You will consider it as the capital of a great nation advancing with unexampled rapidity in arts, in commerce, in wealth, and in population, and possessing within itself those energies and resources which, if not thrown away or lamentably misdirected, will secure to it a long course of prosperity and self-government.
Adams encourages Congress to view the capital as a thriving nation with great potential for prosperity and self-governance.
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More from John Adams
The faith of society is pledged for the preservation of the rights of commercial and sea faring no less than of the other citizens.
But considering the late manifestations of her policy toward foreign nations, I deem it a duty deliberately and solemnly to declare my opinion that whether we negotiate with her or not, vigorous preparations for war will be alike…
Such circumstances call with peculiar importunity not less for a disposition to unite in all those measures on which the honor, safety, and prosperity of our country depend than for all the exertions of wisdom and firmness.
In short, commerce has made this country what it is, and it can not be destroyed or neglected without involving the people in poverty and distress.