"In the various Branches of Mathematics being pretty well informed, ... I applyed myself to practise Land Surveying with Success, but my natural bent for Science encreasing, I thought my native country too unfavourable a Spot for prosecuting my enquiries with any advantage or encouragement, and accordingly resolved to adopt the well Known Maxim "Where Liberty dwells, there is my country." Here every man who acknowledges the rights of a rational being, ought to bring his mite of Knowledge or experience, to encrease the rising Glory of this happy People."