The full paragraph from which this quotation was taken can be be viewed below (front page quote in bold):
To John Adams
Williamsburgh, 16 May, 1777.
Matters in our part of the continent are too much in quiet to send you
news from hence. Our battalions for the continental service were some time
ago so far filled as rendered the recommendation of a draught from the
militia hardly requisite, and the more so as in this country it ever was
the most unpopular and impracticable thing that could be attempted. Our
people, even under the monarchical government, had learnt to consider it
as the last of all oppressions. I learn from our delegates that the confederation
is again on the carpet, a great and a necessary work, but I fear almost
desperate. The point of representation is what most alarms me, as I fear
the great and small colonies are bitterly determined not to cede. Will
you be so good as to collect the proposition I formerly made you in private,
and try if you can work it into some good to save our union? It was, that
any proposition might be negatived by the representatives of a majority
of the people of America, or of a majority of the colonies of America.
The former secures the larger, the latter, the smaller colonies. I have
mentioned it to many here. The good whigs, I think, will so far cede their
opinions for the sake of the Union, and others we care little for.
The journals of Congress not being printed earlier, gives more uneasiness
than I would wish ever to see produced by any act of that body, from whom
alone I know our salvation can proceed. In our Assembly, even the best
affected think it an indignity to freemen to be voted away, life and fortune,
in the dark. Our House have lately written for a manuscript copy of your
journals, not meaning to desire a communication of any thing ordered to
be kept secret. I wish the regulation of the post-office, adopted by Congress
last September, could be put in practice. It was for the travel night and
day, and to go their several stages three times a week. The speedy and
frequent communication of intelligence is really of great consequence.
So many falsehoods have been propagated that nothing now is believed unless
coming from Congress or camp. Our people, merely for want of intelligence
which they may rely on, are become lethargic and insensible of the state
they are in. Had you ever a leisure moment, I should ask a letter from
you sometimes, directed to the care of Mr. Dick, Fredericksburgh; but having
nothing to give in return, it would be a tax on your charity as well as
your time. The esteem I have for you privately, as well as for your public
importance, will always render assurances of your health and happiness
agreeable. I am, dear sir, your friend and servant.
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