at we may be blown too far from our
course to steer safely into harbor. Perhaps, sir, we should end this
debate which seems to bid fair to wreck our unity. I move you, sir, that
we lay the Lee Resolution on the table.

ALL

No, no, bring it to a vote!
Yes, lay it on the table!
Let's vote on it now!
Have it over with! [_etc._]

HANCOCK [_sound of gavel_]

Order! Order! Do I hear a second to Dr. Franklin's motion?

VOICE

Second!

HANCOCK

You have heard the motion--are there any remarks?

RUTLEDGE

Mr. President--

HANCOCK

Mr. Rutledge of South Carolina.

RUTLEDGE

I believe, sir, with Dr. Franklin, that the debate has lasted too long;
but, sir, I am hopeful that with only a little more delay we may secure
unanimous action on the most important question which has ever been
before this body. With Dr. Franklin's permission, I suggest an
amendment, sir, that the resolution be laid upon the table until
tomorrow morning. [_murmurs and comments_]

HANCOCK

Does Dr. Franklin accept the amendment?

FRANKLIN

Mr. President, I have only one desire in this matter, and that is to see
this body united and of one mind. If in the peace of a quiet July
afternoon and the tranquillity of a night's rest we can find that bond
which will unite us and hold us together, I say, yes--I accept Mr.
Rutledge's amendment. Let us vote upon the Lee Resolution tomorrow
morning.

VOICE

But the first thing tomorrow morning!

FRANKLIN

Yes--the first thing tomorrow morning. [_murmurs of assent_]

HANCOCK [_sound of gavel_]

You have heard the motion. Are there any further remarks?

ALL

Question! Question! Question!

HANCOCK

Those favoring?

ALL

Aye--aye--aye--

HANCOCK

Contrary minded?--Carried! [_sound of gavel_]

RUTLEDGE

And now, sir, I move we adjourn until nine o'clock tomorrow morning.

VOICE

Second!

HANCOCK

Before putting Mr. Rutledge's motion to adjourn, I wish to caution all
the members to the greatest secrecy. Whatever the outcome of our
deliberation, we can only cause harm to ourselves and to our country by
divulging what has been done here. The motion to adjourn is before the
Congress. Those favoring?

ALL

Aye--aye--aye--

HANCOCK

Contrary minded?--Carried! [_sound of gavel_] Congress is adjourned
until nine o'clock tomorrow morning.

ALL [_confusion and noise_]

It can't be done!
It's useless!
We can never get them to vote with us!
We must be united!
We ca