Vinnie and Mandy looked in awe at the men.
They were two of the most famous figures in American history.
John Adams would become the second president of the United States.
And Paul Revere would make a famous midnight ride from Boston to Lexington.
He'd ride to warn of the first British attack in the American Revolution.
"I am told you have a message for me," said John Adams to Vinnie.
Vinnie trembled nervously as he gave him the paper.
Both men read the note and spoke in low voices.
"Thank you for delivering this.
John Hancock needs our help," said Paul Revere.
"Can I help?" asked Vinnie.
Adams patted Vinnie on the shoulder.
"You are very brave," he said.
"In a few years, we hope you can enjoy the freedom we are fighting for."
Just then, there was excitement in the street.
Vinnie and Mandy ran to a window and looked out.
A man was calling out in a loud voice as he walked down the street.
Another man was beating a drum.
People were coming out of their houses and following them.
"Who is he?" asked Mandy.
"The town crier," explained Paul Revere.
"He is announcing a town meeting."
"I think we should all attend," said John Adams.
The children followed the men out of the house.
Vinnie turned to Mandy.
"I can't believe we just met these famous people!" he said.
The townspeople gathered at a church and went inside.
The place filled up quickly as people sat on the long, wooden benches.
John Adams and Paul Revere walked to the front of the church.
Will's father had just arrived.
Vinnie, Mandy, and Will sat with him.
"Welcome," said Adams.
"We have many things to discuss.
But first, most of you know what happened this morning."
"They had no right to arrest John Hancock!" someone shouted.
"We must do something, now!" yelled another.
Vinnie and Mandy listened and watched closely.
Everyone was allowed to say what he or she felt.
"I say we should just pay the taxes," said one well-dressed man.
Angry voices burst out.
"Are you loyal to the British?" shouted an old man.
"Let's not question each other's loyalty," said a young man.
"We are all patriots!"
"Please, please!" cried John Adams, raising both arms.
The room quieted down.
"Americans believe in freedom of speech," he said.
People shouted in agreement.
"But the British have no right to treat us this way!" yelled a man in a red vest.
The room exploded in cheers.
"There will be a war soon,"
said Will's father, shaking his head.
"Maybe not, Father," said Will.
"The British might allow us to have our freedom."
Vinnie shook his head.
"Your father is right, Will.
There will be a war. Very soon."
Mandy looked all around.
The faces in the room were angry.
Everyone was ready to fight for freedom.