No man was exempted: our military officers were our only superiors.

I had the honor to be summoned in my turn, and attended at the State House with my musket and bayonet, my broadsword and cartridge-box, under the command of the famous Paddock." The Governor withdrew the troops and sent them to the castle: the commanding officer and some of the soldiers were arrested, and brought to trial for murder.
John Adams, the advocate and leader of the exasperated people, was solicited by the Government to act as counsel for the accused.

The people, in the heat of passion, would naturally identify the lawyer with his clients, and both with the odious cause in which they served.

John Adams did not hesitate.

His principle was fidelity to duty in all the relations of life.