The Glorious Cause - Jeff Shaara [34]
The lunch was stirring in his stomach, and Franklin avoided the wine, focused instead on Howe’s words.
“You understand, of course, that this was never intended to be a meeting of British authority for the purpose of entertaining the American colonies as independent states.” Howe paused, and Franklin suddenly realized it was the most substantive thing Howe had said. “I cannot acknowledge your congress as having any authority to address the king. I had hoped that, as gentlemen all, we could ultimately devise some outline to put an end to the calamities of war. I fear you have come here expecting more than I can readily offer.”
No one spoke, and Howe seemed distressed, said, “His Majesty’s most earnest desire is to make his American subjects happy, to offer whatever reform will address their grievances. Surely, every American colonist understands that the king was only concerned with obtaining aid from his colonies, a means of assisting the royal treasury in providing protection to the colonies’ very interests.”
Franklin leaned forward, said, “My lord, we cannot muse about those issues which we know to have long passed beneath the bridge.”
Howe seemed subdued, said, “I concede to you that money is not the significant issue here. The colonies can produce more solid advantage to Great Britain by her commerce, her strength, and her men.”
Franklin laughed, and Howe seemed surprised. Franklin said, “Quite, my lord. We have a pretty considerable number of men. In time, your government may come to realize that in a way none of us here is likely to discuss.”
Howe nodded slowly, said, “It is desirable to put a stop to the destruction that will ruin England as sure as it will ruin America. Is there no way of withdrawing this claim of independence? Can we not find the means of opening a door to a full discussion of the matter?”
It was a question for all of them, and Franklin glanced at the others, said, “Your lordship is aware of the authority by which we attend this meeting. That authority speaks for itself. It is not likely, or desirable that we speak of reversing that. You have sent out troops, you have destroyed our towns. You plan even now the further destruction of our nation. That is the true voice of your king. Forgive me, your lordship, but his actions speak far louder than your lordship’s words.”
Adams had said almost nothing, stood now, and Franklin leaned back in his chair, was relieved someone else would speak. Adams moved slowly around the table, said, “Sir, congress has declared the independence of the American colonies. That declaration is not swept away because the king does not recognize it, or because his representative here finds it inconvenient to speak of it. It hardly matters to the congress if you dismiss us from legitimacy. The voice of the congress, the very energy that created the congress, comes not from a few like ourselves, but has risen from the voices and the energy of the American people. There is nothing you can do, no army, no amount of destruction can silence that voice.”
Adams sat down, and Franklin could hear his breathing, the anger still in him. He shared Adams’ spirit, had hoped that the man would state his case with that kind of fire. Rutledge rose uneasily, and Franklin knew that Rutledge would be conciliatory, the voice of moderation.
“Your lordship, I too share Mr. Adams’ resolve, and can assure you that my home, South Carolina, will not waver from the cause of independence.” Franklin was surprised, looked at Rutledge, who searched for words. “Your lordship, I had hoped to convince you that there is great benefit to England if she maintains a positive relationship with America. We can surely form an alliance that benefits us all. The farmers and merchants of my state would welcome