491. ARMS, Device for Virginia State.—
I like the device of the first side of the seal [for Virginia] much. The second I think, is
too much crowded, nor is the design so striking.
But for God's sake what is the “Deus
nobis hæc otia facit”! It puzzles everybody
here. If my country really enjoys that otium
it is singular, as every other Colony seems
to be hard struggling. I think it was agreed
on before Dunmore's flight from Gwyn's
Island, so that it can hardly be referred to the
temporary holiday that was given you. This
device is too enigmatical. Since it puzzles
now, it will be absolutely insoluble fifty years
hence.—
To John Page.
Ford ed., ii, 70.
(Pa.,
17761776)gt;
