Page:American History Told by Contemporaries, v2.djvu/565

No. 188] Second. That the said vote does not appear to have been unanimous ; but, we have reason to think, far otherway.

Third. Because the Colonies of New-York and Virginia, which are in similar circumstances with us, are much larger and more opulent, and we presume much wiser, to whom we would wish to pay all due deference, have not attempted any thing of the kind, nor, as we can learn, ever desired it. Fourth. Because we have no ground on which to pretend to make a Council, as our neighbours of the Massachusetts, who act by charter, never vacated on any legal trial.

Fifth. Because it appears assuming for so small and inconsiderable a Colony to take the lead in a matter of so great importance.

Sixth. Because our constituents never expected us to make a new form of Government, but only to set the Judicial and Executive wheels in motion. Seventh. Because the Congress, as such, could have done what was necessary, and their power could not be enlarged by any act of their own.

Eighth. Because the expense of the Colony is greatly augmented thereby.

Ninth. Because it appears to us to be absolutely setting up an independency on the mother country.



188. Drafting of the Declaration of Independence (1776) BY DELEGATE THOMAS JEFFERSON

N Congress, Friday June 7. 1776. The delegates from Virginia moved in obedience to instructions from their constituents that the Congress should declare that these United colonies are & of right ought