bound by contracts; and for damages arising from the breach of those contracts. In all our contemplations, however, concerning this feigned and artificial person, we should never forget, that, in truth and nature, those, who think and speak, and act, are men...."

"...As a citizen, I know the Government of that State to be republican; and my short definition of such a Government is, one constructed on this principle, that the Supreme Power resides in the body of the people. As a Judge of this Court, I know, and can decide upon the knowledge, that the citizens of Georgia, when they acted upon the large scale of the Union, as a part of the 'People of the United States,' did not surrender the Supreme or Sovereign Power to that State; but, as to the purposes of the Union, retained it to themselves. As to the purposes of the Union, therefore, Georgia is NOT a sovereign State. If the Judicial decision of this case forms one of those purposes; the allegation, that Georgia is a sovereign State, is unsupported by the fact. Whether the judicial decision of this cause is, or is not, one of those purposes, is a question which will be examined particularly in a subsequent part of my argument...."

- Justice Wilson, U.S. Supreme Court, CHISHOLM v. STATE OF GA., 2 US 419 (1793).

"Prior to the date of the Constitution, the people had not any national tribunal to which they could resort for justice; the distribution of justice was then confined to State judicatories, in whose institution and organization the people of the other States had no participation, and over whom they had not the least control. There was then no general Court of appellate jurisdiction, by whom the errors of State Courts, affecting either the nation at large or the citizens of any other State, could be revised and corrected. Each State was obliged to acquiesce in the measure of justice which another State might yield to her, or to her citizens; and that even in cases where State considerations were not always favorable to the most exact measure. There was danger that from this source animosities would in time result; and as the transition from animosities to hostilities was frequent in the history of independent States, a common tribunal for the termination of controversies became desirable, from motives both of justice and of policy.

"Prior also to that period, the United States had, by taking a place among the nations of the earth, become amenable to the laws of nations; and it was their interest as well as their duty to provide, that those laws should be respected and obeyed; in their national character and capacity, the United States were responsible to foreign nations for the conduct of each State, relative to the laws of nations, and the performance of treaties; and there the inexpediency of referring all such questions to State Courts, and particularly to the Courts of delinquent States became apparent. While all the States were bound to protect each, and the citizens of each, it was highly proper and reasonable, that they should be in a capacity, not only to cause justice to be done to each, and the citizens of each; but also to cause justice to be done by each, and the citizens of each; and that, not by violence and force, but in a stable, sedate, and regular course of judicial procedure.

"These were among the evils against which it was proper for the nation, that is, the people of all the United States, to provide by a national judiciary, to be instituted by the whole nation, and to be responsible to the whole nation.

"Let us now turn to the Constitution. The people therein declare, that their design in establishing it, comprehended six objects. 1st. To form a more perfect union. 2nd. To establish justice. 3rd. To ensure domestic tranquillity. 4th. To provide for the common defence. 5th. To promote the general welfare. 6th. To secure the blessings of liberty to themselves and their posterity. It would be pleasing and useful to consider and trace the relations which each of these objects bears to the others; and to show that they collectively comprise every thing requisite, with the blessing of Divine Providence, to render a people prosperous and happy on the present occasion such disquisitions would be unseasonable, because foreign to the subject immediately under consideration."

- Chief Justice Jay, U.S. Supreme Court, CHISHOLM v. STATE OF GA., 2 US 419 (1793).

Proclamation

By the President of the United States of America

"...Now, therefore, I, George Washington, President of the United States, in obedience to that high and irresistible duty consigned to me by the Constitution, “to take care that the laws be faithfully executed,” deploring that the American name should be sullied by the outrages of citizens on their own government; commiserating such as remain obstinate from delusion; but resolved, in perfect reliance on that gracious Providence which so signally displays its goodness towards this country, to reduce the refractory to a due subordination to the law, do hereby declare and make known that, with a satisfaction which can be equalled only by the merits of the militia summoned into service from the States of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia, I have received intelligence of their patriotic alacrity in obeying the call of the present, though painful, yet commanding necessity; that a force, which according to every reasonable expectation is adequate to the exigency, is already in motion to the scene of disaffection; that those who have confided, or shall confide in the protection of government, shall meet full succor under the standard and from the arms of the United States; that those who, having offended against the law, have since entitled themselves to indemnity, will be treated with the most liberal good faith, if they shall not have forfeited their claim by any subsequent conduct, and that instructions are given accordingly. And I do, moreover, exhort all individuals, officers, and bodies of men, to contemplate with abhorrence the measures leading directly or indirectly to those crimes which produce this resort to military coercion; to check, in their respective spheres, the efforts of misguided or designing men to substitute their misrepresentations in the place of truth, and their discontents in the place of stable government; and to call to mind that, as the people of the United States have been permitted, under the Divine favor, in perfect freedom, after solemn deliberation and in an enlightened age, to elect their own government, so will their gratitude for this inestimable blessing be best distinguished by firm exertions to maintain the Constitution and the laws."

- George Washington, Sept. 25, 1794. [The Works of Alexander Hamilton, ed. Henry Cabot Lodge (Federal Edition) (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1904). In 12 vols. Vol. 6.]

Journal of the Senate of the United States of America,

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1794.

“When we call to mind the gracious indulgence of Heaven, by which the American people became a nation; when we survey the general prosperity of our country, and look forward to the riches, power, and happiness to which it seems destined; with the deepest regret do I announce to you that, during your recess, some of the citizens of the United States have been found capable of an insurrection. It is due, however, to the character of our government, and to its stability, which cannot be shaken by the enemies of order, freely to unfold the course of this event.....

”...Let us unite, therefore, in imploring the Supreme Ruler of nations to spread his holy protection over these United States; to turn the machinations of the wicked to the confirming of our constitution; to enable us, at all times, to root out internal sedition, and put invasion to flight; to perpetuate to our country that prosperity, which his goodness has already conferred, and to verify the anticipations of this government being a safe-guard to human rights.”

President George Washington

Journal of the Senate of the United States of America,

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 1795

"...Circumstances thus every way auspicious demand our gratitude, and sincere acknowledgments to Almighty God, and require that we should unite our efforts in imitation of your enlightened, firm, and persevering example, to establish and preserve the peace, freedom, and prosperity, of our country..."

JOHN ADAMS,
Vice President of the United States,
and President of the Senate.

Journal of the Senate of the United States of America,

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 1795.

Agreeable to the resolution of yesterday, the Senate waited on the President of the United States, and the Vice President, in their name, presented the address then agreed to.

To which the President of the United States was pleased to make the following reply:

Gentlemen:

With real pleasure I receive your address, recognizing the prosperous situation of our public affairs; and giving assurances of your careful attention to the objects demanding legislative consideration; and that, with a true zeal for the public welfare, you will cheerfully co-operate in every measure which shall appear to you best calculated to promote the same.

But I derive peculiar satisfaction from your concurrence with me in the expressions of gratitude to Almighty God, which a review of the auspicious circumstances that distinguish our happy country have excited; and I trust the sincerity of our acknowledgments will be evinced by a union of efforts to establish and preserve its peace, freedom, and prosperity.

G. WASHINGTON.

Journal of the House of Representatives of the United States,
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7, 1796.

"...In recurring to the internal situation of our country, since I had last the pleasure to address you, I find ample reason for a reserved expression of that gratitude to the Ruler of the Universe, which a continued series of prosperity has so often and so justly called forth...."

"...The situation in which I now stand, for the last time, in the midst of the Representatives of the People of the United States, naturally recalls the period when the administration of the present form of the Government commenced; and I cannot omit the occasion to congratulate you, and my country, on the success of the experiment, nor to repeat my fervent supplications to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe and Sovereign Arbiter of Nations, that his providential care may still be extended to the United States; that the virtue and happiness of the People may be preserved; and that the Government which they have instituted for the protection of their liberties, may be perpetual...."

Journal of the House of Representatives of the United States,
TUESDAY, MAY 16, 1797.

"...The Senate attended, and took seats in the House; when, both Houses being assembled, the President of the United States came into the Representatives' Chamber, and addressed them as followeth:

Journal of the Senate of the United States of America,
TUESDAY, MAY 23, 1797.

"The Senate resumed the consideration of the report of the committee of the draught of an address, in answer to the speech of the President of the United States to both Houses of Congress, at the opening of the session...."

"...We learn, with sincere concern, that attempts are in operation to alienate the affections of our
fellow-citizens from their government. Attempts so wicked, wherever they exist, cannot fail to excite our utmost abhorrence. A government chosen by the people for their own safety and happiness, and calculated to secure both, cannot lose their affections, so long as its administration pursues the principles upon which it was erected. And your resolution to observe a conduct just and impartial to all nations, a sacred regard to our national engagements, and nut to impair the rights of our government, contains principles which cannot fail to secure to your administration the support of the National Legislature, to render abortive every attempt to excite dangerous jealousies among us, and to convince the world that our government, and your administration of it, cannot be separated from the affectionate support of every good citizen. And the Senate cannot suffer the present occasion to pass, without thus publicly and solemnly expressing their attachment to the Constitution and government of their country; and as they hold themselves responsible to their constituents, their consciences, and their God, it is their determination, by all their exertions, to repel every attempt to alienate the affections of the people from the government, so highly injurious to the honor, safety, and independence of the United States...."

"THOMAS JEFFERSON,
Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate."

"Ordered, That the committee who prepared the address wait on the President of the United States, and desire him to acquaint the Senate at what time and place it will be most convenient for him that it should be presented."

Journal of the House of Representatives of the United States,
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1797.

"...Although I cannot yet congratulate you on the re-establishment of peace in Europe, and the restoration of security to the persons and properties of our citizens from injustice and violence at sea, we have nevertheless abundant cause of gratitude to the Source of Benevolence and Influence, for interior tranquility and personal security, for propitious seasons, prosperous agriculture, productive fisheries, and general improvements: And, above all, for a rational spirit of civil and religious liberty, and a calm, but steady determination to support our sovereignty, as well as our moral and religious principles, against all open and secret attacks...."

-President John Adams

"...The question is unnecessary. The people of America are neither idiots nor dastards. They did not break one yoke to put on another. Though a portion of them have been hitherto misled; yet not even these, still less the great body of the nation, can be long unaware of the true situation, or blind to the treacherous arts by which they are attempted to be hoodwinked. The unfaithful and guilty leaders of a foreign faction, unmasked in all their intrinsic deformity,must quickly shrink from the scene appalled and confounded. The virtuous whom they have led astray will renounce their exotic standard. Honest men of all parties will unite to maintain and defend the honor and the sovereignty of their country.

The crisis demands it. ‘T is folly to dissemble. The despots of France are waging war against us. Intoxicated with success and the inordinate love of power, they virtually threaten our independence. All amicable means have in vain been tried towards accommodation. The problem now to be solved is whether we will maintain or surrender our sovereignty. To maintain it with firmness is the most sacred of duties, the most glorious of tasks. The happiness of our country, the honor of the American name, demands it; the genius of independence exhorts to it; the secret mourning voice of oppressed millions in the very country whose despots menace us, admonish to it by their suffering example; the offended dignity of man commands us not to be accessory to its further degradation; reverence to the Supreme Governor of the universe enjoins us not to bow the knee to the modern Titans who erect their impious crests against him and vainly imagine they can subvert his eternal throne."

"But ‘t is not enough to resist. ‘T is requisite to resist with energy. That will be a narrow view of our situation which does not contemplate that we may be called, at our very doors, to defend our independence and liberty, and which does not provide against it by bringing into activity and completely organizing all the resources of our country..."

- Alexander Hamilton, using the pseudonym "Titus Manlius", The Stand, (From the New York Commercial Advertiser.), March 10, 1798. [The Works of Alexander Hamilton, ed. Henry Cabot Lodge (Federal Edition) (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1904). In 12 vols.]

"In reviewing the disgusting spectacle of the French Revolution, it is difficult to avert the eye entirely from those features of it which betray a plan to disorganize the human mind itself, as well as to undermine the venerable pillars that support the edifice of civilized society. The attempt by the rulers of a nation to destroy all religious opinion, and to pervert a whole nation to atheism, is a phenomenon of profligacy reserved to consummate the infamy of the unprincipled reformers of France. The proofs of this terrible design are numerous and convincing.

"The animosity to the Christian system is demonstrated by the single fact of the ridiculous and impolitic establishment of the decades, with the evident object of supplanting the Christian Sabbath. The inscriptions by public authority on the tombs of the deceased, affirming death to be an eternal sleep, witness the desire to discredit the belief of the immortality of the soul. The open profession of atheism in the convention,1 received with acclamations; the honorable mention on its journals of a book professing to prove the nothingness of all religion; the institution of a festival to offer public worship to a courtesan decorated with the pompous title of “Goddess of Reason”; the congratulatory reception of impious children appearing in the hall of the convention to lisp blasphemy against the King of kings, are among the dreadful proofs of a conspiracy to establish atheism on the ruins of Christianity,—to deprive mankind of its best consolations and most animating hopes, and to make a gloomy desert of the universe.

"Latterly, the indications of this plan are not so frequent as they were, but from time to time something still escapes which discovers that it is not renounced. The late address of Buonaparte to the Directory is an example. That unequalled conqueror, from whom it is painful to detract, in whom one would wish to find virtues worthy of his shining talents, profanely unites religion (not superstition) with royalty and the feudal system as the scourges of Europe for centuries ast. The decades likewise remain the catapulta which are to batter down Christianity."

- Alexander Hamilton, using the pseudonym "Titus Manlius", The Stand III, (From the New York Commercial Advertiser.), April 7, 1798. [The Works of Alexander Hamilton, ed. Henry Cabot Lodge (Federal Edition) (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1904). In 12 vols.]

"It is the fervent wish of patriotism that our councils and nation may be united and resolute. The dearest interests call for it. A great public danger commands it. Every good man will rejoice to embrace the adversary of his former opinions, if he will now by candor and energy evince his attachment to his country. Whoever does not do this, consigns himself to irrevocable dishonor. But it is not the triumph over a political rival which the true lover of his country desires—it is the safety and the welfare of that country; and he will gladly share with his bitterest opponent the
glory of defending and preserving her. Americans, rouse—be unanimous, be virtuous, be firm, exert your courage, trust in Heaven, and nobly defy the enemies both of God and man!"

- Alexander Hamilton, using the pseudonym "Titus Manlius", The Stand VI, (From the New York Commercial Advertiser.), April 19, 1798. [The Works of Alexander Hamilton, ed. Henry Cabot Lodge (Federal Edition) (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1904). In 12 vols.]

Journal of the Senate of the United States of America,

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 1798

To the President of the United States:

Sir: The Senate of the United States join you in thanks to Almighty God for the removal of the late afflicting dispensations of his Providence, and for the patriotic spirit, and general prosperity, of our country. Sympathy for the sufferings of our fellow-citizens from disease, and the important interests of the Union, demand of the National Legislature a ready co-operation with the state governments, in the use of such means as seem best calculated to prevent the return of this fatal calamity.

EXTRACTS FROM THE ADDRESS TO THE PEOPLE,

[Elliot's Debates, Volume 4] 

Pledged as we are, fellow-citizens, to these sacred engagements, we yet humbly, fervently implore the Almighty Disposer of events to avert from our land war and usurpation, the scourges of mankind; to permit our fields to be cultivated in peace; to instil into nations the love of friendly intercourse; to suffer our youth to be educated in virtue, and to preserve our morality from the pollution invariably incident to habits of war; to prevent the laborer and husbandman from being harassed by taxes and imposts; to remove from ambition the means of disturbing the commonwealth; to annihilate all pretexts for power afforded by war; to maintain the Constitution; and to bless our nation with tranquillity, under whose benign influence we may reach the summit of happiness and glory, to which we are destined by nature and nature's God.

Attest, JOHN STEWART, C. H. D.

1799, January 23d. Agreed to by the Senate. H. BROOKE, C.S.

Journal of the Senate of the United States of America,
MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, 1799.

"...The Senate proceeded to consider the report of the committee of the draught of an address in answer to the speech of the President of the United States to both Houses of Congress, at the opening of the session; which, being read in paragraphs, was adopted, as follows:

Journal of the House of Representatives of the United States,
MONDAY, DECEMBER 23, 1799.

"...Also, a petition of John Henderson, and others, inhabitants of the Natchez, in the said Territory, praying the aid and patronage of Congress in the establishment of a regular ministry of the Gospel among them, and of schools for the education of their youth.

"Ordered, That the said petitions do lie on the table...."

"Good God! is it a crime for men to defend their own government and country? Is it a punishable offence in the Germans that they will not accept from the French what they offer as liberty at the point of the bayonet? This is to confound all ideas of morality and humanity; it is to trample upon all the rights of man and nations; it is to restore the ages of barbarism; according to the laws and practice of modern war, the peasantry of a country, if they remain peaceably at home, are protected from other harm than a contribution to the necessities of the invading army. Those who join the armies of their country and fight with them, are considered and treated as other soldiers. But the present French doctrine is, that they are to be treated as rebels and criminals.

"German patriotism is a heinous offence in the eyes of French patriots. How are we to solve this otherwise than by observing that the French are influenced by the same spirit of domination which governed the ancient Romans. They considered themselves as having a right to be the masters of the world, and to treat the rest of mankind as their vassals. How clearly is it proved by this that the praise of a civilized world is justly due to Christianity;—war, by the influence of the humane principles of that religion, has been stripped of half its horrors. The French renounce
Christianity, and they relapse into barbarism;—war resumes the same hideous and savage form which it wore in the ages of Gothic and Roman violence."

- Alexander Hamilton, The War In Europe, 1799. [The Works of Alexander Hamilton, ed. Henry Cabot Lodge (Federal Edition) (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1904). In 12 vols. Vol. 6.]

Journal of the Senate of the United States of America,
MONDAY, DECEMBER 23, 1799.

"...Mr. Dexter, from the committee appointed for the purpose on the 18th inst, reported the draught of an address to the President of the United States, on the death of General George Washington; which being read in paragraphs, was adopted, as follows:

From the Office of the Daily Advertiser, Solemn Funeral Honors to the MEMORY of their beloved Chief and Fellow-Citizen General GEORGE WASHINGTON, 31st of December, 1799

The Lord God Omnipotent reigneth!
For the kingdom of this world is become
The kingdom of our Lord and his Christ,
And he shall reign, for ever and ever.
Hallelujah!

GOD IN AMERICA II

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