John Adams to Daniel Stevens, June 18, 1798

Philadelphia June 18. 1798

Gentlemen

Your Address and Memorial to the President, Senate and House of Representatives, of the United States has been transmitted to me by your Chairman Mr. Stephens.

The present Period is indeed pregnant with Events, probably of the greatest importance to the Safety and Welfare of our Country. Your Sentiments and determinations are natural and highly Spirited and patriotic.

Not only the Advantages, but the Duty of Neutrality, not only the Blessings but the Justice of Peace have indeed been the Objects of great and repeated Exertions of the Executive Authority of the United States, from the Commencement of the War in Europe. Although, at the expence of infinite Patience We < , Start deletion, have hitherto , End, > have ‘till lately avoided even a Resistance to Hostilities, it is now apparent, that Integrity and forbearance will preserve Us no longer, in peace.

I cannot < , Start deletion, go over , End, > repeat the enumeration of the Insults, the Outrages, the Cruelties and Contempt with which We have been treated: nor can I describe to you that Scorn of Truth, < , Start deletion, Honour , End, > Honor, Justice and Humanity against which We have to contend. The Vengeance of Heaven in full Phials has been < , Start deletion, [. . .] , End, > and will be poured out, upon every Nation and portion of a Nation, that Submits to it.

John Adams