Pubdate: Thu, 04 Jul 2002
Source: Ventura County Star (CA)
Webpage: www.staronline.com/vcs/opinion/article/0,1375,VCS_125_1246282,00.html
Copyright: 2002, The E.W. Scripps Co
Contact:  http://www.staronline.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/479
Author: John Adams

FROM FOUNDER ADAMS

John Adams letter to his wife -- July 5, 1776: "Yesterday, the greatest 
question was decided that was ever debated in America; and greater, 
perhaps, never was or will be decided among men.

"A resolution was passed, without one dissenting colony, 'That these United 
States are, and of right ought to be free and independent states.' The day 
passed. The 4th of July, 1776, will be a memorable epoch in the history of 
America.

"I am apt to believe it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the 
great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of 
deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to Almighty God. It ought to be 
solemnized with pomp, shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and 
illuminations, from one end of the continent to the other, from this time 
forward, forever.

"You will think me transported with enthusiasm, but I am not. I am well 
aware of the toil, and blood, and treasure, that it will cost to maintain 
this declaration, and support and defend these states; yet through all the 
gloom, I can see the rays of light and glory. I can see that the end is 
worth more than all the means; and that posterity will triumph, although 
you and I may rue, which I hope we shall not."
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MAP posted-by: Beth