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is, in brief, a history of the action which has rendered the Fourth of July dear to all Americans, and the occasion of the sincerest rejoicing. But these men fully understood the seriousness of their action, and its possible consequences to themselves and their country. They knew that their mere declaration did not make the United Colonies "free and independent states." That independence, they knew, would have to be achieved by bloodshed, and the greatest personal sacrifices. Hence, Benjamin Franklin's reply to the re. mark of a fellow-congressman that they must hang together. "Yes." said he, "if we don't hang together, we shall all hang separately." For the issuance of this declaration was considered, in Great Britain, a treasonable act, and worthy of death. And after all, our great criterion, in distinguishing the patriot and the rebel, is success or failure. But the outcome justified the heroic action of the Continental Congress, although the war was waged six years longer, and at times the patriot cause seemed almost hopeless, yet triumph came at length, and by the treaty of Paris, signed in September, 1783, the Declaration of Independence became of full force and efficacy. Hence, although the pen of Jefferson produced the Declaration, it was sealed with the blood of thousands. Nay, may it not be said, that in effect the document was written with sword and bayonet, in the life-blood of patriots, and not with Jefferson's pen. And the celebration of the day should accordingly be approached not only with festivity and rejoicing, but with serious thought on how to maintain that independence, and with deep thanksgiving to the God of nations. , Willard Done. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS. Mahonri Moriancumer. Is the name of the brother of Jared known? If so, what is it, and when was it made known?