n section
of the country. Of several letters which he wrote on this subject, one
more elaborate than the others, was printed under the title of "Thoughts
on Government applicable to the present state of the American
Colonies."

This paper being largely circulated in Virginia as a preliminary to the
adoption of a form of government by that State, was to a certain extent
a rejoinder to that part of Paine's famous pamphlet of 'Common Sense,'
which advocated government by a single assembly. It was also designed to
controvert the aristocratic views, somewhat prevalent in Virginia, of
those who advocated a governor and senate to be elected for life. Adams'
system of policy embraced the adoption of self-government by each of the
colonies, a confederation, and treaties with foreign powers. The
adoption of this system he continued to urge with zeal and increasing
success, until finally, on May 13th, he carried a resolution through
Congress by which so much of his plan was endorsed by that body as
related to the assumption of self-government by the several colonies. A
resolution that the United States 'Are and ought to be free and
independent,' introduced by R. H. Lee under instructions from the
Virginia convention, was very warmly supported by Adams and carried,
seven States to six. Three committees, one on a Declaration of
Independence; another on Confederation; and third on Foreign Relations,
were shortly formed. Of the first and third of these committees, Adams
was a member.

The Declaration of Independence was drawn up by Jefferson, but on Adams
devolved the task of battling it through Congress in a three days'
debate, during which it underwent some curtailment. The plan of a treaty
reported by the third committee, and adopted by Congress, was drawn up
by Adams. His views did not extend beyond merely commercial treaties. He
was opposed to seeking any political connection with France, or any
military or even naval assistance from her or any foreign power. On
June 12th Congress had established a board of war and ordinance, to
consist of five members, with a secretary, clerk, etc.,--in fact, a war
department. As originally constituted, the members of this board were
taken from Congress, and the subject of this narrative was chosen its
president or chairman. This position was one of great labor and
responsibility, as the chief burden of the duties fell upon him, he
continued to hold for the next eighteen months, with the excep