“Sigil. Mag. Reipub.
“Confœd. Americ.”
Remarks.
The Escutcheon is composed of the Chief & Pale, the two most honorable
ordinaries: the latter represent the several States; all joined in one
solid, compact Entire, supporting a Chief, which unites the whole &
represents Congress—The Motto alludes to this Union.—The Colours or
Tinctures of the Pales are those used in the Flag of the United
States—White signifies Purity & Innocence; Red, Hardiness & Valour.
The Chief denotes Congress—Blue is the Ground of the American uniform,
and this Colour signifies Vigilance, Perseverance & Justice.
The Meaning of the Crest is obvious, as is likewise that of the Olive
Branch & Arrows.
The Escutcheon being placed on the Breast of the Eagle displayed is a
very antient Mode of bearing, & is truly imperial. The Eagle
_displayed_ is an Heraldical Figure; and, being borne in the Manner
here described, supplies the Place of Supporters & Crest. The American
States need no Supporters but their own Virtue, and the Preservation
of their Union through Congress.—The Pales in the Arms are kept
closely united by the Chief, which last likewise depends on that Union
& the Strength resulting from it, for its own Support—the Inference is
plain.