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became the literary fashion thirty years or so ago, and continues to be the vogue in some quarters, to demote, if not to defame, that group of men who are generally designated as the Founding Fathers of this Republic.

The framers of the Constitution were given their full and bitter share of obloquy; but the signers of the Declaration of Independence seemed to be special targets for detraction. Idol smashing was the order of the day. Certain types of writer, politician, and public speaker took delight in uncovering and proclaiming feet of clay. No niche was sacred.

John Hancock—he of the big, bold signature which, as legend has it, he boasted could be read by King George without glasses? A lot of baloney! Hancock was simply a rich smuggler who had it in for the British.

Samuel Adams, of the eloquent speech and provocative letters? Just a broken-down Boston agitator who couldn't even afford the trip to Philadelphia or a new suit to wear until his friends passed the hat for him.

Benjamin Franklin, wise counselor and witty

Mr. Bradford is a well-known writer and business organization consultant.