From Samuel Magaw: Dedication of Sermon of July 4, 1786, to Benjamin Franklin (unpublished)
Philadelphia, August 4, 1786.
Gentlemen,

It is with deference and esteem sufficient, perhaps, to render even intrusion excused, that I have presumed to inscribe the following little piece to so very respectable a body.

The true spirit of laws, in their principle, as well as operation, and the spirit of our religion, oppose not, but consociate with, one another. The teachers of the latter, should ever regard the faithful conservators and executors of the former, as friends to both, and pre-eminently the Ministers of God, and the Benefactors of man.

To you, under Divine Providence, the citizens of this commonwealth immediately look up for the propitious influence of wise, impartial government. They know, your object is, their firm possession and enjoyment of freedom, peace, and an expanded sweet equality. They know, you wish them to excel in virtue, in order that they may excel in character and happiness.

May the history of Pennsylvania, through the ages to come—be the history of Patriots, and of an enlightened, undivided, great, and good people!

I am, Gentlemen, Your obedient, and most dutiful servant,

Sam. Magaw.

To His Excellency Benjamin Franklin, Esq. President; And to all the Honourable Members of the Supreme Executive Council of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
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