17761972

[Adams has barged into Jefferson's room, accompanied by Franklin, to read the results of Jefferson's work on the Declaration of Independence]

John Adams:
Well, is it written yet? Well, you've had a whole week, man. Is it done? Can I SEE IT?

[with his violin bow, Jefferson picks up and hands Adams a discarded draft]

John Adams:
"There comes a time in the lives of men when it becomes necessary to advance from that subordination in which they have hitherto rem-"... This is terrible. Where's the rest of it?

[Jefferson indicates dozens of rejected drafts strewn crumpled about his floor]

John Adams:
Do you mean to say that it is not yet finished?

Thomas Jefferson:
No, sir. I mean to say that it's not yet begun.

John Adams:
Good god! A whole week! The entire earth was created in a week!

[Jefferson turns to face him]

Thomas Jefferson:
Someday, you must tell me how you did it.

John Adams:
Disgusting.