So it is with the spirit of liberty. It is all inclusive, without taint of selfishness. It does not mean that _I_ shall be free to do what _I_ choose. It means that _I_ consider it vital that _all_ men shall be free and that _all_ shall enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, with due consideration for the rights and privileges of every one. The spirit found expression in the words of George Washington, when, after leading the six-year struggle of America for liberty he was urged by his officers to assume imperial authority. Indignantly rebuking his officers for an idea that he “viewed with abhorrence,” he said, in effect, “Let no man ever offer that to me.” * * * * * Today the United States is engaged in the greatest conflict in all history--not for conquest and mastery, not for territory nor advantages in commerce, not for any material gain whatever, but for the simple cause of liberty. As a national cause, liberty was first established by the United States. When America determined on its freedom in 1776, the recording hand of Fate wrote on the pages of History, where the eyes of all kings might read, “_Mene, mene, tekel, upharsin._” “You have been tried in the balance and found wanting.” The passing years have confirmed the judgment. The Divine Right of Kings is under sentence. The day of reckoning is at hand. [Illustration: W. D. Moffat EDITOR] THE BIRTHDAY OF INDEPENDENCE There are many popular misconceptions concerning the incidents attending the birth of American Liberty and the Proclamation of Independence. Erroneous traditions gained credence in the early days, and romanticists and poets have perpetuated them through successive generations. It is important, therefore, to note the facts as given by historical scholars who have made a careful study of original records, and whose evidence may, in consequence, be relied upon.