Under this view of our affairs, I should hold myself guilty of a neglect of duty if I forbore to recommend that we should make every exertion to protect our commerce and to place our country in a suitable posture of defense as the only sure means of preserving both.
Adams feels a duty to recommend measures to protect commerce and national defense.
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As it must be for the interest and honor of both nations to adjust this difference with good faith, I indulge confidently the expectation that the sincere endeavors of the Government of the United States to bring it to an amicable…
The commerce of the United States is essential, if not to their existence, at least to their comfort, their growth, prosperity, and happiness.
Here and throughout our country may simple manners, pure morals, and true religion flourish forever!
May this territory be the residence of virtue and happiness!