Initial commitHEADmain

1 files changed, 18769 insertions, 0 deletions

diff --git a/75984-0.txt b/75984-0.txt
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9f4702c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/75984-0.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,18769 @@
+
+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 75984 ***
+
+
+
+
+
+                                  THE
+                                HISTORY
+                                 OF THE
+                   RISE, PROGRESS, AND ESTABLISHMENT
+                                 OF THE
+                              INDEPENDENCE
+                                 OF THE
+                       United States of America:
+                               INCLUDING
+                      AN ACCOUNT OF THE LATE WAR,
+                               AND OF THE
+                           THIRTEEN COLONIES,
+                   FROM THEIR ORIGIN TO THAT PERIOD.
+
+
+                       BY WILLIAM GORDON, _D. D._
+
+          _Quid verum *** curo, et rogo et omnis in hoc sum._
+                                  HORAT. I Ep. I Lib.
+
+                      THE THIRD AMERICAN EDITION.
+
+                                VOL. I.
+
+                              _NEW-YORK_:
+          PRINTED FOR SAMUEL CAMPBELL, NO. 124, PEARL-STREET,
+                             BY JOHN WOODS.
+                                M.DCCC.I
+
+
+
+
+                                PREFACE.
+
+
+History has been stiled, “The evidence of time—The light of truth—The
+school of virtue—The depository of events.” It is culculated for the
+purposes of showing the principles on which states and empires have
+risen to power, and errors by which they have fallen into decay, or been
+totally dissolved: and of pointing out the fatal effects of intestine
+divisions and civil wars, whether arising from the ambition, weakness,
+or inattention of princes; or from the mercenary disposition pride, and
+false policy of ministers and statesmen; or from mistaken ideas, and the
+abuse of government and liberty. It should oblige all, who have
+performed any distinguished part on the theatre of the world, to appear
+before us in their proper character; and to render an account of their
+actions at the tribunal of posterity, as models which ought to be
+followed, or as examples to be censured and avoided.
+
+The instructions that events afford, are the soul of history, which
+doubtless ought to be a true relation of real facts during the period it
+respects. An essential requisite in an historian is the knowledge of the
+truth; and, as in order to perfection, he ought to be superior to every
+temptation to disguise it: Some have said, that “he should have neither
+country, nor particular religion.” The compiler of the present history
+can assure the public, that he has paid a sacred regard to truth,
+conscious of his being answerable to a more awful tribunal than that of
+the public; and has labored to divest himself of all undue attachment to
+every person, country, religious name or profession: whenever the reader
+is inclined to pronounce him partial, let him recollect that he also is
+subject to the like human frailty. A regard to truth has often
+restrained him from the use of strong and florid expressions, that he
+might not impose upon the reader a pleasing delusion, and lead him into
+false conceptions of the events undertaken to be related.
+
+The following work is not confined to the contest between Great-Britain
+and the United States of America, but includes all the other parts of
+the war which originated from that contest.
+
+In the beginning of the first letter, the reader is acquainted with the
+reasons that produced an historacal account of the first settlers in the
+Thirteen Colonies, and of their successors, down to the close of 1771.
+The insertion of what followed to the commencement of hostilities, was
+necessary for the connecting of the two periods.
+
+The form of letters, instead of chapters, is not altogether imaginary,
+as the author, from his arrival in America in 1770, maintained a
+correspondence with gentlemen in London, Rotterdam and Paris, answering
+in general to the prefixed dates.
+
+He apprehended, that by keeping to such form, and making the narrative
+agree with the moment to which it related, and by introducing the
+various insertions necessary for the authenticating of facts, a present
+ideal existence of past events might be produced in the mind, similar to
+what is felt when a well executed historical painting is examined. The
+better to secure this point, several parts are written in the present
+tense. If the author has failed in the execution, it is hoped that the
+candid reader will admit of the good intention as an apology.
+
+He has kept, as far as he could, to a chronological order. This has
+necessarily interrupted the narrative of particular parts; which, though
+a disappointment to some, may prevent the tediousness that might
+otherwise have been felt by persons of a different taste. It may at
+least serve to prevent or correct the too frequent mistakes of ascribing
+prior events, partly or wholly to subsequent facts. The author regrets
+his not having given every European letter the immediate resemblance of
+being written to him by a correspondent. He flatters himself, that he
+has in some measure compensated for that and other defects, by the
+general contents of every letter in each volume, prefixed to the same;
+by a copious index to the whole at the end of the last; and by a set of
+maps, about which neither care nor expence has been spared to render
+them valuable.
+
+Struck with the importance of the scenes that were opening upon the
+world, in the beginning of 1776, he formed an early design of compiling
+their history, which he made known to the late commander in chief of the
+American army; and meeting with the desired encouragement from him, he
+applied himself to the procuring of the best materials, whether oral,
+written, or printed. Oral communications were minuted down while fresh
+in the memory; the written were directed immediately to himself in many
+instances, in others only imparted: the productions of the European
+press could not be received with any regularity or certainty during the
+war, but were improved as they could be obtained.
+
+The United States, in congress assembled, favored him with an inspection
+of such of their records as could with propriety be submitted to the
+perusal of a private person; and he was indulged by the late generals
+Washington, Gates, Greene, Lincoln, and Otho Williams, with a liberal
+examination of their papers, both of a public and more private nature.
+
+He had the opportunity of acquainting himself with the records of the
+first settlers in New-England; and examined those of the Massachusetts
+Bay, from their formation as a company to the close of the war,
+contained in near thirty folio manuscript volumes.
+
+Dr. Ramsay’s History of the War in Carolina, was communicated to him
+while in manuscript; and liberty was granted to make full use of it; the
+present opportunity is embraced for acknowledging the benefit received
+from it, and for returning grateful thanks to the Doctor. The Americans
+remarked, that Dodsley’s Annual Register contained the best foreign
+printed summary account of affairs: But it was not possible for writers
+on this side the Atlantic to avoid mistakes. That Register and other
+publications, have been of service to the compiler of the present work,
+who has frequently quoted from them, without varying the language,
+except for method and conciseness. He gathered from every source of
+intelligence in his power, while at the place of his residence near
+Boston; and since his return to his native country, in 1786, has
+improved the advantage arising from it.
+
+The accounts here given of American affairs, are so different in several
+respects from what have been the conceptions of many on each side the
+Atlantic, that it was necessary to insert a variety of letters, papers,
+and anecdotes, to authenticate the narrative. The publication of these,
+it is presumed, will obtain credit for such parts as could not with
+propriety be supported by the introduction of similar proofs.
+
+To write a history worthy the approbation of his friends, and (as far as
+his power extended) of the present age, and of posterity; and to
+convince mankind, that TRUTH _was his care, his search, and what his
+soul was engaged in_, have been the great objects of
+
+                                                             THE AUTHOR.
+
+_London, Oct. 28, 1788._
+
+
+
+
+                          THE GENERAL CONTENTS
+                   OF THE SEVERAL LETTERS IN VOL. I.
+
+
+                          LETTER I. P. 13–72.
+
+The rise of the Puritans and Brownists, p. 14. The Brownists flee to
+Holland; remove to America; settle at New-Plymouth; and adopt the
+congregational mode of church government, p. 17. The Puritans purchase
+and settle the Massachusetts Bay, p. 22. Connecticut and New-Haven
+colonies settled, p, 32. The settling of Providence and Rhode-Island
+colony, p. 35. New-Hampshire and the Main settled, p. 36. New-York, p.
+40. New-Jersey, p. 41. Virginia, p. 45. Maryland, p. 53. Carolina, p.
+55. Pennsylvania and Delaware counties, p. 63. Georgia, p. 70.
+
+
+                         LETTER II. P. 72–104.
+
+The New-York and Massachusetts settlements on the subject of taxation,
+p. 72. Parliamentary acts respecting the colonies, p. 75. The latter
+co-operate with the mother country, p. 77. The expedition against
+Louisburgh, in 1745, p. 81. The Ohio company, in 1749, p. 86.
+Hostilities commence in 1754, p. 89. The plan of the Albany congress for
+uniting all the colonies, p. 90. The ministerial plan, and Dr.
+Franklin’s objections to it, p. 91. General Braddock’s defeat, p. 95.
+Lord Loudon and the Massachusetts general court, p. 96. The exertions of
+the Massachusetts in the common cause, p. 97. Governor Bernard, p. 98.
+Mr. James Otis, p. 100. The Massachusetts people jealous of ministerial
+designs against their liberties, p. 101.
+
+
+                        LETTER III. P. 105–140.
+
+The Massachusetts assembly declare against parliamentary taxation, p.
+105. Appoint a committee to correspond with the several assemblies on
+the continent, p. 108. The stamp act, p. 111. It occasions a general
+discontent in the Massachusetts, p. 117. The Virginia resolves
+respecting it, p. 118. A congress meet at New-York, in 1765, p. 120.
+Riots at Boston and elsewhere on account of the stamp act, p. 121.
+Associations against its operation, p. 123. The stamp act repealed, p.
+128.
+
+
+                         LETTER IV. P. 140–204.
+
+Mr. Samuel Adams chosen a member for Boston, p. 140—as also Mr. John
+Hancock, p. 142. Compensation made to the sufferers in the time of the
+riots, p. 144. The proceedings of the Massachusetts and New-Yorka
+assemblies, p. 145. Mr. Charles Townsend’s bills for taxing the colonies
+afresh, p. 146. The New-York legislative power suspended, p. 147. A
+board of commissioners established in America, _ibid._ Non-importation
+renewed, p. 148–162. The New-England spirit of patriotism approved of at
+Philadelphia, p. 149. The Massachusetts assembly agree upon a circular
+letter to the rest of the assemblies, p. 151. The new assembly required
+to rescind the resolution which gave rise to it, p. 154—refuse, and are
+dissolved, p. 155. Mr. Hancock’s sloop Liberty seized, p. 156. Troops
+ordered to Boston, p. 161. A convention is called, and meets at Boston,
+p. 165. Troops land in the town, p. 166. The letters of the Philadelphia
+merchants to the committee at London, p. 168–178. The parliamentary
+resolutions against the Massachusetts proceedings, p. 170. The counter
+resolves of Virginia and Massachusetts, p. 171–174. Governor Bernard
+recalled, p. 182. Goods re-shipped from Boston, p. 185. The act for
+repealing the duties on glass, paper, and colours, p. 186. The soldiers
+at Boston fire upon the inhabitants, on March 5, 1770, p. 190. Captain
+Preston and the soldiers are tried, p. 193. Mr. M‘Dougall, of New-York,
+committed to jail for publishing an address to the inhabitants, p. 199.
+Massachusetts assembly and lieutenant-governor Hutchinson, p. 201.
+
+
+                         LETTER V. P. 205–213.
+
+Governor Hutchinson and the Massachusetts general court, p. 205. The
+Gaspee schooner burnt, p. 206. Mr. James Warren proposes committees of
+correspondence through the Massachusetts, p. 207. Governor Hutchinson,
+in his speech to the general court, introduces the subject of the
+supremacy of parliament, p. 212.
+
+
+                         LETTER VI. P. 214–215.
+
+An act for the better securing of his majesty’s dock-yards, ships, &c.
+p. 214. The East-India Company empowered to export their own teas, p.
+215.
+
+
+                        LETTER VII. P. 215–229.
+
+The Virginia burgesses resolve to maintain an intercourse with the
+sister colonies, p. 216. A number of letters transmitted by Dr.
+Franklin, are communicated to the Massachusetts assembly, p. 217. The
+measures pursued by the colonies to prevent the introduction of the tea
+sent by the East-India Company, p. 218. The proceedings at Boston
+relative thereto, p. 220. The tea is thrown into the water, p. 224. The
+conduct of the Massachusetts assembly respecting the judges receiving
+their support from the crown, p. 227. The sentiments of the professed
+patriots in the Massachusetts, p. 228.
+
+
+                        LETTER VIII. P. 229–236.
+
+A duel occasioned by the letters sent over by Dr. Franklin, p. 229. The
+Massachusetts petition for the removal of the governor, dismissed, p.
+230. The Boston port-bill, p. 231. The bill for regulating the
+government of the Massachusetts, p. 232—for the impartial administration
+of justice, _ibid._—for the government of the province of Quebec, p.
+235.
+
+
+                         LETTER IX. P. 237–257.
+
+Governor Gage arrives at Boston, p. 237. The measures pursued relative
+to the Boston port-bill, p. 238. The Massachusetts assembly appoint a
+committee to attend a general congress, p. 241. The measure is adopted
+by other colonies, p. 242. Boston considered as suffering in the common
+cause, p. 245. Observations on the port-bill, p. 246. General Gage
+alarmed, p. 248. The Massachusetts people prepare to defend their rights
+with the sword, p. 249. The courts of judicature suspended, p. 253. Gage
+fortifies the entrance into Boston, p. 254—seizes a quantity of powder,
+_ibid._ An assembly of delegates form the towns in Suffolk, of which
+Boston is the county town, p. 255.
+
+
+                         LETTER X. P. 258–279.
+
+The general congress meet at Philadelphia, p. 258—write to Gen. Gage, p.
+259—make a declaration of rights, _ibid._—enter into a non-importation,
+non-consumption, and non-exportation agreement, p. 261—address the
+people of Great-Britain, p. 262—their memorial to the inhabitants of
+British America, p. 263, address the king, p. 264—the Canadians, p. 266.
+Messrs. Galloway and Duane on the side of ministry, p. 267.
+Massachusetts provincial congress form and adopt measures for the
+defence of the colony, p. 263. Proceedings in Pennsylvania,
+Rhode-Island, New-Hampshire, Virginia, Maryland, & South-Carolina, p.
+275. The state of the Massachusetts colony, p. 278.
+
+
+                         LETTER XI. P. 279–304.
+
+The parliament dissolved, p. 279. His majesty’s speech to the succeeding
+new one, p. 280. Transcript from Mr. Quincy’s journal, p. 282. Lord
+Chatham’s speech, Jan. 30, 1775, p. 286—Lord Camden’s, p. 290. The
+petition of the house of commons in favour of the colonist neglected, p.
+293. Lord North proposes a joint address from both houses to the king,
+p. 296—It occasions great debates, p. 297—is protested against, p. 300.
+North’s conciliatory motion, p. 301. Opposition to the bill for
+restraining the New-England provinces from fishing on the banks of
+Newfoundland, p. 302. The Americans insulted by several in both houses
+of parliament, p. 303.
+
+
+                        LETTER XII. P. 304–319.
+
+The Massachusetts congress meet, p. 305. General Gage sends troops to
+Salem, _ibid._ A battle between the whigs and tories at New-York, March
+5, 1775, p. 307. The precautions of the Massachusetts people to supply
+themselves with military articles, and to prevent a surprise, _ibid._
+Gage sends troops to Concord, p. 310—they fire upon the militia at
+Lexington, _ibid._ The country rises, p. 311. A reinforcement of British
+sent from Boston, p. 312. The origin of the term Yankee, _ibid._ The
+royal troops obliged to retreat to Bunker’s-hill in Charlestown
+peninsula, p. 314—cross over to Boston, _ibid._—which is invested by the
+provincials on every side by land, p. 315. Gage agrees with the
+committee of the town, p. 316. Dr. Warren’s letter to him, p. 317. The
+provincials no wise prepared for a military contest with Great-Britain,
+p. 318.
+
+
+                        LETTER XIII. P. 319–326.
+
+The fishery restraining bill, and the bill for restraining the commerce
+of the colonies, p. 319. Petitions against the coercive acts, and
+counter petitions, p. 321. The city of London approaches the throne with
+an address, remonstrance, and petition, in favour of the Americans, p.
+322. The earl of Effingham resigns his regiment, p. 323. Generals Howe,
+Clinton, and Burgoyne, sail for Boston in the Cerberus, p. 324. The news
+of the Lexington engagement reaches London, p. 326.
+
+
+                        LETTER XIV. P. 327–387.
+
+The North-Carolina general assembly meet, p. 327. The effects of the
+Lexington engagement, p. 328. The expedition against Tyconderoga, p.
+332. The proceedings of the Massachusetts congress, p. 336. Transactions
+in and about Boston, p. 341. Governor Hutchinson’s letter books
+discovered, p. 344. The acts of the general congress, p. 346. George
+Washington, esq. elected commander in chief of the continental forces,
+p. 347. The battle at Breed’s-hill, erroneously called Bunker’s hill, p.
+350. A speech of the Oneida Indians, p. 360. An answer of the
+Stockbridge Indians, p. 361. The reply of the Massachusetts congress, p.
+362. The acts of the general congress, p. 363. General Washington’s
+arrival at the American camp, and the affairs of the army, p. 365. The
+acts of the general congress to the time of their adjourning, p. 369.
+Georgia accedes to the union, p. 373. The proceedings of the
+South-Carolinians, p. 376—of the North-Carolinians, p. 378—of the
+Virginians, p. 380—of the Maryland convention, p. 383. The affairs of
+Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, New-York, and other places, p. 384.
+
+
+                         LETTER XV. P. 387–431.
+
+The Thirteen United Colonies, p. 387. The proceedings of the
+South-Carolinians, p. 388. The nature of the opposition to popular
+measures in their colony, p. 389. They send troops into the settlements
+of the royalists, p. 392. The measures taken by the North-Carolinians,
+p. 393—by the Virginians, p. 394—in regard to Lord Dunmore, p. 395—his
+lordship disappointed at Norfolk, _ibid._—in his expectation of being
+joined by a considerable force under Connelly, p. 397. The orders of the
+Pennsylvania assembly to their delegates in congress, p. 398. The
+sentiments of the Jersey assembly, _ibid._ The Asia man of war fires
+upon New-York, p. 399. Governor Tryon’s influence alarms congress, p.
+400. Letters between Generals Washington and Gage, p. 404. Colonel
+Arnold’s expedition into Canada, p. 406. Dr. Churche’s correspondence
+with a British officer discovered, p. 410. Falmouth destroyed, p. 412.
+The old south meeting-house in Boston turned into a horse riding school,
+p. 413. The Massachusetts assembly resolve to fit out armed vessels, p.
+416. The steps taken to introduce independency, p. 419. Acts of
+congress, p. 422. General Montgomery is sent to Canada, p. 424—appears
+before Quebec, p. 430.
+
+
+
+
+                                  THE
+
+                     RISE, PROGRESS, AND CONCLUSION
+
+                                 OF THE
+
+                       NORTH AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
+
+
+
+
+                               LETTER I.
+
+
+                                           _Roxbury, December 28, 1771._
+
+  MY GOOD SIR,
+
+To your properly understanding the nature and origin of the uneasiness
+that has so strongly agitated the colonies of late years, and still
+exists, though now somewhat abated; and which has been occasioned by
+parliamentary taxation and the modern measures of government; you must
+be acquainted with the sentiments and history of the first settlers, no
+less than of their descendants and successors.
+
+Several of the most zealous and eminent protestants, in the reign of
+_Edward_ the VIth, opposed the popish ceremonies and habits, though
+otherwise united to their brethren in religious tenets. The opposition
+became more general and determined, after hundreds of them fled to, and
+resided in foreign parts, in order to escape the _Marian_ persecutions.
+There the sentiments of numbers, through their intercourse with
+protestants of other nations, were much changed and improved; and they
+were more than ever desirous of proceeding further in the reformation,
+than was directed by the service-book of king _Edward_.
+
+Upon the accession of _Elizabeth_, the refugees returned to _England_,
+[1558.] loaded with experience and learning, but in the utmost distress
+and poverty. Those of the clergy, who could comply with the queen’s
+establishment, were quickly preferred. The rest, after being admitted to
+preach a while, were suspended, and reduced to former indigence. Several
+were offered bishopricks, but declined the tender, on account of the
+garments, ceremonies, &c. while the necessity of the times and the
+flattering hope of obtaining hereafter an amendment in the constitution
+of the church, induced others to accept preferments, though with
+trembling.
+
+The queen affected much pomp in religion; was fond of the old popish
+ceremonies, in which she had been educated; and thought her brother,
+king _Edward_, had gone too far in demolishing ornaments.
+
+The clergy and laity, who sought after greater ecclesiastic purity, in
+vain struggled hard for the abolishment of popish ceremonies and habits;
+or, at least, leaving the use of them, in divine service, indifferent.
+They obtained nothing but the honorable nick-name of PURITANS. The queen
+proved an inflexible bigot, and would be obeyed, or punish. The
+parliament, in their first session, had very injudiciously passed the
+two acts of supremacy and uniformity, without guarding them properly;
+and by a clause in the latter, delivered up to the crown, all
+ecclesiastic jurisdiction. Men of solid learning and piety, of sober
+lives, popular preachers, professed enemies to popery and superstition,
+and of the same faith in point of doctrine, with the conformists, were
+suspended, deprived, imprisoned and ruined, for not complying with the
+use of those garments and ceremonies, which their opponents acknowledged
+to be indifferent in themselves; while the sufferers adjudged such
+compliance sinful, from their having been abused to idolatry, and
+serving as marks and badges of that religion they had renounced.
+
+All the puritans of these times were desirous of remaining in the
+church, might they be indulged as to the habits and a few ceremonies,
+though they were far from being satisfied with the hierarchy, and had
+other objections beside those for which they had been deprived. Instead
+of indulgence, their grievances were multiplied, and the penal laws were
+rigorously executed. However, the body of the conforming clergy being
+extremely illiterate and ignorant, the deprived ministers were employed
+as curates or lecturers; and received for their services, a small
+consideration from the incumbent, together with the voluntary
+contribution of the parish. By their warm and affectionate preaching,
+and eminent faithfulness, they gained the hearts of the common people,
+who were the more attached to them, the more cruelty was exercised upon
+them; and who had the utmost aversion to the popish garments, as their
+hatred to popery increased. The preachers appealed to the scriptures.
+Their hearers searched them carefully; obtained more and clearer
+discoveries of the popish superstitions; grew in their abhorrence of
+them; venerated the divine institutions; and longed to have the worship
+of the church rendered more pure and primitive. The popularity of the
+deprived ministers drew numbers from neighboring parishes. _Puritanism_
+spread and gained ground by being persecuted. Its growth was the
+greatest grief to the queen and archbishop Whitgift. But neither the
+supreme head of the church, nor the primate of all _England_, had policy
+or christianity enough to apply the proper remedy, in granting _liberty
+of conscience_. Instead of that, new acts were passed, and greater
+severities practised. Such inhuman proceedings against protestants of
+good moral characters, did not pass unnoticed. They were the subjects of
+conversation. The right of acting thus toward fellow creatures, and its
+non-agreement with the mild and benevolent principles of christianity,
+were freely canvassed. The supreme head and chief dignitaries of the
+_English_ church being such intolerable persecutors, it became a
+question, “Is she any longer a _true church_ of Christ, and are her
+ministers _true_ ministers.”
+
+At length one _Robert Brown_, descended from an ancient and honorable
+family, and nearly related to lord treasurer _Cecil_, a fiery zealot,
+travelled through the country [1586] a second time, holding forth,
+wherever he went, against _bishops_, _ecclesiastic courts_, _ordaining
+of ministers_, &c. and gathered a _separate_ congregation. The parties
+held, that the _church of_ ENGLAND was not a _true_ church; that her
+ministers were not _rightly_ ordained; that her discipline was _popish_
+and _anti-christian_; and that all her ordinances and sacraments were
+_invalid_. Therefore they would not join with her members in _any part_
+of public worship. They not only renounced communion with the _church
+of_ ENGLAND, but with _all_ other reformed churches, except they were of
+their own model.
+
+These _separatists_ were called _Brownists_, which was long afterward
+the common name for all that separated _totally_ from the church of
+_England_, even when they disowned the rigid principles of _Brown_ and
+his congregation. We must carefully distinguish the _Brownists_ from the
+_Puritans_. Most of the latter were for keeping within the pale of the
+church, apprehending it to be a _true_ church in its _doctrines_ and
+_sacraments_, though defective in _discipline_ and corrupt in
+_ceremonies_. They thought it _unlawful_ to separate; submitted to
+suspensions and deprivations; when driven out of one diocese, took
+sanctuary in another, being afraid of incurring the guilt of _schism_;
+and were the chief writers against the _Brownists_.
+
+[1593] A fresh effort was made to crush the _non-conformists_. A most
+obnoxious act was passed, for punishing all who refused to come to
+church, and every one who persuaded others to oppose the queen’s
+authority in ecclesiastic causes, or was present at any conventicle or
+meeting. The punishment was imprisonment without bail, till the
+convicted agreed to conform, and make a declaration of his conformity.
+In case the offender did not sign the declaration within three months,
+he was _to abjure the realm, and go into perpetual banishment_. If he
+departed not within the time limited, or returned afterward without the
+queen’s licence, he was _to suffer death without benefit of clergy_. By
+this act, the case of non-conformists was worse than that of felons at
+common law. The statute was levelled against the laity, no less than the
+clergy. The moderate Puritans evaded it, by going to church when prayers
+were nearly ended, and by receiving the sacrament when administered with
+some latitude. The weight of it fell upon the _Brownists_, whose
+sentiments had gained ground, so that they were increased to near twenty
+thousand, besides wives and children, according to the opinion of _Sir
+Walter Raleigh_, given in the house of commons, when the bill was read
+the second time and debated.[1]
+
+Several were _put to death_ about this period; which excited an odium
+against the bishops and high commissioners, who were universally known
+to have been at the bottom of the proceedings against them. It was
+resolved therefore to send the remainder of the imprisoned into
+banishment, instead of continuing to execute them. Others preferred a
+voluntary exile, rather than be exposed to the merciless persecutions
+that awaited them in their native country. Is it strange that these
+persons, thus forced or frightened out of it, for claiming and
+exercising the common right of human nature, that of judging for
+themselves in matters of religion, should at length think that their
+allegiance terminated with their departure; or that those who
+commiserated them, inclined to the same sentiment?
+
+The parliament, especially the lower house, perceiving how the queen,
+and many of the bishops and ecclesiastics abused their spiritual power;
+what mischiefs they brought upon the church; and the miseries to which
+honest men were reduced for mere difference in religious sentiments,
+attempted repeatedly to regulate matters, and to redress the hardships
+of the non-conformists, but was stopped by her majesty, in the most
+dictatorial manner. Some of the members, roused by such unwarrantable
+acts of sovereignty, spake boldly and freely upon the occasion, and
+censured the arbitrary proceedings of the bishops. The queen added to
+her other faults, that of sending them to the Tower. But though she
+could awe the parliament, imprison its members, and protect her favorite
+bishops, she could not overpower the consciences of the non-conformists.
+
+A number of religious people upon the borders of _Nottinghamshire_,
+_Lincolnshire_, and _Yorkshire_, having suffered persecution patiently
+for years, and searched the scriptures diligently, were at length fully
+of opinion, that the _ceremonies_ of the _English_ church were
+_unlawful_; that the lordly power of her prelates was contrary to the
+_freedom_ of the gospel; and that her offices, courts and canons, had no
+warrant in the word of God; but were _popish_. They determined therefore
+to shake off that yoke of bondage, viz. human impositions, brought into
+the church by popish policy and power, against the superior law of
+Christ, the genius of his plain religion and christian liberty. They
+resolved [1602] as the Lord’s free people, “_to join themselves by
+covenant into a church state; and, agreeable to present or future
+knowledge, to walk in all the ways of God, according to their best
+abilities, whatever it costs them_.”[2]
+
+The assembly [1606] owing to the distance of habitations, was obliged to
+form itself into two distinct religious societies; the one, with which
+is our concern, soon had for its pastor the famous Mr. _John Robinson_.
+The church kept together about a year; but being extremely harrassed by
+persecutors, concluded upon removing to _Holland_. The pious refugees
+repaired to and settled at Amsterdam; but after a while removed to
+_Leyden_; where they were highly respected, and would have been allowed
+some public favor, had it not been for fear of offending England. By
+hard and continued labor they obtained a living. The _Dutch_ employed
+them before others, for their honest and exemplary behaviour; and
+readily trusted them when in want of money. Matters, however, were not
+altogether to their mind [1617] and some of the most sensible began to
+think of another removal. It was imagined, that if a better and easier
+place of living could be had, numbers would join them. The morals of the
+Dutch were too dissolute; and they were afraid that their offspring
+would become irreligious. Beside, they had an ardent, noble, and godly
+desire, of laying a foundation for spreading the religion of _Jesus_
+over the remote regions of the earth; and of handing down to future ages
+what they thought to be, the pure and unadulterated worship of the great
+JEHOVAH. They therefore directed their views to _America_. To those who
+objected—the length and danger of the voyage, the difficulties and
+calamities to which they should be exposed, the barbarities and
+treacheries of the _Indians_, and their inability to support the
+expence—it was answered “The difficulties are not invincible, and may be
+overcome by fortitude and patience; the ends proposed are good and
+honorable; the calling lawful and urgent; the blessing of God may
+therefore be expected. We live but as exiles now, and are in a poor
+condition. The truce with the _Spaniards_ is hastening to a close.
+Nothing but preparations for war are going forward. The _Spaniards_ may
+be as cruel as the _Savages_; and famine and pestilence may be as sore
+in _Holland_ as in _America_.”
+
+After serious and solemn application to God for direction, they
+concluded on carrying the proposal of crossing the _Atlantic_ into
+execution; endeavoring to live in a distinct body by themselves, under
+the general government of the _Virginia_ company; and suing to his
+majesty, king _James_, for _full liberty and freedom of conscience_.
+
+The Virginia company were ready to give them a patent, with as ample
+privileges as they could grant; but, notwithstanding the great interest
+made by gentlemen of the first character, and by the chief secretary of
+state, the king and bishops refused to allow the refugees (though at the
+distance of 3000 miles) liberty of conscience under the royal seal. All
+they could obtain from his majesty, was a promise that he would connive
+at, and not molest them, provided they carried themselves peaceably; but
+he would not tolerate them by his public authority. Upon this occasion,
+it was wisely observed, “If his majesty’s promise is no security, a
+further confirmation will be of little value, though it has a seal as
+broad as the house floor, it will not serve the turn, for there will be
+means enough found, when wanted, to recall or reverse it; and we must
+rest herein on God’s providence.” This reasoning and the hope of being
+placed beyond the reach of ecclesiastic courts, prevailed. They resolved
+to venture; and after long attendance, much cost and labor, obtained a
+patent.
+
+They agreed that the minor part of younger and stronger men, with Mr.
+_Brewster_, an elder of the church, should go first, and that the
+pastor, Mr. _Robinson_, should remain behind with the majority, for a
+future favorable opportunity. Their enemies whispered, that the stats of
+_Holland_ were weary of their company; but the reverse was evident from
+the following occurrence, viz. the magistrates of the city, when
+reproving the _Walloons_ in open court, said, “_These_ English _have
+lived now ten years among us, and yet we never had any accusation
+against any of them, whereas your quarrels are continual_.”
+
+The colony destined for America, sailed from _Delft-Haven_ for
+_Southampton_, July 22, 1620; and there met a ship having some English
+friends on board, who proposed removing with them. Both vessels
+proceeded to sea; but returned twice into port, on account of defects in
+the one from Delft, which was dismissed. Part of the company returned to
+_London_, the remainder betook themselves to the ship, and sailed from
+_Plymouth_ the 6th of September. After many delays, difficulties and
+dangers, they made _Cape Cod_ at break of day on the 9th of November,
+and entered the harbor on the 10th. They offered up their devout and
+ardent acknowledgments to God for his protection, and had thoughts of
+landing; but remarking that they were out of the limits of their patent,
+and in a sort reduced to a state of nature; and hearing some, who came
+from London, hint, _there is now no authority over us_; they, while on
+board, formed themselves into a civil body politic, under the crown of
+_England_, for the purpose of framing “just and equal laws, ordinances,
+acts, constitutions and offices,” to which they promised “all due
+submission and obedience.” This _contract_ was subscribed by forty-one
+persons, on Saturday the 11th of November. The whole company of
+settlers, men, women, children, and servants, amounted to no more than
+one hundred and one, the exact number that left England—for one had
+died, but another was born upon the passage.
+
+Enfeebled and sickly, we now behold them at the distance of 3000 miles,
+not only from their native country, but the hospitable land where they
+lately resided for years, when unfeeling persecution drove them into a
+voluntary banishment. They have a long and dreary winter before them,
+and are upon the strange coast of an uncultivated wilderness, without a
+relation or friend to welcome their arrival, or an house to shelter
+them; without even a kind inhabitant to comfort them by tender acts of
+humanity, much less a civilized town or city, from which succour may be
+obtained on an emergency. Thus circumstanced, they are employed in
+making discoveries till the 20th of December, when they concluded upon a
+place for immediate settlement, which they afterward name
+_New-Plymouth_, in grateful remembrance of the last town they left in
+their native country.
+
+The winter proved remarkably mild[3] for the American climate, though
+excessively severe to an English constitution; and what with disorders
+brought upon them through uncommon labors and fatigues, and their being
+exposed to the rigors of the season; and what with the scurvy and other
+diseases occasioned by a tedious voyage, and the want of proper
+accommodations while making it, they buried by the end of March, 1621,
+forty-four of their little society, of whom one-and-twenty were
+subscribers to the _contract_. The number of their dead increased to
+fifty by the beginning of November, when, to their great joy a vessel
+arrived with thirty-five settlers from London. It was years before their
+plantation amounted to three hundred people; when nearly so, the council
+established at _Plymouth_, in the county of _Devon_, for the planting,
+ruling, ordering, and governing of _New-England_, in _America_, granted
+them a _patent_, [Jan. 13, 1630] by which their lands were secured
+against all English claims.—Be it noted, that they early agreed with,
+and satisfied the _Indian_ proprietors.
+
+It would have been astonishing, had not these planters brought with them
+opinions favorable to liberty. The arbitrary proceedings of _Elizabeth_
+and _James_, produced a spirit of enquiry; and induced the sufferers and
+others to canvass the equity of those powers which were so improperly
+exercised. When the film of prejudice was removed, it was easy to
+discern that tyranny, whether in church or state, could not be
+vindicated by reason or revelation; and that Heaven’s permitting it, was
+no more a countenance to that, than any other wickedness. Beside, the
+_Plymouthians_ had lived for many years among a people who had been
+engaged in a bloody war with a cruel unrelenting tyrant, whose
+sovereignty they had renounced. The frequent conversation that must have
+passed between the Dutch and English refugees, must have improved the
+attachment of the last to the cause of freedom. It might also have been
+hinted to them, that it began to be the sentiment of some English nobles
+and principal commoners, that in case of a removal to America, persons,
+without any charter from the crown, were at liberty to establish what
+form of government they pleased; and to set up a new state, as fully to
+all intents and purposes, as though they were making their first
+entrance into civil society.
+
+No wonder then, especially considering the general equality prevailing
+among them, that the _Plymouthians_, by their contract before landing,
+formed themselves into a _proper democracy_, and that it was entered in
+the _Plymouth_ records of [Nov. 15, 1636] “_Finding, that as free born
+subjects of the state of_ ENGLAND, _we hither came with all and singular
+the privileges belonging to such; in the first place we think good, that
+it be established for an act, that, according to the_ [_rights_ supposed
+to be wanting] _and due privileges of the subjects aforesaid, no
+imposition, law or ordinance, be made or imposed upon them at present or
+to come, but such as shall be made and imposed by consent, acccording to
+the free liberties of free born subjects of the state and kingdom of_
+ENGLAND, _and no otherwise_.” They meant to continue their allegiance to
+the crown; to retain their connection with the mother country; to adopt
+the general laws of England for the rule of government, wherein they
+suited; and to be governed by their own particular acts in other
+instances.
+
+Persons devoted to church authority and particular national
+establishments, may exclaim against the _Plymouthians_ for their
+religious sentiments; but a fair and brief statement of them, it is
+apprehended, will be thought the best defence that can be offered by
+those who candidly examine the _New-Testament_, and are properly
+impressed with the words of our Saviour—_My kingdom is not of this
+world_.
+
+When Mr. _Robinson_ and his associates separated from the church of
+England, they were rigid _Brownists_. After his removal to Holland, and
+there conversing with learned divines, he being a gentleman of a liberal
+mind and good disposition, became moderate, as did his people; so that
+they who continued rigid _Brownists_ would hardly hold communion with
+them. Mr. _Robinson_ and his society did not require of those who joined
+them, a renunciation of the church of England. They also acknowledged
+the other reformed churches for true and genuine; allowed their own
+members occasional communion with them in the word preached and in the
+prayers conceived by the preacher before and after sermon, but not in
+the sacraments and discipline; and admitted their members, known to them
+to be pious, to occasional communion with themselves in the sacraments.
+Still it is to be remarked, that they were not admitted because of their
+being members of such churches, but on account of their known piety;
+their belonging to and continuing in such churches, was not an argument
+for rejecting them; nor was it the argument for their reception. Mr.
+_Robinson_, however, by his conversation and writings, proved a
+principal in ruining _Brownism_; and, in the opinion of some was the
+father, of others the restorer, of the _independent_ or _congregational_
+churches. Congregational is the term used in _New-England_, the other is
+discarded, as seeming to imply too great a separation from sister
+churches.
+
+The _Plymouthians_ held, that the Bible was the sole religious code of
+protestants; and that every man had a right to judge for himself, and to
+try all doctrines by it, and to worship according to what he apprehended
+that directed. In doctrinal tenets they agreed with the articles of the
+church of England. The main difference between them and other reformed
+churches was about hierarchy. They maintained, that no particular church
+ought to consist of more persons than could worship in one congregation;
+that every man ought, in appearance, to be a true believer in Christ,
+and subject to his authority; that when there was a suitable number of
+such believers, who thought themselves bound in conscience to do it,
+they had a right to embody into a church, by some certain contract or
+covenant, expressed or implied; and that, being embodied, they were to
+choose all their officers, who were pastors or teaching elders, mere
+ruling elders, meant to assist the former, and qualified to teach
+occasionally, and deacons who were to manage the temporalities of the
+church, to take care of the poor, and to officiate at the Lord’s table,
+by providing the bread and wine, laying the cloth, carrying the
+elements, &c. [The custom of having ruling elders has now ceased.] The
+elders of both kinds were to form the presbytery of overseers and
+rulers. They also held, that no churches or church officers, had any
+power over other churches or officers, to control or impose upon them,
+all having equal rights and privileges. Their own officers were
+removable by them upon justifiable reasons; in case of capital errors,
+gross misconduct, and the like. When they baptised, they rejected the
+sign of the cross, and other ceremonies not enjoined by scripture. They
+received the elements of the Lord’s supper, in the table-posture of the
+day and place in which they lived. Excommunication they deemed to be
+wholly spiritual; and denied that the church or its officers had any
+authority to inflict temporal pains and penalties. They considered no
+days as holy, but the Lord’s day, which they observed with great
+strictness. Solemn fastings and thanksgivings, as the aspects of
+providence required, they had a pious regard to, as agreeable to both
+natural and revealed religion.
+
+A better sort of emigrants never crossed the _Atlantic_. “They were a
+plain, frugal, industrious, conscientious, and loving people; and, for
+the day in which they lived, and considering their education, possessed
+a good share of politeness. The important light in which they viewed
+morality, led them, in many instances to such critical exactness as
+would be deemed by the moderns ridiculous; from thence, however, the
+community derived substantial benefits. They have been stigmatized as
+enthusiasts; but nothing like enthusiasm is to be met with in the
+records of any of their transactions, either civil or ecclesiastic.
+Their piety indeed was eminent and fervent, but it was also rational;
+and their religion was that of the Bible, and had a proper influence
+upon their conduct.”
+
+The _Plymouthians_ having cleared the way for other sufferers to settle
+in _America_, with less difficulty and danger than what they had
+experienced; the fame of their plantation spreading through the western
+parts of _England_; and the government in church and state growing more
+and more oppressive; the territory of the _Massachusetts-Bay_ was
+purchased of the _Plymouth Council_ [1628] and a company soon formed,
+who consulted on settling a plantation, to which non-conforming
+_puritans_ might emigrate in order to enjoy their own principles in full
+security. Their sufferings had been moderated for a few years before
+_Elizabeth_’s death. The queen was far advanced in life; the next heir
+to the crown was a _presbyterian_, who had subscribed to the _Scotch_
+national covenant, and, with hands uplifted to Heaven, had pronounced,
+“The _Scotch_ kirk is the purest in the world, and the service of the
+kirk of _England_ an evil said mass in _English_, that wants nothing of
+the mass but the liftings;” he had interceded for some of the persecuted
+ministers; and the bishops were cautious of acting against a party for
+whom king _James_ had declared; but upon his ascending the throne, the
+fears of the high-churchmen and the hopes of the non-conformists were
+soon ended. It was not long before the king became in the church a
+furious persecutor of the non-conformists, and in the state as errant a
+despot as his cowardice would allow. In stigmatizing for _puritans_, all
+who stood by the laws of the land, and opposed his arbitrary government,
+though strenuous churchmen, he strengthened the cause of the _church
+puritans_; the former, called by way of distinction _state-puritans_,
+joining the latter, both together became at length the majority of the
+nation.
+
+Still the times were not mended; and the death of _James_ made way for
+their becoming much worse. King _Charles_ unfortunately took for his
+bosom-counsellor in religious affairs, bishop _Laud_, the most
+unqualified person for the purpose, of any to be found in his three
+kingdoms; he also resigned himself up to arbitrary councils.
+
+The lowering prospect thickened apace; the _Massachusetts_ company
+therefore provided a safe retreat in season. They applied immediately to
+the improvement of their purchased territory; and sent out capt. _John
+Endicott_ and others, with servants, to begin a plantation; who arrived
+at (what is now named) _Salem_. They soon after petitioned for a _royal
+charter_, hoping that their existence and powers would be thereby
+secured and promoted. They succceeded, and a charter of incorporation
+was granted, [March 4, 1629] making them a body politic, by the name of
+“The Governor and Company of the _Massachusetts-Bay_ in _New-England_,”
+with as full powers as any other corporation in the realm of _England_.
+The grant and sale of the _Plymouth Council_ was confirmed. Till the
+annual election by the company could commence, the governor,
+deputy-governor, and eighteen assistants were specified. The mode of
+governing, and of admitting freemen, was prescribed. They were empowered
+to elect and constitute such other officers as might be thought
+requisite for the managing of their affairs, and to make laws and
+ordinances, not contrary to the laws and statutes of the realm, for the
+good of the said company and the government of their lands and
+plantations, and the inhabitants thereof. They were allowed to transport
+persons, whether subjects or strangers, weapons, merchandize, &c. _any
+law to the contrary notwithstanding_—such was the dispensing power the
+king assumed. He also exempted them from paying custom or subsidy for
+seven years; the governor and company, their factors and assigns, were
+to pay neither that nor any taxes IN _New-England_ for the _same space_.
+All were freed from duties upon goods imported or exported for 21 years,
+except the old 5 per cent. custom upon imports after the expiration of
+the seven years. All his majesty’s subjects going to and inhabiting the
+company’s lands, together with their children, were to enjoy all the
+liberties of free and natural subjects within any of his dominions, the
+same as though born in England. The king could mean only, that, by
+removing to and residing in the Massachusetts, they should not forfeit
+for themselves or children the privileges of _Englishmen_, and be
+treated as foreigners; and not, that they should be governed by laws and
+officers of their own making or choosing, personally or by
+representation; for they were evidently distinguished from the governor
+and company (of whom it appears to be supposed, that they were to remain
+in England) as these were authorized to administer the oaths of
+supremacy and allegiance to all and every person or persons, who should
+hereafter go to inhabit the lands and premises of the company. Beside,
+the governor and company were entrusted with the power of making laws,
+ordinances, &c. not contrary to the laws of England; of settling the
+government and magistracy of the plantation; and its inhabitants; of
+naming all the officers; and of setting forth their several duties,
+powers and limits; and the king commanded that all such laws,
+ordinances, &c. should be published, in writing, under the common seal
+of the company, and thereupon be carefully observed and put into
+execution, according to their true meaning. The charter[4] does not once
+mention _liberty of conscience_ or _toleration_; tho’ one[5] historian
+has inadvertently advanced, that “free liberty of conscience was
+likewise granted to all who should settle in the _Massachusetts-Bay_, to
+worship God in their own way;” and another[6], “the charter granted
+toleration to all christians, except papists.” The assertions apply only
+to the charter granted by king _William_ and queen _Mary_.
+
+[April 30, 1629.] The company, in the exercise of their chartered
+powers, determined that a governor and council of twelve, residing on
+the plantations, should have the sole ordering of its affairs and
+government. They appointed Captain _Endicott_ governor, and seven
+gentlemen going from England to be counsellors, and directed how the
+other five should be elected, together with a deputy-governor and
+secratary.
+
+Messrs. _Higginson_, _Skelton_, _Bright_, _John_ and _Samuel Browne_
+were of the seven counsellors nominated by the company. The three first,
+being ministers, had declared themselves to be of one judgment, and to
+be fully agreed on the manner how to exercise their ministry. The
+company’s committee in the letter to governor _Endicott_, expressed good
+hopes on account of it; and at the same time recommended Messrs. _John_
+and _Samuel Browne_ as men who they much respected, being fully
+persuaded of their sincere affections to the good of the plantation.[7]
+The ministers and passengers coming to settle in it were episcopally
+inclined when they left England, though they could not conform to many
+ceremonies and customs, nor submit to what they judged different
+corruptions, imposed upon their consciences by the king and prelates.
+They were also strongly prejudiced against the _separatists_ in which
+class the _Plymouthians_ were numbered. But long before they arrived, or
+even sailed, a Dr. _Fuller_, a deacon of the church at Plymouth, and
+well versed in its discipline, having been sent for, on account of a
+fatal sickness which broke out among the emigrants after their arrival
+at _Salem_, had, by his conversation with Captain _Endicott_, taken off
+the ill effect of common report, and brought him to think favorably of
+the outward form of worship espoused by the _Plymouthians_. The
+influence of the doctor’s intercourse with the _Salem_ settlers cannot
+be thought to have been confined to the Captain. When the business of
+organizing a church was brought forward after the arrival of the
+consellors, the matter was frequently canvassed, and at length it was
+determined to form it, nearly upon the plan of the one at Plymouth; and
+to invite the latter to be present by their messengers, at the solemn
+ordination of the ministers Messrs. _Skelton_ and _Higginson_, [August
+6.] Notwithstanding cross winds the Plymouth messengers were time enough
+to give the right hand of fellowship, by which ceremony the two churches
+professed mutual affection and communion.
+
+Probably none of the newly arrived settlers had the least idea of such
+ecclesiastic proceedings, when they left England; but thought very
+differently. Some continued to do so; for Mr. _Bright_, disagreeing in
+judgment from the other ministers, removed to a distance before their
+ordination; and Messrs. _John_ and _Samuel Browne_, dissatisfied with
+the proceedings of the society, separated with several who were like
+minded, and set up another. Governor _Endicott_, being of a hot temper,
+and not possessed of the greatest prudence, summoned the brothers before
+him as ringleaders of a faction; and apprehending that their
+conversation and conduct would occasion divisions, sent them back to
+_England_, against their own inclination notwithstanding their being
+counsellors, thinking himself justified by his public orders.
+
+Let us return to the company in _England_.
+
+[July 28.] Mr. _Matthew Craddock_, the governor, proposed at the general
+court, that, for the advancement of the plantation, the encouragement of
+persons of worth and quality to transplant themselves and families, and
+other weighty reasons, the government of the plantation should be
+transferred to its inhabitants, and not be continued in subordination to
+the company at _London_. The matter was debated; and it was agreed, that
+the persons present should seriously consider the business against the
+next general court; it was also requested, that they would in the mean
+while, conduct with that privacy, that the affair might not be divulged.
+At a month’s end they met, and consented that the government and patent
+should be settled in _New-England_, if it could be done legally. They
+soon after received letters respecting the difference between governor
+_Endicott_ and Messrs. _John_ and _Samuel Browne_; and fearing that
+these two had in their private letters defamed the plantation, they
+opened and read a number of them, and ordered that none from Mr. _Samuel
+Browne_ should be delivered; however, upon application from the
+brothers, they directed that they should have a copy of the accusation
+sent against them from _New-England_. The company’s letter upon this
+business one to Messrs. _Skelton_ and _Higginson_, and another to
+governor _Endicott_, intimated, that there had been in the parties
+addressed a degree of intemperance; that direct or oblique espersions
+had been thrown out against the state; and that undigested counsels had
+been too suddenly put into execution. They besides expressed an
+apprehension, lest, through an ill construction, the same might make the
+company obnoxious to any adversary.[8]
+
+The difference that happened in the plantation, the treatment of the
+_Brownes_, and the reports circulated by them, undoubtedly occasioned
+much talk. Many would think it strange, that, while the charter was
+totally silent upon the head of religion, and several of the grantees
+and company though strongly opposed to the tyrannies of the
+high-churchmen, were real episcopalians; persons of this profession
+should be debarred the right of worshiping according to their own
+judgment and consience, and be even expelled the plantation. These
+occurrences most probably forwarded the plan of Mr. _Craddock_. The
+advice of learned council was ordered to be taken, and it was considered
+how to execute the projected removal without offending government.
+
+Among the other weighty reasons which induced them to remove, we must
+include the hope of getting beyond the reach of _Laud_ and the high
+commissoned court: for the Massachusetts general court declared in 1651,
+“That seeing just cause to fear the persecution of the then Bishop and
+high commission, for not conforming to the ceremonies, they thought it
+their safest course to get to this outside of the world (America) out of
+their view, and _beyond their reach_.
+
+[October 20.] The company, at a general court, proceeded to a new
+election of officers, who were to repair to and settle in _New-England_.
+They chose for governor _John Winthrop_, esq. of _Groton_, in _Suffolk_,
+a gentleman well known for his piety, liberality, wisdom and gravity.
+The business of transferring the patent and corporation, and of taking
+over new settlers, was prosecuted with vigor. The enterprise produced a
+general rumour, as its extent and magnitude, the number and principles
+of the person engaging in it, opened upon the public. The intentions of
+the parties being suspected, and jealousies arising concerning them,
+governor _Winthrop_ and other gentlemen, to remove prejudices,
+conciliate the minds of the disaffected, and recommend themselves and
+their expedition to the favourable regards of all serious christians of
+the episcopal persuasion, addressed their brethren in and of the church
+of _England_, [April 7, 1630.] and afterwards sailed from _Yarmouth_ in
+the isle of _Wight_, for _America_. The signers of the address, pray in
+the most solemn manner to be considered as their brethren, and desire it
+to be noted, that the principals and body of their company esteem it
+their honour to call the _church_ of ENGLAND their dear mother. They
+acknowledge, that such hope and part as they have obtained in the common
+salvation, they have received in her bosom, and sucked from her breasts.
+They declare themselves members of her body, and that, while they have
+breath, they shall sincerely endeavour her welfare. They pronounce
+themselves a church springing out of her own bowels. Their professions
+are made in the strongest language.[9]
+
+[June 12.] The company arrived at _Salem_; and soon were in number more
+than fifteen hundred persons from different counties in England. Thy
+applyed themselves early to the forming of churches; but, the Rev. Mr.
+_Cotton_ (who come from _Boston_ in _Lincolnshire_ to take leave of his
+departing friends at _Southampton_) having told them to advise with the
+_Plymouthians_ and to do nothing to offend them, and a precedent
+existing in the church at _Salem_, they dismissed all the peculiarities
+of episcopacy, and preferred the congregational mode in general.
+However, they had no settled plan of church-discipline till after the
+arrival of Mr. _Cotton_, [1633.] who was considerd as a kind of oracle
+in both civil and sacred matters, and gradually moulded all their church
+administrations, and thus determined the ecclesiastic constitution of
+the colony; therein verifying what Mr. _Robinson_ had judiciously
+predicted, when he said “Many of those who have both wrote and preached
+against me and my people, were they in a place where they could have
+liberty and live comfortably, should do as we do.”[10]
+
+Governor _Winthrop_ inserted in his manuscript history, a couple of
+anecdotes, of an earlier date than Mr. Cotton’s arrival, which may
+amuse you. “July 30, 1631, Mr. _Ludlow_, in digging the foundation of
+his house at _Dorchester_, found two pieces of _French_ money, one was
+coined 1596. They were in several places, above a foot within the firm
+ground.” “June 13, 1632, At _Watertown_ there was in the view of
+divers witnesses, a great combat between a mouse and snake; and after
+a long fight, the mouse prevailed and killed the snake.” The minister
+of Boston, Mr Wilson a very sincere holy man, gives this
+interpretation—“The snake is the devil, the mouse is a poor
+contemptable people whom God has brought hither, and who shall
+overcome Satan here, and dispossess him of his kingdom.” “At the same
+time he told the governor, that before he resolved to come into the
+country, he dreamed that he was here, and saw a church arise out of
+the earth, which grew up and became a marvellous goodly church.” He
+might think his dream divine; but it is easily accounted for as a
+common event, arising with the church-building out of a lively
+imagination, warmed and directed by a preponderating inclination. If,
+instead of interpreting the combat, he had only mentioned, that the
+event suggested to him such thoughts, and such an improvement, he
+would have evidenced more judgment and an equal degree of wisdom in
+seizing the happy circumstance.
+
+The colony increased apace, by frequent and numerous accessions. But “it
+appears by private letters, that the departure of so many of the best,
+both ministers and private christians, did breed sad thoughts in those
+behind of the Lord’s intention in the work, and an apprehension of some
+evil days to come upon England; yea, it began to be viewed by the
+council as a matter of state, so that warrants were sent to stay the
+ships, and to call in the patent; but, upon the petition of the
+ship-masters, alledging how beneficial the plantation was, they were
+released: Mr. Craddock, however, had strict charge to deliver in the
+pattent, and wrote to the company to send it home upon receipt of his
+letter. [July, 1634.] The governor and assistants consulted about it,
+and resolved to answer Mr. Craddock, but not to return any answer or
+excuse to the council for the present[11].”
+
+On the death of the duke of _Buckingham_, _Laud_ became the king’s prime
+minister in all affairs of both church and state; and on the death of
+Archbishop _Abbot_, he was exalted to the see of _Canterbury_. Possessed
+of such powers, he by his pliant tools _made havock of the church,
+hauling and committing to prison_ conscientious ministers and laymen who
+would not bend to his antiscriptural impositions so that the people were
+scattered abroad and passed over the _Atlantic_ into _America_. The
+daily inroads of the court on the civil rights of the subject, helped
+forward the emigration.
+
+From the beginning of the colony, until the emigration ceased through a
+change of affairs in England, [1640.] there arrived in 298 vessels about
+21200 settlers (men, women and children) or 4000 families, but they did
+not all confine themselves to the _Massachusetts_. Notwithstanding the
+numbers that repaired thither when Josselyn visited Boston, in 1638, “he
+found it rather a village than a town, there being not above 20 or 30
+houses.” These settlers were no less strenuous for their own particular
+rights and previleges than the Plymouthians. When the governor and
+company removed from _London_ to the _Massachusetts_ they renounced the
+appearance of a corporation, and assumed the form of a commonwealth,
+varying, as it suited them, from the directions of the charter. The
+change of place and circumstances prevented their keeping to it in
+certain instances, tho’ not in others; but they could easily satisfy
+themselves as to any violations; for “they apprehended themselves
+subject to no other laws or rules of government, than what arose from
+natural reason and the principles of equity, except any positive rules
+from the word of God[12].” Persons of influence among them held, that
+birth was no necessary cause of subjection; for that the subject of any
+prince or state, had a natural right to remove to any other state or
+quarter of the world, when deprived of liberty of conscience; and that
+upon such removal his subjection ceased. They called their own a
+voluntary civil subjection, arising merely from a mutual compact between
+them and the king, founded upon the charter. By this compact they
+acknowledged themselves bound; so that they could not be subject to or
+seek protection from any other prince, neither could make laws repugnant
+to those of _England_, &c. but, on the other hand, they maintained, that
+they were to be governed by laws made by themselves, and by officers of
+their own electing[13]. They meant to be independent of English
+parliaments; and therefore when their intimate friends were become
+leading members in the house of commons, and they were advised, on
+account of the great liberty to which king Charles left the parliament,
+to send over some to solicit for them, and had hopes given that they
+might obtain much, the governor and assistants, after meeting in council
+upon the occasion, “declined the motion, for this consideration, that,
+if they should put themselves under the protection of the parliament,
+they must then be subject to all such laws as they should make, or at
+least such as they might impose upon them, in which course, (though they
+should intend their good, yet) it might prove very prejudicial to
+them[14].”
+
+Whatever approbation such sentiments may meet with from the friends of
+liberty, these must regret the inconsistencies to which human nature is
+subject, in those very persons whose experience should have taught them,
+to do unto others, as they would that others should have done unto them,
+when they themselves were suffering under the relentless hand of
+arbitrary government. But, what is man! [May 18, 1631.] So early as the
+second general court after the arrival of the governor and company,
+instead of resolving to admit all the suitable and deserving, to a
+generous participation of their freedon, they passed the pernicious and
+disingenuous order, “For time to come no man shall be admitted to the
+freedom of this body politic, but such as are members of some of the
+churches, within the limits of the same[15].” They soon after concluded,
+that none but such should share in the administration of civil
+government, or have a voice in any election. Thus a powerful and
+mischievous alliance was formed between the churches and the state. The
+ascendency of the clergy was secured and much increased; for no one
+could be proposed to the church for a member, unless the minister
+allowed it. The ministers were consulted by the general court, in all
+matter of great moment; and nothing was determined in such cases,
+without a formal reference to them; who, of course, used their influence
+with the people to procure an approbation of the measures which they
+themselves had advised[16];
+
+[May, 1634.] Instead of the freemen’s appearing personally in the
+general court, they for the first time sent deputies, to the number of
+twenty-four. This was a variation from the charter which gave no power
+to admit representatives. These with the governor, deputy-governor, and
+assistants, formed the legislature of the colony, met and voted together
+in one apartment till March 1644, when it was ordained, that the
+governor and assistants, should sit apart: and thus commenced the house
+of representatives, as a distinct body.
+
+The general court assumed spiritual jurisdiction. Being church members,
+they might suppose they represented the churches no less than the
+colony. [March 8, 1636.] They would approve of no churches, after a
+certain period, unless they had the approbation of the magistrates and
+elders of most of the churches within the colony; nor would admit to
+freedom any of their members. They pressed colonial uniformity in
+religion, till they became persecutors[17]. Whatever apology may be made
+for the treatment given to episcopalians, baptists and quakers, the
+colony cannot be cleared from the charge of persecuting: that however
+will not justify those who persecute with reproaches and ill-will the
+present generation, now reprobating the intolerance of their
+forefathers, which at that period was, more or less, the stain of most
+religious parties. “It was not peculiar to the Massachusetts people to
+think themselves bound in conscience to use the sword of the civil
+magistrate to convince, or cut off heretics, so that they might not
+infect the church, or injure the public peace[18].” The true grounds of
+liberty of conscience, were not then known or embraced by many sects of
+christians. But remember, that the _Massachusetts-Bay_ now surpasses the
+mother country, in its regard for the sacred and civil rights of
+mankind. It not only exempts those of other denominations from paying to
+the support of its own colonial establishments, the congregational
+churches; and has been a great number of years in this laudable
+practice; but it protects all protestants without requiring any
+qualifying subscriptions or tests, and excludes none by partial laws
+from the exercise of civil power.
+
+The government was in divers respects absolute. Both magistrates and
+general court often judged and punished, in a summary way, without a
+jury, according to discretion, as occasions occurred. It was four years
+before it was enacted or ordered, that no trial should pass upon any for
+life or banishment, but by a jury of freemen: and within three years
+after, [1637.] that law was violated even by the general court. They
+exercised, while sitting, legislative, judicial and executive powers—a
+practice which must ever be dangerous to the rights of a people, even
+when allowed to their own annual representatives.
+
+The country at length grew uneasy at these proceedings; were suspicious
+that the general court had effected arbitrary government; and earnestly
+expected a body of laws to aid and protect them in all their just rights
+and previleges[19]. It was the more necessary to comply with the
+prevailing expectation, for the business had been long in agitation: not
+only so, but a great majority of the inhabitants were not freemen not
+being members of the congregational churches, or declining to take up
+their freedom, in order to secure an exemption from serving in civil
+offices. It was not till 1648 that the body of laws was digested and
+printed.
+
+The conduct of the colony on the one hand, and the inveteracy of the
+English administration on the other, would certainly have produced a
+revocation of the charter, and probably the ruin of the plantation, had
+not the disturbances in England prevented. It became a favorite upon the
+change that followed them; and while _Oliver Cromwell_ ruled, met with
+the utmost indulgence. From 1640 to 1660 it approached very near to an
+independent commonwealth[20]. The house of commons in a memorable
+resolve of the 10th of March 1642, passed in favour of it, gives
+_New-England_ the title of _kingdom_[21]. The commissioners for
+_New-England_, sent over by king _Charles_ II. assert in their
+narrative[22], that the colony solicited _Cromwell_ to be declared a
+free state, which is not unlikely.
+
+It has been already mentioned, that all the persons passing over to the
+_Massachusetts_ did not confine themselves to that colony.
+
+[1635.] Several families removed to _Connecticut_ river, by mutual
+agreement with their fellow emigrants that remained behind. Plantations
+were formed at _Hartford_, _Windsor_ and _Weathersfield_. The
+inhabitants being soon after fully satisfied, that they were out of the
+Massachusetts limits, and of course jurisdiction, entered into a
+combination among themselves, [1639.] became a body politic, without
+restraining the freedom of their civil government to the membership of
+their churches; and proceeded to the choice of magistrates and
+representatives. By the articles of government, it was determined that
+there should be annually two general courts; and that no person should
+be chosen governor more than once in two years. But it must be observed,
+that the same year, in which the families removed from the
+Massachusetts, Lords _Say_ and _Brooke_, with other gentlemen, having
+obtained a grant, John Winthrop, esq. was appointed governor, took
+possission of Connecticut river, and began to erect a fort (which he
+called Say-Brooke) to secure the mouth of it. He was supplied with men,
+provisions, and all things necessary by a vessel from England, sent by
+the grantees, which arrived the latter end of November. Some of the
+grantees had in contemplation to transport themselves, families and
+effects, to the territory they had obtained; but the design of
+emigrating was laid aside, when matters began to take a new turn in
+their native country; and at length the agent Mr. _Fenwick_, was
+authorized to dispose of their lands, which were purchased, in 1644, by
+the people who had removed from the Massachusetts.
+
+[1637.] Two large ships arrived at the _Massachusetts-Bay_ with
+passengers from _London_. Great pains were taken to prevail upon them to
+remain in the colony; but they hoped by removing to a considerable
+distance, to be out of the reach of a general governor, with whom the
+country was then threatened. They sent to their friends in _Connecticut_
+to purchase of the natives the lands laying between them and _Hudson’s_
+river. They laid the foundation of a flourishing colony, of which
+_New-Haven_ was the capital. They, as Connecticut, formed a government,
+much like the Massachusetts, by a voluntary agreement, without any
+charter, or commission, or authority whatsoever, from the crown or other
+powers in England. They admitted no one to any office civil or military,
+or to have a voice in any election, except he was a member of one of the
+churches in New-England. They had no jury either in civil or criminal
+cases.
+
+_Connecticut_ and _New-Haven_ continued two distinct colonies for many
+years. At length the general court of Connecticut determined to prefer
+an address and petition to Charles II. professing their subjection and
+loyalty to his majesty, and soliciting a royal charter; and John
+Winthrop, esq. who had been chosen governor, was appointed to negociate
+the affair with the king. He succeeded, and a royal charter was
+obtained, April 23, 1662, constituting the two colonies forever one body
+corporate and politic. New-Haven took the affair ill; and for some time
+declined the union. But difficulties were amicably settled at last, and
+the colonies united by agreement. [1665.]
+
+The royal charter established a pure democracy. Every power, as well
+deliberative as active, was invested in the freemen of the corporation
+or their delegates, and the colony was under no obligation to
+communicate the acts of their local legislature to the king. It was the
+same as to the _royal_ charter, granted the next year to _Rhode-Island
+and Providence Plantations_.[23]
+
+[1685.] In July various articles of high misdemeanor were exhibited
+against the governor and company of Connecticut, and orders were given
+to issue a writ of _quo warranto_ forthwith against the colony. The next
+year two writs were served by Mr. _Randolph_; and after them a third in
+December. This is taken notice of by the governor and company in their
+letter of Jan. 26, 1686–7, wherein they mention their readiness to
+submit to his majesty’s royal commands; and that, “if it be to conjoin
+them with the other colonies and provinces under Sir _Edmund Andros_, it
+would be more pleasing than to be joined with any other province.” Such
+professed submission probably prevented the _quo warranto’s_ being
+prosecuted with effect; and produced an order to Andros to accept the
+surrender of the charter and the submission of the colony. Sir Edmond
+went to _Hartford_ in October; but when at night he expected the charter
+would have been surrendered into his hands, the candle was blown out,
+and the charter withdrawn from the table, carried off and secreted by
+one of the company: whose extraordinary service was afterwards rewarded
+by the general assembly with five shillings, agreeable to the plain
+simple manners of the people. He however published in the general court
+his orders and commission which every one tacitly obeyed. He dissolved
+the former government, and assumed the administration, receiving into
+his legislative council the late governor and secretary, for the better
+carrying on the business of the colony. The subsequent revolution in
+England brought matters back, after a while to the former course; as the
+legal validity of the charter was admitted.
+
+The peopling of these three last colonies was owing chiefly to the
+_Puritan Ministers_, who, being silenced at home, repaired to
+_New-England_, that they might enjoy liberty of conscience; and drew
+after them vast numbers of their friends and favorers. They amounted to
+seventy-seven before 1641; and though all were not person of the
+greatets learning and abilities, they had a better share of each than
+most of sheir neighbouring clergy at that period; and were men of
+eminent soberiety and virtue, plain, serious, affectionate preachers,
+exactly conformable to the doctrines of the church of _England_, and
+laboured much to promate a reformation of manners in their several
+parishes.—Many planters who accompained or followed them, were gentlemen
+of considerable fortunes and of no mean education, who spent their
+estates in New-England, and were at the charge of bringing over many
+poor families, that were not able of themselves to bear the expence.[24]
+The body of laity and clergy, collectively considered, furnishes such a
+glorious constellation of characters, as would employ the pen of a
+first-rate writer to do them justice; notwithstanding what has been
+above remarked of their governmental mistake.
+
+The dangers to which the _New-England_ colonies were early exposed,
+induced them to think of confederating for their mutual safety. Articles
+were drawn up in 1638; but they were not finished and ratified till the
+seventh of September 1643; from which time we are to look upon
+_Plymouth_, _Massachusetts_, _Connecticut_ and _New-Haven_ as one body,
+in regard to all public transactions with their neighbours, though the
+private affairs of each colony were still managed by their own courts
+and magistrates.
+
+Pass we on to the settlement of the other _New-England_ colonies.
+
+Mr. _Roger Williams_, who succeeded Mr. _Skelton_, upon his decease, as
+pastor of the church at Salem, being banished from the Massachusetts,
+repaired with twelve companions to the _Narraganset_ country, [1635] and
+had land given him by the _Indian Sachem Canonicus_; of whom he
+afterwards purchased the large tract, lying between _Pawtucket_ and
+_Pawtuxet_ rivers (the great falls and the little falls, as the Indian
+names signify,) and stiled it _Providence_ “from a sense of God’s
+merciful providence to him in his distress.” The authority and power of
+_Miantonomy_, another Sachem, and his uncle _Canonicus_, awed all the
+Indians round to assist him and his few associates. When the
+determinations of the Massachusetts general court (occasioned, by what
+they called antinomian disputes) banished many, and induced others to
+leave the colony, the heads of the party were entertained in a friendly
+manner by Mr. _Williams_; [1638.] who advised them to seek a settlement
+on _Rhode-Island_, and was very instrumental in procuring it of the
+Indian Sachems.
+
+They, to the number of eighteen, incorporated themselves, and began
+settling the island. The plantations there and at Providence increased
+apace, owing to the liberel sentiments of the first settlers; and in
+1643 Mr. _Williams_ went to England as agent, and obtained [March 16,
+1644.] “a free and absolute charter of incorporation of _Providence_ and
+_Rhode-Island_ Plantations, empowering them to rule themselves, by that
+form they might voluntarily agree upon.” They agreed upon a democratic.
+Mr. _Williams_ justly claims the honor of having been the first
+legislator in the world, in its latter ages, who effectually provided
+for, and established a free, full, and absolute liberty of conscience.
+This was the chief cause that united the inhabitants of _Rhode-Island_
+and those of _Providence_, and made them one people, and one colony. The
+foundation principle on which this colony was first settled, was, that
+“_every man who submits peaceably to the civil authority, may peaceably
+worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience without
+molestation_.” When the colony was applied to in 1656 by the four
+_United Colonies_ “to join them in taking effectual methods to suppress
+the quakers, and prevent their pernicious doctrines being propagated in
+the country; the assembly returned for answer “We shall strictly adhere
+to the foundation principle on which this colony was first settled.”
+
+[July 8, 1663.] King _Charles_ II. granted an ample charter, whereby the
+colony was made a body corporate and politic, by the name of the
+_Governor and Company of the English colony of Rhode-Island and
+Providence Plantations, in New-England, in America_. The charter
+reserved only allegiance to the king without the smallest share of the
+legislative or executive powers.
+
+[1685.] A writ of _quo warranto_ was issued out against the colony,
+which was brought June 26, 1686. The assembly determined not to stand
+suit. After the revolution, they were allowed by government to resume
+their charter, no judgment having been given against it.
+
+_New-Hampshire_ and the _Main_ were settled about the same time with the
+_Massachusetts_, by different proprietors who had obtained patents, and
+whose views were to enrich themselves, by the fishing trade at sea, and
+the beaver trade ashore. Religion had little concern in the settlements;
+but it had some in the plantation of _Exeter_, on the river
+_Pascataqua_; which was began by Mr. _Wheelwright_ (a minister banished
+from the Massachusetts, on account of the antinomian dissensions with
+which the colony was convulsed) and by a number of his adherents. They
+formed themselves into a body politic. Three other distinct governments
+were also established on the branches of the said river. These
+governments, being altogether voluntary, had no security as to their
+continuance; and the several settlers were too divided in opinion to
+form any good general plan of permanent administration. Therefore the
+more considerate among them treated with the Massachusetts, about taking
+them under its protection; which fully suited the wishes of that colony,
+as it afforded the heads of it the opportunity of realizing the
+construction they had put upon a clause of this charter, by which they
+extended their line, so as to comprehend both _New-Hampshire_ and the
+_Main_. The business terminated in the incorporation of the two
+colonies, on condition that the inhabitants of each should enjoy equal
+privileges. They continued long united, and were of one heart and mind
+in civil and religious affairs.[25] When separated by the king’s
+commission for the government of _New-Hampshire_, the new assembly at
+their first meeting, in a letter of March 25, 1680, to the governor of
+the Massachusetts, to be communicated to the general court, expressed
+their full satisfaction in the past connection; grateful sense of the
+care that had been exercised over them; and of their having been well
+governed; and an unfeigned desire, that a mutual correspondence between
+them might be settled.[26]
+
+The towns in the province of _Main_, after a time, fell into a state of
+confusion. The Massachusetts took that opportunity, for encouraging the
+disposition which prevailed in many of the inhabitants to submit to
+their jurisdiction; and, to forward their compliance, granted the people
+larger privileges than were enjoyed by their own; for they were all
+freemen upon taking the oath, whereas every where else no one could be
+made free, unless he was a church member. The province was made a
+county, by the name of _Yorkshire_; and the towns sent representatives
+to the general court at _Boston_. Though the major part of the
+inhabitants were brought to consent to this regulation, great opposition
+was made by some principal persons, who severely reproached the
+Massachusetts, for using force in order to reduce the province: but the
+people experienced the benefit of it, and were contented. They continued
+in union with the Massachusetts until 1665, when a short separation
+commenced.
+
+You have now a sketch of the settlement of all _New-England_. It would
+have been far more concise, had it not been necessary, to correct the
+mistakes frequently committed, by those who publish on the subject; and
+to remove the reproaches cast upon the bulk of the inhabitants, on
+account of their religious profession. Whether there was any material
+difference between them and the other colonies, in regard to the opinion
+they entertained of their civil rights, you will be able to observe in
+the course of your reading. Their judgment in respect to the exercise of
+parliamentary powers over them, may be further known by what _Randolph_
+wrote concerning the Massachusetts, in his narrative and letters, after
+the restoration; from whence “_it seems to have been a general opinion
+that acts of parliament had no other force than what they derived from
+acts passed by the general court to establish or confirm them_.”
+
+[1676.] _Randolph_ declared, “No law is in force or esteem there, but
+such as are made by the general court; and therefore it is accounted a
+breach of their privileges, and a betraying the liberties of the
+commonwealth to urge the observation of the laws of _England_.”—“No oath
+shall be urged, or required to be taken by any person, but such oath as
+the general court hath considered, allowed and required.”—“there is no
+notice taken of the act of navigation, plantation, or any other laws
+made in _England_ for the regulation of trade.”—“All nations have free
+liberty to come into their ports, and vend their commodities without any
+restraint; in this as well as in other things, that government would
+make the world believe they are a free state, and do act in all matters
+accordingly.”—“The magistrates have continually disobeyed his majesty’s
+command in his royal letters, of 1662, 64, 65, and those of March last;
+ever reserving to themselves a power to alter, evade and disannul any
+law or command not agreeing with their humour, or the absolute authority
+of their government, acknowledging no superior.”—” He (the governor)
+freely declared to me, that the laws made by your majesty and your
+parliament obligeth them in nothing, but what consists with the interest
+of the colony; that the legislative power is and abides in them
+_solely_.[27]
+
+The _Massachusetts_ general court, in a letter to their agents,
+mentioned, that not being represented in parliament, they looked not
+upon themselves to be impeded in their trade by the acts of trade and
+navigation, and that these could not be observed by his majesty’s
+subjects in Massachusetts without invading their liberties and
+properties, until the general court made provision therein by a law,
+which they did in October. Notwithstanding such law, and a subsequent
+order, Feb. 15, 1681, “that the act of navigation and the act for the
+encouragement of trade, be published in Boston by beat of drum, and all
+clauses in said acts relating to the plantation be strictly observed.”
+_Randolph_ complained to the commissioners of the customs in England,
+because of their not being duly observed. When the people found
+themselves in danger of a _quo warranto_, they agreed upon such
+emendations of their acts of trade, as to make them accord in all things
+with the laws of England. But it was too late. A _quo warranto_ was sent
+them, and brought by _Randolph_, Nov. 3, 1683; and the next year a writ
+of _scire ficias_ was prosecuted in the court of chancery against the
+governor and company, and judgment given, that the charter should be
+annihilated. Considering the temper of _Charles_ II. it is rather matter
+of astonishment, that the sentiments and conduct of the Massachusetts
+government did not provoke him to vacate the charter much sooner.
+However mortifying, yet it would have been more prudent, to have
+declined contending with the king, when they knew that they must be
+vanquished, than virtually to bid him defiance. Such submission might
+not have saved them from the arbitrary government that followed, but
+could have been of no disservice, had there not been a subsequent
+revolution: that event taking place, it would have been extremely
+beneficial. They might have been allowed to resume their charter,
+nearly, if not wholly.
+
+Before we proceed to the southward, let it be noted, that in 1672, the
+English parliament enacted by law, “That if any vessel, which by law may
+trade in the plantations, shall take on board any enumerated
+commodities, and a bond shall not have been given with sufficient
+security to unlade them in England, there shall be rendered to his
+majesty, for sugars, tobacco, ginger, cocoa nut, indigo, logwood,
+fustic, cotton wool, the several duties mentioned in the law, to be paid
+in such places in the plantations, and to such officers as shall be
+appointed to collect the same: and for their better collection, it is
+enactad, that the whole business shall be managed, and the imposts be
+levied by officers appointed by the commissioners of the customs in
+England.” This is the first act that imposed customs on the colonies
+alone, to be regularly collected by colonial revenue officers. But the
+best affected colonies, Barbadoes, Virginia and Maryland, considering
+the laws of trade either as inconsistent with their privileges, or
+destructive to their infant commerce, hesitated to obey, or elude the
+provisions of the laws; and trafficked without restraint, wherever hope
+of gain directed their navigators. Charles II. reprimanded them, and his
+successors gave standing instructions upon the head, but without
+effect.[28]
+
+Governor _Nicholson_ of Maryland wrote to the board of trade, August 16,
+1698, “I have observed that a great many people in all these provinces
+and colonies, especially in those under proprietaries, and the two
+others under Connecticut and Rhode-Island, think that no law of England
+ought to be in force and binding to them without their own consent; for
+they foolishly say, they have no representatives sent from themselves to
+the parliament of England; and they look upon all laws made in England,
+that put any restraint upon them, to be great hardships.” These were the
+colonial sentiments two years after passing the famous declaratory act
+of Willian and Mary, which you will find mentioned below. Molyneux’s
+Case of Ireland, asserting openly the same doctrines, was first
+published in February, 1697–8.
+
+The colony of _New-York_ demands our next attention. The Dutch had
+settled, and named it the _New-Netherlands_. Charles II. resolved upon
+its conquest in 1664, and in March granted to his brother the Duke of
+York, the region extending from the western banks of Connecticut to the
+eastern shore of the _Delaware_, together with _Long-Island_, conferring
+on him the civil and military powers of government. Colonel _Nichols_
+was sent with four frigates and three hundred soldiers to effect the
+business. The Dutch governor being unable to make resistance, the
+New-Netherlands submitted to the English crown, in September, without
+any other change than of rulers. Few of the Dutch removed; and Nichols
+instantly entered upon the exercise of his power, as deputy governor of
+the duke of York, the proprietary.
+
+In July, 1673, the Dutch repossessed themselves of the province, by
+attacking it suddenly when in a defenceless state. By the peace in
+February following it was restored. The validity of the grant, while the
+Dutch were in quiet possession having been questioned, the duke of York
+thought it prudent to obtain a new one the following June, and _Edmund
+Andros_ having been appointed governor, the Dutch resigned their
+authority to him in October. Thus was New-York regained; but the
+inhabitants were again enslaved to the will of the conqueror; for, being
+admitted to no share in the legislature, they were subject to laws to
+which they had never assented.
+
+[1681.] To be relieved from a servitude that had degraded the colony,
+and now gave dissatisfaction to every one, the council, the court of
+assizes, and the corporation of New-York, concurred in soliciting the
+duke, “to permit the people to participate in the legislative power.”
+The duke, though strongly prejudiced against democratic assemblies, yet
+in expectation that the inhabitants would agree to raise money to
+discharge the public debts, and to settle such a fund for the future as
+might be sufficient for the maintenance of the government and garrison,
+informed the lieutenant-governor, in 1682, that “he intended to
+establish the same frame of government as the other plantations enjoyed,
+particularly in the choosing of an assembly.”
+
+Mr. Dongan was appointed governor in September, and instructed to call
+an assembly, to consist of a council of ten, and of a house of
+representatives, chosen by the freeholders, of the number of eighteen
+members. The assembly was empowered to make laws for the people,
+agreeable to the general jurisprudence of the state of England, which
+should be of no force, however, without the ratification of the
+proprietary. “Thus the inhabitants of New-York, after being ruled almost
+twenty years at the will of the duke’s deputies, were first admitted to
+participate in the legislative power.”
+
+[1683.] An assembly was called on governor Dongan’s arrival, which
+passed an act of general naturalization, in order to give equal
+privileges to the various kinds of people then inhabiting the province;
+together with an act “declaring the liberties of the people;” as also
+one “for defraying the requisite charges of government for a limitted
+time.” The legislature was convened once more in August 1684, when it
+explained the last act. These seem to have been the only assemblies
+called prior to the revolution.
+
+When the duke became king of England, he refused to confirm that grant
+of privileges to which, as duke, he had agreed. He established a real
+tyranny, and reduced New-York once more to the deplorable condition of a
+conquered province.
+
+_New-Jersey_, which was also taken from the _Dutch_ (who were considered
+as having no right to any of their settlements in these parts of
+America) was included in the grant to the duke of York. The duke
+disposed of it to lord _Berkely_ Sir _George Carteret_ who, being sole
+proprietors, for the better settlement of it, agreed [1664.] upon
+certain constitutions of government, so well relished, that the eastern
+parts were soon considerably peopled. One of the stipulations was, “no
+qualified person, at any time, shall be any ways molested, punished,
+disquieted, or called into question, for any difference in opinion or
+practice in matters of religious concernments, who does not acturally
+disturb the civil peace of the province; but all and every such person
+and persons, may, from time to time, and at all times, freely and fully
+have and enjoy his and their judgments and consciences in matters of
+religion, they behaving themselves peaceably and quietly, and not using
+this liberty to licentiousness, nor to the civil injury or outward
+disturbance of others; _any law, statute, or clause contained or to be
+contained, usage or custom of the realm of England, to the contrary
+thereof in any wise notwithstanding_.”[29] The lords proprietors further
+agreed, “for the better security of all the inhabitants in the
+province—That _they are not to impose_, NOR SUFFER TO BE IMPOSED, _any
+tax, custom, subsidy, tallage, assessment, or any other duty whatsoever,
+upon any colour or pretence, upon the said province and inhabitants
+thereof, other than what shall be imposed by the authority and consent
+of the general assembly_.”[30] What can more strongly express the then
+opinion of Lord _Berkely_ and Sir _George Carteret_, as to the
+parliaments having no right to tax the inhabitants of the province,
+possessed by them as lords proprietors!
+
+[1674.] Lord _Berkely_ sold his moiety of the province to _John
+Fenwick_, in trust for _Edward Byllinge_ and his assigns.—After which
+the proprietors, _E. Byllinge, William Penn, Gawen Lawrie, Nicholas
+Lucas, and Edmund Warner_, of the quaker persuasion, agreed with Sir
+_George Carteret_ [1676.] upon a division; and that his moiety should be
+called _New East-Jersey_; and theirs _New West-Jersey_. The agreement
+respecting the _not imposing or suffering to be imposed any tax, &c._
+was adopted: the other stipulation is worded somewhat differently—“No
+man, nor number of men upon earth, hath power or authority to rule over
+men’s conscience in religious matters; therefore it is consented, agreed
+and ordained, that no person or persons whatsoever, within the province,
+at any time or times hereafter, shall be any ways, upon any pretence
+whatsoever, called in question, or in the least punished or hurt, either
+in person, estate or privilege, for the sake of his opinion, judgment,
+faith or worship towards God in matters of religion; but that all and
+every such person and persons, may from time to time, and at all times,
+freely and fully have and enjoy his and their judgments, and the
+exercise of their consciences, in matters of religious worship,
+throughout all the province.”[31] It was also agreed, “that all
+elections be not determined by the common and confused way of cries and
+voices; but by putting balls into balloting boxes, to be provided for
+that purpose, for the prevention of all partiality, and whereby every
+man may freely choose according to his own judgment and honest
+intention.”[32]
+
+Soon after, many quakers resorted to _West-Jersey_ from England, and the
+country filled apace. But the people early experienced the dreadful
+effects of arbitrary power. Major _Andros_ the governor of _New-York_,
+imposed 10 per cent. on all goods imported at the _Hoar-kill_,[33] and
+demanded 5 percent. of the settlers at arrival or afterwards, though
+neither _West-Jersey_, nor the _Hoar-kill_, was legally under his
+jurisdiction. They complained of the hardship from the first, but bore
+it patiently, till about 1680, when application was made to the duke of
+York, who referred the matter to the council, where it rested for a
+considerable time, and then was reported in their favour, and the duty
+ordered to be discontinued. Among the arguments used by Messrs. _William
+Penn_, _George Hutchinson_ and others, chiefly if not all quakers, in
+the paper presented to the duke’s commissioners, were these, “Powers of
+government are expressly granted, in the cenveyance lord Berkely made
+us; for that only could have induced us to buy it; and the reason is
+plain, because to all prudent men, the government of any place is more
+inviting than the soil: for what is good land without good laws; the
+better, the worse. And if we could not assume people of an easy and
+free, and safe government, both with respect to their spiritual and
+worldly property, that is an uninterrupted liberty of conscience and an
+inviolable possession of their civil rights and freedoms, by a just and
+wise government, a mere wilderness would be no encouragement; for it
+were a madness to leave a free, good and improved country, to plant in a
+wilderness, and there adventure many thousands of pounds, to give an
+absolute title to another person to tax us at will and pleasure.”
+Natural right and human prudence oppose such doctrine all the world
+over, as says, “that people free by law, under their prince at home, are
+at his mercy in the plantations abroad.” The King’s grant to the duke of
+York, is plainly restrictive to the laws and government of England. Now,
+we humbly conceive, it is made a fundamental in our constitution, and
+government, that the king of England cannot justly take his subjects
+goods without their consent: this needs no more to be proved than a
+principal; ’tis _jus indigene_, and home-bore right, declared to be law
+by divers statutes; as in the great charter, ch. 29 and 34. Ed. III. ch.
+2; again 25 Ed. ch. 7.[34] To give up the power of making laws is to
+change the government, to sell or rather resign ourselves to the will of
+another; and that for nothing; for we buy nothing of the duke, if not
+the right of an undisturbed colonizing, with no diminution, but
+expectation of some increase of these freedoms and privileges enjoyed in
+our own country. We humbly say, that we have not lost any part of our
+liberty, by leaving our country; but we transplant to a place with
+express limitation to erect no policy contrary to the established
+government (of England) but as near as may be to it; and this variation
+is allowed but for the sake of emergencies; and that latitude bounded
+with these words, _for the good of the adventurer and planter_. This tax
+is not to be found in the duke’s conveyances, but is an after business.
+Had the planters foreseen it, they would sooner have taken up in any
+other plantation in America—[a plain intimation that no such tax was
+imposed in any other American plantation.] Beside, there is no end of
+this power; for since we are by this precedent assessed without any law,
+and thereby excluded our English right of common assent to taxes; what
+security have we of any thing we possess? We can call nothing our own,
+but are tenants at will not only for the soil, but for all our personal
+estates; we endure penury, and the sweat of our brows, to improve them
+at our own hazard only. This is to transplant from good to bad. _This
+sort of conduct has destroyed government, but never raised one to any
+true greatness._[35]
+
+The paper presented to the duke’s commissioners, evidently proves, that
+it was the opinion of these gentlemen, who were quakers, that no tax
+could be justly imposed upon the inhabitants, without their own consent
+first had, and by the authority of their own general assembly. The
+report of the council in favour of the aggrieved, and the relief that
+followed, were virtual concessions to the same purport. This will not be
+judged wholly unprecedented by those who are acquainted with what
+happened relative to the county-palatine and city of _Chester_, in the
+35th year of the reign of _Henry_ VIII. [1543.] The inhabitants
+complained in a petition to the king, that for want of knights and
+burgesses in the court of parliament, they sustained manifold damages,
+not only in their lands, goods, and bodies, but in the civil and politic
+governance and maintenance of the commonwealth of their said county; and
+that while they had been always bound by the acts and statutes of the
+said court of parliament, the same as other counties, cities, and
+boroughs, that had knights and burgesses in said court, they had often
+been touched, and grieved with acts and statutes made within the said
+court, as well derogatory unto the most ancient jurisdictions,
+liberties, and privileges of the said court-palatine, as prejudicial
+unto the commonwealth, quietness, and peace of his majesty’s subjects.
+They proposed to the king, as a remedy, that it would please his
+highness, that it be enacted, with the assent of the lords spiritual and
+temporal, and by the commons in parliament assembled, that from the end
+of the session, the county-palatine shall have two knights for the said
+county, and likewise two citizens to be burgesses for the city of
+Chester. The complaint and remedy were thought to be so just and
+reasonable, that the relief for which they prayed was granted, and they
+were admitted to send representatives to parliament, to guard their
+interests and to secure their liberties and privileges.
+
+The reasons for my passing from the Jerseys to Virginia will soon be
+obvious.
+
+_Virginia_ was the original name for all the English North-American
+continental claims, given in honor to the virgin queen, Elizabeth. King
+James, being applied to, granted letters patent to a body of gentlemen
+on the 6th of April, 1606, with powers to divide themselves into two
+distinct companies, the one consisting of London adventurers, called the
+first or southern colony of Virginia; the second or northern colony,
+composed of merchants belonging to Bristol, Plymouth and Exeter. The
+territory granted to the first or southern colony, was generally called
+_Virginia_ without any distinguishing epithet; and retained that name
+after the second or northern colony obtained the name of New-England, in
+1614.
+
+The London company applied their attention immediately to the forming of
+a settlement, and sent off a hundred and ten emigrants, who arrived on
+the coast of Virginia, April 29th, 1607: a party landed on the
+promontory, called, in honor of the prince of Wales, _Cape-Henry_;
+afterward proceeded to and took possession of a peninsula in
+James-river, and began a settement at _James-town_. The instructions
+given by the company of proprietors, when they sent out their second
+supply the following year, show that the most active projectors in
+England had for their chief objects discovery and gain, rather than
+colonization.
+
+[1609.] A new charter was obtained: many of the first nobility and
+gentry were added to the former proprietors, and were incorporared by
+the name of “The Treasurer and Company of Adventurers, of the city of
+London, for the first colony of Virginia.” To them was granted in
+absolute property the lands extending from Cape Comfort along the
+sea-coast southward 200 miles, from the same promontory 200 miles
+northward, and from the Atlantic westward to the South-sea. The company
+was empowered to make ordinances for the colony, and for those on the
+seas going thither. There was granted to the treasurer and company and
+their assigns, a freedom from all subsidies in Virginia for 21 years,
+and from all impositions on importations and exportations to and from
+England, or any other of the king’s dominions, “except only the five
+pounds in the hundred due for customs.” Little was conceded to the
+emigrants by the charter; and much conferred on the corporation. The
+colonists were to be governed by the ordinances of a corporation
+residing in England, in which they were not represented, and over the
+deliberations of which they had no control. The powers of the
+corporation were indeed controlable, as it was subject to the
+superintendance of the courts of justice within the realm, which could
+compel it to act agreeable as well to the grant, as to the laws of the
+state.
+
+The adventurers, warmed with golden dreams of great riches, soon fitted
+out nine ships, with 500 emigrants, and every necessary for the
+establishment of a permanent colony, excepting suitable encouragement to
+the settlers. Lord Delaware was appointed captain-general for life. Only
+seven vessels arrived safe.
+
+When Mr. Smith, who had governed the colony, departed for England, he
+left behind him 500 persons, of whom, what with bad management,
+dissensions, attacks from the Indians, waste of provisions, which
+occasioned a famine, &c. there remained only sixty of all ages and
+sexes, at the expiration of six months. When Sir _Thomas Gates_, the
+lieutenant-governor arrived in May, 1610, and saw the calamitous
+situation of affairs, he concluded on embarking the colonists and
+sailing for England: but before he could proceed to sea, Lord _Delaware_
+arrived with three ships, bringing abundant supplies, and carried back
+with him to James-town the feeble remains of the colony. He soon
+re-established matters; but his health obliging him, he sailed for
+England the beginning of the subsequent year, [1611.] leaving about 200
+colonists, possessed of health, plenty, and peace with their neighbours.
+After his departure they relapsed; but his successor, Sir _Thomas Dale_,
+arriving in May with more emigrants, cattle, and provision for a year,
+things were again restored. This same year the adventurers obtained a
+new charter, by which the two former were confirmed, and they had also
+granted to them all the islands situated in the ocean, within 300
+leagues of any part of the Virginia coast. The corporation was now
+considerably new modelled, and, in order to promote the effectual
+settlement of the plantation, licence was given to open lotteries in any
+part of England. The lotteries alone, which were the first ever granted
+in England, brought 29,000l. into The campany’s treasury. At length
+being considered as a national evil, they attracted the notice of
+parliament, were presented by the commons as a grievance, and in March,
+1620, suspended by an order of council.
+
+Sir _Thomas Gates_ was dispatched with six large ships, carrying 300
+colonists, 100 cattle, and useful supplies. He arrived in August: and
+parties were sent out from James-town to form distant settlements. He
+returned the beginning of 1614, and the administration devolved once
+more on Sir _Thomas Dale_, to whom the Virginians owe the introduction
+of landed property. In 1615, fifty acres of land were granted to every
+emigrant and his heirs, and the same quantity to every person imported
+by others. Dale sailed for England in the beginning of 1616, giving up
+the trust to Sir _George Yeardley_, as deputy governor, and in this year
+the cultivation of tobacco was introduced. It was originally carried
+from Tobago to England. Mr. _Argal_, a new deputy, arrived in May, 1617.
+He published a variety of edicts, and was guilty of those wrongs and
+oppressions, that the treasurer and council appointed _Yeardly_
+captain-general, and empowered him to examine into and redress
+grievances. Sir George arrived April, 1619, bringing with him several
+instructions favourable to freedom, and soon declared his intention of
+calling a general assembly, which gave the greatest joy to men, who had
+been hitherto subjected to the arbitrary orders of their prince, to the
+interested ordinances of an English corporation, or to the edicts of a
+haughty governor; and who enjoyed none of those liberties which
+Englishmen claim as their birth-right.
+
+In June, Yeardley, pursuant to his instructions from the company, issued
+writs for the election of delegates, called burgesses. The colony had
+been divided into seven hundreds or distinct settlements, which seemed
+to enjoy some of the privileges of boroughs, and from this circumstance
+the democratic branch of the assembly has been called to this day the
+house of burgesses, though composed almost entirely of the
+representatives of counties. The assembly, formed of the governor and
+council of state, who were appointed by the treasurer and company, and
+of the burgesses chosen by the people, met together in one apartment,
+and transacted affairs like the parliament of Scotland of old, which
+mode continued till after the restoration of Charles II. Thus convened,
+and thus composed, the legislature “debated all matters thought
+expedient for the good of the whole.” The laws were transmitted to
+England, for the approbation of the treasurer and company, without whose
+confirmation they were of no validity. The introduction of an assembly
+was attended with the happiest effects. The emigrants, for the first
+time, resolved to settle themselves, and to perpetuate the plantation.
+The assembly thanked the company for their favour, and begged them “to
+reduce into a compendious form, with his majesty’s approbation, the laws
+of England proper for Virginia, with suitable additions;” giving as a
+reason, “that it was not fit that his subjects should be governed by any
+other rules, than such as received their influence from him.” This year
+the treasurer and council received a letter, “commanding them to send a
+hundred dissolute persons (convicts) to Virginia.” They were accordingly
+transported; and were at that period very acceptable to the colonies,”
+though the unlimited practice of emptying the English jails on the
+American continent has of late years been complained of as a nuisance.
+[1602.] The subsequent year must, on account of the introduction of
+_African slaves_ into the colonies, be stigmatized as a much viler
+æra.—The Hollanders were not then precluded by any law from trading with
+the colonies. A Dutch vessel carried to Virginia a cargo of negroes, and
+the Virginians, who had themselves just emerged from a state of slavery,
+became chargeable with reducing their fellow men to the condition of
+brutes.
+
+[1621.] In July, the treasurer and company carried into execution a
+resolution formerly taken, for establishing a proper constitution for
+the colony. The ordinance they passed, declared that there should be two
+supreme councils in Virginia, the one to be called the council of state,
+to be appointed and displaced by the treasurer and company, and which
+was to advise the governor in governmental affairs; the other was to be
+denominated the general assembly, and to consist of the governor and
+council, and of two burgesses, to be chosen, for the present, by the
+inhabitants of every town, hundred, and settlement in the colony. The
+assembly was to determine by the majority of the voices then present,
+and to enact general laws for the colony, reserving to the governor a
+negative voice. They were to imitate the laws and customs, and judicial
+proceedings used in England. “No acts were to be in force till confirmed
+by the general court in England: on the other hand, no order of the
+general court was to bind the colony, till assented to by the assembly.”
+The company having offered territory to those who should either emigrate
+themselves, or engage to transport people to the colony, found this
+policy so successful, that upward of 3500 persons emigrated to Virginia
+during this and the two preceding years.
+
+[1622.] This year was remarkable for a massacre of the colonists by the
+_Indians_, which was executed with the utmost subtilty, and without any
+regard to age, sex, or dignity. A well concerted attack on all the
+settlements, destroyed, in one hour, and almost at the same instant, 347
+persons, who were defenceless and incapable of making resistance. The
+emigrants, notwithstanding the orders they had received, had never been
+solicitous to cultivate the good-will of the natives, and had neither
+asked permission when they occupied their country, nor given a price for
+their valuable property, which was violently taken away. The miseries of
+famine were soon superadded to the horrors of massacre. Of eighty
+plantations, which were filling apace, only eight remained; and of the
+numbers which had been transported thither, no more than about 1800
+survived those manifold disasters.
+
+Frequent complaints having been made to king James of the oppressions of
+the treasurer and company, and the before-mentioned calamities being
+attributed to their misconduct or neglect, it was determined that a
+commission should issue to enquire into the affairs of Virginia and the
+Somer-isles, from the earliest settlement of each. Upon the report of
+the commissioners, the king concluded on giving a new charter, and
+required of the company the surrender of former grants, which being
+refused, a writ of _quo warranto_ issued in November, 1623, against the
+patents of the corporation; and judgment was given by the court of
+king’s-bench against the treasurer and company, in Trinity-term, 1624.
+These proceedings “were so conformable to the general strain of the
+arbitrary administration of that reign, that they made little impression
+at the time, though the Virginia company was composed of persons of the
+first quality, wealth, and consequence in the nation.” The company
+probably would not have exercised so tame and submissive a spirit, had
+they not been wholly disappointed in their visionary prospects, and met
+with considerable losses, instead of acquiring enormous profits. They
+had obtained from individuals, who sported in their lotteries from the
+hope of sudden riches, £. 29,000. but the transportation of more than
+9000 English subjects, had cost them £.150,000. They did not, however,
+abandon the colony in its distress, while they continued a corporation.
+Timely supplies were sent from England to the Virginia settlers, which
+so animated them, that they carried on an offensive war against the
+Indians, pursued them into their fastnesses, and drove them from the
+neighbourhood of those rivers where they had fixed their own
+plantations.
+
+As to king _James_, he “assuredly considered the colonies as acquired by
+conquest; and that they ought to be holden of his person, independent of
+his crown or political capacity; and might be ruled according to his
+good will, by prerogative; and he endeavored, agreeable to the strange
+œconomy of his reign, to convert them into a mere private estate,
+descendable to his personal heirs.”[36]
+
+The Virginia company being dissolved, James took the colony under his
+immediate dependence, which occasioned much confusion. Upon his death,
+king _Charles_ [1625.] being of the same judgment with his father as to
+the government of Virginia, determined to tread in the same steps. In
+May he named a new governor and council for Virginia, and invested them
+with an authority fully legislative and arbitrary. They were empowered
+to make and execute laws, to impose taxes, and enforce payment. Neither
+the commission nor instructions mentioned expressly, or even alluded to
+an assembly, to the laws of England, or to the acts of the provincial
+legislature, as a rule of government. They were required to transport
+colonists into England, to be punished there for crimes committed in
+Virginia. This system increased the colonial dissatisfaction, which
+continued for years, till the Virginians received a letter containing
+the royal assurance, that “all their estates, trade, freedom, and
+privileges, should be enjoyed by them in as extensive a manner as they
+enjoyed them before the recalling of the company’s patent.” On this they
+were reconciled, and began again to exert themselves in making
+improvements.[37]
+
+Being left for some years in a manner to themselves, they increased
+beyond expectation. They remained under the administration of their
+governors and other officers, who respected their privileges because
+they loved the colony. The governor whom Charles had been anxious to
+appoint, had no opportunity of exercising those illegal and
+extraordinary powers with which he had been invested. His death in 1627,
+put an end to his authority, and prevented the colony’s feeling its full
+extent. His successor, _John Harvey_, esq. was nominated in March 1629;
+and his commission and instructions were precisely the same with those
+of the former. He departed soon after for Virginia. The spirit of his
+administration was an exact counterpart of what had too long prevailed
+in England. He was severe in his extortions, proud in his councils,
+unjust and arbitrary in every department of his government. The
+_Virginians_, roused almost to madness by oppression, seized and sent
+him prisoner to England, accompanied with two deputies, to represent
+their grievances and his misconduct. His behaviour was so thought of,
+that he was honored with a new commission which confirmed former powers,
+and he was sent back to Virginia in April, 1637. After that, his
+government was so excessively oppressive and cruel, that the complaints
+of the colonists became at length too loud to be longer neglected, and
+his commission was revoked in January, 16389—. During his ten years
+administration, the Virginians were ruled rather as the vassels of an
+eastern despot, than as subjects entitled to English liberties; but it
+is to their credit, that, having tasted the sweets of a simple
+government, they opposed with a firm spirit, during the reign of
+Charles, the attempts of those who endeavoured to revive the patents,
+and to restore the corporation.
+
+Sir _William Berkely_ was appointed governor the beginning of 1639. His
+instructions evidenced a prodigious change in colonial policy, which
+must be partly ascribed to the then state of affairs in England. He was
+directed to summon all the burgesses of the plantations; who with the
+governor and council were to constitute the grand assembly, with power
+to make acts for the government of the colony, as near as might be to
+the laws of England—to cause speedy justice to be administered to all,
+according to English forms—and to forbid all trade with foreign vessels
+except upon necessity. Thus were the Virginians restored to that system
+of freedom which they had derived from the Virginia company, and which
+the writ of _quo warranto_ had involved in the same ruin with the
+corporation itself.
+
+Civil dissentions however took place, which were embittered by religious
+differences, and inflamed by acts made to prohibit the preaching of the
+doctrines of the puritans. The discontented party presented a petition
+to the house of commons, in the name of the assembly, “praying for the
+restoration of the antient patents and corporation government.” But the
+governor, council and burgesses, no sooner heard of the transaction,
+than they transmitted an explicit disavowal of it. They sent also an
+address to king _Charles_ acknowledging his bounty and favor toward
+them, and earnestly desiring to continue under his immediate protection.
+In 1642, they declared in the form of an act, “that they were born under
+monarchy, and would never degenerate from the condition of their births,
+by being subjects to any other government.” Nothing could be more
+acceptable than this act, which being presented to the king at _York_,
+drew from him an answer, in which he gave them the fullest assurances,
+that they always should be immediately dependent upon the crown, and
+that the form of government should never be changed.
+
+They remained unalterably attached to the cause of their sovereign. But
+when the commons of England had triumphed over their European opponents,
+their attention was turned to the plantations; and an ordinance was
+passed in October, 1650, “for prohibiting trade with _Barbadoes_,
+_Virginia_, _Bermuda_, and _Antego_.” It recited, that “in Virginia, and
+other places in America, their are colonies, which were planted at the
+cost, and settled by the people, and by the authority of this nation,
+which ought to be subordinate to, and depend upon England—that they ever
+had been, and ought to be subject to such laws and regulations, as are,
+or shall be made by the parliament—that divers acts of rebellion have
+been committed by many persons inhabiting Virginia, whereby they have
+set up themselves in opposition to the commonwealth” It therefore
+declared them “notorious robbers and traitors.” Persons in power
+generally reason alike against those who oppose their authority, and
+dispute the legality or equity of their measures, whatever might be
+their own sentiments when in a lower station, and while aggrieved by
+superiors. The ordinance authorised the council of state to send a fleet
+thither, and to grant commissions to proper persons to enforce to
+obedience all such as stood opposed to the authority of parliament. In
+consequence hereof commissioners were appointed, and a powerful fleet
+and army detached, to reduce all their enemies to submission. They were
+to use their endeavors, by granting pardons and by other peaceful arts,
+to induce the colonists to obey the state of England; but, if these
+means should prove ineffectual, then they were to employ every act of
+hostility; to free those servants and slaves of masters opposing the
+government, that would serve as soldiers to subdue them; and to cause
+the acts of parliament to be executed, and justice to be administered,
+in the name of the commonwealth. After the arrival of the commissioners
+with the naval and military force, the Virginians refused to submit,
+till articles of surrender had been agreed upon, by which it was
+stipulated, “The plantation of Virginia, and all the inhabitants
+thereof, shall enjoy such freedoms and privileges as belong to the free
+people of England. The general assembly, as formerly, shall convene and
+transact the affairs of the colony. The people of Virginia shall have a
+free trade, as the people of England, to all places, and with all
+nations.” Virginia shall be free from all taxes, customs, and
+impositions whatsoever; and none shall be imposed on them without
+consent of the general assembly; and neither forts nor castles shall be
+erected, nor garrisons maintained without their consent.”[38]
+
+The hardships the _Virginians_ experienced from restrictions on their
+trade under _Oliver Cromwell_, together with their attachment to the
+royal family, induced them to seize the occasion of the death of the
+protector’s governor, for applying to Sir _William Berkely_, who had
+lived privately during the revolutions of the day, to resume the
+government of the colony, to which he consented, on their solemnly
+promising to venture their lives and fortunes with him for Charles II.
+Before they had heard of the death of Cromwell, _Charles_ was proclaimed
+by them king of England, Scotland, Ireland, and Virginia. During the
+distresses to which the royalists were exposed in England prior to this
+event, they resorted to that colony, so that Virginia contained about
+30,000 persons at the restoration. Sir William Berkely, in his answer to
+the enquiries of the lords of the committee of the colonies, writes,
+June 20, 1671, “there are 40,000 persons, men, women, and children, 2000
+black slaves, and 6000 christian servants for a short time.” You will
+not have your good opinion heightened of him for his adding—“I thank God
+there are no free schools, nor printing, and I hope we shall not have
+them these hundred years. For learning has brought disobedience, and
+heresy, and sects into the world, and printing has divulged them and
+libels against the government. God keep us from both!”[39]
+
+You will remark, that, however zealous the Virginians were to honor the
+Charles’s with their loyalty, they boldly declined complimenting king,
+commonwealth, and protector with their liberties.
+
+_Maryland_ comes now to be considered.
+
+Sir _George Calvert_ was one of the original associates in the great
+Virginia company, and continued a member of that corporation during its
+existance: and, as secretary of state, he acted as one of the committee
+of council for the affairs of the plantations while James I. lived. Sir
+George in his reign, having thought proper to alter his religious
+sentiments and embrace popery, ingenuously avowed the change. The king
+pleased with his sincerity, granted him a part of _Newfoundland_, which
+the French at length obliged him to abandon. His majesty further
+testified his regard, by creating him Lord Baltimore of Ireland. King
+_Charles_, to compensate for his loss of the Newfoundland territory,
+gave him a grant of the country on the north side of the
+_Chesapeak-bay_.
+
+His Lordship died April 15, 1632, before the patent was made out; on
+which his son Cecil took it out in his own name the June following.
+Charles, in honor to his royal consort Henrietta Maria, named the colony
+Maryland; and, being desirous of gratifying the proprietary all in his
+power invested him with as much sovereignty as could well consist with
+an immediate subjection to the crown of England. His Lordship, with the
+assent of the freemen, or their delegates, whom he was required to
+assemble for that purpose, might make laws of what kind soever for the
+province, so that they were not repugnant, but agreeable to the
+jurisprudence and rights of the realm of England; and he was authorised
+to execute the acts of the assembly. There was no clause in the charter
+obliging him to transmit their acts to the king for approbation or
+dissent: nor any saving of the royal interference in the government of
+the colony. Charles reserved to himself and his heirs forever, imposts,
+duties, and customs, which the colonies were bound to pay; but declared
+in the same charter, “We, our heirs and successors, shall at no time set
+and make, or cause to be set, any imposition, custom, or taxation on the
+inhabitants of the province, for their lands, goods, tenements, or
+chattels whithin the said province.” By this clause the king covenanted
+for himself, heirs and successors, that having reserved for ever the
+imposts, duties, and customs, he would not contribute toward setting
+upon the inhabitants any imposition, custom, or taxation, for their
+lands, goods, tenaments, or chattels, within the said province; and
+therein bound both himself and them, not to assent to any bill
+subjecting the inhabitants to an internal taxation by an external
+legislation.
+
+The first emigration consisted of two hundred gentlemen of considerable
+fortune and rank, with their adherents, chiefly Roman Catholics, who
+hoped to enjoy liberty of conscience, under a proprietary of their own
+profession. They sailed from England in November, and landed in Maryland
+the beginning of 1633. Governor _Colvert_, brother to lord Baltimore,
+very wisely and justly purchased, by presents of various goods, the
+rights of the Indians, and with their free consent took possession of
+their town, which he called St. Mary’s. The country was settled with so
+much ease, and furnished with so many conveniences, that emigrants
+repaired thither in such numbers, that the colony soon became popular
+and flourishing. A third assembly of freemen was held at St. John’s in
+February, 1638–9, when an act was passed “for establishing the house of
+assembly.” It inacted that those who shall be elected pursuant to writs
+issued, shall be called burgesses, and shall supply the place of the
+freemen who chose them—that the gentlemen summoned by the special writ
+of the proprietary, and those freemen who shall not have voted at any of
+the elections, together with the governor and secretary, shall be called
+“the house of assembly”—that all acts assented to by that body, shall be
+deemed of the same force, as if the proprietary and freemen had been
+personly present. Slavery seems to have gained an early establishment in
+Maryland, for an act of this assembly describes “the people” to consist
+of all christian inhabitants “slaves only excepted.” The persecuting
+laws which were passed by the Viginians, soon after this period against
+the puritans, made the latter emigrate in considerable numbers to
+Maryland, that they might enjoy, under a popish proprietary, that
+liberty of conscience, of which they were deprived by fellow
+protestants.
+
+In 1642, the burgesses “desired that they might be separated, and sit by
+themselves, and have a negative,”—such was their progress in
+entertaining just conceptions of their own democratic rights. The
+governor did not grant their request; but they were afterwards more
+successful. The assembly of 1649, was assuredly divided into two parts,
+and transacted business in the form of an upper and lower house. That
+assembly, which convened in April, enacted, that no persons professing
+to believe in Jesus Christ, shall be molested in respect of their
+religion, or in the exercise thereof, or be compelled to the belief or
+exercise of any other religion against their consent, so that they be
+not unfaithful to the proprietary, or conspire against the civil
+government—that those reproaching any with opprobrious names of
+religious distinction, shall forfeit ten shillings to the persons
+injured—that any one speaking reproachfully against the blessed Virgin,
+or the Apostles, shall forfeit five pounds—but blasphemy against God,
+shall be punished with death.
+
+In 1650, a law was passed “for settling this present assembly.” It
+enacted, that those who were called by special writ shall form the upper
+house—that those who were chosen by the hundreds shall compose the lower
+house—and that all bills which shall be assented to by the two branches
+of the legislature thus established, and assented to by the governor,
+shall be deemed the laws of the province, and have the same effect as if
+the freemen were personally present. There was also passed “an act
+against raising money without the consent of the assembly.” It
+mentioned, “That no taxes shall be assessed or levied on the freemen of
+the province, without their own consent, or that of their deputies,
+first declared in a general assembly. The printed words and early date
+of this Maryland act demand particular notice. The act of the general
+assembly and governor were of the same force in their own province, as
+acts of parliament in England; and could not be repealed without the
+concurring assent of the proprietary, or his deputy, with the other two
+estates.
+
+_Carolina_ follows Maryland in the order of existence.
+
+A few adventurers emigrated from the Massachusetts, and settled round
+_Cape Fear_, about the time of the restoration. They considered mere
+occupancy, with a transfer from the natives, without any grant from the
+king, as a good title to the lands which they possessed. They deemed
+themselves entitled to the same “civil privileges” as those of the
+country from whence they had emigrated. For years they experienced the
+complicated miseries of want. They solicited the aid of their
+countrymen; and the general court, with an attention and humanity which
+did it the greatest honor, ordered an extensive contribution for their
+relief. But the final settlement of the province was effected equally
+through the rapacity of the courtiers of Charles the II. and his own
+facility in rewarding those to whom he was greatly indebted, with a
+liberality that cost him little. The pretence which had been used on
+former occasions, of a pious zeal for the propagation of the gospel
+among the Indians, was successfully employed to procure a grant of the
+immense region lying between the 36° of north latitude and the river St.
+Matheo, under the 31°. March 24, 1663, this territory was erected into a
+province, by the name of _Carolina_, and conferred on lord _Clarendon_,
+the duke of _Albemarle_, lord _Craven_, lord _Berkely_, lord _Ashley_,
+Sir _George Carteret_, Sir _John Colleton_, and Sir _William Berkely_,
+as absolute lords proprietaris for ever, saving the sovereign allegience
+due to the crown. The charter seems to have been copied from that of
+Maryland, so extensive in its powers, and so noble in its privileges.
+The noblemen held their first meeting in May; and at the desire of the
+New-England people abovementioned, published proposals to all that would
+plant in Carolina. They declared, that all persons settling on Charles
+River, to the southward of Cape Fear, should have power to fortify its
+banks, taking the oath of allegiance to the king, and submitting to the
+government of the proprietaries—that the emigrants might present to them
+thirteen persons, in order that they might appoint a governor and a
+council of six for three years—that an assembly, composed of the
+governor, the council, and delegates of the freemen, should be called as
+soon as circumstances would allow, with power to make laws, not contrary
+to those of England, nor of any validity after the publication of the
+dissent of the proprietaries—that every one should enjoy the most
+perfect freedom in religion—that during five years, every freeman should
+be allowed one hundred acres of land, and fifty for every servant,
+paying only an half-penny an acre—and that the same freedom from customs
+which had been confirmed by the royal charter, should be allowed to
+every one.
+
+The proprietaries appointed Sir _William Berkely_, then governor of
+Virginia, general superintendant of the affairs of the county of
+Albemarle, within the boundaries of which, a small plantation, of the
+New-Englanders probably, had been established for some years, on the
+north eastern shores of the river Chowan. Sir William Berkely repaired
+to the county, confirmed and granted lands on the conditions
+beforementioned, appointed Mr. Drummond the first governor, and likewise
+other officers, and then returned to Virginia.
+
+The assembly of 1666, being dissatisfied with the tenures by which they
+held their lands, petitioned the proprietaries, that the people of
+Albemarle might hold their possessions on the same terms on which the
+Virginians enjoyed theirs, and were gratified.
+
+[1665.] The proprietaries appointed _John Yeamans_, a respectable
+planter of Barbadoes, commander in chief of Clarendon county, stretching
+from Cape Fear to the river St. Matheo; and he was at the same time
+created a baronet. To secure its prosperity, the same powers were
+conferred, and the same constitution established, as those which had
+made Albemarle happy.
+
+A settlement was also now projected to the southward of Cape Romain,
+which acquired the name of Carteret. Thus a variety of separate and
+independent colonies, each of which had its own government, its own
+assembly, its own customs and laws, were established in Carolina.
+
+In June, 1665, the proprietaries obtained a second charter which recited
+and confirmed the former. They were enabled to make laws for the
+province, with the consent of the freemen or their delegates: and
+likewise to grant titles of honor by creation of a nobility. No one
+prerogative of the crown was reserved, except the sovereign dominion.
+
+Samuel Stevens, esq. was appointed governor of Albemarle in October,
+1667, and was commanded to act agreeable to the advice of a council of
+twelve, the one half of which he was to appoint, the other was to be
+chosen by the assembly. The assembly was to be composed of the governor,
+the council, and twelve delegates chosen annually by the freeholders.
+Various regulations provided for the security of property: and no taxes
+were to be imposed without the consent of the assembly. The
+proprietaries might mean no more, than that neither they, nor the
+governor and council, shall impose taxes without the consent of the
+assembly: but the mode of expression tended to confirm the people at
+large in the opinion of their being exempted from all taxes which had
+not the consent of their own assembly. The settlers had their land
+confirmed, and granted to be now held by the free tenure of soccage,
+expressing a certain rent and independence. All men were declared
+entitled to equal privileges on taking the oath of allegiance to the
+king, and of fidelity to the proprietaries.
+
+It was not till 1669 that an assembly constituted as abovementioned was
+convened: when it was enacted—“none shall be sued, during five years,
+for any cause of action arising out of the country—and none shall accept
+a power of attorney, to receive debts contracted abroad.” Hence this
+colony was long considered as the refuge of the criminal, and the asylum
+of the fugitive debtor.
+
+The proprietaries, at length dissatisfied with every system which they
+had hitherto divised for the government of their province, signed in
+July, a body of _fundamental constitutions_ compiled by the celebrated
+_Locke_, giving as a reason, “That we may establish a government
+agreeable to the monarchy of which Carolina is a part, and may avoid
+making too numerous a democracy.”
+
+By this edict a palatine was to be chosen from among the proprietaries
+for life; who was to act as president of the palatine court, composed of
+the whole; which was intrusted with the exection of the powers of the
+charter. A body of hereditary nobility was created, and denominated
+landgraves and caciques; the former were to be invested with four
+baronies, each consisting of 12,000 acres; the latter to have two,
+containing one half of that quantity: and those estates were to descend
+with the dignities inseparably. There were to be as many landgraves as
+counties; and twice as many caciques, but no more. Two fifths of the
+counties, stiled signiories and baronies, were to be possessed by the
+nobility; the other three fifths, called The colonies, were to be left
+among the people.
+
+The provincial legislature, dignified with the name of parliament, was
+to be biennial, and to consist of the proprietaries, alias landgraves,
+or the deputy of each, of the cacique nobility, of the representatives
+of the freeholders of every district, who were to meet in one
+appartment, and every member to enjoy an equal vote: but no business was
+to be proposed till it had been debated in the grand council, whose duty
+it was to prepare bills for the parliamentary consideration. The grand
+council was to be composed of the governor, the nobility, and the
+deputies of the proprietaries, these being absent; and was invested with
+the executive of the province. The church of England alone was to be
+allowed a public maintenance by parliament; but every congragation might
+tax its own members for the support of its own ministers; and to every
+one was allowed perfect freedom in religion. However the most degrading
+slavery was introduced by investing in every man the property of his
+negro.[40]
+
+These constitutions, consisting of 120 articles, and containing a great
+variety of perplexing regulations, were declared to be the sacred and
+unalterable rule of government in Carolina for ever; and yet they were
+never altogether adopted. The parties engaged in this act of legislation
+should have reflected, that the inhabitants had settled no conditions,
+which it was no longer in their power to abrogate; and that in the forms
+of government which had been actually established, the people had
+acquired an interest which could not be taken away without their
+consent.
+
+[1670.] A number of emigrants were sent in January, under _William
+Sayle_, esq. appointed governor of that part of the coast which lies
+south-westward of Cape Carteret, to form a colony at Port-Royal. They
+arrived safe; and as it was found impracticable to conform to the
+constitutions, it was determined to keep as close to them as possible.
+Sayle dying, Sir _John Yeamans_ had his command extended to and over
+this colony in August, 1671. This year planters resorted from Clarendon
+on the north, and Port-Royal on the south, to the banks of Ashley river,
+for the convenience of pasture and tillage; and laid on the first high
+land the foundation of old Charles-Town. The proprietaries promulgated
+temporary laws, till through a sufficient number of inhabitants,
+government could be administered according to the fundamental
+constitutions. The temporary laws were of no long duration, being
+derided by a people without whose consent they had been established.
+
+In May, 1674, _Joseph West_, esq. was appointed governor of the southern
+colony, in the room of Sir John Yeamans, with whose conduct the
+proprietaries were dissatisfied. But the difficulty of establishing the
+colony was not overcome for years; not till the people repaired to it at
+their own expence, and men of estate ventured thither under the firm
+persuasion of being fairly treated. In expectation of such treatment,
+the dissenters, being harrassed by persecutions in England, and dreading
+a popish successor, emigrated to Carolina in great numbers, and made a
+considerable part of the inhabitants. They acquired the honor of
+introducing religion into the province, while they strengthened it also
+by their personal accessions. But the promising appearances of the
+country inviting many over of a very different stamp, after a while
+disturbances followed.
+
+The planters being informed that the _Oyster-Point_, so delightfully
+formed by the confluence of the rivers Ashley and Cooper, was more
+convenient than what was fixed upon eight years before, and the
+proprietaries encouraging their inclination, they began to remove, and
+in the subsequent year laid the foundation of the present Charles-Town,
+and built 30 houses [1680.] It was instantly declared the _port_ for the
+purposes of traffic, and the _capital_ for the administration of
+government. It was long unhealthy; but the adjacent country being now
+cleared and cultivated, it is allowed to enjoy the most salubrious air
+of Carolina.
+
+Though the province had been formed into manors and baronies, it was not
+till 1682, that it was divided into three counties. In the autumn of
+this year, governor West held a parliament; and afterwards immediately
+resigned his administration to Mr. Joseph Moreton. Thence commenced a
+reiterated change of governors. Cyrle, West, Kuerry, Moreton, were
+successively appointed. There was a similar change of every public
+officer. These changes produced turbulency and faction.
+
+But prior to this period, an insurrection broke out in the colony of
+Albemarle, in December, 1677. At the end of two years succesful revolt,
+Culpepper, who was deeply concered in the business, was dispatched with
+another person to England with a promise of submission to the
+proprietaries, on certain conditions. When about to return after
+executing his trust, he was impeached by the commissioners of the
+customs, for acting as collector without their authority, and embezzling
+the king’s revenue in Carolina. He was seized on board a vessel in the
+Downs, brought back, and in Trinity-term, 1680, tried by virtue of the
+statute of _Henry_ VIII. on an indictment of high treason committed
+without the realm. The famous Lord Shaftesbury, then in the zenith of
+his popularity, appeared on his behalf, and represented, contrary to the
+most undoubted facts, “That there never had been any regular government
+in Albemarle, that its disorders were only feuds between the planters,
+which could only amount to a riot.” On this _Culpepper_ was acquitted.
+He is the first colonist who appears to have been regularly tried in the
+court of King’s-bench upon that statute:[41] but he was not transported
+from America in order to trial. His acquittal induced the proprietaries
+to resolve upon governing, in future, according to the portion of
+obedience which the insurgents should be disposed to yield. They
+recommended, however, an healing disposition. But the persons bearing
+the chief sway, being actuated too much by a vindictive spirit,
+proseeded against their opponents by imprisonment, fine, and banishment
+The seenes of anarchy produced by these measures were not changed, nor
+the condition of the colony mended by the arrival of governor _Seth
+Sothel_, in 1683, who was sent in hopes of quieting the disorders by his
+authority, as he had purchased Lord Clarendon’s share of the province.
+He was guilty of that bribery, extortion, injustice, rapacity, breach of
+trust, and disobedience of orders, for five years, that the inhabitants,
+driven almost to dispair, seized him with a view of sending him to
+England to answer to their complaints: but upon his intreaties, and
+offering to submit to their mutual accusations to the next assmbly, they
+accepted his proposal. The assembly gave judgment against him in all the
+above-mentioned particulars, and compelled him to abjure the country for
+twelve months, and the government for ever.
+
+_Charles-town_ having been made the principal port, the first collector
+was established there in 1685. The governor and council were at the same
+time ordered, not to fail to shew their forwardness in assisting the
+collection of the duty on tobacco transported to other colonies, and in
+seizing ships that presumed to trade contarary to the acts of
+navigation. Little regard was paid to orders so contrary to the views of
+every one. An illicit trade was not only practised, but justified under
+the clause of the patent, _which the people believed to be of superior
+force to the law_.—Though the royal grant of 1665 was passed subsequent
+to the act of navigation, the present exemption was insisted upon, with
+the same spirit that it was contended during this reign, that a king of
+England may dispense with the law. The principle of the Carolinians, and
+the doctrine so fashionable at the court of James, were therefore
+exactly the same.
+
+_James Colleton_, esq. a proprietary, was appointed governor, in August.
+The next year he called an assembly, in which he and his party took upon
+them to pass such laws as lost him the affections of the people. During
+the ferments that followed, Seth Sothel, whom we have seen banished from
+Albemarle, suddenly arrived at Charles-town. Countenanced by a powerful
+party, and presuming on his powers as a proprietary, he seized the reins
+of government in 1690, notwithstanding the opposition of governar and
+council. A general return of member was procured, who readily sanctioned
+by their votes whatever was dictated by those that had thus acquired
+power. Colleton, whose conduct had been far from blameless, was
+instantly impeached of high crimes and misdemeanors, disabled from
+holding any office, and banished. Others were fined, imprisoned, and
+expelled the province. The proprietaries appointed a new governor; and
+the next year, [1692] upon the requisitions of the Carolinians,
+abrogated Mr. Locke’s system of laws, _the fundamental constitutions_,
+which far from having answered their end introduced only dissatisfaction
+and disorders, that were not cured till the final dissolation of the
+proprietary government.[42] The operation and fate of Mr. Locke’s system
+may convince us of this truth, that a person “may defend the principles
+of liberty and the rights of mankind, with great abilities and success;
+and yet after all, when called upon to produce a plan of legislation, he
+may astonish the world with a signal absurdity.”[43]
+
+Governor _Archdale_ arrived at Carolinia in August, 1695. He managed
+with great prudence, and succeeded so well, that the assembly voted him
+an address of thanks. He was succeeded by _Joseph Blake_, esq. whose
+sentiments were so liberal, that, though a dissenter, he prevailed with
+the assembly to settle £ 150 _per annum_ upon the episcopal minister of
+Charles-town for ever, and likewise to furnish him with a good house, a
+glebe, and two servants. A very different spirit wrought in the earl of
+Bath, when he succeeded to the power of palatine [1701.] and became
+eldest proprietary. Being a zealot for the church of England, he was
+ambitious of establishing its worship, and of excluding
+non-episcopalians from a share in the government of Carolina; a similar
+principle was at that time too prevalent in England. His views were
+seconded by the pliableness of governor _Moor_, who was after a while
+succeeded by Sir _Nathaniel Johnson_. Then the assembly being convened,
+a bill was brought in for the more effectual preservation of the
+government, by requiring all persons chosen members of the assembly, to
+conform to religious worship, and receive the sacrament of the Lord’s
+supper, according to the usage of the church of England. By this act,
+all dissenters were disqualified from sitting in the assembly, though
+legally elected, and the candidate who had the greatest number of
+voices, after the disqualified dissenter, was to be admitted. The
+passing of this act was unconstitutional and oppressive. Another bill
+was passed for establishing religious worship in the province, according
+to the church of England, and also for the erecting of churches, the
+maintenance of ministers, and the building of convenient parsonages.
+Both these acts were afterwards signed and settled by John lord
+Granville, then palatine, for himself and the other proprietors. In
+consequence of the last act, many oppressions were committed by the
+government against the dissenters, who laboured under these and other
+grievances, till the matter at length was brought before the house of
+lords, who having fully weighed the same, addressed the queen in favour
+of the Carolinians; and the laws complained of [1706.] were declared
+null and void.
+
+An Indian war having broken out in Carolina, and the proprietaries
+finding themselves unable to maintain it against the Indians, while
+these were supported by the French and Spaniards, [1728.] resolved to
+surrender their charter to the crown. One-eighth of the province
+belonged to lord Carteret. The proprietors of the other seven-eighths
+were to receive for their cession £ 17,500 together with £ 5000 more,
+due to them from the province on account of outstanding debts. The
+surrender and payment was confirmed by a British act of parliament,
+wherein was a clause, reserving always to John lord Carteret, his heirs,
+executors, administrators, and assigns, all such estate, right, and
+title to one-eighth part of the share of the said provinces or
+territories, and to one-eighth part of all arrears as was his due. After
+passing the act, the British government applied itself in earnest to
+encourage this colony, and _Robert Johnson_, esq. was appointed
+governor, and continued such till he died in 1735; in which year
+Carolina was divided into two Colonies, North and South, and each placed
+under a separate governor.[44]
+
+_Pennsylvania_ and the _Delaware Counties_ next demand our attention.
+Mr. _William Penn_, one of the joint purchasers of the western part of
+the Jerseys, having received the most exact information of the country
+to the westward of the Deleware, while engaged in the administration of
+the joint purchase, became desirous of acquiring a separate estate.
+
+He presented a petition to _Charles_ II. in June 1680, stating not only
+his relationship to the late admiral; but that he was deprived of a debt
+due from the crown, when the exchequer was shut. He prayed for a grant
+of land, lying to the northward of Maryland, and westward of the
+Delaware; and added, that by his interest he should be able to settle a
+province which might, in time, repay his claims. Having the prospect of
+success, he copied from the charter of Maryland the sketch of a patent
+which in November was laid before the attorney-general for his opinion.
+Penn had the same object in view as lord Baltimore had, the guarding
+against the exertions of prerogative, which experience had taught both
+were very inconvenient. The attorney-general declared the clause of
+exemption from taxation illegal: and chief justice North, being of the
+same opinion, and observing its tendency, added the saving of the
+authority of the English parliament, so that it was stipulated by the
+king, for himself and his successors, “that no customs or other
+contribution shall be laid on the inhabitants or their estates, unless
+by the consent of the porprietary, or governor and assembly, or _by act
+of parliament in England_.”
+
+The next year [1681] the patent was granted, in consideration of “the
+merits of the father, and the good purposes of the son, in order to
+extend the English empire, and to promote useful commodities.” It was
+provided by fit clauses, that the sovereignty of the king should be
+preserved; and that acts of parliament, concerning trade and navigation
+and the customs, be duly observed. Penn was empowered to assemble the
+freemen, or their delegates, in such form as he should think proper, for
+raising money for the uses of the colony, and for making useful laws,
+not contrary to those of England, or the rights of the kingdom. A
+duplicate of the acts of the assembly was to be transmitted within five
+year to the king in council, and the acts might be declared void within
+six months, if not approved.
+
+The novel introduction of the clause subjecting the inhabitants of
+Pennsylvania to taxation by act of parliament, might afford an argument
+against being so taxed, to all the colonies whose charters contained no
+such clause. Dr. Franklin being asked, when examined by the house of
+commons, in the time of the stamp act, “Seeing their is in the
+Pennsylvania charter, an express reservation of the right of parliament
+to lay taxes there, how could the assembly assert, that laying a tax on
+them by the stamp act was an infringement on their rights? answered,
+“They understand it thus—by the same charter and otherwise they are
+entitled to all the privileges and liberties of Englishmen. They find in
+the great charters and the petition and declaration of rights, that one
+of the privileges of English subjects is, that they are not to be taxed
+but by their own consent: they have therefore relied upon it, from the
+first settlement, that the parliament never would or could, by colour of
+that clause, tax them till it had qualified itself for the exercise of
+such right, by admitting representatives from the people to be taxed.”
+You will recollect governor Nicholson’s writing in 1698, “a great many
+people in all the colonies, especially in those under proprietaries,
+think that no law of England ought to be binding to them without their
+own consent: for they foolishly say, they have no representatives sent
+from themselves to the parliament of England.” [p. 39.]
+
+The Pennsylvanians, it may be noted, were not declared by the patent to
+be English subjects. There was no express stipulation, as had been
+inserted in all the other colonial patents, “that the Pennsylvanians and
+their descendants should be considered as subjects born within the
+realm;” for the lawyers who revised it, considered such declaratious as
+nugatory, since they were inferred by law.[45] If the right of the
+English parliament to tax the colonies could also have been inferred by
+law, why was not the express reservation of that right considered
+likewise as nugatory.
+
+In May, Penn detached Mr. Markham, his kinsman, with a small emigration,
+in order to take possession of the country, and prepare it for a more
+numerous colony. Care was taken to order an humane attention to the
+rights of the Indians.
+
+[1628] The frame of government for Pennsylvania was published in April.
+It was forced from the proprietary by friends, who would not have
+settled his country, unless gratified in whatever they demanded. It
+underwent a similar fate with the constitutions of Locke; and after a
+variety of alterations, was at length wholly laid aside, and a simpler
+form established. As a supplement to the frame, there was published, in
+the subsequent May, a body of laws agreed upon in England by the
+adventurers, which was intended as a great charter, and does honor to
+their wisdom as statesmen, to their morals as men, and to their spirit
+as colonists.
+
+Mr. _Penn_, desirous of carrying his religion southward to the
+Chesapeak, was continually soliciting the duke of York, for a grant of
+the _Delaware colony_. The prince at length wearied out, conveyed, in
+August, the town of Newcastle, with a territory of twelve miles round;
+as also that tract of land extending southward from it upon the Delaware
+to Cape-Henlopen. It was known to both parties, that the title of what
+was now granted was extremely exceptionable, as the duke could transfer
+no other right than mere occupancy in opposition to the legal claim, of
+lord Baltimore. Penn, however, who was intent on his own interest in
+those parts, immediately assumed the powers of jurisdiction.
+
+When, for the first time, he arrived on the banks of the Delaware,
+October the 24th, he found them inhabited by 3,000 persons, composed of
+Swedes, Dutch, Finlanders and English. Not only his own colonists, but
+the rest, received him with joy and respect. He was accompanied thither
+by about 2,000 emigrants, who being either quakers or other dissenters,
+wished to enjoy their peculiarities and religion, in a country that
+offered a peaceful asylum to the persecuted. Mr. Penn immediately
+entered into a treaty with the Indians, and, agreeable to the bishop of
+London’s counsel, purchased from them as much of the soil as the
+circumstances of the colony required, for a price that gave them
+satisfaction: he also settled with them a very kind correspondence. In
+December, he convened the first assembly at Chester, consiting of
+seventy-two delegates from the six counties, into which they had divided
+Pennsylvania and the Delaware colony, soon after denominated the
+_territories_. The inhabitants proposed that the deputies might serve
+both for the provincial council and general assembly; three out of every
+county for the former, and nine for the latter. Their proposals were
+passed by the assembly without hesitation into an act of settlement. The
+persons returned were declared to be the legal council and assembly, and
+every county was empowered to send the same number in future, which in
+the same manner should constitute the legislature; and after the
+addition of a few other explanations, the modified frame of government
+was solemnly recognized and accepted. Then an act was passed, annexing
+the territories to the province, and communicating to the one the same
+privileges, government, and laws, as the other already enjoyed. Every
+foreigner who promised allegience to the king, and obedience to the
+proprietary, was at the same time declared to be a freeman, and entitled
+to his rights. By the legislative regulation, established as
+fundamentals by this assembly, factors who wronged their employers were
+to make satisfaction and one-third over—not only the goods, but the
+lands of the debtor were subjected to the payment of debts—every thing
+which excited the people to rudeness, cruelty, and irreligion, was to be
+discouraged and severely punished—no person acknowledging one God, and
+living peaceably in society, was to be molested for his opinions or
+practice, or to be compelled to frequent or maintain any ministry
+whatsoever. It was a principle of the great charter, “that children
+shall be taught some useful trade, to the end that none may be idle, but
+the poor may work to live, and the rich, if they become poor may not
+want.”
+
+Penn, dissatisfied with the act of settlement, without difficulty
+created a second frame, agreeing partly with the first, modified
+according to the act of settlement in certain particulars, and in some
+measure essentially different from both; to which he procured the assent
+of the next assembly, in 1683; but which in time shared the fate of the
+former.
+
+[1684.] He departed for England. The most violent dissensions followed
+almost instantly upon it, the provincial council and the assembly
+contending eagerly with regard to their mutual privileges and powers.
+Tranquility was not restored by the duputy governor Blackwell, who
+entered upon his government in December, 1688.
+
+[1685.] Toward the close of this year Mr. Penn obtained a new grant to
+the Delaware colony, which he had been soliciting for some time.
+
+[1688.] The Pennsylvanians and their rulers, when Blackwell entered upon
+his administration, were so much engaged in their own contests and
+pursuits, and so actuated by the principles of their superior, [the
+proprietary whose attachments to James II. during those days are well
+known] that they seem to have disregarded that signal revolution which
+transferred their allegience and Pennsylvania to the prince and princess
+of Orange: for the very laws and government of the province were
+administered in the name of the abdicated monarch, long after William
+and Mary had been formally proclaimed in other colonies.
+
+It is a singularity in the history of this province, that neither its
+various systems, nor its fundamental laws, were communicated to the king
+for dissent or approbation, though strongly enforced.[46]
+
+Penn’s adherence to James carried him to such lengths, that he was
+considered as an inveterate enemy to the protestant establishment, and
+was for some time excepted out of the acts of grace published by William
+and Mary; who appointed colonel _Fletcher_, by the same commission,
+governor both of New-York and Pennsylvania. In the commission no manner
+of regard seems to have been had to the original charter. But when the
+assembly met, though sixteen short in number to what had been before
+usual, through the change made in the writs, they passed a vote, _nem.
+con._ “That the laws of this province, which were in force and practice
+before the arrival of this present governor, are still in force; and
+that the assembly have a right humbly to move the governor for a
+continuation or confirmation of the same.” That and subsequent
+assemblies shewed such a fixed determination to secure their rights,
+that neither governor nor lieutenant governor could bring them to bend
+to their wishes.
+
+In 1696 Penn had so well managed matters at the court of England, that
+he was restored to his right of naming a governor; and in the beginning
+of 1700 he went to Pennsylvania in person. After the meeting of several
+assemblies, he convened one in September, 1701, and informed them of the
+indispensable necessity he was under of going to England, to obviate
+some ill offices done by his and their enemies with the government
+there; but offered to do every thing that was in his power to secure to
+them their privileges and properties. The assmbly, in their answer,
+expressed their dissatisfaction at the state of both, and required
+farther security; to which he gave evasive answers, but offered to leave
+the nomination of the deputy governor to themselves; they declined it,
+and went upon a new charter of privileges.
+
+This introduced a breach between the members of the province and those
+of the territories; the latter insisting upon some particular
+privileges, which, when refused by the others, made them withdraw from
+the meeting, and it required all the authority and address of the
+proprietary to make up the breach. At last, after great heart-burnings
+on both parts, just when Mr. Penn was about to embark, a charter of
+privileges was presented to him and being ratified by him, became the
+rule of government in Pennsylvania. By this important charter liberty of
+conscience is granted; and all christians, of whatever denomination,
+taking the proper oaths of allegiance and fidelity, are enabled to serve
+the government, either legislatively or executively. The exclusion of
+all persons from the legislative and executive branches, however
+eminently qualified, and well behaved as members of civil society,
+unless they are christians, does not accord with that general liberty
+which ought to prevail in national communities, now that the existance
+of all theocracy is ended by the introduction of the kingdom of Christ.
+The piety of the theorist, and the subtilty of the politician, desirous
+of securing the support of christians, may introduce the exclusion into
+written or printed agreements, but cannot establish a practical
+exclusion of persons opposed to christianity. He must be both simple and
+uninformed, who will not admit, that many deists have served the
+Pennsylvania and other excluding governments, either legislatively or
+executively.
+
+By the second article of the charter it is provided, that an assembly
+shall be yearly chosen by the freemen, to consist of four persons out of
+each county, or of a greater number, if the governor and assembly shall
+so agree, on the 1st of October for ever, and shall sit on the 14th
+following, with power to choose a speaker and other their officers, and
+be judges of the qualifications and elections of their own members;
+shall sit upon their own adjournments, prepare bills, impeach criminals,
+and redress grievances; and shall possess all other powers and
+privileges of an assembly, according to the rights of the free-born
+subjects of England, and the customs observed in any of the king’s
+plantations in America. If any county or counties shall neglect to send
+deputies, those who meet, provided they are not fewer in number than two
+thirds of the whole, shall be considered as the legal representatives of
+the province.
+
+By the eighth article, in cases of suicide, all property is to descend
+to the next heirs, as if the deceased had died a natural death: nor is
+the governor to be entitled to any forfeiture, if a person shall be
+killed by causualty or accident. The same article provides, that no act,
+law, or ordinance whatsoever, shall at any time hereafter be made, to
+alter or diminish the form or effect of this charter, or of any part of
+it, without the consent of the governor for the time being, and six
+parts in seven of the assembly met—that the first article, relating to
+liberty of conscience, shall be kept without any alteration inviolably
+for ever—and that William Penn, for himself, _&c._ does solemnly
+declare, that neither he, _&c._ shall do any thing whereby the
+liberties, in this charter contained, nor any part thereof, shall be
+infringed; and that if any thing shall be done by any person contrary
+thereto, it shall be held of no effect.
+
+This new constitution differed greatly from the original.—The governor
+might nominate his own council, and he was left single in the executive
+part of the government, and had liberty to restrain the legislative, by
+refusing his assent to their bills.—The assembly, on the other hand,
+acquired the important privilege of propounding laws, as well as of
+amending or rejecting them; but though this new constitution was
+thankfully accepted by the province, it was unanimously rejected by the
+territories; and affairs stood in this untoward state when the
+proprietary sailed for England. The representatives of the province and
+those of the territories divided, and acted as two distinct bodies; and
+the attempts to unite them proved ineffectual.
+
+The _territories_ consisted of the three counties, _Newcastle_, _Kent_,
+and _Sussex_, on the Delaware, and are commonly known by the name of the
+three _Lower Counties on the Delaware_.
+
+Notwithstanding Mr. Penn is celebrated as the wisest of legislators, the
+assembly, about the year 1704, unanimously came to nine resolutions, in
+which they complain with great grief of him, “for undermining his own
+foundations; and by a subtle contrivance, laid deeper than the
+capacities of some could fathom, finding a way to lay aside the act of
+settlement, and dissove his second charter.”[47] He was likewise charged
+with having extorted from the province great sums of money. They
+complained also of the abuses of surveyors, the clerks of the courts,
+and justices of the peace, who, they said, were all put in by the
+proprietary, so that he became his own judge in his own cause.—These and
+other matters were the heads of a representation, or rather
+remonstrance, drawn up and sent to Mr. Penn, then in England, in which
+he is represented as an oppressor, and as falsifying his word in almost
+every respect, with the provincials.[48]
+
+The disputes which subsisted in Pennsylvania were greatly augmented by
+the intemperance of the quakers themselves, who, notwithstanding all
+their zeal for liberty of conscience, persecuted about or soon after
+1694, George Keith (who had been one of their most famous preachers)
+upon his conforming to the church of England; and went so far as to
+throw him into prison. They apologized for their conduct by pleading,
+that they did not punish him for his religious principles, but for
+having insulted the civil government.[49] If this was a good plea, the
+New-Englanders might gain great advantages from it, in vindicating
+themselves as to many of the severities they practised upon the quakers,
+who insulted their civil governments, beyond what will be easily
+credited by those who have not had the opportunity of knowing the
+transactions of that period, or are not acquainted with the abusive
+language of some of the then leaders of that denomination—language which
+the body of modern quakers will not vindicate.
+
+It only remains to give a concise account of the settlement of
+_Georgia_.
+
+In 1732 a number of gentlemen, considering the vast benefit that might
+arise from the tract of land lying between the Savannah and the river
+Altamahat petitioned the king for a charter, which was accordingly
+granted on the ninth of June. They meant that the country should be made
+a bulwark for the southern colonies against the Spaniards; and should
+give employment to numbers of people who were burthensome at home to
+their friends and parishes. The charter constituted them a corporation,
+by the name of trustees for establishing a colony, by the name of
+Georgia, including the country from the most northern stream of the
+Savannah, to the most southern stream of the Altamaha. The corporation
+was to subsist for 21 years; and after the expiration of that term, the
+governor and all officers were to be appointed by the crown.
+
+Toward the end of August, Sir William Heathcote recommended in the
+strongest terms, to the directors of the bank, the interests of the
+colony. His speech had the desired effect, and the members of the court,
+after his example, contributed largely toward the undertaking, as did
+great numbers of the nobility, gentry, clergy, and others; and the
+parliament granted £.10,000. By the beginning of November, about a
+hundred and sixteen colonists presented themselves, most of them
+labouring people; and were furnished with working tools of all kinds,
+stores, and small arms. Mr. _Oglethorpe_, one of the trustees,
+generously attended the first set of emigrants to Carolina, where they
+arrived in good health on the 15th of January 1733. The Carolinians made
+them a present of 100 breeding cattle, besides hogs, and twenty barrels
+of rice; and furnished them with a party of horse and with scout boats,
+by the help of which they reached the Savannah, where Mr. Oglethorpe,
+ten miles up the river, pitched upon a spot for a town; and on February
+the 9th, the building of the first house commenced. The colonists were
+most generously assisted by the Carolinians and their governor,
+cololonel Bull, not only with their purses, but their labour, in raising
+the new town, named Savannah, from the river.
+
+Mr. Oglethorpe was waited upon by a numerous deputation from the Lower
+Creek Nation, with whom he concluded a treaty; and soon after set out
+for Charles-Town, on his return to England, where he arrived in 1734,
+bringing with him several Indian chiefs and a war captain. But before
+the end of March this year, more emigrants, to the amount of six
+hundred, were either sent over by charity, or went at their own expence.
+
+On the 30th of October the Indians embarked for their own country,
+having had an allowance while in London of £.20 a week, of which they
+spent little, as they commonly ate and drank at the tables of persons of
+the highest distinction. They moreover received presents to a very
+considerable amount. They embarked at Gravesend, in a ship which carried
+over a number of Saltzburghers, being German protestants, who, with
+others of their countrymen that followed, settled on the Savannah, a
+town they called Ebenezer, and which by their habits of industry and
+sobriety soon became considerable. The Georgians made a surprising
+progress in clearing their lands and building their houses: and, as an
+encouragement, the British parliament granted them a supply of £.26,000
+which, with very great private donations, was expended upon
+strengthening the south part of Georgia. This being a necessary service
+for the colony, the trustees pitched upon the highlanders of Scotland,
+160 of whom went over in 1735, settled themselves upon Altamaha river,
+and gave the name of Darien to a fort they built there, to which they
+afterwards added a small town called New Inverness.
+
+In February, 1736, Mr. Oglethorpe, with about 300 passengers on board
+two ships, anchored in the road of Savannah. He soon began building
+another town, named Frederica.
+
+[1737.] A misunderstanding subsisting between the courts of London and
+Madrid, and advice being sent from South-Carolina to Britain, that the
+Spaniards at St. Augustine and the Havannah, were making preparations
+for attacking Georgia, the government, at the request of the trustees,
+sent thither a regiment of 600 men, any of whom at the end of seven
+years might have a regular discharge, and be entitled to a grant of
+twenty acres of land. The parliament this year granted the colony
+another supply of £.20,000 which enabled the trustees to send over a
+fresh embarkation, of persecuted protestants.
+
+On the breaking out of the war between England and Spain, Mr.
+Oglethorpe, being invested with a general’s command, proceeded with a
+body of troops to attack St. Augustine in 1740, but the expedition
+proved unfortunate.
+
+In 1742 Georgia was invaded by about 5000 Spaniards and Indians from St.
+Augustine, in about fifty vessels of various kinds, who were repulsed by
+the general at the head of the English forces, and a small body of
+Indians. Had the Spanish descent proved successful, the Carolinians must
+have been in imminent danger: but the general’s good conduct secured
+them, and he received congratulatory letters of thanks from several of
+the American governors, for his great and important services.[50]
+
+On the review of what you have read, you will note, that the colonists
+were very early in declaring, that they ought not to be taxed but by
+their own general courts, and that they considered subjection to the
+acts of a parliament in which they had no representatives from
+themselves, as a hardship—that like true born Englishmen, when
+grievously oppressed by governors or others, they resisted, deposed, and
+banished; and would not be quieted till grievances complained of were
+redressed—and that not a colony, Georgia excepted, was settled at the
+expence of government. Toward the settlement of the last, parliament
+granted £.56,000 at three different periods.
+
+
+
+
+                               LETTER II.
+
+
+                                                _Roxbury, July 9, 1772._
+
+The present letter begins with some special colonial transactions
+subsequent to the glorious revolution. Upon information of the accession
+of William and Mary, the fort at New-York was seized by the rabble,
+while the lieutenant governor Nicholson and the council, waited with
+anxiety for orders to proclaim their new sovereign. On this occasion,
+Jacob Leisler placed himself at the head of the insurgents; and
+notwithstanding the protest of the council, possessed himself by force
+of a letter transmitted by king William to the lieutenant governor, or
+to such as for the time executed the law, and instantly assumed the name
+and exerted the authority of governor. He convened two sessions of
+assembly in 1690, which passed various laws. But colonel Sloughter, who
+had been appointed governor in August, 1689, arriving in March, 1691,
+Leisler was made prisoner, and, with others, condemned for treason and
+murder; he and his principal adviser were executed. A legal general
+assembly was now convened. The precaution taken in the declaration and
+bill of rights, by the convention and parliament, to state the claims of
+Englishmen, might naturally induce the Yorkers to propose somewhat
+similar for themselves, had there been no prior propensity to that
+business. But the prevailing opinion of the colonists naturally dictated
+to them the seizing of the present fovorable opportunity. The New-York
+general assembly passed “an act, declaring what are the rights and
+privileges of their majesty’s subjects within the province.” The law
+enacts, “That the supreme legislative power and authority under their
+majesties, shall for ever be, and reside in a governor and council,
+appointed by their majesties, their heirs and successors; and the people
+by their representatives met and convened in general assembly.” It
+further enacts, “_That no aid, tax, tallage, &c. whatsoever, shall be
+laid, assessed, levied, or required, of or on any their majesties
+subjects within the province, &c. or their estates, upon any manner of
+colour or pretence whatsoever, but by the act and consent of the
+governor and council, and representatives of the people in general
+assembly met and convened_.” This memorable act was a virtual
+declaration, that the inhabitants of the colony had a right to be
+represented in assembly, and enjoyed it not as a privilege, through the
+grace of the crown.[51] Six years after, in 1697, a negative was put
+upon the act, probably by the regency, while the king was absent, which
+was from April the 26th, to the middle of November, when he returned
+after the peace of Ryswick was settled.
+
+The _Massachusetts_ petitioned for a renewal of their former charter,
+but it could not be obtained; and many reasons were assigned for not
+granting it, among the rest, its giving them no power to lay taxes and
+raise money, especially on inhabitants not being of the company, and on
+strangers coming to or trading with them. One of the chief acts of
+delinquency alleged in the writ of _scire facias_, issued against their
+former charter, was, their having _levied money of the inhabitants_.
+
+[1691.] King _William_ and queen _Mary_ granted a new charter, in which
+_Plymouth_, the _Main_, _Acadia or Nova-Scotia_, and the tract lying
+between _Nova-Scotia_ and the _Main_, were annexed to and made a part of
+the _Massachusetts_. It was complained of, as being not much more than a
+shadow of the old; seeing that the appointment of the governor,
+lieutenant-governor, secretary, and all the officers of the admiralty,
+was vested in the crown; that the power of the militia was wholly in the
+hands of his majesty’s governor as captain general; that all judges,
+justices, and sheriffs, were to be nominated by the governor, with the
+advice of the council; that the governor had a negative upon the choice
+of counsellors; that all laws enacted by the general assembly, were to
+be sent home for the royal approbation or disallowance: and that no
+laws, ordinances, elections, or acts of government whatsoever, were to
+be of any validity, without the consent of the governor, signified in
+writing. The new charter, however, conferred on the inhabitants a number
+of very important privileges, and was to be preferred to the old in many
+respects. They were informed by the best civilians, that their religious
+liberties were forever secured; and that they could be touched by no tax
+or law, but of their own making; which had a good effect in quieting
+them under the variations to which they objected.
+
+[1692.] The first act of the _Massachusetts_ legislature, after the
+arrival of the charter, was a kind of Magna Charta, asserting and
+setting forth their general privileges, and this clause was among the
+rest, “_No aid, tax, tallage, assessment, custom, loan, benevolence, or
+imposition whatsoever, shall be laid, assessed, imposed, or levied on
+any of his majesty’s subjects, or their estates, on any pretence
+whatever, but by the act and consent of the governor, council and
+representatives of the people, assembled in general court_.” The general
+court passed others favourable to liberty, which were perused by the
+ministers of England at a distant period; and with the preceding,
+disallowed of by the regency in 1695. In December the reasons of this
+dissent were transmitted to the governor and council. The following
+extract from the letter sent by the committee of plantations, is
+subjoined, because of its being so extraordinary and decisive: “Whereas,
+by the act for securing the liberty of the subject, and preventing
+illegal imprisonments, the writ of Hæbeas Corpus is required to be
+granted, in like manner as is appointed by the statute of 31 Charles II.
+in England, which privilege has not yet been granted in any of his
+majesty’s plantations; it was not thought in his majesty’s absence, that
+the said act should be continued in force, and therefore the same hath
+been repealed.”
+
+The above extract makes this a proper place for mentioning, that the
+ancient colonists being destitute of proper security, for want of an
+Hæbeas Corpus act, were in some provinces grievously oppressed. Edward
+Randolph, surveyor-general, during the reign of William III. represented
+their condition to the board of trade, March 1700; and among other
+beneficial regulations, he recommended, “That it being the practice of
+governors to imprison the subjects without bail, the Hæbeas Corpus act
+should be extended as fully to the colonies as it is in England.” It was
+accordingly soon after conferred on Virginia, by queen Anne. The council
+in their address said upon the occasion, “We, the council of Virginia,
+acknowledge your majesty’s late favour, in allowing us the benefit of
+the Hæbeas Corpus act, and in appointing courts of oyer and terminer,
+for the more speedy execution of justice, and relief from long
+imprisonments.” The lower house, in theirs, said, “We the burgesses now
+assembled, do beseech your majesty to accept our sincere thanks for your
+many favours bestowed on your subjects of this colony. We shall not
+pretend to enumerate the particulars, nor can we omit mentioning those
+lately communicated to us by your majesty’s royal instructions to your
+governor, wherein you have asserted to your subjects their legal rights
+and properties, by allowing them the Hæbeas Corpus act.”[52]
+
+The extension of the Hæbeas Corpus act to the plantations, by queen
+Anne, appears to have been only by instructions to the governors, and
+not by any act of parliament. By what prerogative could she extend that
+act to the colonists, were they not before entitled to its benefit? If
+entitled to, it was unjust in any power to deny them the advantage of
+the act; and the royal favour to the Virginians, consisted solely in the
+queen’s _asserting to her subjects their legal rights and properties_
+(as the burgesses expressed themselves) by giving suitable directions on
+the business. The high sense of colonial liberty exhibited by the _York_
+and _Massachusetts_ general courts, was opposed by the _English_
+government.
+
+[1696.] An act was passed by the parliament, declaring that “All laws,
+bye-laws, usages and customs, which shall be in practice in any of the
+plantations, repugnant to any law made or to be made in this kingdom,
+relative to the said plantations, shall be void and of none effect.”
+
+There might be no design on the part of the ministry of taxing any of
+the colonies; but about 1696, a pamphlet was published, recommending the
+laying a parliamentary tax on one of them. It was answered by two others
+much read; which totally denied the power of taxing the colonies,
+because they had no representation in parliament to give consent. No
+answer, public or private, was given to these pamphlets; no censure
+passed upon them; men were not startled at the doctrine, as either new
+or illegal, or derogatory to the rights of parliament.[53]
+
+Though the parliament might not then claim the right of taxing, they
+claimed the right of punishing disobedience to their laws, with the loss
+of charter privileges. In the 11th of _William_ III. an act was passed
+[1699.] for the trial of pirates in _America_, in which there is the
+following clause, “Be it further declared, _that if any of the
+governors, or any person or persons in authority_ there, shall _refuse
+to yield obedience to this act_, such refusal is hereby declared to be a
+_forfeiture_ of all and every the _charters_ granted for the
+_government_ or _propriety_ of such plantation.”
+
+Severity is stamped upon the very face of the act, in making the
+disobedience of a governor, the forfeiture of a charter, meant to secure
+the liberties of thousands, who might not have any the least power of
+preventing such disobedience. The proprieties and charter colonies were
+so disinclined to admit of appeals to his majesty in council, and were
+thought so to thirst after independence that these and other objections
+against them were laid before the parliament, [1701.] and a bill
+thereupon brought into the house of lords for re-uniting the right of
+government in those colonies to the crown: but better council prevailed,
+and matters were left unaltered. Some are for bringing as a precedent
+for the parliament’s raising a revenue from the colonies, what was
+passed in 1710, viz. “An act for establishing a general post-office for
+all her majesty’s dominions, and for settling, a weekly sum out of the
+revenues thereof, for the service of the war and other her majesty’s
+occasions.” By this act the postage of England, Scotland, Ireland, and
+America, were consolidated, to the end that a general post-office might
+be established through Great-Britain and Ireland, her colonies and
+plantations in North-America and the West-Indies, and all her other
+dominions, in such manner as might be most beneficial to the people: and
+that the revenue arising form the said office might be better improved.
+The consolidation made a new act necessary; and afforded the opportunity
+of advancing the rates of letters. The weekly sum amounted to £.700 and
+was to be paid out of the revenue for 32 years; the payment was made
+perpetual in the third year of her successor, having been soon after
+granted, appropriated by another act toward paying off, with interest at
+six _per cent._ the principal of £.2,602,200, which government borrowed
+of the public. By the act, the post-riders carrying the mail, were
+exempted from paying any thing for passing the ferries in North-America,
+and the ferryman was subjected to a penalty of five pounds, if he did
+not convey them over within half an hour after demanded.
+
+Whatever power over the colonies the parliament might exercise in the
+act, the dissimilarity between this and the sugar act, passed in 1764,
+will not admit of the former’s being quoted, with propriety, as a
+precedent for the latter. The colonists were in no wise uneasy at it,
+and considered not the American postage in the light of an internal tax,
+designed for the raising of a revenue from them; for it was but a few
+comparatively who were affected by it; and these were accommodated in
+the conveyance of their letters, received a full equivalent for the
+postage of them, and were not bound to send them by the public post,
+when they preferred a private conveyence.
+
+In respect of the readiness of the colonies to co-operate with each
+other and the mother country, for the general good, they manifested the
+same as occasion required.
+
+[1690.] The _Massachusetts_ general court wrote to the several governors
+of the neighbouring colonies, desiring them to appoint commissioners “to
+meet, advise, and conclude upon suitable methods in assisting each other
+for the safety of the whole land.” The governor of _New-York_ was
+requested to signify the same to _Maryland_, and parts adjacent.
+
+The commissioners met on the 1st of May, at _New-York_, and were stiled
+a _Congress_, as may be concluded from the following paragraph in Mr.
+_Stoughton’s_ letter of October 20, 1693, to Lord _Nottingham_:[54] “I
+crave leave further to acquaint your lordship, that the governor of
+_New-York_ having written unto his excellency the governor here,
+signifying his appointment of a meeting at _New-York_, upon the first
+Wednesday of this month, of commissioners from the several governments
+of _New-England_, _Virginia_, &c. to concert and agree upon a certain
+_quota_ of men and money, for the defence of _Albany_, &c. in observance
+of their majesties commands; it happened to be at such a time, and under
+such a conjuncture of affairs here, that no meet persons could be
+procured to attend _that Congress_.” It does not appear, that there was
+any congress between the two periods. It may also be observed, that the
+first was procured at the motion of the _Massachusetts_ general court,
+formed, from the necessity of the day, upon the vacated charter, before
+a new one was granted; and that the motion originated in the court, from
+zeal for the common safety of the colonies, without any interposition of
+their majesties command. We meet with no congress prior to what was thus
+procured.
+
+[Oct. 14, 1709.] At the desire of colonel _Vetch_, there was a congress
+of several governors, with some of their council and assembly, to
+consult upon the intended expedition against _Canada_, and to resolve on
+methods for securing the frontiers.
+
+[Oct. 31, 1711.] The _Massachusetts_ house of assembly, at the motion of
+lieutenant-general _Nicholson_, advised, to a congress of her majesty’s
+governors attended with such persons as the governments might appoint.
+The council appointed two, and the house three, out of their respective
+bodies, to attend the governor to congress, which appears to have met
+afterwards at _New-London_.
+
+But though the conduct of the _Massachusetts_, in their exertions for
+the general good, was highly commendable, their behaviour afterward, in
+their own colonial affairs, under governor _Shute_, was greatly
+censurable.
+
+[1722.] The house of assembly attempted to take from colonel _Shute_,
+those powers in matters relative to the war, which belonged to him by
+the constitution, and to vest them in a committee of the two houses.
+They by degrees acquired, from the governor and council, the keys of the
+treasury; and no monies could be issued, not so much as to pay an
+express, without the vote of the house for that purpose; whereas by the
+charter, all monies were to be paid out of the treasury, “by warrant
+from the governor, with the advice and consent of the council.”
+
+The ministry were greatly offended at the governor’s being made uneasy;
+for colonel _Shute_ was known at court and the offices of state, under
+the character of a very worthy gentleman, of a singular good temper,
+fitted to make any people under his command happy. When, therefore, they
+found the contrary in the _Massachusetts_, they concluded, that the
+people wished to have no governor from _Great-Britain_, but wanted to be
+independent of the crown. The cry of the city of _London_ ran
+exceedingly against them; and a scheme, that had been long planned for
+taking away the charter, had nearly been executed; but was fortunately
+frustrated by the indefatigable pains of Mr. _Dummer_, their then agent.
+Their own council at home were obliged to a confession of their illegal
+proceedings. [Jan. 15, 1725.] An explanatory charter was prepared,
+proposed, and accepted. Had it not been accepted, the design was to have
+submitted to the consideration of the British legislature, “What further
+provision may be necessary to support and preserve his majesty’s
+authority in the colony, and prevent similar invasion of his prerogative
+for the future.”[55]
+
+It had been usual to give instructions to the several governors, to
+recommend to the assembly the establishing of a salary suitable to the
+dignity of their post; but the house had always declined complying,
+prudently apprehensive, that disagreable consequences might ensue, from
+the independency of the governor on the people over whom he was placed.
+These instructions were renewed when governor _Burnet_ was appointed to
+the chair, who adhering to them, and showing a fixed determination not
+to part with govermental rights, warm disputes followed between him and
+the house of representatives; whose treatment of him was so
+unwarrantable, that the council board [1729.] within a week after the
+affair, expressed their concern at the unbecoming and undutiful
+treatment given to his excellency, in the message of the house on the
+sixth of December.
+
+In divers instances they showed such a disposition to encroach upon the
+prerogative, to wrangle with their governor, and to dispute with the
+crown, that the ministry and other persons in public offices, as is
+natural for those who look for submissive compliance, were much
+irritated; and improved to the utmost all advantages to excite
+prejudices against them.
+
+It was suggested that they were aiming at independence; and jealousies
+were raised in the minds of some, that there was danger of the colonies
+setting up for themselves. Nevertheless, it was certain that such a
+scheme appeared to the whole country wild and extravagant; because of
+the universal loyalty of the people, beyond what was to be found in any
+other part of the British dominions, together with the infancy of the
+colonies, and their being distinct from one another in forms of
+government, religious rights, emulation of trade, and, consequently,
+their affections; so that it was not supposable that they could unite in
+so dangerous an enterprise.[56]
+
+However, when the _Massachusetts_ petitioned the house of commons,
+praying that they might be heard by council on the subject of
+grievances, the house took that opportunity of discovering how jealous
+it was of the kingdom’s supremacy and uncontroulable authority over the
+colony; for the commons having considered the matter, resolved, “That
+the petition was frivolous and groundless, a high insult upon his
+majesty’s government, and tending to _shake off the dependency_ of the
+said colony upon this kingdom, to which, _in law and right, they ought
+to be subject_.”
+
+The colonies might object to some acts passed respecting them,
+particularly—the act prohibiting the cutting down of pitch and tar
+trees, not being within a fence or enclosure—the act prohibiting the
+exportation of hats made in the colonies, even from one colony to
+another; and restraining all makers of hats from taking more than two
+apprentices at a time, or any for less than seven years, and entirely
+from employing negroes in the business—the act for the more easy
+recovery of debts in his majesty’s plantations and colonies in America,
+which made houses, lands, negroes, and other real estates, assets for
+the payment of debts. It was passed in 1732, upon the petition of the
+English merchants trading to the colonies, who complained, that the
+Virginia and Jamaica, a privilege was claimed to exempt their houses,
+lands, tenements, and negroes, from being attached for debt; the lords
+of trade at the same time represented, that the assemblies of those
+colonies could never be induced to divest themselves of these privileges
+by any act of their own. But whatever objections were made to the above
+acts, no general measure was adopted to obtain their repeal. They
+continued in being; but the hatters act was disregarded: and methods
+were devised for felling the prohibited trees, when the neighbourhood
+wanted a supply. The operation of the act designed for the benefit of
+creditors, was too often, as in other countries, weakened or evaded by
+the dishonest debtor. Men of principle gave themselves little concern
+about its existance, as they had nothing to fear from it, and knew that
+the same was intended to prevent persons being cheated out of their
+property.
+
+The sugar colonists combined together, and obtained an act against the
+trade carried on from the British northern provinces to the Dutch and
+French colonies, for foreign rum, sugar, and molasses. The act passed in
+1733, laid a duty of nine-pence a gallon on rum, six-pence a gallon on
+molasses, and five pounds on every hundred weight of sugar, that came
+not from the British West-India islands, and were brought into the
+nothern colonies. It was professedly designed as a prohibition from the
+foreign islands; but did not answer. It was found expedient, and for the
+general benefit, to admit of the molasses, &c. being mostly run into the
+colonies, without insisting upon the duties, or making frequent
+seizures. The act unhappily produced an illegal spirit of trading; but
+was continued by subsequent ones down to 1761; when the duty on the
+molasses was reduced to three-pence, to prevent its being run any
+longer. The act did not oppropriate the monies to be raised by the
+duties, so that when, in length of time, there was a sum in the hands of
+the receiver worth remitting, a demur ensued as to the application of
+it.
+
+The monies produced by this and other acts, were not considered as real
+_taxes_, either by the colonies or the mother country. But some persons
+wished to have taxes imposed upon them which would necessarily produce
+many good posts and places in _America_ for courtiers; and during the
+war with _Spain_, which broke out in 1739, a sheme for taxing the
+_British_ colonies was mentioned to Sir _Robert Walpole_. He smiled, and
+said, “I will leave that to some of my successors, who have more courage
+than I have, and are less friends to commerce than I am. It has been a
+maxim with me, during my administration, to encourage the trade of the
+_American_ colonies in the utmost latitude; nay, it has been necessary
+to pass over some irregularities in their trade with _Europe_; for by
+encouraging them to an extensive growing foreign commerce, if they gain
+£.500,000 I am convinced, that in two years afterwards full £.250,000 of
+their gains will be in his majesty’s exchequer, by the labour and
+produce of this kingdom, as immense quantities of every kind of our
+manufactures go thither; and as they increase in their foreign American
+trade, more of our produce will be wanted. This is taxing them more
+agreeably to their own constitution and ours.”
+
+Had the scheme for taxing the colonies been attempted, it would have
+occasioned a ferment that must have prevented those exertions in the
+common cause, which were given into by the _New-Englanders_, especially
+the _Bay-men_, so the inhabitants of the _Massachusetts Bay_ are
+frequently called.
+
+War being declared against _Spain_, a requisition of troops was made to
+the _Massachusetts_, and a larger number raised and embarked on his
+majesty’s service than was required, of whom, scarce one in fifty
+returned.
+
+[1744.] Upon receiving the declaration of war with _France_, the general
+court, then sitting, made immediate provision for raising forces for
+_Anapolis_, in Nova-Scotia: they happily arrived in season; and were the
+probable means of saving the country. Divers times afterward,
+Nova-Scotia, when attacked by the French, was relieved by the Bay-men;
+so that during that unprosperous war, possession was always kept of it
+for the crown of Great-Britain.
+
+[1745.] But the most important service to be mentioned, is the reduction
+of _Louisburg_. Governor _Shirley’s_ heart was set upon effecting it. He
+prevailed upon the two houses to lay themselves under an oath of
+secrecy; and then communicated his plan of the expedition. A committee
+was appointed to consider it, and were several days in deliberation.
+After mature consideration, a majority disapproved of the proposal. The
+report was accepted, and the members of the court laid aside all
+thoughts of the expedition. By the governor’s influence probably, as
+well as with his approbation, a petition from a number of merchants was
+presented to the house of representatives, praying a re-consideration of
+their vote, and their agreement to the governor’s proposal. A second
+committee reported in favour of it. The report was debated in the house
+the whole day. It is remarkable that Mr. _Oliver_[57] fell down and
+broke his leg, while going to the house, with a full design of opposing
+the expedition. His presence would have made a majority, and overset it;
+but this accident occasioned his absence; and upon the division in the
+house at night, the numbers were equal. The speaker, _Thomas
+Hutchinson_, esq.[58] was called upon to give the casting vote; which he
+did in favour of it, though he opposed it when in the committee. He was,
+probably, prevailed upon thus to vote, that he might secure the favour
+of the governor, and render himself the more popular.
+
+[Jan. 25.] The point being now settled, there is an immediate union of
+both parties; and all are equally zealous in carrying the design into
+execution. Messengers are dispatched as far as _Pennsylvania_, to
+entreat the junction of the several governments in the expedition. All
+excuse themselves, except _Connecticut_, _New-Hampshire_, and
+_Rhode-Island_. The first agrees to raise 500 men, the other two 300
+each. _Connecticut_ and _Rhode-Island_ consent also, that their colony
+sloops shall be employed as cruisers.
+
+The time for preparing is short. But the winter proves so favourable
+that all kinds of out-door business is carried on as well, and with as
+great dispatch as at any other season. The appointment of a general
+officer is of the utmost consequence. He must be acceptable to the body
+of the people; the inlistment depends upon this circumstance. It is not
+easy to find a person thus qualified, willing to accept. Colonel
+_Pepperrell_[59] has the offer from the governor: but it has rather
+pressed into the service than engage voluntarily. His example, in
+quitting for the present his extensive mercantile business, has
+considerable influence, and induces inferior officers, and even private
+soldiers, to quit their smaller concerns, for the service of their
+country. Governor Wentworth, of New-Hampshire, offers afterwards to take
+the command of the expedition. Two or three gentlemen of prudence and
+judgment, are consulted upon the occasion, by governor Shirley, who
+finds them clearly of opinion, that any alteration of the present
+command, would be attended with the greatest risk of entirely disgusting
+both the Massachusetts assembly and soldiers.[60] By the efforts of a
+general exertion in all orders of men, the armament is ready, sails, and
+arrives at _Canso_ the fourth of April. The _Bay-men_ consist of 3,250
+troops, exclusive of commission officers. The _New-Hampshire_ forces
+304, including officers, arrived four days before. The _Connecticut_,
+being 516, inclusive, arrive on the 25th. The 300 _Rhode-Islanders_ do
+not arrive till the place has surrendered.
+
+Toward the end of the month, commodore _Warren_ arrives from the
+West-Indies, with a sixty gun ship, and two of forty; and joins another
+of forty, which had reached _Canso_ the day before, in consequence of
+his orders, received while under sail from _Portsmouth_ in
+_New-Hampshire_, on her way to Britain. The men of war sail immediately
+to cruise before _Louisburg_. The forces soon follow, and land at
+_Chapeaurouge Bay_ the last day of April. The transports are discovered
+from the town early in the morning, which gives the inhabitants the
+first knowledge of the design.
+
+The second day after landing, 400 men march round behind the hills, to
+the north-east harbour, where they get about midnight, and fire all the
+houses and store-houses until they come within a mile of the grand
+battery. The clouds of thick smoke proceeding from the pitch, tar, and
+other combustibles, prevent the garrison’s discovering the enemy, though
+but a few rods distant. They expect the army upon them, and desert the
+fort, having thrown their powder into a well; but the cannon and shot
+are left, and prove of service to the Americans. A party, less than
+twenty, come up to the battery the next morning early; and seeing no
+signs of men, suspect a plot, and are afraid to enter. At length, an
+_Indian_, for a pint of rum, ventures in alone through an embrasure, and
+discovers the state of it to the rest, just as a number of French are
+re-landing to recover possession. The army has near two miles to
+transport their cannon, mortars, &c. through a morass. This must be done
+by mere dint of labour. The hardiest and strongest bodies are employed,
+and the service performed, agreeable to the advice of major Ezekiel
+Gilman, of Exeter, who having been used to draw the masts over the
+swamps, proposed making sleds to put the cannon, &c. upon, and then
+yoking the men together for draught. The men know nothing of regular
+approaches. They make merry with the terms _zigzags_ and _epaulements_;
+and taking advantage of the night, go on, void of art, in their own
+natural way.
+
+While the forces are busy ashore, the men of war and other vessels are
+cruising off the harbour, when the weather permits; and on the
+eighteenth of May, capture a French sixty-four gun ship, having 560 men
+on board, and stores of all sorts for the garrison. This prize, with the
+arrival of other British ships, make the commodore’s fleet eleven by the
+12th of June, consisting of a 64, four of 60 guns, one of 50, and five
+of 40. It is given out that an attack will be made by sea with the
+ships, on the eighteenth, while the army do the like by land. Whether a
+general storm is really intended or not, the French seem to expect it,
+from the preparations on board the men of war, and do not incline to
+stand it. On the fifteenth, a flag of truce is sent to the general,
+desiring a cessation of hostilities, that they may consider of articles
+for a capitulation. Time is allowed; but their articles are rejected by
+the general and commodore, and others offered, which are accepted by the
+French, and hostages exchanged. The city is delivered up on the 17th of
+June. But as it is the time to expect vessels from all parts to
+_Louisburg_, the French flag is kept flying as a decoy. Two East-India,
+and one South Sea ship, of the value of £.600,000 sterling, are taken by
+the squadron, at the mouth of the harbour, into which they undoubtedly
+meant to enter.
+
+The weather proved remarkably fine during the siege; the day after the
+surrender the rains began, and continued ten days incessantly, which
+would undoubtedly have proved fatal to the expedition, had not the
+capitulation prevented. It is not of material consequence for us to
+determine whether the land or sea force had the greatest share in the
+reduction of _Louisburg_. Neither would have succeeded alone. But there
+was certainly the strongest evidence of a generous, noble, public
+spirit, in the _New-Englanders_, which first inclined them to the
+undertaking, and of a firmness of mind in the prosecution of it; for the
+labour, fatigue, and other hardships of the siege were without parallel
+in all preceding American operations.[61] The paying of the charges of
+this expedition in 1748, lessens not the merit of the New-England
+attempt; for they began it when they had no promise, and very little
+prospect of being reimbursed. Had it not succeeded, they would not have
+been reimbursed, and must therefore have been involved in the greatest
+distress. This they foresaw, and yet cheerfully ran the risk for the
+public service. It would have cost the crown double the sum paid the
+New-England governments, to have sent an armament from Great-Britain for
+the reduction of the same place. The colonies met with a heavy loss, not
+easily repaired, in the destruction of the flower of their youth, by
+camp fevers, other sicknesses, the hardships and distresses of the
+siege. Of how much importance Louisburg was in the opinion of the
+French, appeared from their demanding two hostages of the first nobility
+in Britain as pledges for its restitution.
+
+Should you hereafter read, “The leading men in the government of the
+_Massachusetts_, having been guilty of certain mal-practices, for which
+they were in danger of being called to an account, projected the
+expedition against _Cape Breton_, in order to divert the storm: and
+proving successful, the English nation was so overjoyed that they forgot
+every other idea in the general transport, so that the planners and
+conductors of the expedition, instead of being called to an account for
+former misdemeanors, found themselves caressed and applauded”—believe it
+not—especially should the writer give “this public notice, I build
+nothing upon the present narration; and I only offer it (because not
+corroborated by sufficient evidence) as a probable case, and as my own
+opinion.”[62] Should he be a D. D. you may think it would have been well
+for him to have recollected the complaint of _Jeremiah_, “I heard the
+defaming of many; report, _say they_, and we will report;” and so to
+have been silent on the head of _Cape Breton_. Should you judge it
+uncharitable to retort upon him; yet you may deem it just to remind him
+of his own, do you find him using such like expressions as these, “As I
+never believed Dr. _Franklin_ in any public matter, excepting in his
+electrical experiments, I was resolved to see with my own eyes, whether
+what he advanced was true or not, having a strong suspicion that he
+fibbed designedly, like Sir _Henry Wotton_’s ambassador, _patriæ
+causa_.”[63]
+
+But to return, the year after the reduction of Louisburg [1746.]
+Great-Britain entertained the design of reducing _Canada_; and
+requisitions were made to the colonies, from New-Hampshire to Virginia,
+inclusive. It was expected that they should raise at least 5,000 men;
+they voted 8,200; and the _Massachusetts_, to the amount of 3,500, were
+ready to embark by the middle of July, about six weeks from the first
+notice.[64] Though the expedition was not prosecuted, this did not
+lessen the merit of the colonies in preparing to second the views of the
+British government.
+
+[1748.] No sooner were the distresses of war closed, by the renewal of
+peace, than the colonists, particularly of _New-England_, were alarmed
+with the report of an _American Episcopacy_; which it was the most
+earnest desire of Dr. _Thomas Secker_, late archbishop of _Canterbury_,
+to establish. The doctor, when bishop of _Oxford_, in his sermon before
+the society for propagating she gospel, &c. “began those invectives
+against the colonists and their religious character, which have been
+unwarily continued, and were founded entirely upon misinformations and
+misrepresentations of interested persons, the missionaries especially,
+who found their account in abusing better christians than
+themselves.”[65] This conduct had not the least tendency to reconcile
+them to the project, but the direct contrary: and argued a secret
+bitterness of spirit, which promised no great moderation, if the scheme
+of episcopising succeeded. The talk of introducing bishops into America,
+was very warm among the episcopalians in Connecticut; and it is not an
+uncharitable conjecture, that it originated from, or was promoted by the
+zeal of bishop Secker. During the height of the conversation, a worthy
+divine, now at Rhode-Island, had the hopes of a bishopric held out to
+him, to induce him to turn episcopalian, though without effect. The
+colonists had reason to dread the introduction of episcopacy, for it
+could not be thought it should come unaccompanied with such a degree of
+civil power as would at length trample upon the rights of other
+denominations. An extensive and united hierarchy, however named, when
+armed with civil authority and in alliance with state power, is a
+dangeaous engine, if under the direction of a crafty politician. The
+failure of the episcopising project at this period, might be owing in a
+great measure, to the part the _dissenting deputation_ acted upon the
+occasion: for which the representatives of the Massachusetts Bay
+returned them their thanks, in a message signed by the speaker.[66] But
+though the colonies were relieved from this cause of uneasiness, they
+were laid under another, by the parliament’s passing an act, enacting,
+“That from and after the twenty-fourth of June, 1750, no _mill_ or
+_other engine_ for _slitting_ or _rolling_ of _iron_, or any _platting
+forge_, to work with a _tilt hammer_, or any _furnace_ for _making
+steel_, shall be erected; or, after such erection, continued _in any of
+his majesty’s colonies in America_.”
+
+The four New-England colonies, however, had no just reason to complain,
+when the power of parliament passed an act [1751.] “to regulate and
+restrain paper bills of credit in said governments, and to prevent the
+same being legal tenders in payment of money;” as they had made the act
+absolutely necessary, that so British creditors might be secured from
+being defrauded by a legal tender of a depreciated and depreciating
+paper currency.
+
+The year after the peace, a grant of 600,000 acres of the finest
+American land in the neighbourhood of the _Ohio_, was made out to
+certain noblemen, merchants, and others, of _Westminster_, _London_, and
+_Virginia_, who associated under the title of the _Ohio Company_. The
+governor of Canada obtained early intelligence of it; and was alarmed
+with the apprehension that a scheme was in agitation, which would
+forever deprive the French of the advantage arising from the trade with
+the _Twightwees_, and cut off the communication so beneficial to the
+colonies of _Louisiana_ and _Canada_. He wrote therefore to the
+governors of _New-York_ and _Pennsylvania_, acquainting them that the
+English traders had encroached on the French territories, by trading
+with their Indians; and that if they did not desist, he should be
+obliged to seize them wherever they were found. This was the first time
+that either French or British had pretended to any exclusive trade with
+any Indians, or even the declared friends and allies of either; for it
+was expressly stipulated at the treaty of _Utrecht_, that, on both
+sides, the two nations should enjoy full liberty of going and coming
+among the Indians of either side, on account of trade; and that the
+natives of the Indian countries should, with the same liberty, resort as
+they pleased, to the British or French colonies, for the purpose of
+trade, without any molestation from either the British or French
+subjects.
+
+The British Indian trade had been carried on mostly with _Pennsylvania_
+by the river _Susquehanna_; a great part of it was now to be diverted
+into another channel by the _Ohio company_; who by opening a waggon road
+through the country, and building a truck-house at _Will’s-creek_, were
+providing for its being carried into _Virginia_ by the _Patomack_. The
+Pennsylvania traders, jealous of the Ohio company, were upon the watch
+to injure them, which soon offered, when Mr. _Gist_ was employed by the
+company, in surveying the lands upon the _Ohio_, in order to their
+procuring 600,000 acres of the best and most convenient for the Indian
+trade. He carefully concealed his design from the Indians, who were no
+less suspicious and inquisitive; and being jealous that he meant to
+settle their lands, made use of threats. They were not pacified till
+there was delivered to them a pretended message from the king of
+Great-Britain. The Pennsylvania traders, actuated by revenge, informed
+both French and Indians, what was the service on which he was employed;
+and while he was on his progress in the spring of 1771, some French
+parties, with their Indians, put the governor of Canada’s menace into
+execution, and [1753.] seized the British traders who were trading among
+the _Twightwees_, and carried them to a fort they were building on the
+south side of lake _Erie_. The British, alarmed at the capture of their
+brethren, retired to the Indian towns for shelter, and the _Twightwees_,
+resenting the violence done their allies, assembled to the number of
+five or six hundred, and scoured the woods till they found three French
+traders, whom they sent to Pennsylvania. The French, however, determined
+to persist; and proceeded to build a second fort, about fifteen miles
+south of the former, upon one of the branches of the Ohio. They also
+erected a fort at the conflux of the _Ohio_ and _Wabache_; and thus
+completed their designed communication between the mouth of the
+_Missisippi_ and the river _St. Lawrence_. Nothing was done by the
+Pennsylvania government, so that the French continued to strengthen
+themselves without interruption; and encouraged by the little notice
+taken of their violence, began to seize and plunder every British trader
+they found on any part of the Ohio.
+
+Repeated complaints were made to lieutenant governor _Dinwiddie_, of
+Virginia; and as the Ohio company, whose existence depended upon
+stopping the French encroachments and pretensions on that river, had
+great influence there, that colony was prevailed upon to act with some
+vigor.
+
+The lieutenant governor having informed the house of burgesses, on the
+first of November, that the French had erected a fort on the Ohio, it
+was resolved to send some body to Mr. _St. Pierre_, the French
+commandant, to demand the reason of his hostile proceedings, and to
+require him at the same time to withdraw his forces. Major _Washington_,
+who was of age only on the eleventh of the preceding February, offered
+his service on this important occasion. The distance he had to go was
+more than four hundred miles; two hundred of which lay through a
+trackless desert, inhabited by Indians; and the season was uncommonly
+severe. Notwithstanding these discouraging circumstances, the major,
+attended by one companion only, set out upon this hazardous enterprise.
+He travelled from Winchester on foot, carrying his provisions on his
+back. Upon his arrival at the place of destination and delivering his
+message, the French commandant refused to comply, denied the charge of
+hostilities, and said that the country belonged to the king of France;
+that no Englishman had a right to trade upon any of its rivers; and
+that, therefore, he would seize, according to orders, and send prisoners
+to Canada, every Englishman that should attempt to trade upon the Ohio
+or any of its branches. Before major _Washington_ had got back, or the
+Virginians had heard of the French commandant’s answer, they sent out
+proper people, provided with materials for erecting a fort at the
+conflux of the Ohio and Monongahela, whom he met on his return. After
+excessive hardships, and many providential escapes, during his long and
+tedious undertaking, he arrived safe at Williamsburgh, and gave an
+account of his negociation to the house of burgesses the 14th of
+February following.
+
+Before the Virginians had finished their fort, the French came upon
+them, drove them out of the country, and erected a regular fort on the
+very spot where they had been at work. The consent of the Indian
+warriors had not been gained by the Virginians, or they would have
+supported the British against the French attack.
+
+These proceedings of the French galled the British ministry. The Ohio
+Company whose schemes were now demolished, was their fondling. They
+could not submit to have their friends so treated; and therefore no
+sooner had they the news, than it was resolved to instruct the colonies
+to oppose the French encroachments by force of arms. The instructions
+were received at Virginia early in the spring of 1754. The Virginians
+applied to the other colonies for additional troops. Captain James
+Mackay, with his independent company, upon the first order marched with
+the utmost expedition from South Carolina to their assistance. Without
+waiting for two independent companies from New-York, who were likewise
+ordered to assist them, the Virginians resolved by themselves with
+Mackay’s company, to oppose the French encroachments; and sent off that
+and three hundred men raised by the colony, under the command of late
+major, but now colonel Washington. An engagement ensued between a party
+of French from fort _Du Quesne_, whom colonel Washington attacked and
+defeated, on the twenty-eight of May—which put Mr. _de Villier_ upon
+marching down against him with 900 men besides Indians, and attacking
+him on the third of July. Washington made so brave a defence behind a
+small incomplete intrenchment, called fort _Necessity_, that Villier
+seeing what desperate men he had to deal with, and desirous of saving
+his own, offered him an honorable capitulation; but the French officer
+was careful, in forming the articles, to throw the blame of the war upon
+the British, and to make it thought that they were the agressors.
+
+The lords commissioners for trade and plantations, had also recommended
+to the several colonies, to appoint commsssioners to meet each other.
+Their Lordships designed, that there should be a general league of
+friendship, between all the colonies, and the Indians, in his majesty’s
+name. The _Massachusetts_ general court not only acceded to the
+proposal, but both houses desired his excellency, governor _Shirley_
+(April 10.) “to pray his majesty, that affairs which relate to the six
+nations and their allies may be put under some general direction as his
+majesty shall think proper; that the several governors may _be obliged_
+to bear their proportions of defending his majesty’s territories against
+the encroachments of the French, and the ravages and incursions of the
+Indians.”
+
+[July.] A general meeting of the governors and chief men from several of
+the colonies, was held at _Albany_. At this congress, the commissioners
+were unanimously of opioion, that an _union of all the colonies_ was
+absolutely necessary for their common defence. The plan was, in short,
+“That a grand council should be formed of members, to be chosen by the
+assemblies, and sent from all the colonies; which council, together with
+a governor-general to be appointed by the crown, should be empowered to
+make general laws, to raise money in all the colonies for the defence of
+the whole.” It was drawn up by Mr. _Hutchinson_, was accepted, and sent
+home. Had it been approved and established, _British America_ thought
+itself sufficiently able to cope with the _French_ without further
+assistance; several of the colonies, in former years, having alone
+withstood the enemy, unassisted not only by the mother country, but by
+any of the neighbouring provinces. A _stamp act_ was talked of among the
+commissioners, of which number was Mr. (now Dr.) _Franklin_, one of the
+three from Pennsylvania; and it was thought a proper mode of taxing;
+under the apprehension, that in its operation it would affect the
+several governments fairly and equally. The idea of a stamp act had been
+held out, so early as 1739, in two publications drawn up by a club of
+American merchants at the head of whom were Sir _William Keith_,
+governor of Pennsylvania, Mr. _Joshua Gee_, and many others. They
+proposed, for the protection of the British traders among the Indians,
+the raising a body of regulars, to be stationed all along the western
+frontier of the British settlements; and that the expence should be paid
+from the monies arising from a duty on stamp paper and parchment in all
+the colonies to be laid on them by act of parliament. The congress plan
+was not agreeable to the views of ministry; another was proposed—“That
+the governors of all the colonies, attended by one or two members of
+their respective councils, should assemble, concert measures for the
+defence of the whole, erect forts where they judged proper, and raise
+what troops they thought necessary, with power to draw upon the British
+treasury for the sum that should be wanted; and the treasury to be
+re-imbursed by a tax laid on the colonies by an act of parliament.” When
+you are reminded, that the governors and councils were chiefly of the
+king’s appointing, you will be apt to view the scheme as a most subtle
+and dangerous contrivance, to provide for favorites, to sap the
+liberties of the Americans, and eventually to chain them down to the
+most abject slavery. Had the congress plan met with the countenance of
+minstry, it might have been adopted after a while; though of that, it
+appeared, there could be no certainty; for when the governor laid it
+before the _Massachusetts_ assembly in October, the assembly determined,
+not to give it the least countenance. The ministerial plan was
+transmitted to governor _Shirley_, who was known to be for the British
+parliament’s laying the tax. It was communicated by him to Mr. Franklin,
+then at his native place, Boston, who soon returned it with a few short
+remarks, and the next day sent the governor the following letter, _viz._
+
+
+                               “SIR,      _Wednesday morning, Dec. 1754_
+
+I mentioned it yesterday to your excellency, as my opinion, that
+excluding the people of the colonies from all share in the choice of the
+grand council, would probably give extreme dissatisfaction, as well as
+the taxing them by an act of parliament, where they have no
+representative. In matters of general concern to the people and
+especially where burthens are to be laid upon them, it is of use to
+consider, as well what they will be apt to think and say, as what they
+ought to think; I shall therefore, as your excellency requires it of me,
+briefly mention what of either kind occurs to me on this occasion.
+
+First, they will say, and perhaps with justice, that the body of the
+people in the colonies are as loyal, and as firmly attached to the
+present constitution and reigning family, as any subjects in the king’s
+dominions:
+
+That there is no reason to doubt the readiness and willingness of the
+representatives they may choose, to grant from time to time such
+supplies for the defence of the country, as shall be judged necessary,
+so far as their abilities will allow:
+
+That the people in the colonies, who are to feel the immediate mischiefs
+of invasion and conquest by an enemy, in the loss of their estates,
+lives and liberties, are likely to be better judges of the quantity of
+forces necessary to be raised and maintained, forts to be built and
+supported, and of their own abilities to bear the expence, than the
+parliament of England at so great a distance:
+
+The governors often come to the colonies merely to make fortunes with
+which they intend to return to Britain; are not always men of the best
+abilities or integrity; have many of them no estates here, nor any
+natural connections with us, that should make them heartily concerned
+for our welfare; and might possibly be fond of raising and keeping up
+more forces than necessary, from the profits accruing to themselves, and
+to make provision for their friends and dependants:
+
+That the counsellors in most of the colonies being appointed by the
+crown, on the recommendation of governors, are often of small estates,
+frequently dependent on the governors for offices, and therefore too
+much under influence;
+
+That there is, therefore, great reason to be jealous of a power in such
+governors and councils, to raise such sums as they shall judge
+necessary, by draft on the lords of the treasury, to be afterward laid
+on the colonies by act of parliament, and paid by the people here; since
+they might abuse it, by projecting useless expeditions, harrassing the
+people, and taking them from their labour to execute such projects,
+merely to create offices and employments, and gratify their dependants,
+and divide profits:
+
+That the parliament of England is at a great distance, subject to be
+misinformed and misled by such governors and councils, whose united
+interests might probably secure them against the effect of any complaint
+from hence:
+
+That it is supposed to be an undoubted right of _Englishmen_ not to be
+taxed but by their own consent given through their representatives:
+
+That the colonies have no representatives in parliament:
+
+That to propose taxing them by parliament, and refuse them the liberty
+of choosing a representative council, to meet in the colonies, and
+consider and judge of the necessity of any general tax, and the quantum,
+shows a suspicion of their loyalty to the crown, of their regard for
+their country, or of their common sense and understanding, which they
+have not deserved:
+
+That compelling the colonies to pay money without their consent, would
+be rather like raising contributions in an enemy’s, country, than taxing
+_Englishmen_ for their own public benefit:
+
+That it would be treating them as a conquered people, and not as true
+British subjects:
+
+That a tax laid by the representatives of the colonies might easily be
+lessened, as the occasion should lessen; but being once laid by
+parliament, under the influence of the representations made by
+governors, would probably be kept up, and continued for the benefit of
+governors, to the grievous burden and discouragement of the colonies,
+and prevention of their growth and increase:
+
+That a power in governors to march the inhabitants from one end of the
+British and French colonies to the other, being a country of at least
+1500 square miles, without the approbation or consent of their
+representatives first obtained, might occasion expeditions grievous and
+ruinous to the people, and would put them upon a footing with the
+subjects of France in Canada, that now groan under such oppression from
+their governor, who for two years passed, has harrassed them with long
+and destructive marches to the Ohio:
+
+That, if the colonies in a body may be well governed by governors and
+councils appointed by the crown without representatives, particular
+colonies may as well, or better, be so governed: a tax may be laid on
+them all by act of parliament for support of government, and their
+assemblies be dismissed as an useless part of the constitution:
+
+That the powers proposed by the _Albany_ plan of union, to be vested in
+a grand representative council of the people, even with regard to
+military matters, are not so great as those of the colonies of
+_Rhode-Island_ and _Connecticut_ are entrusted with by their charter,
+and have never abused: for by this plan, the president general is
+appointed by the crown, and controuls all by his negative; but in these
+governments the people choose the governor, and yet allow him no
+negative:
+
+That the British colonies bordering on the French, are properly
+frontiers of the British empire; and the frontiers of an empire are
+properly defended at the joint expence of the body of the people in such
+empire. It would now be thought hard, by act of parliament, to oblige
+the cinque ports, or sea coasts of Britain to maintain the whole navy,
+because they are more immediately defended by it; not allowing them at
+the same time, a vote in choosing the members of parliament; and if the
+frontiers in America must bear the expence of their own defence, it
+seems hard to allow them no share in voting the money, judging of the
+necessity and sum, or advising the measures:
+
+That besides the taxes necessary for the defence of the frontiers, the
+colonies pay yearly great sums to the mother country unnoticed; for
+taxes paid in Britain, by the landholder or artificer, must enter into
+and increase the price of the produce of land, and of manufactures made
+of it; and great part of this is paid by consumers in the colonies, who
+thereby pay a considerable part of the British taxes.
+
+We are restrained in our trade with foreign nations; and where we could
+be supplied with any manufacture cheaper from them, but must buy the
+same dearer from Britain, the difference of price is a clear tax to
+Britain. We are obliged to carry great part of our produce directly to
+Britain, and wherein the duties there laid upon it lessen its price to
+the planter, or it sells for less than it would in foreign markets, the
+defference is a tax paid to Britain.
+
+Some manufactures we could make, but are fobidden, and must take of
+_British_ merchants; the whole price of these is a tax paid to Britain.
+
+By our greatly increasing the demand and consumption of British
+manufactures, their price is considerably raised of late years; their
+advance is clear profit to Britain, and enables its people better to pay
+great taxes; and much of it being paid by us, is a clear tax to Britain.
+
+In short, as we are not suffered to regulate our trade, and restrain the
+importation and consumption of British superfluities, (as Britain can
+the consumption of foreign superfluities) our whole wealth centres
+finally among the merchants and inhabitants of Britain; and if we make
+them richer, and enable them better to pay their taxes, it is nearly the
+same as being taxed ourselves, and equally beneficial to the crown.
+These kind of secondary taxes, however we do not complain of, though we
+have no share in the laying or disposing of them: but to pay immediate
+heavy taxes, in the laying, appropriation, and disposition of which we
+have no part, and which, perhaps, we may know to be as unnecessary as
+grievous, must seem hard measure to _Englishmen_; who cannot conceive,
+that by hazarding their lives and fortunes, in subduing and settling new
+countries, extending the dominion, and increasing the commerce of their
+mother nation, they have forfeited the native rights of _Britons_, which
+they think ought rather to be given them as due to such merit, if they
+had been before in a state of slavery. These and such kind of things as
+these, I apprehend, will be thought and said by the people, if the
+proposed alteration of the Albany plan should take place. Then the
+administration of the board of governors and councils so appointed, not
+having any representative body of the people to approve and unite in its
+measures, and conciliate the minds of the people to them, will probably
+become suspected and odious: dangerous animosities and feuds will arise
+between the governors and governed, and every thing go into confusion.
+
+Perhaps I am too apprehensive in this matter; but having freely given my
+opinion and reasons, your excellency can judge better than I whether
+there be any weight in them; and the shortness of the time allowed me,
+will, I hope, in some degree, excuse the imperfections of this scrawl.
+
+With the geatest respect and fidelity, I have the honor to be, your
+excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant,
+
+                                                     BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.”
+
+
+These letters might be transmitted to, and might dispose the ministry to
+decline urging their plan of uniting and governing the colonies; but Mr.
+Shirley wrote to governor _Wentworth_, of _New-Hampshire_, May 31,
+1755—“I may assure your excellency, from every letter I have of late
+received from Sir Thomas Robinson, I have reason to think that his
+majesty hath a dependance upon a _common fund’s_ being raised in all his
+colonies upon this continent, in proportion to their respective
+abilities, for defraying all articles of expence entered into for their
+common defence; and that such an one must in the end, be either
+voluntarily raised, or else assessed in some way or other.” The ministry
+discovered a disposition to raise a revenue in them, which induced the
+_Massachusetts_ general court [Nov. 6.] thus to instruct their agent;
+“It is more especially expected, that you oppose every thing that shall
+have the remotest tendency to raise a _revenue_ in the plantations, for
+any public uses or services of government;” he wrote to them the
+twenty-ninth of May following, “The inclinations I have reason to think
+still contitinue for _raising a revenue_ out of the molasses trade.” The
+alarming state of public affairs might divert the ministry from pursuing
+their inclinations.
+
+It had been concluded to take effectual measures for driving the French
+from the _Ohio_; and for the reduction of _Niagara_, _Crown-Point_, and
+their forts in _Nova-Scotia_. General _Braddock_ was accordingly sent
+from Ireland to Virginia, with two regiments of foot; and when arrived,
+and joined by the rest of the forces destined for that service, found
+himself at the head of about 2200 men. He had bravery, but wanted other
+qualifications to render him fit for the service to which he was
+appointed. His severity prevented his having the love of the regulars;
+his haughtiness, the love of the Americans; and, what was worse,
+disgusted the Indians, and led him to despise the country militia, and
+to slight the advice of the Virginia officers. Colonel _Washington_
+earnestly begged of him, when the army was marching for fort _Du
+Quesne_, to admit of his going before, and scouring the woods with his
+rangers, which was contemptuously refused. The general had been
+cautioned by the duke of _Cumberland_, to guard against a surprise; and
+yet he pushed on heedlessly with the first division, consisting of 1400
+men [July 9, 1755.] till he fell into an ambuscade of 400, chiefly
+Indians, by whom he was defeated and mortally wounded, on the ninth of
+July. The regulars were put into the greatest panic, and fled in the
+utmost confusion; the militia had been used to Indian fighting, and were
+not so terrified. The general had disdainfully turned them into the
+rear: they continued in a body, unbroken, and served under colonel
+_Washington_ as a most useful rear-guard; covered the retreat of the
+regulars, and prevented their being entirely cut off.
+
+Previous to this, and agreeable to the views of the British ministry,
+the _Massachusetts_ assembly, who had never been remiss upon the
+prospect of a French war, raised a body of troops, which were sent to
+_Nova-Scotia_, to assist lieutenant governor _Lawrence_ in driving the
+French from their several encroachments within that province. The
+secrecy and dispatch used in this service, was rewarded with success.
+
+The expedition against Niagara was entrusted with governor Shirley; but
+failed through various causes.
+
+Sir _William_ (then colonel) _Johnson_, appointed to go against
+Crown-Point. The delays, slowness, and deficiency of preparations,
+prevented the several colonies joining their troops till about August.
+Meanwhile the active enemy had transported forces from _France_ to
+_Canada_, marched them down to meet the provincials, and attacked them;
+but, meeting with a repulse, lost six hundred men, besids having their
+general, baron _Dieskau_, wounded and made prisoner.
+
+The _Massachusetts_ the next year, raised a great armament to go to
+_Crown-Point_; but lord _Loudon_, on his arrival, did not think it
+proper that the forces should proceed. Afterward a temporary
+misunderstanding took place between his lordship and the general court;
+from his apprehending that they thought a provincial law necessary to
+enforce a British act of parliament, and were willing to dispute upon
+that subject. He determined to have no dispute, but that the troops
+under his command should be quartered agreeable to what he thought the
+public good required; and wrote to governor _Pownall_ [Nov. 15, 1757.]
+“I have ordered the messenger to wait but 48 hours in _Boston_; and if,
+on his return, I find things not settled, I will instantly order into
+_Boston_ the three battalions from New-York, Long-Island, and
+Connecticut; and if more are wanted, I have two in the Jerseys at hand,
+beside three in Pennsylvania.” Notwithstanding this declaration, on
+December the sixth, the legislature passed an act which led him to
+conceive that he was under an absolute necessity of settling the point
+at once, and therefore he ordered the troops to march. The general court
+finding how matters were going, did not venture upon extremities, but
+became pliable; so that his lordship wrote, December 26, “As I can now
+depend upon the assembly’s making the point of quarters easy in all time
+coming, I have countermanded the march of the troops.” The general court
+were certainly terrified; and to remove all unfavorable impressions,
+said, in the close of the address to the governor [Jan. 6, 1758.] “The
+authority of all acts of parliament which concern the colonies, and
+extend to them, is ever acknowledged in all the courts of law, and made
+the rule of all judicial proceedings in the province. There is not a
+member of the general court, and we know no inhabitant within the bounds
+of the government, that ever questioned this authority. To prevent any
+ill consequences that may arise from an opinion of our holding such
+principles, we now utterly disavow them, as we should readily have done
+at any time past, if there had been occasion for it; and we pray that
+his lordship may be acquainted therewith, that we may appear in a true
+light, and that no impressions may remain to our disadvantage.” However
+they might not question, whether the authority of acts of parliament,
+concerning and extending to the colonies, was made the rule of all
+_judicial_ proceedings in the province; yet you are not to infer from
+their disavowal of the contrary principle, that they admitted the right
+of parliament, either to impose internal taxes, or to controul their
+colonial government.
+
+When, happily for the British nation, the great Mr. _Pitt_ was placed at
+the head of the ministry, the face of affairs was soon changed; the war
+was prosecuted with unexampled success, and the enemy at length driven
+out of _America_. But the frequent delays given to the raising of the
+necessary supplies, especially in proprietary governments, through the
+refusal of their governors or councils, to admit that the estates of the
+proprietors should be taxed, led Mr. _Pitt_ to tell Mr. _Franklin_, that
+when the war closed, was he in the ministry, he should take measures to
+prevent its being in the power of the colonies to hinder government’s
+receiving the supplies that were wanted; and he added, that, was he not
+in the ministry, he would advise his successors to do it. What these
+measures were he did not mention. But toward the close of 1759, or the
+beginning of 1760, Mr. _Pitt_ wrote to _Francis Fauquier_, esq.
+lieutenant governor of _Virginia_, and mentioned in his letter, that
+though they had made grants to the colonies, yet, when the war was over,
+they should tax them, in order to _raise a revenue_ from them. Mr.
+_Fauquier_, in his answer, expressed his apprehension that the measure
+would occasion great disturbance. The answer might divert Mr. Pitt from
+his intention. Many months before, the present lord _Camden_ (then Mr.
+_Pratt_) said to Mr. _Franklin_, in a course of free conversation, “For
+all what you _Americans_ say of your loyalty, I know you will one day
+throw off your dependance upon this country; and notwithstanding your
+boasted affection to it, will set up for independence.” The other
+answered, “No such idea is entertained in the mind of the Americans; and
+no such idea will ever enter their heads, unless you grossly abuse
+them.” “Very true (replied Mr. _Pratt_) that is one of the main causes I
+see will happen, and will produce the event.”
+
+The colonies in general, and the Massachusetts in particular, complied
+with the requisitions of the minister, and shewed themselves ready to
+support his plans for the reduction of the French power. To assist and
+encourage their extraordinary exertions, the parliament granted them
+during the war, at different periods, no less than £.1,031,666 13s. 4d.
+But though the large importation of specie annually, did not answer one
+half or their expences, it was still of such benefit to each government,
+that they cheerfully seconded the views of ministry. Upon application
+from admiral _Saunders_, the squadron employed against _Louisburg_ and
+_Quebec_, was supplied by 500 seamen from the _Massachusetts_; beside,
+many were at several times impressed out of vessels on the fishing
+banks. The colonies lost by the war 25,000 of their robust young men,
+exclusive of sailors. The _Massachusetts_ continually raised the full
+number of troops assigned them; nor was it to be ascribed to the
+peculiar address of Mr. _Pownall_, who guided them with a silken cord,
+and by praising them plentifully, and flattering their vanity, did
+business with them in an easy manner; for it was the same after he was
+succeded by governor _Bernard_. [August 13, 1760.] Beside their annual
+quota of men, in some years of the war they garrisoned Louisburg and
+Nova-Scotia, which gave the regular forces opportunity for retaining
+Canada. The whole cost they were at upon these accounts, and for
+scouting companies sent into the Indian country, and for two armed
+vessels built and maintained for the protection of the trade, amounted
+to £.754,598 10s. 10½d. sterling. In this sum, the expence of many forts
+and garrisons on the frontiers is not included. Add, that no estimate
+can be made of the cost to individuals, by the demand of personal
+service. They that could not serve in person, who were much the greater
+number, when it came to their turn, were obliged to hire substitutes at
+a great premium. They also who could not be impressed, to lighten the
+burdens of others, advanced largely for encouraging the levies.
+Moreover, the taxes were exceeding heavy. A Boston gentleman, of
+reputation and fortune, sent one of his rate bills to a correspondent in
+London, for his judgment on it; and had for answer, “That he did not
+believe there was a man in all _England_ who paid so much in proportion
+toward the support of government.” Such was the assessment of the town
+in one of the years, that if a man’s income was £.60 per annum, he had
+to pay two-thirds or £.40 and in that proportion whether the sum was
+more or less; and if his house or land was valued at £.200 per annum, he
+was obliged to pay £.72 He had also to pay for his poll, and those of
+all the males in his house, more than sixteen years old, at the rate of
+14s. 3d. each: and to all must be added, the part he paid of the excise
+on tea, coffee, rum, and wine.[67] Other towns and colonies might not
+have been assessed so exorbitantly, but some must certainly have been
+burdened with taxes.
+
+The above statement of expences is thought to be more correct than what
+governor Bernard transmitted, in his letter of August 1, 1764, to the
+lords of trade, in which he wrote, “From 1754 to 1762, the sums issued
+amount to £.926,000 sterling; out of which deduct, received by
+parliamentary grant, £.328,000 and the ordinary expences of government
+estimated at £.138,000 there remains £.490,000 that is near £500,000
+sterling expended by this province in the extraordinary charges of the
+war within eight years. An immense sum for such a small state! the
+burden of which has been grievously felt by all orders of men.—Whereas
+if we compare this with the southern governments, Pennsylvania for
+instance, which has expended little more than they have received from
+parliament, and Maryland which has expended scarce any thing at all, we
+cannot sufficiently admire the inequality of the burden between one
+province and another, and when Pennsylvania has not been prevented by
+domestic dissensions, and have as it were done their best, they have
+sent to the field only 2,700 men, when this province has sent
+5,000—5,500, and one year 7,000. And notwithstanding the vast sums this
+province has raised, is has, by severe taxations, kept its debt under.
+
+The first part of governor _Bernard’s_ administration was agreeable to
+the _Massachusetts_ general court. The two houses, in answer to his
+speach, [May, 1761.] said, “It gives us pleasure to see, that the civil
+rights of the people are not in danger; nor are we in the least degree
+suspicious, that they ever will be, under your excellency’s
+administration. The experience we have had of your excellency’s
+disposition and abilities, encourage us to hope for a great share of
+public happiness under your administration.” The next year the governor
+told them, at the close of the session, [April 23, 1762.] “The unanimity
+and dispatch with which you have complied with the requisitions of his
+majesty, require my particular acknowledgment.” In his sheech he said,
+“Every thing that has been required of this province, has been most
+readily complied with.”
+
+[May 31, 1763.] Both houses in their address to him expressed themselves
+thus: “We congratulate your excellency upon that unanimity which your
+excellency recommends, and which was never greater in the province than
+at that time.”—The governor at the close of the session, declared his
+great satisfaction, in having observed, that the unanimity they assured
+him of, had fully evinced itself throughout all their proceedings. But
+the lieutenant governor, Mr. _Hutchinson_, gained after a while too much
+ascendency over him, and encouraged him in the pursuit of wrong
+measures, highly offensive to the colony. He had indeed done him an
+irreparable injury, not long after his coming to the chair. Colonel
+_James Otis_ (who was repeatedly returned for _Barnstable_, in
+_Plymouth_ county, notwithstanding the strenuous efforts which had been
+made to prevent it, on account of his siding with government) being a
+lawyer, had been promised by Mr. Shirley, when in the chair, to be made
+a judge of the superior court, upon an opportunity’s offering. The first
+vacancy which happened, was filled up by the appointment of the
+secretary’s son-in-law; for which Mr. Shirley apologized by pleading a
+promise made to the secretary, and his having forgotten the former one.
+Mr. Otis was satisfied with a fresh assurance of the next vacancy, which
+was considered by him in the light of a governmental promise; and it was
+expected that whenever a new vacancy happened, Mr. Otis would be
+appointed. There was no new vacancy till a short time after governor
+Bernard entered upon his administration, when chief justice _Sewall_
+died.—Upon this death, Mr. _James Otis_, the son, of whom there will be
+a call to make frequent mention, expressed himself as follows: “If
+governor Bernard does not appoint my father judge of the superior court,
+I will kindle such a fire in the province as shall singe the governor,
+though I myself perish in the flames.” Mr. Hutchinson, however hurried
+to Mr. Bernard, procured a promise, which being once given, the governor
+would not retract, and got himself appointed chief justice, by which he
+gratified both his ambition and covetousness, his two ruling passions.
+The friends of government regretted the appointment, foreboding the
+evils it would produce. The governor lost the influence and support of
+colonel Otis. The son quitted the law place he held; would never be
+persuaded to resume it, or to accept of another; joined himself to the
+party which was jealous that the views of administration were
+unfavorable to the rights of the colony, and stood ready to oppose all
+encroachments; and soon became its chief leader. He signalised himself
+by pleading in a most masterly manner, against granting _writs of
+assistance_ to custom-house officers. These writs were to give them,
+their deputies, &c. a general power to enter any houses, &c. that they
+would _say they suspected_. The custom-house officers had received
+letters from home, directing them to a more strenuous exertion in
+collecting the duties, and to procure writs of assistance. The idea of
+these writs excited a general alarm. A strong jealousy of what might be
+eventually the effect of them upon the liberties of the people,
+commenced. They might prove introductory to the most horrid abuses;
+which the meanest deputy of a deputy’s deputy might practise with
+impunity, upon a merchant or gentleman of the first character; and there
+would be the greater danger of such abuses, by reason of the immense
+distance of the scene of action from the seat of government. The voice
+of the complainant would not be heard three thousand miles off, after
+the servants of government had deafened the ears of administration by
+misrepresentations. From this period may be dated the fixed, uniform,
+and growing opposition which was made to the ministerial plans of
+encroaching upon the original rights and long established customs of the
+colony. In 1761, the officers of the customs applied to the superior
+courts for such writs. The great opposition that was made to it, and the
+arguments of Mr. _Otis_, disposed the court to a refusal; but Mr.
+_Hutchinson_, who had obtained the place of chief justice, prevailed
+with his brethren to continue the cause till next term; and in the mean
+time wrote to England, and procured a copy of the writ, and sufficient
+evidence of the practice of the exchequer there, after which, like writs
+were granted. But before this was effected, Mr. _Otis_ was chosen one of
+the representatives for Boston, by the influence of the friends to
+liberty; whose jealousies there and elsewhere, afterward increased
+apace, upon hearing that the British officers insisted frequently upon
+the necessity of regulating and _reforming_, as they stiled it, the
+colonial governments; and that certain travellers were introduced to
+particular persons [1762.] with a—“This is a gentleman employed by the
+earl of _Bute_ to travel the country, and learn what may be proper to be
+done in the grand plan of _reforming_ the _American governments_.” It
+was understood that their business was to make thorough observation upon
+the state of the country, that so the ministry might be enabled to judge
+what regulations and alterations could safely be made in the police and
+government of the colonies, in order to their being brought more
+effectually under the government of parliament. They were also, as much
+as possible, to conciliate capital and influential characters, to
+ministerial measures speedily to be adopted. The British ministry have
+been greatly mistaken, in supposing it is the same in _America_ as in
+their own country. Do they gain over a gentleman of note and eminence in
+the colonies, they make no considerable acquisition. He takes few or
+none with him; and is rather despised than adhered to by former friends.
+He has not, as in Britain, dependants who must act in conformity to his
+nod. In _New-England_ especially, individuals are so independent of each
+other, that though there may be an inequality in rank and fortune, every
+one can act freely according to his own judgment.
+
+But nothing, it may be, excited a greater alarm in the breasts of those
+to whom it was communicated, than the following anecdote, viz. The Rev.
+Mr. _Whitefield_, ere he left _Portsmouth_ in _New-Hampshire_, on Monday
+afternoon, April the second, 1764, sent for Dr. _Langdon_ and Mr. Haven,
+the congregational ministers of the town, and upon their coming and
+being alone with him, said, “I can’t in conscience leave the town
+without acquainting you with a secret. My heart bleeds for _America_. O
+poor _New-England_! There is a deep laid plot against both your civil
+and religious liberties, and they will be lost. Your golden days are at
+an end. You have nothing but trouble before you. My information comes
+from the best authority in _Great Britain_. I was allowed to speak of
+the affair in general, but enjoined not to mention particulars. Your
+liberties will be lost.”[68] Mr. Whitefield could not have heard what
+the commons did in the preceding month; his information must have been
+of an earlier date, and might have been communicated before he left
+Great Britain. Beside the general design of taxing the colonies, the
+plan was probably, this in substance—Let the parliament be engaged to
+enter heartily and fully into American matters; and then under its
+sanction let all the governments be altered, and all the councils be
+appointed by the king, and the assemblies be reduced to a small number
+like that of New-York. After that, the more effectually to secure the
+power of civil government by the junction of church influence, let their
+be a revisal of all the acts in the several colonies with a view of
+setting aside those in particular, which provide for the support of the
+ministers. But if the temper of the people make it necessary, let a new
+bill for the purpose of supporting them pass the house, and the council
+refuse their concurrence; if that will be improper, then the governor to
+negative it. If that cannot be done in good policy, then the bill to go
+home and let the king disallow it. Let bishops be introduced, and
+provision be made for the support of the episcopal clergy. Let the
+congregational and presbyterian clergy, who will receive episcopal
+ordination, be supported; and the leading ministers among them be bought
+off by large salaries.—Let the liturgy be revised and altered. Let
+episcopacy be accommodated as much as possible to the cast of the
+people. Let places of power, trust and honor, be conferred only upon
+episcopalians, or those that will conform. When episcopacy is once
+thoroughly established, increase its resemblance to the English
+hierarchy at pleasure.
+
+These were the ideas which a certain gentleman communicated to Dr.
+Stiles,[69] when they were riding together in 1765. The Doctor, after
+hearing him out, expressed his belief, that before the plan could be
+effected, such a spirit would be roused in the people as would prevent
+its execution. The good man groaned and replied, “If the commotions now
+existing prevail on the parliament to repeal the stamp-act, I am afraid
+the plan cannot be accomplished.
+
+In reference to alterations in the civil line, Dr. Langdon informed me,
+that governor _Wentworth_ told him, the _Massachusetts_ and
+_New-Hampshiere_ were to be one government, under one governor; the
+Doctor thought the design of joining _Rhode-Island_ with them was also
+mentioned, though of this he could not be certain. The New-England
+colonies would have suffered most by the proposed alterations, while
+they deserved it the least and were entitled for their ready exertions,
+to a return expressive of gratitude. Many of the common soldiers, who
+gained such laurels, by their singular bravery on the plains of Abraham,
+when Wolfe died in the arms of victory, were natives of the
+Massachusetts-Bay. When Martinico was attacked in 1761, and the British
+force was greatly weakened by the death and sickness, the timely arrival
+of the New-England troops, enabled the former to prosecute the reduction
+of the island to an happy issue. A part of the British force being now
+about to sail from thence for the Havannah, the New-Englanders, whose
+health had been much impaired by service and the climate, were sent off
+in three ships, to their native country for recovery. Before they had
+completed their voyage they found themselves restored, ordered the ships
+about, steered immediately for the Havannah, arrived when the British
+were too much reduced to expect success, and by their junction served to
+immortalize afresh, the glorious first of August, old stile, in the
+surrender of the place on the memorable day; they exhibited at the same
+time, the most signal evidence of devotedness to the parent state. Their
+fidelity, activity, and courage were such as to gain the approbation and
+confidence of the British officers.[70]
+
+As to the religious part of the plan, recollect what has been already
+mentioned of archbishop _Secker_; carefully peruse Dr. _Mayhew’s_ noted
+answer to one of his publications, and what is related concerning him in
+the collection of papers above quoted; and you will scarce doubt, “but
+that it was the metropolitan’s intention to reduce all the British
+colonies under episcopal authority.” Remember also, that the bishop of
+_Landaff_ in his sermon of 1766, assures us, that _the establishment of
+episcopacy_ being obtained, “the _American_ church will grow out of its
+infant state, be able to stand upon its own legs, and without foreign
+help, support and spread itself, and _then this society will be brought
+to the happy issue intended_.” Mr. Whitefield said upon it, in his
+letter to Mr. _Durell_, “supposing his lordship’s assertions true, then
+I fear it will follow, that a society, which since its first institution
+hath been looked upon as _a society for propagating the gospel_, hath
+been all the while rather _a society for propagating episcopacy in
+foreign parts_.”
+
+This letter will close with a few more articles of information. Among
+the original instructions to _Benning Wentworth_, esq. governor of
+New-Hampshire, signed June 30th, 1761, the 27th says, “you are not to
+give your assent to, or pass any law imposing duties on negroes imported
+into New-Hampshire:” some of the colonies were for discouraging the
+introduction of negroes—for which purpose they wished to lay a duty upon
+them. The 69th contains the following direction, “No school-master to be
+henceforth permitted to come from England without the licence of the
+bishop; and no other person now there, or that shall come from other
+parts, shall be admitted to keep school without your licence first
+obtained.”
+
+[Feb. 1762.] A law passed in the Massachusetts, entitled, “An act to
+incorporate certain persons, by the name of _The society for promoting
+Christian knowledge among the Indians in North America_; but was
+disallowed at the court of St. James’s the 20th of May, 1763. Mr.
+_Jasper Mauduit_, in his letter to Mr. _Bowdoin_ of April 7, 1763,
+writes, “So long ago as the 10th of December, I was told at the
+plantation-office, that this act was opposed by the archbishop and the
+society for propagating the gospel. Mr. _Pownall_ told me that the bill
+would not pass; that the lords would not dispute the laudableness of the
+design, but there were political reasons for not confirming it; that the
+people might apply the money to oppose the missionaries of the church of
+England. I answered, I wished that the society for propagating the
+gospel had employed their missionaries more among the Indians than they
+had hitherto done in North America.” From what passed, the real reasons
+for disallowing the bill may be gathered.
+
+
+
+
+                              LETTER III.
+
+
+                                           _Roxbury, December 24, 1772._
+
+[1763.] Mr. _Israel Mauduit_, the Massachusetts agent, gave early notice
+of the ministerial intentions to tax the colonies; but the general court
+not being called together till the latter end of the year, instructions
+to the agent, though solicited by him, could not be sent in season.
+
+[1764.] The house of representatives came to the following
+resolutions—“That the sole right of giving and granting the money of the
+people of that province, was vested in them as their legal
+representatives; and that the imposition of duties and taxes by the
+parliament of Great-Britain, upon a people who are not represented in
+the house of commons, is absolutely irreconcileable with their rights.”
+“That no man can justly take the property of another without his
+consent; upon which original principle, the right of representation in
+the same body which exercises the power of making laws for levying
+taxes, one of the main pillars of the _British constitution_, is
+evidently founded.”
+
+These resolutions were occasioned by intelligence of what had been done
+in the British house of commons. It had been there debated in March,
+whether they had a _right_ to tax the _Americans_, they not being
+represented, and determined unanimously in the affirmative. Not a single
+person present ventured to controvert the _right_. Soon after, the sugar
+or molasses act was passed; [April 5.] and “it is certainly true, that
+till then, no act avowedly for the purpose of revenue, and with the
+ordinary title and recital taken together, is found in the statute book.
+All before stood on _commercial_ regulations and restraints.”[71] It is
+stiled “an act for granting certain duties in the British colonies and
+plantations in America, for continuing, amending, and making perpetual,
+an act passed in the sixth year of George the second (entitled an act
+for the better securing and encouraging the trade of his majesty’s
+colonies in America) for applying the produce of such duties, &c.” From
+its perpetuating the sugar act of George II. it is called the sugar or
+molasses act. It runs thus, “Whereas it is expedient that new provisions
+and regulations should be established in improving the revenue of this
+kingdom, and for extending and securing the navigation and commerce
+between Great-Britain and your majesty’s dominions in America—And
+whereas it is just and necessary, that a _revenue_ be raised in
+_America_ for defraying the expences of defending, protecting, and
+securing the same—We, the commons, &c. toward raising the same, give and
+grant unto your majesty, after the 29th of September, 1764, upon clayed
+sugar, indigo and coffee of foreign produce—upon all wines, except
+French—upon all wrought silks, Bengals and stuffs mixed with silk of
+Persia, China, or East-India manufacture—and all calicoes painted,
+printed or stained there (certain specified duties)—upon every gallon of
+molasses and syrups, being the produce of a colony not under the
+dominion of his majesty, the sum of three-pence—the monies arising,
+after charges of raising, collecting, &c. are to be paid into the
+receipt of his majesty’s exchequer—shall be entered separate, and be
+reserved to be disposed of by parliament, toward defraying the necessary
+expences of defending, &c. the British colonies.” The wording of the act
+might induce the colonies to view it as the beginning of sorrows; and
+they might fear that the parliament would go on in charging them with
+such taxes as it pleased, for such military forces as it should think
+proper.—This ill prospect seemed to the Americans boundless in extent,
+and endless in duration.
+
+They objected not to the _parliament’s right of laying duties to
+regulate commerce_; but the _right of taxing them_ was not admitted. The
+ministerial plan sent to Mr. Shirley in 1754, occasioned much
+conversation on the subject, and the common opinion was, that the
+parliament could not tax them till duly represented in that body,
+because it was not just, nor agreeable to the nature of the English
+constitution. But though few or none were willing to admit the _right_,
+the generality were cautious, how they denied the _power_, or the
+obligation to submit on the part of the Americans, when the power was
+exercised. Even Mr. _Otis_ tells us, “we must and ought to yield
+obedience to an act of parliament, though erroneous, till repealed.”[72]
+“The power of parliament, is uncontrolable, but by themselves, and we
+must obey. There would be an end of all government, if one or a number
+of subordinate provinces should take upon themselves so far as to judge
+of the justice of an act of parliament, as to refuse obedience to it. If
+their was nothing else to restrain such a step, prudence ought to do it;
+for forcibly resisting the parliament and the king’s law is high
+treason. Therefore let the parliament lay what burthens they please upon
+us we must, it is our duty to submit, and patiently to bear them, till
+they will be pleased to relieve us.”[73] He went so far as to publish
+“It is certain that the parliament of Great-Britain has a just and
+equitable right, power and authority, to impose taxes on the colonies,
+internal and external, on lands as well as on trade.”[74] “The supreme
+legislative represents the whole society or community, as well the
+dominions as the realm. This is implied in the idea of a supreme power;
+and if the parliament had not such an authority, the colonies would be
+independent.”[75] But the two last quotations were extorted from him
+through fear of being called to an account for the part he had acted, or
+for what he had before advanced in print, conversation or debate. His
+first pamphlet, _The Rights of the_ BRITISH _Colonies_, which had been
+twice read over in the house of assembly within the space of five days,
+though guarded by some expressions, had a strong tendency to excite a
+powerful opposition to ministerial plans; especially where he says, “I
+cannot but observe here, that if the parliament have an equitable right
+to tax our trade, it is indisputable, that they have as good a one to
+tax the lands and every thing else. There is no foundation for the
+distinction some make in England, between an internal and external tax
+on the colonies.”[76] These expressions could not but spread a general
+alarm through the country, and enflame every planter against
+parliamentary taxation. The house had so high an opinion of this
+pamphlet, that they ordered it to be sent over to Mr. _Mauduit_, with a
+letter, wherein they instructed him to use his indeavours to obtain a
+repeal of the sugar act, and to exert himself to prevent a stamp act, or
+any other imposition and taxes upon this and the other American
+provinces. They do not appear to have made any particular objection to
+the term _revenue_ introduced into the sugar act; but to have confined
+their objections to the laying on of the duty, when they were not
+represented.
+
+The act disgusted the more, because of its being so unseasonable. The
+duties were to be paid in specie, while the old means of procuring it
+were cut off. The ministry, resolved to prevent smuggling, obliged all
+sea officers, stationed on the American coasts, to act in the capacity
+of the meanest revenue officers, making them submit to the usual
+custom-house oaths and regulations for that purpose. This proved a great
+grievance to the American merchants and traders. Gentlemen of the navy
+were unacquainted with custom-house laws. Many illegal seizures were
+made. No redress could be had but from Britain, which it was tedious and
+difficult to obtain. Beside, the _American_ trade with the _Spaniards_
+by which the British manufactures were vended in return (for gold and
+siver in coin or bullion, cochineal, &c. as occasion served) was almost
+destroyed instantly, by the armed ships under the new regulations. The
+trade was not literally and strictly according to law, but highly
+beneficial; and a thorough statesman would have declined employing his
+own navy in crushing it. The trade also from the northern colonies with
+the _French West-India_ islands was nearly suppressed. These irritating
+measures strengthened the opposition to the sugar act.
+
+[June 13.] The Massachusetts assembly, who were the first representative
+body that took the act into consideration, ordered, that Mr. _Otis_ and
+four others of the house should be a committee in the recess of the
+court, to write to the other governments, and acquaint them with the
+instructions voted to be sent to their agent; and that the said
+committee, in the name and behalf of the house, should desire the
+several assemblies on the continent to join with them in the same
+measures. The committee attended to the business; and the end proposed
+by it was answered: committees were moreover appointed by divers other
+colonies to correspond with the several assemblies, or committees of
+assemblies on the continent. Thus a new kind of correspondence was
+opened between the colonies, tending to unite them in their operations
+against ministerial encroachments on their privileges, and which proved
+of great advantage to them afterward.
+
+[Oct. 24.] At the next session a committee was appointed to consider the
+state of the province, as it might be affected by certain duties and
+taxes laid, and proposed to be laid by acts of parliament upon the
+colonies. The consequence was, a committee of the council and house to
+prepare an address to the parliament. The lieutenant governor, Mr.
+_Hutchinson_, who was of the council, was chairman, but declined drawing
+up any. Several were proposed, which expressed in strong terms an
+exclusive right in the assembly to impose taxes. He urged the indecency
+and bad policy, when they had the resolutions of the house of commons
+before them, of sending an address, asserting, in express words, the
+contrary. Many days having been spent upon the business, at the desire
+of the committee he drafted an address, which considered the _sole
+power_ of taxation as an indulgence of which they prayed the
+continuance, and it was _unanimously_ agreed to. The petition does not
+intimate the least denial of the right of parliament to tax them; but
+sets forth the impolicy of the laws, and the hardships brought upon the
+petitioners, and prays that they may be relived from the burdens brought
+upon them by the sugar sct; that the privileges of the colonies relative
+to their internal taxes, which they have so long enjoyed, may be still
+continued; or that the consideration of such taxes as are proposed to be
+laid upon the colonies may be referred, until the petitioners, in
+conjunction with the other governments, can have an opportunity to make
+a full representation of the state and condition of the colonies, and
+the interest of Great-Britain with regard to them. The proceeding of the
+general court was approved of out of doors, until the copy of the
+_New-York_ address was received, which was so high, that many of the
+friends of liberty were mortified at their own conduct, and if possible,
+would gladly have recalled their own doings.[77]
+
+[Nov. 18.] The Massachusetts petition was forwarded by governor Bernard,
+and accompanied with a letter to lord _Halifax_; in which he wrote,
+“Massachusetts is the only one of the old colonies, that I know of, that
+enjoys a specie currency. This reflects great honor upon the province
+itself, as it is a great instance of their prudence, who took hold of a
+singular opportunity to destroy their paper money, which other colonies
+who had it equally in their power neglected. But I fear, that if the
+great sums which are expected to be raised in America are to be
+transported to Great-Britain, there will soon be an end to the specie
+currency of the Massachusetts, which will be followed by a total
+discouragement for other provinces to attempt the same in future. In
+which case, perpetual paper money, the very negative power of riches,
+will be the portion of America.” After arguing against the duties, from
+America’s being unable, for want of a sufficient specie currency, to pay
+them without being drained of their specie, as it would require a dead
+stock of three years value of the annual income of the revenues, he
+added, “If due care be taken to confine the sale of manufactures and
+Eoropean goods (except what shall be permitted) to Great-Britain only,
+all the profits of the American foreign trade will necessarily centre in
+Great-Britain; and therefore if the first purpose is well secured, the
+foreign American trade is the trade of Great-Britain. The augmentation
+and diminution, the extension and restriction, the profit and loss of it
+all, finally comes home to the mother country. It is the interest of
+Great-Britain, that the trade to both the Spanish and French West-Indies
+should be encouraged as much as may well be, and the British West-Indies
+should be taught that equitable maxim, _live and let live_. It appeared
+to be the decided opinion of the governor, that the sending home the
+produce of the duties and taxes proposed, would take from the Americans
+the means of trade, and render it impracticable for them to make
+remittances to Great-Britain.
+
+The _Virginia_ council and house of burgesses petitioned the king,
+presented a memorial to the house of lords, ramonstrated to the house of
+commons. _New-York_, _Rhode-Island_, &c. petitioned.
+
+The _New-York_ petition was conceived in such strong terms, and deemed
+so inflammatory, that their agent could not prevail on any one member of
+the house to present it.
+
+The colonies denied the _parliamentary right of taxation_ many months
+before any member of the British parliament uttered a single syllable to
+that purpose: and the American opposition to the stamp act was fully
+formed before it was known by the colonists that their cause was
+espoused by any man of note at home, as _Britain_ is stiled.
+
+Beside the colonial proceedings related above, it must be noted, that
+the inhabitants of several places met, and agreed not to buy any
+clothing (they could do without) which was not of their own
+manufacturing. Divers associations also were formed, all of whom
+resolved to consume as few British manufactures as possible.
+
+The raising of a revenue from the molasses trade, and a fund to defray
+the expences of denfeding the colonies, were in contemplation nine years
+before;[78] but the resolutions taken by the house of commons in the
+beginning of this year, might be forwarded by Mr. _Huske_, an
+_American_, a native of _Portsmouth_ in _New-Hampshire_, who a short
+time before obtained a seat in parliament. Instead of standing forth a
+firm advocate for the country which gave him birth, he officiously
+proposed to the house laying a tax on the colonies that should annually
+amount to five hundred thousand pounds sterling, which he declared they
+were well able to pay: and he was heard with great joy and
+attention.[79] He, or some other, recollecting that the stamp act was
+talked of by the commissioners at Albany in 1754, might suggest that
+mode of taxing: for whatever was thought, _the stamp act was not
+originally Mr. Grenville’s_.[80]
+
+The dispositon to tax the _Americans_, unless they would tax themselves
+equal to the wishes of the ministry, was undoubtedly strengthened by the
+reports of their gaiety and luxuary, which reached the mother country:
+it was also said, that the planters lived like princes, while the
+inhabitants of _Britain_ laboured hard for a tolerable subsistence. The
+officers lately returned, represented them as rich, wealthy, and even
+overgrown in fortune. Their opinion might arise from observations made
+in the American cities and towns during the war, while large sums were
+spent in the country for the support of fleets and armies. American
+productions were then in great demand, and trade flourished. The people,
+naturally generous and hospitable, having a number of strangers among
+them, indulged themselves in many uncommon expences. When the war was
+terminated, and they had on further apprehension of danger, the power of
+the late enemy in the country being totally broken—_Canada_, and the
+back lands to the very banks of the _Missisippi_, with the _Floridas_,
+being ceded to _Great-Britain_—it was thought they could not well make
+too much of those who had so contributed to their security. Partly to do
+honor to them, and partly, it is to be feared, to gratify their own
+pride, they added to their show of plate, by borrowing of their
+neighbours, and made a great parade of riches in their several
+entertainments. The plenty and variety of provisions and liquors anabled
+them to furnish out an elegant table at comparatively trifling expence.
+
+Mr. _Grenville’s_ intended stamp act was communicated to the American
+agents. Many of them did not oppose it. Half their number were placemen,
+or dependent on the ministry. Mr. _Joseph Sherwood_, an honest quaker
+agent for _Rhode-Island_, refused his assent to America’s being taxed by
+a British parliament. Mr. _Mauduit_, the Massachusetts agent, favored
+the raising of the wanted money of a stamp duty, as it would occasion
+less expence of officers, and would include the West-India islands. But
+the scheme was postponed, and the agents authorised to inform the
+American assemblies, that they were at liberty to suggest any other way
+of raising monies; and that Mr. Grenville was ready to receive proposals
+for any other tax that might be equivalent in its produce to the stamp
+tax. The colonies seemed to consider it as an affront, rather than a
+compliment. He would not have been content with any thing short of a
+certain specific sum, and proper funds for the payment of it. Had not
+the sums been answerable to his wishes, he would have rejected them; and
+he would scarce have been satisfied with less than £.300,000 per annum,
+which was judged absolutely necessary to defray the whole expence of the
+army proposed for the defence of America: he might rather have expected
+that it should amount to what Mr. _Huske_ had mentioned. No satisfactory
+proposals being made, he adhered to his purpose of bringing forward the
+stamp bill, though repeatedly pressed by some of his friends to desist,
+while he might have done it with honor. _Richard Jackson_, esq. had been
+chosen agent for the Massachusetts; he, with Mr. _Ingersoll_, Mr.
+_Garth_, and Mr. _Franklin_, lately come from Philadelphia, waited on
+Mr. _Grenville_ the second of February, 1765, by desire of the colonial
+agents, to remonstrate against the stamp bill, and to propose, that in
+case any tax must be laid upon America, the several colonies might be
+permitted to lay the tax themselves. At this interview Mr. _Jackson_
+opened his mind freely on the subject; and Mr. _Franklin_, as must be
+supposed, mentioned, that he had it in instruction from the assembly of
+_Pennsylvania_, to assure the ministry, that they should alway think it
+their duty to grant such aids to the crown as were suitable to their
+circumstances, whenever called for in the usual constitutional manner.
+Mr. Grenville, however, pertinaciously adhered to his own opinions; and
+said, that he had _pledged his word for offering the stamp bill to the
+house_, and that the house would hear their objections, &c. &c.
+
+The bill was brought in; and on the first reading, Mr. _Charles
+Townsend_ spoke in its favor. He took notice of several things that
+colonel _Barre_ had said in his speech against it; and then concluded
+with the following or like words: “And now will these _Americans_,
+children planted by our care, nourished up by our indulgence, until they
+are grown to a degree of strength and opulence, and protected by our
+arms, will they grudge to contribute their mite to relieve us from the
+heavy weight of that burden which we lie under?”
+
+On this colonel _Barre_ rose, and, after explaining some passages in his
+speech, took up Mr. _Townsend_’s concluding words in a most spirited and
+inimitable manner, saying, “_They planted by_ YOUR _care_! No, your
+oppressions planted them in America. They fled from your tyranny, to a
+then uncultivated and unhospitable country, where they exposed
+themselves to almost all the hardships to which human nature is liable;
+and, among others, to the cruelties of a savage foe, the most subtle,
+and I will take upon me to say, the most formidable of any people upon
+the face of God’s earth; and yet, actuated by principles of true English
+liberty, they met all hardships with pleasure, compared with those they
+suffered in their own country, from the hands of those that should have
+been their friends. _They nourished up by_ YOUR _indulgence_! They grew
+by your neglect of them. As soon as you began to care about them, that
+care was exercised in sending persons to rule them, in one department
+and another, who were, perhaps, the deputies of deputies to some members
+of this house, sent to spy out their liberties, to misrepresent their
+actions, and to pry upon them—men, whose behaviour on many occasions,
+has caused the blood of those _sons of liberty_ to recoil within
+them—men promoted to the highest seats of justice; some who to my
+knowledge were glad, by going to a foreign country, to escape being
+brought to the bar of a court of justice in their own. _They protected
+by_ YOUR _arms_! They have nobly taken up arms in your defence; have
+exerted a valor, amidst their constant and laborious industry, for the
+defence of a country, whose frontier was drenched in blood, while its
+interior parts yielded all its little savings to your emolument. And
+believe me, remember I this day told you so, that same spirit of
+freedom, which actuated that people at first, will accompany them
+still—but prudence forbids me to explain myself further. God knows I do
+not at this time speak from motives of party heat; what I deliver are
+the genuine sentiments of my heart. However superior to me in general
+knowledge and experience the respectable body of this house may be, yet
+I claim to know more of America than most of you, having seen and been
+conversant in that country. The people, I believe, are as truly loyal as
+any subjects the king has; but a people jealous of their liberties, and
+who will vindicate them if ever they should be violated—but the subject
+is too delicate—I will say no more.” These sentiments were thrown out so
+entirely without premeditation, so forcibly and so firmly, and the
+breaking off was so beautifully abrupt, that the whole house sat a while
+amazed, intently looking, without answering a word.
+
+The London merchants trading to America, being much alarmed on account
+of their outstanding debts, petitioned against the stamp act. Their
+petition was offered at the second reading of the bill. The rule of the
+house, never to receive petitions against money bills, was urged.
+General _Conway_ observed, that it appeared undeniable, that the
+practice was by no means invariable; at best it was but a practice of
+convenience, from which they ought, in the present instance, to vary.
+The ministry publicly declared, “_That it was intended to establish the
+power of Great-Britain to tax the colonies_.” They were induced to make
+a point of it, because most of the petitions from thence denied, in the
+strongest terms, the right of Britain to impose taxes. It was evident
+that the ministerial forces would prevail, the petition of the London
+merchants was therefore withdrawn. After that the others from the
+colonies were offered, but rejected upon the plea taken from the rule of
+the house. During the debate upon the bill, in this stage of it,
+“General _Conway_ denied the _right_ of parliament to tax the
+_Americans_, in the most peremptory manner; and urged, with great
+vehemence, the many hardships, and what he was pleased to call
+absurdities that would follow from the contrary doctrine and
+practice.”[81] Alderman Beckford also disputed the right of parliament,
+according to Mr. Ingersoll’s letter.
+
+The supporters of the stamp act insisted much upon the colonies being
+_virtually_ represented, and mentioned _Leeds_, _Halifax_, _Birmingham_,
+_Manchester_, &c. as enjoying a _virtual representation_. Whoever had a
+recourse to a _virtual representation_ of the colonies, in vindication
+of the parliament’s taxing them, therein acknowledged, that there ought
+not to be taxation without representation. But the difference between
+_Leeds_, _Halifax_, &c. and the _American_ colonies, is as wide as the
+_Atlantic_. The landholders of those towns enjoy a real representation,
+if their freeholds yield a certain annual income. Many of the
+inhabitants have a choice in the election of members, in one place or
+another. The general interests of the freeholders and tenants, electors
+and non-electors, are so interwoven, that all are liable to be equally
+affected by the same common taxes. The one pays the same duty on his
+sugar, tea, coffee, and chocolate, as the other. The relative connection
+between them, produces what may be called, with a kind of propriety, a
+_virtual representation_; answering, though in a lower degree, to what
+the family of a freeholder or freeman enjoys. But was all the soil in
+the British colonies a man’s freehold, it would not give him a single
+vote for any one member of parliament. There is not an individual in
+them, who, should he cross the Atlantic, would have a right to vote in
+any election, by virtue of any privileges enjoyed in America. He must be
+a freeholder of Britain, or a freeman of some British city, borough, or
+corporation, and have a British qualification, before he can elect or be
+elected. The interests of _America_ and _Britain_ are not interwoven, as
+are those of British electors and non-electors. If the British
+parliament impose taxes on the Americans, Britons do not bear with them
+their part and proportion in the said taxes. The former are burdened
+that the latter may be eased. The monies raised have the nature of a
+tribute exacted from a conquered people in a slavish dependence, and not
+of a tax voluntarily granted by the voice of freemen, through their own
+elected representatives, paying scot and lot with themselves, for the
+support of government. Beside, the British parliament are so far removed
+from America, that they cannot obtain that full information respecting
+the colonies which ought always to accompany the exercise of a taxing
+power.
+
+When the question upon the bill, in its last stage, was brought to a
+vote, there were about 250 for, and 50 against it. In the house of
+lords, so strong was the unanimity, that there was not a single syllable
+uttered against the bill; and on the twenty-second of March, it obtained
+the royal assent. The night after it was passed, Dr. _Franklin_ wrote
+Mr. _Charles Thomson_,[82] “the sun of liberty is set; you must light up
+the candles of industry and œconomy.” Mr. _Thomson_ answered, he was
+apprehensive that other lights would be the consequence, and predicted
+the opposition that followed.
+
+The framers of the stamp act flattered themselves, that the confusion
+which would arise upon the disuse of writings, would compel the colonies
+to use the stamp paper, and therefore to pay the taxes imposed. Thus
+they were led to pronounce it, _a law which would execute itself_. Mr.
+Grenville, however, appears to have been apprehensive that it might
+occasion disorders; to prevent or suppress which, he projected another
+bill, which was brought in the same session, whereby it was to be made
+lawful for military officers in the colonies, to quarter their soldiers
+in private houses. This seemed intended to awe the people into a
+compliance with the other act. Great opposition being made to it, as
+under such a power in the army, no one could look on his house as his
+own, that part of the bill was dropt; but there still remained a clause,
+when passed into a law, to oblige the several assemblies to provide
+quarters for the soldiers, and to furnish them with firing, bedding,
+candles, small beer, rum, and sundry other articles, at the expence of
+the several provinces; which continued in force when the stamp act was
+repealed. It equally militated with the other against the American
+principle, _That money is not to be raised on English subjects without
+their consent_.
+
+Whatever might be urged, government was under no necessity of adopting
+the mode of taxing the colonies for their defence, and the securing of
+the new ceded countries. Though after the general peace an Indian war
+might be continued or renewed, that was no reason for continuing British
+forces in America. The colonists were better able to deal with them than
+the regulars. The new ceded countries required no great number of troops
+to secure them. The colonies were at hand to support the British
+garrisons in case assistance was wanted: and they had repeatedly shewed
+their readiness upon former occasions. The idea of a dangerous enemy
+upon the American continent, was at an end; and the British
+administration must have been inexcusable, had they not guarded against
+the transferring of one from Europe. It was become futile to
+exclaim—“Shall it depend upon the resolutions of a Philadelphia
+assembly, whether our fellow subjects shall arm in defence of liberty
+and property? Does the fate of a whole continent bear any proportion to
+an almost imperceptible encroachment upon the important privilege of an
+American, deliberating for a year or two, whether he will pay six-pence
+in the pound to save himself and family from perdition?” The danger of
+perdition was a mere bugbear, which might frighten the ignorant into an
+apprehension that it was absolutely necessary to maintain an army in
+America, for the expence of which the colonies should be made to answer;
+but the Americans knew better than to startle at the spectre. Had no
+more troops been stationed upon the American continent than
+circumstances called for, the ministry might have obtained all the aids
+it was reasonable for the colonies to have given, by the old mode of
+requisition. From the time that they were first considered as capable of
+granting aids, the constant mode of obtaining them, was by _requisition
+from the crown_, through the governors to the several assemblies; and
+the ministers, from _Charles_ II. to the present king, most effectually
+recognised the distinction between parliamentary superintendance and
+taxation, in their requisitions to the colonies to raise men and money
+by acts of assembly. Had this happy method been continued, all the money
+that could have been justly expected from them in any manner, might have
+been procured without the least breach of that harmony which so long
+subsisted between the colonies and the mother country; and it was not
+acting wisely to thwart unnecessarily the prejudices of the Americans.
+But the imposition of taxes upon them might be introductory to, or a
+part of the plan for overturning their civil and religious liberties,
+alluded to by the Rev. Mr. _Whitefield_, before even the sugar act had
+passed.
+
+The stamp act having passed, the colony agents waited upon Mr. Wheatley
+by desire, who told them, that Mr. Grenville did not think of sending
+from Great-Britain stamp officers, but wished to have discreet and
+respectable persons appointed from among the inhabitants; and that he
+would be obliged to them to point out to him such persons. Thus the
+agents were drawn in to nominate. Dr. Franklin recommended Mr. _Hughes_
+to be chief distributor of stamps in _Pennsylvania_, and Mr. _Cox_ in
+the _Jerseys_; and being consulted by Mr. _Ingersoll_, advised him to
+accept, adding, _go home and tell your countrymen to get children as
+fast as they can_—thereby intimating his opinion of the oppression the
+colonists were under, and of their present inability to make effectual
+resistance; but that they ought, when sufficiently numerous, to shake
+off the yoke and recover their liberty. It is apparent from the
+recommendations, and the appointments made in consequence of the
+nominations, that the agents were far from thinking that such
+disturbances would have been occasioned by the stamp act, or they would
+have spared their friends. They certainly expected the act would have
+gone down, and the stamp papers have been used. But it was the reverse.
+
+A general discontent through the _Massachusetts_ discovered itself
+immediately on the first advice of the acts having passed; but there was
+no other expectation among the bulk of the people, than that the act
+would be submitted to, and the duty paid; and several who afterward
+opposed it violently, made interest with the distributor, that they or
+their friends might obtain appointments. The newspapers, indeed, groaned
+for the loss of liberty; however, nothing extravagant appeared in them;
+but the friends to the claims of the colonies, pleased with Barre’s
+sheech, and what he had pronounced the Americans, assumed to themselves
+the title of—SONS OF LIBERTY.
+
+In Connecticut the inhabitants were quite inattentive to the fatal
+consequences that the act might draw after it in some distant period.
+The judges themselves, several of whom were of the council, appeared
+perfect secure, and were no ways alarmed. The Rev. Mr. _Stephen Johnson_
+of _Lyme_, vexed and grieved with the temper and inconsiderateness of
+all orders of people, determined, if possible, to rouse them to a better
+way of thinking. He consulted a neighbouring gentleman, an Irishman by
+birth, who undertook to convey the pieces he might pen to the
+_New-London_ printer, so secretly as to prevent the author’s being
+discovered. Three or four essays were published upon the occasion. The
+eyes of the public began to open, and fears were excited. Other writers
+engaged in the business, while the first withdrew, having fully answered
+his intention. The congregational ministers saw further into the designs
+of the British administration than the bulk of the colony; and, by their
+publications and conversation, increased and strengthened the
+opposition.—It became so considerable, that when governor _Fitch_
+proposed that he and the counsellors should be sworn agreeable to the
+stamp act, colonel _Trumbull_[83] went out, and refused even to witness
+to the transaction. Others followed this spirited example, and only four
+of the council remained.
+
+In _Virginia_ a general disposition appeared to submit to the stamp act:
+but _George Johnston_ and _Patrick Henry_, esqrs. consulted together;
+and afterward, at the close of the sessions, when there was but a thin
+house, many members being absent preparing to return home, Mr. Henry
+brought in a number of resolves.—They were as follows, viz. “Whereas the
+honorable house of commons in _England_, have of late drawn into
+question how far the general assembly of this colony hath power to enact
+laws for laying of taxes and imposing duties, payable by the people of
+this his majesty’s most ancient colony—for settling and ascertaining the
+same to all future times, the house of burgesses of this present general
+assembly, have come to the following resolves:
+
+Resolved, That the first adventurers, settlers of this his majesty’s
+colony and dominion of _Virginia_, brought with them and transmitted to
+their posterity, and all other his majesty’s subjects since inhabiting
+in this his majesty’s said colony, all the liberties, privileges,
+franchises, and immunities, that have at any time been held, enjoyed,
+and possessed by the people of _Great-Britain_:
+
+Resolved, That by two royal charters, granted by king _James_ I. the
+colonists aforesaid are declared and entitled to all liberties,
+privileges and immunities of denizens and natural subjects, to all
+intents and purposes, as if they had been abiding and born within the
+realm of _England_:
+
+Resolved, That his majesty’s liege people of this ancient colony have
+enjoyed the right of being thus governd by their own assembly, in the
+articles of taxes and internal police; and that the same have never been
+forfeited, or any other way yielded up, but have been constantly
+recognised by the king and people of _Britain_:
+
+Resolved therefore, That the general assembly of this colony, together
+with his majesty or his substitutes, have in their representative
+capacity, the only exclusive right and power to lay taxes and imposts
+upon the inhabitants of this colony; and that every attempt to vest such
+power in any other person or persons whatsoever, than the general
+assembly aforesaid is illegal, unconstitutional, and unjust, and hath a
+manifest tendency to destroy _British_ as well as _American_ liberty:
+
+Resolved, That his majesty’s liege people, the inhabitants of this
+colony, are not bound to yield obedience to any law or ordinance
+whatever, designed to impose any taxation whatsoever upon them, other
+than the laws and ordinances of the general assembly aforesaid:
+
+Resolved, That any person who shall, by speaking or writing, assert or
+maintain, that any person or persons, other than the general assembly of
+this colony, have any right or power to impose or lay any taxation on
+the people here, shall be deemed an enemy to this his majesty’s colony.”
+
+Upon reading these resolves the _Scotch_ gentlemen in the house, cried
+out treason, &c. They were however adopted.—The next day, some old
+members got them revised, though they could not carry it to reject them.
+As revised they stand thus on the printed journals of the house of
+burgesses.
+
+                                               _Thursday, May 30, 1765._
+
+Resolved, That the first adventurers, &c. &c. as above:
+
+Resolved, That by two royal charters, &c. &c.
+
+Resolved, That the taxation of the people by themselves, or by persons
+chosen by themselves to represent them, who can only know what taxes the
+people are able to bear, or the easiest method of raising them, and must
+themselves be effected by every tax laid on the people, is the only
+security against a burdensome taxation, and the distinguishing
+characteristic of _British_ freedom, without which the ancient
+constitution cannot exist:
+
+Resolved, That his majesty’s liege people of this his most ancient and
+loyal colony, have, without interruption, enjoyed the inestimable right
+of being governed by such laws, respecting their internal policy and
+taxation, as are derived from their own consent, with the approbation of
+their sovereign or his substitute; and that the same hath never been
+forfeited or yielded up, but hath been constantly recognised by the king
+and people of _Great-Britain_.
+
+[June 1.] Lieutenant-governor Farquier dissolved the house of burgesses
+upon being made acquainted with their resolves.
+
+A manuscript of the unrevised resolves soon reached _Philadelphia_,
+having been sent off immediately upon their passing, that the earliest
+information of what had been done might be obtained by the sons of
+liberty. From thence the like was forwarded on the seventeenth of June.
+At _New-York_ the resolves were handed about with great privacy: they
+were accounted so treasonable, that the possessors of them declined
+printing them in that city. The _Irish_ gentleman alluded to above,
+being there, inquired after them, and with much precaution was admitted
+to take a copy.—He carried them to _New-England_, where they were
+published and circulated far and wide in the newspapers, without any
+reserve, and proved eventually the occasion of those disorders which
+afterward broke out in the colonies. Till they appeared, it was thought
+that the _Rhode-Islanders_ would submit. Murmurs indeed were continually
+heard; but they seemed to be such as would die away. The Virginia
+resolutions gave a spring to all the disgusted, and they began to adopt
+different measures.
+
+The _Massachusetts_ assembly had hit upon a wise and quiet mode of
+seeking address, before ever they could be acquainted with what had been
+done in Virginia. It was projected and brought on by Messrs. _Otis_,
+father and son. They were visiting at _James Warren’s_, esq. of
+Plymouth, a son and brother-in-law, he having married Miss _Otis_. The
+state of public affairs, and how to get rid of the burdens coming upon
+the colonies, were the subjects of conversation. Congresses had often
+been held, and though there was no precedent of any one’s being called,
+but at the instance of persons authorised or employed by the ministry,
+excepting the first congress we read of, which was proposed by the
+_Massachusetts_ general court in 1690; yet no reasonable objection could
+be made against holding one upon the present emergency, notwithstanding
+it might want the sanction of administration.—It was agreed to forward
+the meeting of a congress as a proper method for obtaining the removal
+of American grievances. The matter was moved in the house of assembly;
+[June 6.] the consequence was, an agreement, that “It is highly
+expedient there should be a meeting, as soon as may be, of committees
+from the houses of representatives or burgesses in the several colonies,
+to consult on the present circumstances of the colonies, and the
+difficulties to which they are and must be reduced, and to consider of a
+general address—to be held at New-York, the first Tuesday of October.”
+Within two days, a letter was drafted to be sent to the several
+speakers; and at the close of a fortnight, _James Otis_, jun. _Oliver
+Partridge_, and _Timothy Ruggles_, esqrs. were chosen the committee for
+the Massachusetts. The governor, in his account to the lords of trade,
+said, “It was impossible to oppose this measure to any good purpose; and
+therefore the friends of government took the lead in it, and have kept
+it in their hands. Two of the three chosen are fast friends to
+government, prudent and discreet men, such as I am assured will never
+consent to any improper applications to the government of
+Great-Britain.” Lieutenant governor _Colden_ designedly prorogued the
+meeting of the _New-York_ assembly, till after the time appointed for
+the congress; but the committee ordered, by the vote of the house of the
+eighteenth of October 1764, to be a committee during the recess, to
+write to and correspond with the several assemblies or committees of
+assemblies on the continent, did, by virtue of that order, meet in
+congress; and the house afterward approved of their conduct on the
+twentieth of November; and moreover resolved, “that for the obtaining
+relief from the operation and execution of the stamp act, and other acts
+for levying duties and taxes on the colonies, humble petitions be
+prepared to the king, the house of lords, and the house of commons, as
+nearly similar to those drawn up by the congress as the particular
+circumstances of the colony will admit.”
+
+The assemblies of _Virginia_, _North-Carolina_ and _Georgia_, were
+prevented, by their governors, having the opportunity of sending
+committees to congress. _The Massachusetts-Bay_, _Rhode-Island and
+Providence Plantations_, _Connecticut_, _New-York_, _New-Jersey_,
+_Pennsylvania_, the _Delaware Counties_, and _South-Carolina_, had their
+respective committees present at the place appointed; and Mr. _Ruggles_
+was chosen chairman. The petition to the house of commons being
+finished, was signed, though only by member from six colonies; the
+committees from _Connecticut_, _New-York_ and _South-Carolina_, not
+having been sufficiently empowered. Mr. _Ruggles_, took leave of the
+members, Thursday evening the twenty-fourth of October, and came off the
+next morning without signing; for which he was afterward censured by the
+_Massachusetts_ assembly. Mr. _Otis_ was upon the point of trespassing
+in like manner; but was prevented by the influence of Mr. _Thomes Lynch_
+of the _South-Carolina_ committee. The congress dissolved on October the
+twenty-fifth, having finished the business to which they had been
+appointed. The colonies that could not send committees, showed, as
+opportunities offered, their approbation of what had been done, by
+forwarding to their agents petitions to the like purpose with that of
+congress. _New-Hampshire_ had excused their not sending to congress,
+from the then situation of their governmental affairs; but the speaker
+laying before the assembly the proceedings of congress, on November the
+twenty-second, they voted unanimously, “That this house do fully approve
+of, and heartily join in the resolves and several petitions agreed to by
+the said general congress; and that the speaker, with two others, (all
+whose names are mentioned) be empowered to sign the same in behalf of
+this house, if not too late; if the general petitions are forwarded, in
+that case the said petitions be fairly engrossed, that they sign them in
+behalf of the house, and forward them, with duplicates, to _Barlow
+Trecothick_ and _John Wentworth_, esqrs. who are appointed special
+agents for the house, and are empowered and desired to present the said
+petitions, &c.” The committee wrote to these agents on December the
+sixth, and concluded with saying, “We in this province have not been so
+boisterous and irregular as some others, not because we are insensible
+of our distresses, but because we though the present method most likely
+to obtain relief.”
+
+The _Virginia_ resolves having had their full operation, and the spirits
+of the people being highly inflamed, the colonial disturbances break out
+upon the following occasion. Messrs. _John Avery_, jun. _Thomas Crafts_,
+_John Smith_, _Henry Welles_, _Thomas Chace_, _Stephen Cleverly_, _Henry
+Bass_, and _Benjamin Edes_, to manifest their abhorrence and detestation
+of those persons who they supposed were endeavouring to subvert the
+British constitution to enslave the colonies, and to alienate the
+affections of his majesty’s most faithful subjects in America, provide
+and hang out early in the morning of August the fourteenth, upon the
+limb of a large old elm, toward the entrance of Boston, over the most
+public street, two effigies, one of which by the labels appear to be
+designed for the stamp officer; the other is a jack boot, with a head
+and horns peeping out of the top. Not only the usual passengers pass
+under it, but the report spreads, and draws great numbers from every
+part of the town and the neighbouring country. The affair is left to
+take its own course; an enthusiastic spirit diffuses itself through the
+body of the spectators. In the evening the pageantry is cut down, and
+carried in funeral procession, the populace shouting, _liberty and
+property for ever_, _no stamps_, &c. &c. They direct their way to a new
+building, lately erected by Mr. _Oliver_, which they pull down, falsely
+supposing it to be designed for the tsamp office. They go on to his
+house, before which they behead his effigy, breaking at the same time
+all the windows next the street. They then repair to Fort Hill, on the
+ascent of which stands his house, where they burn his effigy. After this
+they return to attack his premises; and many of they with clubs, staves,
+&c. go to work on the garden, fences, barns, &c. Mr. Oliver had
+prudently retired, leaving a few friends behind to keep possession of
+the dwelling: these committed some slight indiscretions, the populace
+are so enraged, that they force themselves into the lower part of it,
+break the windows and destroy the furniture. They disperse about
+midnight. The next day [August 15.] Mr. Oliver, fearful of what may
+otherwise happen declares that he has written to England, and resigned.
+The mob assemble again at night: and, after some expressions of joy for
+the resignation, proceed to the lieutenant-governor’s, Mr.
+_Hutchinson’s_ house, which they besiege for an hour, though in vain,
+insisting repeatedly upon knowing whether he had not written in favor of
+the stamp act: at length, through the influence of some discreet
+persons, they withdrew and finished their evening’s entertainment at a
+bonfire.
+
+[August 26.] Eleven days after, the disorders grew more enormous and
+alarming. In the evening a number of persons, disguised and armed with
+clubs, sticks, &c. collect in King-street, in consequence of a
+preconcerted plan. They go first to Mr. _Paxton’s_, marshal of the court
+of admiralty and surveyor of the port; being assured by the owner of the
+house, that Mr. Paxton had quitted it with his best effects; and being
+invited by him to the tavern to drink a barrel of punch, they accept the
+offer, and the house is saved. Having finished the punch, they proceed
+to and attack the house of Mr. _William Story_, deputy register of the
+court of admiralty; break the windows; force into the dwelling; strip
+the office of the books and files belonging to the said court; burn and
+destroy them with many other papers; injure and ruin a great part of his
+furniture.
+
+It is the opinion of some, that the first movers in the affair, meant
+mainly an assault upon the house of the deputy register, who, by various
+mal-practices, had made himself highly obnoxious to persons doing
+business in his office. But mobs once raised, soon become ungovernable
+by new and large accessions, and extend their intentions for beyond
+those of the original instigators. Crafty men may intermix with them
+when they are much heated, and direct their operations quite differently
+from what was at first designed.
+
+How far the scheme of the present mob extended, when it first collected,
+is hard to say; but upon leaving Mr. _Story_’s, they proceed to the
+house of Mr. _Benj. Hallowell_, comptroller of the customs for Boston;
+and to the repetition of similar excesses to what have been just
+committed, add the drinking and destroying of liquors in the cellars,
+the taking away of wearing apparel, the breaking open of desk and
+drawers, and the carrying off thirty pounds sterling in money. Many
+being now inflamed with liquor, and numbers having joined them, they
+become more riotous, and are ready for any mischief. They hurry away to
+Mr. _Hutchinson_’s house with the rage of madmen. He sends off his
+children, bars his doors and windows, and means to remain; but is soon
+under the necessity of withdrawing, first to one house, then to another,
+where he continues till four in the morning, by which time one of the
+best finished houses in the colony, has nothing remaining but the bare
+walls and floors. Gentlemen of the army, who have seen towns sacked by
+an enemy, declare they never before saw an instance of such fury. The
+rioters carry off about nine hundred pounds sterling, beside plate,
+family pictures, household furniture of every kind, and the apparel of
+the lieutenant governor, his children and servants.—They also empty the
+house of every thing whatsoever, except a part of the kitchen furniture;
+and scatter or destroy all the manuscripts and other papers he has been
+collecting for thirty years back, beside a great number of public papers
+in his custody. The loss of papers is irreparable.
+
+[Aug. 27.] The next day it was strongly reported by the enemies of Dr.
+_Jonathan Mayhew_, that he approved of these doings; and had, indeed,
+encouraged them, in a sermon preached the preceding Lord’s day, on
+_Gal._ v. 12, 13. This led him to write immediately to Hutchinson; and
+in his letter he condoled with him, “on account of the almost
+unparalleled outrages committed at his house the preceding evening;” and
+said, “God is my witness, that, from the bottom of my heart, I detest
+these proceedings; and that I am sincerely grieved for them, and have a
+deep sympathy with you and your distressed family on this occasion. I
+did, indeed, express myself strongly in favor of civil and religious
+liberty, as I hope I shall ever continue to do; and spoke of the stamp
+act as a great grievance, like to prove detrimental, in a high degree,
+both to the colonies and the mother country, and I have heard your honor
+speak to the same purpose. But as my text led me to do, I cautioned my
+hearers very particularly against the abuses of liberty, and expressed
+my hopes, that no persons among ourselves had encouraged the bringing of
+such a burden on their country, notwithstanding it had been strongly
+suspected. In truth, Sir, I had rather lose my hand than be an
+encourager of such outrages as were committed last night. I do not think
+my regard to truth was ever called into question by those that knew me;
+and therefore hope your honor will be so just as to give entire credit
+to these solemn declarations.”
+
+This same day the superior court began its term. The chief justice, Mr.
+_Hutchinson_, attended in his only suit, and necessarily without those
+ensigns of office so wisely calculated to procure regard to authority;
+while the other gentlemen of the bench and bar, appeared in their
+respective robes. The court refused to do any business, and adjourned to
+the fifteenth of October, to show their resentment of the insult offered
+to the lieutenant governor, as well as their sense of the anarchy to
+which the government was reduced. Half a dozen of the dregs of the
+people, who, being taken up, refused to discover the ringleaders, were
+committed. Three broke jail and fled, against one of whom a bill was
+found; against the other three in custody none was found; for it was not
+thought safe to prosecute. The temper of the public would not admit of
+it, without hazarding further disturbances; and for that reason, one who
+was capitally charged with being a principal in the riot, and secured,
+was finally dismissed by the justices.
+
+Various causes might contribute toward the outrageous attack upon the
+house and property of Mr. Hutchinson. As long back as 1748, the currency
+having depreciated to about an eighth of its original value, he, being
+then speaker of the house, projected and carried through a bill for
+abolishing it, and substituting gold and silver in its place, which made
+him extremely obnoxious to several who had lived by fraud, and were much
+dissatisfied with the alteration. They then threatened him with
+destruction; and retaining their rancour, are supposed to have been
+aiders and abettors, if not actors in the riot. A certain gentleman of
+great integrity, and who fills a place in the judicial department with
+much credit, and to the satisfaction of the public, has expressed a
+strong apprehension that the mob was led on to the house by a secret
+influence, with a view to the destruction of certain papers, know to be
+there, and which, it is thought, would have proved, that the grant to
+the New-Plymouth compay on Kennebec river, was different from what was
+contended for by some claimants. The papers were never found
+afterward.—But Mr. _Hutchinson_ had certainly disgusted the people
+exceedingly, by promoting the superior court’s granting writs of
+assistance; and by showing himself so strenuous in supporting
+government, when become odious, by the measures adopted for obliging the
+colonies to pay taxes in compliance with British acts of parliament.—He
+was also strongly suspected of having forwarded the stamp act, by
+letters written upon the occasion. These circumstances, co-operating
+with the general disposition in the people to tumult, produced by a
+prevailing persuasion, that they were deprived of the liberties of
+Englishmen, will account for the excessive outrages against him in
+particular. But their enormity was alarming. No one knew who might be
+the next sacrafice. The town of Boston, therefore, beside condemning
+them the next day, unanimously voted, “That the select men and
+magistrates be desired to use their utmost endeavours to suppress the
+like disorders for the future:” and for some time, the magistrates and
+private gentlemen, the cadet and other companies, kept watch at night to
+prevent further violences.
+
+In justice to Mr. _Hutchinson_, it must be observed, that from his
+letters to Messrs. _Bollan_, _Jackson_, and others, it appears, that he
+then considered parliament’s taxing the colonies as inconsistent with
+the rights of the colonists, and as a mere act of power, without regard
+to equity. He was at the trouble of writing a pamphlet in 1764,
+cantaining _A brief state of the claim of the colonies, and the
+interests of the nation with respect to them_. This, when he had
+disguised it so as that it might not be suspected to come from America,
+he sent to Mr. Jackson the agent, who was either to suppress or publish
+it; and he afterward expressed a surprise at his not having done the
+latter. The following are extracts from it.
+
+“The right to new acquired countries, according to the constitution of
+England, two hundred years ago, was allowed to be in the crown. The
+crown from time to time disposed of these countries not only to their
+own subjects, but to foreign princes: particulary _Acadia_ and
+_Nova-Scotia_, when begun to be settled by British subjects, were ceded
+to _France_, although France had no better claim to them than
+New-England: and _Surinam_ was sold to, or exchanged with the _Dutch_.”
+He might have adduced in proof of James I. being of opinion, that he had
+a personal right to alienate at pleasure new acquired territory, his
+granting, in September 1621, _Nova-Scotia_, which he could not inherit
+but as king of England, to Sir _William Alexander_, of Menstry,
+afterward Lord Stirling, under the seal of Scotland; and his erecting it
+into a palatinate, to be holden as a fief of the crown of Scotland.
+Under the same seal, and in the same words, the grant was confirmed by
+Charles I. in June 1625. The legality of these grants appear not to have
+been questioned at the time, which indicates that the prevailing opinion
+of the English corresponded then with that of their sovereigns.
+
+Mr. Hutchinson goes on to mention, “_American_ lands in their natural
+state are of no value; there is not any colony which has not cost more
+to render it capable of rendering profit than it is now worth.”
+
+“In the trading towns, in some of the colonies the last war, one fourth
+part of the profit of the trade was annually paid to the support of the
+war, and other public charges. In the country towns, a farm which would
+not rent for twenty pounds a year, paid ten pounds taxes. Was it from
+parental affection to the colonists, and to save them from French
+vassalage, that Great-Britain was at such expence; or was it from fear
+of losing the advantageous trade she had carried on with her colonies?”
+
+“When there is peace in Europe, what occasion is there for any national
+expence in America?”
+
+“It cannot be good policy to tax the Americans; it will prove
+prejudicial to the national interests. The advantages proposed by the
+increase of the revenue, are fallacious and delusive. You will lose more
+than you will gain. Britain reaps the profit of all their trade, and the
+increase of all their substance.”
+
+“Your commerce with the colonies will be enough for you, should you have
+no commerce elsewhere, if you encourage, the colonies to increase the
+consumption of your manufactures for fifty years to come, as they have
+done for fifty years past; and with no more than reasonable
+encouragement they will infallibly do it, and in much greater
+proportion.”
+
+Though the disturbances began in _Boston_ yet they were not confined to
+the _Massachusetts_. They broke out in the other colonies; and so near
+to the same time, as to excite suspicions that it was not wholly the
+effect of accident, but partly of a pre-concerted design. _Rhode-Island_
+and _Providence Plantations_ shewed themselves among the foremost in
+their opposition to the stamp act.
+
+[Aug. 24.] A gazette extraordinary was published at _Providence_, with
+_Vox populi, Vox Dei_, in large letters for the frontispiece; and
+underneath, _Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty_. The
+publication had a tendency to prepare the people for action. Effigies
+were also exhibited; and in the evening cut down and burnt by the
+populace.
+
+[27.] About nine in the morning, the people of _Newport_, in
+_Rhode-Island_, brought forth three effigies, meant for Messrs.
+_Howard_, _Moffat_, and _Johnson_, in a cart, with halters about their
+necks, to a gallows near the town-house, where they were hung; after a
+while cut down, and burnt amid the acclamations of thousands.
+
+[28.] By the next day there was time enough to hear of what had been
+done at _Boston_. The people collected, or rather were mustered afresh,
+and beset the house of Mr. _Martin Howard_, jun. a lawyer of reputation,
+and a writer in defence of the parliament’s right to tax the colonies.
+They destroyed every thing, and left only a shell. They passed on to Dr.
+_Thomas Moffat’s_, a physician, one who had warmly supported in
+conversation the same right, and behaved in like manner. They intended
+doing it to Mr. _Augustus Johnson_, but desisted upon persuasion; and on
+his coming to town, and giving it under his hand that he would not
+accept the office of distributor of the stamps, unless the public were
+satisfied, they became quiet. Messrs. Howard and Moffat hastened on
+board a ship of war for personal protection.
+
+The commotions in _Connecticut_ were not equally violent; but Mr.
+_Ingersoll_ was the subject of exhibition in several places.
+
+[Aug. 22.] They had their pageantry at _Norwich_, which they committed
+to the flames when the day closed.
+
+[26.] They had the same at _Lebanon_; but before they executed and
+burnt, they had a parade of a mock trial.
+
+[27.] The next day there was a repetition of the like, excepting the
+trial. At length the resentment against the stamp distributor became so
+general and alarming, that he resigned his office.
+
+A like resignation takes place in _New-York_, some time in August. It
+becomes a necessary point of prudence from the spirit which the citizens
+discover. The stamp act is treated with the most indignant contempt, by
+being printed and cried about the streets, under the title of, _The
+folly_ of ENGLAND _and ruin of_ AMERICA. Toward the end of October the
+stamp papers arrive; and Mr. M‘Evers having resigned, lieutenant
+governor Colden takes them into _Fort George_. Some extraordinary
+preparations for securing them, having displeased the inhabitants,
+joined to the dislike they have entertained to Colden’s political
+sentiments, [Nov. 1.] and its being the day for the stamp act to take
+place, numbers are induced to assemble in the evening. They proceed to
+the fort walls; break open his stable; take out his coach; and, after
+carrying it through the principal streets of the city in triumph, march
+to the common, where a gallows is erected; on one end of which they
+suspend his effigy, having in his right hand a stamped bill of lading,
+and in the other, a figure for the devil. After hanging a considerable
+time, they carry the whole, with the gallows entire, the coach
+preceding, in procession to the gate of the fort; from whence it is
+removed to the bowling-green, under the muzzles of the guns, where a
+bonfire is immediately made, and all, coach included, are consumed amid
+the exultations of some thousands of spectators. They go from hence to
+major _James’s_ house, before known by the name of _Vaux-Hall_, which is
+genteelly furnished, contains a valuable library, and many curiosities,
+and has a handsome garden belonging to it. They strip it of every
+article, make another bonfire, and consume the whole, beside destroying
+the garden; and all because of his being a friend to the stamp act.
+
+[Nov. 2.] The next morning a paper is privately drawn up, and given to a
+man to read from the balcony of the coffee-house, to and about which the
+citizens are used to frequent; it sets forth the necessity of being
+peaceable, and calls upon the inhabitants to turn out with their arms
+upon any alarm, and quell all riotous proceedings. The effect it appears
+to have upon being heard, is frustrated by captain _Isaac Sears_, who
+formerly commanded a privateer, and is bitterly set against the stamp
+act. Having been secretly informed in the morning what is to be done, he
+is present, and tells the populace who collect about him, “The intention
+of the proposal that has been read, is to prevent our having the stamp
+papers;” and adds, “but we will have them within four and twenty hours.”
+He then flourishes his hat, and cries, “Huzza, my lads.” They
+immediately comply in loud shouts. He turns to several gentlemen
+present, and says, “Your best way, as you may now see, will be to advise
+lieutenant governor _Colden_ to send the stamp papers from the fort to
+the inhabitants.” In the evening the mob assemble, and insist upon his
+delivering them into their hands. He hopes to satisfy them, by declaring
+he will do nothing in relation to the stamps, but leave it to Sir Henry
+Moore to do as he pleases on his arrival. The people are not contented;
+they will have the stamps, or attempt taking them away by force; which
+must probably be attended with much bloodshed. After repeated
+negociation, it is agreed that they shall be delivered to the
+corporation; which is accordingly done, and they are deposited in the
+city-hall, to general satisfaction. Ten boxes of the like, which arrive
+afterward, meet with a worse fate, being committed to the flames.
+
+The destruction of major _James’s_ house, (for it was reduced to a
+shell) convinced the gentlemen who were standing up for the rights of
+the colonies, that it was necessary to have leaders to manage the mob.
+It was therefore contrived to call the people together.
+
+[Nov. 6.] They met in the fields; and it was proposed, that a committee
+be appointed to open a correspondence with the other colonies. This was
+a measure of so serious and important a nature, as to endanger the lives
+and property of the committee, especially should the stamp act be
+enforced and carried through; and therefore there was no one, for more
+than half an hour who would venture to accept. Mr. _James De Lancey_,
+who had joined the popular side, in order to secure a seat in the
+assembly at the next general election, was nominated; but declined,
+pleading his being upon the committee to converse with the lawyers, on
+their proceeding to business without stamps, instead of suspending it,
+as they appeared to intend. At length, however, captain Sears, with four
+others, offered and were approved.
+
+They agreed among themselves to sign all the letters with their several
+names, and to open a correspondence with all the colonies. The
+_Philadelphians_ were requested to forward their inclosed letters to the
+more southern states, and the _Bostonians_ to forward those for
+_New-Hampshire_.
+
+Here we see another set of corrosponding sons of liberty originated to
+strengthen the opposition of the colonies to parliamentary taxation.
+
+The commotions beyond _New-York_, did not terminate in similar excesses
+to what had happened there, at _Newport_ and _Boston_; but the
+exhibition of effigies in the day, the burning them at night, and other
+marks of displeasure, induced the stamp officers to resign. Some did it
+with a better grace than others. Mr. _George Mercer_, distributor for
+_Virginia_, arrived in the evening at _Williamsburg_. The people
+immediately urged him to resign. The next day he declined acting, in so
+genteel a manner, that he had the repeated acclamations of all present.
+At night the town was illuminated, the bells were set a ringing, and all
+was joy and festivity.
+
+[Oct. 3.] At _Philadelphia_ upon the appearance of the ships having on
+board the stamps, all the vessels in the harbour hoisted their colours
+half-staff high; the bells were muffled and continued to tool till
+evening; and every ccuntenance added to the marks of sincere mourning. A
+large number of people chiefly of the presbyterian persuasion, and of
+the proprietary party, with _William Allen_, esq. the chief justice’s
+son at their head, assembled and endeavoured to procure the stamp
+distributor’s resignation. It had been for some time warmly talked of,
+that he ought to resign. Mr. _Hughes_ was obnoxious to both the
+presbyterian and the proprietary party; but particularly hateful to the
+latter as it was his _interest_, _assiduity_, and _influence_, in the
+_Pennsylvania_ house of assembly that enabled the province to send home
+Dr. _Franklin_ to present their petitions, for a change of govenment
+from proprietary to royal—a change highly disagreeable to each party.
+The body of quakers seemed disposed to pay obedience to the stamp act,
+and so did part of the church of _England_, and of the baptists not
+under proprietary influence. But no pains were spared to engage the
+_Dutch_ and lower class of people in the opposition; and though Mr.
+_Hughes_ held out long,[84] yet he found it necessary at length to
+comply.
+
+Mr. _Hood_, stamp distributor for _Maryland_, that he might avoid
+resigning fled to _New-York_, and obtained protection in the fort. Upon
+Sir _Henry Moor’s_ arrival he left the fort, and went to _Long-Island_.
+A number of the freemen crossed over unexpectedly; surprised him;
+obliged him to sign a paper, declaring his absolute and final
+resignation; and then took him before a magistrate, to whom he read the
+paper, and afterward made oath to the matter therein contained.
+
+At _Boston_ they took care to keep up the spirit of liberty, though they
+avoided former violence. [Sept. 21.] A new political paper appeared,
+under the significant title of “The Constitutional Courant, containing
+matters interesting to _liberty_, and no ways repugnant to _loyalty_;
+printed by _Andrew Marval_, at the sign of the _Bribe refused_, on
+_Constitution Hill, North America_.” It wore a more significant
+head-piece—a snake cut into eight pieces, the head part having N E, The
+initials of _New-England_ affixed to it, and the rest the initials of
+the other colonies to _South-Carolina_ inclusive and in order, NY, NJ,
+P, M, V, NC, SC.—The device accompanying them was, JOIN or DIE.
+
+[Nov. 1.] The morning of the day when the stamp act took place, was
+ushered in with the tolling of bells. The large old elm (which since the
+fourteenth of August, when the riots began, had been adorned with an
+inscription, and obtained the name of _liberty tree_, as the ground
+under it had that of _liberty hall_—and which gave rise to other trees
+being so called, upon an appropriation to popular purposes by the sons
+of liberty) was decorated with two effigies. They were cut down at there
+o’clock amid the acclamations of thousands, carried about town, then to
+the gallows upon the Neck, there hung up again, after a while cut down,
+torn in pieces, and scattered. The people repaired home; and the evening
+passed away quietly. But a transaction took place afterward not much to
+the credit of the town.
+
+[Dec. 16.] Mr. _Oliver_ was called upon by a letter from (as is was
+improperly signed) _the true sons of liberty_, to make a public
+resignation of his office on the morrow under liberty tree. He desired a
+gentleman to interpose, and procure him at least leave to resign in the
+town-house; but after several consultations, nothing more could be
+obtained than a promise of having no affront offered, and a proposal to
+invite the principal persons of the town to accompany him. He was
+obliged to repair to liberty tree; there to read his declaration in the
+presence of more than two thousand people; and then to swear to it
+before a justice, on the spot for that purpose. The cool, firm, and
+judicious sons of liberty must condemn this procedure toward the
+secretary, as mean, revengeful and cruel. It was torturing his feelings
+afresh, as upon a stage, in the most conspicuous manner, after having
+been terrified into a resignation four months before; and when it might
+be expected, that the bitterness of the resentment against him was
+ended.
+
+The opposition to the stamp officers was not confined to the continent.
+The people of St. _Kitts_ obliged the distributor and his deputy to
+resign. _Barbadoes_ submitted to the act. _Jamaica_ in general cleared
+out with stamps; but _Kingston_, as before, without. Upon the continent,
+_Canada_ and _Halifax_ submitted.
+
+The general fears that individuals were under, either of distributing or
+using stamps, was increased in one government by the following paper,
+pasted up at the door of every public office, and at the corner of the
+streets—
+
+
+                              Pro Patria.
+
+The first man that either distributes or makes use of stamped paper, let
+him take care of his house, person, and effects.
+
+                      We dare
+                                      Vox populi.
+
+
+The public resentment was kept alive and lively by the contemptuous
+treatment which the stamp act itself met with, being openly burnt in
+several places with the effigies of the officers; and by caricatures,
+pasquinades, puns, bon mots, and such vulgar sayings fitted to the
+occasion, as being short, could be most easily circulated and retained,
+while, being extremely expressive, they carried with them the weight of
+great many arguments.
+
+The resignation of the officers, and the want of persons, either to
+undertake the delivery of stamps or to receive and use them, necessarily
+laid the colonists under a legal inability for doing business, according
+to parliamentary law. They however ventured upon it, and risked the
+consequence. The vessels sailed from the ports as before; excepting
+that, in some instances, a certificate was given, that the person
+appointed to distribute stamped papers in the province, refused to
+deliver them, which certificate being handed by the masters to the naval
+officer, they were admitted to give bond in his office, and to pass
+through the other offices without stamps. The _Rhode-Island_ and
+_Providence_ Plantations kept their courts open the whole time, even
+when they were suspended in the other colonies. Toward the end of
+November it was agreed in _Maryland_ and _Virginia_ to proceed on
+business in the usual manner without stamps. In the Massachusetts the
+popular party so far prevailed, that the house of assembly resolved,
+January the twenty-third, 1766, “That the shutting up the courts of
+justice is a very great grievance; and that the judges, justices, and
+all other public officers in this province ought to proceed as usual.”
+But when the superior court opened, on the eleventh of March, the
+parties concerned evaded the prosecuting of business. The lawyers in a
+body waited, as usual, upon the judges, on the first day of the term,
+before they went into the court. The chief justice, Mr. Hutchinson, not
+being present at this meeting, Mr. Peter Oliver said he attended
+according to his duty, and that he understood it would be expected that
+he and his brethren should proceed in business in defiance of the late
+act of parliament: such proceeding, he added, was contrary to his
+judgment and opinion; and if he submitted io it, it would only be for
+self-preservation, as he knew he was in the hands of the populace: he
+therefore previously protested, that all such acts of his, if they sould
+happen, would be acts under duress. To which the other judges assenting,
+it was proposed to each of the lawyers singly, _Do you desire that
+business should proceed contrary to the act of parliament?_ Every one of
+them answered in the negative, even Mr. Otis himself.—But they said, it
+would be proper to try a cause or two to quiet the people: accordingly
+one cause, which had been at issue before the stamp act took place, was
+tried and all other civil business was postponed to the middle of April.
+
+Though the violent and righteous proceedings, which have been noticed,
+were severely censured by many; and numbers in all the colonies might
+seem inclined to submit to the stamp act, yet the right of imposing it
+was universally condemned, and the colonial rights as universally
+acceded to by the most peaceably disposed. The resolutions of the
+_Pennsylvania_ assembly, which met at _Philadelphia_ in September 1765,
+were passed _nemine contradicente_; and left upon their minutes, “as a
+testimony of the zeal and ardent desire of that house, to preserve their
+inestimable rights, which as _Englishmen_ they possessed ever since the
+province was settled, and to transmit them to their latest posterity.”
+They “resolved, That the only legal representatives of the inhabitants
+of this province, are the persons they annually elect to serve as
+members of assembly—Resolved, therefore, That the taxation of the people
+of this province by any other persons whatsoever, than such their
+representatives in assembly, is unconstitutional, and subversive of
+their most valuable rights—Resolved, That the laying of taxes upon the
+inhabitants of this province, in any other manner, being naturally
+subversive of public liberty, must of necessary consequence, be utterly
+destructive of public happiness.”[85] There might not be so many quakers
+in the house as usual; the times probably occasioned a larger choice out
+of other denominations; but there must have been several, and these we
+find acquiesced. These resolutions are as much opposed to the claims of
+the British parliament, as are those of the _Massachusetts_ assembly,
+passed October the twenty-ninth. Indeed the latter dwell more upon the
+unalienable essential rights of mankind, of which these cannot be
+divested, consistent with the law of God and nature, by any law of
+society; and they evidently mark it out, in their opinion, as one of
+those rights, that no man can justly take the property of another
+without his consent. They also resolved, that a representation in
+parliament of the inhabitants of their province, such as the subjects of
+Britain actually enjoy, is impracticable for the subjects in
+America.[86]—But both assemblies, though their expressions differed,
+agreed in resolving, that the extensions of the court of admiralty
+within the provinces, is a most violent infraction of the right of
+trials by juries. The resolves of the _Maryland_ and _Connecticut_
+assemblies, passed, the one September the twenty-eighth, and the other
+November the first, breathed the same spirit.[87]
+
+[Oct. 31.] But we have now to attend to a judicious measure pursued by
+the _New-York_ merchants, the more effectually to obtain a repeal of the
+stamp act. They resolved to direct their correspondents not to ship any
+more goods till it was repealed; and that they would not sell any goods
+upon commission, which should be shipped from Britain, after the first
+of January, unless upon that condition. They were the foremost in
+adopting the non-importation agreement; and recommended the like conduct
+to the _Massachusetts_, and the neighboring provinces in trade.
+
+[Nov. 7.] The merchants and traders of _Philadelphia_ had a general
+meeting, and entered into a similar agreement. Some quakers, who would
+not sign the combination, thought it prudent to be governed by the same
+restriction; and gave directions that the goods ordered should not be
+sent, unless the stamp act was repealed.
+
+It was not till December the ninth, that the merchants and traders of
+Boston resolved upon a non-importation. Government may deem such
+combinations illegal, as they are apt to do all that are opposed to
+their own measures; but surely the case of communities is bad indeed, if
+they have not a right voluntarily to agree among themselves, merely to
+suspend buying till they can obtain their own terms, when equitable.
+
+The peaceable line pursued in these agreements, had not been attended to
+by all who opposed the stamp act. They therefore, for their own safety,
+had a recourse to another, which might have drenched the country with
+blood, had not the repeal prevented. The way had been prepared by the
+publication of a system of politics, which appeared originally in the
+New-York papers, the principal point of which was, that the colonies are
+no otherwise related to Great-Britain than by having the same king. The
+essays meant to propagate and support this system, made their first
+appearance in the New-York prints, but most probably some of the
+manuscripts were sent from Boston. The New-York sons of liberty had, at
+length, a meeting, wherein they resolved, that they would go to the
+extremity, with lives and fortunes to prevent the stamp act. This spirit
+produced the following agreement between them and the sons of liberty in
+Connecticut:
+
+[Dec. 25.] “Certain reciprocal and mutual agreements concessions and
+associations made, concluded, and agreed upon by and between the sons of
+liberty of the colony of _New-York_, of the one part, and of the sons of
+liberty of the colony of _Connecticut_, on the other part, this
+twenty-fifth day of December, in the sixth year of the reign of our
+sovereign lord _George_ the Third, by the grace of God, of
+_Great-Britain_, _France_ and _Ireland_, king, defender of the faith,
+and in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and sixty-five.
+
+“The aforesaid parties taking into their most serious consideration the
+melancholy and unsettled state of _Great-Britain_ and her
+_North-American_ colonies, proceeding, as they are fully persuaded, from
+a design in her most insidious and inveterate enemies, to alienate the
+affections of his majesty’s most loyal and faithful subjects of
+_North-America_ from his person and government—Therefore to prevent as
+much as in us lies, the dissolution of so inestimable an union, they do,
+in the presence of _Almighty God_, declare, that they bear the most
+unshaken faith and true allegiance to his majesty king _George_ the
+Third—that they are most affectionately and zealously attached to his
+royal person and family, and are fully determined, to the utmost of
+their power, to maintain and support his crown and dignity, and the
+succession as by law established; and with the greatest cheerfulness
+they submit to his government, according to the known and just
+principles of the BRITISH CONSTITUTION, which they conceive to be
+founded on the eternal and immutable principles of justice and equity,
+and that every attempt to violate or wrest it, or any part of it, from
+them, under whatever pretence, colour, or authority, is an heinous sin
+against God, and the most daring contempt of the people, from whom
+(under God) all just government springs. From a sacred regard to all
+which, and a just sense of the impending evils that might befal them in
+consequence of such a dreadful dissolution, they do hereby voluntarily,
+and of their own free will, as well for the support of his majesty’s
+just prerogative and the British constitution, as their own mutual
+security and preservation, agree and concede to associate, advise,
+protect, and defend each other in the peaceable, full, and just
+enjoyment of their inherent and accustomed rights as British subjects of
+their respective colonies, not in the least desiring any alteration or
+innovation in the grand bulwark of their liberties and the wisdom of
+ages, but only to preserve it inviolate from the corrupt hands of its
+implacable enemies—And whereas a certain pamphlet has appeared in
+America, in the form of an act of parliament, called and known by the
+name of the _Stamp Act_, but has never been legally published or
+introduced, neither can it, as it would immediately deprive them of the
+most invaluable part of the British constitution, viz. the trial by
+juries, and the most just mode of taxation in the world, that is, of
+taxing themselves; rights that every British subject becomes heir to as
+soon as born. For the preservation of which, and every part of the
+British constitution, they do reciprocally resolve and determine to
+march with the utmost dispatch, at their own proper costs and expence,
+on the first proper notice (which must be signified to them by at least
+six of the sons of liberty) with their whole force, if required, and it
+can be spared, to the relief of those that shall, are, or may be in
+danger from the _stamp act_, or its promoters and abettors, or any thing
+relative to it, on account of any thing that may have been done in
+opposition to its obtaining—and they do mutually and most fervently
+recommend it to each other to be vigilant in watching all those who,
+from the nature of their offices, vocations or dispositions, may be the
+most likely to introduce the use of stamped papers, to the total
+subversion of the British constitution and American liberty; and the
+same, when discovered, immediately to advise each other of, let them be
+of what rank or condition soever; and they do agree that they will
+mutually, and to the utmost of their power, by all just ways and means,
+endeavor to bring all such betrayers of their country to the most
+condign punishment—and further, they do mutually resolve to defend the
+liberty of the press in their respective colonies from all unlawful
+violations and impediments whatever, on account of the said act, as the
+only means (under divine Providence) of preserving their lives,
+liberties, and fortunes, and the same in regard to the judges, clerks,
+attornies, &c. that shall proceed without any regard to the _stamp act_,
+from all pains, fines, mulcts, penalties, or any molestation
+whatever—and finally, that they will, to the utmost of their power,
+endeavor to bring about, accomplish and perfect the like association
+with all the colonies on the continent, for the like salutary purposes,
+and no other.”
+
+The opposition to the stamp act raged apparently more in New-York and
+Connecticut than in the Massachusetts; but the association being agreed
+upon, was sent by express to the sons of liberty at Boston, and received
+Sunday the second of February, 1766. On its receipt, letters were
+forwarded to a few individuals; and on the sixth of February, a circular
+letter to the several towns in the colony, containing the association
+and the desire of the first original associators to accomplish the like
+association, with a request to be informed of the sentiments and
+dispositions of the people in such towns. A letter was also sent on the
+same subject, to the sons of liberty at Portsmouth, in Hampshire colony.
+They met; and in their answer of February the eighth, testified their
+approbation of the measure already taken, and their determination to
+oppose the execution of the stamp act, &c.
+
+The Boston sons of liberty accepted the proposal of uniting themselves
+to _New-York_ and _Connecticut_; and in their letter to the brotherhood
+at _Norwich_, proposed to commence a continental union, of which the
+latter greatly approved in their answer of February the tenth.
+
+On February the thirteenth, the sons of liberty at _Boston_ wrote a
+_circular letter_ to _New-Hampshire_, _Connecticut_, and _New-York_; and
+before the month was ended, the _New-Yorkers_ sent circular letters as
+far as _South-Carolina_, urging a continental union.
+
+Most of the towns in the _Massachusetts_ having been applied to,
+signified “their determination to march with their whole force to the
+support of the British constitution, and consequently the relief of
+those that shall or may be in danger from the stamp act, or its
+abettors.”
+
+It is not to be supposed, that the disorderly proceedings above related,
+were chargeable solely on the dregs of the colonies.—The sons of liberty
+at New-York, who held regular meetings, were said to be directed by much
+greater persons than any that appeared among them. The mobs consisted
+not of mere rabble; but were composed much of independent freemen and
+freeholders, so that some of the first people in the provinces were
+intimidated, and left the cause of the parliament without proper
+support. Merchants, assemblymen, magistrates, &c. united directly or
+indirectly in the riots, and without their influence and instigation the
+lower class of inhabitants would have been quiet; but great pains were
+taken to rouse them into action. At _Boston_ such was the protection and
+countenance given to the rioters, that some of the principal ringleaders
+walked the streets with impunity, no officer daring to attack them, no
+attorney-general to prosecute them, no witness to appear against them,
+and no judge to sit upon them. But when the enormities are said to have
+originated from the Presbyterians and Congregationalists, the charge
+must be imputed to malevolence, or to gross ignorance, or a mixture of
+both. The gentlemen on the side of government who were upon the spot, in
+their letters written at the time, placed them to the account of the
+_Virginia_ resolves. Mr. _Hutchinson_ tells his correspondent, “Nothing
+extravagant appeared in the papers till an account was received of the
+_Virginia_ resolves.” Mr. _Hughes_ writes, “the fire began in
+Virginia:”—governor _Bernard_, “the publishing the _Virginia_
+resolutions proved an alarm bell to the disaffected:” another, in his
+letter to Mr. Secretary _Conway_ from _New-York_, “the resolves of the
+assembly of _Virginia_ gave the signal for a general outcry over the
+continent.” The _Virginians_ are episcopalians and if there is either
+blame or merit in exciting that fixed and spirited opposition to the
+stamp act which followed upon their resolves, let them be credited for
+the same; to them belongs the honor or disgrace; and solely to
+particular colonies the disgrace of the several enormites committed in
+them. The bulk of the people at _Boston_ are congregationalists; at
+_New-York_, the presbyterians, including the Dutch and foreign
+societies, may possibly be fully equal to, or even exceed the
+episcopalians. At _Newport_ all denominations are equally encouraged,
+and enjoy no ascendency over each other, and therefore might be equally
+concerned, the peaceable quakers excepted. At _New-York_ the most
+violent actors were episcopalians; at _Boston_ congregationalists;
+though here they were joined by a number of episcopalians, and there by
+a number of presbyterians.
+
+People in _Britain_ were differently affected by the disturbances in the
+colonies. This party was for supporting the authority of parliament at
+all adventures, and for enforcing the stamp act, if needful, with the
+point of the sword: that for quieting the colonies by the repeal of it.
+Happy for them, Mr. _Grenville_ and his party had thrown themselves out
+of place on a difference as to the regency bill; so that the marquis of
+_Rockingham_, and others in opposition, who were better inclined to the
+Americans, came into office, July 10, 1765. The marquis and his friends
+did not come to a resolution directly to repeal the act. The main lines
+of their own plan were not marked out, nor the repeal determined upon,
+until a little before the meeting of parliament. But the choice of the
+measure, and of the principle to proceed upon was made before the
+session. The papers relative to American affairs were produced to the
+house of commons; and it was a kind of plan on all sides, to maintain
+the authority of parliament, and by that very authority to give the
+colonies every relief the nature of the case required. But the great
+commoner Mr. _Pitt_, who neither communicated, nor connected himself
+with any one, came to the house and declared, that parliament had _no
+right_ to tax the colonies; and said also, _I am glad America has
+resisted_. He hereby deranged matters; threw the opposition into a rage;
+and reduced the ministry to a necessity of accompanying the repeal, with
+a declaratory bill, expressive of the _right_ of parliament to _bind_
+the colonies _in all cases whatsoever_.
+
+[1766.] Mr. _Grenville_ moved that the stamp act should be enforced, and
+was supported by 134, but opposed by 274—The merchants and manufacturers
+joined their efforts with ministry to obtain a repeal. They were alarmed
+at the non-importation agreement, and the confusions which existed, as
+being necessarily prejudicial to their own interests, and tending to the
+destruction of commerce. The ministry did not fail to encourage
+petitions, complaining of hardships brought on by the great decay of
+trade to the American colonies; and also instructions to members from
+the trading and manufacturing towns. The petition of congress was not
+admitted; the members not being called together by the authority of the
+crown, though a futile, was yet a prevailing argument against its
+admission. But the repeal was grounded on the other petitions; and after
+a six weeks inquiry into _American_ affairs, was moved for, with the
+greatest propriety, by general _Conway_, the secretary, who had opposed
+the stamp bill at the second reading, and denied the right of parliament
+to tax the Americans. The debate, which ensued, was warm, interesting
+and long. But, by three o’clock in the morning, “[Feb. 22.] the house,
+by an independent noble spirited and unexpected majority, in the teeth
+of all the old mercenary _Swiss_ of the state, in despite of all the
+speculators and augurs of political events, in defiance of the whole
+embattled legion of veteran pensioners and practised instruments of
+court, gave a total repeal to the stamp act, and (if the scheme of
+taxing the colonies had been totally abandoned) a lasting peace to the
+whole empire.”[88] The motion was carried by 275 against 167. The cyder
+counties supported it; for they expected a repeal of the duty on cyder,
+and obtained it in April. It has been said, that had not the ministry
+bartered the stamp act against the repeal of the cyder duty, they would
+not have succeeded.[89] This however must be a false charge, if the
+former marked paragraph is strictly true. During the debate, “the
+trading interests of the empire crammed into the lobbies of the house of
+commons, with a trembling and anxious expectation, and waited, almost to
+a winter’s return of light, their fate from the resolution of the house.
+When at length, they had determined in their favor, and the doors thrown
+open, showed them the figure of their deliverer, in the well earned
+triumph of his important victory, from the whole of that grave multitude
+there arose an involuntary burst of gratitude and transport. They jumped
+upon him, like children on a long absent father. They clung about him as
+captives about their redeemer, All _England_ joined in his applause. Nor
+did he seem insensible of the best of all earthly rewards, the love and
+admiration of his fellow citizens. _Hope elevated, and joy brightened
+his crest._”[90]
+
+The ministry had certainly great difficulties to encounter: the
+principal originated in the colonies, and were caused by the intemperate
+proceedings of the various ranks of men within them. “Their violence
+awakened the honor of parliament, especially after Mr. _Pitt’s_ speech,
+and thereby involved every friend of the repeal into the imputation of
+betraying its dignity. This is so true, that the act could not have been
+repealed, had not men’s minds been in some measure satisfied with the
+_declaration of right_.”[91] All the _Scotch_ members, save two, voted
+against the repeal. Mr. Bollan, who informed lieutenant-governor
+Hutchinson of it by letter, omitted mentioning the names of the
+gentlemen.
+
+The bill having passed the house of commons, went up to the house of
+lords. Lords _Bute_ and _Strange_ publicly declared, that his majesty’s
+wish was nor for a repeal. The marquis of _Rockingham_ and Lord
+_Shelberne_ went together to the king, and told what was reported. They
+were informed, that his majesty had expressed his desire that it should
+be inforced; but if it could not be done peaceably and without
+bloodshed, it was his sincere desire and intention that it should be
+totally repealed. The dukes of York and Cumberland, the lords of the
+bedchamber and the officers of the household, were for carrying fire and
+sword to America. Most of the bench of bishops joined them. Instead of
+ascribing that to a sanguinary disposition, to which their profession
+was opposed; let it be imputed to the painful prospect of being hindered
+eventually from establishing the English hierarchy whithin the American
+colonies. There was in the house of lords, proxies included, for the
+repeal 105, against it, 71.
+
+On Wednesday, March the nineteenth, his majesty went to the house of
+peers, and passed the bill for repealing the American stamp act; as also
+that for securing the dependency of the colonies on the British crown.
+On this occasion the American merchants made a most numerous appearance,
+to express their gratitude and joy; ships in the river displayed their
+colours; houses at night were illuminated all over the city, and every
+decent and orderly method was observed, to demonstrate the just sense
+they entertained of his majesty’s goodness, and wisdom of parliament in
+conciliating the minds of the people on this critical occasion. An
+express was dispatched immediately to Falmouth, with letters to the
+different provinces, acquainting them with the news of the repeal: that
+so their fears might vanish, and give place to joy and exultation.
+
+
+
+
+                               LETTER IV.
+
+
+                                              _Roxbury, April 14, 1773._
+
+Mr. _Samuel Adams’s_ name will occur frequently in the course of our
+correspondence; be it noted, therefore, that the first time of his being
+returned for _Boston_, [Sept. 27, 1765] and serving as a representative,
+was upon an election occasioned by the death of _Oxenbridge Thacher_,
+esq. The deceased belonged to the band of patriots; but when he happened
+to think differently from Mr. _Otis_, jun. in the house of assembly, the
+latter treated him in so overbearing and indecent a manner, that he was
+obliged at times to call upon the speaker to interpose and protect him.
+The state of affairs required a particular attention to the political
+sentiments of the person who should be chosen. The inhabitants, in
+fixing upon Mr. S. Adams, made choice of a member who was zealously
+attached to the rights of the Massachusetts in particular, and the
+colonies in general, and but little to his own personal interests. He
+was well qualified to second Mr. Otis, and learned in time to serve his
+own public views by the influence of the other. He was soon noticed by
+the house, chosen and continued their clerk from year to year, by which
+means he had the custody of their papers, and of these he knew how to
+make an advantage for political purposes. He was frequently upon
+important committees, and acquired great ascendency by discovering a
+readiness to acquiesce in the proposals and amendments of others, while
+the end aimed at by them, did not eventually frustrate his leading
+designs. He showed a pliableness and complaisance in these smaller
+matters, which enabled him in the issue to carry those of much greater
+consequence; and there were many favorite points which the sons of
+liberty in the _Massachusetts_ meant to carry, even though the stamp act
+should be repealed.
+
+[1766.] Mr. _Pitt_’s declaration against the parliament’s right to
+impose _internal taxes_, and his saying _I am glad America has
+resisted_, were seized with eagerness by the popular leaders in the
+colonies. They praised and idolized him for the same, without regarding
+what he had declared in favor of the authority of parliament in all
+cases of _external taxation_, and for enforcing all laws for that
+purpose; and notwithstanding his having said, “If obedience be refused,
+I would not suffer a horse-nail to be made in the plantations.” Their
+spirits were elated, and they took encouragement from his declaration,
+to fortify themselves in their own sentiments upon American liberty.
+
+It is impossible to express or describe the extraordinary joy with which
+the body of the Americans received the news of the repeal, though the
+power of the vice-admiralty courts remained unabridged, and the
+declaratory act was added. The latter was considered by some, as passed
+merely to save appearances, while contemned by others, whose wisdom
+would have been more evident had they repressed their contempt, whatever
+was their opinion. In regard to the former, “the judges of the
+vice-admiralty courts in the colonies, had assigned them, by acts of
+parliament, a jurisdiction for the recovery of penalties upon the laws
+of revenue and trade, without juries for near a century past.”[92] Had a
+prudent and moderate temper taken possession of all parties at this
+period, it had been happy: but they were so much heated in some
+colonies, as to be determined upon opposing each other.
+
+When the choice of members for _Boston_, to represent the town in the
+next general court, was approaching, Mr. _John Rowe_, a merchant, who
+had been active on the side of liberty in matters of trade, was thought
+of by some influential persons. Mr. _Samuel Adams_ artfully nominated a
+different one, by asking with his eyes looking to Mr. _Hancock_’s house,
+“Is there not another _John_ that may do better?” The hint took. Mr.
+_John Hancock_’s uncle was dead, and had left him a very considerable
+fortune. Mr. _Samuel Adams_ judged that the fortune would give credit
+and support to the cause of liberty; that popularity would please the
+possessor; and that he might be easily secured by prudent management,
+and might make a conspicuous figure in the band of patriots.
+
+Messrs. _James Otis_, jun. _Thomas Cushing_, _Samuel Adams_, and _John
+Hancock_ (who had never been of the house before) were returned for
+_Boston_. The town of _Plymouth_ made choice also of a new
+representative, the high sheriff of the county, _James Warren_, esq. a
+gentleman of real abilities, and who espoused the side of liberty upon
+principle. The government wished to have him upon their side, and played
+off both threats and promises; however he was immoveable.
+
+[May 28.] The general court met according to charter. The house of
+assembly chose Mr. _Otis_ speaker. Governor _Bernard_ negatived, instead
+of adopting the conciliating measure of accepting him. The acceptance
+might have softened and induced him to have dropped the plan of leaving
+out of the council, in the new election, the crown officers and justices
+of the superior court; but the refusal confirmed him in it, and by
+irritating the house, enabled him to execute it the more easily. The
+crown officers were, the lieutenant governor and secretary, Messrs.
+_Hutchinson_ and _Oliver_; the others held only provincial commissions.
+The opposition assigned as the reason for leaving them out, that they
+might redress a grievance long complained of by their constituents, a
+dangerous union of legislative and executive powers in the same persons.
+But the true ones probably were, the suspicions and dislike they
+entertained of and to their political sentiments, and Mr. _Otis_’s
+having been negatived. Mr. _Bernard_ retaliated, and excepted against
+the six counsellors chosen in the room of the others. Thus the animosity
+was increased. Had he negatived two or three only, there might have been
+an opening for healing the breach; but now it was otherwise. The liberty
+party gained strength, and it was ordered by the assembly [June 12.]
+“That the debates of this house be open, and that a gallery be erected
+for the accommodation of such as shall be inclined to attend them.” A
+gallery was prepared with the utmost expedition, and finished in a few
+days. It was viewed as a great acquisition to the common cause; and
+certainly served a double purpose. The admission of the people at large
+to hear the debates, and to watch the members, restrained some from
+speaking with their usual freedom in support of governmental measures;
+and encouraged others to indulge themselves in all that animated
+language, and those solemn protestations of disinterested zeal for the
+rights and privileges of their country, which are so taking with men of
+honest minds and plain understandings. But you are not to suppose that
+these protestations were always true on this side of the Atlantic any
+more than on yours. Many joined the banners of liberty, and violently
+opposed the governor and governmental measures, because of the
+restraints they were under from the laws of trade, the danger they were
+in of suffering by them, and his persisting to give these laws all the
+support in his power. The opposition had great advantage in the
+political contest, by branding all the supporters of government as
+friends to the stamp act, though they knew to the contrary. Both sides
+were sensible that the act was merely financial, without any regard to
+the political state of America, or any purpose to remove one of its
+difficulties.
+
+The house was unanimous in voting, that thanks should be returned to the
+duke of _Grafton_ and other noblemen, to Mr. _Pitt_ and other gentlemen,
+who had been active and aiding in the repeal of the stamp act. However,
+when his majesty’s recommendation to make up the losses of the sufferers
+in the late unhappy times, came before them from the governor, with
+these words, “The justice and humanity of this requisition is so
+forcible that it cannot be controverted; the authority with which it is
+introduced, should preclude all disputation about complying with it;”
+they objected to the manner in which it was proposed, as being
+“derogatory to the honor of the house, and in breach of the privileges
+thereof,” and unreasonably declined making compensation; whereas their
+privileges might have been preserved uninjured, by a vote to relieve the
+sufferers on their own application, out of dutiful respect to the mild
+representation of his majesty, and out of humanity and generosity to the
+sufferers.
+
+When a compensation was first talked of, it was the general opinion that
+it ought to be made, but that it was due from Boston only, and not the
+province in general. This thought probably determined the Boston members
+to oppose making the compensation even out of the treasury; a way in
+which it might have been done, had they and their friends joined the
+friends of government. But had the money been ordered out of the
+treasury, a subsequent motion might have charged it upon Boston, which
+as the tax bill was to be past at that time, would have been easily
+effected. The interest of the town induced its members to employ every
+circumstance to prevent the compensation’s being voted at present. After
+a while repeated advices were received, that the honor of parliament was
+engaged to see the compensation made, and that they would certainly take
+it in hand, if the provincial assembly refused. It was obvious that the
+parliament could enforce payment from a sea port. The people of Boston
+grew uneasy that the money was not paid. A town-meeting was called; the
+above mentioned expedient was proposed and approved of, and their
+representatives were directed to use their influence that compensation
+might be granted upon those principles, and the money be paid out of the
+treasury.
+
+[Sept.] Mr. _Hutchinson_ and the other sufferers petitioned for
+relief.[93] Their petitions were considered; and on the question being
+put, “Whether shall compensation be made out of the province treasury?”
+it passed in the negative. A bill, however, was finally admitted for
+making compensation, which was to be transmitted to the several towns,
+for the sentiments of the constituents.
+
+[Dec. 5.] It passed to be engrossed, yeas 53, nays 35; but not without
+the house’s resolving, “That it is under a full persuasion that the
+sufferers have no just claim or demand on the province.” A needless
+resolve, tending to excite disgust in many, without answering any
+important purpose. The act granted compensation to the sufferers; and a
+free and general pardon, indemnity, and oblivion to the offenders in the
+late times. It was disallowed at home, on account of the assembly’s
+having incorporated an act of pardon with an act of compensation,
+without having obtained his majesty’s previous consent to such an act of
+pardon. The sufferers, however, received the compensation, and the
+offenders were not prosecuted.
+
+[Nov. 7.] In _Virginia_ a bill passed the house of burgesses, for
+erecting a statue to his majesty, as an acknowledgment for repealing the
+stamp act, and also an obelisk to commemorate those worthy patriots who
+distinguished themselves in bringing about that happy event. And at
+_New-York_ [Dec.] an act was passed for making restitution to the
+several persons therein named, for losses sustained in the late
+commotions. But when the assembly was applied to for carrying into
+execution the act of parliament of the preceding year, for quartering
+his majesty’s troops, they said in their address to the governor, Sir
+_Henry Moore_, “According to the construction put on it here, it is
+required that all the forces which shall at any time enter this colony,
+shall be quartered during the whole year in a very unusual and expensive
+manner; by marching several regiments into this colony, this expence
+would become ruinous and insupportable; and therefore we cannot,
+consistent with our duty to our constituents, put it in the power of any
+person (whatsoever confidence we may have of his prudence and integrity)
+to lay such a burden on them,” and so justified their declining to
+provide for the troops.
+
+Before closing the account of 1766, be it observed, that the people of
+_Connecticut_ failed not to show their resentment against their late
+governor’s having qualified, agreeable to what the stamp act enjoined.
+There was a meeting of gentlemen at _Hartford_, for concerting a plan
+for the choice of a new governor and counsellors, in the room of those,
+who with him had taken the oath required. Matters were so managed at
+this meeting, that when the election came on, Mr. _Petkin_ was chosen
+governor, and colonel _Trumbull_ deputy governor. But the episcopalians,
+almost to a man, voted for Mr. _Fitch_; and by thus making a party with
+administration against the claims and rights of their colony, rendered
+themselves obnoxious.
+
+[Jan. 31, 1767.] The _Massachusetts_ house of assembly continued their
+opposition to the lieutenant governor Mr. _Hutchinson_, and resolved,
+“That he not being elected a counsellor, has by the charter, no right to
+a seat at the council board, with or without a voice, while the
+commander in chief is in the province.” March the fifth the council
+determined the same; but in their message to the house, expressed their
+surprise at what had been done without them, and at its not being
+mentioned to the board till February the twenty-fourth. Mr. _Hutchinson_
+afterward did not attempt to be present. Lord Shelburne, in answer to
+what was transmitted to him by the governor upon the affair, wrote in
+September, “the admission of the lieutenant governor, lies after all in
+the breast of the council only, as being the proper judges of their own
+privileges, and as having a right to determine whom they will admit to
+be present at their deliberations.” These proceedings of the
+_Massachusetts_ and _New-York_ assemblies, thought to be, in name at
+least, two of the most considerable in the colonies, were ascribed to an
+unreasonable perverseness of temper; and exasperated the friends of
+America by exposing them, however unjustly, to the imputation of
+sacrificing the interests of Great-Britain to those of America. They
+also encouraged the anti-Americans to resume the plan of taxing the
+colonies; and Mr. _Charles Townsend_ pawned his credit to them for
+effecting it, and became chancellor of the exchequer. But three of the
+ministry opposed in the council taxing the Americans afresh, and it
+would have been a blessing had their opinion prevailed.
+
+[May 13.] The chancellor of the exchequer moved for leave to bring in
+bills for granting a duty upon paper, glass, painters colours, &c. in
+the British American colonies; for settling salaries on the governors,
+judges, &c. in North-America; and for taking off the duty on teas
+exported to America, and granting a duty of three-pence a pound on the
+importation in America. Two bills were at length framed, the one for
+granting duties in the British colonies in America, on paper, glass,
+painters colours, tea, &c. the other for taking off the duty of a
+shilling a pound on all black and singlo tea, and for granting a
+drawback on teas exported to Ireland and America. The first received the
+royal assent June the twenty-ninth; the last July the second. The
+preamble to the first act expresses, that the duties are laid “for the
+better support of government, and the administration of the colonies.”
+The colonists deemed it unnecessary, unjust, and dangerous to their most
+important rights. There is a clause in it enabling the crown, by sign
+manual to establish _a general civil list_ throughout every province in
+_North-America_, to any indefinite extent, with any salaries, pensions,
+or appointments, to any unlimited amount, even to the produce of the
+last farthing of the American revenue. The point was now carried, which
+had been the object of every minister since the reign of Charles II.
+viz. _the establishment of a civil list in America, independent of the
+assemblies_. Mr. _Richard Jackson_ spoke in the house of commons against
+that part of the bill, and was supported only by Mr. _Huske_, and no
+other member. He was convinced, that though the judges ought to be
+independent both of crown and people, yet mischiefs might arise from the
+independency of governors on the people, much greater than could arise
+from their dependence; and that it was not fit that such persons as
+governors usually are, should be independent of the people, and
+dependent upon the crown for their governments. The act provides, that
+after all such ministerial warrants under the sign manual, as are
+_thought proper and necessary_, shall be satisfied, the residue of the
+revenue shall be at the disposal of the parliament. But who can suppose
+that such warrants will ever be satisfied till ministers have provided
+for all their friends and favorites? May it not be said upon the plan of
+this act, “the mockery of an American revenue proves at last to be the
+crumbs that fall from the minister’s table—the residue, indeed, of a
+royal warrant, countersigned by the first lord of the treasury.”[94]
+
+An account being received of _New-York_’s having refused to provide for
+quartering the troops, Mr. _Grenville_ and his adherents raised such a
+clamor against America, that it was thought necessary to bring in a bill
+[May 27.] “for restraining the assembly of _New-York_ from passing any
+act till they had complied with the act of parliament for the furnishing
+his majesty’s troops with the necessaries required by that act;” and it
+had the royal assent the second of July. The taking away in this manner
+from the province of _New-York_ all the powers of legislation, till they
+should comply with the former act, occasioned a general alarm among the
+Americans. They now saw that their own colonial parliaments, as they
+considered them, were to be bound to what the British ministry might
+deem their good behavior, by the acts of a British parliament. Nothing
+could be more grating to the sons of liberty in every province. It was
+the club of power, which, while it knocked down the _New-York_ assembly,
+threatened every other with the like, if not pliable.
+
+A plan of a board of commissioners for the American department, in order
+to ease the old board of commissioners of part of its burden through
+increasing business, had been in contemplation. It was intended to be
+placed in London, in order to be near the treasury, the ultimatum of
+revenue matters. Mr. _Paxton_, thought to be the most plausible and
+insinuating of mankind though not the most sincere, having left Boston
+and gone to Britain, had free access to the chancellor of the exchequer,
+Mr. _Charles Townsend_. It is said that he whined, cried, professed,
+swore, and made his will in favor of that great man; and then urged the
+necessity of an _American board of commissioners_, and his having a seat
+at it. He might forward the business. Be that as it may, the chancellor
+brought in a bill [June 3.] for establishing a custom-house and a board
+of commissioners in America, which also passed into an act at the same
+time with the former. Mr. Paxton, for his own convenience and pleasure,
+might procure the fixing the board at Boston; but of all places it was
+the most improper. The people were, of all others, the most jealous of
+infringements on their liberties; and were the least suited to see crown
+officers living among them in great state, upon what they could not but
+deem, from the mediocrity of their own circumstances, large salaries,
+payable from the revenue to be raised from the colonies. The board
+should have been placed at _New-York_. Smuggling was as prevalent there
+as at Boston. The inhabitants had been long used to crown officers with
+splendid appearances; the commanders of his majesty’s troops resided
+much among them; numbers of them lived in a higher stile than the
+Bostonians; beside, there the commissioners would have had forces at
+hand to have supported them, and have met with greater assistance from
+the servants of a royal government and their connections. The timing
+also as well as the placing of the board, was rather unfortunate; for it
+supplied the Americans with the opportunity of propagating that it was
+appointed merely to enforce the new duties. By this means the people
+were inflamed, and the appointment was pronounced unconstitutional and
+oppressive. The duties were to take place after the twentieth of
+November; and in the beginning of that month, three of the
+commissioners, _Henry Hulton_, _William Burch_, and _Charles Paxton_,
+esqs. arrived at Boston; the other two, _John Temple_ and _John
+Robinson_, esqs. were in America before. As to the expence of the board
+of customs, including the whole, it was a thousand pounds less than that
+of the four surveyors general, and the office connected with them at
+London. The chancellor had been instrumental in reviving those American
+animosities which the repeal of the stamp act had quieted; but did not
+live to see the fatal consequences which have followed, as he died the
+fourth of September.
+
+[Oct. 28.] A few gentlemen at a private club in _Boston_, having
+suggested a non-importation agreement, the thought was improved upon,
+till at length the inhabitants, at a town meeting, agreed upon measures
+to promote industry, œconomy, and manufactures; thereby to prevent the
+unnecessary importation of _European_ commodities. They also voted, that
+a subscription paper should be prepared, and a committee appointed to
+procure subscriptions to it; by which the parties engaged to encourage
+the use and consumption of all articles manufactured in any of the
+British American colonies; and after the thirty-first of December
+following, not to purchase certain enumerated articles imported from
+abroad.
+
+The failure of expected success from these measures, and an apprehension
+of disagreeable consequences from an ineffectual opposition, were
+probably the motives that induced Mr. _Otis_ at a subsequent
+town-meeting [Nov. 20.] to make a long speech on the side of government,
+wherein he asserted the king’s right to appoint officers of the customs,
+in which number and by what denomination he pleased; and that as to the
+new duties, it would be very imprudent in the town to make an opposition
+to them, when every town in the province, and every other province in
+America seemed to acquiesce in them and be contented. But the proposed
+measures were afterward approved of and adopted _Providence_ and
+_Newport_.
+
+[Jan. 1768.] The _Connecticut_ towns and _New-York_ followed the
+exemple. Still the business laboured without being productive of any
+important effects. This engaged the attention of one captain Malcolm, a
+small trader, who about eighteen months before had made himself famous
+by a violent and successful resistance with sword and pistol to the
+custom-house officers, when endeavouring to search his house for
+uncustomed goods, under the authority of a writ of assistance. Having,
+about the middle of February, safely run the cargo of a schooner from
+Fyall, consisting of about sixty pipes of wine, he, within two or three
+days, procured a meeting of some merchants and traders at which he
+presided. Nothing was determined upon more, than the calling of a
+general meeting of the merchants on Friday, March the fourth. This may
+be stiled the first movement of the merchants against the new acts of
+parliament. The result of this meeting was, that a subscription for not
+importing any English goods, except for the fishery, for eighteen
+months, should be prepared and carried round the town. It met with no
+great encouragement, and many declined subscribing. On this all engines
+were set to work; some were threatened and made afraid for their person
+and houses; others for their trade and credit.—By such means the
+subscription was filled. But the merchants of New-York and Philadelphia
+declined to concur in the measure, those of Boston were obliged to give
+it up for the present. However, they renewed it within a few months, as
+you will learn below.
+
+The _New-England_ spirit of patriotism and œconomy was greatly approved
+of at _Philadelphia_: and it was said, that “If America is saved from
+its impending danger, New-England will be its acknowledged guardian.”
+Periodical pieces were published at Boston on the nature and extent of
+British parliamentary power. Hints were thrown out about independency,
+and intimations given, that freemen were not to be governed any more
+than taxed but by their own consent, in real or virtual representatives.
+The power of British legislation over the Americans was questioned, and
+virtually denied. Matters were brought to this length, by broaching a
+new dispute that should never have been moved again; and which might
+happily have lain dorment for half a century or more had no fresh
+attempt been made to tax the Americans. Before the stamp act they
+allowed the mother country a certain prerogative over them. They
+acquiesced in the parliament’s right to make many acts, binding them in
+divers internal matters, and regulating their trade. They did not reason
+neither then nor immediately after the repeal, “if the parliament has no
+right to tax us _internally_, they have none to tax us _externally_, or
+to make any other law to bind us.” They admitted the distinction between
+internal and external taxation, and between raising money from the
+regulation of trade, and raising it for the purpose of a revenue. The
+wisdom of parliament should have abode by their concessions, and have
+adopted and confirmed their distinction. But being obliged to enter
+afresh the field of political controversy, great numbers began to think,
+that the want of representation in parliament, freed them absolutely
+from any obedience to the power of the British legislature; and that
+there was no real, and only a nominal difference between internal and
+external taxation, agreeable to what was insisted upon by the party
+opposing the repeal of the stamp act. _John Dickinson_, esq. began so
+early as in November, 1767, to employ his pen against the act which had
+been passed, in a series of _Letters from a farmer in Pennsylvania to
+the inhabitants of the British Colonies_. They amounted to twelve; and
+in them he ably maintained the rights of the colonists. He closed with a
+postscript in these words: “Is there not the greatest reason to hope, if
+the universal sense of these colonies is immediately exprest by
+_resolves_ of the assembles in support of their rights, by
+_instructions_ to their agents on the subject, and by _petitions_ to the
+crown and parliament for redress, that those measures will have the same
+success now that they had in the time of the stamp act?” The inhabitants
+of Boston were so sensible of the eminent service he did to the common
+cause, that they wrote to him upon the occasion. It his answer, April
+the eleventh, he said, “Never will my heart become insensible till
+insensible of all worldly things, of the unspeakable obligation I owe to
+the inhabitants of the _Massachusetts Bay_, for the vigilance with which
+they have watched over, and the magnanimity with which they have
+maintained the liberties of the _British colonies_ on this continent.”
+It was probably owing to Mr. _Dickinson’s_ publications, that the
+_Pennsylvania_ assembly, early in February, before they knew what
+measure the _Massachusetts Bay_, or any other colony, would pursue, took
+into consideration the act imposing duties on paper, glass, &c. and gave
+positive instructions to their agents, to unite with other agents, in
+applying to parliament and praying relief.
+
+It may be justly concluded, from governor _Bernard’s_ letters to lord
+Shelburne, that the Massachusetts assembly were inclined to bury in
+oblivion the discords occasioned by the stamp act, and to escape other
+subjects of future controversy, had not the late chancellor unhappily
+revived the animosities. “The house, (says the governor) from the time
+of opening the session to this day, has shown a disposition to avoid all
+dispute with me; every thing having passed with as much good humor as I
+could desire, except only their continuing to act in addressing the
+king, remonstrating to the secretary of state, and employing a separate
+agent. It is the importance of this innovation which induces me to make
+this remonstrance, at a time when I have a fair prospect of having in
+all other business, nothing but good to say of the proceedings of the
+house.”[95]
+
+“They have acted in all thing, even in their remonstrance, with temper
+and moderation: they have avoided some subjects of dispute, and have
+laid a foundation for removing some causes of former altercation.”[96]
+
+“I will make such a prudent and proper use of the letter, as, I hope,
+will perfectly restore the peace and tranquility of this province, for
+which purpose considerable steps have been made by the house of
+representatives.”[97]
+
+[Jan. 21.] The _Massachusetts_ house of representatives, in a debate
+upon the expediency of writing to the assemblies of the other colonies
+upon the continent, with respect to the importance of joining with
+them,” put a question on the proposition of writing letters, desiring
+those assemblies to join them, which was negatived for this very reason,
+because containing the proposition of joining. The house thought
+exceptions might be taken at it, as having a tendency to from
+combinations; and that it might be considered at home as the appointing
+another congress. It is an excellent rule of the house, that no vote
+shall be re-considered, unless the number of members present equals the
+number at its passing. When they had the same number, eithty-two, which
+makes a full house, a motion was made [Feb. 4.] for re-considering the
+vote against applying to the other colonies; and the vote of
+re-consideration was obtained by a large majority. The same day a
+committee was appointed to prepare a letter to be transmitted to the
+several houses of representatives and burgesses upon the continent, to
+inform them of the measures the house had taken with regard to
+difficulties they were apprehensive would arise from the operation of
+several acts of parliament for levying duties and taxes on the American
+colonies. The committee after deliberating a week, reported the letter,
+[Feb 11.] which being read in the house, was accepted almost
+unanimously, in the presence of eighty-three members. It began thus:
+“Sir, the house of representatives of this province have taken into
+their serious consideration the great difficulties that must accrue to
+themselves and their constituents, by the operation of several acts of
+parliament imposing duties and taxes on the American colonies.” It then
+related the measures they had taken in petitioning the king, making
+representations to the ministry, &c. and concluded with, “the house is
+fully satisfied that your assembly is too generous and enlarged in
+sentiment, to believe that this letter proceeds from an ambition of
+taking the lead or dictating to the other assemblies. They freely submit
+their opinion to the judgment of others, and shall take it kind in your
+house to point out to them any thing further that may be though
+necessary. This house cannot conclude without expressing their firm
+confidence in the king, our common head and father, that the united and
+dutiful supplications of his distressed American subjects will meet with
+his royal and favorable acceptance.”
+
+[Feb. 25.] _Peter Gilman_, esq. speaker of the _New-Hampshire_ assembly
+wrote by order of the house, in answer to the Massachusetts circular
+letter—“The sentiments contained in it are highly approved, and the
+communication kindly received and gratefully acknowledged. The time of
+the house’s existance in that relation is near expiring; they cannot
+engage for their successors and can only express their satisfaction in
+the Massachusetts proceedings, and declare their hopes, that the next
+assembly will heartily concur in sentiments on this affair, and pursue
+the same method.” The letter ran in the highest recommendatory strain of
+the Massachusetts Bay assembly; and concluded with, “What remains for us
+at present, is to offer our daily prayer to the Governor and Lord of the
+universe, to avert the impending evil, and to make way for the full
+establishment of British liberty in every branch of it, and to quiet
+every colony in the enjoyment of all their civil and religious rights
+and privileges.” For these courtly expressions, with which the house
+declined doing any thing in the business, the next assembly was rewarded
+with courtly commendations. The governor, _John Wentworth_, esq. in a
+message of October the twentieth, communicated the copy of the following
+extract of a letter from Lord _Hillsborough_, of July the ninth: “It is
+his majesty’s pleasure that you should assure his faithful subjects in
+_New-Hampshire_, that his majesty has nothing more at heart than to
+promote their welfare and happiness, whose cheerful obedience to the
+laws of this kingdom, and steady resolution in refusing to accede to the
+measures and proposals which have been urged with so much indecent
+warmth in other colonies, cannot fail to recommend them to his royal
+favour and countenance.” The assembly, however, nine days after,
+petitioned the king, and mentioned that his royal predecessors granted
+them a power of legislation, limited to the approbation or disallowance
+of the crown, with the powers and privileges essential to British
+liberty, of raising internal taxes by their own representatives. The
+petition was most profoundly humble, and so softly worded, that it could
+not offend the most delicate ear of the highest parliamentary
+prerogative man. By some accident or contrivance, it was not sent till
+antiquated and out of season. Mr. _Wentworth_ had gained an ascendency
+over the people of his government, by which he kept them from entering
+into such spirited measures for the redress of grievances as would be
+offensive to ministry. The other colonies adopted a different line of
+conduct. The _Virginia_ house of burgesses applauded the _Massachusetts_
+representatives for their attention to American liberty; took notice of
+the act suspending the legislative powers of _New-York_; and said, “If
+the parliament can compel the colonies to furnish a single article to
+the troops sent over, they may, by the same rule, oblige them to furnish
+clothes, arms, and every other necessary, even to the pay of the
+officers and soldiers, a doctrine replete with every mischief, and
+utterly subversive of all that is dear and valuable.” The council
+concurred with them in all their proceedings; and their agent was
+enjoined to consult the agents of the other colonies, and to co-operate
+with them in applying for redress. Most of the assemblies upon the
+continent, as they had opportunity, approved of the doings of the
+Massachusetts, and harmonized with them in resolves and petitions.
+[April 22.] But an account of their doings had not reached Great-Britain
+long, before lord _Hillsborough_ wrote Gov. _Bernard_ upon the occasion.
+For want of fuller and juster information, or of due attention to the
+governor’s expressions, the proceeding which originated the circular
+letter, was mentioned—“as unfair, contrary to the real sense of the
+assembly, and procured by surprise; and therefore” upon this mistaken
+principle, the governor was instructed, “so soon as the general court is
+again assembled, to require of the house of representatives, in his
+majesty’s name, to rescind the resolution which gave birth to the
+circular letter from the speaker, and to declare their disapprobation
+of, and dissent to that rash and hasty proceeding.” In case they refused
+to comply, he was immediately to dissolve them, and to transmit to his
+lordship an account of their transactions. [June 21.] The house was
+informed of what was required; and three days after, of what they were
+to expect if unpliable. Their resolution not being returned within six
+days of the last part of the information, the governor sent them word he
+could wait no longer, which hastened the business in which they were
+engaged.
+
+[30.] A committee of the house reported a letter to Lord _Hillsborough_,
+setting forth the several votes and resolutions which passed in the last
+house of representatives, relating to the circular letter; and showing
+that the whole of these matters was transacted in the height of the
+cession in a full house, and by a large majority. The letter was
+approved of by 93 out of 105 members present, and ordered to be
+transmitted to his lordship. The house agreed also upon a message to the
+governor, in which they said, “It is to us incomprehensible that we
+should be required, on the peril of a dissolution of the general court,
+to rescind a resolution of a former house, when it is evident, that that
+resolution has no existence but as a mere historical fact. Your
+excellency must know, that the resolution is, to speak in the language
+of the common law, not now executory, but to all intents and purposes
+executed. If, as is most probable, by the word rescinding is intended
+the passing a vote, in direct and express disapprobation of the measure
+taken by the former house as illegal, inflammatory, and tending to
+promote unjustifiable combinations against his majesty’s peace, crown
+and dignity, we must take the liberty to testify and publicly declare,
+that we take it to be the native, inherent, and indefeasible right of
+the subject, jointly or severally, to petition the king for the redress
+of grievances; provided alway, that the same be done in a decent,
+dutiful, loyal and constitutional way, without tumult, disorder and
+confusion.—If the votes of the house are to be controuled by the
+direction of a minister, we have left us but a vain semblance of
+liberty.—We have now only to inform you, that this house have voted _not
+to rescind_, and that on a division on the question, there were
+ninety-two nays, and seventeen yeas.” The message was firm, patriotic,
+and spirited; and in some parts allusively severe upon the governor, but
+every where decently expressed. The rescinders were governmental
+receivers or expectants. They had, or looked for a reward for their
+crouching compliance. The next day [July 1.] the governor passed some
+necessary acts, and then dissolved the assembly. It is scarce
+conceivable how a new assembly of representatives could think themselves
+capable of being more grossly insulted, than by being made accountable
+for the proceedings of a dissolved and dead one, and by being punished
+with immediate destruction for not declaring themselves of opposite
+sentiments to their predecessors. Mr. _Otis_, in his speech against
+rescinding, said, “When Lord Hillsborough knows that we will not rescind
+our acts, he should apply to parliament to rescind theirs. _Let Britain
+rescind their measures or they are lost for ever._” His speech, by the
+patriotic enthusiasts was extolled to the skies; and by the governmental
+ones, was declared to be the most violent, insolent, abusive,
+treasonable declamation, that perhaps ever was delivered. While the
+matter of rescinding was under consideration, the house received an
+answer from _Virginia_, and one from _New-Jersey_, which, though not so
+very high as the other, was far from being unfavorable. They had also
+intelligence that they might expect the like from other assemblies:
+these circumstances probably increased the majority against rescinding.
+Had it not been for the mandate to rescind, the sessions might have
+terminated prosperously and peaceably; for Mr. _Otis_, though he had
+distinguished himself by carrying the objections to the authority of
+parliament to the greatest length, had retracted all his former
+opinions, in a set speech at the opening of it. He said, he had fully
+informed himself of the relation between Great-Britain and her colonies;
+and was convinced that the power of parliament over her colonies was
+absolute, with this qualification, that they ought not to tax them until
+they allowed them to send representatives; and that if the colonies had
+representatives, the power of parliament would be as perfect in America
+as in England. He then argued for an American representation. This
+surprised the assembly, and induced a member on the side of government
+to charge the opposition with the intention of making an American
+representation necessary, by denying the authority of parliament over
+them because not represented. The answers of the other party were
+thought to strengthen the suspicion. Upon which Mr. Timothy Ruggles
+pointedly said, that as they were determined to have representatives, he
+begged leave to recommend to them a merchant who would undertake to
+carry their representatives to England for half what they would sell for
+when they arrived there. But the best argument to have silenced any of
+the opposition, who might interestedly hanker after an American
+representation, would have been to have repeated the resolve of the
+house on the 29th of October, 1765—“A representation in parliament of
+the inhabitants of the province, such as the subjects in Britain
+actually enjoy, is impracticable for the subjects in America.” The day
+before lord _Hillsborough_ wrote to Mr. _Bernard_ upon the business of
+rescinding, a circular letter was written to the governors of the
+respective provinces, to accompany a copy of that of the
+_Massachusetts_, in which his lordship said, “It is his majesty’s
+pleasure, that you should immediately, on the receipt hereof, exert your
+utmost influence to defeat this flagitious attempt to disturb the public
+peace, by prevailing upon the assembly of your province to take no
+notice of it, which will be treating it with the contempt it deserves.”
+He then added a closing paragraph meant to influence the assemblies into
+a compliance. The circular letter was in some instances received in
+time, but produced a very different effect from what was intended. The
+_New-York_ assembly had felt the weight of the parliament’s high
+displeasure, and been bereaved of legislative power till they should
+comply with the billeting act. In the beginning of the year they voted
+the sum wanted to the general, for the purchase of salt, pepper and
+vinegar, instead of passing an act conformable to the parliament’s act,
+which vote was accepted. But when they met at the close of the year,
+after having completed a petition to his majesty, another to the lords,
+and a remonstrance to the commons, they proceeded to consider the
+circular letters from the assemblies of _Massachusetts-Bay_ and
+_Virginia_, and unanimously agreed to answer them in the most respectful
+manner. They then entered into some very spirited resolves in favor of
+liberty, and the rights of their constituents; and appointed a committee
+to correspond and consult with any other his majesty’s subjects out of
+the colony, either individually or collectively, on any matter or thing
+whatsoever, whereby the rights or privileges of the house or its
+constituents might be affected. These doings occasioned their being
+dissolved.
+
+We are now entering upon another interesting period.
+
+It had been the common practice for the tide-waiter, upon the arrival of
+a vessel, to repair to the cabin, and there to remain, drinking punch
+with the master, while the sailors and others upon deck were employed in
+landing the wines, molasses, or other dutiable goods. The commissioners
+of the customs were determined that the laws of trade should be
+executed.
+
+Upon the arrival of Mr. _Hancock_’s sloop _Liberty_, _Nathaniel
+Bernard_, master, from _Madeira_, the tidesman, _Thomas Kirk_, went on
+board in the afternoon. Captain _Marshall_, in Mr. _Hancock_’s employ,
+followed; and about nine in the evening, made several proposals to
+_Kirk_, which being rejected, captain _Marshall_, with five or six
+others, laid hold of, overpowered, and confined him below for three
+hours, in which time the wine was taken out, before entry had been made
+at the custom-house or naval office. _Marshall_ threatened _Kirk_ in
+case of discovery. The captain wrought so hard in unloading the sloop,
+that his sudden death, that night, while in bed, before assistance could
+be obtained, was generally believed to have been owing to some injury
+received from his uncommon exertions. The next morning the master
+entered, as it is said, four or five pipes, and swore that was the whole
+of his cargo. It was resolved to seize the sloop for a false entry’s
+being made; though it was thought by many that no one would undertake
+the business.
+
+[June 10.] Mr. _Joseph Harrison_, the collector, and Mr. _Benjamin
+Hallowell_, the comptroller, repaired to Hancock’s wharf. Mr. _Harrison_
+objected to the unseasonableness of the time, being between six and
+seven, when the lower class of people were returning from their day
+labour. The seizure however was made before sun-set, so as to be
+perfectly legal. Mr. _Harrison_ thought the sloop might lie at the
+wharf, after clapping the broad arrow upon her; but Mr. _Hallowell_
+judged it would be best to move her under the guns of the _Romney_, and
+made signal for her boats to come ashore. The people upon the wharf
+cried out, “There is no occasion, she will lie safe, and no officer has
+a right to remove her;” but the master of the man of war cut her
+moorings and carried her off. Every mean was used to interrupt the
+officers in the execution of their business, and numbers swore that they
+would be revenged. A mob was soon collected, which increased to a
+thousand or two, chiefly of sturdy boys and negroes. The minds of the
+people were inflamed by the seizure and removal of the vessel. They had
+been before irritated by the captain of the man of war’s pressing some
+seamen belonging to the town; add to that; their aversion to the board
+of commissioners, the popularity of the owner, and the name of the
+sloop—these of course excited their resentments, and wrought them up
+into a combustible body. Captain Malcolm, who was deeply engaged in
+running the wines, headed a number of men after the seizure, and was
+very active in attempting to prevent the sloop’s being removed. Mr.
+_Harrison_ was pelted with stones, bricks, and dirt, and received
+several blows with sticks, particularly one on the breast, so that it
+was with difficulty he could keep from falling; he was afterward
+confined to his bed from the injuries he had received. Mr. _Hallowell_,
+Mr. _Irving_, inspector of imports and exports, and the collector’s son
+were sharers in the treatment. They all escaped with the utmost hazard
+of their lives. Mr. _Hallowell_ was confined to his house under the care
+of a surgeon from wounds and bruises. Mr. _Richard Harrison_, the
+collector’s son, was thrown down, dragged by the hair of his head, and
+otherwise treated barbarously. Mr. _Irving_ was beaten with clubs and
+sticks; had his sword broken to pieces, and received a few slight
+wounds. The mob proceeded to the houses of the collector and
+comptroller, broke their windows, and those of Mr. _Williams_, inspector
+general, then dragged the collector’s boat through the town, and burnt
+it on the common. This was on Friday evening. Saturday and Sunday
+evenings are sacred; and the commissioners _Hulton_, _Burch_, _Paxton_
+and _Robinson_, esqrs. remained pretty easy; during the outrages, to
+avoid insults, they retired from their own to neighbours houses. But
+receiving information that further riots were intended, and the governor
+telling them he could not protect them, and that there would be no
+safety for them in Boston, considering the temper of the people; on
+Monday morning early, they sent a card to the governor, to let him know
+that they were going on board the Romney, and desired his orders for
+their reception at the castle, which he readily gave. They repaired
+first on board the man of war, and then proceded from thence to the
+castle. The collector and comptroller, and most of the other officers of
+the customs withdrew, either then or afterward. [13.] On the Monday
+morning large numbers of people were gathered together, and to
+appearance regularly formed into parties, under their different leaders,
+in several parts of the town. If they meant any thing against the
+commissioners, they were disappointed by their having withdrawn. In the
+afternoon printed tickets were put up, notifying a meeting of the sons
+of liberty the next day at ten o’clock. This prevented all mischief in
+the evening. [14.] At the appointed time, thousands of the lower class
+met; but the day being rainy, numbers adjourned to Faneuil-hall, and
+there agreed to send the constables about to notify a legal town meeting
+for the afternoon. Little else was done at this meeting, but the
+appointing a committee to wait upon the governor with a petition, the
+receiving his answer, writing a letter to a friend, and voting such
+instructions as they thought proper to their representatives. The common
+talk was that the removal of the sloop was an affront to the town, as it
+contained an insinuation, that she would not have been safe if left at
+the wharf in custody of a custom-house officer. It was asserted, and
+very truely, that there had been no rescue lately; but an invincible
+reason existed for it, as no seizure had been lately made. When captain
+Malcolm, more that a year and a half back, opposed in an armed manner,
+the officers attempting to search his house, such a number of people
+assembled about it, when he had got the officers out and shut his gates
+against them, that they were glad to retreat without doing their
+business. This defiance the of law passed unnoticed and unpunished, so
+that the officers never afterward attempted to make a seizure, although
+informations were not wanting, until the present time, when they were
+ordered by their superiors. About a month after, a schooner was seized
+for having thirty hogsheads of molasses on board, and was left at the
+wharf in custody of two custom-house officers. July the eighth at night,
+thirty men boarded her, confined the officers to the cabin, and carried
+off the molasses. The town’s-people were dissatisfied that their
+declarations concering the sloop Liberty, that she would have been safe
+if left at the wharf, should be so soon falsified. The select men sent
+for the master, and ordered him to return the molasses directly under
+pain of the displeasure of the town. It was immediately done, and the
+molasses put on board again, the day after it was conveyed away.
+
+The day before the town meeting of June the fourteenth, a committee of
+both houses was appointed to inquire into the state of the province.
+When they made their report, [30.] in speaking of the affair on Friday
+the tenth, they said, “The seizure occasioned a number of people to be
+collected, who, from the violence and unprecedentedness of the procedure
+in carrying off the vessel, _&c._ took occasion to insult and abuse the
+officers, and to commit other disorders, _&c._—Resolved, that though the
+extraordinary circumstances of said seizure may extenuate the
+criminality, yet being of a very criminal nature, and of dangerous
+consequence, the two houses delare their utter abhorrence and
+detestation of them and resolve that the governor be desired to direct
+the attorney-general to prosecute all persons concerned in the said
+riot, and that a proclamation be issued, offering a reward for making
+discovery, so as the rioters or abettors may be brought to condign
+punishment.” Neither rioters not abettors had any thing to fear from
+either proclamation or prosecution; and knew themselves to be perfectly
+safe, notwithstanding the report; but the politicians saw it was
+expedient to say something to save appearances, and well-meaning persons
+might join them, in the simplicity of their hearts, believing that the
+others intended their words should be productive of the events to which
+they seemingly pointed. At the sitting of the superior court in August,
+the grand jury was found to have among them several of the abettors of
+the Boston rioters, and particularly the famous captain Malcolm, a
+circumstance that necessarily quashed all informations and prosecutions,
+as it strongly foreboded their issue.
+
+The council in a letter to Lord _Hillsborough_ insinuated, that the
+commissioners had concerted a plan, with the design of raising a
+disturbance by the seizure of the sloop Liberty. The insinuation must be
+placed to the ill will they bore to the commissioners, more than to any
+thing beside. On the twenty-ninth of July, they said, “The commissioners
+were not obliged to quit the town; there never had been any insult
+offered to them; their quitting the town was a voluntary act of their
+own; we do not apprehend there was any sufficient ground for their
+quitting it.” But it appears from a manuscript in Mr. _Hutchinson_’s
+hand writing, that the commissioners applied, December the nineteenth,
+to each of the four judges of the superior court separately for their
+opinions upon four questions; and that after having conferred together,
+they were unanimously of opinion,
+
+“That from the spirit which had been excited in the populace against all
+the commissioners of the customs, Mr. _Temple_ excepted, they could not
+have remained long in safety at Boston after the seizure of the sloop
+Liberty, but would have been in great danger of violence to their
+persons and properties from a mob, which, at that time, it was generally
+expected would be raised for that purpose:
+
+“That government was insufficient to restrain, suppress or punish the
+several mobs, which had been assembled since the fourteenth of August,
+1765; and that at the time of the commissioners retiring to the castle,
+there was no probability that the same authority could have had any
+greater force:
+
+“That they could not have returned to town, and executed their
+commission with safety, at any time after they withdrew, before the
+arrival of his majesty’s troops:
+
+“And that they knew of no better measure that they could have taken,
+than retiring to Castle William.”
+
+Mr. _Temple_ was excepted, for he was not obnoxious to the populace,
+being averse to the establishment of the board of commissioners, which
+lessoned both his salary and his power. He wished the dissolution of it
+and to be restored to his former place of surveyor general of the
+customs. Though the rest of the commissioners could not have returned to
+have executed their commission with safety, they might most probably
+have returned and been safe, had they declined executing the same, which
+however was not to be expected. They continued at, but were not confined
+to the castle. They rode adout the country at pleasure, without any
+interuption from the people.
+
+[June 15.] The commissioners wrote to general Gage, colonel Dalrymple,
+and commodore Hood, desiring troops to support them in their office.
+Whatever this application might contribute toward the sending of them,
+yet it certainly did not give rise to it. Measures had been taken to
+procure them long before. Mr. _Paxton_, when in London the preceding
+year, told Mr. _Bollan_ repeatedly, that Mr. _Hutchinson_ and some other
+of his friends were of opinion, that standing troops were necessary to
+support the authority of the government at Boston; and that he was
+authorised to inform him of this their opinion. Most probably he was
+authorised to inform others also. Mr. _Bollan_ was against sending
+troops, and when there was a talk of doing it, endeavoured to prevent
+it, and freely related to a gentleman of considerable influence, what
+some of the principal merchants said, that they who should send over the
+standing troops, would certainly be cursed to all posterity.[98] But the
+disposition of some to try the experiment was strengthened by a letter
+from the commissioners to the lords of the treasury, received before the
+riot happened; and rendered efficacious upon the arrival of governor
+_Bernard_’s letters at the secretary’s office, especially that of March,
+giving an aggravated detailed account of a terrible disturbance on the
+joyous anniversary of the repeal of the stamp act, which general _Gage_,
+in his letter of October to Lord _Hillsborough_, declared, from the best
+intelligence he could procure, to have been trifling. When the matter
+came to be considered, it was agreed to send troops to Boston.
+Accordingly, Lord _Hillsborough_, in his secret and confidential letter
+to Gen. _Gage_, [June 8.] wrote, “I am to signify to you his majesty’s
+pleasure, that you do forthwith order one regiment, or such force as you
+shall think necessary, to Boston, to be quartered in that town, and to
+give every legal assistance to the civil magistrate, in the preservation
+of the public peace, and to the officers of the revenue, in the
+execution of the laws of trade and revenue; and as this appears to be a
+service of a delicate nature, and possibly leading to consequences not
+easily foreseen, I am directed by the king to recommend to you to make
+choice of an officer for the command of those troops, upon whose
+prudence, resolution and integrity, you can entirely rely.” And on the
+eleventh, he informed the governor, that his majesty, from the
+representation made by him and the commissioners of the customs, had
+directed one regiment at least to be stationed in Boston, and to
+garrison, and (if necessary) to repair the castle; and had ordered a
+frigate, two sloops, and two cutters to repair to, and remain in the
+harbour of Boston, for supporting and assisting the officers of the
+customs in the execution of their duty. His lordship’s letter to Gage
+being dated two days before the riot occasioned by the seizure of the
+sloop Liberty, the order contained in it, could not possibly be founded
+on such riot; though the riot, with the subsequent transactions of the
+town, might be related as a reason in the resolves afterward drawn up,
+exhibiting the necessity of sending a military force to Boston. But
+persons in office are liable to fall into mistakes, through the
+multiplicity and hurry of business, and for want of due consideration or
+better intelligence. In this way you may account for his lordship’s
+signing a circular letter, [Sept. 2.] to the governor and council of
+_Rhode-Island_, to the following purpose—“Gentlemen, the king having
+observed, that the governors of his colonies have, upon several
+occasions, taken upon them to communicate to their councils and
+assemblies, either the whole or parts of letters from his majesty’s
+principal secretary of state, I have it in command to signify, that it
+is his majesty’s pleasure that you do not, upon any pretence whatever,
+communicate to the assembly, any copies or extracts of such letters,
+unless you have his majesty’s particular directions.” This was soon
+published in the _Providence_ Gazette after being received. That colony
+chooses its own governor annually and he has neither right nor power to
+with-hold from the assembly copies of any such letters. Upon another
+occasion his lordship gave orders to the governor of _Pennsylvania_, in
+case the assembly did not act conformable to what was expected,
+immediately to dissolve them; whereas it is the inherent privilege of
+that house to set on their own adjournments; and the governor has no
+power to dissolve them.
+
+[Nov. 3.] A month after the arrival of the troops at _Boston_ Mr.
+_Hancock_ was served with a precept for £.9000 sterling, by the marshal
+of the court of admiralty. The marshal having arrested him, demanded
+bail for £.3000. Five other gentlemen were arrested for the like sum. He
+and the five others gave bail.—The commissioners prosecuted the supposed
+owner, and each person they imagined concerned in unloading the wines,
+for the value of the whole cargo and treble damages. The vessel seized
+was restored after a long detention; and the suits in the courts of
+admiralty dropped, March the twenty-sixth, 1769, by a declaration from
+the king’s advocate, that his majesty would prosecute no further. It was
+idle to think of supporting the prosecution by sufficient evidence. Want
+of inclination or fear would prevent witnesses appearing, and corruption
+would procure counterevidence from men of no principle, who would
+justify themselves from the prosecution’s being built upon acts of
+parliament, to which they supposed the colonies owed no obedience; and
+would plead, as in too many instances is done at home, that it is not he
+who takes, but he who imposes the oath, who is chargeable with the crime
+of swearing falsely. The law would not allow the prosecuted any costs or
+damages. In this case the allowance would have been unreasonable; the
+innocence of the parties could not have been urged in its behalf.
+
+The colonists could not overlook the good effects produced by the former
+non-importation agreement; and were earnest for playing off the same
+engine against the new attempts of ministry, to saddle them with the
+payment of taxes. About the beginning of April, several gentlemen of
+_Boston_ and _New-York_, wrote to others at _Philadelphia_, in order to
+learn, whether they would unite with them in stopping the importation of
+goods from _Great-Britain_, until certain acts of parliament should be
+repealed, which were thought to be injurious to their rights, as freemen
+and British subjects. A numerous meeting of merchants followed, when an
+address was read to them. It set forth the claims of the colonies, and
+then went into an enumeration of grievances, which the colonists had
+long borne, and seemed willing to forget, had they not been alarmed
+afresh by the late proceedings of the ministry. The address remarked,
+that, in the act obliging the several assemblies to provide quarters for
+the soldiers, &c. a power is granted to every officer, upon obtaining a
+warrant from any justice (which warrant the justice is empowered and
+ordered to grant, without any previous oath) to break into any house by
+day or by night, under pretence (these are the words of the act) of
+searching for deserters. It pointed out to them the danger they were in,
+of having erected over them a despotic government, to rule them as
+slaves. It called upon them to deliberate, by what means they might
+defend their rights and liberties, and obtain a repeal of the obnoxious
+acts. It urged them to join in the measure proposed by their brethren of
+_Boston_ and _New-York_; and closed with “_United we conquer, divided we
+die_.” The _Pennsylvania_ merchants agreed with the other colonies in
+opinion, that the revenue acts were unconstitutional; but declined
+adopting the non-importation agreement, as they believed it to be
+premature. They knew that multitudes in Great-Britain would suffer much
+by a suspension of trade with her, whenever it should be carried into
+execution; and judged that it ought not to be made use of but as the
+last and most certain remedy, when petitions proved ineffectual. They
+saw clearly that the acts were manifestly injurious to the British
+trade, and hoped the parliament would therefore find it expedient to
+repeal them; and were willing to allow a proper time for the repeals
+being effected. These reasons induced them to refuse complying with the
+solicitations of their neighbours. But the merchants and traders of
+Philadelphia agreed upon a memorial, wherein they stated their
+grievances, which was transmitted to their mercantile friends in London,
+on whose assistance they relied for an application to government for
+relief; and this they hoped to obtain as to some of the chief, though it
+might not be all the articles of complaint.
+
+But the _Boston_ merchants and traders having been drawn in, partly by
+their connections with the politicians and the fear of opposing the
+popular stream, agreed upon a new subscription paper, [Aug. 1.] wherein
+they engaged as follows:—“We will not send for or import from
+Great-Britain, either upon our own account, or upon commissions, this
+fall, any other goods than what are already ordered for the fall
+supply.”—“We will not send for or import any kind of goods or
+merchandise from Great-Britain, _&c._ from the first of January, 1769,
+to the first of January, 1770, except salt, coals, fish-hooks and lines,
+hemp and duck, bar lead and shot, wool-cards and card-wire.”—“We will
+not purchase of any factor or others, any kind of goods imported from
+Great-Britain, from January, 1769, to January, 1770.”—“We will not
+import on our own account, or on commissions, or purchase of any, who
+shall import from any other colony in America, from January, 1769, to
+January, 1770, any tea, glass, paper or other goods commonly imported
+from Great-Britain.”—“We will not, from and after the first of January,
+1769, import into this province any tea, paper, glass, or painters
+colours, until the act imposing duties on those articles shall be
+repealed.” The subscription paper was carried about town; and, at
+length, generally signed, though several respectable merchants remained
+non-subscribers. The same month the _Connecticut_ and _New-York_
+merchants came into similar agreements; and those of _Salem_, the
+beginning of September. Some merchants had undoubtedly the foresight to
+provide for an abstinence from importation for a year, by unusually
+large orders.
+
+A report having been spread that governor _Bernard_ had intimated his
+apprehensions that one or more regiments were to be daily expected at
+_Boston_, a meeting of the inhabitants was called, and a committee
+appointed to wait on him to know the grounds of his apprehensions, and
+to pray him to issue precepts forthwith for convening a general
+assembly. He acknowledged his having received those informations which
+produced such apprehensions, but said they were of a private nature. The
+calling of another assembly he told them could not be complied with,
+till his majesty’s commands were received. The answer being reported, it
+was resolved, “That the freeholders, and other inhabitants of the town
+of Boston, will, at the peril of their lives and fortunes, take all
+legal and constitutional measures to defend all and singular the rights,
+liberties, privileges, and immunities, granted in their royal charter.”
+It was also declared to be the opinion of those present, “That a
+suitable number of persons to act for them as a committee in convention,
+with such as may be sent to join them from the other towns, should be
+now chosen, in order that such measures may be consulted and advised, as
+his majesty’s service, and the safety of the province may require.” It
+was then voted, “That the select men of Boston should write to the
+select men of the other towns, to acquaint them with the foregoing
+resolutions, and to propose, that a convention be held at Fanueil-hall
+in Boston, on the twenty-second instant.” It was afterward voted, “That,
+as there is an apprehension, in the minds, of many, of an approaching
+war with France, those inhabitants who are not provided, be requested to
+furnish themselves forthwith with arms.
+
+[Sept. 22.] The _convention_, consisting of committees from ninety-six
+towns and eight districts, met as proposed; and after conference and
+consultation, petitioning the governor, declaring that they only
+considered themselves as private persons, making loyal professions,
+expressing their aversion to standing armies, to tumults and disorders,
+their readiness to assist in suppressing riots and preserving the peace,
+and recommending patience and regard to good order, they broke up and
+went home on Thursday the twenty-ninth. Advice was received the day
+before, that the men of war and transports from Halifax, with some
+hundreds of troops, were safe arrived at Nantasket harbour, a few miles
+below Castle William. Two days before the convention closed, they
+dispatched a letter to Mr. _Berdi_, containing a representation of what
+had taken place, with such papers and instructions as were judged most
+suitable to the circumstances of their assembly.
+
+When the news was first received of troops being ordered to Boston,
+broad hints were thrown out that they should never land; and to
+strengthen the appearance of an intention to oppose them, a barrel was
+placed upon the beacon, supposed to be a tar barrel, to have been fired
+to call in the country upon the troops appearing, which was afterwards
+found to be an empty nail barrel. Many of the deputies came down to the
+convention, with instructions and dispositions to prevent the Bostonians
+involving the province in the fatal consequences of their own furious
+devices. Numbers were from the beginning sensible of the impropriety and
+danger of their proceeding, and desirous by a moderate conduct, to
+correct the one and ward off the other. The governor’s message to them
+after their address, was high, and might tend to keep some of them in
+awe, as the troops were thought to be at no great distance. When Mr.
+_Otis_ joined them, instead of being violent he was quite moderate: and
+when Mr. _Samuel Adams_ attempted to launch out into the same free and
+unrestrained language to which he was accustomed in the house of
+representatives, he was presently silenced.
+
+The convention having finished in the above manner, the persons just
+named assumed to themselves the moderation of those whom they called
+together for very different purposes. The governor himself was not
+always wholly ignorant of what was going forward among the sons of
+liberty. He kept up an acquaintance with some of them, and by that
+means, at times, procured useful intelligence, while he gave his
+informers the strongest assurance that their names should not be quoted,
+nor any communication be made of it, which could make them suspected.
+Too much occasion was given for this paragraph, which soon after
+appeared in the New-York Journal. “I blame the Bostonians for having
+given some room for the idle reports of their designing to oppose the
+landing of the troops, by the ridiculous puff and bombast (for which our
+eastern brethren have always been too famous) of warning every man to
+provide himself with a good firelock, ammunition, &c. under the
+disingenuous jesuitical pretence of the prospect of a French war, full
+as absurd and hypocritical as is the pretence of a military
+establishment in America for its protection and defence.”
+
+When the troops from Halifax were daily expected, the governor would
+have prevailed upon the council to have provided quarters for them in
+Boston, but they refused; and in answer to what he advanced, said, “the
+troops are by act of parliament, to be quartered no where else but in
+the barracks, until they are full: there are barracks enough at the
+castle to hold both the regiments; and it is therefore against the act
+to bring any of them into town.” However, the orders of general _Gage_
+to lieutenant-colonel _Dalrymple_ were positive to land one of them at
+Boston. But in the interim, captain Montresor, the engineer arrived,
+with letters of a subsequent date, from general Gage, for the governor
+and the colonel, wherein the general mentioned, that it being reported
+and believed from a number of private letters and the publications, that
+the people in and about Boston had revolted, he had therefore sent the
+captain to assist the forces, and enable them to recover and maintain
+the castle, and such other posts as they could secure. Upon this the
+colonel altered his plan, and concluded to land both regiments at Boston
+without loss of time. The fleet therefore was immediately put into
+motion, and the next morning commanded the whole town.—Every thing being
+fully prepared, near upon fourteen[99] ships of war lying with their
+broadsides to the town, having springs on their cables, and their guns
+ready for firing instantly upon the place, in case of the least
+opposition; about one o’clock at noon, October the first, the troops
+began landing, under cover of the ships cannon, without molestation; and
+having effected it, marched into the common, with muskets charged,
+bayonets fixed, drums beating, fifes playing, &c. making with the train
+of artillery, upward of 700 men. In the evening, the select men were
+required to quarter the two regiments in town, but absolutely refused.
+One of the regiments, however, being without their camp equipage, was
+humanely permitted to enter Faneuil-hall and its chambers, about nine
+o’clock at night, that so the men might enjoy a temporary shelter. The
+next being Lord’s day, the town or state-house was opened in the
+evening, by order of the governor, for the reception of the troops, who
+took possession of all the chambers, except the one appropriated for the
+meeting of the council. He certainly stretched his authority in several
+points; but particularly in thus acting. This step was an insult not
+only to the town, as it was a great annoyance to the gentlemen and
+merchants, who had been accustomed to make the lower floor their
+exchange, but to the whole colony, as the representatives chamber was
+now possessed by the soldiery. After the quarters of the troops were
+settled, the main-guard was posted directly opposite to, and not twelve
+yards from the state-house with two field pieces pointed to it. It was
+with no small indignation that the people beheld the representatives
+chamber, court-house, and Faneuil-hall—seats of freedom and
+justice—occupied by troops, and guards placed at the doors, and the
+council passing through the guards in going to their own chamber. They
+resented also the common’s being covered with tents, and alive with
+soldiers; their marchings and counter-marchings to relieve the guards;
+the town’s being a perfect garrison, and the inhabitants being
+challenged by the sentinels, as they passed and repassed. Persons
+devoutly inclined, complained much of being disturbed at public worship
+on the sabbaths, with drums beating, and fifes playing, to which they
+had never been accustomed in the Massachusetts. Quarters being obtained
+for the troops, the council were required to provide barrack provisions
+for them, agreeable to act of parliament; but resolutely declined going
+into any measure which might be construed into a submission to the said
+act. The opposition of the council to the quartering of, and providing
+for the troops, was so encouraged and strengthened by Mr. _James
+Bowdoin_, who was one of them, that Mr. _Hutchinson_, in his letter of
+November 6, ascribed the whole to his management. It was thought that
+the peaceable landing of the troops was not what some of the ministry
+either expected or desired; and that they were in hopes, that the folly
+and rage of the town and colony would have led them into an hostile
+opposition, and thereby have afforded an opportunity for giving them
+some naval and military correction. Under this apprehension, the
+gentleman who delivered the first dispatches from governor Bernard,
+containing the account of the troops having landed, &c. narrowly watched
+the countenance and conduct of the person who read them, and was
+confirmed in such opinion. But had he not possessed that opinion, it
+might not have been excited by what he observed. The sentiments of the
+military differed so extremely from those of the Bostonians, who were
+unjustly viewed as rebelliously inclined, that it was not to be wondered
+at that they were insulted and abused, and that quarrels should ensue,
+tho’ they did not proceed soon to a dangerous height. Undoubtedly the
+inhabitants could not be continually blameless; there would necessarily
+be some rash and imprudent persons among such a multitude; but the
+greatest rashness and imprudence lay in the sending of troops on a
+service which could have been effectually and better executed by a naval
+force properly stationed and employed. Ships of war might have possessed
+the harbour till the commissioners could have executed their office with
+safety.
+
+The committee of merchants in London paid a due attention to the
+memorial sent them by the merchants and traders of Philadelphia, and
+took pains to obtain relief from the grievances therein complained of,
+though without effect. The department to which they applied, afforded
+little hopes of redress in a way that might put an end to the
+differences that had arisen between Great-Britain and her American
+colonies. The act imposing duties on glass, paper, &c. was acknowledged
+to be inexpedient; but it was added, “Such has been the unjustifiable
+conduct of some in America, that the present juncture is not a proper
+season for a repeal.” Administration was firmly resolved to oppose it
+with their utmost strength, while it should be insisted on by threats on
+the part of the colonists, for in that light they consider the steps
+which had been taken by them to obtain redress It was said, “If a proper
+disposition appears in the colonies, and their merchants, in a
+succeeding session, shall think proper to petition parliament on the
+principle of expediency only, there is every reason to believe that no
+part of administration will object to the repeal.” But the minister did
+not declare what was the proper disposition he expected. No sooner were
+the Philadelphians apprised, by the receipt of this information, that no
+hope remained of a repeal in that session, than they unanimously entered
+into the very agreement, which some months before, when proposed to
+them, they had declined; and it was their opinion, that as the agreement
+had been formed on mature deliberation, the people of the province would
+firmly adhere to it. Of this they gave notice to the committee of
+merchants in London, by letter of April 8, 1769. In that letter,
+remarking upon the information they had received, they wrote—“It would
+become persons in power to consider, whether even the unjustifiable
+behavior of those who think themselves aggrieved, will justify a
+perseverance in a matter confessed to be wrong. Certain it is, that the
+wisdom of government is better manifested, its honor and authority
+better maintained and supported, by correcting the errors it may have
+committed, than by persisting in them, and thereby risking the loss of
+the subjects affections. We are apprehensive that persons in power are
+greatly abused, and that the people of America have been grossly
+misrepresented, otherwise the steps which they have taken to obtain
+redress, could never be looked upon as threats. Threats they never
+intended; but as all the American colonies were equally affected, it was
+thought that their joint petitions would have more weight; and for this
+end the several assemblies communicated their sentiments to each other.
+This step, to the inexpressible surprise of all America, is represented
+as “a flagitious attempt, a measure of a most dangerous and factious
+tendency, &c. The dissolution of assemblies that followed, and the
+measures pursued to enforce the acts in America, awakened the fears, and
+exasperated the minds of the people to a very great degree. They
+therefore determined not only to defeat the intent of the acts, by
+refraining from the use of those articles on which duties were laid, but
+to put a stop to the importation of goods from Great-Britain. This is
+the only threat we know of; and if this is sufficient to engage the
+ministry to oppose a repeal of the acts, we apprehend the ministry must,
+by a change of measures, endeavour to regain the affections of the
+people before they can be induced to alter their determinations.”
+
+“The Americans consider themselves as British subjects, entitled to all
+the rights and privileges of freemen. They think there can be no liberty
+without a security of property; and that there can be no property, if
+any can, without their consent, deprive them of the hard-earned fruits
+of their labour. They know that they have no choice in the election of
+the members of parliament; and from their situation never can have any.
+Every act of parliament therefore, that is made for raising a revenue in
+America, is in their opinion, depriving them of their property without
+their consent, and consequently is an invasion of their liberty.”
+
+“If then the acts cannot be repealed while the ministry objects, and if
+to remove the objections the Americans must give up their sentiments, we
+must candidly confess we have little hopes of a repeal ever taking
+place; much less it is to be expected, that the merchants will presume
+to petition parliament on the principle of inexpediency only, when every
+assembly on the continent are applying for a repeal on the principle of
+_right_.”
+
+“Happy had it been for both countries if the idea of raising taxes in
+America had never been started; however, if the acts complained of are
+repealed, and no other of the like nature are attempted hereafter the
+present unhappy jealousies will, we believe, quickly subside, and the
+people of both countries in a short time, return to their usual good
+humor, confidence and affection.”
+
+If ministry thought that the resolves of the house of lords, the
+preceding December, would have put a stop to non-importation agreements
+and the spirited exertions of the colonists, they soon found themselves
+much mistaken. It can scarce be imagined, but that some of the
+Philadelphia gentlemen had received the account of such resolves; for
+the above letter was in answer to London ones of January 4th and 26th,
+and yet they proceeded as has been related.
+
+The resolve censured the votes, resolutions and proceedings of the house
+of representatives of _Massachusetts_ of January and February; as also
+the declarations, resolutions and proceedings in the town of _Boston_.
+They pronounced the election of deputies to sit in convention, and the
+meeting of such convention, daring insults offered to his majesty’s
+authority, and audacious usurpations of the powers of government. The
+lords then ordered an humble address to be presented to his majesty, in
+which they expressed their satisfaction in the measure his majesty had
+pursued; gave him the strongest assurances, that they would effuctually
+support him in such further ones as might be found necessary to maintain
+the civil magistrates, in a due execution of the laws, within the
+Massachusetts Bay; and beseeched him to direct the governor to take the
+most effectual methods for procuring the fullest information, touching
+all treasons committed within that government since the 30th of
+December, 1767, and to transmit the same, with the names of the persons
+most active in the commission of such offences; in order that his
+majesty might issue a special commission for hearing and determining the
+said offences, within the realm, pursuant to the statute of the 35th
+year of _Henry_ VIII.
+
+The resolutions and address were sent down to the house of commons for
+their concurrence. Colonel _Barre_ opposed them; and directing himself
+to the ministry, said, “Away with these partial resentful trifles,
+calculated to irritate, not to quell or appease, inadequate to their
+purpose, unworthy of us! Why will you endeavor to deceive yourselves and
+us? You know that it is not this place only that disputes your right,
+but every part. They tell you, that you have no right from one end of
+the continent to the other. My sentiments of this matter you well know.
+Consider well what you are doing. Act openly and honestly. Tell them you
+will tax them, and that they must submit. Do not adopt this little,
+insidious, futile plan. They will despise you for it.” However on the
+ninth of February, they were agreed to and returned with some
+amendments; and the address was ordered to be presented to both houses.
+The _Massachusetts_, with becoming firmness, constantly asserted their
+rights, which drew down upon them ministerial vengeance. They had no
+general assembly when the resolves and address reached America, the last
+having been dissolved for refusing to comply with the mandate to
+rescind, and the time appointed by charter for calling another not being
+arrived. But the _Virginia_ house of burgesses entered upon the subject.
+They met on the eighth of May, and on the sixteenth took into serious
+consideration the state of the colony, being alarmed at the distress in
+which all America was likely to be involved. They came to several
+necessary resolutions, copies of which they gave their speaker, with
+particular directions to transmit them without delay to the speakers of
+the several houses of assembly on the continent; whose concurrence in
+the like was requested.
+
+The resolves express, “That the sole right of imposing taxes on the
+inhabitants of the colony, is now, and ever hath been legally and
+constitutionally vested in the house of burgesses, with consent of the
+council, and of the king, or his governor for the time being—That it is
+the privilege of the inhabitants to petition their sovereign for redress
+of grievances, and that it is lawful to procure the concurrence of his
+majesty’s other colonies in dutiful addresses, praying the royal
+interposition in favor of the violated rights of America—That all trials
+for treason, misprison of treason, or for any felony or crime
+whatsoever, committed by any person residing in said colony, ought to be
+in and before his majesty’s courts within said colony; and that the
+seizing any person residing in the colony, suspected of any crime
+whatsoever, committed therein and sending such person to places beyond
+the sea to be tried, is highly derogatory of the rights of British
+subjects, as thereby the inestimable privilege of being tried by a jury
+from the vicinage, as well as the liberty of producing witnesses on such
+trial, will be taken away from the party accused.” These resolutions
+were followed by a humble address to his majesty, beseaching his royal
+interposition to quiet the minds of his royal subjects in the colony,
+and to avert those dangers and miseries which will ensue from seizing
+and carrying beyond sea the inhabitants of America, to be tried in any
+other manner than by the ancient and long established mode of
+proceeding.
+
+[May 17.] The next day Lord _Bottetourt_ sent for them, and said, “Mr.
+speaker, and gentlemen of the house of burgesses, I have heard of your
+resolves, and augur ill of their effects. You have made it my duty to
+dissolve you, and you are dissolved accordingly.” The gentlemen who
+composed the house, being, reduced by the dissolution to private
+persons, repaired immediately to another place, that so they might
+consider what measures were proper to be taken, and chose the late
+speaker _Peyton Randolph_, esq. moderator.
+
+[18.] They entered into an association unanimously [which they
+subscribed and recommended to all merchants, gentlemen, traders and
+others] against importing any goods taxed, and many other articles;
+against wines, against importing and purchasing negroes, &c.
+
+The next month the Maryland gentlemen and merchants entered into a
+non-importation agreement similar to the Virginian.
+
+The _South-Carolinians_ followed the example.
+
+The inhabitants of _Charlestown_ broke off all commerce with the _Rhode
+Islanders_ and _Georgians_, whom they charged with having acted a most
+singularly infamous part, from the beginning of the present glorious
+struggle for the preservation of American rights. This had its effect,
+and _Georgia_ came into the non-importation agreement September the
+nineteenth; _Providence_, October the tenth; but _Rhode-Island_ not till
+the thirtieth.
+
+[Oct.] The _North-Carolina_ assembly came to the like resolution with
+the _Virginia_ house of burgesses, for which governor _Tryon_ dissolved
+them. Upon that, the gentlemen who had composed it, repaired to the
+court-house, chose the late speaker moderator, and came to a resolution
+for an association against importing, _&c._ comformable to what had been
+done elsewhere. Thus the non-importation agreement became general, and
+was forwarded by the very means applied for its prevention. Meetings of
+the associators were regularly held. Committees were appointed to
+examine the cargoes of all vessels arriving from Britain; and regular
+votes and resolutions of censure were passed in those meetings, upon
+such as refused to concur in the associations, and their names published
+in the newspapers as enemies to their country. The decrees of those
+committees met with a respect and obedience denied to the constitutional
+authority of government. In some cases goods imported from Britain were
+locked up in warehouses, under the care of the committees, and in a few
+instances returned. _Portsmouth_, the only sea-port in _New-Hampshire_,
+never came into the non-importation agreement. Governor _Wentworth_ had
+address enough to prevent it, and keep all quiet. There are few private
+schools in that colony, and the bulk of the people are very illiterate.
+If a person can write a note of hand, read a chapter, and cypher to the
+rule of three, he passes for a man of learning. Men, whose capacities
+remain small for want of use and improvement, and who have little
+knowledge, are liable to be duped by those who possess superior rank and
+abilities. The associations were as general, and in common as well
+observed as could reasonably be expected, considering the disadvantages
+and losses they necessarily occasioned to many. But it is not to be
+thought, that there were no collusions; that all the goods belonging to
+the professing sons of liberty, which were stored, remained in the
+warehouses, without being conveyed out upon particular occasions, and to
+serve certain purposes; that all, who had given their names or honors
+not to import, did not privately order some of the prohibited articles
+to please themselve, families or neighbours; that when, some months
+afterward, the zeal of the daughters of liberty in several of the
+colonies, proscribed the drinking of tea, and rendered the disuse of it
+a universal fashion, all were so true to their engagements, as not to
+sip their green or bohea in secret, or under a new name; and that all
+who associated or agreed to the storing of their goods, did it
+voluntarily and without compulsion. The fear or appearance of a mob
+often produced a compliance in persons who would gladly have retained
+their goods till they could have turned the same into cash; and brought
+them to own, that they were willing that they should be stored, just as
+they would have been willing at sea to have thrown them overboard to
+escape personal shipwreck. The committees had the arts of persuasion;
+and in some places their most powerful arguments for reducing the
+obstinate were not known to be used by them.
+
+The importer is sent for, and desired to come into the agreement; he
+declines; he must sell; his livelihood depends upon it. Arguments are
+used for his complying, and he is urged, soothed and entreated; but it
+avails nothing. He is determined at all hazards to dispose of his goods
+as purchasers offer. Some of the mobility, or their leaders, are told,
+that the importer cannot be prevailed upon. In a day or two he finds
+himself surrounded; in danger of an assault; is terrified; inquires the
+reason; and upon learning it, hurries to the committee; begs their
+interposition; complies with what was before desired of him; hopes that
+they will restore him to the good graces of his fellow townsmen or
+citizens, and thanks them for their promised assistance, not in the
+least suspecting the depth of their contrivance. Every committee
+however, had not this prudent forecast, whereby to accomplish their
+designs without exposing their own characters.
+
+We have hitherto omitted recording the transactions of the
+_Massachusetts_ assembly in the persent year, the _Virginia_ house of
+burgesses demanding a prior attention, but now proceed to them.
+
+[May 31.] The general court being called together according to charter,
+a committee from the house of representatives remonstrated to his
+excellency, “That an armament by sea and land investing this metropolis
+(_Boston_) and a military guard with cannon pointed to the door of the
+state house where the assembly is held, are inconsistent with that
+dignity and freedom with which they have a right to deliberate, consult,
+and determine. They expect that your excellency will, as his majesty’s
+representative, give effectual orders for the removal of the above
+mentioned forces by sea and land out of this port, and the gates of this
+city during the session of the said assembly.” The governor returned for
+answer, “gentlemen, I have no authority over his majesty’s ships in this
+port, or his troops within this town.”
+
+[June 1.] He negatived eleven of the persons elected to form the
+council.
+
+[13.] The house in a message to him declared—“The use of the military
+power to enforce the execution of the laws, is, in the opinion of this
+house, inconsistent with the spitit of a free constitution, and the very
+nature of government. This military force is uncontroulable by any
+authority in the province: it is then a power without any check here,
+and therefore it is so far absolute. What privilege! what security then
+is left to this house!”
+
+It was not urged, whatever the case might admit; “The governor is the
+king’s _locum tenens_, and his office entire. The chief civil and
+military authority being by the British and our constitution
+inseparable, the king cannot serve them. An independent military tends
+to the utter overthrow of the civil power. The operations of the great
+seal, which is _clavis regni_, cannot be controlled by the privy seal,
+the king’s signet, sign manuel, or significations of his pleasure by his
+secretary; in other words, our charter cannot be infringed by any of
+these.”
+
+The house firmly declined doing business surrounded with an armed force,
+so that the governor the next day adjourned the court to Cambridge.
+
+[July 6.] His excellency sent a message to them, with the accounts of
+the expenditures already incurred by quartering his majesty’s troops,
+desiring funds to be provided for discharging the same, and required a
+provision for the further quartering the forces in Boston and
+Castle-Island, according to act of parliament.
+
+[7.] The house of assembly, as though they meant by it to despise the
+parliamentary resolves, no less than maintain their own privileges,
+passed a number of resolves, and among them the following:
+
+“That a general discontent on account of the revenue acts, an
+expectation of a sudden arrival of a military power to enfore said acts,
+an apprehension of the troops being quartered upon the inhabitants, the
+general court dissolved, the governor refusing to call a new one, and
+the people almost reduced to a state of despair, rendered it highly
+expedient and necessary for the people to convene by their committees;
+to associate, consult, and advise the best means to promote peace and
+good order; to present their united complaints to the throne, and
+jointly to pray for the royal interposition in favor of their violated
+rights. Nor can this procedure possibly be illegal, as they expressly
+disclaim all governmental acts:
+
+“That the establishment of a standing army in this colony, in time of
+peace, is an invasion of natural rights:
+
+“That a standing army is not known as a part of the British
+constitution:
+
+“That sending an armed force into the colony, under pretence of
+assisting the civil authority, is highly dangerous to the people,
+unprecedented and unconstitutional.”
+
+The last is the same with that of Virginia.
+
+[12.] The governor called upon them to answer, whether they would or
+would not make provision for the troops.
+
+[15.] The house, by message, after remarking upon the mutiny or
+billeting act, answered, “As we cannot consistently with our own honor
+or interest, much less with the duty we owe to our constituents, so we
+never shall make any provision of funds for the purposes in your several
+messages.” Upon that the governor prorogued them to the tenth of
+January, to meet at Boston.
+
+_South-Carolina_ assembly, no less than the _Massachusetts_, ventured to
+disobey the mutiny act, and adopted similar resolutions to those of
+_Virginia_. The _Maryland_ lower house entered partly into similar ones,
+but the last was omitted, and the first more strongly expressed. The
+_Delaware_ counties early followed the lead of _Virginia_, and adopted
+their last resolve _verbatim_; and toward the close of the year, the
+_New-York_ assembly concurred in their resolves with Virginia.
+
+The proposal of parliament for transporting persons from America in
+order to trial in _Great-Britain_, pursuant to the statute of _Henry_
+VIII. excited a general alarm through the continent. The procedure they
+recommended was not wholly without precedent. The case of Culpeper has
+been already related. Under queen Anne, in 1710, the ringleaders of an
+unnatural contention in _Antigua_, wherein the governor was murdered,
+were brought to Great-Britain, tried, and many of them convicted and
+executed upon this statute. Precedents, however, will never reconcile
+sensible men to practices which, though legal, are fraught with cruelty,
+and liable to the most horrid abuses. Beside, the statute was become
+obsolete.
+
+The _Virginia_ house of burgesses, in their address to his majesty,
+expressed themselves with propriety upon this subject—“When we consider,
+that by the established laws and constitution of this colony the most
+ample provision is made for apprehending and punishing all those who
+shall dare to engage in any treasonable practices against your majesty,
+or disturb the tranquility of government; we cannot, without horror,
+think of the unusual, and permit us, with all humility, to add
+unconstitutional and illegal mode recommended to your majesty, of
+seizing and carrying beyond the sea, the inhabitants of America
+suspected of any crime, and of trying such persons in any other manner
+than by the ancient and long established course of proceedings; for how
+truly deplorable must be the case of a wretched American, who having
+incurred the displeasure of any one in power, is dragged from his native
+home and his dearest domestic connections, thrown into a prison, not to
+wait his trial before a court, jury or judges, from a knowledge of whom
+he is encouraged to hope for a speedy justice, but to exchange his
+imprisonment in his own country for fetters among strangers. Conveyed to
+a distant land, where no friend, no relation will alleviate his
+distresses, or minister to his necessities, and where no witness can be
+found to testify his innocence; shunned by the reputable and honest, and
+consigned to the society and converse of the wretched and abandoned, he
+can only pray, that he may soon end his misery with his life.”
+
+We have been reviewing the noble and animated proceedings of the
+_Virgians_ and others in behalf of liberty; and cannot but regret that
+the existence of slavery and its effects among them, should administer
+the least occasion for any one’s writing concerning them. “The last
+resolves of the Virginia burgesses deserve a very hard name. It is
+indeed laughable, to see a few dissipated bashaws, tyrants over a parcel
+of wretched negro slaves, meet together and give themselves airs against
+Great-Britain upon the subject of liberty—this applies to all the
+southern colonies. The spirit of independence in _New-England_, is more
+consistent and characteristic of the people; but _Virginia_, and the
+_Carolinas_ are but _petit maitres_ in the business.”[100]
+
+It is time to cross the Atlantic, and advert to what was doing in
+_Britain_. An attempt in the house of commons, to bring on a repeal of
+the obnoxious act before the session closed, proved ineffectual. It was
+objected from every quarter, that it was not a proper time. Lord
+_North_’s language upon the occasion was, “However prudence or policy
+may hereafter induce us to repeal the late paper and glass act, I hope
+we shall never think of it _till we see_ AMERICA _prostrate at our
+feet_.” When the session was over, the ministry, with a view, it might
+be, of soothing the Americans into a better temper, managing their
+respective assemblies, and bringing them to retract their resolutions,
+and open the trade as before, gave out, that at the next session the
+American grievances should be redressed; and lord _Hillsborough_ wrote a
+circular letter to every colony [May 13.] mentioning “their intention to
+propose, in the next session of parliament, taking off the duties upon
+glass, paper and colours, upon consideration of such duties having been
+laid contrary to the true principles of commerce; and assuring each,
+that his majesty’s ministers, “at no time entertained a design to
+propose to parliament to lay any further taxes on America, for the
+purpose of raising a revenue.” Lord _Botetourt_ following the directions
+he had received, so to explain measures as might re-establish mutual
+confidence and affection between Great-Britain and her colonies, made
+the matter known to the _Virginia_ house of burgesses in a speech, and
+then declared, “It is my firm opinion that the plan which I have stated
+to you will certainly take place, and that it will never be departed
+from. I shall exert every power with which I am or ever may be legally
+invested, in order to obtain and maintain, for the continent of America,
+that satisfaction which I have been authorised to promise this day, by
+the confidential servants of our gracious sovereign, who, to my certain,
+knowledge, rates his honor so high, that he would rather part with his
+crown, than preserve it by deceit.” The house, in their address to him,
+expressed their hope and confidence in a manner that implied fear and
+distrust; but willing to make the best improvement of what his lordship
+said, closed with—“We esteem your lordship’s information, not only as
+warranted, but even sanctified by the royal word.” The conduct of
+ministry contained the idea of a public renunciation of all further
+future taxation of America for a revenue; and the house appeared to view
+it in that light.
+
+But the circular letter was far from satisfying the American sons of
+liberty in general. The evident exception of the duty on tea, and the
+professed design of repealing upon commercial principles, excited their
+apprehensions, and confirmed them in the opinion, that the ground of
+present grievances was not to be abandoned, but to be reserved for a
+future opportunity of making fresh essays for the imposition of internal
+taxes. The merchants and traders, therefore, of _Boston_, soon after the
+knowledge of it, called a meeting, and unanimously voted, that the
+taking off the duties on the articles of glass, paper, and colours,
+would by no means relieve the trade from the difficulties it was under.
+They then confirmed their former agreement, to send for no goods
+contrary thereto, unless the revenue acts were repealed.
+
+Though the testimony of the Pennsylvania assembly against the resolves
+of parliament, and in favor of the Virginia resolves, the repeal of all
+the revenue acts, and a redress of all grievances, was wanting; yet the
+Philadelphia committee of merchants, whose character and influence in
+the present business weighed more than that of the assembly, failed not
+to express their minds fully to the committee in London, long after the
+circulatory letter was a matter of notoriety. They thus wrote [November
+25.] “Though we are not favored with an answer to our letter of the
+eighth of April last, yet as the liberty of America is at stake, and the
+minds of the people here are much agitated, and as the continuation of
+the unhappy dispute between the parliament and the colonies must not
+only affect your and our interest, but the general interest and
+happiness of both countries, we think it our duty to apply to you again,
+and earnestly request you would use your best endeavors with those in
+the administration, to restore tranquility, and re-establish the
+colonies in the enjoyment of their ancient rights and privileges. We are
+very sensible that the prosperity of the colonies depends upon their
+union and connection with Great-Britain. In this sentiment all the
+Amecans concur, yet they cannot bring themselves to think, that for this
+reason they ought to be divested of liberty and property. Yet this must
+be the case, if the parliament can make laws to bind the colonies in all
+cases whatever—can levy taxes upon them without their consent, dispose
+of the revenues thus raised without their controul, multiply officers at
+pleasure, and assign them fees to be paid without, nay, contrary to and
+in direct violation of acts of assembly regularly passed by the colonies
+and approved by the crown—can enlarge the power of admiralty courts,
+divert the usual channels of justice, deprive the colonists of trials by
+a jury of their countrymen, in short, break down the barriers which
+their forefathers have erected against arbitrary power, and enforce
+their edicts by fleets and armies. To such a system of government the
+Americans cannot tamely submit; not from an impatience of subordination,
+a spirit of independence, or want of loyalty to their king; for in a
+quiet submission to just government, in zeal, affection, and attachment
+to their king, the people of the colonies dare to vie with any of the
+best of their fellows-subjects; but from an innate love of liberty and
+the British constitution.
+
+“In our last we intimated our fears that the ministry were greatly
+abused, and the people of America grossly misrepresented, by some who
+did not wish well either to Great-Britain or the colonies. The letters
+of one of our American governors (Bernard) and the memorials of a board
+lately erected among us, not to mention other documents laid before the
+public, evince that our fears were but too well grounded. From these it
+is apparent, that every sly art has been used to incense the ministry
+against the colonies; every argument that malice could invent has been
+urged to induce them to overturn the ancient foundations of liberty.
+Nay, to compass their base ends, they have declared in express terms,
+and taken uncommon pains to make the ministry believe, that “there has
+been a long concerted and extensive plan of resistance to the authority
+of Great-Britain in all the provinces, and that a seizure made at Boston
+had hastened the people there to the commission of actual violence
+sooner than was intended.
+
+“In justice to the province where we reside, and indeed to all America,
+we beg leave to assure you, that such representations are without any
+just foundation, and that nothing can be a greater deviation from truth.
+Though at the same time we confess, that the ends accomplished by these
+and such like infamous slanders and vile arts, have given a general
+alarm, and caused a universal uneasiness in the minds of the Americans.
+They now see a rod of power held over their heads; they begin to feel
+the severities of a court, that by its late enlarged jurisdiction is
+empowered to break in upon the proceedings of the common law courts; and
+they have anxious fears for the existence of their assemblies, which
+they consider as their last and only bulwark against arbitrary power.
+For if, say they, laws can be made, money levied, government supported,
+and justice administered, without the intervention of assemblies, of
+what use can they be? They are no essential member of the constitution.
+And being useless and unessential, is there not reason to fear they will
+quickly become disagreeable and then be wholly laid aside? And when that
+happens, what security have we for freedom, or what remains for the
+colonists, but the most abject slavery?
+
+“These are not the reasonings of politicians, but the sentiments and
+language of the people in general. For with great truth we may say, in
+no country is the love of liberty more deeply rooted, or the knowledge
+of the rights inherent to freemen more generally diffused, and the
+principles of freedom and government better understood than among the
+British American colonies.
+
+“For this reason we think ourselves obliged to inform you, that though
+the merchants have confined their agreements to the repeal of the act
+laying a duty on tea, paper, glass, &c. yet nothing less than a repeal
+of all the revenue acts, and putting things on the same footing they
+were before the late innovations, can or will satisfy the minds of the
+people. The fleets and armies may overawe our towns; admiralty courts
+and boards of commissioners, with their swarms of underlings, may by a
+rigorous execution of severe unconstitutional acts, ruin our commerce,
+and render America of little use to the people of Britain; but while
+every farmer is a freeholder, the spirit of liberty will prevail, and
+every attempt to divest them of the privileges of freemen, must be
+attended with consequences injurious to the colonies and the mother
+country.
+
+“In a matter of so great importance you will excuse this freedom. We
+consider the merchants here and in England, as the links of the chain
+that binds both countries together. They are deeply concerned in
+preserving the union and connection.—Whatever tends to alienate the
+affections of the colonists, or to make them averse to the customs,
+fashions, and manufactures of Britain, hurts their interest. While some,
+therefore, from ambitious views and sinister motives, are laboring to
+widen the breach, we whose private interest is happily connected with
+the union, or which is the same, with the peace and prosperity of both
+countries, may be allowed to plead for an end to these unhappy disputes;
+and that by a repeal of the offensive acts, the cause of jealousy and
+uneasiness may be removed, tranquility restored, harmony and mutual
+affection re-established, and trade return to its usual channel.”
+
+The names of the committee on the back of the draft from which the above
+has been copied, were, _Alexander Huston_, _John Rhea_, _John Cox_,
+_John Gibson_, _Joseph Swift_, _James Mease_, _J. M. Nesbit_, _William
+West_, _Robert Morris_, _Charles Thomson_, _Daniel Benezet_, _William
+Fisher_, _George Roberts_, _Samuel Howell_, and _Thomas Mifflin_.
+
+The stationing of troops in _Boston_ might afford greater personal
+security to the commissioners than what they could otherwise have
+enjoyed, and might induce them or their underlings to exceed the bounds
+of their commission, or of prudence, but could not prevent smuggling, or
+protect informers from insult and abuse. Even skippers, bound to
+different parts of the colony, had their vessels stopt and libelled, for
+having uncleared articles of trifling consequence on board. Persons who
+ventured to lodge informations, when discovered, were often subject to a
+treatment which gave them a ridiculous appearance, and laid them under a
+difficulty to clear themselves of the dress imposed upon them. They were
+stripped, well tarred, and then covered with feathers. The punishment
+took so with the lower class of people, that afterward it was not
+confined to informers, but was also applied by them to others who
+offended their dread majesty. There was a degree of intemperance and
+indiscreetness on the part of the commissioners and custom-house
+officers, which tended to irritate; whereas the utmost lenity and
+forbearance were requisite in order to general tranquility. Mr. _Eliot_,
+at _New-York_, where smuggling was as prevalent as at Boston, found it
+necessary to wink at many irregularities, that he might prevent
+disturbances and ill humor among the body of merchants. The
+commissioners expressed their dissatisfaction, and wanted him to alter
+his line of conduct: he stated the case to a friend at home, and by his
+influence was secured from such like directions in future. They
+transmitted to Britain such representations of Mr. _Otis_, jun. as
+provoked him to insert a publication in the Boston gazette, which
+brought on an affray at the coffee-house between him and Mr. _Robinson_,
+one of the commissioners, from the latter’s attempting to pull the other
+by the nose, because of some expressions in the said publication. Mr.
+Robinson being in danger of coming off with the worst, several of the
+company fell upon Mr. Otis; some of whom held him, while others struck
+him with canes or different weapons. A friend passing along, observed
+what was doing, pressed in and rescued Mr. Otis, though he himself
+suffered considerably from the assailants. The noise soon drew
+multitudes about the house, when Mr. Robinson and his associates
+prudently retreated by means of a backdoor.[101] This procedure of the
+revenue officers (for no military one was present) opened a large field
+of altercation and multiplied quarrels, which were before too frequent
+between the king’s officers and the leaders of opposition.
+
+Governor _Bernard_ could carry nothing in the govermental way through
+the presence of the troops, but was continually losing ground, and
+growing more and more obnoxious to the inhabitants; so that he was
+abused in scurrilous publications, for which the Boston gazette was
+notorious. They were craftily calculated for the meridian where they
+first appeared, and suited the too levelling disposition of the
+_Bay-men_; after the politicians had encouraged a spirit of
+licentiousness, in order to weaken the force of government, and
+counteract the designs carrying on against their liberties: but their
+want of decency offended many of the sons of liberty in the other
+colonies. Heavy threats were also thrown out against the governors
+personal safety. Of these however he was regardless; and being asked by
+a friend, how he could venture to walk about alone at his country seat,
+only five miles from the center of Boston, and whether he was not
+afraid, he answered, “No, they are not a blood-thirsty people.”
+
+At length it was thought proper to recal him, as said, to lay before his
+majesty the true state of the province: this he signified to the
+assembly in the month of June. Before they were prorogued they embraced
+the occasion for drawing up a petition to his majesty in which, after
+complaints of him, they entreated that he might be for ever removed from
+the goverment of the province. When his letters, written home in
+confidence, came to be exposed to public view, it would have argued
+great weakness to have continued him, unless it was designed to adopt
+his plans, and support him by force at all adventures. Governor Bernard
+was too open, and had too little command of his temper; and suffered his
+resentment to get the better of what ought to have been his political
+judgment. Every governor should divest himself of resentment, especially
+in his public capacity, as his own happiness, and that of the governed
+require it.
+
+Men of spirit may be drawn, when they will not be forced—Sir Francis,
+instead of aiming his censures at individuals, directed them against
+whole bodies. Thus he charged the council with servility to the
+populace, the pleasing of whom, he said, was the rule of their conduct,
+and also both houses of the general assembly expressly, in his speeches,
+with oppugnation against the royal authority, declaring that they had
+left gentlemen out of the council, only for their fidelity to the crown.
+Such charges strengthened the hands of those whom he most opposed, by
+touching the honor of the whole. Had they been true, they should have
+been suppressed or mentioned only in private; but though the substance
+of them even was true, when applied to individuals, it might be
+otherwise when applied to the body, the majority of whom might act upon
+different principles. Political leaders frequently throw out motives, by
+which to catch and conduct the well-intentioned, differing from those by
+which they themselves are actuated. Sir Francis did not possess those
+mollifying arts which the ferment of the times required; and was more
+ready to aggravate disorders than to apologize for them. It was common
+for him in his official letters, to stile the opposition the faction,
+even while he owned that it comprehended the majority of the assembly. A
+parental governor would have thrown in many hints to have lessened the
+displeasure of persons in power, on account of offences committed at
+three thousand miles distance, under an enthusiastic attachment to the
+cause of liberty, at a period when divers outrages were perpetrated at
+home, by mobs in various parts of the kingdom. He evinced too great an
+inclination to make the worst of every thing; and at times hearkened to
+and transmitted the strangest rumours. He was a principal instrument in
+bringing the troops to Boston. It was a favorite measure with him and
+the lieutenant governor long before it was executed. While he professed
+himself a friend to the province, he was endeavoring to undermine its
+constitution, and to obtain an essential alteration in the charter,
+through an appointment of the council by the king, instead of its
+continuing in the election of the general court, where the
+representatives of the people necessarily carried it, whenever they
+united.
+
+Toward the end of June he had the fairest opportunity of getting the
+troops removed from the Massachusetts, but opposed the measure. General
+Gage desired general Mackay to consult with him concerning the necessity
+of continuing the troops at Boston, and to procure his opinion in
+writing, whether his majesty’s service required that troops should
+remain there any longer, and what number, whether one or two regiments.
+It is impossible to express his surprise at the proposition. The
+knowledge of it, so far as it reached, occasioned a consternation among
+the civil officers of government, its friends, and the importers of
+goods from Great-Britain. Gage, in a letter, requested his opinion, and
+assured him he should not publish it, or make it known on this side the
+Atlantic. He immediately answered, that he had no hesitation to declare
+his opinion that it would be detrimental to his majesty’s service to
+remove any of the two regiments remaining; and that it would be quite
+ruinous to the cause of the crown to draw all the troops out of Boston;
+but that he was inclined to think, that a regiment in town, and another
+at the castle, might be sufficient. He had time enough in which to have
+ripened a plan with the court for the removal of the troops, to the joy
+of the country, and with safety to the civil officers and supporters of
+government. But he too early for his own peace and the happiness of his
+government, deviates from the line of conduct marked out for him by lord
+Halifax immediately after his appointment, when it was recommended to
+him to see and converse with governor Pownal, of whom his lordship wrote
+in the same letter, “It is impossible to pursue a better plan of
+government than what he directed himself by.” However, his conduct was
+so agreeable to the ministry, that a title was secured him. He was
+created a baronet, March the twentieth, 1769; and his majesty took upon
+himself the whole expence of passing the patent, which added greatly to
+the honor done him, as it was a favor seldom or ever before granted. Sir
+Francis, during his eleven years residence in America, made very little
+advance in his estate. The Boston sons of liberty had great advantages
+against him, from the early intelligence procured by the supposed author
+of Junius Americanus, and forwarded for safety under an unsuspected
+coarse paper cover, to Mr. Thomas Bromfield, glover, at Boston. Sir
+Francis was astonished to find that the contents of his letters from
+ministry were known by them as soon as by himself. When he embarked from
+the castle on board the Rippon man of war, for Great-Britain, August the
+first, few lamented his departure. Even his friend, the lieutenant
+governor, Mr. Hutchinson, regretted not his recal; by it he gained an
+opening for succeeding to the chair, to which he had been long looking,
+and was in hopes of being advanced.
+
+Boston and New-York entered into the non-importation agreement so early
+as August the preceding year; before the present was out they began to
+be embarrassed, and numbers grew weary of their engagement. Advantage
+was taken of these circumstances. The British officers, either of their
+own thought, or through hints from home, offered merchants the liberty
+of having their goods directed to them, as though intended for the army;
+and many were got in under that cover, especially at New-York. Several
+persons imported into Boston and sold freely, without its being
+particularly noticed, while a few only were called to an account and
+exposed in the newspapers. This occasioned an alarm; and the people
+assembled at Faneuil-hall [Jan. 23, 1770.] in consequence of a
+notification, upon the business of preventing the non-importation
+agreement’s being rendered abortive.
+
+Mr. _Theophilus Lillie_, observing the gross partiality which prevailed
+in suffering some to sell, while a few others were proscribed;
+determined upon selling his goods also. To point him out as inimical to
+the agreement, and a person whose shop was to be shunned, a piece of
+pageantry was placed before the door. Mr. _Richardson_, attempting to
+remove it, was driven into his house by a number of boys, and there
+attacked by stones through the windows. Provoked, rather than endangered
+by the assault, he fired and killed _Christopher Snider_ [Feb. 22.] a
+lad of eleven years old, who was recorded in the public prints as the
+first martyr to the noble cause of liberty. The boy was buried with the
+greatest respect imaginable, according to the custom of the country; and
+such was the number of people following the corpse, that the foot
+procession extended a full quarter of a mile. The event tended rather to
+promote than injure the non-importation agreement. Boys, small and
+great, and undoubtedly men, had been and were encouraged, and well paid
+by certain leaders, to insult and intimidate those who had avowedly
+counteracted the combination, and still persevered. The lieutenant
+governor in April, attempted prevailing upon a merchant of the first
+estate and character, to promote an association in opposition to the
+non-importation agreement, but to no purpose; and received for answer,
+“Until parliament makes provision for the punishment of the
+confederacies, all will be ineffectual, and the associates will be
+exposed to popular rage.” Another meeting was called to determine
+whether the goods already arrived and those expected, should be sent
+back to Britain. A gentleman having received a letter from a member of
+parliament, in which it was said, that shipping back £.10,000 of goods
+will do more than storing £.100,000 and the same being communicated, the
+scale, when upon a balance, was turned, and all the importers belonging
+to the town submitted to send their goods back; and in May many were
+re-shipped on board captain Scott. The leaders gave out that it was done
+voluntarily; and yet the major part of the merchants wished to see the
+trade free from restraint; but having in the height of their zeal,
+called in the populace as their servants, to intimidate those who
+refused to join in the combination, they were now forced to submit to
+them as their masters, under the influence of a few of the merchants,
+who still adhered to their first plan. Several of the last importers
+begged with tears, that they might be allowed to house their goods, but
+it was not granted. One who had been pretty sturdy, had a committee of
+tradesmen sent him, with an axe-man, a carpenter, at their head, who
+told him that there were a 1000 men waiting for his answer, and if he
+did not comply, there was no saying what would be the consequences. The
+strength of the argument prevailed; and a day or two after the paper
+published that he complied voluntarily. The Bostonians moreover resolved
+to break off all trade with the Newport people, because of their
+duplicity, and breaking through the non-importation agreement. The next
+month Hartford followed the example of Boston. But about the same time
+the New-Yorkers, by dexterous management, were brought to agree to
+import—“every thing except such articles as are, or may hereafter be,
+subject to duty for the purpose of raising a revenue in America.”
+Government gained a party in the committee of merchants, who took
+advantage of the charges brought against Boston of importing large
+quantities of goods; and Mr. Hancock was complained of for suffering
+them to be brought in his vessels. By these means they prepared the
+minds of the people for the execution of the plan they had concerted.
+They did not call a meeting of the citizens, in which the vote of the
+populace, procured by the arts of individuals, might prevail; but went
+through the several wards, and took the sense of the principal
+inhabitants separately, when it appeared that the majority were for
+importing. Upon the receipt of letters from Philadelphia and Boston, the
+sense of the inhabitants was again taken, and turned out as before. They
+were severely censured by the Philadelphians for their defection, and by
+others also. The letter of the committee to the merchants at Boston,
+informing them what agreement they had adopted, was contemptuously torn
+to pieces. When those Yorkers who were in the interest of government,
+began to concert their plan, they rested on assurances of what would be
+done in parliament, and knew not, for certain, that the duties on glass,
+paper and colours had been taken off; but the news of the obnoxious act
+being so far repealed, reached the continent before they had fully
+perfected the business, on the 10th of July.[102]
+
+The New-Yorkers were in general faithful, while their non-importation
+agreement lasted; more so, it was thought, than the Bostonians. These
+suffered much in their reputation among the sons of liberty at New-York
+and Philadelphia, for the large quantities of goods found by some of the
+newspaper publications, to have been imported into Boston. Some of the
+inhabitants were desirous of rolling away much of the reproach, by
+pointing out that, a considerable part of the goods charged to the score
+of Boston, belonged to Salem, Marblehead, and other ports; but when the
+non-importation agreements were ended, it was omitted, and thus they
+continued to lie under greater disgrace than really belonged to them.
+While the New-York plan was carrying on, a trial was made by about a
+dozen persons, to frighten the gentlemen who were inclined to import,
+from so doing, but it failed, the populace had been secured.
+
+[April 12.] The king gave his assent to the act for repealing the duties
+on glass, paper, and colours. The tea duty was professedly continued as
+a pepper corn rent, for the point of honor, and as a badge of
+sovereignty over the colonies. The ministry might also mean to use it in
+some future period, for deeper purposes than could be then fathomed.
+They intended in the beginning of the session to bring in a bill against
+American associations; but the violence of party was such, that it was
+thought the times would not admit of it. The strong opposition made to
+ministerial measures at home, was certainly helpful to the cause of the
+colonies, and encouraged them to go those lengths which they would
+otherwise have scarce ventured upon. This, however, was not to be
+charged to the anti-ministerialists, as an evil for which they were
+answerable. Let ministers attempt at any time to make unjustifiable
+inroads upon the liberties of British subjects, their opponents are
+bound in duty, as the guardians of the public, to use all warrantable
+efforts to disconcert them and the mischief which follows is to be
+placed to the account of those who render the opposition a necessary
+measure.
+
+The news of a partial repeal did not satisfy the colonists. But they
+attempted in vain to keep up the non-importation agreement after the
+defection of New-York. The Boston merchants at length, in a meeting held
+at the coffee-house in October, unanimously voted to alter it, and adopt
+the same plan of importing with that of the New-Yorkers. It appeared to
+be the sense of the one and the other, and also of the Philadelphians,
+that no tea should be imported; and that if any was brought into the
+several ports, it should be smuggled to avoid paying the duty. The
+Virginia house of burgesses, in a petition to his majesty, expressed
+their exceeding great concern and deep affliction upon finding, that the
+several acts imposing duties for the purpose of raising a revenue in
+America, were continued; and said, “A partial suspension of duties, and
+these such only as were imposed upon British manufactures, cannot remove
+the too well grounded fears and apprehensions of your majesty’s
+subjects, whilst impositions are continued on the same articles of
+foreign fabric, and entirely retained upon tea, for the avowed purpose
+of establishing a precedent against us.” The present year was marked by
+a different scene of blood than what offered in February, which could
+not be introduced in the order of time, without breaking the thread of
+the preceding narration.
+
+Outrages had been committed by the soldiers; and frequent quarrels had
+happened between them and the inhabitants of Boston, who viewed the
+military as come to dragoon them into obedience to statutes,
+instructions, and mandates that were thoroughly detested. Each day gave
+rise to new occurrences which augmented the animosity. Reciprocal
+insults soured the tempers, and mutual injuries embittered the passions
+of the opposite parties. Beside, some fiery spirits who resented the
+indignity of having soldiers quartered among them, were continually
+exciting the town’s people to quarrel with the troops. Not only so, but
+a pompous news-paper account of a victory obtained by the inhabitants of
+New-York over the soldiers there in an affray, undoubtedly excited the
+resentment of the military at Boston, and exultations among their
+opponents, and thus increased the ferment. Every thing tended to a
+crisis; and it is rather wonderful that it did not exist sooner, when so
+many circumstances united to hasten its approach. The lieutenant
+governor did not attend to those things properly, and was not
+sufficiently careful to prevent consequences, by strongly urging the
+officers to keep their men in the barracks as much as possible, and to
+maintain the strictest discipline. He was desirous of recommending
+himself both to them and the commissioners, and therefore was very
+cautious lest he should offend either.
+
+At length a private of the twenty-ninth regiment, passing along in the
+morning [March 2.] near Mr. John Gray’s ropewalk, being provoked by
+insulting words, resented it, and being overpowered, went off; but soon
+returned with a dozen soldiers, between whom and the ropemakers an
+affray ensued, which terminated in the defeat of the former; who in the
+afternoon armed themselves with clubs, and were on their way to renew
+the action, but were stopped. On this many of the town’s people were so
+enraged, that they determined on fighting it out with the soldiers on
+the Monday. The Rev. Dr. _Eliot_ was told of the determination on the
+Saturday; and was also informed that the bells were to be rung to
+assemble the inhabitants together; so that when on the Monday evening he
+heard them ring, he was not alarmed with an apprehension of its being on
+account of a fire’s breaking out in the town, which is generally the
+case.[103] It does not appear that any militia were called in before the
+firing upon the people, or that any regular plan was formed for
+compelling the troops to move from the town; it is absurd to think, on
+the other hand, that there was a settled plot for employing the soldiers
+to massacre the inhabitants. But from the characters, principles, and
+politics of certain persons among the leaders of the opposition, it may
+be feared, that they had no objection to a rencounter, that by
+occasioning the death of a few, might eventually clear the place of the
+two regiments. That some design was on foot, which might be attended
+with danger in the execution, may be gathered from lieutenant-colonel
+Marshall’s saying, when giving evidence for the crown—“The bells were
+ringing, and the people began to collect as they do at the cry of fire,
+and I began to think it was fire. I had a mind to go out, but I had a
+reluctance, because _I had been warned not to go out that night_;”
+meaning in which the men were shot.[104]
+
+[Mar. 5.] Between seven and eight o’clock at night, unusual numbers are
+met coming from the south end of the town, with sticks in their hands,
+and serious consequences are apprehended from it. About the same time
+parties, amounting in the whole to near two hundred, several with great
+sticks or clubs, proceed from the north end, some of whom say, “let us
+go to the south end and join our friends there, and attack the damned
+scoundrels and drive them out of the town; they have no business
+here.”—More people than common, with large sticks, are observed running
+from all quarters toward King-street. The north end parties collect in
+and about Dock-square, and attack several soldiers belonging to Murray’s
+barracks about nine o’clock: upon an officer’s coming up, these are
+ordered to their barracks, and when got in, with much difficulty, are
+immediately confined. The mob follow the officer to the gate, and
+provoke the soldiers by the most abusive language, and dare them to come
+out. They are hardly rastrained by their officers from doing it. While
+these things are transacting, some are calling _town born turn out_,
+twenty or thirty times over; others cry _fire, fire_, in different
+places, the more effectually to draw people out of their houses, and to
+increase their numbers; and soon after the nine o’clock bell has ceased,
+the bells are set a ringing, which those who are not better informed,
+imagine to be the alarm of fire.
+
+Upon the soldiers being restrained to the barracks, the mob are desired
+by one or more considerate persons to return home. A few comply, but the
+generality have something further to engage their attention. Numbers
+employ themselves in tearing up the stalls of the market-place in
+Dock-square, for the purpose they express while calling out, “Damn the
+dogs, where are they now? Let us go and kill that damned scoundrel of a
+sentry, and then attack the main-guard.” The body of the mob when they
+have finished their repeated attacks upon the barracks, are addressed in
+the street by a tall large man in a red cloak and white wig. After
+listening to what he has to offer, in the space of three or four minutes
+they huzza for the main-guard, and say, “We will do for the soldiers.”
+They separate into three divisions, and take different routs for
+King-street, one through the main-street. A party, who have collected at
+Oliver’s-dock, bend their course toward the same point. In the mean
+time, the sentry before the custom-house is assaulted while upon duty. A
+boy comes up, and pointing to him, says, “There is the son of a bitch
+that knocked me down.” About twenty young fellows, eighteen years old,
+call out, “kill him, kill him, knock him down.” Their behavior obliges
+him to load his gun. They pelt him with snow-balls, pieces of ice, and
+any thing that offers, and halloo, “fire and be damned.” They advanced
+upon him; oblige him to retreat; he mounts the steps, and knocks at the
+door for admission. Meeting with no relief in this way, more persons
+collecting in the street, and his danger increasing, he calls out to the
+main-guard, within hearing, for protection. Captain Preston, the officer
+of the day, being told that the ringing of the bells is the signal for
+the inhabitants assembling to attack the troops, repairs to the
+main-guard; and learning the situation of the sentry, sends off a
+corporal and six men to protect both him and the king’s chest in the
+custom-house. The soldiers march off with their pieces unloaded, and the
+captain follows to prevent disorder. Ere they have formed, that part of
+the mob which comes through the main-street, and appears to be headed by
+the mulatto Attucks, and to contain a number of sailers, upon coming to
+the town-house, exclaim—“Damn the rascals, this will never do; the
+readiest way to get rid of those people, is to attack the main-guard;
+strike at the root, this is the nest.” The soldiers are pelted while
+going to defend their comrade; and, when upon their station, are served
+as was the single sentry, have snow-balls, large pieces of ice, sticks
+and other things thrown at them, and are obliged to load for their own
+safety. The reproachful language with which they are abused exclusive of
+a plenty of oaths and execrations, is, “Come on you rascals, you lobster
+scoundrels, you bloody-backs, you cowards, you dastards for bringing
+arms against naked men; fire if you dare; fire and be damned, we know
+you dare not.” and much more to the same purpose. The reason for saying
+“you dare not fire,” is probably to be found in the doctrine latey
+advanced, “that soldiers, while on duty, may upon no occasion whatever
+fire upon their fellow-subjects, without the order of a civil
+magistrate.” The mob press in upon the soldiers, advance to the points
+of the bayonets, are desired to keep off, and are treated with cautious
+attention. This may be owing to apprehensions of danger to themselves in
+case of contrary conduct. The shouts, huzzas, threats, screams, and
+almost yells of the mob, with the ringing of the bells to increase the
+general confusion, may justly alarm them; but their precaution soon
+avails nothing. While they are pushing off the people, without once
+leaving their station or attempting to follow them, the mulatto, and
+about a dozen persons, several in sailors habits, come down to the spot,
+give three cheers, surround the soldiers, and strike their guns with
+clubs, crying out to the others, “Do not be afraid of them, they dare
+not fire; kill them, kill them; knock them over.” The mulatto aims a
+blow at captain Preston, strikes down one of the guns, seizes the
+bayonet with his left hand, and shows a hardy disposition answering to
+the threats which have been uttered. At this instant, there is a
+confused cry of “damn your bloods why don’t you fire,” and partly from
+persons behind the captain. Firing succeeds. Montgomery, whom the
+mulatto has assaulted, after recovering his legs, and relieving his gun
+by a sudden twitch, is the first that fires, and his assailant falls.
+After six or eight seconds, another fires, the other five follows in
+quick succession. It is agreed, that only seven out of the eight
+soldiers discharge their pieces, and that no one fires twice. Three
+persons are killed; five are very dangerously wounded, and a few
+slightly. Most are either passengers going through the street, or
+unassisting spectators. It is well that no more are killed, considering
+that there were from fifty to a hundred about the soldiers. They ran off
+at the firing, but soon assemble again to take away the dead and
+wounded.
+
+The whole town is immediately in the greatest commotion. Their drums
+beat to arms, and there is a constant calling out, “to arms, to arms,
+turn out with your guns.” The townsmen assemble in the next street, to
+the amount of some thousands. The lieutenant-governor repairs to captain
+_Preston_, and upon coming up, asks him, “how came you to fire upon the
+people without the orders of a civil magistrate?” The captain begins to
+apologize for what had happened, by saying, “_we were insulted_;” and is
+about adding more, but recollecting the impropriety of the place, stops
+short, and asks Mr. _Hutchinson_ to walk up into the guard room, where
+he means to finish what he has begun; but the lieutenant-governor goes
+to the council chamber. The captain’s words are observed by some
+gentlemen, who attend Mr. Hutchinson, and are considered as conceding to
+the implied charge of having given direction to fire, and are remembered
+to his disadvantage. Mr. Hutchinson cannot avoid exposing himself in the
+midst of the enraged inhabitants, upon whom he prevails to disperse till
+morning. It having been a clear moon-light night, persons have been
+enabled to distinguish what passed.
+
+[March 6.] The next morning the people collected in vast bodies. The
+lieutenant-governor summons a council. Before any debate commences,
+lieutenant-colonel _Dalrymple_, and lieutenant-colonel _Carr_ attend,
+being informed that they may if they will. The town meets in full
+assembly, and choose a committee, who, while the business is largely
+discussing in council, wait upon the lieutenant-governor and deliver him
+a message, declaring, “It is the unanimous opinion of the meeting, that
+nothing can rationally be expected to restore the peace of the town, and
+prevent blood and carnage, but the immediate removal of the troops.”
+Colonel Dalrymple signifies to Mr. Hutchinson, his readiness to place
+the 29th regiment, which has rendered itself in a special manner
+obnoxious, in the barracks at the castle.
+
+In the afternoon the lieutenant-governor receives another message,
+acquainting him, that it is the opinion of the meeting, consisting of
+near three thousand people, that nothing but a total and immediate
+removal of the troops will satisfy. Mr. _Samuel Adams_, one of the
+committee, in his venerable grey locks, and with hands trembling under a
+nervous complaint, tells colonel _Dalrymple_, “If you can remove the
+29th regiment, you can also remove the 14th; and it is at your peril if
+you do not;” and continues talking to him in such a resolute tone, and
+with such strong implications, as nearly to communicate the trembling to
+the colonel. Mr. _Hutchinson_ wishes to get clear of the council, but
+finds it impossible; and therefore lays the matter before them. Several
+declare their apprehensions of more bloodshed, unless the troops are
+removed. Mr. _Royal Tyler_ in his zeal for effecting it, say to him, “It
+is not such people as formerly pulled down your house who conduct the
+present measures. No; they are people of the best characters among us,
+men of estates, men of religion. They have formed their plan for
+removing the troops out of town, and it is impossible they should remain
+in it. The people will come in from the neighboring towns; there will be
+ten thousand men to effect the removal of the troops, who will probably
+be destroyed by the people, be it called a rebellion, or occasion the
+loss of our charter, or be the consequence what it may.” When Mr.
+_Tyler_ said, _they have formed their plan_, it was not to be understood
+that the plan was formed prior, but subsequent to the bloodshed of the
+preceding evening. His representations might be aggravated: even when
+there is not a natural cast for the hyperbole, persons inflamed by
+passion, will imperceptibly have a recourse to the figure. Mr.
+Hutchinson tells the council, “Nothing shall ever induce me to order the
+troops out of town.” They, upon that, unanimously advise him to request
+colonel Dalrymple to order them to the castle. To the colonel he says,
+“I have nothing to do with it, it lies wholly with you.” While they are
+pressing him, the people are informed, that the colonel is ready to
+remove the rigiments, if the lieutenant governor will only join in
+desiring it. He inclines to stand out, and to leave it with the colonel
+and council to settle as they can agree about the business. He
+deliberates till near night, dreading lest any one measure he may adopt,
+shall lessen him in the opinion of the ministry and endanger his
+advancement. At length the secretary, Mr. _Oliver_, perceiving how
+artfully matters are managed, whispers him in the ear, “you must either
+comply or determine to leave the province.” This prevails; he complies
+with the advice of the council, and the general ferment begins to
+subside. The troops, however, are not removed so early as is expected by
+the town; they continue till the next Monday; and upon the colonel’s
+being asked the reason, he mentions that it lies at the door of the
+lieutenant governor, who shuffles with the colonel, in hope that some
+occurrence will exist, which may exempt him from being charged with
+occasioning the removal of the troops by the interposition of his
+advice.
+
+Meanwhile captain Preston and his party are committed to jail. One of
+the wounded men dies. It is determined to bury the four persons[105] in
+one vault, and in a peculiarly respectful manner. [March 8.] The
+generality of the shops in town are shut. All the bells of Boston,
+Charlestown, and Roxbury, are ordered to toll in the most doleful tone.
+The corpses form a junction in King-street, where they fell when the
+soldiers fired. Hence they proceed in orderly succession through the
+main street, followed by an immense concourse of people, so numerous as
+to be obliged to go in ranks of six a-breast, and the whole closed by a
+long train of carriages belonging to the principal gentry of the town.
+Thus are they distinguished and honorably attended to the place of
+interment, with unparalleled pomp, not on account of personal merit, but
+to express the vehement indignation of the inhabitants against the
+slaughter of their brethren, by the British soldiery quartered among
+them, in violation, as they imagine, of their civil liberties.
+
+[October 24.] Captain Preston’s trial begins. Messrs. John Adams and
+Josiah Quincy are his council. They are warm in the cause of liberty,
+and offend several of their own party by undertaking the defence of the
+prisoner; but faithfully employ their distinguished abilities in his
+behalf. The trial does not finish till the thirtieth. While carrying on,
+Mr. Quincy pushes the examination and cross-examination of the witnesses
+to such an extent, that Mr. Adams, in order to check it, is obliged to
+tell him, that if he will not desist, he shall decline having any thing
+further to do in the cause. The captain and his friends are alarmed, and
+consult about engaging another counsellor; but Mr. Adams has no
+intention of abandoning his client. He is sensible that there is
+sufficient evidence to obtain a favorable verdict from an impartial
+jury; and only feels for the honor of the town, which he apprehends will
+suffer yet more, if the witnesses are examined too closely and
+particularly, and by that mean more truth be drawn from them than what
+has an immediate connection with the soldiers firing, by or without the
+orders of the captain. When the trial is ending, judge Lynde, toward the
+close of his speech, says, “Happy am I to find, after such strict
+examination, the conduct of the prisoner appears in so fair a light; yet
+I feel myself deeply affected, that this affair turns out so much to the
+disgrace of every person concerned against him, and so much to the shame
+of the town in general.” The jury returned their verdict—Not guilty.
+
+[Nov. 27.] On Tuesday commences the trial of William Wemms, James
+Hartegan, William M‘Cauley, Hugh White, Matthew Killroy, William Warren,
+John Carrol, and Hugh Montgomery, soldiers in the 29th regiment, for the
+murder of Crispus Attucks, Samuel Gray, Samuel Maverick, James Caldwell,
+and Patrick Carr, the last of whom did not die till ten days after he
+was wounded. The soldiers have the same counsel that was engaged for
+their captain. The trial is continued from day to day, Sunday excepted,
+till Wednesday, December the fifth. Attempts were made to prejudice the
+people against the prisoners, one especially in a certain weekly paper
+the day before the trial began. The publication included an insult on
+the supreme court, and expressed the greatest malignity of heart.—To
+counteract the baneful effects of all such proceedings, Mr. Quincy, in
+his address to the justices and jury, observes—“We must steel ourselves
+against passions, which contaminate the fountain of justice. Let it be
+borne deep upon our minds, that the prisoners are to be condemned by the
+evidence _here in court_ produced against them, and by nothing else.
+Matters heard or seen abroad, are to have no weight; in general they
+undermine the pillars of justice and truth. As though a series of _ex
+parte_ evidence was not enough, all the colours of the canvas have been
+touched in order to freshen the wounds, and by a transport of
+imagination we are made present at the scene of action. The prints
+exhibited in our houses have added wings to fancy, and in the fervor of
+our zeal, reason is in hazard of being lost. The pomp of funeral, the
+horrors of death, have been so delineated, as to give a spring to our
+ideas, and inspire a glow incompatible with sound, deliberate judgment.
+In this situation, every passion has alternately been predominant. They
+have each in turn subsided in degree, and they have sometimes given
+place to despondence, grief, and sorrow. How careful should we be, that
+we do not mistake the impressions of gloom and melancholy, for the
+dictates of reason and truth! How careful, lest borne away by a torrent
+of passion, we make shipwreck of conscience!
+
+“Many things yet exist sufficient to keep alive the glow of indignation.
+I have aimed at securing you against the catching flame. I have
+endeavored to discharge my duty in this respect. What success will
+follow those endeavors, depends on you, gentlemen. If being told of your
+danger will not produce caution, nothing will. If you are determined in
+opinion, it is in vain to say more; but if you are zealous enquirers
+after the truth; if you are willing to hear with impartiality, to
+examine and judge for yourselves, enough has been said to apprize you of
+those avenues at which the enemies of truth and justice are most likely
+to enter, and most easily to beset you.”
+
+When the evidence in favor of the prisoners is finished, Mr. Quincy
+resumes his address—“I stated to you, gentlemen, your duty in opening
+this cause. I pointed out the dangers to which you were exposed. How
+much need was there that you should suspend your judgment till the
+witnesses were all examined!—How different is the complexion of the
+case? Will not all this serve to show every honest man the little truth
+to be attained in partial hearings? This trial ought to have another
+effect; it should serve to convince us all of the impropriety, nay,
+injustice, of giving a latitude in conversation upon topics likely to
+come under a judicial decision; the criminality of this comduct is
+certainly inhanced, when such loose sallies and discourses are so
+prevalent as to be likely to touch the life of a citizen. In the present
+case, how great was the prepossession against us! and I appeal to you,
+gentlemen, as to what cause there now is to alter our sentiments.”
+
+In the course of pleading, he is under a necessity of saying,—“And here,
+gentlemen, I must first tell you by what law the prisoners are _not_ to
+be tried or condemned. And they most certainly are _not_ to be tried by
+the _Mosaic_ law: a law we take it, especially designed for the
+government of a peculiar nation, who being in a great measure under a
+theocratical from of government, its institutions cannot, with any
+propriety, be adduced for our regulation in these days. It is with pain,
+therefore, I have observed any eadeavor to mislead our judgment on this
+occasion, by drawing our attention to the precepts delivered in the days
+of Moses: and by disconnected passages of scripture, applied in a manner
+foreign to their original design or import, there seems to have been an
+attempt to touch some peculiar sentiments which we know are thought to
+be prevalent; and in this way we take it, an injury is like to be done,
+by giving the mind a bias it ought never to have received, because it is
+not warranted by our laws.”
+
+“We have heard it publicly said of late, oftener than formerly,
+_Whosoever sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed_. This
+is plainly, gentlemen, a general rule, which like all others of the kind
+must have its exceptions—a rule, which if taken in its strict literal
+latitude, would imply, that a man killing another in self-defence, would
+incur the pains of death—a doctrine that certainly never prevailed under
+the _Mosaical_ institution; for we find the _Jews_ had their six cities
+of refuge, to which the man-slayer might flee from the avenger of
+blood.” Let it be observed _en passant_, that it was ordained that the
+man-slayer should abide in the city of refuge till the death of the
+high-priests, so every person to escape such confinement and restraint,
+would be extremely careful lest he should prove the casual occasion of
+another’s death; and would not venture upon gratifying a settled or
+sudden evil disposition, by needlessly slaying a fellow-creature,
+because it would pass for chance-medly. But to go on in company with Mr.
+Quincy. “And so, that _the_ MURDERER _shall flee to the pit_, comes
+under the same consideration. And when we hear it asked, as it very
+lately has been,” Who DARE stay him? “I answer, if the laws of our
+country stay him, you ought to do likewise; and every good subject
+_dares_ to do what the law allows. But the very position is _begging the
+question_; for the question now in issue is, whether either of the
+prisoners is _a murderer_ in the sense of our laws, what is murder and
+what not, is a _question of law_ arising upon facts stated and allowed.”
+
+“Again, you shall take no satisfaction for the life of a _murderer_, who
+is _guilty of death_.” Here again is a begging the question; and
+moreover the words _guilty of death_, if rightly considered, must be one
+of those general rules which always have their exceptions. But in the
+margin of our great bible, we find them rendered _faulty to die_.
+Against a position of this kind we have no objection. If we have
+committed _a fault_, on which our laws inflict the punishment of
+_death_, we must suffer. But what fault we have committed, you are to
+inquire; or rather you, gentlemen, are to find the _facts proved in
+court against us_, and the judges are to see and consider what the law
+pronounces touching our offence, and what punishment is thereby
+inflicted as a penalty.”
+
+Mr. John Adams, in his pleadings, produces from the best authorities,
+those rules of law which must govern all cases of homicide, and
+particularly that which is before the court; and then considers the
+evidence, to see whether any thing has occurred that may be compared to
+the rules of law. He enters into a minute consideration of every witness
+produced on the crown side; and endeavours to show from the evidence on
+that side, that the assault upon the party was sufficiently dangerous to
+justify the prisoners; at least that it was sufficiently provoking to
+reduce to manslaughter the crime even of the two, who are supposed to be
+proved guilty of having killed. He then proceeds to consider the
+testimonies of the witnesses for the prisoners; and concludes with—“I
+will enlarge no more on the evidence, but submit to you,
+gentlemen.—Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes,
+our inclinations, or the dictates of our passions, they cannot alter the
+state of facts and evidence: nor is the law less stable than the fact.
+If an assault was made to endanger their lives the law is clear, they
+had a right to kill in their own defence. If it was not so severe as to
+endanger their lives, yet if they were assaulted at all, struck and
+abused by blows of any sort, by snow-balls, oyster-shells, cinders,
+clubs, or sticks of any kind, this was a provocation for which the law
+reduces the offence of killing down to manslaughter, in consideration to
+those passions in our nature which cannot be eradicated.—To your candor
+and justice I submit the prisoners and their cause.”
+
+“The law, in all vicissitudes of government, fluctuations of the
+passions, or flights of enthusiasm, will preserve a steady undeviating
+course; it will not bend to the uncertain wishes, imaginations, and
+wanton tempers of men. To use the words of a great and worthy man, a
+patriot, and an hero, an enlightened friend of mankind, and martyr to
+liberty, I mean ALGERNON SIDNEY, who from his earliest infancy sought a
+tranquil retirement under the shadow of the tree of liberty, with his
+tongue, his pen, and his sword. “The law (says he) no passion can
+disturb. ’Tis void of desire and fear, lust and anger. ’Tis mens _sine
+affectu_; written reason; retaining some measure of the divine
+perfection. It does not enjoin that which pleases a weak, frail man, but
+without any regard to persons, commands that which is good, and punishes
+evil in all, whether rich or poor, high or low. ’Tis deaf, inexorable,
+inflexible.” On the one hand it is inexorable to the cries and
+lamentations of the prisoners; on the other it is deaf, deaf as an adder
+to the clamors of the populace.”
+
+The judges when summing up the evidence to the jury, and giving their
+opinions of the constructions of law upon the evidence apply themselves
+to the removing of those bad impressions, which may possibly have been
+made upon the jury by the misconstruction of scripture passages. Says
+one of them—“In the course of this year you doubtless have heard much of
+the law given to the _Jews_ respecting homicide, as well as of the
+precept given to Noah, that _whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall
+his blood be shed_. Whence it has been inferred, that whosoever
+_voluntarily_ kills another, whatever the inducement or provocation may
+be, is a _murderer_, and as such ought to be put to death.—But surely
+not only the avenger of blood, and he who killed a thief breaking up a
+house in the night, were exceptions to that general precept, but also he
+who killed another in his own defence. Even the Jewish doctors allowed
+this, and that justly; because the right of self defence is founded in
+the law of nature.” It appears upon the trial, that the facts related
+above, under the fifth of March are well attested. There are no less
+than _thirty-eight_ witnesses to prove a design to attack the soldiers.
+Six of whom the council for the king have produced. Nigh _thirty_
+witnesses have sworn to words of provocation uttered against the
+prisoners, as daring them to fire, and threatening to kill them; and
+_twenty-five_ have witnessed to _ice_, _snow-balls_, _sticks_, &c. being
+thrown at them, ten, of whom are witnesses for the crown.—There is
+evidence that Patrick Carr, one of the deceased, repeatedly declared and
+confirmed the same but a few hours before he died—that he went with a
+design against the soldiers; that he thought they were abused and would
+have fired before; that he forgave and did not blame the man, whoever he
+was that shot him; that he blamed himself for going to the riot, and
+might have known better, for he had seen soldiers called to quell riots,
+but never saw any bear half so much before. The jury withdrew for about
+two hours and a half. Upon comparing the evidence, they cannot be
+convinced that the soldiers were not too hasty in firing. Was there
+evidence of all having fired, they would convict all of manslaughter;
+but it is agreed on all hands, that no more than seven guns were fired,
+consequently one is innocent, and they choose that the guilty shall
+escape rather than one innocent person be convicted.[106] They return
+into court and agree, that as to Wemms, Hartegan, M‘Cauley, White,
+Warren, and Carrol, they are not guilty, on which they are immediately
+discharged. As to Killroy and Montgomery, they agree that they are not
+guilty of murder, but of manslaughter. Both pray the benefit of clergy,
+which is allowed; each is burnt in the hand in open court, and
+discharged. [Dec. 5.] The trial has been long, but the issue of it, as
+well as of that of the captain’s, may be brought in proof of the
+integrity of Boston juries, venturing to give upright verdicts in
+defiance of popular opinions.
+
+[Dec. 12.] Edward Manwaring, esq. John Munroe, gentleman, Hammond Green,
+boat-builder, and Thomas Greenwood, labourer, were tried for being
+present, aiding, assisting, &c. William Warran in the murder of Crispus
+Attucks. The whole evidence consisted in one witness’s declaring that he
+saw two flashes from the custom-house, one from the balcony, the other
+from a chamber window, and a person in the balcony with a gun or pistol
+in his hand; and in the testimony of a French boy, servant to Mr.
+Manwaring, who swore to his being at the custom-house when the soldiers
+fired, and to a story of persons firing out of the chamber window. The
+falsehood of the whole evidence was immediately detected by a number of
+the most creditable witnesses, so that the jury acquitted the prisoners
+without going from their seats.
+
+In the pleadings upon the trials, (of the soldiers especially) Mr. John
+Adams discussed the subject of homicide so largely, and showed so fully
+by what a variety of circumstances it was reduced to manslaughter, that
+the popular leaders perceived the necessity of altering their plan of
+opposition to the military, and from thence forward promoted a
+particular attention to the militia and the manual exercise, that the
+country might be qualified for repelling arms by arms, whenever the same
+should be requisite for the preservation of their liberties.
+
+The ferment occasioned by the minesterial measures did not subside in
+the New-York colony any more than in the Massachusetts.
+
+About the middle of January, and at night, the _liberty-pole_ was cut
+down by the soldiery, which enraged the inhabitants, and produced much
+disturbance and riot afterward between them and the troops. The soldiers
+posted up papers about the city against the sons of liberty which
+occasioned a considerable affray.—The opposition soon expressed their
+determination to preserve, by erecting a new _liberty-pole_, strongly
+secured with iron, to prevent its being demolished. The _May-poles_ in
+different parts of the continent had changed their names, or given place
+to _liberty-pole_, after the exhibition upon the liberty tree at Boston
+during the stamp act. The conduct of the soldiers was probably owing to
+the measures which had been taken the preceding month, in order to
+prevent the assembly’s granting money for the support of the troops. The
+assembly had in their former session, voted to supply his majesty’s
+troops quartered in the colony, which gave great umbrage. To quiet the
+people they made a unanimous declaration, that it should be the last
+supply they would ever grant, until their grievances were redressed, and
+it gave satisfaction. But the house in the present session, passed a
+vote for a further supply of £.2000 which greatly inflamed the minds of
+the inhabitants. Two papers were published upon the occasion: the one
+addressed _to the betrayed inhabitants of the city and colony of_
+NEW-YORK, and signed A SON OF LIBERTY: the other signed LEGION, desiring
+the inhabitants to meet in the fields. The papers were voted _false_,
+_seditious_, and _infamous_ libels by the assembly, who desired the
+lieutenant governor to issue out proclamations, offering a reward for
+the discovery of the authors, £.100 for the first, and £.50 for the last
+A stripling who had been journeyman to the printer of the first, but
+discharged for bad behavior, allured by the proffered reward, lodged a
+complaint against his late master, who was terrified into a discovery of
+Mr. _M‘Dougall_ as the publisher. Mr. _M‘Dougall_ was by the chief
+justice’s warrant brought before him, and upon refusing to give bail was
+committed to jail. [Feb. 8.] In consequence of the second paper, about
+1400 inhabitants met, and appointed Mr. _John Lamb_ to propound
+questions relative to the vote of the assembly. After explaining it, the
+question was put, “Do you approve of the vote?” _No_ was the answer. He
+proceeded, “Are you for giving money to the troops, on any consideration
+whatsoever?” It was again _No_. There were but about half a dozen for
+the affirmative upon either of the questions. He then asked, “Will you
+appoint a committee to communicate the whole of this transaction to your
+members?” _Yes_ was the word. They then appointed for the committee,
+Messrs. _Isaac Sears_, _Casper Wister_, _Alexander M‘Dougall_, _Jacobus
+Van Zandt_, _Samuel Broome_, jun. _Erasmus Williams_, and _James Van
+Vaurk_.—The meeting in the fields, and the transactions at it, were
+several weeks before the discovery and commitment of Mr. _M‘Dougall_.
+Mr. _Lamb_ was called before the house to answer for his conduct; but in
+the mean time the committee wrote to the speaker, acknowledging
+themselves, in every respect parties with him, and answerable for each
+step that had been taken, and ready to defend their conduct in a
+constitutional manner. When Mr. _Lamb_ appeared before the assembly, he
+told them that he had assembled with the rest of his fellow-citizens,
+and had proposed _questions_, which as a citizen, a freeman, and an
+_Englishman_, he had a right to do, and was surprised to hear it
+controverted. The house finding that they had to do with the men of sens
+and resolution, who were determined upon supporting the rights of their
+countrymen and fellow citizens, gave up the point and dismissed them.
+Their vote of £.2000 for the troops soon passed into a law: but the
+deficiency demanded by the lieutenant governor as arrears amounted to
+upward of £.1000 was left unpaid. Had there been a provision for the
+arrears; the compliance of the mutiny act would have been formal and
+complete. The matters were carried so far must be attributed to an
+extraordinary and sudden coalition in the assembly between politicians,
+who had long been at mortal variance.
+
+[April.] The grand jury found a bill against captain _M‘Dougall_, but
+the trial was put off; and he was bailed out of jail.—When he house met
+again toward the close of the year, he was ordered to attend at their
+bar. The speaker asked him whether he was the author or publisher of the
+address, &c. He declined answering, and assigned his reasons. It was
+resolved, that in his reply he denied the authority of the house, and
+was therefore guilty of a high contempt. On his refusing to ask pardon
+of the house, he was ordered into custody, and the speaker issued his
+warrant to the jail-keeper of the city to receive and keep him prisoner
+until he should be discharged by due course of law. He remained in jail
+till the assembly was prorogued on the 25th of the following February
+1771, when he was enlarged after a confinment of near three months. It
+was not till March the 27th that he was discharged from his
+recognizance, by the supreme court then sitting at _New-York_, (without
+having been brought to a trial) after having been under bonds for near
+twelve months, and suffered twenty and three weeks actual imprisonment.
+He was the first sufferer for liberty after the commencement of the
+united efforts of the American sons to frustrate the ministerial plans
+for encroaching upon, and eventually subverting their long claimed and
+enjoyed rights and privileges. This honor belongs to a gentleman born in
+Scotland, and who is indeed, what he signed himself, _A son of Liberty_.
+He bore his imprisonment with fortitude; but the disagreeableness of it
+was much lessened, and the disgrace of it wholly removed, as the
+citizens of the highest and best characters ladies and gentlemen
+resorted to the place of his confinement. His character as well as his
+case was good; so that the most virtuous espousers of the latter were
+neither afraid nor ashamed, by their repeated visits, to afford him
+their public countenance.
+
+The _Massachusetts_ again demands your attention.
+
+[May 31.] The new general court met at _Cambridge_; the house
+remonstrated against being held there, or at any other place than
+_Boston_; and by a majority of 69 out of 102, voted it to be a very
+great grievance, and resolved not to do business out of _Boston_; on
+which the lieutenant governor prorogued them.
+
+[July 25.] They met again, but the assembly refused to do business; and
+in their message to Mr. _Hutchinson_, insited upon the right of people
+to appeal to heaven in disputes between them and persons in power, when
+there is an abuse of power; but they softened what they advanced, by
+saying “We would, however, by no means be understood to suggest, that
+this people have occasion at present to proceed to such extremity”; and
+yet they afterward added, “these and other grievances and cruelties, too
+many to be here enumerated, and too melancholy to be much longer borne
+by this people, we have seen brought upon us by the devices of the
+ministers of state.” They were prorogued afresh.
+
+[Sept. 26.] They met a third time. The lieutenant governor told them
+that the garrison at the castle in the pay of the province was to be
+withdrawn by order of his majesty, and the fortress to be garrisoned by
+regular forces. His orders were to deliver the possession of the fort to
+such officer as general _Gage_ should direct to take the command of it.
+The information excited a suspicion in the assembly, who despaired of
+obtaing a removal to Boston by persisting in a refusal to do business;
+the leaders therefore procured this vote: [Sept. 29.] “Rosolved, that
+the next Wednesday [Oct. 3.] be observed by the two houses as a day of
+prayer, to seek the Lord for his direction and blessing,” which went up
+to the council, and was unanimously concurred. Men of profane cast are
+too prone to ridicule religion, because of its being made a
+stalking-horse to serve the purposes of politicians. Would they confine
+their wit and satire to the parties offending, the correction would be
+proper. But let not the well-intentioned and undesigning children of
+devotion, be charged with hypocritical canting, because they are imposed
+upon and duped by the subtelty of guides, who, like most thorough-paced
+politicians, can change themselves into angels of light, that they may
+perfect their devices.
+
+[Oct 9.] The house resolved to proceed to business from absolute
+necessity, protesting against the restraint the general court was held
+under to do it out of _Boston_. A few days after, they sent to the
+lieutenant governor to know whether he held the command at the _Castle_.
+“If the custody and government of that fortress,” said they, “is now
+lodged with the military power, independent of the supreme civil
+magistrate within this jurisdiction, it is so essential an alteration of
+the constitution as must justly alarm a free people.” His answer was so
+worded, as to leave the assembly, in general, ground for concluding that
+the military in the castle were dependent upon himself the same as were
+the provincials. When he delivered it up, he repaired thither, sent for
+the keys, and upon colonel _Dalrymple’s_ coming into the state room with
+his officers, gave them to him, and lodged with him the custody and
+government of the fort; but retained some trifling appearances of
+superior command. He soon learnt, however, that he could not come at a
+flag when in want of it, or even oars for a boat, without applying to
+general _Gage_.
+
+[Nov. 6.] The representatives resolved, that the merchants having
+receded from their non-importation agreement, &c. they would discourage
+prodigality, extravagance, and the use of foreign superfluities; and
+promote industry, frugality, and their own manufactures in the several
+towns they represented.
+
+[7.] They appointed a committee of correspondence to communicate
+intelligence to the agents and others in Great-Britain, and to the
+speakers of their several assemblies through the continent, or such
+committees as they have appointed or may appoint.
+
+Before the lieutenant governor prorogued them, he observed to them, that
+since they had discovered a resolution to remove unnecessary obstacles,
+they had done more business, notwithstanding all the inconveniencies
+from the place of holding the court, which they had insisted upon, than
+he remembered to have been done in the like space of time since he had
+shared in public affairs.
+
+[April 3, 1771.] The following spring-session produced nothing very
+material, but afforded him the pleasing opportunity of acquainting the
+general court, in form, of his being appointed captain-general and
+commander in chief over the province. The council presented a
+congratulatory address, and expressed their satisfaction at his
+appointment. Upon the question in the house of assembly, whether to
+appoint a committee to prepare an address, their was a negative. The
+house, however, afterward requested the removal of the general court to
+_Boston_ which was not granted.
+
+[May 29.] They met, as the year before, at _Cambridge_. In three weeks
+the assembly protested against his excellency’s convening them there,
+and afterward appointed a committee of correspondence.
+
+[July 4.] The governor informed the house, that by his majesty’s
+instruction, he was forbidden giving his consent to such an act as
+subjects the officers of the crown to be taxed, by the assessors in the
+towns where they reside, for the profits which they receive from their
+commissions, although their offices have no relation to the province, so
+that the tax-bill must be qualified.
+
+[5.] The house, by message, expressed their surprise and alarm at the
+reason assigned for his not assenting to the tax-bill, and said, “We
+know of no commissioners of his majesty’s customs, nor of any revenue
+his majesty has a right to establish in _North-America_. We know and
+feel a tribute levied and extorted from those, who, if they have
+property, have a right to the absolute disposal of it.”
+
+Had it been known, how insignificant the taxes were which the officers
+of the crown were required to pay, it is hard to conceive how wisdom
+could have dictated such instruction, and have ventured to give a fresh
+disgust to those, who were already too much irritated. However, the
+governor’s instructions did not oblige him to confine the general court
+to _Cambridge_, and he might have removed them to _Boston_; but by
+showing a firmness in opposing their desires, while they protested
+against the restrant they were under, he meant to recommend himself to
+the ministry. By the same intention he was induced, in a great measure,
+to refuse his consent to the grants made to Mr. _Bollan_ and Mr. _De
+Berdt’s_ executors by this assembly, as he had done in respect to those
+made by the preceding. These refusals served to keep up the animosity.
+
+The disposition to import goods into the Massachusetts, in defiance of
+the laws of revenue and trade, and to support such practices by open
+violences upon the officers, whose duty it was to carry the laws into
+execution, broke out upon many occasions; and, as usual, the magistrates
+declined giving their assistance and support, being in principle opposed
+to such laws, as fundamentally defective in point of rectitude. The like
+disposition to import goods prevailed in the other colonies; but there
+was no call to go into the like open violences.
+
+[Dec. 3.] Mr. Otis, jun. was carried off in a post-chaise, bound hand
+and foot, his reasoning powers being wholly deranged. This calamity,
+which somewhat lessens the weight of opposition to ministerial measures,
+is to be imputed, not to any effects of the affray with Mr. _Robinson_,
+but rather to the high tone given to his animal frame by the strength of
+his passions, and a failure in the point of temperance. The sons of
+liberty would have sustained an excessive loss, had this event taken
+place in the early stage of the opposition; but the times had brought so
+many able persons of similar sentiments into the general court, who had
+been training for four years, and were conversant with the political
+management of public business, that the plans of the Massachusetts
+anti-governmental party suffered no derangement.
+
+An opportunity now offers of mentioning, that Sir Alexander Gilmour,
+baronet, and George Dempster, esq. were the gentlemen who so nobly
+distinguished themselves by voting for the repeal of the stamp act,
+while all the other Scotch members present voted against it.
+
+After what has been written and transmitted, you will judge yourself
+under an obligation to return me speedy information of all that is doing
+in Great-Britain relative to the American colonies.
+
+
+
+
+                               LETTER V.
+
+
+                                               _Roxbury, June 25, 1773._
+
+[1772.] The annual elections of the _Massachusetts_ were in favor of the
+friends to colonial liberty; but the state of Mr. _Otis_’s mind
+necessarily occasioned his being left out of the list of the _Boston_
+representatives.
+
+[May 28.] The general court still met at _Cambridge_, but the governor
+adopted a conciliating measure, in declining to negative Mr. _Hancock_,
+who was again chosen one of the council.—He had been repeatedly chosen,
+and till now as repeatedly negatived; he declined, however, taking his
+seat at the board, choosing to remain in the assembly as one of the
+Boston members.
+
+[June 13.] Mr. _Hutchinson_ acquainted the house, in answer to a
+message, that his majesty had made provision for his support; and then,
+after requiring the opinion and advice of the council, upon their oaths,
+whether he might now remove the general court to Boston, consistent with
+the signification of his majesty’s pleasure to him, and receiving their
+unanimous opinion and advice in the affirmative, adjourned them to meet
+at Boston. He might have asked and received that very advice long
+before.
+
+A committee having been appointed to consider the matter of the
+governor’s support being provided for by the king, reported and observed
+[July 10.] “That the king’s providing for the support of the governor is
+a most dangerous innovation. It is a measure, whereby not only the right
+of the general assembly of this province is rescinded, but the highest
+indignity is thrown upon it. It is an infraction of the charter in a
+material point, whereby a most important trust is wrested out of the
+hands of the general assembly.” And the house, the same day, declared by
+a message to the governor, “That the making provision for his
+excellency’s support, independent of the grants and acts of the general
+assembly, and his excellency’s receiving the same, is an infraction upon
+the rights of the inhabitants granted by the royal charter.”
+
+The payment of the governors by the crown, is not relished by the
+colonies, as it makes them entirely dependent upon that, and wholly
+independent of the people and provincial assemblies; and as it destroys
+the mutual check which each branch of the legislature ought to have upon
+the others, and that balance of power which is essential to all free
+governments. It will be a new source of complaint. On the other hand,
+the affair which has happened in _Rhode-Island_ government will prove a
+fresh provocation to ministry, and tend to fix them in their plans
+respecting the colonies.
+
+Lieutenant _Duddington_, the commander of the late armed schooner the
+_Gaspee_, had been remarkably assiduous in supporting the laws against
+smuggling, and in searching after contraband goods, by which he had
+given great offence. He had also brought upon himself the resentment of
+many, by firing at the _Providence_ packets (employed in transporting
+goods and passengers from thence to _Newport_, and _vice versa_) in
+order to oblige the masters to take down their colours, and by chacing
+them even into the docks when it had been refused. The _Providence_
+packet coming up as usual with colours flying and company on board,
+probably a party of pleasure, as is frequent in the summer season, and
+refusing to take them down, the lieutenant fired a shot, which being
+disregarded, he chaced. [June 9.] It was near upon, or quite high water.
+The packet stood in with the land as close as consisted with safety,
+designing that the _Gaspee_ should be run a-ground in the chace. The
+design succeeded. The Gaspee was soon fast, and could not stir, the tide
+having done flowing. The packet proceeded to town. The situation of the
+Gaspee, and resentment against the commander, excited the thought of
+attacking and destroying her. Mr. _John Brown_, a considerable merchant
+of _Providence_, was the principal in the business. Captain _Whipple_
+was immediately employed to beat up for volunteers, and a number offered
+and engaged to go upon any service for which they were wanted. Several
+whale boats were procured and filled with armed men. Mr. Brown
+accompanied them in the expedition. Captain Whipple, as they proceeded,
+observed to Mr. Brown, that he might lose his life, and that he had a
+family, and therefore he required that care should be taken of them in
+case of his death. Mr. Brown engaged to do it should that happen. [June
+10.] About two o’clock in the morning, they boarded and carried the
+schooner, as she lay a-ground about seven miles below Providence. Mr.
+Brown himself was the first on board. The lieutenant was wounded. He and
+the crew were put on shore, and every thing valuable belonging to him
+was taken out and saved for him; after which the Gaspee, with all her
+stores, was burned.
+
+Though a reward of five hundred pounds, together with a pardon, if
+claimed by an accomplice, has been offered by proclamation for
+discovering and apprehending any of the persons concerned: yet the
+commissioners appointed to try the matter, have transmitted accounts to
+ministry, that _they can obtain no evidence_. If any one had wished to
+give evidence, that he might get the reward, yet the thought that he
+should risk his life, or be obliged to fly the country and become a
+perpetual exile, would naturally have overcome such propensity. It was
+too hazardous to turn informer. Some who were secured, in expectation
+that they would give intelligence, were assisted by the populace in
+making their escape, before any thing material could be learnt from them
+by the commissioners.
+
+Governor _Hutchinson_ and his adherents having been used to represent
+the party in opposition, as only an uneasy factious few in Boston, while
+the body of the people were quite contented; Mr. _Samuel Adams_ was
+thereby induced to visit Mr. _James Warren_ of _Plymouth_. After
+conversing upon the subject, the latter proposed to originate and
+establish committees of correspondence in the several towns of the
+colony, in order to learn the strength of the friends to the rights of
+the continent, and to unite and increase their force. Mr. Samuel Adams
+returned to Boston, pleased with the proposal, and communicated the same
+to his confidents. Some doubted whether the measure would prosper, and
+dreaded a disappointment, which might injure the cause of liberty. But
+it was concluded to proceed. The prime managers were about six in
+number; each of whom when separate, headed a division; the several
+individuals of which, collected and led distinct subdivisions. In this
+manner the political engine has been constructed. The different parts
+are not equally good and operative. Like other bodies, its composition
+includes numbers who act mechanically, as they are pressed this or that
+way by those who judge for them; and divers of the wicked, fitted for
+evil practices when the adoption of them is thought necessary to
+particular purposes, and a part of whose creed it is, that in political
+matters the public good is above every other consideration, and that all
+rules of morality when in competition with it, may be safely dispensed
+with. When any important transaction is to be brought forward, it is
+thoroughly considered by the prime managers. If they approve, each
+communicates it to his own division; from thence, if adopted, it passes
+to the several subdivisions, which form a general meeting in order to
+canvass the business. The prime managers being known only by a few to be
+the promoters of it, are desired to be present at the debate, that they
+may give their opinion when it closes. If they observe that the
+collected body is in general strongly agains the measure they wish to
+have carried, they declare it to be improper; is it opposed by great
+numbers, but not warmly, they advise to a re-consideration at another
+meeting, and prepare for its being then adopted; if the opposition is
+not considerable, either in number or weight of persons, they give their
+reasons, and then recommend the adoption of the measure. The principal
+actors are determined upon securing the liberties of their country, or
+perishing in the attempt.
+
+The news of his majesty’s granting salaries to the justices of the
+superior court, afforded them a fair opportunity for executing the plan
+of establishing committees of correspondence through the colony. The
+most spirited pieces were published, and an alarm spread, that the
+granting such salaries tended rapidly to complete the system of their
+slavery.
+
+[Nov. 2.] A town meeting was called, and a committee of correspondence
+appointed, to write circular letters to all the towns in the province,
+and to induce them to unite in measures. [Nov. 19.] The committee made a
+report, containing several resolutions contradictory to the supremacy of
+the British legislature. After setting forth, that all men have a right
+to remain in a state of nature as long as they please, they proceed to a
+report upon the natural rights of the colonists as men, christians and
+subjects; and then form a list of infringements and violations of their
+rights. They enumerate and dwell upon the British parliament’s having
+assumed the power of legislation for the colonies in all cases
+whatever—the appointment of a number of new officers to superintend the
+revenues—the granting of salaries out of the American revenue, to the
+governor, the judges of the superior court, the king’s attorney and
+solicitor general. The report was accepted; copies printed, and six
+hundred circulated through the towns and districts of the province, with
+a pathetic letter addressed to the inhabitants, who were called upon not
+to doze any longer, or sit supinely in indifference, while the iron hand
+of oppression was daily tearing the choicest fruits from the fair tree
+of liberty. The circular letter requested of each town a free
+communication of sentiments on the subjects of the report, and was
+directed to the select men, who were desired to lay the same before a
+town meeting, which has been generally practised, and the proceedings of
+the town upon the business have been transmitted to the committee at
+Boston. This committee have their particular correspondents in the
+several towns, who upon receiving any special information, are ready to
+spread it with dispatch among the inhabitants. It consists of twenty-one
+persons, of heterogeneous qualities and professions. The governor, in
+expectation of exciting prejudice, and fixing a stigma upon them, their
+connections and proceedings, has written to a gentleman in power,
+“Strange that a government, which within a century would suffer no
+person to be free of the commonwealth who was not one of their church
+members, should now take for their leaders, men who openly contemn all
+religion, and should join deacons and atheists in one trust; and that
+they should be instigated to this by some of the clergy, who make the
+highest pretences to devotion; and yet the spirit of political party
+produces all this.” He would gladly receive them all into his own arms,
+and be devoutly thankful for them, were they to change sides and join in
+supporting his administration. But he has unwarily acknowledged, that
+the government, or the great body of the people in their legislative and
+ruling capacity are in the opposition, which therefore cannot consist
+merely of a few factious leaders; and he appears not to have
+recollected, that men of opposite principles and characters will unite
+heart and hand, in keeping off a general calamity, which will involve
+them all in one and the same ruin. The towns in general have chosen
+committees of correspondence, and resolved in a stile agreeable to the
+wishes of the Bostonians. But the resolutions have not been alway drawn
+up by the townsmen. An inhabitant of _Petersham_ applied to that worthy
+and disinterested son of liberty, Mr. _Quincy_, whom you will recollect
+to have been of the counsel for captain Preston and the soldiers, for
+his assistance, and was furnished with the following draft, intended for
+Boston, excepting the introduction and the paragraphs marked with a
+star, which were added by some other person.
+
+[Jan. 4, 1773.] At a meeting of the freeholders and other inhabitants of
+the town of _Petersham_ in the county of _Worcester_, duly assembled
+according to law, held by adjournment on the 4th of January, 1773, the
+committee chosen on the 30th ult. made the following report, viz. “The
+town having received a circular letter from the town of _Boston_,
+respecting the present grievances and abominable oppressions under which
+this country groans, have thereupon taken into their most serious
+consideration the present policy of the British government and
+administration, with regard to Great-Britain and these colonies; have
+carefully reviewed the mode of election, and the quality of the electors
+of the commons of that island; and have also attentively reflected upon
+the enormous and growing influence of the crown, and that bane of all
+free states, a standing army in the time of peace; and in consequence
+thereof are fully confirmed in opinion, that the ancient rights of the
+nation are capitally invaded, and the greatest part of the most precious
+and established liberties of _Englishmen_ utterly destroyed: And whereas
+the parliament of Great-Britain, by various statutes and acts, have
+unrighteously distressed our trade, denied and precluded us from setting
+up and carrying on manufactures highly beneficial to the inhabitants of
+these territories; restricted and prevented our lawful intercourse and
+commerce with other states and kingdoms; have also made laws and
+institutions touching life and limb, in disherison of the ancient common
+law of the land; and moreover have in these latter times, robbed and
+plundered the honest and laborious inhabitants of this extensive
+continent of their property, by mere force and power; and are now
+draining this people of the fruits of their toil, by thus raising a
+revenue from them, against the natural rights of man, and in open
+violation of the laws of God.
+
+This town, in union with the worthy inhabitants of Boston, now think it
+their indispensable duty to consider of the premises and the present
+aspect of the times, and to take such steps as upon mature deliberation
+are judged right and expedient; and hereupon this town
+
+Resolved, That with a governor appointed from Great-Britain (especially
+at this day) during pleasure, with a large stipend, dependant upon the
+will of the crown, and controuled by instructions from a British
+minister of state, with a council subject to the negative of such a
+governor, and with all officers, civil and military, subject to his
+appointment or consent, with a castle in the hands of a standing army,
+stationed in the very bowels of the land; and that amazing number of
+placemen and dependants with which every maritime town already swarms,
+no people can ever be truly virtuous, free, or brave:
+
+Resolved, That the parliament of Great-Britain, usurping and exercising
+a legislative authority over, and extorting an unrighteous revenue from
+these colonies, is against all divine and human laws. The late
+appointment of salaries to be paid to our superior court judges, whose
+creation, pay, and commission depend on mere will and pleasure,
+completes a system of bondage equal to any ever fabricated by the
+combined efforts of the ingenuity, malice, fraud, and wickedness of man:
+
+* Resolved, That it is the opinion of this town, that a despotic,
+arbitrary government, is the kingdom of this world, as set forth in the
+New-Testament, and is diametrically opposite to the establishment of
+christianity in a society, and has a direct tendency to sink a people
+into a profound state of ignorance and irreligion; and that, if we have
+an eye to our own and posterity’s happiness (not only in this world, but
+the world to come) it is our duty to oppose such a government:
+
+* And further resolved, That the depriving the colonies of their
+constitutional rights, may be fitly compared to the dismembering the
+natural body, which will soon affect the heart; and it would be nothing
+unexpected for us to hear, that those very persons who have been so
+active in robbing the colonies of their constitutional rights, have also
+delivered up the constitution of our mother country into the hands of
+our king:
+
+Therefore resolved, That it is the first and highest social duty of this
+people, to consider of, and seek ways and means, for a speedy redress of
+these mighty grievances and intolerable wrongs; and that for the
+obtaining of this end, this people are warranted, by the laws of God and
+nature, in the use of every rightful art and energy of policy, stratagem
+and force.
+
+* And while we are thus under these awful frowns of divine Providence
+and involved as this people are in heavy calamities, which daily
+increase in number and severity, it is highly becoming towns and
+individuals to humble themselves before Almighty God, seriously to
+commune with their own hearts, and seek carefully with tears, for the
+causes of the prevailing distresses of the land; and while it is
+apparent, that pristine piety and purity of morals, have given place to
+infidelity, dissipation, luxury, and gross corruption of mind and
+morals, there is a loud call for humility, lamentings and reformation;
+and it is at this time eminently incumbent on one and all, to seek at
+the throne of the great God for those special and remarkable
+interpositions of divine Providence, grace and mercy, which have so
+ofter saved New-England from both public and private distress and
+misery: and as there is great reason to believe, that in past times we
+have too much depended upon the exertions of worldly wisdom and
+political devices, it becomes us in our present melancholy situation to
+rely no longer on an arm of flesh, but on the arms of that all-powerful
+God, who is able to unite the numerous inhabitants of this extensive
+territory, as a band of brothers in one common cause—who can easily give
+that true religion, which shall make us his people indeed; that spirit,
+which shall fit us to endure temporal hardships for the procurement of
+future happiness; that spirit of valor and irresistable courage, which
+shall occasion our aged and our youth to jeopard their lives with joy,
+in the high places of the field, for his name and service sake, for the
+preservation also of this goodly heritage of our fathers, for the sake
+of the living children of our loins, and the unborn millions of
+posterity.
+
+* We believe that there are very many, who in these days have kept their
+integrity and garments unspotted, and hope that God will deliver them
+and our nation for their sake. God will not suffer this land where the
+gospel hath flourished, to become a slave of the world; he will stir up
+witnesses of the truth; and in his own time, spirit his people to stand
+up for his cause, and deliver them. In a similar belief, that patriot of
+patriots, the great _Algernon Sidney_, lived and died, and dying
+breathed a like sentiment and prophecy, touching his own and the then
+approaching times, a prophecy, however, not accomplished until a
+glorious revolution.
+
+Approved of by vote of the town, without contradiction.
+
+                                                SYLVANUS HOW, per order.
+
+
+The govornor, instead of overlooking in his speech, the proceedings of
+the towns, has been induced by them to broach the dispute about the
+supremacy of the parliament; and has fallen into the snare which
+probably some of the politicians had laid for him, expecting to get the
+majority of the general court to declare against it. He designed to
+recommend himself to the ministry by obtaining a victory: but they will
+not thank him for increasing their embarrassments.
+
+[Jan. 25.] The council in their answer, said “The stamp act, with some
+preceding and succeeding acts of parliament, subjecting the colonies to
+taxes without their consent, was the original cause of all the
+uneasiness that has happened since, and has occasioned also an inquiry
+into the nature and extent of the authority by which they were made.”
+
+This was the truth. When the stamp act took place, “some people, under
+the notion of zeal for liberty, ran into the most excessive
+licentiousness, and were guilty in one place and another of the most
+lawless, unjust, and tyrannical proceedings; such as pulling down and
+destroying houses, abusing persons, endangering men’s lives, destroying
+their property, breaking windows, delivering prisoners out of the hands
+of justice, putting many into great fear, all contrary to the laws of
+the province: but there was nothing of this kind before.”[107] Let me
+add, that in all my researches not an instance has occurred to me of the
+mob’s having been the death of a single individual, though they might
+have proceeded to the most criminal lengths also, had they not been
+gratified or diverted from their pursuits. But before that fatal act,
+there was not a more loyal, orderly, and peaceable people than the
+Americans in general through the whole British empire. All ranks and
+conditions gloried in their connection with Great-Britain; rejoiced in
+her friendship and protection; and triumphed in her prosperity.
+
+Toward the close of their answer, the house of assembly expressed a
+concern at their having been reduced by the speech to the unhappy
+alternative, either of appearing by their silence to acquiesce in the
+governor’s sentiments as to the supremacy of parliament, or of freely
+discussing the point. The house might be concerned, but the leaders were
+pleased with the opportunity. The governor replied; and the house in
+their rejoinder told him “Although the colony may have submitted _sub
+silentio_ to some acts of parliament, that they conceived might operate
+for their benefit, they did not conceive themselves bound by any of its
+acts which they judged would operate to the injury of individuals.” The
+people at large believe, that the house has the best of the argument,
+and are confirmed in their opposition to the claims of parliament.
+
+The house voted the usual salaries to the judges of the superior court
+early in the session. The governor delayed giving his assent to the
+grants; which produced a message to him, requesting his making known the
+difficulty that prevented his assenting; to this it was answered, that
+he had received information, that his majesty had been pleased to order
+salaries to be allowed to the justices of the superior courts, &c. By
+this answer the house gained the opportunity of sending a second
+message, [Feb.] in which they expressed their resentment at the many
+attempts made, effectually to render null and void those clauses in
+their charter upon which the freedom of their constitution depends; and
+said that they were more and more convinced, that it had been the design
+of administration to introduce an arbitrary government into the
+province. They declared at the close, their impatience to know, “that
+the justices will utterly refuse ever to accept of support in a manner
+so justly obnoxious to the people of the province, it being repugnant to
+the charter, and utterly inconsistent with the safety of the rights,
+liberties, and properties of the people.” To add the greater weight to
+their sentiments, and make them the more regarded by all persons, they
+come to several resolves [March 3.] respecting the salaries and the
+judges; among the rest, “that their dependence on the crown, especially
+while they held their commissions during pleasure, tends to the
+subversion of justice and equity, and to introduce oppression and
+despotic power; and that while they hold during pleasure, any who shall
+accept of and depend upon the pleasure of the crown for his support,
+independent of the grants of the general court, will discover that he is
+an enemy to the constitution, and has it in his heart to promote the
+establishment of an arbitrary government in the province.”
+
+The measures pursued on each side the Atlantic are not calculated to
+promote harmony.
+
+
+
+
+                               LETTER VI.
+
+
+                                               _London, August 7, 1773._
+
+  FRIEND G.
+
+You will receive from me without further application, regular accounts
+of what is doing on this side the Atlantic, in relation to the colonies.
+
+The burning of the _Gaspee_ schooner near Providence, has given the
+chief rise to “an act for the better securing his majesty’s dock yards,
+magazines, ships, ammunition and stores.” If the button of a marine’s
+coat, the oar of a cutter’s boat, or the head of a cask belonging to the
+fleet, are included under the comprehensive term _stores_, then
+according to the act, a person wilfully and maliciously destroying, or
+aiding and assisting in destroying the same, is to suffer death on being
+convicted. But what will affect you more than all the rest is that the
+act is extended to the colonies, and subjects a person to a trial at the
+pleasure of his majesty, his heirs or successors, in any shire or county
+in Great-Britain. Your own feelings will furnish you with the best
+comment on this new extension of parliamentary power.
+
+The supporting of the authority of parliament was the only cause
+assigned by the minister himself, for retaining the tea-duty, at the
+very time when he acknowledged it to be as anti-commercial a tax, as any
+of those which he had repealed upon that principle. It now appears that
+government had something more in contemplation.
+
+The East-India Company, feeling the bad effects of the colonial
+smuggling trade, (occasioned by the retention of the duty) in the large
+quantities of tea which remained in their warehouses unsold, requested
+the repeal of the three-pence per pound in America, and offered that,
+upon its being complied with, government should retain six-pence in the
+pound on the exportation. Thus the company presented the happiest
+opportunity which could have offered, for honorably removing the cause
+of difference with America. Here was an opening for doing right, without
+infringing the claims on either side. The company asked, and their
+situation required relief. It could not be alledged, that it was done at
+the instance of American discontent. The minister was requested and
+intreated, by a gentleman of great weight in the company, and a member
+of parliament, to embrace the opportunity; but it has been rejected. New
+contrivances have been set on foot to introduce the tea, attended with
+the three-penny duty into all the colonies. Various intrigues and
+solicitations have been used to induce the chairman and deputy chairman,
+to undertake this rash and foolish business. It has been protested
+against as contrary to the principles of the company’s monopoly; but the
+power of ministry has prevailed; and the insignificant three-penny duty
+on tea, is doomed to be the fatal bone of contention between
+Great-Britain and America. A bill has been passed into an act, [May 10.]
+for enabling the company to export their own teas. In consequence of it
+they have adopted the system, and are become their own factors. They
+have come to a resolution of sending 600 chests of tea to
+_Philadelphia_, the like quantity to _New-York_ and _Boston_, beside
+what is designed for other places; several ships are accordingly
+freighted for different colonies, and agents appointed for the disposal
+of the commodity.
+
+The several colonies will undoubtedly consider the scheme as calculated
+merely to circumvent them into a compliance with the revenue law, and
+thereby to open the door for an unlimited taxation; for if taxation can
+be established in this instance, it will be extended to others.
+Consequences will not fail to convince the minister, that it would have
+been far more eligible to have repealed the duty, than in this way to
+attempt its establishment. It will be needless for me to assure you,
+that you may upon all occasions command the assistance of
+
+                                                               Your, &c.
+
+N. B. Some of the captains have refused to take the tea on board.
+
+
+
+
+                              LETTER VII.
+
+
+                                              _Roxbury, March 28, 1774._
+
+Before you have an account of the American proceedings in respect to the
+teas of the East-India Company, you must be presented with some matters
+of an earlier date.
+
+[May 14, 1773.] The Bostonians persisted in discovering on every
+occasion, a determined opposition to ministerial measures. Twelve days
+before the election day, the town resolved, “That if the council apply
+for Faneuil-hall for to dine in on the anniversary election day, the
+select men should not grant it but upon the express conditions that
+neither the commissioners of the customs, nor their attendants, nor the
+officers of the army and navy, stationed here for the purpose of
+enforcing unconstitutional acts of parliament by military execution, be
+invited.” It has been an established custom for the governor, council,
+and many other gentlemen, to dine there on that day; but the resolve
+prevented an application, and occasioned their dining elsewhere, with
+the commissioners and officers.
+
+Whether the votes of _Boston_, sent to _Virginia_, as the patriots say,
+or their own private letters might or might not lead to it, the house of
+burgesses resolved, in the beginning of March, to maintain an
+intercourse with the sister colonies. They therefore appointed a
+committee of eleven persons, “whose business it should be to obtain the
+most early and authentic intelligence of all such acts and resolutions
+of the British parliament, or proceedings of administration, as may
+relate to or affect the British colonies, and to keep up and maintain a
+correspondence and communication with their sister colonies.” They then
+resolved, “That their speaker transmit to the speakers of the different
+assemblies their resolutions, to be laid before their assemblies, and
+requesting their appointing committees.” Nothing could be more
+acceptable to the _Massachusetts_ assembly. It was the first particular
+business they entered upon when they met. [May 28.] They came to several
+resolves, and were careful in the first to speak highly in praise of
+_Virginia_. They appointed a committee of fifteen members, and directed
+them “to prepare a circular letter to the speakers, requesting them to
+lay the same before their respective assemblies, in confidence that they
+will comply with the wise and salutary resolves of the house of
+burgesses of _Virginia_.” _Connecticut_, _Rhode-Island_, _Maryland_, and
+_New-Hampshire_, entered into similar measures; but the answer ordered
+by the _New-Hampshire_ assembly, to be given to the speakers of
+_Virginia_ and _Rhode-Island_, was guardedly expressed; they gave
+assurance that their sister colonies might rely upon their sincerely
+joining them in every constitutional plan for securing the rights of
+America. The institution of these committees tends greatly to unite the
+colonies, and to render them more alert and formidable in resisting the
+encroachments of ministry. They by this mean become early prepared to
+meet new and unexpected occurrences; and are drawn in to look upon
+themselves as jointly interested in each others safety and public
+concerns.
+
+An event has happened in the _Massachusetts_, which has excited on the
+part of the people, the utmost indignation and animosity; on the side of
+the governor and other, the greatest confusion.
+
+The agent, Dr. _Franklin_, has by some means yet unknown, obtained and
+sent over to Mr. Bowdoin, a number of letters, to be communicated by
+him, after perusal, to a few trusty gentlemen, viz. the honorable James
+Pitts, Mr. Thomas Cushing, Mr. Samuel Adams, Dr. Winthrop, Dr. Chauncey,
+and Dr. Cooper: it is added, they are to be returned and put into the
+place whence they were taken. The letters are signed _Tho. Hutchinson_,
+_And. Oliver_, _Ch. Paxton_, _Thomas Moffat_, _Robert Achmuty_, _Nath.
+Rogers_, _George Rome_. Though they were partly private and
+confidential, they were designed to procure public coercive measures;
+and tended to incense the mother country against her colonies, and by
+the steps recommended, to widen the breach, which they have undoubtedly
+effected. Their contents were the subject of conversation and solicitous
+enquiry; till at length Mr. _Sam. Adams_ acquainted the assembly [June
+2.] that he had perceived the minds of the people to be greatly agitated
+with a prevailing report, that letters of an extraordinary nature had
+been written and sent to England, greatly to the prejudice of this
+province—that he had obtained certain letters, which with the consent of
+the gentleman from whom he had received them, might be read in the house
+under certain restrictions, namely, that the said letters be neither
+printed nor copied in whole or in part; the proposal was considered, and
+they were read under the said restrictions. A committee of the whole
+house afterward reported, “that the tendency and design of said letters
+was to overthrow the constitution of this government, and to introduce
+arbitrary power into the province.”—Yeas 101—Nays 5.
+
+The restrictions under which the letters were communicated, were
+invalidated by contrivance; and in a week’s time [June 9.] Mr. _Hancock_
+acquainted the house that he had received copies of certain letters,
+which he supposed were copies of the letters before the house, and moved
+that they might be compared. The next day [June 10.] one of a committee
+appointed to consider some means whereby the house might be honorably
+and fully possessed of the letters, reported, “That Mr. S. Adams had
+acquainted him, that having conversed with the gentleman from whom he
+received the letters, he was authorised to inform the house, that the
+said gentleman consented (as he found that copies of said letters were
+already abroad, and had been publicly read) that the house should be
+fully possessed of them, to print, copy, or make what use of them they
+pleased, relying on the goodness of the house, that the original letters
+be returned, they retaining attested copies for their use.” Mr. S. Adams
+being called upon, declared the same. [June 16.] At length the assembly
+resolved to petition the king to remove governor _Hutchinson_ and
+lieutenant governor _Oliver_ for ever from the government of the
+province. [June 22.] They agreed also to furnish the council with the
+original letters upon the express condition, that the board would by no
+means suffer them to go out of their hands. The council complied with
+the insulting stipulation aimed at the governor; and upon his requiring
+the letters for examination, refused to deliver them into his hands, but
+sent a committee to open them before him, that he might examine the hand
+writing. [June 24.] To this indignity he was obliged to submit, as well
+as to the mortification of acknowledging the signature. After which they
+resolved, “that the removal of the governor and lieutenant governor will
+be promotive of his majesty’s service.”
+
+The _Boston_ committee of correspondence, that they might add weight to
+the doings of the general court, enclosed the governor’s letters and
+also the resolves of the house, in a spirited circular letter, and sent
+them to the several town clerks through the province, to be communicated
+to their respective towns.
+
+The house of assembly in their petition and remonstrance to his majesty,
+charged the governor and lieutenant governor with being betrayers of
+their trusts and of the people they governed, and with giving private,
+partial, and false information; declared them enemies to the colony; and
+prayed for justice against them, and for their speedy removal. So
+prevalent was the resentment, that these charges, with many others, were
+carried through by a majority of 82 to 12.
+
+To enter now upon the subject of the TEA. While the bill for allowing
+the East-India Company to export it, was in parliament, letters from
+Britain insinuated into the minds of the colonists, that a plan was laid
+to bring them into a snare; that a noble resistance on this occasion,
+would free them from the slavery intended for them; that if this
+opportunity was lost they never would have another; and that if they
+suffered the ships to land the tea, and the duty to be paid, they would
+rivet their own chains. The British merchants have been alarmed with the
+thought of the losses which must necessarily accrue to themselves from
+the exportations of the company, and from the sales going through the
+hands of consignees; and have contributed to the strengthening of that
+resistance to which the people were already inclined; through their
+prevailing jealousy at the reservation of the tea duty when the other
+duties were repealed. The united opposition of the colonies was to be
+secured; but the event was precarious. The _Bostonians_ were much
+suspected by the sons of liberty in the other provinces, on account of
+the many goods which were imported into the town during the general
+non-importation agreement, and agreement of the teas contrary to the
+agreement respecting that article. _New-York_ and _Philadelphia_ had
+kept to the agreement, and had run all the teas that the market
+demanded; but there had been imported into _Boston_, from the beginning
+of 1768 to the end of last year, not less than 2714 chests, by more than
+a hundred different persons. Mr. Hutchinson and his sons were
+considerable importers. It was evident that the body of merchants could
+not be depended upon. Mr. _Thomas Mifflin_, of Philadelphia, being at
+Boston, put it therefore to the sons of liberty, when the teas were
+expected, “Will you engage that they shall not be landed? If so, I will
+answer for Philadelphia.”—They pledged their honor.
+
+[Oct. 2.] The inhabitants of _Philadelphia_ assembled, and unanimously
+entered into various resolves, in which they censured the resolution of
+the East-India Company to send out their tea to America, subject to the
+payment of duties on its being landed, as an open attempt to enforce the
+ministerial plan, and a violent attack upon the liberties of America;
+and declared it to be the duty of every American to oppose this attempt,
+and that whoever should directly or indirectly countenance it, was an
+enemy to his country. They then fixed upon a committee to wait on the
+gentlemen, reported to be appointed to receive and sell the tea, and to
+request their resigning. Within three days the whole number resigned;
+Messrs. _Whartons_ and _Brown_, without making the least difficulty; the
+other two, not till the treatment they met with (on appearing at the
+coffee-house) for the shuffling answer they had given, convinced them
+that it was not safe trifling with the public opinion. Since this
+meeting, the Boston sons of liberty have assured by letter the sons of
+liberty at Philadelphia, that no tea shall be landed.
+
+At _New-York_, when captain _Sears_ and captain _M‘Dougall_ heard that
+the tea was to be sent, they concluded that an opposition to it was
+necessary, and agreed upon contriving to unite the tea-smugglers, the
+merchants, and the sons of liberty in that service; and that captain
+_M‘Dougall_ should write against the design of introducing and vending
+the tea agreeable to the ministerial plan, but should remain concealed
+as the author. A few of each class were called together, and the mode of
+opposition settled. Publications, tending to spread and increase the
+alarm of imminent danger to the liberties of the country, appeared
+periodically. As the time approached for the arrival of the tea ships,
+the publications became more spirited and threatening. [Nov. 5.] An
+hand-bill addressed to the friends of liberty and commerce was
+circulated through the city, calculated to provoke resentment against
+all the encouragers of the tea plan. Afterward written papers were stuck
+up at the coffee-house and other places [Nov. 8.] menacing destruction
+to any person who should accept a commission for the sale of the
+_East-India_ Company’s teas, or be an accessory. In rather more than a
+week, there was published [Nov. 18.] a paper signed _Legion_, addressed
+to the stated pilots of the port, and all others whom it might concern,
+directing them how to proceed in reference to any tea-ship, and
+requiring them, at their peril, to bring her no farther than the Hook.
+In another paper, signed the _Mohawks_, the tea-ship is said to be laden
+with fetters, forged for them in Great-Britain, and every vengeance is
+denounced against all persons, who dare in any manner to contribute to
+the introduction of these chains. In December, the _London_, captain
+_Chambers_, and the tea ship arrived on the same day; the former came up
+directly to the wharf, the other remained at the _Hook_, and was watched
+till she returned, by a vessel stationed there for the purpose. On her
+arrival a committee waited on the consignees, who, agreeable to a former
+promise, assured them that they would neither receive nor sell the tea,
+as it came liable to an _American duty_. Captain Chambers ventured to
+bring seventeen chests on a private account, which were taken and thrown
+overboard into the harbor. Had the company’s ship come to the wharf, she
+would probably have been burnt, for captain _Sears_ and five others had
+determined upon it, and provided themselves with combustibles for that
+purpose.
+
+At _Philadelphia_, printed papers were dispersed, warning the _Delaware_
+pilots not to conduct any of the tea ships into harbor, as they were
+only sent for the purpose of enslaving and poisoning all the Americans;
+and at the same time plainly intimating, that it was expected they would
+apply their knowledge of the river, under the colour of their
+profession, so as effectually to secure their country from such an
+imminent danger.
+
+In most places the consignees were obliged to relinquish their
+appointments, and to enter into engagements not to act in that capacity,
+and no other persons daring to receive the cargoes consigned to them,
+the captains of the New-York and Philadelphia ships, from these
+circumstances, and the knowledge of the risk they ran from the
+determined resolution of the people, concluded upon returning directly
+to Great-Britain, without entangling themselves by any entry at the
+custom-houses. But it was otherwise in the _Massachusetts_.
+
+Methods were taken to spirit up the people at large by fugitive pieces,
+hand-bills, resolves of town-meetings, the mutual intercourse of
+committees, and the like. [Nov. 3.] At length some hundreds of the
+inhabitants of _Boston_ and the neighboring towns, meet at
+_Liberty-tree_, agreeable to a notification issued the day before, “for
+to hear the consignees resign and swear, that they will re-ship any
+teas, that may by the _East-India_ Company be assigned to them.” The
+consignees are in general obnoxious to the public by reason of their
+near and intimate connections with the governor, on whose support they
+depend. They are not terrified into an appearance at the place proposed;
+but meet together by agreement at the store of Mr. _Clark_, who is one
+of them, in King-street. A committee is appointed by the assembly to
+wait upon them with a message, to which they pay no regard. The people,
+who attend the committee as spectators, upon this force open the doors
+of the ware-house, and enter with great violence; and then attempt
+getting up stairs into the compting-house but are driven back. [Nov. 5.]
+The sons of liberty not having succeeded in this procedure, a
+town-meeting of the freeholders and other inhabitants is called. A large
+number is collected; and it is agreed to adopt the resolves of the
+citizens of Philadelphia. A committee is chosen to wait upon the
+consignees, who decline complying with the request of the town by
+letters, which tho’ decent, are the next day voted daringly affronting,
+when the meeting is immediately dissolved. Some of the sons of liberty
+are fearful of pushing the matter too far, lest the town, and then the
+colony, should be drawn into a quarrel with Great-Britain. To such it is
+said, “It must come to a quarrel with Great-Britain and the colony,
+sooner or later; and if so, what can be a better time than the present?
+Hundreds of years may pass away before the parliament will make such a
+number of acts in violation of the British constitution as it has done
+of late years, and by which is has excited so formidable an opposition
+to the measures of ministry. Beside, the longer the contest is delayed,
+the more administration will be strengthened. Do not you observe, how
+the government at home are increasing their party here, by sending over
+young fellows to enjoy appointments, who marry into our first families,
+and so weaken the opposition? By such like means, and by multiplying
+posts and places, and giving them to their own friends, or applying them
+to the corruption of their antagonists, they will increase their own
+force faster in proportion, than the force of the country party will
+increase by population. If then we must quarrel before we can have our
+rights secured, now is the most eligible period. Our credit also is at
+stake; we must venture; and unless we do, we shall be discarded by the
+sons of liberty in the other colonies, whose assistance we may expect
+upon emergencies, in case they find us steady, resolute and faithful.”
+They conclude to venture onward.
+
+[Nov. 18.] A new town-meeting is called, and a new committee appointed
+to wait upon the consignees, to know whether they will resign their
+appointment; to which they answer, “It is out of our power to comply
+with the request of the town.” This answer may be built upon solemn
+engagements not to resign; otherwise it is hard to conceive how it
+should be more out of their power, than the power of the Philadelphia
+consignees, who have resigned six weeks ago. It is a managed affair
+between them and the governor, who calls a council for advice [Nov. 19.]
+upon measures proper for preserving the peace, and for supporting the
+authority of government. While the council are debating a petition of
+the consignees is presented, praying leave to resign themselves and the
+property committed to them, to his excellency and their honors as the
+guardians of the people. After debate, the further consideration is
+postponed to the 23d, then to the 27th, then to the 29th, when the
+council make a few observations, decline complying with the petition,
+and advise his excellency to renew his orders to the justices and
+others, to exert themselves for the security of his majesty’s subjects,
+the preservation of peace and good order, and for preventing all
+offences against the law. About this time the consignees, consisting of
+the governor’s sons, cousins, and particular friends, remove to the
+castle for personal safety. The day before the last meeting of the
+council, captain _Hall_ in the _Dartmouth_, came to an anchor near the
+castle, having on board one hundred and fourteen chests of tea; and on
+the day of their meeting comes into the harbour. On the same day a
+notification is posted up in all parts of the town, inviting every
+friend to his country to meet at nine o’clock to make united resistance
+to the most destructive measures of administration. The Meeting of the
+people at Boston and the neighbouring towns, is continued by adjournment
+to the next day, [Nov. 30.] when it is determined that the tea shall be
+returned. Faneuil-hall being too small for the assembly, they adjourn to
+the Old South Meeting-house, and confirm the former determination by
+voting, “that the tea shall not be landed, that no duty shall be paid,
+and that it shall be sent back in the same bottom.” They further vote,
+“that Mr. _Rotch_, the owner of the vessel, be directed not to enter the
+tea at his peril, and that captain _Hall_ be informed, and at his peril
+not to suffer any of the tea to be landed.” They also appoint a watch of
+twenty-five men to be a guard upon the Dartmouth, lying at _Griffin’s_
+wharf. A letter is received from the consignees, offering to store the
+teas till they can write and receive further orders; but the proposal is
+rejected. Mr. _Greenleaf_, the sheriff, appears and begs leave to read a
+proclamation from the governor, which requires the people forthwith to
+disperse and to surcease all further proceedings. He is allowed to do
+it; and, upon finishing, there is a loud and general hiss. The people
+afterward vote, “that captain _Bruce_, on his arrival do conform to the
+votes respecting Hall’s vessel; that no tea from Great-Britain be landed
+or sold till the act imposing the duty is repealed; that the captain of
+the present watch be desired to make out a list for the next night, and
+so on, until the vessels leave the harbor; that should the watch be
+molested, that the inhabitants be alarmed by the tolling of the bells at
+night, and the righing of them in the day; that six persons be appointed
+to give notice to the country towns, upon any important occasion; that
+every vessel arriving with tea have a proper watch, and that their
+brethen in the country be desired to afford their assistance on the
+first notice.” They determine to carry their votes and resolves into
+execution at the risk of life and property; thank their brethren in the
+neighbouring towns, and then dissolve the meeting.
+
+After the dissolution, the committee of correspondence for the town of
+Boston held their meetings, and invite the like committees of the
+adjacent towns to join them; several do it; the whole jointly assume the
+direction of all that relates to the teas of the East-India Company.
+They keep a constant military watch of twenty-five men every night,
+generally with fire arms, to prevent the tea being privately landed. The
+vessels belonging to captains _Bruce_ and _Coffin_, are upon their
+arrival ordered to Griffin’s wharf.
+
+[Dec. 14.] The people of Boston and the neighboring towns, that have
+agreed to act in concert with Boston, meet at the Old South
+Meeting-house, and conclude upon ordering Mr. _Rotch_ to apply
+immediately for a clearance for his ship. Meanwhile the governor
+receiving intimation that she would be sent to sea, and that it might
+not be through the ordinary channel by the castle, acquaints admiral
+_Montague_, and desires him to take the proper precautions, on which the
+admiral orders the Active and King Fisher to be fitted for sea, and to
+fall down and guard the passages out of the harbour. The governor
+likewise renews in writing his orders to colonel _Leslie_, to suffer no
+vessel, coasters excepted, to pass the fortress from the town without a
+permit signed by himself. A sufficient number of guns are loaded on this
+special occasion.
+
+The assembly are acquainted, that the collector cannot give Mr. _Rotch_
+a clearance, until the vessel is discharged of dutiable articles. [Nov.
+16.] Mr. _Samuel Philips Savage_, of _Weston_, is chosen moderator. The
+number assembled from town and country is thought to be some thousands.
+Upon the present crisis several gentlemen deliver their sentiments; and
+Mr. _Josiah Quincy_, jun. his to the following purpose;—“It is not, Mr.
+Moderator, the spirit that vapors within these walls that must stand us
+in stead. The exertions of this day will call forth events, which will
+make a very different spirit necessary for our salvation.—Whoever
+supposes, that shouts and hosannas will terminate the trials of the day,
+entertains a childish fancy. We must be grossly ignorant of the
+importance and value of the prize for which we contend; we must be
+equally ignorant of the power of those who have combined against us; we
+must be blind to that malice, inveteracy, and insatiable revenge, which
+actuate our enemies public and private, abroad and in our bosom, to hope
+that we shall end this controversy without the sharpest, the sharpest
+conflicts——to flatter ourselves that popular resolves, popular harangues,
+popular acclamations, and popular vapor, will vanquish our foes. Let us
+consider the issue. Let us look to the end.—Let us weigh and consider,
+before we advance to those measures which must bring on the most trying
+and terrible struggle this country ever saw.”
+
+About three o’clock in the afternoon the question is put, “Will you
+abide by your former resolution with respect to not suffering the tea to
+be landed?” It passes in the affirmative, _nem. con._
+
+Mr. _Rotch_ is ordered to make a protest, and procure a pass for his
+vessel. He waits upon the governor at Milton, who offers to give him a
+letter to the admiral for protection, which he declines, fearing in that
+case the rage of the people, and being in no concern about his ship, as
+that is not the object of resentment, but the tea. He intimates to the
+governor, that some of the leaders of the people wish the ship to go
+down and be stopped at the castle, “for then they will be rid of the
+affair, and may say they have done all in their power.” While Mr. Rotch
+is absent, the speakers in the meeting keep the people together by
+engaging their attention till he returns, which is before six o’clock,
+when he informs the body, that upon applying to the governor for a pass,
+he received for answer, “I cannot give you a pass consistent with the
+laws and my duty to my king, unless the vessel is properly qualified
+from the custom-house.”—Upon this there is a great deal of disputing,
+when a person disguised like an Indian, gives the war-whoop in the front
+gallery, where there are few if any besides himself. Upon this signal it
+is moved and voted that the meeting be immediately dissolved.—The people
+crowd out and run in numbers to Griffin’s wharf. At the same instant a
+number of persons, chiefly masters of vessels and ship-builders from the
+north end of the town, about seventeen, though judged to be many more as
+they run along, cross Fort Hill, dressed as Indians, and repair to the
+tea ships; and in about two hours hoist out of them and break open 342
+chests of tea, and discharge their contents into the salt water. They
+are not in the least molested. The multitude of spectators upon and
+about the wharf, serve as a covering party. The whole business is
+conducted with very little tumult, and no damage done to the vessels or
+any other property; when finished, the people return quietly to their
+own towns and habitations.
+
+Prior to the destruction of the tea, captain _Loring_ in a brig, being
+the fourth and last vessel on the East-India Company’s account, was cast
+ashore at Cape-Cod; and what tea was saved has been conveyed to the
+castle.
+
+The arrival of the tea ships first at Boston, the consignees refusing to
+resign, though they had the example of others to induce them, and the
+governor’s resolution to pay no regard to the voice of the public,
+brought on the destruction of the tea. The sons of liberty were
+sensible, that if it was landed and stored, it would some how or other
+obtain a sale; and that the virtue of the people, to decline buying and
+using a commodity to which they were so attached from love and habit,
+was too precarious a ground on which to risk the salvation of their
+country. They have been obliged, but with the utmost reluctance, to
+venture upon a desperate remedy. Many of their friends, who are not
+acquainted with circumstances, or do not attend to them, may be ready to
+censure them severely. But had the tea been landed, the union of the
+colonies in opposing the ministerial schemes would have been dissolved;
+and it would have been extremely difficult ever after to have restored
+it. The fulfilment of their solemn declaration, that the tea should not
+be landed, though in a way which would not have been chosen had any
+other effectual one offered, has secured them the good opinion and
+confidence of their co-patriots in other parts. The governor has that
+influence with the consignees, that he could undoubtedly have prevailed
+on them to resign; but he has encouraged them to the contrary; and
+therefore what he has written, “It has been absolutely out of my power
+to prevent the destruction of the tea, without conceding to the
+unreasonable demands of a lawless set of men, and thereby giving
+government up and rendering myself obnoxious to my sovereign,” will
+scarce be admitted as a sufficient justification. Sovereigns themselves,
+upon special emergencies, wisely give place to the opinions and wishes
+of their subjects; but are often disgraced and forced into difficulties,
+through the want of like wisdom in their representatives. Had the
+governor given a pass for the ship in the present instance, he would not
+have been viewed by considerate persons as breaking either the laws or
+his oath. Cases offer, when statute laws and oaths of office are
+required to give place to the supreme law of society, the safety of the
+community. Had he looked back to the time of the stamp act, he would
+probably have found many precedents of ships having permits from his
+predecessor in office, Sir Francis Bernard, to pass the castle without
+being duly qualified for want of stamps; and yet the granting them did
+not render Sir Francis obnoxious to his sovereign.—But the truth was,
+Mr. _Hutchinson_ had repeatedly urged government at home to be firm and
+persevering; this was a favorite topic on which he was often insisting;
+he himself therefore could not think of yielding; and then he would not
+believe that the people were determined at all adventures to perfect
+their engagements; but expected that when the critical moment came, they
+would desist. Whereas when that moment came, and the tea on board the
+Dartmouth, captain Hall was in danger of being seized and secured by the
+custom-house officers, who might have been supported by admiral
+Montague, the sons of liberty projected the destruction of it in the
+manner above related: and in order to make short work of the whole
+business, and prevent their repeating the preceding formalities, they
+did not confine their operations to the tea on board the Dartmouth, but
+extended them to the teas brought in afterward by captains Bruce and
+Coffin.
+
+Some expected that the destruction of the tea will issue in the
+destruction of the charter, which will make the inhabitants of the
+colony furious beyond expression. One gentleman, apprehensive of the
+fatal consequences that will follow upon the parliament’s meddling with
+the charter, the great darling of the people, has written freely and
+fully upon the subject to his correspondent, an influential member in
+the house. Another, being desirous of learning the real sentiments of
+the more moderate party, and of such as have not plunged themselves into
+the politics of the day, has conversed with several of them; but has
+discovered in them the warmest indignation and the highest resentment at
+the thought of being deprived of their charter. A major in the militia
+(whom Mr. Hutchinson honored with the commission, for his good conduct
+as foreman of the jury on the trial of the soldiers for killing the
+persons on the 5th of March, 1770) told him, “Sir, you know that I am a
+friend to government, and wish to support it; but if there is an attempt
+to take away our charter, I will fight up to my knees in blood in
+defence of it.” The gentleman has perceived such a spirit to predominate
+among all the people, that he has judged it right to communicate his
+knowledge to Sir Francis Bernard, and to acquaint with his apprehensions
+as to the fatal consequences which will follow upon the adoption of
+violent measures. He has written also to another friend upon the
+subject, in hope that the intelligence will get to the ministry, and
+prove beneficial to the public by preventing harsh proceedings. At
+Charleston the Carolinians have unloaded the tea, and stored it in
+cellars, where it cannot be used, and where it will finally perish.
+
+Let me pass from hence to relate the doings of the Massachusetts
+assembly respecting the judges, which you will probably pronounce
+intemperate.
+
+The house being informed, that each of the judges refused to take more
+than one half of the sum granted them the last year, which they
+considered as implying on the part of the judges, a determination to
+accept of their support from the crown, resolved, “That it is the
+incumbent duty of the judges explicitly to declare, whether they are
+determined to receive the grants of the general assemble, or to accept
+of their support from the crown; and their delaying any longer to let
+the public know their determination, will discover that they have little
+or no regard for the peace and welfare of the province; and in such case
+it will be the indispensable duty of the commons of this province, to
+impeach them before the governor and council. Four of the judges, in the
+beginning of February, 1774, acquainted the house they had received
+their whole salary granted them by the general court, and not any part
+of the grant made by the crown, and that they were determined still to
+receive the grants of the general assembly, which was pronounced
+satisfactory. But the chief justice, Peter Oliver, esq. sent them a
+letter [Feb. 3.] informing them, That since being upon the bench
+seventeen years, he had suffered above three thousand pounds sterling;
+that he had been encouraged not to resign with the hope of a support,
+but never had been relieved; that he had taken his majesty’s grant from
+the 5th of July, 1772, to the 5th of January, 1774, and that without his
+majesty’s leave he dare not refuse it.
+
+[Feb. 11.] The house resolved, “That Peter Oliver hath, by his conduct
+proved himself an enemy to the constitution of this province, and is
+become justly obnoxious to the good people of it; that he ought to be
+removed from the office of chief justice; and that a remonstrance and
+petition to the governor and council for his immediate removal be
+prepared”—yeas 96—nays 9.
+
+[Feb. 24.] The house prepared to exhibit articles of impeachment, in
+their own name, and the name of all the inhabitants of the province,
+against the chief justice. His excellency excepted to the proceedings of
+the house as unconstitutional; for which reason he could not give them
+any countenance.
+
+[March 1.] They prepared articles of high crimes and misdemeanors
+against the chief justice, to present to his excellency and the council,
+in which they said, “The salary, and hopes of augmentation must have the
+effect of a continual bribe, and expose him to a violation of his oath.
+His accepting hath betrayed the baseness of his heart and the lust
+covetousness, in breach of his engagements to rely solely on the grants
+of the assembly, necessarily implied and involved in his accepting said
+office. By receiving a grant out of the revenue unjustly extorted from
+the American colonies, he hath as far as lay in his power, put a
+sanction on, and established the said revenue, counteracted the
+reasonable petitions of the people to his majesty, and in defiance of
+the known sense of the body of this people, hath wickedly endeavoured to
+increase the discontent and jealousies of this people and the grievance
+aforementioned.”
+
+[March 9.] It was resolved, “That the house have done all that in the
+capacity of representatives can be done for the removal of Peter Oliver;
+and it must be presumed, that the governor’s refusing to take any
+measure therein, is because he also receives his support from the
+crown.”
+
+It is not to be thought, that the leading gentlemen in these proceedings
+expected to obtain the removal of the chief justice; but by the help of
+them, they rendered him and the governor more and more obnoxious to the
+body of the people; added to the dignity and importance of the house in
+the eyes of the representatives, by placing them upon an apparent level
+with the house of commons in Britain; and preservd the general animosity
+against ministerial measures from falling into a decline.
+
+The real, genuine sentiments of the professed patriots may be desired;
+let me therefore mention, that these are divided in wish and opinion.
+The great body of them through the several colonies, and even in this,
+aim at no more than the removal of all the innovations since the
+expiration of the war. They want to have matters revert back to the
+state in which they were when the peace commenced, and to be fixed in
+that state. They wish most ardently to continue in union with
+Great-Britain; and abhor the thought of a separation. They judge that it
+would be neither safe not beneficial; that it is infinitely more
+eligible to have the protection of the mother country, and to remain
+under her shadow; and that no greater happiness can be enjoyed by them,
+than a thorough restoration of harmony and affection between them and
+the parent state, so as to obliterate the remembrance of all past
+animosity. But there are a few in this colony who hanker after
+independency, and will be likely to bend their whole influence for the
+obtaining of it, whenever there is the least opening to encourage their
+efforts. At the head of these we must place Mr. _Samuel Adams_ who has
+long since said in small confidential companies—“The country shall be
+independent, and we will be satisfied with nothing short of it.” At one
+time his influence was small, owing to defects in pecuniary matters,
+especially as collector of the taxes for Boston, in which office he
+served for years. He was accountable to the town for between one and two
+thousand pounds; but a great part of it had never been gathered. What
+with not pressing the payment of the taxes in time, as is too generally
+the case; not calling when the money happened to be ready and other
+casualties, no inconsiderable sum was lost. His necessities probably
+(for he appears to be addicted to no extravagances) urged him to supply
+himself, time after time, from the cash in hand, without attending to
+the accumulation of the balance against him till called upon to settle.
+The town had several meetings upon the business; at length, by the
+exertion of his friends, a majority was obtained for the relinquishment
+of the demand upon him. Since his first election into the house in 1765,
+his influence had been gradually increasing, until he has obtained a
+great ascendency in directing the town of Boston, and the house of
+representatives, and conseqently the council. His abilities and policy
+will foster the idea of independency, by the aids of those very
+severities the ministry may adopt, in order to compel the colonies into
+a submission to parliamentary authority in all cases whatever.
+
+
+
+
+                              LETTER VIII.
+
+
+                                                 _London, July 2, 1774._
+
+The letters sent over to the Massachusetts by Dr. Franklin, have
+produced a duel between Mr. _Whateley_, the banker, brother to the late
+secretary to the treasury, and _John Temple_, esq. in which the former
+was dangerously wounded. This has led the doctor to inform the public,
+that both the gentlemen are totally ignorant and innocent as to the
+transaction and its circumstances about which they fought. He declares
+that he alone was the person who obtained and transmitted to Boston the
+letters in question and says—“Mr. W. could not communicate them, because
+they were never in his possession; and for the same reason they could
+not be taken from him by Mr. T.” The doctor justifies his own conduct,
+and concludes with telling the world, he “thought it his duty to
+transmit them to his constituents.” But if they were sent over to be
+communicated to a few confidential gentlemen only, instead of being
+addressed to the speaker of the assembly, or one of the committee
+appointed to correspond with him, with orders to lay them before the
+house, how were they _transmitted to his constituents_? There is
+something mysterious in this business, which it is apprehended will not
+bear a discovery at present. It is suspected that the letters were
+procured out of some public office; and that Mr. Temple is not so
+perfectly ignorant of all circumstances as the doctor’s language seems
+to express.
+
+[Jan. 29, 1774.] The merits of the petition, presented some time ago by
+the doctor as agent for the Massachusetts, praying for the removal of
+the governor, came on to be heard before the privy council. It is
+reported, that Mr. _W——_, wandering from the question before their
+lordships, poured forth such a torrent of virulent abuse on Dr.
+_Franklin_ as scarce ever before took place in judicial proceedings. His
+reproaches appeared to some present to be incompatible with the
+principles of law, truth, justice, propriety and humanity. And it was
+thought it would have redounded more to the honor of their lordships,
+had they seemed to enjoy less the lashes which the doctor underwent; and
+had they expressed their dissatisfaction by reducing the orator to the
+remembrance of the exalted characters before whom he uttered such
+language. The petition was dismissed, and the doctor is displaced from
+the office of deputy post-master general for the colonies. The
+philosopher may recollect in some future day the liberties taken with
+him before the privy-council on the twenty-ninth of January, and take
+ample revenge on British ministers and courtiers.
+
+[March 7.] A message from his majesty, on account of the late
+disturbances in America, was presented to both houses. Particular
+mention was made of the outrage committed by the people at Boston.
+Matters are now brought to a crisis, and ministry are bent upon
+vigorous, sperited measures. To prevent opposition from the merchants,
+the public papers were filled with writings on the subject, which
+painted the misconduct of the colonies in the strongest colours, and
+urged in particular the impossibility of the future existence of any
+trade to America, if this flagrant outrage on commerce, as it is
+pronounced, went unpunished. These, with other endeavors, had the
+proposed effect. The resentment against the Americans became as high and
+as strong as could be desired, within the house; but the storm was to be
+directed against the _Massachusetts_. The minister, in debate, stated
+that the opposition to the authority of parliament had always originated
+in that colony; and that that colony had always been instigated to such
+conduct, by the irregular and seditious proceedings of Boston. It was
+become necessary therefore to begin with that town. He had forgot, or
+would not mention, that the violent opposition to the stamp act
+originated in Virginia.
+
+[Mar. 14.] Leave was given to bring in a bill “for the immediate removal
+of the officers concerned in the collection of the customs from Boston,
+and to discontinue the landing and discharging, lading and shipping of
+goods, wares and merchandises at Boston, or within the harbor thereof.”
+At the first introduction of the bill it was received with general
+applause. Mr. _Bollan_, however petitioned to be heard for the
+Massachusetts council, and in behalf of himself and other inhabitants of
+Boston. The commons refused to admit his petition, though a few days
+back they had received one from him as agent for the council. The lords
+were actually hearing him on a petition, as a person duly qualified. On
+the third reading of the bill another petition was presented in the name
+of several natives and inhabitants of North America; which insisted
+strongly on the injustice of the act, and its tendency to alienate the
+affections of America; and expressly declared, that the attachment of
+America could not long survive the justice of Great-Britain. The
+minority members maintained that the bill stood simply as a proscription
+of one of the greatest trading towns in the British dominions from the
+use of their port, and from all the commerce by which thousands obtained
+their bread. “Have we not (say they) given an extent of power to his
+majesty to prevent the port of Boston from ever being reinstated, if the
+king should think proper? A fine is laid; the trade is prohibited until
+it is paid; and when the fine is paid, the town may be as far from
+recovering her trade as ever. The act provides, that the crown must have
+satisfaction, and that the laws of trade and revenue should be obeyed.
+There is a sting in this. The act, under pretence of an indemnity to the
+East-India Company, is meant to enforce the submission to taxes. America
+will see this; and the cause of Boston will be made the cause of all the
+colonies. They are all as guilty as Boston. Not one has received the
+tea; some have destroyed it, others sent it back.” But all opposition
+was ineffectual; for the projected measures of government were
+immutable. The bill passed; and was carried up to the house of lords,
+where it was warmly debated, but, as in the house of commons, passed
+without a division.
+
+[March 31.] It received the royal assent.
+
+The Boston port bill formed only one part of the coercive plan proposed
+by ministry. A bill was soon brought in for “the better regulating the
+government of the Massachusetts Bay.” The purport of it was, to alter
+the constitution of the province, to take the whole executing power out
+of the hands of the democratic part, and to vest the nomination of
+counsellors, judges, and magistrates of all kinds, including sheriffs,
+in the crown, and in some cases in the king’s governor, and all to be
+removeable at the pleasure of the crown.
+
+In the debates it was asked of ministry, whether the colonies already
+regulated nearly in the manner proposed by the bill, were more
+submissive to the right of taxation than the Massachusetts. It was
+justly argued, the disorder lay much deeper than the forms of
+government; that the people throughout the continent were universally
+dissatisfied; and that the uneasiness and resistance was no less in the
+royal governments than in any other. Mr. _Bollan_ again made an effort
+in favor of his province; but the commons refused to receive his
+petition. The ministry having carried the preceding bill, prepared
+another, without which, it was said, the scheme would be entirely
+defective.
+
+[April 21.] Lord _North_ presented the third bill “for the impartial
+administration of justice in the cases of persons questioned for any
+acts done by them in the execution of the law, or for the suppression of
+riots and tumults in the _Massachusetts Bay_.” This bill provided, that
+in case any person was indicted in that province for murder, or any
+other capital offence, and it should appear to the governor that the
+fact was committed in the exercise or aid of magistracy, in suppressing
+tumults and riots, and that a fair trial could not be had in the
+province, he should send the person so indicted, &c. to any other
+colony, or to Great-Britain to be tried. The charge on both sides was to
+be paid out of the customs. The minority opposed this bill with great
+vehemence. They insisted that having no sort of reason for impeaching
+the tribunals of America, the real intention was to set up a military
+government, and provide a virtual indemnity for all the murders and
+capital outrages which might be committed by the barbarous hands of
+authority. From the impossibility of prosecuting in Great-Britain, they
+strenuously maintained that this was holding out encouragement for all
+kinds of lawless violence. Colonel _Barre_’s speech upon the occasion,
+commanded the attention of the whole house, and closed admirably, with
+“You have changed your ground. You are becoming the aggressors, and
+offering the last of human outrages to the people of America, by
+subjecting them in effect to military execution. Instead of sending them
+the olive branch, you have sent the naked sword. By the olive branch, I
+mean a repeal of all the late laws, fruitless to you and oppressive to
+them. Ask their aid in a constitutional manner, and they will give it to
+the utmost of their ability. They never yet refused it when properly
+required. Your journals bear the recorded acknowledgments of zeal with
+which they have crontributed to the general necessities of the state.
+What madness is it that prompts you to attempt obtaining that by force,
+which you may more certainly procure by requisition. They may be
+flattered into any thing, but they are too much like yourselves to be
+driven. Have some indulgence for your own likeness; respect their sturdy
+English virtue; retract your odious exertions of authority; and remember
+that the first step toward making them contribute to your wants, is to
+reconcile them to your government.”
+
+The publications of the day quote an old member rarely in opposition, as
+having closed his speech with these remarkable words—“I will now take my
+leave of the whole plan. You will commence your ruin from this day. I am
+sorry to say, that not only the house has fallen into this error, but
+the people approve of the measure. The people, I am sorry to say it, are
+misled. But a short time will prove the evil tendency of this bill. If
+ever there was a nation running headlong into ruin it is this.” It is
+much questioned by many, whether the member did not mistrake in
+saying—The people. The same natives of America who petitioned against
+the Boston port-bill [May 2.] renewed their endeavours by a petition
+against these two bills.—It was pointed with an uncommon energy and
+spirit; and strongly indicated the effects that these bills would
+produce in the place where they were intended to operate. It was
+admitted to lie on the table, and had no other notice taken of it.
+
+Both bills were opposed in the house of lords, and the minority entered
+on each a very strong protest. On both however in each house, the number
+of the minority continued all along very low and inadequate. Mr.
+_Bollan_ applyed for a hearing in the house of lords upon the last bill,
+but was refused. He has stood up in defence of the rights and liberties
+of the Massachusetts, when no other of the numerous advocates of the
+colonies, out of parliament, have appeared to check the torrent of the
+most grievous proceedings against them, in like manner, by their
+learning and fortitude.
+
+Upon the first of the two bills, the protesting lords _Richmond_,
+_Portland_, _Abingdon_, _King_, _Effingham_, _Ponsonby_, _Rockingham_,
+_Abergavenny_, _Leister_, _Craven_ and _Fitzwilliam_, dissented among
+other reasons, “because definitive legal offence, by which a forfeiture
+of the charter is incurred, has not been clearly stated and fully
+proved, neither has notice of this advers proceeding been given to the
+parties effected; neither have they been heard in their own
+defence—because all the judges are to be nominated, not by the crown,
+but by the governor; and all except the judges of the superior court,
+are to be removable at his pleasure, and expressly without the consent
+of that very council, which is to be nominated by the king; the sheriff
+is made changeable by the governor and council, as often and for such
+purpose as they shall think expedient, whereby the governor and council
+are intrusted with powers, with which the British constitution has not
+trusted his majesty and privy council, and have the means of returning
+such a jury in each particular case, as may best suit with the
+gratification of their passions and interests, so that the lives and
+properties of the subject are put into their hands without control.” The
+protesting lords took occasion to mention concerning the Boston
+port-act, “that, unexampled on the records of parliament, it had been
+entered on the journals of the house as voted _nemine dissentiente_, and
+had been stated in the debate of the day, to have been sent to the
+colonies as passed without a division in either house, and therefore as
+conveying the uncontroverted universal sense of the nation; and that an
+unfair advantage had been taken, on the final question for passing the
+penal bill, of the absence of those lords who had debated it for several
+hours, and strongly dissented from it on the second reading, the period
+on which it is most usual to debate the principle of a bill.”
+
+On the second bill, the protesting lords _Richmond_, _Fitzwilliam_,
+_Ponsonby_, _Rockingham_, _Portland_, _Craven_, _Leister_, and
+_Manchester_, dissented among other reasons “because the bill amounts to
+a declaration, that the house knows no means of retaining the colonies
+in due obedience, but by an army rendered independent of the ordinary
+course of law in the place where they are employed; because the bill
+seems to be one of the many experiments toward an introduction of
+essential innovations into the government of the empire.” They said,
+“The authority given by this bill to compel the transportation from
+America to Great-Britain, if any number of witnesses at the pleasure of
+the parties prosecuting and prosecuted, without any regard to their age,
+sex, health, circumstances, business or duties, seems to us so
+extravagant in its principle, and so impracticable in its execution, as
+to confirm us further in our opinion of the spirit which animates the
+whole system of the present American regulations.”
+
+[May 20.] His majesty gave his assent to both bills.
+
+The session was drawing near to the usual time of recess, and the
+greater number of the members were retired into the country. In this
+situation a bill was brought into the house of lords, “For making more
+effectual provision for the government of the province of _Quebec_, in
+North-America.” It passed through that house with little if any
+observation. When it came down to the house of commons, it met with a
+very different reception. The principal objects of the bill were, to
+ascertain the limits of the province, which were extended far beyond
+what were settled as such by the king’s proclamation of 1763—to form a
+legislative council for all the affairs of the province, except
+taxation, which council was to be appointed by the crown, and the office
+to be held during pleasure, and his majesty’s Canadian Roman Catholic
+subjects were to be entitled to a place in it—to establish the French
+laws and a trial without jury in civil cases, and the English laws, with
+trial by jury in criminal—and to secure to the Roman Catholic clergy,
+except the regulars, the legal enjoyment of their estates, and of their
+tythes from all who were of their own religion. The minority insisted,
+that the Protestant religion, by this establishment, enjoyed at best no
+more than a toleration. “The popish clergy,” they said, “have a legal
+parliamentary right to maintenance, the protestant clergy are left to
+the king’s discretion. Why are not both put at least on an equal
+footing, and a legal support provided for both?” The minority was
+uncommonly small; nevertheless the bill produced much greater uneasiness
+and discontent out of doors, than any of those for punishing the old
+colonies. The present policy of it is, among other things, to gain,
+through the influence of the priests, the assistance of the laity in
+subjugating the other provinces.
+
+[June 22.] It received the royal assent, when his majesty went to the
+house, at the close of the session; the business of which being ended,
+the ministry entertained the most sanguine expectations that the
+submission throughout America would be immediate, and that complete
+obedience and tranquility would be secured. The speech from the throne
+expressed similar sentiments. The triumphs and mutual congratulations of
+all who have supported the ministerial plan, within doors and without,
+are unusually great. These may be owing, not a little, to the assurances
+that governor Hutchinson has repeatedly given to many, that if the
+parliament would but act with resolution, and adopt spirited measures, a
+speedy submission would take place without any call for fighting.
+
+By the Quebec act, the total revenue of the province is consigned, in
+the first instance, to a warrant from the lord of the treasury, for the
+purpose of pensioning judges during pleasure, and the support of a civil
+list totally unlimited. The first lord of the treasury, without controul
+of parliament, is therefore in actual possession of the revenues of one
+American province, under the authority of an act of parliament, with no
+other obligation expressed, than in general to defray the expences of
+the administration of justice, and to support civil government. The
+residue, as in the tea act, is to be reserved for the disposal of
+parliamentary despotism committed into the hands of the crown and its
+minister; for the crown of Great-Britain is constituted as absolute in
+the province, under an act of parliament, as any despot that ever
+existed in the world. Hence is inferred what ministers would do through
+all America, did they possess the power.[108]
+
+Your present governor, general Gage, has been appointed as the most
+proper person to see to the execution of the laws which have been passed
+respecting both the colony and its capital; when he has settled matters,
+and established order and due submission to the power of parliament, Mr.
+Hutchinson is to return and resume the chair. The last, since his
+arrival, has been graciously received; his influence with ministry will
+continue, till events convince them that they have been greatly mistaken
+in relying upon his judgment on American subjects. A commission during
+pleasure has passed the great seal, granting to general Gage full power
+and authority, where he shall see cause, to pardon and remit all
+treasons, murders, felonies, crimes, and misdemeanors whatsoever, and
+all fines or penalties whatsoever incurred in the Massachusetts.
+
+
+
+
+                               LETTER IX.
+
+
+                                              _Roxbury, Sept. 28, 1774._
+
+The appointment of general Gage to the government was not thought of by
+Mr. Hutchinson. He expected to have been entrusted with the execution of
+the ministerial plan; and was rather disconcerted when he found it to be
+otherwise. Before he left the colony, he was presented with a few
+addresses; one by a number of gentlemen, conceived in very respectful
+terms, but against which many others entered a protest. Had he applied
+himself vigorously and steadily to the healing of the breach between the
+colonies and the parent state, instead of calling upon ministry to force
+submission, he would have been a blessing, and had the love of all; but
+now it will be well if he does not prove a curse to both countries, and
+make himself odious to the latest posterity.
+
+[May 13.] When general Gage landed on the long wharf, it was thought
+from appearances, that he had apprehensions of being ill treated by the
+inhabitants; but though they were highly incensed at the port-bill,
+which they had just received, they behaved toward him with the greatest
+decency. He was complimented by the council, the gentlemen in the
+commission of the peace, and others, and afterward sumptuously
+entertained.
+
+The next day there was a numerous town-meeting to consider the
+port-bill; when they resolved, “That it is the opinion of this town,
+that if the other colonies come into a joint resolution to stop all
+importation from and exportation to Great-Britain, and every part of the
+West-Indies, till the act be repealed, the same will prove the salvation
+of North-America and her liberties; and that the impolicy, injustice,
+inhumanity, and cruelty of the act, exceed all our powers of expression:
+We therefore leave it to the just censure of others, and appeal to God
+and the world.” Copies of the act arrived in different parts; were
+multiplied with incredible expedition; and circulated through the
+colonies, by which the whole country was inflamed. In some places they
+were printed upon mourning paper, with a black border, and cried about
+the streets under the title of _a barbarous, cruel, bloody and inhuman
+murder_; in others, great bodies of the people were called together by
+advertisement, and the obnoxious law burned with great solemnity,
+similar to what was done in the time of the stamp act.
+
+When the Boston port-bill arrived at New-York, captain Sears and
+M‘Dougall wrote to the committee at Boston, assuring them of the support
+of the New-Yorkers. The letter was published without their names. The
+Yorkers would have fixed a censure upon them, but could get no proof of
+their being the writers. Captain Sears and M‘Dougall called the people
+together by a publication. They collected, and after a violent
+opposition from the tories, who had brought their whole strength upon
+the occasion, a vote was obtained for appointing a committee on account
+of the port-bill, which was to consist of fifty-one. The tories fearing
+the worst, had provided a list; but all lists were taken off the table
+at Mr. Sears’s motion, when nominations took place, and the number of
+whigs and tories was nearly equal. Mr. Sears got another added, which
+made the committee fifty-two. The whigs in it insisted that there must
+be a congress. The violence of captain Sears’s temper, and his influence
+over the populace, induced the tories to fall in with the proposal of
+one, rather than be exposed to the dangers of a mob; but they expected
+that they should prevent it. A letter was sent to the Boston committee,
+with a recommendation to them to appoint time and place. They approved
+of a congress, but declined making the appointments. The York committee
+considered the answer; and it was carried to write to them afresh upon
+the subject. The tories were caught; for having agreed to the motion for
+a congress, they could not hinder it by all their contrivances. You must
+admit of my using, for brevity sake, the term _whig_ and _tory_ for the
+_pro’s_ and _con’s_ on the subject of full redress to American
+grievances. When better can be met with, they shall be adopted; but they
+are universally applied in this manner by the liberty party.
+
+The Boston committee of correspondence were sensible that the utmost
+delicacy and precaution in the use of words and expressions, were
+requisite in the present state of affairs; that so their enemies might
+not disappoint them of that support for which they were to make a
+general application to all the colonists, and whom they addressed on the
+head of the port-bill, and the distresses coming upon the inhabitants,
+with the utmost respect; they were careful to insert in all their
+letters, “It is hoped that Boston will be considered _as suffering in
+the common cause_.”
+
+While these letters were circulating, the period arrived for the meeting
+of a new general court, which assembled at Boston, [May 25.] when the
+services of the election day were carried on as usual; but the hearts of
+many felt sad with the apprehension that it would be the last of the
+kind. Their forebodings were increased, by the number and characters of
+the elected counsellors whom governor Gage negatived, not less than
+thirteen. He laid nothing before the court more than the ordinary
+besiness of the province; but gave them notice of their removal to Salem
+on the first of June in pursuance of the act. Learning that the house of
+assembly, to avoid removing were hastening through the necessary
+business, with the greatest expedition, he adjourned the general court
+to the seventh of June, then to meet at Salem. Before that day the
+inhabitants of several towns and cities, in different parts of the
+continent, concurred in expressing the greatest disapprobation of the
+measures pursued against Boston, an abhorrence of the new act, and a
+condemnation of the principles on which it was founded, with a
+resolution to oppose its effects in every manner, and to support their
+distressed brethren, who were to be the immediate victims. At
+Philadelphia a subscription was set on foot for the support of such poor
+inhabitants of Boston, as should be deprived of the means of subsistence
+by the operation of the act. The Virginia house of burgesses appointed
+the first of June to be set apart as a day of fasting and humiliation,
+devoutly to implore the divine interposition, for averting the heavy
+calamity which threatened destruction to their civil rights, and the
+evils of a civil war; and for giving one heart and one mind to the
+people, firmly to oppose every injury to the American rights. This
+occasioned their dissolution; but before they separated, eighty nine of
+the members entered into an association, in which they declared, “That
+an attack made on one of our sister colonies, to compel submission to
+arbritrary taxes, is an attack made on all British America, and
+threatens ruin to the rights of all, unless the united wisdom of the
+whole be applied.” They recommended to the committee of correspondence,
+to communicate with the several committees of the other provinces, on
+the expediency of appointing deputies from the different colonies, to
+meet annually in general congress, to deliberate on those measures,
+which the united interests of America might from time to time require.
+
+[June 1.] Business was finished at the custom-house in Boston at twelve
+o’clock at noon, and the harbour shut up against all vessels bound
+thither; and after the fourteenth none were to be allowed to depart. The
+day was devoutly kept at Williamsburgh in Virginia, as a day of fasting
+and humiliation. There was a solemn pause in the business of
+Philadelphia. If we except the Quakers, near nine-tenths of the citizens
+shut up their houses; and the bells were rung, muffled, all the day. It
+was observed in other places as a day of mourning.
+
+[June 7.] The Massachusetts general court met at Salem according to
+adjournment, and a committee was appointed to consider and report the
+state of the province. Mr. _Samuel Adams_ observed, that some of the
+committee were for mild measures, which he judged no way suited to the
+present emergency. He conferred with Mr. _Warren_ of Plymouth upon the
+necessity of giving into spirited measures, and then said, “Do you keep
+the committee in play, and I will go and make a _caucus_[109] against
+the evening; and do you meet me.” Mr. Samuel Adams secured a meeting of
+about five principal members of the house, at the time specified; and
+repeated his endeavours against the next night; and so as to the third,
+when they were more than thirty: the friends of administration knew
+nothing of the matter. The popular leaders took the sense of the members
+in a private way, and found that they should be able to carry their
+scheme by a sufficient majority. They had their whole plan compleated,
+prepared their resolves, and then determined upon bringing the business
+forward. But before they went upon it, the door-keeper was ordered to
+let no one whatsoever in, and no one was to go out: however, when the
+business opened, a ministerial member pleaded a call of nature, which is
+always regarded, and was allowed to go out. He then ran to give
+information of what was doing, and a messenger was dispatched to general
+Gage, who lived at some distance. The secretary was sent off to dissolve
+the general court; found the door fastened; knocked for entrance, but
+was answered, that the house was upon very important business, which
+when they had finished they would let him in. As he could obtain no
+entrance, he read the proclamation upon the steps leading to the
+representatives’ chamber, in the hearing of several members and others
+on the out-side with him, and immediately after in the council, thus
+dissolving the general court. The house, while sitting with their doors
+shut, appointed _Thomas Cushing_, _Samuel Adams_, _Robert Treat Pain_,
+_James Bowdoin_ and _John Adams_, esqrs. as their committee to meet
+other committees, that might be convened the first of September at
+Philadelphia, voted them five hundred pounds lawful (seventy-five pounds
+sterling) each, and chose a treasurer. They recommended also to the
+several towns and districts, the raising the said sum, by equitable
+proportions, according to the last provincial tax—a recommendation which
+had all the force of a law. It was a triumph to many of the sons of
+liberty to think that the house had out-generalled the governor.
+
+Sometime before the dissolution of the general court, near upon three
+hundred citizens of _Philadelphia_ met and appointed a committee to
+write to Boston. Their letter was temperate and firm. They acknowledged
+the difficulty of offering the inhabitants advice upon the sad occasion
+that existed; wished first to have the sense of the province in general;
+and observed that all lenient applications for obtaining redress should
+be tried, before recourse was had to extremities. They remarked that it
+might perhaps be right to take the sense of a general congress, before
+the desperate measure of putting an entire stop to commerce was adopted;
+and that it might be right at any rate, to reserve that measure as the
+last resource when all other means had failed. They mentioned, that if
+the making of restitution to the East-India Company for their teas would
+put an end to the unhappy controversy, and leave the people of Boston
+upon their ancient footing of constitutional liberty, it could not admit
+of a moment’s doubt what part they should take; but they added, it was
+not the value of the tea, it was the indefeasible right of giving and
+granting their own money, a right from which they could never recede,
+that was now the matter of consideration.
+
+The importance and necessity of a general congress was soon felt by
+every colony, so that the measure taken by the Massachusetts was
+gradually adopted by the others.
+
+_Maryland_, whose zeal in the cause of liberty was ardent, had a meeting
+of the committees appointed by the several counties, at the city of
+Annopolis, who elected five deputies for that province [June 25.] “to
+attend a general congress, at such time and place as may be agreed on,
+to effect one general plan of conduct, operating on the commercial
+connection of the colonies with the mother country, for the relief of
+Boston and preservation of American liberty.”
+
+This meeting commenced three days before the election of deputies; and
+considering the distance of Salem from Annopolis, cannot be ascribed to
+the transaction of the Massachusetts assembly on the seventeenth; beside
+it appears from the words _at such time and place as may be agreed on_,
+that the committees did not know that the Massachusetts assembly had
+mentioned the convening of a general congress on the first of September
+at Philadelphia.
+
+When the opinion of the Boston town-meeting respecting a joint
+resolution of the colonies to stop all importation and exportation till
+the port-bill was repealed, arrived in South-Carolina, it was
+represented to a number of the principal gentlemen in Charlestown. The
+mode proposed was thought to be of too much consequence to be adopted
+without the universal consent of the people. It was therefore determined
+to request a meeting of the inhabitants. That this might be as general
+as possible, circular letters were sent by express to every parish and
+district within the colony.
+
+[July 6.] A great number from almost every part of South-Carolina met at
+Charlestown. The proceedings of parliament against Boston and the
+Massachusetts Bay were distinctly related to this convention of the
+people; on which, without one dissenting voice, they came into various
+resolutions. Among others they resolved, “That five gentlemen be
+appointed deputies on the behalf of this colony, to meet the deputies of
+the several colonies in North-America in general congress, to consider
+the act lately passed, and bills depending in parliament, with regard to
+the port of Boston and province of Massachusetts, also the grievances
+under which America labors, with full power and authority, in behalf of
+us and our constituents, to concert, and effectually to prosecute, such
+legal measures (by which we for ourselves and them most solemnly engage
+to abide) as in the opinion of the said deputies, and of the deputies so
+to be assembled, shall be most likely to obtain a repeal of the said
+acts, and a redress of these grievances.”—That, while the oppressive
+acts relative to Boston are enforced, we will cheerfully, from time to
+time, contribute toward the relief of such persons there, whose
+unfortunate circumstances may be thought to stand in need of most
+assistance:”—“That a committee of ninety-nine persons be now appointed,
+to act as a general committee, to correspond with the committees of the
+other colonies, and to do all matters and things necessary to carry the
+resolutions into execution; and that any twenty-one of them met
+together, may proceed on business—their power to continue till the next
+general meeting.”
+
+The appointment of the above-mentioned deputies was recognized, ratified
+and confirmed by the house of assembly, at their next session, on the
+second of August.
+
+The Connecticut house of representatives, in expectation of the event
+during their recess, empowered a committee of nine, in case a congress
+of commissioners from the several colonies should be convened, to meet
+and choose delegates to serve for that colony, and to correspond with
+other committees. Mr. _Silas Deane_ was of the committee, and being
+ambitious of going to congress, schemed their meeting at New-London,
+(instead of Hartford) where through the influence of a most worthy
+father-in-law, his own policy, and his _own_ vote, he obtained a
+majority of _one_, and became one of the four Connecticut delegates,
+though not viewed by those who know him most, as a person of the
+greatest integrity, or the truest patriotism.
+
+At _Philadelphia_, a petition signed by near nine hundred freeholders
+was presented to Mr. Penn, the governor, entreating him to call a
+general assembly as soon as possible. This request being refused, the
+province proceeded to the election of deputies, who soon after met at
+_Philadelphia_. The resolutions passed at this meeting, carry the marks
+of cool and temperate deliberation, as well as affection to the mother
+country, more than those of any others; and are at the same time equally
+firm in the determination of supporting the colonial rights.
+
+In them the deputies set out with the strongest professions of duty and
+allegiance, and express their abhorence of every idea of an
+unconstitutial dependence on the parent state, and the most ardent
+wishes for a restoration of the former harmony. They reprobate in the
+strongest terms the act and bills relative to the _Massachusetts-Bay_,
+and declare that they consider their brethren at Boston, as suffering in
+the common cause. They insist upon the absolute necessity of a congress
+to consult together and form a general plan of conduct for all the
+colonies. They acknowledge, that a suspension of the commerce of that
+large trading province with Great-Britain, will greatly distress
+multitudes of their industrious inhabitants, but pronounce themselves
+ready to offer that sacrifice, and much greater, for the preservation of
+their liberties; however, they express their desire, that congress will
+first try the gentle mode of stating their grievances, and making a firm
+and decent claim of redress. They conclude with declaring, that that
+province will break off all commercial intercourse whatever, with any
+town, city or colony, and individuals in them who shall refuse, or
+neglect to adopt and carry into execution, such general plan as shall be
+agreed upon in the congress.
+
+They did not undertake to appoint the delegates, but left it to the
+Pennsylvania assembly, [July 22.] who soon after fixed upon seven
+gentlemen.
+
+At a meeting of delegates, from the different counties in _Virginia_ at
+_Williamsburgh_, beside the warmest professions of allegiance and
+loyalty, and several resolutions in common with the other colonies, they
+passed others, which considering the circumstances of the colony, with
+its immediate dependence on the mother country for the disposal of its
+only staple commodity, must be considered as very deserving of
+attention, because strongly indicating the true spirit of that people.
+They resolved not to purchase any more slaves from Africa, the
+West-Indies, or any other place; that their non-importation agreement
+should take place on the first of the following November, and that if
+the American grievances were not redressed by the tenth of August 1775,
+they would export after that time, no tobacco, nor any other goods
+whatever to Great-Britain. They recommended the cultivation of such
+articles of husbandry, instead of tobacco, as might form a proper basis
+for manufactures of all sorts; and particularly, the improvement of the
+breed of sheep, the multiplying of them, and the killing as few as
+possible. [Aug. 5.] They chose as delegates to a general congress,
+_Peyton Randolph_, _Richard Henry Lee_, _George Washington_, _Patrick
+Henry_, _Richard Bland_, _Benj. Harrison_ and _Edmund Pendleton_, esqrs.
+
+At Newport, in Rhode-Island, an animated paper was circulated, with the
+motto JOIN or DIE. The state of Boston was represented as a siege, and
+as a direct hostile invasion of all the colonies. “The generals of
+despotism (it says) are now drawing the lines of circumvallation around
+our bulwarks of liberty, and nothing but unity, resolution and
+perseverance, can save ourselves and posterity from what is worse than
+death—Slavery.” The general assembly of the colony chose two deputies to
+represent the colony in a general congress; who were legally authorised
+for that service, [Aug. 10.] under the hand and seal of the governor.
+
+All the other colonies, from New-Hampshire to South-Carolina
+inclusively, adopted the measure of electing representatives to meet in
+general congress.
+
+To judge aright of the present alarming state of affairs, you must
+observe, that it does not arise from the discontent of a turbulent or
+oppressed nobility or gentry, so that by bringing over a few of the
+leaders, the rest will follow of course, or persist only to their own
+ruin; nor does it depend upon the resolution or perseverance of a body
+of merchants and dealers, so that every man, habitually studious of his
+immediate interest, will tremble at the thought of those consequences
+which may essentially affect it: nor will a few lucrative jobs or
+contracts split the colonists into numberless factions. On the contrary,
+the great force of the opposition consists in the landholders throughout
+America. The British lands in this continent, are, in general, and more
+especially in the New-England colonies, the Jerseys, and in part of
+New-York and Pennsylvania, portioned out in such freeholds as afford
+that mediocrity of condition to the possessors, which is sufficient to
+raise strong bodies and vigorous minds; but seldom that superabundance
+which proves so fatal to both, in old and refined countries. The
+American freeholders, from many circumstances, are more enthusiastic
+lovers of liberty, than ever were the English yeomanry. The body of them
+are too bold to be despised without danger, and now that they are
+united, too numerous to be bribed. Human nature being the same in every
+quarter of the globe, had moderation instead of compulsion been
+employed, several who are at present zealous leaders, might have been
+secured, and ministry (in colonies of such different manners, interests,
+and principles, and on these accounts strongly inclined to variance with
+each other) might have carried many points which they will now find it
+difficult or impossible to do, since they have united them, by
+evidencing a design of subjugating each to a mode of government to which
+all, without exception, are averse in the highest degree.
+
+The Boston committee of correspondence received the most encouraging
+answers to their letters; and were assured that the town of Boston was
+considered _as suffering in the common cause_. They had more than the
+strongest expressions to console them, they had the substantial evidence
+of facts. Ministry promised themselves mighty advantages from making
+_Salem_ the seat of government, with the privilege of an open port,
+while the neighboring one, in itself of much greater consequence, was
+shut. But the merchants and freeholders of the town discovered a most
+noble spirit, which will prove a sore disappointment to them. If it was
+expected that incurable envy, jealousy, or animosity, would be excited
+between the two towns, and that the refractory capital being abandoned
+and left alone to ruminate upon her forlorn situation, would soon be
+reclaimed and brought to a full sense of her duty; the very reverse will
+mortify.
+
+[June 18.] The day after the dissolution of the general court, the
+merchants and freeholders of _Salem_ presented an address to the
+governor, and in it expressed the most generous sentiments. They said,
+“We are most deeply afflicted with a sense of our public calamities; but
+the miseries that are now rapidly hastening on our brethren in the
+capital of this province, greatly excite our commiseration, and we hope
+your excellency will use your endeavors to prevent a further
+accumulation of evils on that already sorely distressed people.”—“By
+shutting up the port of Boston, some imagine that the course of trade
+might be turned hither and to our benefit; but nature, in the formation
+of our harbor, forbids our becoming rivals in commerce with that
+convenient mart. And were it otherwise, we must be dead to every idea of
+justice, and lost to all feelings of humanity, could we indulge one
+thought to seize on wealth, and raise our fortunes on the ruin of our
+suffering neighbors.” The governor was treated with the highest respect,
+and mention was made of their hoping much from his general character, as
+well as from his wisdom and mildness in another command. They expressed
+the stronges attachment to the mother country, the deepest concern for
+the present unhappy troubles, and the most fervent wishes for a speedy
+and happy reconciliation, to obtain which they were willing to sacrifice
+every thing compatible with the safety and dignity of British subjects.
+
+_Marblehead_, a sea-port, about three miles from Salem, and equally far
+with the last from Boston, but a town of no great trade, being engaged
+chiefly in the cod fishery, testified its regard and compassion for the
+capital, by letting the suffering merchants have the free use of its
+wharfs and stores. Its inhabitants offered also to attend the lading and
+unlading of their goods, and transact for them all the business to be
+done at their port, without putting them to the smallest expence.
+
+The pity and resentment of the country at large, were excited by
+observations published on the Boston port-bill. Those of Mr. _Josiah
+Quincy_, jun. were most generally read and admired. He observed—“The
+Boston port-bill condemns a whole town unheard, nay, uncited to answer;
+involves thousands in ruin and misery, without suggestion of any crime
+by them committed; and is so constituted that enormous pains and
+penalties must ensue, notwithstanding the most perfect obedience to its
+injunctions. The destruction of the tea, which took place without any
+illegal procedure of the town, is the only alledged ground of consigning
+thousands of its inhabitants to ruin, misery and despair. Those charged
+with the most aggravated crimes, are not punishable till arraigned
+before disinterested judges, heard in their own defence, and found
+guilty of the charge. But here a whole people are accused, prosecuted by
+they know not whom, tried they know not when, proved guilty they know
+not how, and sentenced to suffer inevitable ruin. Their hard fate cannot
+be averted by the most servile submission, the most implicit obedience
+to this statute. Their first intimation of it was on the tenth of May,
+and it took place the first of June, thence to continue in full force,
+till it shall sufficiently appear to his majesty, that full satisfaction
+hath been made by, or in behalf of the inhabitants of Boston, to the
+East-India Company, for the damage sustained by the destruction of their
+tea; and until it shall be certified to his majesty, by the governor or
+lieutenant governor of the province, that reasonable satisfaction has
+been made to the officers of the revenue and others, for the riots and
+insurrection mentioned in it. So short a space is given for staying the
+torrent of threatened evils, that the subject, though exerting his
+utmost energy, must be overwhelmed and driven to madness by terms of
+deliverance which deny relief till his ruin is inevitable.”
+
+Others said, “Had punishment been only threatened, had it been in our
+option whether we would submit or suffer, the reason for complaint would
+have been less. But without previous warning in the proposal of any
+terms that might have prevented the coming of evil upon us, it is
+inflicted with ineffable vengeance; so that should we servilely submit
+to all required, we must notwithstanding suffer almost total ruin. The
+conditions upon which alone our sufferings are to be removed, far from
+being fixed with precision, are so loose and indeterminate, that a
+governor may perpetuate them during his political existence, the king in
+council not being enabled to open the port without his certificate. The
+wharfs and landing places at Boston, which are the property of numerous
+individuals, are, as to the use of them, wherein only their value
+consists, wrested out of their hands and put into the king’s, to be
+disposed of at his pleasure. Two wharfs indeed are to be opened again,
+when his majesty shall think proper; but the residue are for ever
+interdicted the exercise of commerce.”
+
+The rough drafts of the bills, “for the better regulating of the
+government of the Massachusetts-Bay;” and “for the impartial
+administration of justice in it,” as well as of that “for quartering the
+troops in America,” upon their arrival at Boston, were instantly
+circulated through the continent, and filled up whatever was before
+wanting, of violence and indignation in most of the colonies. Even those
+who were moderate, or seemed wavering, now became resolute and
+resentful. Nothing was to be heard of but meetings and resolutions.
+Liberal contributions for the relief of the distressed Bostonions were
+every where recommended, and soon practised. Numberless letters were
+written from districts, towns, and provinces, to the people of Boston,
+in which, besides every expression of sympathy and tenderness, they were
+commended for their past conduct, and strongly exhorted to a
+perseverance in that virtue which had brought on their sufferings. It
+was in vain that the friends of government attended a town-meeting, and
+attempted to pass resolutions for the payment of the tea, and for
+dissolving the committee of correspondence; they found themselves lost
+in a prodigious majority, and had no other resource than drawing up a
+protest against the proceedings of that body. The Boston committee of
+correspondence apprehended themselves so fixed in the good opinion of
+the public, that they ventured to frame and publish an agreement,
+entitled, _A solemn league and covenant_.
+
+[June 29.] General Gage was so alarmed at the idea of _a solemn league
+and covenant_, that he issued a strong proclamation against it, stiling
+it an unlawful, hostile, and traiterous combination. He charged all
+magistrates to apprehend and secure for trial, such as should have any
+share in aiding or abetting the foregoing or any similar covenant. The
+charge was needless; for the engagement was so unguardedly expressed,
+and so extremely ensnaring, that it was severely censured by many of the
+best and warmest sons of liberty in and about Boston, who refused to
+give it support; so that however it might be venerated out of the
+colony, it sunk into obscurity at home; and changed its form into one
+that was less exceptionable, and yet equally well calculated to stop the
+trade with Great-Britain, and that accorded with those entered into
+about the same time, in various parts of the continent, without any
+previous concert with each other, any more than with Boston. The
+coincidence of sentiments and measures given into by individuals and
+assemblies, larger and smaller, in the several and more distant
+colonies, without any previous contrivance, has been so remarkable, that
+persons the furthest removed from superstition, have inclined to ascribe
+it to a special providence of God. They have been seemingly actuated by
+one and the same spirit, nearly at the same instant. When letters have
+been dispatched from Boston to fellow-patriots afar, asking or giving
+advice; letters from these have been upon the road, giving or asking the
+very advice which was wanted—the like in other matters. Not that there
+is a uniformity in all points through the continent. The people may be
+divided into two great classes. One is for rushing headlong into the
+greatest extremities, without waiting till other measures are tried, or
+receiving the general sense of the colonies; and though eager for
+holding a congress, would leave it nothing to do but to prosecute the
+violence which they have began. The other is averse to violent measures,
+till all other means are ineffectually tried. They wish further
+applications to be made to Britain, and the grievances they complain of,
+with the rights which they claim, to be clearly stated and properly
+presented. This, they say, can be effectually done only by a general
+congress. There is a third party, who are friends to the British
+administration, or rather who do not totally disapprove of its measures;
+but their voice is so low, that except in a few particular places, it
+can scarcely be distinguished. The friends to colonial rights have a
+great advantage over them, not only from the goodness of their cause,
+but their possessing most of the presses on the continent. These are
+chiefly in the hands of the whigs, and news-papers publishing essays and
+other compositions against the prevailing opinions of the people, have
+not a universal spread, and cannot prove so profitable to the
+proprietors, as those on the other side of the question. The command
+which the sons of liberty have of the press, gives them the superiority
+in point of influence, over their antagonists in the periodical
+publications of the day.
+
+As the Boston port bill prohibits all water carriage, beside shutting up
+the port, the merchants are under the necessity of adopting the
+expensive mode of bringing their goods from Salem or Marblehead, all the
+way round, through Cambridge and Roxbury, to Boston. Had they been
+allowed to bring them to Charlestown by land, and thence to cross them
+over by water, they would have saved a fourth of the way. But it is
+pleasing to observe what trade is going forward, notwithstanding the
+embarrassments with which it is clogged. Boston is exhibiting a scene of
+patience, fortitude, and perseverance, which will make them renowned in
+history. Though liberal contributions have been made, are raising, and
+will be raised, for the succour of sufferers; yet it may be easily
+conceived, that in a town containing several thousand inhabitants, who
+have subsisted chiefly by commerce and the various kinds of business
+subservient to it, and where the maintenance of many families depends
+merely upon the locality, the cutting off of that grand source of their
+employment and subsistence, must occasion great distresses
+notwithstanding every relief. Even the rich are not exempt from the
+general calamity, as a very considerable part of their property consists
+in wharfs, warehouses, stores, and those numerous erections which are
+destined to the purposes of commerce, but are now no longer profitable.
+
+The people at large have been for some time preparing to defend their
+rights with the point of the sword. They see that they are either to be
+terrified or driven into submission, by an armed force; and are for
+providing against both. The countrymen, in returning from Boston, are
+daily bringing out guns, knapsacks, &c. Every one appears desirous of
+being well accoutred. They have arms in general, the militia law
+requiring it of all within a certain age. Note—They are fond of
+shooting, are accustomed to it from early life, and are special
+marksmen. They are perfecting themselves in their exercise. Handling the
+musket and training, are the fashionable amusements of the male
+inhabitants, while the females encourage them to proceed. The sound of
+drums and fifes is constantly saluting your ears. Husbands and wives,
+parents and children, brothers and sisters, lovers, the young and the
+old, seem possessed of, or rather to be possessed by a martial spirit,
+and are fired with an enthusiastic zeal for liberty. In most places, but
+particularly in _Berkshire_ and _Worcester_ counties, where the
+influence of government was supposed to prevail most, nothing is to be
+seen or heard of, except the purchasing of arms and ammunition, the
+casting of balls, and the making of all those preparations which testify
+the most immediate danger, and determined resistance.
+
+The high military tone of the country people, is to be placed chiefly to
+the account of the two bills “for regulating the government of the
+Massachusetts,” and “the impartial administration of justice in it.”
+These bills have proposed so thorough a change in the civil and
+religious liberties of towns and individuals, that they view themselves
+as intentionally deprived of every privilege, and reduced to the
+necessity of fighting for all they hold dear to them. It is of the
+utmost consequence that juries should not be packed. The accustomed mode
+of electing them is excellent, but liable to abuse, and there “may have
+been instances wherein persons who have no regard to religion and to
+divine revelation, have been really picked up to serve a turn.”[110] But
+this will not justify that most execrable alteration of leaving it in
+the power of the governor and council, through the aid of the sheriff,
+to obtain such a jury in each cause, as may best suit their passions and
+interests, whereby the lives and properties of the subjects are put into
+their hands without controul.[111]
+
+It is also to be enacted, by the regulating bill, that after the first
+of August, 1774, there shall be no town-meetings, without the leave of
+the governor or lieutenant governor, in writing, expressing the special
+business of such meetings, first obtained, except the annual meetings in
+March, for the choice of select men, constables, and other officers; and
+in May, for the election of representatives, and meetings to fill up the
+offices aforesaid, on death or removal; and that no other matter shall
+be treated of at such meetings except the election of aforesaid officers
+or representatives, nor at any other meeting, except the business
+expressed in the leave given. A more obnoxious alteration could scarce
+have been invented.
+
+Every town is an incorporated republic. The select men, by their own
+authority, or upon the application of a certain number of townsmen,
+issue a warrant for the calling of a town-meeting. The warrant mentions
+the business to be engaged in, and no other can be legally executed. The
+inhabitants are warned to attend; and they that are present, though not
+a quarter, or tenth of the whole, have a right to proceed. They choose a
+president by the name of moderator, who regulates the proceedings of the
+meeting. Each individual has an equal liberty of delivering his opinion,
+and is not liable to be silenced or browbeaten by a greater or richer
+townsman than himself. Every freeman or freeholder, as the business
+regards either the freeholders in particular or the freemen at large,
+gives his vote or not, and for or against, as he pleases; and each vote
+weighs equally, whether that of the highest or lowest inhabitant. At
+these town-meetings the people are used to debate and conclude upon
+instructions to their representatives respecting matters before, or
+likely to come before the general court—freely to express their
+sentiments regarding public transactions—to agree upon the choice of a
+minister, and the salary they shall give him—upon building or repairing
+the meeting-house, and upon a variety of other interesting matters,
+which concern the exercise of their civil or sacred privileges. All the
+New-England towns are upon the same plan in general, though different in
+certain particulars. In the colony of Rhode-Island they have no minister
+paid by the town, as a town, nor is it allowed by the government; the
+salary is not a town charge, but is made up out of the voluntary
+contributions of the denomination to which he is joined.
+
+From the free exercise of all the above cited rights, the Massachusetts
+inhabitants are to be suspended by the aforesaid enacting clause. When
+they wish, or have occasion to hold meetings for any of the above
+purposes, they will be obliged to apply to the governor, who may put a
+negative upon every application, and who will have it in his power to
+prevent their settling a minister when the pulpit is become vacant, till
+he can be well assured that the person on whom the choice will fall,
+either does or will incline to support governmental measures.
+
+The bill for the impartial administration of justice, the people
+consider as threatening them with military execution, if they comply not
+with that for the better regulating of the government. The English blood
+which they have derived from their forefathers, without corrupting it by
+foreign mixtures, for they have been too national to encourage, like
+some colonies, the settlement of foreigners among them—that blood boils
+in their veins at those two bills, and fires them to a military
+opposition. The inhabitants of Connecticut mean not to be idle
+spectators of the fate of their sister colony, which can only be a
+prelude to their own, and are therefore giving in to equal exertions for
+stemming the approaching torrent.
+
+Soon after general Gage’s arrival, two regiments of foot, with a small
+detachment of the artillery, and some cannon, were landed at Boston, and
+encamped on the common. These troops were by degrees reinforced by the
+arrival of several regiments from Ireland, New-York, Halifax, and at
+length from Quebec. The arrival and station of these troops, was far
+from being agreeable to the inhabitants; nor was the jealousy in any
+degree less in the minds of their neighbors of the surrounding counties.
+The dissatisfaction was increased by placing a guard upon Boston Neck,
+the narrow isthmus which joins the peninsula to the continent; for which
+measure the frequent desertion of the soldiers was the assigned reason.
+Individuals have encouraged such desertion; and the Boston committee
+have not failed to contribute to the temptation, by making the situation
+of the soldiery as disagreeable as they could, and by counteracting all
+endeavors to render it comfortable. They act systematically for the
+prevention of all supplies for the British troops. Through their
+connection with the neighboring committees, the farmers and others are
+prevented from selling them straw, timber, slitwork, boards, in short
+every article excepting provisions necessary for their subsistence. The
+straw which is purchased for their service is daily burnt. Vessels with
+brick intended for the army are sunk, and carts with wood are
+overturned. Thus, by some contrivance or other, purchases are either
+prevented, or when made, the king’s property is destroyed in every
+manner in which it can be effected. While these things are doing, a
+trifling circumstance gives the inhabitants of Boston a full earnest of
+the support they may expect from the country in case of extremity, and
+an opportunity of knowing the general temper of the people. A report
+spreads, that a regiment posted on the Neck, has cut off all
+communication with the country, in oder to starve the town into a
+compliance with any measures which may be proposed to it. Upon this
+vague report, a large body of the inhabitants of Worcester county
+assemble, and dispatch two messengers express to Boston, to discover the
+truth of the information. These envoys acquaint the townsmen, that if
+the report had been true, there were several thousand armed men ready to
+have marched to their assistance. They tell them further, that they are
+commissioned to acquaint them, that even though they should be disposed
+to a surrender of their liberties, the people of the country will not
+think themselves at all included in their act; that by the late act and
+the bills pending in the British parliament when the last intelligence
+was received, their charter was utterly vacated; and that the compact
+between Britain and the colonies being thus dissolved, they are at full
+liberty to combine together, in what manner and form they think best,
+for mutual security.
+
+[August 4.] The governor, by a proclamation for the encouragement of
+piety and virtue, the prevention and punishment of vice, profaneness and
+immorility, has exasperated the minds of the people, owing to the
+insertion of _hypocrisy_ among the immoralities. They have been scoffed
+at and reproached by enemies, and those of looser manners, for a
+pharisaical attention to outward forms and the appearances of religion;
+and therefore view this insertion as an intended insult. With the new
+acts, the governor received a list of thirty-six new counsellors, who
+agreeable to the new regulations, have been appointed by the crown,
+contrary to the method prescribed by the charter.—About twenty-four of
+the gentlemen have accepted, so that there is a sufficient number to
+attempt carrying on the business of government. But the courts of
+judicature at Boston are suspended, for the grand jurors refuse to take
+the oaths, and to act under new judges and laws. The petit jurors
+decline serving, on account of _Peter Oliver_, esq. standing impeached
+by a late honorable house of commons of the province, and of the judges
+of the superior court being made to depend upon the crown. Not only so,
+but the great and petty juries through the colony, unanimously refure to
+act in any manner under the new regulations; and the clerks of the court
+have found it necessary to acknowledge their contrition in the public
+papers, for issuing the warrants by which the juries were summoned, and
+not only to declare that they will not act so again, but to apologize
+for what they have done. At Great Barrington and some other places, the
+people assembled in large bodies, and filled the court-house and avenues
+in such a manner, that neither judge nor officer could obtain entrance;
+and upon the sheriff’s commanding them to make way for the court, they
+answered, “We know no court, nor any other establishment, independent of
+the ancient laws and usages of our country, and to none other will we
+submit, or give way upon any account.”
+
+At Salem the merchants, freeholders and other inhabitants, were by
+hand-bills summoned to meet on Wednesday the twenty-fourth, to consider
+on measures for opposing the execution of divers late acts of
+parliament. The day preceding the intended meeting, [August 23.] the
+governor, who resides within a few miles of the place, published a
+proclamation prohibiting all persons from attending. The proclamation
+being disregarded, a company of soldiers were ordered into town to
+disperse the meeting; but before they got to it, the business was
+finished, and the inhabitants withdrawn. Three of the gentlemen were
+apprehended, but gave bonds to appear in court, and so were discharged.
+
+The proceedings of the people, and their manifest dispositions, have
+alarmed the general, who has thought it necessary for the safety of the
+troops, as well as to secure the important post of Boston, to fortify
+the entrance at the Neck, which affords the only communication, except
+by water, between the town and the continent. His own personal safety,
+while at his country residence in Danvers, would have been endangered,
+had not the prudence of Samuel Holten, esq. M. D. a genuine, determined,
+but considerate son of liberty, cooled and moderated the temper of his
+neighbors.
+
+_William Brattle_, esq. frequently an elected counsellor under the
+charter, having given a hint to the governor to secure the provincial
+ammunition, he sent two companies of soldiers across the river long
+before day-break, [Sept. 1.] who possessed themselves of the powder in
+the arsenal at Charlestown. The news circulated apace, and in the
+morning the inhabitants of the neighboring towns, to the amount of
+several thousands, assembled at Cambridge, mostly in arms. They
+proceeded to the lieutenant governor Oliver’s house, and to the house of
+several of the new counsellors, and of others who they thought had shewn
+themselves unfriendly to the province. Some of the consellors were
+obliged to resign, and to declare they would no more act under what are
+pronounced the arbitrary laws lately enacted—It was with difficulty that
+the multitude was restrained from marching to Boston, there to demand a
+delivery of the powder, and, in case of refusal, to attack the troops.
+This collection of people, and the confusion necessarily attending their
+transactions, gave rise to a rumor, that the fleet and troops were
+firing upon the town of Boston, which flew with amazing rapidity through
+New-England; and in less than 24 hours after, there were between 30 and
+40,000 men in arms, some of whom marched from 20 to 30 miles toward
+Boston before they were undeceived. This report, and the seizure of the
+powder, roused the inhabitants in the other colonies beyond New-England,
+so that they immediately began learning the military exercise. The
+transaction at Cambridge produced such other risings in the colony, as
+obliged more of the new council to resign or to flee to Boston; whither,
+by the close of the month, the commissioners, the custom-house officers,
+and all who have made themselves particularly obnoxious, by taking an
+active and decided part against the country, repaired for protection.
+Thus is the seat of government at Salem abandoned, and the apparatus of
+a custom-house removed to a place, which an act of parliament has
+proscribed from all trade.
+
+About this time the governor’s company of cadets, consisting of Boston
+gentlemen, disbanded themselves, and returned him the standard he
+presented them upon his arrival. This slight was owing to his taking
+away the commission from Mr. Hancock, who was colonel of the corps. But
+Mr. John Murray, a colonel of the militia, having accepted a seat in the
+new council, twenty-four officers of his regiment resigned their
+commissions in one day. Such is the prevailing spirit, that all persons
+accepting offices under the new laws, or preparing to act in conformity
+to them, are declared enemies to their country, and threatened
+accordingly.
+
+The seizing of the powder, and the withholding from the legal
+proprietors what is lodged in the magazine of Boston, and the design
+carrying into execution of repairing and manning the fortifications at
+the entrance of the town, have occasioned the holding an assembly of
+delegates from the several towns and districts in the county of Suffolk,
+of which Boston is the county town. After a most spirited preamble, they
+resolved, among other things [Sept. 9.] “That no obedience is due from
+this province to either or any part of the late acts, but that they be
+rejected as the attempts of a wicked administration to enslave
+America—that so long as the justices are appointed or hold their places
+by any other tenure than that which the charter and the laws of the
+province direct, they must be considered as unconstitutional officers,
+and as such no regard ought to be paid to them by the people of this
+country—that if the justices shall sit and act during their present
+disqualified state, this county will bear harmless all sheriffs, jurors,
+and other officers, who shall refuse to carry into execution the orders
+of said courts—that it be recommended to the collectors of taxes and all
+other officers who have public monies in their hands, to retain the
+same, and not to make any payment thereof to the provincial county
+treasurer, until the civil government of the province is placed upon a
+constitutional foundation, or it shall be otherwise ordered, by the
+proposed provincial congress—that the persons who have accepted seats at
+the council board, by virtue of a mandamus from the king, have acted in
+a direct violation of the duty they owe to their country; this county do
+recommend it to all who have so highly offended, and have not already
+resigned, to make public resignation on or before the 20th of this
+instant, September; all refusing so to do, shall, after said day, be
+considered by this county, as obstinate and incorrigible enemies to this
+country—that the fortifications begun and now carrying on upon Boston
+Neck, gives us reason to apprehend some hostile intention against that
+town—that the late act establishing the Roman Catholic religion in
+Quebec, is dangerous in an extreme degree to the Protestant religion,
+and to the civil rights and liberties of all America—that whereas our
+enemies have flattered themselves that they shall make an easy prey of
+this numerous brave people, from an apprehension that they are
+unacquainted with military discipline; we therefore, for the honor and
+security of this county and province, advise, that such persons be
+elected in each town as officers in the militia, as shall be judged of
+sufficient capacity, and who have evidenced themselves the invincible
+friends to the rights of the people, and that the inhabitants do use
+their utmost diligence to acquaint themselves with the art of war, and
+do for that purpose appear under arms at least once every week—that
+during the present hostile appearances on the part of Britain, we are
+determined to act merely upon the defensive so long as such conduct may
+be vindicated by reason and the principles of self-preservation, but no
+longer—that as we understand it has been in contemplation to apprehend
+sundry persons of this county, we do recommend, should such measure be
+put in practice, to seize and keep every servant of the present
+government throughout the province, until the persons so apprehended be
+restored uninjured—that we recommend to all persons, not to engage in
+any routs, riots, or licentious attacks upon the properties of any
+person whatsoever, as being subversive of all order and government; but
+by a steady, manly, uniform, and persevering opposition, to convince our
+enemies, that in a contest so important, in a cause so solemn, our
+conduct shall be such as to merit the approbation of the wise, and the
+admiration of the brave and free of every age and of every country.”
+They then drew up an address to the governor, and voted that doctor
+_Joseph Warren_ (a physician, an amiable gentleman, who wishes for a
+reconciliation between the colonies and the parent state, upon a redress
+of grievances, and aims not at independency) with others, be a committee
+to wait on his excellency, to inform him how the country is alarmed, and
+to remonstrate against the fortifications making on the Neck, and the
+repeated insults offered by the soldiery to persons passing and
+re-passing into Boston, and to confer with him on those subjects. The
+governor was waited upon to know if he would receive the committee with
+the address; but desiring a private copy of it, that when he received
+them he might be ready with a prepared answer, he was furnished with it,
+and afterwards fixed on Monday the 12th for receiving the committee. The
+doings of the county delegates, and a copy of the address to the
+governor have been sent off by express to the general congress, now met
+at Philadelphia. On the Monday, when the committee had delivered the
+address of the county, he answered to it, “I have no intention to
+prevent the free egress and regress of any person to and from the town
+of Boston. I shall suffer none under my command to injure the person or
+property of any of his majesty’s subjects; but it is my duty to preserve
+the peace, and to prevent surprise; and no use will be made of the
+cannon, unless the hostile proceedings of the people shall render it
+necessary.” The patriots are waiting earnestly for the opinion of
+congress on the Suffolk resolves, in hopes that they will be approved
+of; and if so, they will go on with greater resolution and courage; for
+they will consider such approbation as a declaration that the colony
+will be supported by congress, in case hostilities are necessary for the
+preservation of its liberties, and is also justifiable in arming and
+training the militia.
+
+Mr. _Quincy_ is upon the point of sailing for Britain, at the request of
+several co-patriots. Be so obliging as to pay a proper attention to him;
+you will be pleased at finding him so intelligent a gentleman, and may
+rely upon his information. Shall keep the letter open, that if the sense
+of congress is received time enough, it may be forwarded.
+
+P. S. The sons of liberty are in high spirits. The Suffolk resolves were
+before congress on Saturday morning, the 17th, and were considered;
+after which it was _resolved unanimously_, “That this assembly deeply
+feels the suffering of their countrymen in the _Massachusetts Bay_,
+under the operation of the late unjust, cruel, and oppressive acts of
+the _British_ parliament—that they most thoroughly approve the wisdom
+and fortitude with which opposition to these wicked ministerial measures
+has hitherto been conducted, and they earnestly recommend to their
+brethren, a perseverance in the same firm and temperate conduct, as
+expressed in the resolutions determined upon at a meeting of the
+delegates for the county of _Suffolk_, on Tuesday the 6th instant (that
+was the day of their first meeting, but they did not finish till the
+9th) trusting that the effect of the united efforts of _North-America_
+in their behalf, will carry such conviction to the _British_ nation, of
+the unwise, unjust, and ruinous policy of the present administration, as
+quickly to introduce better men and wiser measures.—“_Resolved
+unanimously_, That contributions from all the colonies, for supplying
+the necessities and alleviating the distresses of our brethren at
+Boston, ought to be continued, in such manner, and so long as their
+occasions may require.” Mr. Quincy sails to-day.
+
+
+
+
+                               LETTER X.
+
+
+                                            _Roxbury, February 3, 1775._
+
+The measures pursued by the British ministry, for subjecting America to
+parliamentary authority in all cases whatever, have united the twelve
+colonies, from New-Hampshire to South-Carolina, inclusively, into a
+compact body. Many on the side of government flattered themselves that
+the event would never exist. They had no small ground for it,
+considering that several of the colonies clash in their particular
+interests; have been frequently quarreling about boundaries and other
+matters; differ greatly in manners, customs, religion and constitutions;
+and have local prejudices, jealousies, and aversions. But they have been
+pressed by a common danger, threatening the most valuable rights of each
+individual province, so that they have all elected delegates to meet in
+a general congress, to consult in what way to obtain a redress of
+grievances and ward off the impending ruin. The ministerial influence in
+New-York has not prevailed, as was expected, to keep that colony from
+joining the others. Great dependance was had upon their monied men; but
+the cause of liberty was too popular, and the numbers that espoused it
+too many and too independent, either to be bribed or overawed.
+
+[Sept. 5.] The delegates being arrived at Philadelphia, from all the
+colonies except North-Carolina, they met in general congress, and
+proceeded to the choice of a president, when _Peyton Randolph_, esq. was
+unanimously elected, and Mr. _Charles Thomson_ was unanimously chosen
+secretary. They resolved, that “in determining questions, each colony
+shall have one vote.” Before they engaged in any special business, the
+North-Carolina delegates joined them. The number of the whole, when
+together, is fifty-two beside the president. The first important service
+wherein they engaged, you have had an account of in the preceding
+postscript. In their subsequent resolutions [Oct. 8.] they declared,
+“That if the late acts of parliament shall be attempted to be carried
+into execution by force, in such case all _America_ ought to support the
+inhabitants of the _Massachusetts Bay_ in their opposition—that if it be
+found absolutely necessary to remove the people of Boston into the
+country, all America ought to contribute toward recompensing them for
+the injury they may thereby sustain—and that every person who shall
+accept, or act under any commission or authority derived from the act of
+parliament changing the form of government and violating the charter,
+ought to be held in detestation. They have written a letter to general
+_Gage_ [Oct. 10.] in which they express the deepest concern at his
+proceeding in a manner that bore so hostile an appearance, and which
+even the oppressive acts of parliament did not warrant. They represent
+the tendency this conduct must have to irritate and force the people,
+hitherto well disposed to peaceable measures, into hostilities, which
+may prevent the endeavors of congress to restore a good understanding
+with the parent state, and may involve us in the horrors of a civil war.
+They express their hope, that the general, to quiet the minds of the
+people, will discontinue the fortifications in and about Boston, prevent
+any further invasions of private property, restrain the irregularities
+of the soldiers, and give orders that the communication between the town
+and country may be open, unmolested, and free.
+
+The general in his answer, said “No troops have given less cause for
+complaint, and greater care was never taken to prevent it; and such care
+and attention was never more necessary from the insults and provocations
+daily given to both officers and soldiers. The communication between the
+town and country has been always free and unmolested, and is so still.”
+This assertion may appear perfectly just to a military gentleman; but
+may be otherwise thought of by one in a civil department, who means that
+the entrance into a town should have neither guards nor sentinels,
+either to stop or challenge passengers, whether by night or by day. The
+general intimated, that the hostile preparations throughout the country,
+and the menaces of blood and slaughter, made it his duty to fortify the
+Neck. He concluded with—“I ardently wish, that the common enemies to
+both countries may see, to their disappointment, that these disputes
+betwen the mother country and the colonies, have terminated like the
+quarrels of lovers, and increased the affection which they ought to bear
+to each other.”
+
+The congress have also made a declaration of rights (contained within a
+number of resolves) to which they say the _English_ colonies of
+North-America are entitled by the immutable laws of nature, the
+principles of the English constitution, and their several charters or
+compacts. In the first of these are life, liberty, and property, a right
+to the disposal of any of which, without their consent, they have never
+ceded to any sovereign power whatever. They mention, that their
+ancestors, at the time of their emigration, were entitled to all the
+rights, liberties, and immunities of free and natural born subjects
+within the realm of England; and that by such emigration they by no
+means forfeited, surrendered or lost any of those rights; but that they
+were, and their descendants now are, entitled to the enjoyment of all
+such of them as their local and other circumstances enabled them to
+exercise. They then state, that the foundation of English liberty, and
+of all free government, is a right in the people to participate in their
+legislative council; and proceed to show, that as the colonists are not,
+and from various causes, cannot be represented in the British
+parliament, they are entitled to a free and exclusive power of
+legislation in their several provincial legislatures, where their right
+of representation can alone be preserved, in all cases of taxation and
+internal policy, subject only to the negative of their sovereign, in
+such manner as had heretofore been used.
+
+To qualify the extent of this paragraph, which may seem to leave no
+means of parliamentary interference, for holding the colonies to the
+mother country, they declare, that from the necessity of the case, and a
+regard to the mutual interests of both countries, they cheerfully
+consent to the operation of such acts of the British parliament as are,
+_bona fide_, restrained to the regulation of their external commerce,
+for the purpose of securing the commercial advantages of the whole
+empire to the mother country, excluding every idea of taxation, either
+internal or external, for raising a revenue on the subjects in America,
+without their consent.
+
+They resolved, “That the respective colonies are entitled to the common
+law of England, and more especially to the great and estimable privilege
+of being tried by their peers of the vicinage; to the benefit of such of
+the English statutes as existed in the time of their colonization, and
+which they have found to be applicable to their several and other local
+circumstances; and to all the immunities and privileges granted and
+confirmed to them by royal charters, or secured by their several codes
+of provincial laws—that they have a right to assemble peaceably,
+consider of their grievances, and petition the king; and that all
+prosecutions, prohibitory proclamations, and commitments for the same,
+are illegal—that the keeping a standing army in these colonies, in times
+of peace, without the consent of the legislature of that colony in which
+such army is kept, is against law—that it is rendered essential to good
+government, by the English constitution, that the constituent branches
+of the legislature be independent of each other; that therefore the
+exercise of legislative power, by a council appointed, during pleasure,
+by the crown, is unconstitutional, and destructive to the freedom of
+American legislation.”
+
+They proceeded to claim, in behalf of themselves and constituents; and
+to insist on the foregoing articles, as their indisputable rights and
+liberties, which cannot be legally taken from them, altered, or
+abridged, by any power whatever, without their own consent, by their
+representatives in their several provincial legislatures. They then
+resolved concerning eleven acts of parliament, or parts of acts, passed
+in the present reign, that “they are infringements and violations of the
+foregoing rights, and that the repeal of them is essentially necessary,
+in order to restore harmony between Great-Britain and the American
+colonies.” Among these is the Quebec bill, which is termed “an act for
+establishing the Roman Catholic religion in the province of Quebec,
+abolishing the equitable system of English laws, and erecting a tyranny
+there, to the great danger (from so total a dissimilarity of religion,
+law and government) of the neighboring British colonies, by the
+assistance of whose blood and treasure, the said country was conquered
+from France.”
+
+After specifying their rights, and enumerating their grievances, they
+mention, that in hopes of being restored to that state in which both
+countries formerly found happiness and prosperity, they have for the
+present only resolved to pursue the following peaceable measures, viz.
+to enter into a non-importation, non-consumption, and non-exportation
+agreement; and to prepare an address to the people of Great-Britain, a
+memorial to the inhabitants of British America, and a loyal address to
+his majesty.
+
+By the association they have bound themselves, and intentionally their
+constituents to a strict observance of fourteen articles. They have
+agreed by the second, that after the first day of December next, they
+will wholly discontinue the slave trade, and will neither hire their
+vessels nor sell their commodities to those who are concerned in it—by
+the third, that from that day, they will not purchase or use any tea
+imported on account of the East-India Company, or any on which a duty
+hath been or shall be paid; and from and after the first of March next,
+they will not purchase or use any East-India tea whatever, nor any of
+those goods they have agreed not to import, which they shall have cause
+to suspect were imported after the first of December, except such as
+come under the directions afterward mentioned—by the fourth, that the
+non-exportation agreement shall be suspended to the tenth of September,
+1775, after which, if the acts objected to, are not repealed, they will
+not, directly nor indirectly, export any commodity whatsoever, to
+Great-Britain, Ireland, or the West-Indies, except rice to Europe—by the
+fifth, that they will never more have any commercial intercourse with
+any British merchants, who may ship goods in violation of, and with a
+view of breaking the association—by the eighth, that they will encourage
+frugality, œconomy, and industry, promote agriculture, arts, and
+manufactures, discourage every species of extravagance and dissipation,
+and will wear no other mourning than a piece of crape or ribbon—by the
+fourteenth and last, that they will have no trade, dealings, or
+intercourse whatsover, with any North-American colony or province, that
+shall not accede to, or that shall hereafter violate the association;
+but will hold them as inimical to their country. This association, which
+is to continue in force till the above acts, or parts of acts, wherein
+they relate to the colonies, are repealed, has been signed [Oct. 24.] by
+all the members of congress.
+
+In their address to the people of Great-Britain, the congress pay the
+highest praise to the noble and generous virtues of their and our common
+ancestors, but in a way which rather reproaches you with a shameful
+degeneracy. They tell you not to be surprised that they, who are
+descended from the same common ancestors, should refuse to surrender
+their liberties and the constitution you so justly boast of, to men who
+found their claims on no principles of reason, and who prosecute them
+with a design, that by having _our_ lives and property in their power,
+they may with the greater facility enslave _you_. They complain of being
+oppressed, abused, and misrepresented, so that it is become a duty to
+themselves and their posterity, and to the general welfare of the
+British empire, to address you on this very important subject. They call
+upon you yourselves, to witness to their loyalty and attachments to the
+common interest of the whole empire; to their efforts in the last war;
+and to your own acknowledgment of their zeal, and your even reimbursing
+them large sums of money, which you confessed they had advanced beyond
+their proportion, and far beyond their abilities. They proceed to state
+and examine the measures and the several acts of parliament, which they
+consider as hostile to America, and represent the probable consequences
+to your country should ministry be able to carry the point of taxation,
+and reduce the colonies to a state of perfect slavery. They ingeniously
+endeavor to render theirs a cause common to both countries, by showing
+that such success might, in the end, be as fatal to the liberties of
+Britain as to those of America. “Take care (say they) that you do not
+fall into the pit preparing for us.” After denying the several charges
+of being seditious, impatient of government, and desirous of
+independency, which they assert to be calumnies, they declare, that if
+neither the voice of justice, the dictates of the law, the principles of
+the constitution, nor the suggestions of humanity, can restrain your
+hands from shedding of human blood in such an impious cause, they must
+tell you, “That they never will submit to be hewers of wood, or drawers
+of water for any ministry or nation in the world.” They afterward make a
+proposal, which if duly attended to, may afford a favorable basis for
+negociation—“Place us in the same situation that we were in at the close
+of the last war, and our former harmony will be restored.” The same
+truth was transmitted to some of the ministry, by the late reverend Mr.
+_Whitefield_, before his death, in 1770, at Newburyport, in nearly the
+following words, “Would you have peace and harmony restored through the
+colonies, you must attend to the military phrase, _right about, as you
+were_.” The like sentiment was confirmed by a subsequent letter from
+another quarter, after a designed conference upon the subject with
+_Thomas Cushing_ and _Samuel Adams_, esqrs. of Boston, and _Thomas
+Lynch_, esq. of South-Carolina. The congress conclude their address by
+expressing the utmost regret at their being compelled by the over-ruling
+principles of self-preservation, to adopt measures detrimental to
+numbers of their fellow-subjects in Great-Britain and Ireland, in the
+suspension of their importations from both these kingdoms. They finally
+rest their hope of a restoration of that harmony, friendship, and
+fraternal affection between all the inhabitants of his majesty’s
+kingdoms and territories, so ardently wished for by every true and
+honest American, upon the magnanimity and justice of the British nation,
+in furnishing a parliament of such wisdom, independence, and public
+spirit as may save the violated rights of the whole empire, from the
+devices of wicked ministers and evil counsellors, whether in or out of
+office.
+
+Congress, in their memorial to the inhabitants of British America,
+inform the colonies, that they have diligently, deliberately, and
+calmly, enquired into all the measures which have excited the present
+disturbances; and that upon the whole they find themselves reduced to
+the disagreeable alternative of being silent, or betraying the innocent,
+or of speaking out, and censuring those they wish to revere. They prefer
+the course dictated by honesty, and a regard for the welfare of their
+country. After stating and examining the several laws which have been
+passed, and the measures which have been pursued with respect to
+America, since the conclusion of the late war to the present period,
+they enquire into the motives for the particular hostility against the
+town of Boston and province of Massachusetts Bay; though the behavior of
+the people in other colonies, has been in equal opposition to the power
+assumed by parliament; notwithstanding which no step had been taken
+against any of them by government. This they represent as an artful
+systematic line of conduct, concealing several designs, adding, “It is
+expected that the province of the Massachusetts Bay will be irritated
+into some violent action that may displease the rest of the continent,
+or that may induce the people of Great-Britain to approve the meditated
+vengeance of an imprudent and exasperated ministry. If the unexampled
+pacific temper of that province shall disappoint this part of the plan,
+it is hoped the other colonies will be so far intimidated as to desert
+their brethren suffering in a common cause, and that thus disunited, all
+may be subdued.” They proceed to state the importance of the trust which
+has been reposed in them, and the manner in which they have discharged
+it; and deeply deplore the necessity which pressed them to an immediate
+interruption of commerce, and apologize with saying, “We are driven by
+the hands of violence into unexperienced and unexpected public
+convulsions, and are contending for freedom so often contended for by
+our ancestors.” “The people of England,” say they, “will soon have an
+opportunity of declaring their sentiments concerning our cause. In their
+piety, generosity, and good sense, we repose high confidence, and cannot
+upon a review of past events, be persuaded that _they_, the defenders of
+true religion, and the assertors of the rights of mankind, will take
+part against their affectionate protestant brethren in the colonies, in
+favor of our open and their own secret enemies, whose intrigues for
+several years past have been wholly exercised in sapping the foundations
+of civil and religious liberty.” Toward the close, they have these
+words, “We think ourselves bound in duty to observe to you, that the
+schemes agitated against these colonies have been so conducted, as to
+render it prudent that you should extend your views to the most unhappy
+events, and be in all respects prepared for every contingency.”
+
+The address of congress to his majesty, is clothed in the habit of an
+humble petition, wherein they beg leave to lay their grievances before
+the throne. After an enumeration of them, they implore his clemency for
+protection against them; and impute all their distresses, dangers, and
+fears, to the destructive system of colony administration adopted since
+the conclusion of the last war. They express their apprehension, that as
+his majesty enjoys the signal distinction of reigning over freemen, the
+language of freemen cannot be displeasing; adding, “Your royal
+indignation, we hope, will rather fall on those designing and dangerous
+men, who, daringly interposing themselves between your royal person and
+your faithful subjects, and for several years past incessantly employed
+to dissolve the bonds of society, by abusing your majesty’s authority,
+misrepresenting your American subjects and prosecuting the most
+desperate and irritating projects of oppression, have at length
+compelled us, by the force of accumulated injuries, too severe to be any
+longer tolerable, to disturb your majesty’s repose by our complaints.”
+They beg leave to assure his majesty, that in regard to defraying the
+charge of the administration of justice and the support of civil
+government, such provision has been and will be made, as has been and
+shall be judged, by the legislature of the several colonies, just and
+suitable to their respective circumstances; and that for the defence,
+protection and security of the colonies, their militias, if properly
+regulated as they earnestly desire may be immediately done, would be
+sufficient, at least in times of peace; and in case of war his faithful
+colonists will be ready and willing, as they ever have been when
+constitutionally required, to demonstrate their loyalty, by exerting
+their most strenuous efforts in granting supplies and raising forces.
+They say, “We ask but for peace, liberty and safety. We wish not a
+diminution of the prerogative, nor do we solicit the grant of any new
+right in our favor. Your royal authority over us, and our connection
+with Great-Britain, we shall always carefully and zealously endeavor to
+support and maintain.”—“We present this petition only to obtain redress
+of grievances and relief from fears and jealousies, occasioned by the
+system of statutes and regulations adopted since the close of the late
+war, by the abolition of which system, the harmony between Great-Britain
+and these colonies, will be immediately restored. In the magnanimity and
+justice of your majesty and parliament we confide for a redress of our
+other grievances, trusting, that when the causes of our apprehensions
+are removed, our future conduct will prove us not unworthy of the
+regard, we have been accustomed in our happier days to enjoy. For,
+appealing to that Being who searches thoroughly the hearts of his
+creatures, we solemnly profess, that our councils have been influenced
+by no other motive, than a dread of impending destruction.” They implore
+his majesty in the most solemn manner, as the loving father of his
+people, connected by the same bands of law, loyalty, faith and blood,
+not to suffer the transcendant relation, formed by these ties to be
+further violated, in uncertain expectation of effects, that if attained,
+can never compensate for the calamities through which they must be
+gained. They most earnestly beseech him, that his royal authority and
+interposition may be used for their relief; and that a gracious answer
+may be given to their petition. The close is a prayer, that his majesty
+may enjoy every felicity through a long and glorious reign, and that his
+descendants may inherit his prosperity and dominions till time shall be
+no more.
+
+The congress, a week after resolving upon the association, an address to
+the people of Great-Britain, a memorial to the inhabitants of the
+colonies, and an address to his majesty, further resolved, “That an
+address be prepared to the people of Quebec, and letters to the colonies
+of St. John’s, Nova-Scotia, Georgia, East and West Florida, who have not
+deputies to represent them in this congress.”
+
+Their address to the French inhabitants in Canada, discovers the most
+dexterous management, and the most able method of application to the
+temper and passions of the parties, whom they endeavor to gain. They
+state the right they had, upon becoming English subjects, to the
+inestimable benefits of the English constitution; and that this right
+was further confirmed by the royal proclamation in 1763, plighting the
+public faith for their full enjoyment of those advantages. They impute
+to succeeding ministers an audacious and cruel abuse of the royal
+authority, in withholding from them the fruition of the irrevocable
+rights, to which they were thus justly entitled. They undertake to
+explain to them, some of the most important branches of that form of
+government from which they are debarred; and in so doing, quote passages
+from their countryman Montesquieu, whom they artfully adopt as a judge
+and an irrefragable authority upon this occasion. They then proceed to
+specify and explain, under several distinct heads, the principal rights
+to which the people are entitled by the English constitution; and these
+rights they truly say, defend the poor from the rich, the weak from the
+powerful, the industrious from the rapacious, the peaceable from the
+violent, the tenants from the lords, and all from their superiors.
+
+They attempt pointing out numberless deformities in the Quebec bill, and
+placing them in those points of view which should render it odious to
+mankind. They renew their applications to the passions and partiality of
+the Canadians; and at length introduce Montesquieu as addressing them
+thus: “Seize the opportunity presented to you by Providence itself. You
+are a small people compared with those who with open arms invite you
+into a fellowship. A moment’s reflection should convince you, which will
+be most for your interest and happiness, to have all the rest of
+North-America your unalterable friends, or your inveterate enemies. Your
+province is the only link wanting to complete the bright and strong
+chain of union. Nature has joined your country to theirs. Do you join
+your political interests. The value and extent of the advantages
+tendered to you are immense. Heaven grant that you may discover them to
+be blessings after they have bid you an eternal adieu.” They endeavor to
+obviate the jealousies and prejudices which might arise from the
+difference of their religious principles, by instancing the case of the
+Swiss Cantons, whose union is composed of Roman Catholic and Protestant
+states, living in the utmost concord and peace with one another, and
+thereby enabled to defy and defeat every tyrant that had invaded them.
+The congress, upon this article, appear to have winked out of sight
+their complaint about eatablishing the Roman Catholic religion in
+Quebec, and to expect that it would be unknown to the Canadians, or give
+them no umbrage. They declare, that they do not ask them to commence
+hostilities against the government of their common sovereign, but only
+invite them to consult their own glory and welfare, and to unite with
+them in no social compact. They conclude by informing them, that the
+congress had, with universal pleasure, and an unanimous vote, resolved,
+That they should consider the violation of their rights, by the act for
+altering the government of their province, as a violation of their own;
+and that they, should be invited to accede to their confederation.
+
+Before this address was perfected and signed, congress resolved, [Oct.
+21.] “That the seizing, or attempting to seize any person in America, in
+order to transport such person beyond the sea, for trial of offences
+committed in America, being against law, will justify and ought to meet
+with resistance and reprisal.” They have also agreed, that another
+congress shall be held on the tenth day of May next, unless the redress
+of grievances be obtained before that time.
+
+The general congress having finished their deliberations, dissolved
+themselves [Oct. 26.] The impartial world will go near to acknowledge,
+that the petitions and addresses from the congress have been executed
+with uncommon energy, skill, and ability; and that abstractedly
+considered, in respect to vigor of mind, strength of sentiment, and
+patriotic language, they would not disgrace any assembly whatsoever. The
+studied attention that congress have paid to the Massachusetts Bay and
+its distressed capital, will both console and invigorate the
+inhabitants. Many, however, of the congressional acts were neither
+carried unanimously, nor without much debate. Mr. Galloway, of
+Pennsylvania, and Mr. Duane, of New-York, inclined to the side of
+ministry. The former became a member at the earnest solicitation of the
+assembly, and refused compliance till they had given him instructions
+agreeable to his own mind, as the rule of his conduct. These
+instructions they suffered him to draw up: they were briefly to state
+the rights and the grievances of America, and to propose a plan of
+amicable accommodation of the differences between Great-Britain and the
+colonies, and of a perpetual union. September the twenty-eighth a plan
+was proposed by him, which was debated a whole day, when the question
+was carried, six colonies to five, that it should be resumed and further
+considered; but it at length fell through. The ten resolutions which the
+congress came to in their declaration, expressing their indubitable
+rights and liberties, met with very considerable opposition. Mr. Duane,
+and others who drew with him, perplexed the proposals made by the high
+sons of liberty, so that the congress did not come to a single
+resolution for more than a fortnight, neither in stating their rights
+nor their grievances.—When six days before that declaration, on October
+the eighth, the resolution was passed, “That the congress approve the
+opposition of the inhabitants of the Massachusetts Bay to the execution
+of the late acts; and if the same shall be attempted, &c.” Galloway and
+Duane not only opposed, but wanted to have their protests entered; which
+being refused, on their return from congress they gave each other a
+certificate, declaring their opposition to that question, as they
+thought it a treasonable one.[112] In some stages of their proceedings,
+the danger of a rupture with Britain was urged as a plea for certain
+concessions. Upon this Mr. S. Adams rose up, and among other things
+said, in substance, “I should advise persisting in our struggle for
+liberty, though it was revealed from Heaven that 999 were to perish, and
+only one of a thousand to survive and retain his liberty. One such
+freeman must possess more virtue, and enjoy more happiness than a
+thousand slaves; and let him propagate his like, and transmit to them
+what he hath so nobly preserved.” It was a flight of patriotism, serving
+to show the temper of the speaker; but the sentiment is so hyperbolical,
+as to throw it far beyond the reach of practice. Mr. S. Adams having
+seen an happy issue to the important deliberations of the general
+congress, after his return repaired to the Massachusetts provincial
+congress, to aid in their deliberations.
+
+General Gage, by the advice of his new council, issued writs for the
+holding of a general assembly at Salem, on the 5th of October. The
+events which afterward took place made him think it expedient to
+counteract the writs, by a proclamation for suspending the meeting of
+the members returned. But the legality of the proclamation was called
+into question; and the new members, to the number of 90, met according
+to the precepts, on the day and at the place appointed. Having waited
+that day, [Oct. 5.] without the presence of the governor, or any
+substitute for him, to administer the oaths and open the session, on the
+next day they appointed a committee to consider the proclamation; and on
+the third, resolved themselves into a provincial congress, to be joined
+by such others as have been or shall be chosen, to take into
+consideration the dangerous and alarming situation of public affairs.
+The following day they met in provincial congress, and adjourned to
+Concord, about 20 miles from Charlestown, and when there, chose Mr.
+Hancock president. They proceeded to appoint a committee to wait upon
+the governor with a remonstrance, in which they apologize for their
+meeting, from the distressed state of the colony; express the grievous
+apprehensions of the people; assert that the rigor of the Boston
+port-bill is exceeded by the manner in which it is carried into
+execution; and complain of the late laws, and the hostile preparations
+on Boston Neck. They conclude with adjuring him to desist immediately
+from the construction of the fortress at the entrance into Boston, and
+to restore that pass to its natural state. The governor was involved in
+some difficulty as to giving them an answer, for he could not
+acknowledge the legality of their assembly. Necessity however prevailed.
+He expressed great indignation at the idea’s being formed, that the
+lives, liberties, or property of any people, except avowed enemies,
+could be in danger from English troops; and observed, that
+notwithstanding the enmity shown to the troops, by withholding from them
+almost every thing necessary for their preservation, they had not yet
+discovered the resentment which might justly have been expected to arise
+from such hostile treatment. He reminded them, that while they
+complained of alterations made in their charter by acts of parliament,
+they were themselves, by their present assembling, subverting that
+charter, and now acting in direct violation of their own constitution;
+he therefore warned them of the rocks they were upon, and to desist from
+such illegal and unconstitutional proceedings. But they were not in the
+least diverted from prosecuting their measures. They adjourned to and
+met at Cambridge [Oct. 17.]
+
+[Oct. 21.] A committee was appointed to draw up a plan for the immediate
+defence of the province. It was concluded to raise and enlist a number
+of minute-men, now for the first time so called, from their being to
+turn out with their arms, at a minute’s warning. Upon the debate for
+raising money to purchace military articles, a thousand pounds lawful (a
+fourth less than sterling) was moved for and seconded; then two
+thousand. The country members, in common, had no conception of the
+expences attending warlike operations; and were dreadfully afraid of
+voting away their own and their constituents money, however necessary
+the expenditure of it. They are generally persons of good understanding
+in matters within their own sphere, but are not competent judges of
+those that lie without it; and being accustomed only to small sums,
+startle at the mention of those which to them have the comparative
+appearance of enormously large; and yet it is needful to humor their
+want of scientific knowledge, to prevent disgust and obtain their
+support. Of this the more intelligent members of the assembly were
+sensible—Therefore the debate was closed by appointing a committee to
+give in an estimate of the articles wanted, together with their cost;
+this being done, the committee of safety were empowered to assemble the
+militia, when they shall judge the same necessary for the defence of the
+inhabitants of the province; and the committee of supplies to purchase
+ammunition, ordnance, stores, &c. not exceeding the value of £.20,837
+lawful, or £.15,627, 15s. sterling—a glorious sum with which to oppose
+the power and riches of Great-Britain! The committee of safety and the
+committee of supplies, consist of different persons, and are intended
+for different purposes. The first, beside being empowered to assemble
+the militia, are invested with other authority for the safety of the
+province, and are to recommend to the committee of supplies the
+purchasing of such articles as may be deemed necessary. The last are to
+assist the committee of safety not only by purchasing supplies, but by
+affording them help for executing the measures which may be thought by
+them requisite for the public benefit. Both are to sit and to continue
+to do business when there is a recess of the provincial congress, as
+also when none existeth. It is resolved [Oct. 25.] That all matters
+shall be kept private; but in such a numerous assembly it is next to
+impossible to effect it. Were all equally true to the same cause, each
+will not have the like power of retaining a secret.
+
+[October 27.] The honorable Jedediah Pribble, the honorable Artemas
+Ward, and colonel Pomeroy, all of whom have seen some service in the
+last war, were elected general officers, to have the command of the
+minute-men and militia, in case they should be called out to action.
+
+[October 29.] The provincial congress adjourned to November 23.
+
+As winter approached, the governor ordered temporary barracks to be
+erected for the troops. But such was the dislike to their being provided
+for in any manner, that the select men and committees obliged the
+workmen of the town to quit their employment, for fear of subjecting
+themselves to the resentment of their countrymen. The governor had as
+little success in endeavoring to procure carpenters from New-York; so
+that it has been with the greatest difficulty that he has gotten those
+temporary lodgments erected. He has endeavored also to procure some
+winter covering from that city; but the merchants have refused complying
+with any part of the order, and returned for answer, “They never will
+supply any article for the benefit of men who are sent as enemies to
+their country.” The general had thoughts at one time, of erecting a fort
+upon Beacon-hill. The Boston committee obtained the plan of it, waited
+upon him, and informed him that they heard he had such a design, and
+that if he proceeded to execute it, he would get himself into
+difficulties. He would not own that he had any such intention, but
+attempted rather to make them believe the contrary; on which they
+produced the plan, and told him it was the same that was presented to
+him the night before.
+
+On the other hand, the Massachusetts committee of safety; were not
+inattentive to their duty. They recommended to the committee of supplies
+[Nov. 2, 8, 14, 20.] the procuring of pork, flour, rice, and peas, and
+the depositing of the same partly at Worcester and partly at Concord.
+They further advised the procuring of all arms and ammunition that could
+be got from the neighboring provinces; and of spades, pick-axes,
+bill-hooks, iron shovels and pots, mess-bowls, cannon, ball, &c. &c.
+
+Every thing now served to increase the mutual apprehension and animosity
+between the government and the people. Those of Boston professed to be
+under no small terror, from an apprehension of danger to their property,
+liberties, and lives. The soldiers, on the other hand, considered
+themselves in the midst of enemies. Each side made profession of the
+best intentions in the world for its own part, and showed the greatest
+suspicion of the other. In this state of doubt and profession, matters
+were made still worse by a measure which seems not of sufficient
+importance in its consequences, to justify its having been hazarded at
+so critical a season. This was the landing of a detachment of sailors by
+night, from the ships of war in the harbour, who spiked up all the
+cannon upon one of the batteries belonging to the town.
+
+In the mean time, through the disposition and promptitude of the people,
+the resolutions and recommendations of the provincial congress, had all
+the weight and efficacy of laws. At length the governor was induced to
+issue a proclamation [Nov. 10.] in which they were charged with
+proceedings generally understood as nearly tantamount to treason and
+rebellion. The inhabitants were accordingly prohibited in the king’s
+name, from complying in any degree with the requisitions,
+recommendations, directions, or resolves of that unlawful assembly.
+
+[Nov. 23.] When the provincial congress met again, having Mr. Samuel
+Adams present with them, they pushed their preparations for hostile
+opposition. These exertions suited not the feelings of many in congress.
+Through timidity they began to sicken at heart, and upon the plea of
+sickness begged leave to return home, and were indulged. Mr. S. Adams
+penetrated the cause of their complaint; and in order to stop the
+epidemical distemper, expressed his great willingness, that when members
+were not well, they should be allowed to return, but proposed that they
+should be enjoined, upon getting back, to inform the towns that they
+were no longer represented, that so others might be sent to supply their
+absence. The proposal soon cured the malady; for the disordered chose to
+remain in congress rather than incur the displeasure of their
+constituents, and be supplanted by new successors.
+
+The provincial congress resolved upon getting in readiness 12,000 men,
+to act upon any emergency; and directed that a quarter of the militia
+should be enlisted as minute-men, who were allowed the liberty of
+choosing their own officers, and were to receive pay. They sent persons
+to New-Hampshire, Rhode-Island, and Connecticut, to acquaint them with
+what was doing, and to request that they would prepare their respective
+quotas to make up an army of 20,000 men when wanted. Upon this a number
+of gentlemen were sent from these colonies, to consult and settle with a
+committee of about twenty, chosen by the congress for the purpose. There
+was a difficulty about fixing what should be the precise period for
+opposing general Gage’s troops; at length it was determined, that they
+should be opposed whenever they marched out with their baggage,
+ammunition, and artillery; for this would carry in it an apparent
+intention of acting hostilely in support of British measures.
+
+[Dec. 6.] A committee was appointed to correspond with the inhabitants
+of Canada; and it was resolved, that the following letter be addressed
+to the several ministers of the gospel, within this province:
+
+
+  “REV. SIR,
+
+We cannot but acknowledge the goodness of Heaven, in constantly
+supplying us with preachers of the gospel, whose concern has been the
+temporal and spiritual happiness of this people. In a day like this,
+when all the friends of civil and religious liberty are exerting
+themselves to deliver this country from its present calamities, we
+cannot but place great hopes in an order of men who have ever
+distinguished themselves in their country’s cause; and do therefore
+recommend to the ministers of the gospel, in the several towns and other
+places in this colony, that they assist us in avoiding that dreadful
+slavery with which we are now threatened.”
+
+
+The ministers of New-England being mostly congregationalists, are from
+that circumstance, in a professional way, more attached and habituated
+to the principles of liberty than if they had spiritual superiors to
+lord it over them, and were in hopes of possessing in their turn,
+through the gift of government, the seat of power. They oppose arbitrary
+rule in civil concerns, from the love of freedom, as well as from a
+desire of guarding against its introduction into religious matters. The
+patriots, for years back have availed themselves greatly of their
+assistance. Two sermons have been preached annually for a length of
+time, the one on general election day, the last Wednesday in May, when
+the new general court have been used to meet, according to charter, and
+elect the counsellors for the ensuing year; the other some little while
+after, on the artillery election day, when the officers are reelected,
+or new officers are chosen. On these occasions political subjects are
+deemed very proper; but it is expected that they be treated in a decent,
+serious, and instructive manner. The general election preacher has been
+elected alternately by the council and house of assembly. The sermon is
+stiled _the Election Sermon_, and is printed. Every representative has a
+copy for himself, and generally one or more for the minister or
+ministers of his town. As the patriots have prevailed, the preachers of
+each sermon have been the zealous friends of liberty; and the passages
+most adapted to promote and spread the love of it, have been selected,
+and circulated far and wide by means of news-papers, and read with
+avidity and degree of veneration, on account of the preacher and his
+election to the service of the day. Commendations, both public and
+private, have not been wanting to help on the design. Thus by their
+labors in the pulpit, and by furnishing the prints with occasional
+essays, the ministers have forwarded and strengthened, and that not a
+little, the opposition to the exercise of that parliamentary claim of
+right to bind the colonies in all cases whatever.
+
+The clergy of this colony are as virtuous, sensible, and learned a set
+of men, as will probably be found in any part of the globe of equal size
+and equally populous. The first settlers were early attentive to the
+providing of suitable persons to fill their pulpits with dignity. They
+saw the importance of it, and in 1636 the general court gave some
+hundred pounds toward a public school at Newton; but Mr. John Harvard, a
+worthy minister of Charlestown, dying in 1638, and bequeathing between
+seven and eight hundred pounds to the same use, the school took the name
+of Harvard College by an order of court, and the town upon the occasion
+changed its name for that of Cambridge.—This college has been encouraged
+ever since, and is the first upon the continent. It is the _alma mater_
+to whom the youth of this colony in particular, are sent, whether
+designed for the pulpit, the bar, or other callings. Here they receive
+the rudiments of those qualifications by which they are enabled to serve
+their country in a civil or sacred department. The salaries of the
+ministers are moderate, but in general sufficient for their support, by
+the aid of good œconomy. They cannot approve of often bringing politics
+into the pulpit, yet they apprehend it to be right upon special
+occasions. Who but must admit, that “it is certainly the duty of the
+clergy to accommodate their discourses to the times; to preach against
+such sins as are most prevalent, and to recommend such virtues as are
+most wanted. For example, if exorbitant ambition and venality are
+predominant, ought they not to warn their hearers against the vices? If
+public spirit is much wanted, should they not inculcate this great
+virtue? If the rights and duties of magistrates and subjects are
+disputed, should they not explain them, show their nature, ends,
+limitations, and restrictions?” You have frequently remarked, that
+though the partizans of arbitrary power will freely censure that
+preacher who speaks boldly for the liberties of the people, they will
+admire as an excellent divine, the parson whose discourse is wholly in
+the opposite strain, and teaches that magistrates have a divine right
+for doing wrong, and are to be implicitly obeyed; men professing
+christianity, as if the religion of the blessed Jesus bound them tamely
+to part with their natural and social rights, and slavishly to bow their
+neck to any tyrant; as if Paul was faulty in standing up for his Roman
+privileges, that he might escape a scourging, or falling a sacrifice to
+the malice of his countrymen, when he appealed unto Cæsar.
+
+[Dec. 8.] The provincial congress choose colonel Thomas and colonel
+Heath, additional generals, and soon after dissolved themselves, that
+they might be at home in time to keep thanksgiving with their families.
+It has been long a custom in the colony to have a fast day in the
+spring, and a thanksgiving late in the fall of the year, or in the
+beginning of winter, when the heads of families collect their children
+around them; and beside attending the religious exercises of the day,
+feast upon a plentiful though not a splendid table, and are innocently
+merry. The observation of this day they call “_a keeping thanksgiving_.”
+The appointment of both days, belongs in an orderly way, to the
+governor; but in these extraordinary times the provincial congress
+appointed the public thansgiving, on which among other enumerated
+blessings, a particular acknowledgment was to be made to the Almighty,
+for the union which so remarkably prevails in all the colonies.
+
+The assembly of Pennsylvania met toward the close of the year, and were
+the first legal body of representatives that ritified unanimously all
+the acts of the general congress, and appointed delegates to represent
+them in the new congress, to be held the ensuing May. It is thought that
+they were in a great measure dragged into it, from the fear of a
+provincial convention.
+
+No sooner did they receive at Rhode-Island the account of the royal
+proclamation, prohibiting the exportation of military stores from
+Britain, but the people seized upon and removed from the batteries about
+the harbour, above forty cannon, of different sizes. The assembly also
+passed resolutions for procuring arms and military stores by every mean,
+and from every quarter in which they could be obtained, as well as for
+training and arming the inhabitants.
+
+When copies of these resolutions and of the proclamation, arrived at
+Portsmouth, in New-Hampshire, the people of the province were spirited
+up to make their first hostile movement. Though governor Wentworth’s
+influence could not prevent their appointing deputies, holding a
+convention at Exeter, and choosing delegates for the continental
+congress, yet he had the address to moderate their tempers, and to keep
+them from acts of violence. But the example of their neighbors, and the
+alarming situation of affairs, at length roused them to uncommon
+exertions. [Dec. 14.] More than four hundred men collected, and beset
+his majesty’s castle at Portsmouth. Captain Cochran, who commanded,
+ordered three four pounders to be fired on them, and then the small
+arms; before he could be ready to fire again, the fort was stormed on
+all quarters, and the assailants immediately secured both him and his
+men, and kept them prisoners about an hour and a half, during which they
+broke open the powder-house, took all the powder away, except one
+barrel, and having put it in boats and sent it off, released him from
+his confinement.
+
+The hardy inhabitants of Marblehead, used to all the toils and dangers
+of a sea-faring life, being out of employ, have attended to military
+exercise for hours, three days in a week, and will soon constitute a
+fine regiment of soldiers. The gentlemen of the place have encouraged
+them by their own example, and made it profitable to them. Something
+similar has been practised at Salem and other towns. The militia of the
+colony will, therefore, acquire some knowledge of arms before they are
+called to engage in actual service, should that unhappily be the issue
+of present measures.
+
+The Virginia militia officers, under the command of lord Dunmore,
+convened at Fort Gower, on November the fifth, have shown what may be
+expected from them; for though they resolved to bear the most faithful
+allegiance to his majesty, they declared that the love of liberty and
+attachment to the real interests and just rights of America, outweighed
+every other consideration, and that they would exert every power within
+them for the defence of American liberty, when regularly called forth by
+the unanimous voice of their countrymen.
+
+Barnstable, in New-England, and Ridgefield, in Connecticut, have
+distinguished themselves in adopting measures different from the other
+towns in their respective colonies. But the New-York representatives
+have given the greatest disgust. After the assembly’s taking into
+consideration the regulations agreed upon at the grand congress,
+respecting commerce, they rejected the same. This however was thought to
+be compensated for, by the late resolution of the Pennsylvania
+convention [Jan. 23, 1775.] wherein they have declared, “That if the
+petition of the continental congress should be disregarded, and the
+British administration should determine by force to effect a submission
+to the late arbitrary acts of the British parliament; in such a
+situation, we hold it our indispensable duty to resist such force, and
+at every hazard to defend the rights and liberties of America.” The
+convention likewise recommended in particular the making of salt,
+gun-powder, salt-petre, and steel. Among the many sons of liberty of
+which they were composed, Mr. Charles Thomson was eminent for inflexible
+spirit; but Mr. Thomas Mifflin was as the very soul of the capital and
+province. Such are his natural and acquired accomplishments, his
+unwearied exertions, his zeal, his address, his sprightliness, that he
+enlightens and invigorates every thing around him.
+
+The inhabitants of Maryland were no less zealous on the present critical
+occasion, than those of the most active provinces. They were all in
+motion, forming county meetings, entering into associations, choosing
+committees, and recommending measures for carrying the resolutions of
+the continental congress into effectual execution. The convention has
+appointed a sum of money for the purchase of arms and ammunition. Every
+person who refuses to contribute to the purchase, is deemed an enemy to
+his country. Many of the principal gentlemen are ambitious of appearing
+in arms to defend its liberties. They have taken the power of the
+militia out of the hands of the governor, and established it by their
+own authority, for the defence of the Massachusetts as well as of
+themselves; and thus have shown to all the world, their approbation of
+New-England measures. The lower counties of the Delaware have acted in
+like manner.
+
+[Jan. 27.] The New-Hampshire assembly, in answer to a letter from
+Maryland, has gone further than ever before, in saying, “You may depend
+upon the ready concurrence of this house, with the measures thought
+necessary to be pursued by the other colonies in the great cause of
+liberty.”
+
+But the province did not trust to the complection of the assembly. A
+convention of deputies was appointed by the several towns, and held at
+Exeter, when the proceedings of the continental congress were
+unanimously approved; and members chosen to represent them at the
+ensuing one, two days before the assembly gave their answer.
+
+Most of the New-Yorkers accommodate themselves to the measures appointed
+by the general congress.
+
+The general committee in Charleston, South-Carolina, upon receiving an
+account of these measures, immediately convened a provincial congress,
+and procured a return of representatives from every parish and district
+in the colony, by which mean the body consisted of more than two
+hundred, while the constitutional assembly amounts to no more than
+forty-nine. The increase of the representatives naturally served the
+cause of the country, by engaging a greater number of leaders in support
+of it. This first provincial congress met on the eleventh of January;
+they have unanimously approved the proceedings of the general congress,
+and resolved to carry them into execution. Committees of inspection and
+observation have also been appointed, whose business it is to see that
+the public resolutions are universally obeyed, that so they may not be
+broken through the selfishness of individuals. This is the prevailing
+mode of guarding against such selfishness in every colony.
+
+From the former success of non-importation agreements, and a belief that
+the trade of America is indispensably necessary to Britain, it is
+generally hoped and expected in the southern states, that the obnoxious
+acts will be repealed. They have no idea of an appeal to the sword,
+notwithstanding all the military parade that exists. A bloodless
+self-denying opposition is the whole of their real intention, and all
+the sacrifice that they imagine will be required. Similar sentiments
+prevail among great numbers in the Massachusetts; who, while they are
+preparing for war, expect that present appearances will never terminate
+in it; for that Great-Britain will not fight with her best customers,
+but will relax and accommodate when they find the Americans absolutely
+determined to use their arms rather than submit.
+
+Persons who discover great anxiety about the continuance of trade, are
+considered as selfish, preferring private interest to the good of the
+country; and under this thought, the intemperate zeal of the populace in
+some places, transports them beyond the limits of moderation, to apply
+singular punishments to individuals who counteract the general sense of
+the community.
+
+There is however to appearance an amazing agreement through the
+continent; and it may be imagined, that the inhabitants of the twelve
+colonies have but one heart, and but one understanding. Assemblies,
+conventions, congresses, towns, cities, private clubs and circles, are
+seemingly animated by one great, wise, active, and noble spirit—one
+masterly soul, enlivening one vigorous body. All their acts tend to the
+same point, the supporting of the measures of the continental congress.
+But be assured there are great numbers in every colony, who disapprove
+of these measures—a few comparatively, from principle and a persuasion
+that the same are wrong, and that they ought to submit to the mother
+country—some through attachment to the late governmental authority
+exercised among them—many from self-interest—but the bulk for fear of
+the mischievous consequences likely to follow. The professing friends of
+liberty have acted in a spirited manner, while the others have lain
+still. Such as have discovered a disposition to oppose popular measures,
+have not been supported, and therefore have declined making further
+efforts, and absented themselves from town and other meetings. The
+popular cry being against them, they have sought personal peace and
+safety in remaining quiet. But could the truth be ascertained, it would
+probably be discovered, that in most of the town and other meetings,
+even in New-England, far more than half the parties having a right to
+attend, from various causes were absent; and that there were a great
+many among the absentees, who were such, because they knew that matters
+would be carried at such meetings contrary to their own sentiments. Not
+only so, but it may be reasonably supposed, and time may prove, that
+several in assemblies, conventions, and congresses, voted against their
+own opinion, to secure themselves from resentment, and to promote their
+present interest.
+
+An inclination has appeared in several of the governmental gentlemen now
+in Boston, to attempt opening the court at Worcester, and to support it
+by the aid of two regiments. It has been the subject of conversation.
+When the proposal of marching them came to be considered in council, it
+was laid aside. The governor was well pleased with the determination. He
+certainly does not wish to bring on a rupture.
+
+Now let me conclude with giving you a picture of the Massachusetts
+colony, which you will be inclined to pronounce an uncommon and
+astonishing curiosity. Some hundred thousand people are in a state of
+nature, and yet as still and peaceable at present, as ever they were
+when government was in full vigor. We have neither legislators, nor
+magistrates, nor executive officers. We have no officers but military
+ones; of these we have a multitude, chosen by the people, and exercising
+them with more authority and spirit than ever any did who had
+commissions from a governor. The inhabitants are determined never to
+submit to the act destroying their charter, and are every where devoting
+themselves to arms. To force upon them a form of government to which
+they are absolutely averse, may not be within the omnipotence of a
+British parliament. The attempt has produced a suspension of all legal
+authority, and yet individuals enjoy the same security as before, even
+when they differ from the public sentiment, have they the prudence to
+moderate their tempers and observe a neutrality. By accommodating
+themselves so far to the times, they are safe at home and abroad.
+
+The fortitude with which the town of Boston supports its present
+distresses, and the determination it discovers to endure as much as
+human nature can, rather than betray the American cause, and endanger
+the liberties of posterity, will secure it the encomiums of future
+generations. Not a town or city in all the colonies, would have been
+likely to have exhibited so glorious a spectacle, had it been called out
+to a similar trial; and all the friends of American liberty through the
+continent, may congratulate themselves that the storm of ministerial
+vengeance has fallen first upon the capital of the Massachusetts, as in
+consequence of it they have enjoyed the opportunity of providing against
+the worst that may be attempted, in order to reduce them to subjection.
+
+
+
+
+                               LETTER XI.
+
+
+                                                _London, March 3, 1775._
+
+A strange supineness prevailed for some time after my last was closed,
+among the great body of the English nation; and the colony contests were
+little regarded. Numbers flattered themselves, that as things had
+formerly so often appeared at the verge of a rupture, without actually
+arriving at it, some means would be found for accommodating the present
+dispute. The opinion also was circulated, that a continuance of
+resolution persisted in, would certainly put an end to the contest,
+which (it was said) had been nourished wholly by former concessions;
+people in general were therefore inclined to trust the trial of
+perseverance and resolution to a ministry who valued themselves upon
+these qualities. The times have been highly favorable to any purpose
+which only required the concurrence of the parliament and the
+acquiescence of the public. Administration has taken advantage of these
+circumstances [Sept. 30, 1774.] and the late parliament has been
+dissolved a twelvemonth before the expected time. This may be meant as a
+preparatory step to the most coercive measures with America; but in a
+new house of commons, ministry will be left at large, to choose or alter
+their line of conduct as incidents may vary, and if necessary can throw
+all the odium of the late laws upon the former parliament.
+
+[Nov. 30.] His majesty in his speech informed the new one, that a most
+daring spirit of disobedience to the law, still unhappily prevailed in
+the Massachusetts, and had broken forth in fresh violences of a criminal
+nature; that these proceedings had been encouraged in other colonies,
+and unwarrantable attempts been made to obstruct the commerce of the
+kingdom, by unlawful combinations; that such measures had been taken,
+and such orders given, as were judged most proper for carrying the laws
+into execution; and that they might depend upon a firm resolution to
+withstand every attempt to weaken the supreme authority of the
+legislature over all the dominions of the crown, his majesty being
+assured of receiving their support while acting upon these principles.
+
+The proposed address in the house of commons, produced a considerable
+debate; and the minister was reminded of the mighty effects he had
+predicted from the late acts against America—They were to humble that
+whole continent in the dust, without further trouble, and the punishment
+of Boston was to strike an universal panic on all the colonies; that
+refractory town would be totally abandoned, and instead of obtaining
+relief, a dread of the same fate would even prevent the appearances of
+pity. But the address was carried, without any amendment, by a majority
+of more than three to one.
+
+That from the house of lords was couched in strong terms, and was warmly
+debated. It was rendered memorable by a protest, thought to be the first
+upon an address, and which was very pointed; it concluded with the
+following remarkable declaration: “But whatever may be the mischievous
+designs, or the inconsiderate temerity which leads others to this
+desperate course, we wish to be known as persons who have disapproved of
+measures so injurious in their past effects and their future tendency,
+and who are not in haste, without enquiry or information, to commit
+ourselves in declarations which may precipitate our country into all the
+calamities of a civil war.”[113] The address was carried by a majority
+of 63 to 13.
+
+Notwithstanding the hostile tone of the speech, and the great majority
+that supported the addresses, there appeared an irresolution on the side
+of ministry; and previous to the Christmas recess they seemed evidently
+to shrink from all contest upon American subjects. The national
+estimates were entirely formed upon a peace establishment; and the
+minister of the naval department publicly asserted in the house of
+lords, that he knew it would be fully sufficient for reducing the
+colonies to obedience. He spoke with the greatest contempt both of the
+power and courage of the Americans; and held that they were not
+disciplined, nor capable of discipline, and that formed of such
+materials, and so indisposed to action, the numbers, of which such
+boasts had been made, would only add to the facility of their defeat.
+
+The establishment will indeed be fully sufficient, if the ministry mean
+to employ the navy only, and to recal the military. Ships may effect
+that with little hazard and expence, which if once attempted by
+soldiers, may plunge the nation into enormous disbursements, and yet not
+be accomplished. A few ships of the line stationed singly near the
+capital ports of the colonies, and a number of frigates employed as
+cruisers to stop the Americans from sending any vessels to sea; and this
+measure continued, would at length weary out the inhabitants of the
+towns and cities upon the sea-coast of the continent, and induce one or
+other of them to submit; and if but one link of the chain give way, the
+whole would soon come to the ground; and were the sea-ports once brought
+to adjust the present dispute with administration, the towns in the back
+country might be gradually inclined to the same, whatever may be their
+present apprehensions. The proper application of the navy to the
+American contest, would also exclude all foreign interference.
+
+The congressional proceedings were received before the Christmas recess,
+and ministry were disposed to retract their violent measures and to
+redress American grievances. To this end, application was made, under
+the auspices of the minister, to the body of the American merchants,
+desiring them to frame petitions for the redress of American grievances
+and the restoration of American rights, and promising compliance with
+them, as it was most agreeable to the ministry to repeal the obnoxious
+acts, seemingly in consequence of petitions at home. While this was in
+agitation, letters were received from New-York, assuring that the
+assembly would reject the proceedings of the general congress, and that
+there would be a separation of that colony from the rest. Fresh hopes
+were conceived from the prospect of a division, upon which ministry
+reverted to measures more adapted to their own inclination.[114]
+
+But during the recess, persons began to consider the consequences which
+might follow the congressional proceedings, and a general alarm was
+spread. This produced several meetings of the North-American merchants
+in London and Bristol; and petitions to parliament were prepared and
+agreed upon in both places. But the times were so altered from what they
+were formerly, that no mercantile opposition could prove efficacious by
+endangering the continuance of the ministry.
+
+On the first day of the meeting after the recess, the nobleman at the
+head of the American affairs, laid the papers belonging to his
+department before the lords, on which lord Chatham rose, and expressed
+his utmost dissent and disapprobation of the whole system of American
+measures.
+
+Being in possession at present of your friend Mr. Quincy’s journal,
+wherein he gives a particular account of his lordship’s speech, of the
+copies of several letters sent by himself to America, and of other
+matters, permit me to transcribe from the same, and give you the
+thoughts and expressions of Mr. Quincy, with the dates.
+
+[Nov. 11, 1774.] Viewed Plymouth docks. My ideas of the riches and
+powers of this great nation are increased to a degree I should not have
+believed if it had been predicted to me. I am not in any measure
+reconciled to the British plan of taxing America, but I should with
+cheerfulness accede to a contribution from the colonies (they being the
+sole judges of the time and quantity of their grants) toward the charges
+of the British government.
+
+[Nov. 18.] This morning J. Williams, esq. informed me, that governor
+Hutchinson had repeatedly assured the ministry, that a union of the
+colonies was utterly impracticable; that the people were greatly divided
+among themselves in every colony; and that there could be no doubt but
+that all America would submit; that they must, and would soon. Several
+of the nobility and ministry assured Dr. Franklin of the same facts.
+
+[Nov. 19.] Lord N—— repeatedly said to me, “We must try what we can do
+to support the authority we have claimed over America; if we are
+defective in power, we must sit down contented, and make the best terms
+we can; and nobody then can blame us after we have done our utmost; but
+till we have tried what we can do, we can never be justified in
+receding; and we ought to, and shall be very careful not to judge a
+thing impossible because it may be difficult; nay, we ought to try what
+we can effect, before we can determine upon its impracticability.”
+
+[Nov. 24.] To ——. “The following language hath been reiterated to me in
+various companies,”—“We are afraid of nothing but your division and your
+want of perseverance. Unite and persevere—you must prevail—you must
+triumph.”
+
+“From parliament expect no favor but what proceeds from fear. Depend not
+upon commercial plans for your safety.—Dr. Franklin is an American in
+heart and soul. His ideas are not contracted within the narrow limits of
+exemption from taxes, but are extended upon the broad scale of total
+emancipation.—He is explicit and bold upon the subject.”
+
+[Nov. 26.] Governor P—— assured me, that all the measures agains America
+were planned and pushed on by Bernard and Hutchinson. They were
+incessant in their applications to administration, and gave the most
+positive assurances of success.
+
+[Dec. 6.] Mr. commissioner M—— waited on me. In the course of
+conversation he said, “You can have no idea of the taxes of this
+kingdom, and the distress of our poor. They are extreme poor and
+wretched indeed—every thing here is taxed to the utmost. The colonies
+must relieve us; they must ease us of our taxes, &c.” He also affirmed
+to me, that governors Bernard and Hutchinson were principally attended
+to in the late measures against the colonies. But he added, that
+government had found many things had turned out different from
+Hutchinson’s representation, and had not been at all conformable to what
+he foretold.
+
+To ——. “My whole time is employed in endeavoring to serve my country. I
+find every body eager to hear, most people willing to be set right, and
+almost all grossly ignorant of the American world. It is agreed on all
+hands, that your courage—your courage, I repeat it—will be brought to
+the test.—Should it prove answerable to your ostentations, and worthy of
+your ancestors, your friends will amazingly increase—your hearty friends
+will be in raptures. Prepare—prepare I say, for the worst.
+
+“Many of your friends here, in both houses, will not take a decisive
+part till they see how you act in America. For should they take a
+determined part now in favor of that country, and in a short time
+America give back, their hopes of rise into power and office (which are
+the hopes of all British statesmen) would be for ever at an end.
+Therefore, till the colonists discover that union and spirit, which all
+parties here agree must force success, you are not to expect any great
+exertions in your favor. But when once there is a conviction that the
+Americans are in earnest, that they are resolved to endure all hazards
+with a spirit worthy the prize (and not till then) will you have many
+firm, active, persevering, and powerful friends. For, strange as it may
+seem, there is a great doubt here, among many, whether you are really in
+earnest, in the full force and extent of those words.”
+
+[Dec 12.] Lord —— appeared a very warm friend to the Americans; and
+said, “If they continue united, they must have all they ask.” He
+particularly mentioned, that lord M—— last sessions, assured the house
+of lords, that the plan they had laid would go down in America, _sine
+clade_; and also that he had the best intelligence what might be carried
+through there. His lordship had no doubt that such assurances was
+grounded on Hutchinson’s information.
+
+[Dec. 14.] To E——. “Your countrymen must seal their cause with their
+blood. They must preserve a consistency of character. THEY MUST NOT
+DELAY. They must——or be trodden down into the vilest vassalage—the
+scorn—the spurn of their enemies—a by-word of infamy among all men.”
+
+[Dec. 16.] To E——. “Permit me to congratulate my countrymen on the
+integrity and wisdom with which the congress have conducted. Their
+policy, spirit, and union, have confounded their foes and inspired their
+friends. All parties agree in giving them a tribute of honor and
+applause. My lord N—— endeavored to explain away his expression—“I will
+have America at my feet.” Beware of the arts of negociation.”
+
+“By the way, there is no doubt but the ministry sent large sums to
+New-York, in order to bribe your continental delegates. It was openly
+avowed and vindicated; and great boast was made of ministerial success
+in this way, with the delegates from New-York. It was said, that they
+had effected a dis-union which would be fatal to the cause of America.
+You can’t well imagine the chagrin with which the ministry received the
+result of that glorious body. They are viewed as the _northern
+constellation_ of glorious worthies, illuminating and warming the new
+world.”
+
+To Joseph Reed, esq. (of Philadelphia.)
+
+[Dec. 17.] “Sure I am that the ministry have no where such sanguine
+hopes of a defection as from that quarter (New-York.) Their influence is
+no where so forcibly extended; it is certain they will be astonishingly
+disappointed if they do not find a sensibility to their touch. Lord C——
+said in the house of lords, the other day, “Were I an American, I would
+resist to the last drop of my blood.” Your parliamentary friends say,
+snatch the opportunity for peace and reconciliation. Your sanguine and
+warm partizans say, “You are united and inspired now, circumstances that
+may never happen again. Seize the happy and glorious opportunity for
+establishing the freedom and social felicity of all America. There is a
+tide in the affairs of men.”
+
+[Jan. 2, 1775.] While (at Bath) viewing the most magnificently elegant
+new rooms, in company with colonel Barre, he said, pointing to the
+pictures taken from the ruins found at Herculaneum, “I hope you have not
+the books containing the draughts of those ruins with you.” I replied,
+“There was one set I believed in the public library at our college.”
+“Keep them there (said he) and they may be of some service as a matter
+of curiosity for the speculative, but let them get abroad and you are
+ruined. They will infuse a taste for buildings and sculpture; and when a
+people get a taste for the fine arts, they are ruined. ’Tis taste that
+ruins whole kingdoms. ’Tis tase that depopulates whole nations. I could
+not help weeping when I surveyed the ruins at Rome. All the remains of
+the Roman grandeur are of works which were finished, when Rome and the
+spirit of Romans were no more, unless I except the ruins of the Emilian
+baths. Mr. Quincy, let your countrymen beware of taste in their
+buildings, equipage and dress, as a deadly poison.”
+
+Colonel Barre also added, in the course of conversation—“About fourteen
+or fifteen years ago, I was through a considerable part of your country;
+for, in the expedition against Canada, my business called me to pass by
+land through Pennsylvania, New-Jersey, York and Albany; and when I
+returned again to this country, I was often speaking of America, and
+could not help speaking well of its climate, soil and inhabitants; for
+you must know, sir, America was always a favorite with me. But will you
+believe it, sir, yet I assure you it is true, more than two-thirds of
+this island at that time, thought the Americans were all negroes.” I
+replied, “I did not in the least doubt it; for if I was to judge by the
+late acts of parliament, I should suppose that a majority of the people
+of Great-Britain still thought so, for I found that their
+representatives still treated them as such.” He smiled, and the
+discourse dropped. The colonel was among those who voted for the Boston
+port-bill.
+
+[Dec. 20.] Attended the debates of the house of lords.—Good fortune gave
+me one of the best places for taking a few minutes.
+
+Lord Chatham rose like Marcellus. “Viros superiment omnes.” He seemed to
+feel himself superior to those around him. His language, voice and
+gesture, were more pathetic than I ever saw or heard before at the bar
+or senate. He seemed like an old Roman senator, rising with the dignity
+of age, yet speaking with the fire of youth.
+
+The illustrious sage stretched fourth his hand with the decent solemnity
+of a Paul, and rising with his subject, he smote his breast with the
+energy and grace of a Demosthenes. He opened with some general
+observations on the importance and magnitude of the American quarrel (as
+he called it.) He enlarged upon the dangerous and ruinous events that
+were coming upon the nation in consequence of the present dispute, and
+the measures already begun and now carrying on by his majesty’s
+ministers. He arraigned their conduct with great severity and freedom.
+He then proceeded:
+
+“My lords, these papers from America, now laid for the first time before
+your lordships, have been, to my knowledge, five or six weeks in the
+pocket of the minister. And notwithstanding the fate of this kingdom
+hangs upon the event of this great controversy, we are but this moment
+called to a consideration of this important subject. My lords, I do not
+want to look into one of those papers; I know their contents well enough
+already. I know that there is not a member in this house but is
+acquainted with their purport also. There ought therefore to be no delay
+in entering upon this matter; we ought to proceed to it immediately. We
+ought to seize the first moment to open the door of reconciliation. The
+Americans will never be in a temper or state to be reconciled (they
+ought not to be) till the troops are withdrawn. The troops are a
+perpetual irritation to these people: they are a bar to all confidence,
+and all cordial reconcilement. I therefore, my lords, move—That an
+humble address be presented to his majesty, most humbly to advise and
+beseech his majesty, that, in order to open the way towards an happy
+settlement of the dangerous troubles in America, by beginning to allay
+ferments, and soften animosities there; and above all, for preventing,
+in the mean time, any sudden and fatal catastrophe at Boston, now
+suffering under the daily irritation of an army, before their eyes,
+posted in their town, it may graciously please his majesty, that
+immediate orders may be dispatched to general Gage, for removing his
+majesty’s forces from the town of Boston, as soon as the rigor of the
+season, and other circumstances indispensible to the safety and
+accommodation of the said troops, may render the same practicable.”
+
+“The way, my lords, must be immediately opened for reconciliation. It
+will soon be too late. I know not who advised the present measures. I
+know not who advises to a perseverance and enforcement of them; but this
+I will say, that whoever advises them ought to answer for it, at his
+utmost peril.—I know that no one will avow, that he advised, or that he
+was the author of these measures: every one shrinks from the charge. But
+somebody has advised his majesty to these measures, and if his majesty
+continues to hear such evil counsellors, his majesty will be undone. His
+majesty indeed my wear his crown; but the American jewel out of it, it
+will not be worth the wearing.”
+
+“What more shall I say? I must not say, that the king is betrayed; but
+this I will say, the NATION is ruined. What foundation have we for our
+claims over America? What is our right to persist in such cruel and
+vindictive measures against that loyal and respectable people? They say
+you have no right so tax them without their consent. They say truly.
+Representation and taxation must go together: they are inseparable. Yet
+there is hardly a man in our streets, though so poor as scarce to be
+able to get his daily bread, but thinks he is the legislator of America.
+_Our_ American subjects is a common phrase in the mouth of the lowest
+orders of our citizens; but property, my lords, is the sole and entire
+dominion of the owner: it excludes all the world besides the owner. None
+can intermeddle with it. It is a unity; a mathematical point. It it at
+atom; untangible by any but the proprietor. Touch it—and the owner loses
+his whole property. The touch contaminates the whole mass; the whole
+property vanishes. The touch of another annihilates it; for whatever is
+a man’s own, is absolutely and exclusively his own.”
+
+“In the last parliament all was anger—all was rage. Administration did
+not consider what was practicable, but what was revenge. _Sine clade
+victoria_ was the language of the ministry last sessions, but every body
+knew, an idiot might know, that such would not be the issue. But the
+ruin of the nation was a matter of no concern, if administration might
+be revenged. Americans were abused, misrepresented, and traduced in the
+most atrocious manner, in order to give a colour, and urge on the most
+precipitate, unjust, cruel, and vindictive measures that ever disgraced
+a nation.”
+
+           Gnossius hæc Rhadamanthus habet _durissima_ regna,
+               _Custig at_ que, AUDIT que dolos.
+
+“My lords, the very infernal spirits, they _chastise_, _castigatque_:
+sed _auditque_, my lords. The very spirits of the infernal regions HEAR
+_before_ they _punish_. But how have these respectable people behaved
+under all their grievances? With unexampled patience, with unparalleled
+wisdom. They chose delegates by their free suffrages: no _bribery_, no
+_corruption_, no INFLUENCE here, my lords. Their representatives meet
+with the sentiments and temper, and speak the sense of the continent.
+For genuine sagacity, for singular moderation, for solid wisdom, manly
+spirit, sublime sentiments and simplicity of language, for every thing
+respectable and honorable, the congress of Philadelphia shine
+unrivalled. This wise people speak out. They do not hold the language of
+slaves; they tell you what they mean.—They do not ask you to repeal your
+laws as a favor; they claim it as a right; they demand it. They tell
+you, they will not submit to them; and I tell you the acts must be
+repealed; they will be repealed; you cannot enforce them. The ministry
+are checker-mated. They have a move to make on the board; and yet not a
+move but they are ruined.
+
+Repeal, therefore, my lords, I say. But bare repeal will not satisfy
+this enlightened and spirited people. What! repeal a bit of paper:
+repeal a piece of parchment! That alone won’t do, my lords. You must go
+through. You must declare you have no right to tax; then they may trust
+you; then they will have confidence in you. I have heard a noble lord
+speak, who seemed to lay some blame upon general Gage. I think that
+honorable gentleman has behaved with great prudence and becoming
+caution. He has entrenched himself and strengthened his fortifications.
+I don’t know what he could do more. His situation puts me in mind of a
+similar transaction in the civil wars of France, when the great Condee
+on one side, and Marshall Turenne on the other, with large armies lay
+many weeks very near each other. Turenne, conscious of the terrible
+consequences of a victory to himself and country, though the armies were
+several days in sight of each other, never came to a battle. On his
+return to the court of France, the queen asked him, “Why, Marshall, I
+think you lay several days in sight of your enemy, and you might have
+been up with him at any time; pray why did you not take him?” The
+general very shrewdly replied, “Should I have taken him, please your
+majesty, I was afraid all Paris would have taken me.”——My lords, there
+are three millions of whigs. Three millions of whigs, my lords, with
+arms in their hands, are a very formidable body. ’Twas the whigs, my
+lords, that set his majesty’s royal ancestors upon the throne of
+England. I hope, my lords, there are yet double the number of whigs in
+England that there are in America. I hope the whigs of both countries
+will join and make a common cause. Ireland is with the Americans to a
+man. The whigs of that country will, and those of this country ought, to
+think the American cause their own. They are allied to each other in
+sentiment and interest, united in one great principle of defence and
+resistance; they ought therefore, and will run to embrace and support
+their brethren. The cause of ship-money was the cause of all the whigs
+of England. _You shall not take my money without my consent_, is the
+doctrine and language of whigs. It is the doctrine and voice of whigs in
+America, and whigs here. It is the doctrine in support of which I do not
+know how many names I could—I may call in this house; among the living I
+cannot say how many I could, to join with me and maintain these
+doctrines with their blood; but among the dead I could raise an host
+innumerable. And, my lords, at this day, there are very many sound,
+substantial, honest whigs, who ought, and who will consider the American
+controversy as a great common cause.”
+
+“My lords, consistent with the preceding doctrines, and with what I have
+ever and shall continue to maintain, I say, I shall oppose America
+whenever I see her aiming at throwing off the navigation act, and other
+regulatory acts of trade, made _bona fide_ for that purpose, and wisely
+framed and calculated for reciprocation of interest, and the general
+extended welfare and security of the whole empire. It is suggested such
+is their design. I see no evidence of it. But to come at a certain
+knowledge of their sentiments and designs on this head, it would be
+proper first to do them justice. Treat them as subjects before you treat
+them as aliens, rebels, and traitors.”
+
+“My lords, deeply impressed with the importance of taking some healing
+measurs at this most alarming distracted state of our affairs, though
+bowed down with a cruel disease, I have crawled to this house, to give
+you my best experience and counsel; and my advice is to beseech his
+majesty, &c. &c. This is the best I can think of. It will convince
+America that you mean to try her cause in the spirit and by the laws of
+freedom and fair enquiry, and not by codes of blood. How can she now
+trust you, with the bayonet at her breast? She has all the reason in the
+world now to believe you mean her death or bondage.”
+
+“Thus entered on the threshhold of this business, I will knock at your
+gates for justice without ceasing, unless inveterate infirmities stay my
+hand. My lords, I pledge myself never to leave this business: I will
+pursue it to the end in every shape. I will never fail of my attendance
+on it, at every step and period of this great matter, unless nailed down
+to my bed by the severity of disease. My lords, there is no time to be
+lost; every moment is big with dangers. Nay, while I am now speaking,
+the decisive blow may be struck, and millions involved in the
+consequence. The very first drop of blood will make a wound that will
+not easily be skinned over. Years, perhaps ages may not heal it. It will
+be _irritabile vulnus_, a wound of that rancorous, malignant, corroding,
+festering nature, that in all probability it will mortify the whole
+body. Let us then, my lords, set to this business in earnest, not take
+it up by bits and scraps as formerly, just as exigencies pressed,
+without any regard to the general relations, connections and
+dependencies. I would not by any thing I have said, my lords, be thought
+to encourage America to proceed beyond the right line. I reprobate all
+acts of violence by her mobility, but when her inherent constitutional
+rights are invaded, those rights that she has an equitable claim to the
+full enjoyment of by the fundamental laws of the English constitution,
+and ingrafted thereon by the fundamental laws of nature, then I own
+myself an _American_, and feeling myself such, shall to the verge of my
+life, vindicate those rights against all men who strive to trample upon
+or oppose them.”
+
+From the effects of this speech on the great audience without the bar,
+and from my own emotions and feelings, the miracles of ancient
+eloquence—_the blaze of genius and the burst of thought_—with which
+Grecian and Roman orators have been said to work wonders in the senate
+and the field, no longer appeared fabulous.
+
+Lord Camden spoke next on the side of America, and in support of the
+motion. He equalled lord Chatham in every thing but that fire and pathos
+which are the _forte_ of his lordship. In learning, perspicuity, and
+pure eloquence, probably no one ever surpassed lord Camden.
+
+His lordship opened briefly upon the nature of property, the right of
+taxation, and its inseparability from representation. “My lords (he
+said) I will not enter into the large field of collateral reasoning
+applicable to the abstruse distinctions touching the omnipotence of
+parliament. The declaratory law sealed my mouth. But this I will say,
+not only as a statesman, politician and philosopher, but as a COMMON
+LAWYER, my lords, you have no right to tax America. I have searched the
+matter. I repeat it, my lords, you have no right to tax America. The
+natural rights of man, and the immutable laws of nature, are all with
+that people. Much stress is laid on the supreme legislative authority of
+Great-Britain, and so far as the doctrine is directed to its proper
+object, I accede to it. But it is equally true, according to all
+approved writers on government, that no man, agreeable to the principles
+of natural or civil liberty, can be divested of any part of his property
+without his consent. Every thing has been staked on this single
+position, that acts of parliament must be obeyed; but this general,
+unconditional, unlimited assertion, I am far from thinking applicable to
+every possible case that may arise in the turn of times. For my part, I
+imagine that a power resulting from a trust arbitrarily exercised, may
+be lawfully resisted; whether the power is lodged in a collective body,
+or single person, in the few or the many. However modified makes no
+difference. Whenever the trust is wrested to the injury of the people,
+whenever oppression begins, all is unlawful and unjust; and resistance
+of course becomes lawful and right. But some lords tell us seriously,
+that administration must reduce the Americans to obedience and
+submission; that is, you must make them absolute and infamous slaves,
+and _then_——what? We will, say they, give them full liberty. Ah! is this
+the nature of man? No my lords, I would not trust myself, _American_ as
+I am, in this situation. I do not think I should, in that case, be
+myself for giving of them liberty. No, if they submitted to such unjust,
+such cruel, such degrading slavery, I should think they were made for
+slaves; that servility was suited to their nature and genius. I should
+think they would best serve this country as their slaves; that their
+servility would be for the benefit of Great-Britain; and I should be for
+keeping such _Cappadocians_ in a state of servitude, such as was suited
+to their constitution, and might redound much to our advantage.”
+
+“My lords, some noble lords talk very much of resistance to acts of
+parliament. King, lords, and commons, are fine sounding names. But, my
+lords, acts of parliament have been resisted in all ages. King, lords,
+and commons, may become tyrants as well as others. Tyranny in one or
+more is the same. It is as lawful to resist the tyranny of many as of
+one. Somebody once asked the great Mr. _Seldon_ in what law-book, in
+what records or archives of the state, you might find the law for
+resisting tyranny. “I don’t know (said Mr. Seldon) whether it is worth
+your while to look deeply into the books upon this matter; but I’ll tell
+you what is most certain, that it has always been the custom of
+England—and the custom of England is the law of the land.”
+
+“There is a gentleman, whom I need not name, his works are well received
+and well known, who avoids stating any rule when resistance is lawful;
+and he lays down the revolution as the only precedent. He says, that the
+various circumstances, events, and incident that may justify, cannot be
+defined; but the people at large will judge of their welfare and
+happiness, and act accordingly. The same writer says, that whenever a
+case exactly similar in all its parts and circumstances to the
+revolution, when a case shall run upon _all fours_ with that, then the
+law seems to be settled that resistance is lawful. I do not pretend to
+quote his words. I think his meaning is very much as I have stated it.
+But undoubtedly in cases in many respects dissimilar, but in equal
+degree tyrannical and oppressive, resistance may be lawful, and the
+people in all ages, countries, and climes, have at times known these
+things, and they have, and will for ever act accordingly.”
+
+Lord Shelburne, in the course of his argument, said, “My lords, we know,
+we all know, that justice and injustice, right and wrong, are not at all
+considered in the course of our parliamentary proceedings. We all know
+that nothing is debated in parliament for information or conviction, but
+for mere form. Every thing is considered in the cabinet, and brought
+into parliament, not for consideration, but for the sanction of the
+legislature, and the screening the counsellors of the king. The measures
+of parliament are the measures of the minister; and the measures of this
+minister are very often those of his commissioner.” The marquis of
+Rockingham also supported the motion.
+
+Lords Littleton, Suffolk, Gower, Townsend, Rochford, and Weymouth, spoke
+in opposition. I omit relating what their lordships said, lest I should
+be suspected by any who may see this journal, of an unfair report of
+their speeches. But a very remarkable saying of lord G—— I cannot omit.
+His lordship said, “I am for enforcing these measures (and with great
+sneer and contempt) let the Americans sit talking about their natural
+and divine rights, their rights as men and citizens, their rights from
+God and nature.”
+
+The house, at about ten, divided after the preceding debates on the
+question.—Contents 18—Non-contents 77, including proxies.
+
+Thus far from Mr. Quincy’s papers.
+
+The language of the lords in administration, was high and decisive. And
+it was declared, that the mother country should never relax till America
+confessed her supremacy; and it was acknowledged to be the ministerial
+resolution, to enforce obedience by arms.
+
+The principal trading and manufacturing towns in the kingdom, having
+waited to regulate their conduct as to American affairs, by that of the
+merchants of London and Bristol, followed the example of these two great
+commercial bodies, and prepared petitions upon that subject to be
+presented to parliament.
+
+[Jan. 23.] The petition from the merchants of London was of course the
+first delivered, and it was moved to be referred to the committee
+appointed to take into consideration the American papers; but it was
+moved by way of amendment on the ministerial side, that it should be
+referred to a separate committee to meet on the 27th, the day succeeding
+that appointed for the consideration of American papers. This was
+objected to as a shameful pitiful evasion; but upon the question’s being
+put, the amendment was carried, 197 against 81, who supported the
+original motion.
+
+A similar fate attended the petitions from Bristol, Glasgow, Norwich,
+Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Dudley, and some other
+places; all of which, in turn, were consigned to what the opposition
+termed the committee of oblivion.
+
+[Jan. 26.] On the day appointed for the consideration of American affair
+a second and very strong petition was presented from the merchants of
+London. On which it was moved, that the order for referring the
+merchants petition to a separate committee should be discharged, and
+that it should be referred to a committee of the whole house, appointed
+to consider the American affairs. The indignity and mockery offered to
+so great a body as the merchants of London by the late resolution, which
+with an insidious affectation of civility, received the petition with
+one hand, and threw it out of the window with the other, was painted in
+strong colours. All the debates, on the subject of the petitions, were
+attended with an unusual degree of asperity, and even acrimony on the
+side of opposition. The conduct also of the late parliament was
+scrutinized without mercy, and its memory treated with more than want of
+respect. A gentleman, remarkable for a sarcastic poignancy in his
+observations, in sketching a short history of that parliament, said,
+that they began their political life with a violation of the sacred
+right of election in the case of Middlesex; that they had died in the
+act of popery, when they established the Roman Cotholic religion in
+Canada; and that they had left a rebellion in America as a legacy. The
+question was rejected upon a division by a very great majority.
+
+Though it was then late, a petition was offered from Mr. Bollan, Dr.
+Franklin, and Mr. Lee, stating that they were authorised by the American
+continental congress, to present a petition from the congress to the
+king, which petition his majesty had referred to that house, and that
+they were enabled to throw great light upon the subject: they prayed to
+be heard at the bar in support of the said petition. A violent debate
+ensued. The ministry alledged, that the congress was no legal body, and
+none could be heard in reference to its proceedings, without giving that
+illegal body some degree of countenance. It was answered, that the
+congress, however illegal as to other purposes, was sufficiently legal
+for presenting a petition. It was signed by the names of all the persons
+who composed it, and might be received as from individuals. It was said,
+That it was their business rather to find every plausible reason for
+receiving petitions, than to invent pretences for rejecting them; that
+the rejection of petitions was one principal, if not the most powerful
+cause of the present troubles: and that this mode of constantly
+rejecting their petitions, and refusing to hear their agents, would
+infallibly end in universal rebellion, and not unnaturally, as those
+seem to give up the rights of government, who refuse to hear the
+complaints of the subject. The ministry insulted the petition as
+containing nothing but pretended grievances, while they refused to hear
+and discuss it. It was rejected by 218 to 68. This rejection must have
+been foreseen by all who knew, that on the fourth of the month, Lord
+Dartmouth, by the king’s orders, had written a circular letter to the
+governors of his majesty’s colonies, requiring them to use their utmost
+endeavors to prevent the holding of any more congresses; and that the
+American grievances were in the letter termed _pretended_. This letter
+was written a few days after the petition had met with an apparent
+gracious reception, and had been promised a due consideration; but
+probably not before favorable advices had been received respecting the
+New-York assembly.
+
+It was evident, that both houses of parliament were ready to adopt any
+measures which administration should propose; and it was confidently
+believed and asserted, that when the merchants and manufacturers were
+deprived of all hopes of preventing the operation of force, it would
+then become their interest to give all possible effect to it. They would
+thus become by degrees, a principal support of that cause which they now
+so eagerly opposed.
+
+The opinion of the efficacy of a forcible mode of proceeding in America,
+and the hopes of compelling a great body at home to concurrence, have
+made the ministers more and more resolved to go through, and complete
+the plan with which they have begun. It may however be much doubted,
+whether they suspect that the American contest will end in blood. Some
+of them in all probability have such a firm reliance upon Mr.
+Hutchinson’s judgment, as to flatter themselves that the colonists will
+give way to those appearances of coercion, which they have adopted, and
+mean further to adopt; and so have engaged in the present hazardous
+politics, in hopes of enjoying a bloodless conquest, and therein a
+complete triumph over all opposition.
+
+[Feb. 8.] Lord Chatham persevered in the prosecution of his conciliatory
+scheme with America, and accordingly brought into the house of lords the
+outlines of a bill, which he hoped would answer that salutary purpose,
+under the title of “A provincial act for settling the troubles in
+America, and for asserting the supreme legislative authority, and
+superintending power of Great-Britain over the colonies.”
+
+This bill caused a variety of discussion within and without doors. The
+ministry observed, that it was a proposition of reconciliation by
+concession, which was cause sufficient to induce them to reject it;
+their plan being, at present, to show a firm resolution not to give way
+in any instance, while the opposition in America continued. It was usual
+in parliament to reject, on the first proposition, any bill for any
+object allowed to be necessary; and promising, however faintly or
+rudely, any plan for obtaining the end proposed. But the proceeding on
+this occasion was different. They condemned without reserve the bill in
+the whole, and in all its parts; and it was moved, and strongly
+supported by all the lords on the side of administration, that the bill
+be rejected in the first instance. The noble framer defended himself and
+his bill from the numerous attacks which were made on both, with great
+spirit and vigor. The indignity offered him, seemed to renew all the
+fire of youth; and he retorted the sarchasms, which were levelled at him
+from different quarters, with a most pointed severity. The nature of the
+subjects debated, and the state of temper on both sides, produced much
+warmth, severe altercation, and even personal animadversion. The bill
+was rejected by a majority of 61 to 32, not being allowed to lie upon
+the table. The rejection of it may be of no disservice to the colonists.
+It contained in it, a proposal to require of congress the making of a
+free grant to the king, of a certain perpetual revenue, subject to the
+disposition of the British parliament; and congress was to adjust the
+proportions of the several charges to be borne by each province toward
+the general contributory supply. Had it passed into an act, the
+colonists might not have united in the proposal, but dangerous divisions
+have followed, so that you may have no occasion to regret its fate,
+especially as that will strengthen your union, and increase your
+friends.
+
+A petition was presented to the commons, from the planters of the sugar
+colonies residing in Great-Britain, and the merchants of London trading
+to those colonies, setting forth the distress to which the West-India
+islands will be reduced, unless the former harmony between this kingdom
+and the American colonies is restored. Like all the former upon the
+subject, it was referred to the established petition committee. The day
+it was presented, the minister opened his designs in respect to America.
+Having prepared the way by a speech, he moved for an address to the
+king, and for a conference with the lords, that it might be the joint
+address of both houses. The address returns thanks for the communication
+of the American papers; and declares, that they find from them, that a
+_rebellion_ actually exists within the province of the Massachusetts
+Bay; that the parties concerned in it have been countenanced and
+encouraged by unlawful combinations and engagements entered into, in
+several of the other colonies; that they never can relinquish any part
+of the sovereign authority over all the dominions, which by law is
+vested in his majesty and the two houses of parliament; but they ever
+have been, and always shall be ready to pay attention and regard to any
+real grievances of any of his majesty’s subjects, which shall in a
+dutiful and constitutional manner be laid before them; but at the same
+time they beseech his majesty to take the most effectual measures to
+enforce due obedience to the authority of the supreme legislature; and
+in the most solemn manner assure him, that at the hazard of their lives
+and properties, they will stand by him against all rebellious attempts,
+in the maintenance of the just rights of his majesty and the two houses
+of parliament.
+
+Lord North then gave a sketch of the measures he intended to pursue,
+which were to send a greater force to America, and to bring in a
+temporary act to put a stop to all the foreign trade of the different
+colonies of New-England, particularly their fishery on the banks of
+Newfoundland, till they returned to their duty.
+
+The address was so loaded with consequences, the extent of which could
+not be defined, that it called up all the powers of opposition; and even
+some few of the most moderate in the house seemed to feel a kind of
+horror, at entering upon a measure so dangerous in the tendency, and
+inexplicable in the event.
+
+A gentleman, of the first eminence in the law, followed the minister
+through the whole detail of his speech, and answered the different
+positions. He insisted, that having examined with legal precision the
+definitions of treason, the Americans were not in rebellion, and said,
+“Whatever the disorders may be, they are created by the conduct of
+those, whose views are to establish despotism, and which are manifestly
+directed to reduce America to the most abject state of servility, as a
+prelude to the realizing the same wicked system in the mother country.”
+He concluded by maintaining, that an opposition to arbitrary measures is
+warranted by the constitution, and established by precedent.
+
+The other gentlemen of the minority entered but little into the
+juridical part of the debate; but maintained, that it would be imprudent
+for the parliament at this time to _declare_ the disturbances
+rebellious. They said, “It is well known no act of violence has been
+committed in the Massachusetts Bay, which has not been equalled by
+something similar in every other province, and sometimes even exceeded
+by acts of a more heinous nature; that therefore the only effect of this
+violent, but partial declaration of rebellion, will be to delude
+ourselves into preparations of hostility, as if against one province
+only, when in truth we have to contend with twelve.”
+
+On the other side, the crown lawyers and ministerial debaters
+maintained, that such Americans as come within certain descriptions, and
+have been guilty of certain acts, and still persevere in the support and
+commission of such acts, are in a state of actual rebellion; that the
+punishment of a few of the worst sort of traitors, such as Hancock and
+his crew, may be sufficient to teach the rest their duty in future; and
+that the boasted union of the colonies will dissolve the moment
+parliament shows itself resolved on vigorous and severe measures. Some
+gentlemen of rank in the army, treated all idea of resistance by the
+Americans with the utmost contempt. They said, “They are neither
+soldiers, nor ever can be made so, being naturally of a pusillanimous
+disposition, and utterly incapable of any sort of order or discipline;
+and by their laziness, uncleanliness, and radical defect of
+constitution, they are disabled from going through the service of a
+campaign, but will melt away with sickness before they can face an
+enemy; so that a slight force will be more than sufficient for their
+complete reduction.” Many ludicrous stories to that purport were told,
+greatly to the entertainment of the house. A motion however was made for
+an amendment, which, upon a division, was rejected by a large majority,
+304 against 105. The question being then put for the address, was
+carried by nearly The same majority.
+
+But the minority had not done with the business. [Feb. 5.] Upon
+receiving the report from the committee a few days after, a noble lord
+made a motion to re-commit the address, and supported it with many
+arguments. He stated our domestic situation, and inferred the
+impropriety and danger of a declaration from that house, of the
+existence of a rebellion in any part of our dominions; and showed the
+desperate measures into which it might precipitate the Americans, and
+the advantage that might be taken of such an occasion by our powerful
+and watchful neighbors, whose ancient enmity and jealousy were much
+increased by the glory we had acquired, and the disgrace and loss they
+had suffered in the last war. He said, “My head and my heart join in
+deprecating the horrors of a civil war, which will be rendered still
+more dreadful, by its involving in it certain consequences, a foreign
+one with the combined forces of great and powerful nations.”
+
+This motion introduced the longest and most interesting debate that had
+taken place in the new parliament. It was acknowledged on all hands,
+that the present crisis was the most perilous and intricate in which the
+nation had been involved since the revolution. It was contended by those
+who opposed the motion, that the Americans were not to be won by
+kindness, or retained by benefits; and that the tenderness, which had
+been constantly practised by government, had produced the present fatal
+consequences. The danger from foreign powers supporting the Americans,
+was said to be imaginary: and it was still contended by several that an
+appearance of vigorous measures, with some reinforcement of the troops
+at Boston, would prove sufficient to quell the disturbances in America,
+without the drawing of blood.
+
+On the other side, the address was stigmatized as cruel, sanguinary, and
+unjust. It was urged, “The Americans have given the strongest and most
+unequivocal demonstrations of their filial piety toward the mother
+country. They have fought and bled by our side. In the present state of
+distraction, they require no more for the restoration of harmony, than
+to be placed in the same situation they were in at the close of the last
+war. They have been nursed up, for a long series of years, in ideas of
+certain rights, of which, the electing of their own representatives, and
+the disposal of their own money for the public service only through
+them, are among the principal. If this is an error, the crown and
+parliament are equally faulty with the Americans, having in their whole
+conduct constantly nourished the delusion. At the time of the repeal of
+the stamp-act, two of the first names of this kingdom, for ability as
+well as legal knowledge, beside many others, utterly denied the right of
+taxation. Is it then to be wondered at, that the Americans, with such
+authorities on their side, are tenacious of a right so invaluable in its
+nature, which has at all times been considered as the distinction
+between freemen and slaves, which has been confirmed by so long a
+prescription, and upon which, to this instant, the wisest and honestest
+men, even in the mother country, are divided in opinion?—Philip the
+second, and his seventeen provinces, are the counterpart of what we are
+acting. In comparing the probability of events, can any man say,
+Great-Britain has such a prospect of victory in the event as Spain might
+then have expected? If we imagine that the powers of Europe will sit
+still during this contest, we must suppose a system of policy now to
+prevail, or rather an extension of folly, all over Europe, which never
+before was known in any period of its existence.
+
+Much ill temper appeared in every part of the house in the course of
+these debates. The ministry were charged with acting uniformly and
+systematically upon tory and arbitrary principles, which had thrown the
+whole empire into a state of confusion and distraction. “In a word,” it
+was said, “the short and simple question before the house is, whether we
+shall lose the colonies, or give up our ministry.”
+
+The ministry, on the other hand, talked much about faction at home, and
+republican principles; and the Americans being spirited up to their
+rebellion by incendiary writers and speakers in England. After a debate,
+which continued till half an hour after two in the morning, the motion
+for the re-commitment of the address was rejected by nearly the former
+majority.
+
+When it was moved in the house of lords, to fill up the blank, left open
+in the address, by the insertion of the words, “The lords spiritual and
+temporal, &c.” to render the instrument the joint act of both houses, a
+debate ensued. The questions of treason, rebellion and constructive
+treasons, were deeply entered into by two great law lords, who differed
+totally in their legal and political sentiments, and carried on a long
+argument between them, with great warmth and ability; in which a large
+stock of professional and general learning was displayed on each side.
+It is to be lamented, that with all the boasted excellency of our
+constitution, a question of so vast magnitude as to include in its
+consequences, the lives, fortunes, and honors of all the subjects of
+this empire, still remains involved in such obscurity, as not only to
+admit of a difference of opinion, but that even the great oracles of the
+law are bewildered in its darkness. This extraordinary debate was
+attended with some singular circumstances. Lord Mansfield, to the great
+surprize of most of his auditors, condemned, in very explicit and
+unreserved terms, the measure of laying on the duties in 1767, which he
+declared to be the most absurd and pernicious that could be advised, and
+the cause of all the present impending evils. The duke of Grafton, Lord
+Shelburne, and Lord Camden, who were at that time cabinet counsellors
+and held the first offices in the state, declared separately in their
+places, that they had no share in that measure, nor had ever given any
+approbation. The manner in which a measure of ministry was carried
+against the opinion of ministers was not explained. A disclosure
+relative to a matter, which had already convulsed the whole empire, and
+was still more to be dreaded in its future consequences, excited general
+amazement, mixt with indignation and regret in individuals. The fatal
+and over-ruling secret influence, which had so long guided and marred
+all public affairs, was deplored and animadverted upon in different
+parts of the house.
+
+When the question came to be put, whether to agree with the commons in
+the address, by inserting the words necessary to fill up the blank, it
+was carried by a prodigious majority. But the lords Richmond, Craven,
+Archer, Abergavenny, Rockingham, Wycombe, Courtenay, Torrington,
+Ponsonby, Cholmondeley, Abington, Portland, Camden, Effingham, Stanhope,
+Scarborough, Fitzwilliam and Tankerville, protested against “an address
+amounting to _a declaration of war_, which is founded on no proper
+parliamentary information, which follows the rejection of every mode of
+conciliation, which hold out no substantial offer of redress of
+grievances, and which promises support to those ministers, who have
+inflamed America, and grossly misconducted the affairs of
+Great-Britain.”
+
+[Feb. 9.] The address was delivered, and an answer given, wherein his
+majesty assured both houses, that they might depend upon his taking the
+most speedy and effectual measures for enforcing due obedience to the
+laws, and the authority of The supreme legislature.
+
+On that or the preceding day, the petition and memorial from the
+assembly of _Jamaica_ to his majesty, was laid before the commons. It
+was drawn up in very strong terms. The petitioners entered into a full,
+free, and argumentative discussion of the late claims of the mother
+country, and of the rights of the colonies: the former of which they
+combated, and the latter defended with great force. They equally
+deplored and beheld with amazement, a plan almost carried into execution
+for reducing the colonies into the most abject state of slavery; and
+they supplicated the throne, and demanded and claimed from the
+sovereign, as the guarantee of their just rights, that no laws should be
+forced upon them, injurious to their rights as colonists or Englishmen;
+and that, as the common parent of his people, his majesty would become a
+mediator between his European and American subjects.
+
+[Feb. 10.] The next day the minister moved for leave to bring in a bill
+to restrain the trade and commerce of the New-England provinces, to
+Great-Britain, Ireland, and the British West-India islands, and to
+prohibit them from carrying on any fishery on the Banks of Newfoundland,
+and other places therein to be mentioned, under certain conditions, and
+for a limited time. In answer to the objections made to it while the
+subject of debate, the charges of injustice and cruelty were denied; and
+the contrary maintained; it was declared to be necessary; and it was
+observed, that though the innocent were involved with the guilty, and
+friends with foes, the necessity might be lamented, but could not be
+helped. The motion for a bill was carried by a majority of three to one.
+
+In the progress of the bill, the London merchants and traders interested
+in the American commerce, petitioned against it, and were allowed to be
+heard. In consequence of this a long train of witnesses were examined,
+and it appeared, That in 1764, the four New-England colonies employed in
+their several fisheries, no less than 45,880 ton of shipping, and 6002
+men, and that the produce of their fisheries in the foreign markets for
+that year, amounted to £.322,220 16s. sterling—that the fisheries were
+greatly increased—that all the materials used in them, except salt, and
+the timber of which their vessels were built, were taken from this
+country, and that the nett proceeds of the fish were remitted here—and
+that there was near a million of money owing from New-England to the
+city of London only. They stated to the house, that the calamities
+consequent upon the bill must fall in a particular degree, upon the
+innocent. The case of the inhabitants of Nantucket, would be
+particularly hard. They amounted to some thousands; nine-tenths of them
+quakers, inhabiting a barren land; but by an astonishing industry they
+kept 140 vessels in constant employ, eight in the importation of
+provisions for the island, and the rest in the whale fishery.
+
+[Feb. 20.] While the bill was pending, lord North amazed all parties,
+and seemed for a time nearly to dissolve his own, by a _conciliatory
+motion_ in regard to America. It proposed, “That when the governor,
+council, and assembly, or general court, of his majesty’s provinces or
+colonies, shall propose to make provision, according to their respective
+conditions, circumstances, and situations, for contributing their
+proportion to the common defence (such proportion to be raised under the
+authorities of the general court or general assembly of such province or
+colony, and disposable by parliament) and shall engage to make provision
+also for the support of the civil government, and the administration of
+justice in such province or colony, it will be proper, if such proposal
+should be approved by his majesty in parliament, and for so long as such
+provision shall be made accordingly, to forbear, in respect of such
+province or colony, to levy any duties, tax, or assessment: or to impose
+any further duty, tax, or assessment, except only such duties as it may
+be expedient to impose for the regulation of the commerce, the nett
+produce of the duties last mentioned to be carried to the account of
+such province, colony or plantation, respectively.” The numerous high
+prerogative party, who had ever opposed any relaxation in favor of the
+colonies, heard the proposition with horror, and considered themselves
+as abandoned or betrayed. They pronounced it a shameful prevarication,
+and a mean departure from principle; and finally concluded with
+declaring, that they would make no concessions to rebels with arms in
+their hands; and that they would enter into no measure for a settlement
+with the Americans, in which an express and definitive acknowledgment
+from them of the supremacy of parliament was not a preliminary article.
+A gentleman of the long robe, and who has lately distinguished himself
+for his zeal in promoting all the measures for reducing the colonies
+(Mr. W——) had the address in a few minutes to hush the commotion, by
+convincing the mal-contents, that the _appearance_ of concession,
+lenity, and tenderness, which had so much alarmed them, were of such a
+nature, that they could not interfere with the most rigid measures which
+they wished to enforce. The gentlemen in opposition said, “The motion is
+insidious, base and treacherous in the highest degree.”—The minister
+acknowledged it to be a cheat, and designed for the purpose of
+dis-uniting the Americans; but it will tend only to consolidate that
+common mass of union into which they have been thrown by the Boston port
+act. The question was carried by a majority of three to one.
+
+[Feb. 27.] A petition from the merchants, traders, and principal
+inhabitants of Poole in Dorsetshire, was presented, in avowed opposition
+to that from London, and in support of the principle of the
+fishery-bill. This petition set fourth, that the restraints upon the
+colonies would not by any means be injurious to commerce; and that the
+foreign markets might be amply supplied, by extending the Newfondland
+fishery from England.—They concluded by soliciting, no less for their
+own immediate advantage, than for the universal benefit of their
+country, such encouragement as parliament should think proper.
+
+A petition was also delivered from the Quakers in behalf of their
+brethren and others, the inhabitants of Nantucket, in which they stated
+their innocence and industry, the utility of their labours to themselves
+and the community, the hazards attending their occupation, and the
+uncertainty of their gains; and showed, that if the bill passed into a
+law, they must shortly be exposed to all the miseries of a famine.
+
+In every stage of the bill, the debate re-kindled; and in the course of
+it, the minority observed, “When it was thought wisdom to overthrow
+established privileges, and to combat national prejudices, by starting
+the new claim of taxation, the Americans went no further than to deny
+our right of internal taxation. Having gained the point of urging them
+to question one right, we soon convinced them, both by argument and
+practice, that an external tax might be made to answer all the purposes,
+and to produce all the mischiefs of internal taxation. They then denied
+our right of taxing for supply. Parliament then proceeded to deprive
+them of their charter, and to change the course of justice and trials.
+Then they were pushed to deny the power of internal legislation. But
+still they had hitherto never formally rejected the power of parliament
+to bind their trade. We are now to convince them, however, that if but a
+single branch of legislative power is left to this country, we can
+distort that branch in such a manner, that it shall include all the
+purposes of unlimited tyranny.” It appeared upon evidence, at the bar of
+the house, that by the operation of the bill, many thousands of innocent
+inhabitants would be reduced to the sad alternative, either of perishing
+through want at home, or of removing to some other less rigorous
+government for protection and support; so that a famine among the
+New-Englanders was predicted, as the consequence of the bill.
+
+Some gentlemen on the other side of the question, acknowledged the
+harshness of the measure; but lamented its being indispensably
+necessary. A much greater number contended, that the bill was in an high
+degree merciful, and that the New-England colonies did not want
+resources to prevent a famine. A few went so far as to regret that the
+bill did not convey punishments adequate to the crimes of the Americans,
+and to dread that the famine which had been strongly prognosticated, and
+pathetically lamented, would not take place.
+
+Mr. Quincy sails to-morrow for the _Massachusetts_. He is very far from
+being well; and has been attended upon repeatedly by Dr. Fothergill. The
+doctor thinks the Bristol air and water would give him perfect health;
+and it is greatly against his own opinion and inclination that he takes
+the voyage. But he risks his life for the good of his own colony in
+particular, and of America in general. His most intimate friends insist
+upon his going directly to Boston. They say no letter can go with
+safety; and that he can deliver more information and advice, _viva
+voce_, than can or ought to be written. They urge that by going now, if
+he arrives safe, he must be of great advantage to the American cause.
+
+He is to tell the people of your colony, by no means to take any step of
+great consequence (unless on a sudden emergency) without the advice of
+the continental congress; and is to repair to that honorable body, when
+met at Philadelphia.
+
+You will hear from him, how egregiously the Americans have been insulted
+by several in both houses of parliament, in being pronounced dastardly
+cowards and paltroons, _to be looked into submission_ at the approach of
+a regiment; and that if this is your true character, there will be no
+great exploit in the brave general _Grant_’s marching successfully, with
+only five regiments, from one end of the continent to the other, of
+which he has declared himself capable. It is said that an American durst
+not look at a red coat. The senator holds this language in the senate;
+and the general at the head of an army. It passes for a maxim, and it is
+thought scepticism to doubt it. Every subaltern, upon half-pay, looks
+upon himself as qualified for subduing America. If a man says otherwise,
+the finger is pointed at him as to an enemy of his country. Mr. Quincy
+will be likely also to give you the name of the member, who in a late
+speech adulterated the English tongue, that he might gratify his
+inveteracy by punishing you with _starvation_.
+
+By a future opportunity you will receive an account of the progress of
+the restraining and fishery bill, through the house of lords; of the
+further proceedings of parliament and ministry; and of the national
+complection.
+
+
+
+
+                              LETTER XII.
+
+
+                                              _Roxbury, April 26, 1775._
+
+While the Massachusetts had no provincial congress, the active friends
+of government had an opportunity to try their strength in a few places,
+and to attempt resisting the general current, by refusing a compliance
+with the resolutions of the colony congress; but the dissentients were
+overwhelmed by numbers, and their attempts proved abortive.
+
+The royal proclamation prohibiting the exportation of military stores
+from Britain, his majesty’s speech, and the addresses of the new
+parliament, in the opinion of many, cut off all hopes of reconciliation,
+more especially in New-England.
+
+[Feb. 1.] The new Massachusetts congress met at Cambridge, and Mr.
+Hancock was unanimously chosen president. They adjourned to Concord in
+about a fortnight, that the distance might afford them greater personal
+security, and render them less liable to interruption by any measures of
+the governor, That the colony might be somewhat prepared for the sorest
+trial, they urged in the strongest terms, the militia in general, and
+the minute-men in particular, to spare neither time, pains, nor expence,
+at so critical a juncture, for perfecting themselves forthwith in the
+military discipline. They passed resolutions for the providing and
+making of fire-arms and bayonets, and renewed the prohibition of their
+predecessors, against supplying the troops at Boston, with any of those
+necessaries peculiarly requisite for the military service. The committee
+of safety had directed in the beginning of January, that all the cannon,
+mortars, cannon-balls and shells, should be deposited at Worcester and
+Concord, in the same proportion as was done by the provision; and while
+the congress was sitting, [Feb. 13, 21.] voted, “that the committee of
+supplies do purchase all the powder they can, and also all kinds of
+warlike stores, sufficient for an army of fifteen thousand men to take
+the field.”
+
+The propriety of the precautions taken to guard against a surprise, was
+manifest from the following event.
+
+[Feb. 26.] General Gage receiving intelligence that cannon and carriages
+were deposited in the neighborhood of Salem, sent a corps of troops from
+the castle, under lieutenant colonel Leslie, on board a transport, to
+seize and bring them away. They landed at Marblehead, proceeded to
+Salem, found nothing there, and passed on to the draw-bridge leading to
+Danvers, where a number of people assembled, and those of the opposite
+side took up the bridge to prevent their crossing. The officer ordered
+it to be let down; the people peremptorily refused, saying, “It is a
+private road, and you have no authority to demand a passage this way.”
+On this refulal he determined to make use of the boats which were at
+hand; his intention was perceived, and the owners jumped into their own
+boats, and with their axes scuttled them, to make them useless for the
+present; during the transaction there was some scuffle between them and
+the soldiers. Things were apparently tending to an extremity. The
+reverend Mr. Bernard, a congregational clergymen of Salem, and other
+gentlemen, urged the letting down of the draw-bridge; but it was not
+done, till much time had been spent in altercation, during which period
+the articles that colonel Leslie was after, were conveyed away. When the
+opportunity of crossing offered, he marched about thirty rods, to the
+spot where the artificers had been employed in making carriages, &c. but
+finding nothing, and it being now late in the evening, returned and went
+on board the transport without meeting with any molestation. This
+expedition took place on the Lord’s day, which might contribute to its
+ending happily without mischief. On any other day when the people were
+not attending public worship, but dispersed about and following their
+secular business, the landing of the troops would have been discovered,
+and some quarrel might have ensued while they were making it good, or
+afterward upon their march. The governor probably pitched upon the
+Lord’s day, in hopes that it would prevent every painful catastrophe;
+but the expedition spread an alarm.
+
+The Massachusetts congress were displeased with the proceedings of the
+New-York general assembly; who renounced all concern with the late
+continental congress, declined choosing delegates for the proposed new
+one, and in their own single capacity sent a petition to the king, a
+memorial to the lords and a remonstrance to the house of commons. In the
+remonstrance they represented the grievances under which they labored,
+by the innovations that had been made in the constitutional mode of
+government since the close of the last war. They renounced the most
+distant desire of independence, acknowledged the supreme government of
+the British parliament over the whole empire, and their authority to
+regulate the trade of the colonies: remonstrated in the behalf of their
+brethren in the Massachusetts, for whose distresses they could not help
+feeling; but at the same time expressed their disapprobation of the
+violent measures pursued in some of the colonies. They claimed a
+restoration of those rights which they enjoyed before the close of the
+war; but without entertaining an idea of diminishing the power of the
+mother country, or lessening the dignity of parliament. Should the
+ministry embrace the offering thus given by the general assembly of
+New-York, they may possibly separate this central province from the
+others, and break the communication between the northern and the
+southern. But the apprehension of such an event is abated by the
+intelligence which the Massachusetts congress have received from the
+city of New-York. The whig citizens, whose hearts were set upon having
+delegates for the new continental congress, upon the assembly’s
+declining to appoint them, contrived to collect their fellow-citizens
+[Mar. 5.] together in order to obtain their opinion. When assembled in a
+body, there was a confused cry of “Congress, or no Congress?” After much
+altercation the tories had a recourse to compulsive reasoning and began
+dealing about their blows.—The whigs were in the worst situation, not
+being provided with similar arguments, till two of their party repaired
+to an adjoining cooper’s yard, from whence they drew forth to the
+assistance of their friends a number of hoop-sticks, which they reduced
+to a proper length, and forwarded to the combatants. The whigs, being
+thus supplied, soon carried the day by club-law, and beat their
+opponents off the ground. The tories, being worsted, and not a little
+terrified lest the fury of captain (whom they term in a way of reproach
+king) Sears, should lead him to head a mob, and do them some capital
+injury, promoted a provincial convention, which otherwise would not have
+existed. The battle royal at New-York, will prove the turning point as
+to that colony.
+
+The Massachusetts congress continued their session, and recommended the
+sixteenth of March to be observed as the annual day for fasting and
+prayer, which was kept accordingly by the inhabitants of Boston, no less
+than of the country. But they did not presume to rely upon religious
+exercises in the neglect of those civil means which prudence prescribed.
+The people, both within and without, used every device for conveying
+safely from Boston into the country, all kinds of military articles,
+which might be wanted in case of a rupture. Cannon balls, and such like
+heavy stores, were put into carts, and carried out over the Neck, under
+the appearance of loads of dung. Half barrels of gun-powder were put
+into butchers peds, or the hampers of the market people, and brought out
+under some slight, negligent, and unsuspected cover, as they returned
+home in the evening. Cartridges were packed up in candle boxes, and sent
+off under that deception; but some were at length discovered. The
+soldiers on the Neck did not make many prizes; however, one day [Mar.
+18.] they seized 13,425 musket cartridges, with 3000lb. weight of ball,
+which, though private property, the general was warranted in refusing to
+restore, on the application of the owner.
+
+That general Gage might not succeed in seizing any military stores in
+the country, should he send out troops upon that errand, the committee
+of safety had voted four days before, “that members from this committee
+belonging to Charlestown, Cambridge, and Roxbury, be desired to procure
+at least two men, for a watch every night, to be placed in each of these
+towns, and that said members be in readiness to send couriers forward to
+the towns where the magazines are placed, when sallies are made from the
+army at night.”
+
+[April 23.] The select men of the town of Billerica presented a most
+spirited remonstrance to general Gage, on account of an inhabitant of
+that town’s being tarred and feathered, and much abused on the 8th of
+the month, by a party of his majesty’s 47th regiment, under the command
+of lieutenant-colonel Nesbit. The firmness, resolution, and freedom,
+with which the people both of town and country have conducted, when
+their business called them to an intercourse with the governor, have
+often embarrassed and convinced him, that they were not wholly destitute
+of sterling courage. There might be some ground for punishing the person
+whose case produced the remonstrance; but the punishment should have
+been under the direction of a civil, and not a military officer, and of
+another kind; for, though it may be deemed a retaliation, upon the
+country, it has tended greatly to irritate.
+
+The Massachusetts congress were solicitous to keep their proceedings
+from coming to the knowledge of general Gage; but from several
+circumstances which occurred, they entertained a strong suspicion that
+they had some one among them, who betrayed their counsels. A gentleman,
+who is not a stranger to many considerable defects in the moral and
+political character of Dr. Church, is apprehensive that he is the
+person; but is exceedingly cautious of mentioning his suspicion,
+considering the high reputation in which the doctor is among the sons of
+liberty.
+
+[Mar. 30.] General Gage marched out about eleven hundred men into the
+country; who doing much damage by throwing down the stone fences,
+occasioned a committee’s waiting upon the Massachusetts congress on the
+Saturday, when upon the point of adjourning, which kept them sitting
+till they received, on the Monday following, accounts by a vessel from
+Falmouth, of what parliament had done and was doing in relation to their
+colony.
+
+It was a providential circumstance that they had so early intelligence,
+and obtained it before general Gage had received his dispatches: they
+were careful to improve it. The intelligence spread fast, and induced
+more of the inhabitants of Boston to remove out of the town. A number
+had been for some time withdrawing themselves. The town was liable to be
+converted instantly, at the discretion of the governor, into a secure
+prison; and the people of it might be held as hostages for the conduct
+of the province at large, or be kidnapped and sent to England, to stand
+trial for supposed offences. Continuance in it was hazardous to many,
+who had distinguished themselves by taking an active part against the
+measures of government. But the dauntless courage of some such inclined
+them to remain, though there was no knowing what private orders might be
+sent to general Gage, who was not inattentive to the service in which he
+was employed, while he evidenced a prevailing desire after a peaceable
+accommodation. He sent private orders to the commanding officer at
+New-York, to purchase up all the duck, blankets, pick-axes, pots, and
+other articles proper for camp service. Application was made by the
+officer to the Philadelphia merchants, who penetrated the design, and no
+less nobly than unanimously refused a compliance. Three of the New-York
+merchants had for some time been buying up, selling, and sending the
+several articles to Boston; but at length a stop was put to their
+proceedings by the influence of captain Sears, who, upon his return to
+Philadelphia, urged that they might want those things themselves, and
+made a considerable stir upon the occasion. But a great number were
+purchased at Portsmouth, before the discovery of the general’s
+intention.
+
+The news of the parliamentary proceedings encouraged the soldiery to
+insult the people more than ever; their conduct seemingly intimated,
+that they meant to provoke the other to begin a quarrel; while these
+bore all with patience, as they were determined not to be the
+aggressors. Nothing was wanting but a spark to set the whole continent
+in a flame. The important moment, big with inconceivable consequences,
+was evidently approaching, when, through accident or design, it would be
+applied to those combustibles which had been long collecting.
+
+The grenadier and light infantry companies were taken off duty, upon the
+plea of learning a new exercise, which made the Bostonians jealous that
+there was some scheme on foot. A daughter of liberty, unequally yoked in
+point of politics, sent word, by a trusty hand, to Mr. Samuel Adams,
+residing, in company with Mr. Hancock, at Lexington, about thirteen
+miles from Charlestown, that the troops were coming out in a few days.
+Upon this their friends at Boston were advised to move out their plate,
+&c. and the committee of fafety voted, “that all the ammunition be
+deposited in nine different towns; and that other articles be lodged,
+some in one place, some in another, so as to the 15 medicinal chests,
+2000 iron pots, 2000 bowls, 15,000 canteens, and 1100 tents; and that
+the six companies of matrosses be stationed in different towns.”
+
+Mr. Adams inferred from the number to be employed, that these were the
+objects, and not himself and Mr. Hancock, who might be more easily
+seized in a private way, by a few armed individuals, than by a large
+body of troops, that must march for miles together under the eye of the
+public.
+
+The provincial stores had been hitherto deposited at Worcester and
+Concord. To the last of these places, but half the distance of the other
+from Boston, the general turned his attention; and, being continually
+pestered by the repeated solicitations of the American tories, with whom
+he was surrounded, and who persuaded him there was no danger of
+resistance, their whig countrymen being too cowardly, he determined,
+without the advice of the council, when and in what way to attempt the
+seizure of the many stores supposed to be in that place.
+
+[April 18.] A number of officers dined together at Cambridge, and toward
+night scattered themselves upon the road leading to Concord; and took
+their station so as to be ready to intercept any expresses going from
+Boston to alarm and raise the country with intelligence of the troops
+being upon their march. When the corps was nearly ready to proceed upon
+the expedition, Dr. Warren, by a mere accident, had notice of it just in
+time to send messengers over the Neck and across the ferry, on to
+Lexington, before the orders for preventing every person’s quitting the
+town were executed. The officers intercepted several; but some, being
+well mounted, escaped their vigilance; and the alarm being once given,
+spread apace, by the ringing of bells and the firing of signal guns and
+vollies. By eleven at night, eight hundred grenadiers and light
+infantry, the flower of the army, embarked at the common, proceeded and
+landed at Phipps’s farm, from whence they marched for Concord, under the
+command of lieutenant-colonel Smith, aided by major Pitcairn, who led
+the advanced corps.
+
+[April 19.] About two in the morning, the Lexington company of militia,
+to the amount of one hundred and thirty, repaired to the green, close in
+with the meeting-house. The air being chilly, and the intelligence
+respecting the regulars somewhat uncertain, the men, after the
+roll-call, were dismissed, with orders to appear again at beat of drum.
+Some went home, others to the adjoining public house. Word being brought
+between four and five, that the troops were not far off, they that were
+at hand collected, to the number of about seventy, by the time the
+regulars made their appearance. They were mostly in a confused state,
+and a few only were drawn up. There were present at the time about forty
+spectators without arms. The militia were too few to think of beginning
+an attack. But major Pitcairn rode round the meeting (as the
+meeting-house is generally called) and approaching them called out,
+“_Disperse you rebels, throw down your arms and disperse_.” An instant
+compliance not taking place, which he might construe into contempt, he
+rode a little further, fired his pistol, flourished his sword, and
+ordered the soldiers to fire, with which they complied, huzzaing upon
+the occasion. This produced an immediate dispersion; but the firing was
+continued. Individuals finding they were fired upon, though dispersing,
+had spirit enough to stop and return the fire. Three or four were killed
+upon the green; the rest, making the whole number of the slain eight,
+were shot on the other side of the walls and fences, over which they had
+fled in order to escape. During this interesting period, Messrs. S.
+Adams and Hancock, whose residence was near at hand, quitted and removed
+to a further distance. While walking alone, Mr. Adams exclaimed, “_Oh!
+what a glorious morning is this!_” in the belief that it would
+eventually liberate the colony from all subjection to Great-Britain. His
+companion did not penetrate his meaning, and thought the allusion was
+only to the aspect of the sky. Lest it should be said and believed, that
+the meeting was crowded with militia, before and during the fire, let me
+mention that there were only a man and a boy in it. The detachment
+marched on to Concord. The people of the town, having received the
+alarm, drew up in order for defence; but observing that the regulars
+were too numerous, retired over the north bridge and waited for
+reinforcements from the neighboring towns. A party of light infantry
+followed, and possessed themselves of the bridge, while the main body
+entered the town, and proceeded to execute their commission. They
+disabled two twenty-four pounders, and destroyed their carriages and
+seven wheels for the same, with their limbers beside sixteen wheels for
+brass three pounders, and two carriages with limber and wheels for two
+four pounders. They threw 500lb. of ball into the river, wells, and
+other places; and broke in pieces about sixty barrels of flour, half of
+which was saved. These were all the stores that they could discover and
+destroy, on the account of which a civil war has commenced between the
+colonies and the parent state. The inhabitants of Britain may see
+reason, for many ages, to curse the memory of the man or men, who has or
+have been at the foundation of this fatal catastrophe, should they ever
+be known. The militia being reinforced, Mr. John Butterick, of Concord,
+major of a minute regiment, and who commanded, ordered the men not to
+give the first fire, that so the provincials might not be the
+aggressors, for he was ignorant of what had passed at Lexington. Upon
+his advancing with them, the light infantry retired to the Concord side
+of the river, and began pulling up the bridge; and on his approaching
+nearer, immediately fired, and killed captain Isaac Davis of Acton (who
+with his company of minute-men made the front) and one of the privates.
+The fire was returned, a skirmish ensued, and the troops were forced to
+retreat, having several men killed and wounded, and lieutenant Gould
+(who would have been killed had not a minister present prevented) with
+some others taken. One of their wounded, who was left behind, attempting
+to get up, was assaulted by a young fellow going after the pursuers to
+join them, who, not being under the feelings of humanity, barbarously
+broke his skull with a small hatchet, and let out his brains, but
+neither scalped him nor cut off his ears. This event may give rise to
+some malevolent pen to write, that many of the killed and wounded at
+Lexington, were not only scalped, but had their eyes forced out of the
+sockets by the fanatics of New-England; not one was so treated either
+there or at Concord. You have the real fact. The poor object languished
+for an hour or two before he expired.
+
+The party was joined by the main body; and the whole detachment
+retreated with the utmost expedition; for all the country was now up in
+arms, and attacked the troops on every quarter. In their march of six
+miles back to Lexington, they were exceedingly annoyed, not only by
+those who pressed upon their rear; but by others, who fired upon them
+from behind the stone walls and other coverts, which supplied the place
+of lines and redoubts to the provincials. At Lexington they were joined
+by a detachment under lord Percy.
+
+The news of what had happened at Lexington, in their way to Concord,
+flew to Boston and the neighborhood. But the slaughter of the militia
+men was carefully concealed from general Gage, who was not made
+acquainted with it till late in the afternoon. He had however, early
+intelligence of the rising of the country, and therefore detached, about
+eight in the morning, lord Percy, with 16 companies of foot, and a
+number of marines, 900 men in the whole, and two pieces of cannon, to
+support colonel Smith. The brigade marched out, playing, by way of
+contempt, _Yankee Doodle_, a song composed in derision of the
+New-Englanders, scornfully called _Yankees_. A smart boy observing it as
+the troops passed through Roxbury, made himself extremely merry with the
+circumstance, jumping and laughing, so as to attract the notice of his
+lordship, who, it is said, asked him at what he was laughing so
+heartily; and was answered, “To think how you will dance by and by to
+_Chevy Chace_.” It is added, that the repartee stuck by his lordship the
+whole day.
+
+You may wish to know the origin of the term _Yankee_. Take the best
+account of it which your friend can procure. It was a cant, favorite
+word with farmer Jonathan Hastings, of Cambridge, about 1713. Two aged
+ministers, who were at the college in that town, have told me, they
+remembered it to have been then in use among the students, but had no
+recollection of it before that period. The inventor used it to express
+excellency. A Yankee good horse, or Yankee cider, and the like, were an
+excellent good horse, and excellent cider. The students used to hire
+horses of him; their intercourse with him, and his use of the term upon
+all occasions, led them to adopt it, and they gave him the name of
+Yankee Jon. He was a worthy honest man, but no conjurer. This could not
+escape the notice of the collegiates. Yankee probably became a by-word
+among them, to express a weak, simple, aukward person; was carried from
+the college with them when they left it, and was in that way circulated
+and established through the country (as was the case in respect to
+_Hobson’s choice_,[115] by the students at Cambridge, in Old England)
+till, from its currency in New-England, it was at length taken up and
+unjustly applied to the New-Englanders in common, as a term of reproach.
+
+The junction of the brigade under lord Percy, with the detachment under
+colonel Smith, gave the last a breathing time, especially as they now
+had cannon, which awed the provincials from pressing upon the rear in a
+direct line. But the whole force ventured not to halt long; for far and
+wide the minute-men and militia were collecting, in order to cut off
+their retreat to Boston. They soon renewed their march; constant
+skirmishing succeeded, and a continued fire, though often irregular and
+scattering on their side, as well as on the part of the provincials. The
+close firing from behind the walls, by good marksmen, for such were
+almost all the provincials, put the troops into no small confusion, and
+made it so dangerous for the officers, that they were more attentive to
+their safety than in common. Major Pitcairn quitted his horse, which was
+taken with the pistols in the holsters. The soldiers loaded and fired
+over the stone walls, when there was not a single man behind them. They
+were incommoded by the wind’s blowing the smoke directly back upon them
+all the time they were retreating; during which they burnt some houses,
+attempted others, and plundered many of every thing valuable, destroying
+what they could not carry off. They killed several innocent unarmed
+persons; and murdered two old men at Menotomy. Before they reached this
+place, a few Americans, headed by the Rev. Mr. Payson, of Chelsea, who
+till now had been extremely moderate, attacked a party of twelve
+soldiers, carrying stores to the retreating troops, killed one, wounded
+several, made the whole prisoners, and gained possession of their arms
+and stores, without any loss whatever to themselves. The regulars, when
+near Cambridge, were upon the point of taking a wrong road, which would
+have led them into the most imminent danger, but were prevented by the
+direction of a young gentleman residing at the college; by which mean
+they made good their retreat a little after sun-set over Charlestown
+Neck, to Bunker’s Hill, but spent and wore down by the excessive
+fatigues they had undergone, having marched that day between thirty and
+forty miles, here they remained secure till the next day, when they
+crossed at Charlestown ferry, and returned to Boston.
+
+Lieutenant-colonel Smith was much displeased with the soldiers firing at
+Lexington; probably general Gage had given orders that they should not
+fire unless they were first fired upon. Major Pitcairn undoubtedly
+directed them to fire, from the mistaken apprehension he had entertained
+of American resolution, for he has the character of a good tempered
+officer. There were never more than about four hundred provincials
+together, attacking at one and the same time; and often scarce that
+number. But as some tired and gave out, others came up. They had very
+little appearance of discipline. Privates and officers fired away as
+they had opportunity of doing execution, without waiting for the word of
+command; and used their knowledge of the country to gain the
+opportunity, by crossing fields and fences, of acting as flanking
+parties against the regulars, while these proceeded along the road.
+Colonel Pickering, of Salem, had the command of a fine well exercised
+provincial regiment; had he pushed on with his men, so as to have headed
+the British before they had gained Charlestown Neck (and he was near
+enough) they must have clubbed their firelocks, for they were quite
+wearied out with the services of the day, and had but a round or two of
+ammunition remaining. No satisfactory reason has been assigned for the
+want of greater alertness in colonel Pickering’s regiment. The British
+officers are astonished, chagrined, and mortified beyond measure at what
+has happened. It’s death to all their glorying; their best troops have
+been obliged in this manner to flee before a number of _Yankees_, “when
+all the officers in general did every thing that men could do, and when
+the soldiers behaved with their usual intrepidity.”[116] They are sore
+at heart upon the occasion. They have had 1 lieutenant killed, 2
+lieutenant-colonels wounded, Smith is one, 2 captains and 9 lieutenants
+wounded, 1 lieutenant missing, 2 ensigns wounded, 1 sergeant killed, 7
+wounded, 2 missing, 1 drummer killed, 1 wounded, 62 rank and file
+killed, and 157 wounded; in all, 65 killed, 180 wounded, and 28 made
+prisoners; total, 273.
+
+Of the provincials, 50 have been killed, 34 wounded, and 4 are missing;
+in all, 88. The following officers and gentlemen are of the number, viz.
+justice Isaac Gardner, of Brookline, capt. Isaac Davis, of Acton, capt.
+Jonathan Wilson, of Bedford, lieut. John Bacon, and sergeant Elisha
+Mills, of Needham, and deacon Josiah Haines, of Sudbury, killed; capt.
+Eleazer Kingsbury, of Needham, capt. Samuel Williams, of Cambridge,
+captains Charles Miles, Nathaniel Barret, and George Minot, of Concord,
+capt. Oliver Barnes, and deacon Aaron Chamberlain, of Chelmsford,
+wounded. The persons who have fallen, are regretted with the deepest
+concern, and are honored not only as patriots, but as martyrs, who have
+died bravely in the cause of their country.
+
+Captains John Ford and Oliver Barron, and deacon Davis, all of
+Chelmsford, distinguished themselves in the course of the day. It can be
+fully proved that captain Ford killed five regulars. James Howard, a
+private in the Acton company, and a regular coming out of a house,
+caught sight of each other, and discharged their pieces at the same
+instant; both shots taking effect, the last dropt down dead, and the
+first expired a few hours after. A big boy joined in the chace of the
+retreating troops, and was very expert in firing at them; at length a
+ball from the enemy grazed his head, and produced a flesh wound; he soon
+recovered the shock, bound up his head with a handkerchief, and renewed
+his pursuit.
+
+Two British officers who have been taken, and the privates who are
+wounded and prisoners, are treated with humanity by the provincials; and
+general Gage may, if he pleases, safely send his surgeons to dress and
+attend them.
+
+If the contest is to become general between the colonies and the mother
+country, it may be deemed a happiness for them that it has commenced in
+the Massachusetts, where all the inhabitants are so connected with each
+other by descent, blood, uniformity of manners, similarity of civil and
+religious sentiments, mediocrity of circumstances, and a general
+equality, that the killing of a single individual interesteth the whole
+province in the event, and makes them consider it a common cause.
+
+The inhabitants are now everywhere in arms; and collecting in such
+numbers about Boston, that they will not only invest the town
+effectually, but excite disagreeable apprehensions in general Gage. No
+one is suffered to go in or out at present. The provincials have for
+their commander in chief, a native of the Massachusetts, general Ward;
+the honorable Jedediah Pribble having, more than a month ago, declined,
+on account of his bad health. General Ward might have pleaded the like
+excuse; but he wishes to serve his country to the utmost of his
+abilities, and is ready to risk his life in the cause of American
+liberty. He is to be trusted, being a gentleman of great integrity. His
+commission as commander in chief of the Bay troops, was delivered to him
+on the 20th of April, by the provincial congress. Three days after, they
+chose general John Thomas, lieutenant-general.
+
+The day general Ward received his commission, the committee of safety
+sent letters to New-Hampshire and Connecticut, with an account of the
+enemy’s proceedings the day before, and praying all the assistance in
+their power. The next day they agreed upon enlisting 8000 men out of the
+Massachusetts forces; but the provincial congress being adjourned from
+Concord to Watertown, resolved the succeeding day, “that an army of
+30,000 men be immediately raised and established; that 13,600 be by this
+province; and that a letter and delegate be sent to the several colonies
+of Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode-Island.” Head-quarters are at
+Cambridge; and the students quit the college that the provincials may be
+accommodated. General Thomas commands at Roxbury. He is a cool,
+courageous, discerning and active officer, well qualified for guarding
+the important post he occupies, and preventing the enemy’s making a
+sally over the Neck into the country should they be inclined to attempt
+it; but for the present they are more afraid of being attacked.
+
+General Gage, to secure the people within from taking up arms against
+the king’s troops, in case of an assault, has agreed with the committee
+of the town [April 22.] after a long conference, that upon the
+inhabitants in general lodging their arms in Faneuil-Hall, or any other
+convenient place, under the care of the select men, all such inhabitants
+as are inclined, may depart from the town with their families and
+effects; that those who remain may depend upon his protection; and that
+the arms aforesaid, at a suitable time, shall be returned to the owners.
+The town agreed to this proposal, and their vote upon it was read by the
+committee, upon their return to his excellency, who accepted it; and
+further agreed, that the inhabitants may remove from town by land and
+water with their effects, within the limits specified by the port act.
+He also informed the committee, that he would desire the admiral to lend
+his boats to facilitate the removal of the effects of the inhabitants;
+and that he would allow carriages to pass and repass for that purpose.
+He said likewise, that he would take care that the poor, who may remain
+in town, shall not suffer for want of provisions after their own stock
+is expended; and desired that a letter might be written to Dr. Warren,
+chairman of the committee of congress, that those persons in the
+country, who may incline to remove into Boston with, their effects may
+have liberty so to do without molestation.—An account of these
+proceedings was sent to Dr. Warren; who was further informed by the town
+committee [April 25.] “Permission will be given for 30 waggons to enter
+the town at once, to carry away the effects of the inhabitants; so soon
+as those have returned to the end of the causeway leading to Roxbury,
+then others will be permitted to come in. None will be permitted to
+enter till after sun-rise, nor remain after sun-set. If any vessel or
+boat now in the harbour, be employed to remove the inhabitants effects,
+security must be given that it be returned. It is expected that leave be
+obtained for some persons to go to the different parishes, to give
+notice to such persons who incline to come, with their effects, into
+Boston, that they may come without molestation; and it is desired, that
+the waggons and vessels employed to come to carry away the goods of the
+inhabitants of Boston, may bring the effects of those who are desirous
+to leave the country, they paying half the charge.
+
+[April 26.] Doctor Warren has this day written to general Gage:
+
+
+  “SIR,
+
+The unhappy situation into which this colony is thrown, gives the
+greatest uneasiness to every man who regards the welfare of the empire,
+or feels for the distresses of his fellow men; but even now much may be
+done to alleviate those misfortunes which cannot be entirely remedied;
+and I think it of the utmost importance to us, that our conduct be such,
+as that the contending parties may entirely rely upon the honor and
+integrity of each other, for the punctual performance of any agreement
+that shall be made between them. Your excellency, I believe, knows very
+well the part I have taken in public affairs. I ever scorned disguise. I
+think I have done my duty; some may think otherwise; but be assured,
+Sir, as far as my influence goes, every thing which reasonably can be
+required of us to do, shall be done; and every thing promised shall be
+religiously performed. I should now be very glad to know from you, Sir,
+how many days you desire may be allowed for such as desire to remove to
+Boston with their effects, and what time you will allow the people in
+Boston for their removal. When I have received the information, I will
+repair to congress, and hasten, as far as I am able, the issuing a
+proclamation. I beg leave to suggest, that the condition of admitting
+only thirty waggons at a time into the town, appears to me very
+inconvenient, and will prevent the good effects of a proclamation
+intended to be issued for encouraging all waggoners to assist in
+removing the effects from Boston with all possible speed. If your
+excellency will be pleased to take the matter into consideration, and
+favor me as soon as may be with an answer, it will lay me under a great
+obligation, as it so nearly concerns the welfare of my friends in
+Boston. I have many things which I wish to say to your excellency, and
+most sincerely wish I had broken through the formalities which I thought
+due to your rank, and freely told you all I knew or thought of public
+affairs; and I must ever confess, whatever may be the event, that you
+generously gave me such an opening as I now think I ought to have
+embraced; but the true cause of my not doing it, was the knowledge I had
+of the vileness and treachery of many persons around you, who I suppose
+had gained your entire confidence.
+
+                                                          I am, &c. &c.”
+
+
+The committee of safety have sent letters to Rhode-Island and
+Connecticut, importuning immediate assistance; and that as large a
+number of troops as can be spared, may be immediately marched forward,
+well stocked with provisions and ammunition, and accompanied with as
+large a train of artillery as can be granted. They express their
+determination, at all events, to act their parts with firmness and
+intrepidity, knowing that slavery is far worse than death.
+
+The committee appointed to examine into the damages done on the 19th, at
+Cambridge, Lexington, and Concord, have reported, that by fire, robbery,
+and destruction, the same are as follows: at Cambridge, £.901 16s. 5d.
+1–4; at Lexington, £.1320 16s. 0d. 3–4; and at Concord, £.206 2s. 5d.
+1–4; in all £.2428 14s. 11d. 1–4. sterling. The parties exhibited their
+accounts on oath, and the greatest care was taken that the state of the
+damages might be just.
+
+My friend Quincy has sacrificed his life for the sake of his country.
+The ship in which he sailed, arrived at Cape Ann within these two days;
+but he lived not to get on shore, or to hear and triumph at the account
+of the success of the Lexington engagement. His remains will be
+honorably interred by his relations. Let him be numbered with the
+patriotic heroes who fall in the cause of liberty; and his memory be
+dear to posterity. Let his only surviving child, a son of about three
+years, live to possess his noble virtues, and to transmit his name down
+to future generations. You have my warmest acknowledgments for your last
+manuscript. See that you embrace every safe opportunity of continuing
+your correspondence; you will find me in that line of conduct.
+
+The supreme power now extant in the Massachusetts, has given their first
+naval commission to captain _John Derby_, of Salem, who is entrusted by
+the provincial congress with dispatches for Dr. Franklin, containing an
+account of the Lexington fight, and an address to the inhabitants of
+Great-Britain. He sails without delay. In the address the congress
+profess to place much dependence on the honor, wisdom, and valor of
+Britons; from which they hope for their interference in preventing the
+prosecution of present measures. They make great professions of loyalty;
+but declare, that they will not tamely submit to the persecution and
+tyranny of a cruel ministry; and that they are determined to die or be
+free. They appeal to Heaven for the justice of their cause. Should not
+an accommodation take place, Heaven must grant them its special
+protection, or they will be crushed before the power of Britain,
+notwithstanding all that the other colonies can do for them; unless the
+officers who are employed against them, are not supplied with an
+adequate force, or are wretchedly defective in courage, inclination,
+activity, prudence, or other military abilities; or unless some foreign
+power for its own interest, and to injure the parent state, takes them
+by the hand. Their military stores are scarce worth mentioning. They
+reckon upon sixteen field pieces. It is well if six of them are
+calculated for much actual service. There are four brass ones, of a
+small size, that may answer a good purpose. They have a few large iron
+cannon, two or three mortars and howitzers, cannon ball, and shells; but
+they have only eighty-two half barrels of powder belonging to the public
+store; most towns have a small quantity, that however will be soon
+exhausted. Considering what ought to be the case to warrant a reasonable
+expectation of success in a military contest with a nation that abounds
+in all the apparatus of war, they may be pronounced destitute of every
+article but men; and, though these are not wanting in natural courage,
+it will take a considerable time to make them thorough good soldiers.
+They have neither money nor magazines.
+
+
+
+
+                              LETTER XIII.
+
+
+                                                _London, June 12, 1775._
+
+The restraining and fishery bill did not pass through the house of lords
+with less opposition than what it had met with in the house of commons.
+Upon the motion for committing it after the second reading, the marquis
+of _Rockingham_ opposed it with great ability, and in the course of his
+speech showed, that in 1704, the whole amount of the exports to the
+New-England colonies was only about £.70,000 annually; that in 1754, it
+had arisen to £.180,000, in the succeeding ten years to £.400,000, and
+in the last ten years, had nearly doubled that sum.
+
+The bill was carried by a majority of more than three to one; but was
+productive of a protest, signed by sixteen lords. It is particularly
+distinguished, by the severe censure passed upon a lord high in office,
+who in the late debates, most unadvisedly threw out a charge of general
+cowardice against the Americans.
+
+The fishery bill had scarce cleared the house of commons, when lord
+North brought in another, [March 9.] “To restrain the trade and commerce
+of the colonies of New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and
+South-Carolina, to Great-Britain, Ireland, and the British islands in
+the West-Indies, under certain conditions and limitation.” While this
+bill was in agitation, a long series of evidence, in behalf of the
+West-India merchants and planters, was laid before the house. It
+appeared, that upon a very moderate computation, the capital in the
+West-India islands, consisting of lands, buildings, negroes and stock of
+all kinds, did not amount to less than £.60,000,000. sterling; that
+their exports of late years to Britain, ran to about 190,000 hogheads
+and puncheons of sugar and rum annually; amounting in weight to 95,000
+tons, and in value about £.4,000,000 exclusive of a great number of
+smaller articles, and of their very great export to North-America; that
+their growth was so rapid and improvement so great, that within a few
+years, their export of sugar to this kingdom was increased 40,000
+hogsheads annually, amounting to about £.800,000 in value. The
+probability, was apparent, that more than half of the capital of
+£.60,000,000 was either the immediate property of persons resident in
+this country, or owing to them; and also that the revenue gained above
+£.700,000 a year upon the direct West-India trade, exclusive of its
+eventual and circuitous products, and of the African trade.
+
+[March 20.] Mr. Burke made a number of conciliatory propositions with
+respect to the colonies, contained in a set of resolutions, which he
+accompanied and elucidated by a celebrated speech. He traced that
+unconquerable spirit of freedom, that violent passion for liberty, by
+which the colonists are distinguished from all other people of the
+world, from the sources of their descent, education, manners, religious
+principles, forms of government, and distance from the head of the
+empire. He made it appear, that the whole exports to North-America, the
+West-Indies, and Africa, in 1704 (from England it must be, for the union
+of the two kingdoms had not then taken place) amounted only in value to
+£.569,930 but the comparative value of money at that period, was much
+greater than at present. In 1772, the exports from Great-Britain to the
+same places, amounted at a medium, to no less than £.6,024,171. He also
+shewed that the _whole export_ trade of England, including that to the
+colonies, amounted in 1704, only to £.6,509,000. Thus the trade to the
+colonies alone was in 1772, within less than half a million of being
+equal to what was carried on by England with the whole world, at the
+beginning of the present century. However astonishing this general
+increase of the whole colonies may appear, the growth of the province of
+Pennsylvania is still more extraordinary. In 1704, the whole exports to
+that colony, amounted to no more than £.11,459 and in 1772, they were
+risen to £.507,909 being nearly fifty times the original demand, and
+almost equal to the whole colony export at the first period.—This
+astonishing growth of the colonies, within little more than half a
+century, and the prodigious share they contribute to our greatness,
+makes them a matter of the first importance to ourselves, and must
+excite the admiration of future ages.
+
+The previous question was moved on the first proposition, and carried by
+270 to 78; and thus ended the business.
+
+But the ill success which has attended all conciliatory propositions
+hitherto, excepting those which have originated from government, did not
+deter Mr. Hartley from making a similar attempt. [April 27.] The motion,
+however, was rejected without a division.
+
+During the progress of the second restraining bill, an additional clause
+was moved for by the minister; whereby the counties of Newcastle, Kent
+and Sussex, on the Delaware, were included in the prohibitions of that
+bill, and carried without a division.
+
+While these matters were transacting, several petitions were received
+from manufacturing towns in Britain and Ireland, against the coercive
+acts. Some counter petitions were also received, calling for an
+enforcement of the laws of Britain, as the only means of preserving a
+trade with the colonies. Much altercation arose on the truth of the
+facts alledged on both sides, as well as on the manner of obtaining the
+signatures, and the quality o£ those who signed. The minority insisted,
+that the most who signed the war petitions, as they called them, were
+persons who had little or no interest in the American trade, but of that
+description of warm and active party men, commonly called tories. And
+they entered into several examinations to prove the truth of the former
+part of their assertion. This produced many long and hot debates. Other
+petitions were presented to the crown, and equally disregarded; one from
+the British settlers in Canada, against the Quebec bill; one from the
+quakers, in which besides endeavoring to diffuse the influence of that
+spirit of peace which is the predominant principle in their religious
+system, they declared themselves persuaded, that there are not in his
+majesty’s extensive dominions, subjects more loyal, and more zealously
+attached to his royal person, his family and government, than in the
+provinces of America, among all religious denominations. His majesty,
+however, went in person to the house, and gave the royal assent to the
+restraining and fishery bill, in the usual form. In this season of
+public discontent, when the minds of all were agitated on one side or
+other, the city of London, not discouraged by the fate of all its
+applications for a number of years past, once more approached the throne
+with an address, remonstrance, and petition [April 10.] upon a subject,
+and in a manner as little calculated to obtain a favorable reception, as
+any of the preceding. In this remonstrance they recapitluated the whole
+catalogue of American grievances; declared their abhorrence of the
+measures which had been pursued, and were then pursuing; and justified
+the resistance to which the Americans had been driven, upon the great
+principles of the constitution; “actuated by which,” they said, “at the
+glorious period of the revolution, our ancestors transferred the
+imperial crown of these realms to the illustrious house of Brunswick.”
+They beseeched his majesty immediately and for ever to dismiss from his
+councils, those ministers and advisers who had been at the bottom of the
+preceding measures. His majesty delivered the following answer: “It is
+with the utmost astonishment, that I find any of my subjects capable of
+encouraging the rebellious disposition which unhappily exists in my
+colonies in North-America. Having entire confidence in the wisdom of my
+parliament, the great council of the nation, I will steadily pursue
+those measures which they have recommended for the support of the
+constitutional rights of Great-Britain, and the protection of the
+commercial rights of my kingdom.”
+
+The earl of Effingham has uniformly opposed the whole system of measures
+pursued against the Americans, and finding that the regiment in which he
+served was at length destined for America, and thinking it inconsistent
+with his character, and beneath his dignity to enforce measures with his
+sword, which he had so utterly condemned in his legislative capacity
+[Mar. 12.] he wrote a letter of resignation to the secretary of war. In
+it he deeply regretted his being necessitated to quit the military
+profession; but said, “I cannot, without reproach from my own
+conscience, consent to bear arms against my fellow-subjects in America,
+in what, to my discernment, is not a clear cause.” Pity that it is not a
+point of honor with all military officers, to consider the merits of the
+cause wherein their swords are to be employed, and when they are not
+satisfied in their own judgments, to practise as the noble earl has
+done. Such a point of honor might hinder many a war.
+
+The British ambassador at the Hague, applied to the States to forbid
+their subjects supplying the Americans with arms, ammunition, gun-powder
+&c. and they by proclamation prohibited the exportation of all such
+articles, in Dutch or foreign ships, from any of their dominions,
+without licence, on penalty of forfeiting about £.90 sterling. Judge
+whether the profits of the voyage will not be so great as to make it
+worth the merchants while to run the risk of that sum. Let the American
+vessels repair to Holland, and the Dutch will furnish them with
+gun-powder in large glass bottles of several gallons dimensions, under
+the notion of spirits, or liquor of one kind or other.[117] France was
+also applied to, and could have crushed all assistance, by express
+prohibition; but only told her subjects, that if they afforded any, it
+was at their own risk; tantamount to—if you will venture, you may. Spain
+roundly refused giving the least hindrance to her subjects.
+
+[March 13.] His majesty went to the house of peers, and gave the royal
+assent to the bill for restraining the trade of New-Jersey,
+Pennsylvania, &c. Thus the probability of the colonies dividing from
+each other is lessened, and their union becomes more established. Some
+future proceedings in the provinces of New-York and North-Carolina will
+be likely to consolidate the whole continent.
+
+The American fisheries being now abolished, measures were necessary to
+supply their place, and to guard against the consequences of the foreign
+markets either changing the course of consumption, or falling into the
+hands of strangers. It was also expedient to pay a greater attention to
+the interests of Ireland, than what had been practised for many years.
+The minister therefore moved for a committee of the whole house [Mar.
+27.] to consider of the encouragement proper to be given to the
+fisheries of Britain and Ireland. The committee, in its progress,
+granted several bounties to the ships of Britain and Ireland, for their
+encouragement in prosecuting the Newfoundland fishery; and two
+resolutions were introduced and passed, in favor of the latter kingdom.
+Complaints, however, were made, that clauses were insidiously stolen
+into the act, to prevent its operating in any considerable extent. The
+committee agreed also to the granting of bounties for encouraging the
+whale fishery, and to take off the duties payable upon the importation
+of oil, blubber, and bone, from Newfoundland, &c. and on the importation
+of seal skins.
+
+Ministry have not confined themselves to the making of laws; they have
+also sent out against the Americans, generals Howe, Clinton, and
+Burgoyne, in the Cerberus [Mar. 28.] The transports with troops to
+reinforce governor Gage, sailed a week after from Cork.
+
+[May 15.] Toward the close of the session, Mr. Burke acquainted the
+house with his having received a paper of great importance from the
+general assembly at New-York. He observed that it was a complaint, in
+the form of a remonstrance, of several acts of parliament, some of which
+they affirmed had established principles, and others had made
+regulations subversive of the rights of English subjects. He afterward
+moved that it might be brought up. The minister immediately moved an
+amendment, which proved an indirect but effectual negative upon Mr.
+Burke’s motion. The amendment was carried by a majority of 186 to 67;
+the question being then put on the amended motion, it was rejected
+without a division. The New-York memorial to the lords was brought in by
+the duke of Manchester, who moved for its being read. After some
+altercation the question was called for, and upon a division, the motion
+was rejected by a majority of 45 against 25. The petition to the king
+was received, but the prayer of the petition was not granted. Such is
+the fate of the applications made by the general assembly of New-York,
+for a redress of their supposed grievances. It must tend to widen the
+breach between Britain and the colonies.
+
+[May 17.] Lord Camden presented a petition to the house of lords, from
+the British inhabitants of the province of Quebec, in which they stated
+their grievances, and implored their lordships favorable interposition
+that the Quebec act might be repealed or amended, and that they might
+enjoy their constitutional rights, privileges, and franchises. His
+lordship, after expatiating on the evils of the act, proposed a bill,
+which was read, for the repeal of the late act. This measure was
+strongly opposed by administration, and a motion was made by lord
+Dartmouth, that the bill be rejected, which was carried by a majority of
+60 out of 88, there being only twenty-eight lords who supported the
+bill. Much censure having been expressed or implied, both within doors
+and without, relative to the whole conduct of the bishops in the Canada
+transactions, the reverend father of that bench, stood up during the
+debate to justify the Quebec act, so far as it related to religious
+matters, which he did upon the principles of toleration, the faith of
+the capitulation, and the terms of the definitive treaty of peace, but
+many were far from being convinced, that these principles required such
+a full and perfect establishment of the popish religion, as is granted
+by the act itself.
+
+[May 18.] Sir George Saville presented to the house of commons, another
+petition from the same inhabitants of Quebec, in which, among other
+things, they represented with too much truth, that the petition to his
+majesty, in the name of all the French inhabitatnts of that province,
+and upon which the late law had been avowedly founded, was not fairly
+obtained, and had neither received the concurrence of the people in
+general, nor even been communicated to them, but had been carried about
+in a secret manner, and signed by a few of the noblesse, advocates, and
+others, who were in their confidence. They affirmed that the inhabitants
+in general were as much alarmed as themselves, at the introduction of
+the Canadian laws. They concluded by praying, that the said act might be
+repealed or amended. Sir George examined and laid open the week or
+obnoxious parts of the act, and threw new light even upon those which
+had already undergone the highest degree of colouring, and then
+concluded his speech with moving for a repeal of the late act for the
+better government of the province of Quebec. Considerable debates
+ensued, in the course of which the minister avowed his intention, if it
+should become necessary, of arming the Canadians against the other
+colonies. But he declared his firm persuasion, that the troubles in
+America, would be speedily and happily settled without blood-shed.
+Notwithstanding this declaration it was whispered, that he was uneasy
+and from what general Gage wrote last, dreaded the news by the April
+packet. For some, who professed to have the best information, asserted
+that orders were sent to apprehend Messrs. Cushing, Samuel Adams,
+Hancock and others, and to transport them to Great-Britain; and that the
+receipt of these orders had been acknowledged; but that second orders
+had been dispatched to hang them at Boston. Sir George Saville’s motion
+was rejected by a majority of more than two to one, the numbers being
+174 to 86.
+
+[May 26.] The speaker, when he presented the money bills for the royal
+assent, gave an assurance in his speech to his majesty, that if the
+Americans persisted in their resolutions, and the sword must be drawn,
+the commons would do every thing in their power to maintain and support
+the supremacy of this legislature.
+
+The king gave his royal assent to the several bills, both public and
+private, which remained to be passed into acts; and closed the session
+by a speech from the throne, in which he expressed the most perfect
+satisfaction in the conduct of the parliament, during the course of
+their session; and his persuasion, that the most salutry effects must,
+in the end, result from measures formed and conducted on such
+principles, as those on which they had acted. A favorable representation
+was made of the pacific disposition of other powers, and the usual
+assurence given of endeavoring to secure the public tranquility.
+
+[May 28.] Captain Derby arrived with his dispatches for Dr. Franklin got
+to London in the evening, and delivered them to Dr. Lee, as the other
+agent had left the country. The circulated accounts of the action were
+vague; is was plain however, that the troops had been worsted; and that
+government feared it, though they disclaimed all knowledge of what had
+happened.
+
+The Sukey, captain Brown, though she sailed four days before captain
+Derby’s vessel, did not arrive till the ninth of June with general
+Gage’s dispatches. The Gazette has given us the govermental account of
+the Lexington engagement. From the praises bestowed upon officers and
+men for their activity and bravery, it is evident, that the Americans
+made the business of the day a hard, difficult and dangerous service to
+them. The nation in general is not so shocked with this transaction as
+the importance of it requires. It was a fatal mistake to send soldiers
+instead of shipping; and no less so to order them to Boston, instead of
+planting them in New-York (where government has a strong interest) and
+securing a fortified line of communication from thence to Canada, with
+which to divide he southern from the New-England colonies.
+
+Six more regiments of foot have received orders to hold themselves in
+readiness to embark for America. They are encouraged by an expectation,
+into which they are drawn by the informations given them, of possessing
+farms and other confiscated property.
+
+
+
+
+                              LETTER XIV.
+
+
+                                             _Roxbury, August 15, 1775._
+
+  MY DEAR SIR,
+
+To prevent an omission, let me begin with mentioning, that when governor
+Martin met the general assembly of North-Carolina, at Newbern [April 4,
+1775.] he made a speech to them in a high governmental strain; and
+expressed his expectation that they would oppose so dangerous a step as
+the unwarrantable measure of appointing delegates to attend a congrees
+in Philadelphia. He also told them that they were most peculiarly called
+upon to oppose a meeting of delegates which the people had been invited
+to choose, and who were appointed to assemble at that very time and
+place, in the face of the legislature. The assembly, in their answer,
+justified the meeting of the people, and said, “Be it far from us even
+to wish to prevent the operations of the convention now held at
+Newbern.” They also took the opportunity, the first that had been given
+them, to express their warm attachment to their sister colonies in
+general, and their heart-felt compassion for the deplorable state of the
+town of Boston, and to declare the fixed resolution of the colony to
+unite with the other colonies in every effort to retain their just
+rights and liberties.
+
+Let me now enter upon the narration of the effects of the Lexington
+engagement, out of the Massachusetts colony. The news of it flew with
+the utmost rapidity; and influenced the minds of all people, answerable
+to their various apprehensions and attachments.
+
+Col. _Putnam_ served with the Connecticut troops under Gen. Amherst the
+last war. By his courage and conduct he secured to himself a good share
+of reputation. When peace commenced, he returned to the civil line of
+life. Of late he has occupied a tavern, with a farm annexed to it. Such
+a junction is frequent in New-England, and the occupation not at all
+inconsistent with a Roman character. The Lexington news was brought him
+while working in a leathern frock and apron, at a stone wall, with which
+to fence in his land. This was about eleven o’clock in the morning.
+After giving his men some direction how to proceed he went home, got his
+horse, and rode to the neighboring towns, to acquaint the militia
+officers and others with what had taken place. As he was returning, he
+found some hundreds mustered, who informed him that they had appointed
+him their general, and were determined to march off immediately. He said
+that he was not ready, had no money about him, and must go and get some.
+They supplied him from among themselves; on which he gave proper orders
+for their marching after him, and went forward in his check shirt, upon
+the same beast, and got to Concord the next morning by sun-rise, having
+rode, as he supposed, from eleven o’clock of the preceding morning, not
+less than a hundred miles within the eighteen hours. The militia that
+followed him, marched with a quick step till they reached the place of
+destination.
+
+Mr. _Benedict Arnold_ of New-Haven, had been chosen captain of a
+volunteer company by the inhabitants, when they began to prepare for
+whatever might happen. No sooner did the Lexington news reach him, than
+he called his company together, and asked them whether they would march
+off with him the next morning for the neighbourhood of Boston, distant
+150 miles.—They agreed; and at the proper time paraded before the tavern
+where a committee was sitting. He applied to the gentlemen for powder
+and ball; they demurred supplying him, as he was not duly authorized.
+The captain, in haste to fly to the help of his suffering brethren,
+proposed procuring the supply by force if needful, to which the
+volunteers consented. He then sent for the committee, and informed them
+what he was determined upon. Colonel Wooster came out, and would have
+persuaded him to wait till he had received proper orders; to which capt.
+Arnold answered, “_None but God Almighty shall prevent my marching_.”
+The committee perceiving his fixed resolution, supplied him; and he
+marched off instantly, and with his company reached the American
+head-quarters by the 29th of April.
+
+[April 23.] The news reached New-York on the Lord’s day. On hearing it,
+capt. Sears conceived the design of stopping all vessels going to
+Quebec, Newfoundland, Georgia, and Boston; several were about to sail.
+He consulted Mr. Lamb, who joined in the measure. They then wrote a
+letter to the committee of Philadelphia, assuring them that all vessels
+would be sopt at New-York, and signed it with their names, that so the
+assurance might be relied upon. The express being sent off, they
+contrived to assemble the people, without its being known upon what
+business; and when they were met, it was concluded upon to shut up the
+custom-house. The officer was waited on, who considering the expediency
+of a compliance, ordered the keys to be delivered up to capt. Sears. The
+merchants whose vessels were cleared out, dared not to admit of their
+sailing. The Philadelphia committee, relying upon the assurance that had
+been given them, so managed as that it was agreed, to shut up their port
+also against all vessels going to the before mentioned places.
+
+The hostilities in the Massachusetts threw the city of New-York into
+such a state of tumult, that it was judged expedient, with a view of
+restoring tranquility and good order, to appoint a general committee of
+a hundred, for the city and county of New-York, which answered. [May 5.]
+This committee addressed a letter to the lord mayor, aldermen, and
+common council of the city of London, which was signed by seventy-seven
+of them. In it they declared, that “The disposal of their own property,
+with perfect spontaniety, and in a manner wholly divested of every
+appearance of constraint, is their indefeasible birth-right. This
+exalted blessing they are absolutely determined to defend with their
+blood, and to transfer uncontaminated to their posterity.” They
+professed their readiness to submit cheerfully to a regulation of
+commerce by the legislature of the parent state, excluding in its
+nature, every idea of taxation; but reprobated the minister’s
+conciliatory plan. They gave assurance, “That America is grown so
+irritable by oppression, that the least shock in any part is, by the
+most powerful and sympathetic affection, instantaneously felt through
+the whole continent—that while the whole continent are ardently wishing
+for peace upon such terms as can be acceded to by Englishmen, they are
+indefatigable in preparing for the last appeal.” “Near the close they
+said, “We speak the real sentiments of the confederated colonies on the
+continent, from Nova-Scotia to Georgia, when we declare, that all the
+horrors of a civil war will never compel America to submit to taxation
+by authority of parliament.” They concluded with expressing their
+confidence of the most vigorous exertions of the city of London to
+restore union and mutual peace to the whole empire.
+
+[May 6.] The next day an association was signed by upward of a thousand
+of the principal inhabitants of the city and county. They in the most
+solemn manner declared, that they associated to endeavor carrying into
+execution whatever measure might be recommended by the continental
+congress, or be resolved upon by their own provincial convention, for
+the purpose of preserving their constitution, and opposing the execution
+of the oppressive acts of the British parliament, until a reconciliation
+between Great-Britain and America, on constitutional principles, can be
+obtained; and that they would in all things follow the advice of their
+general committee, respecting the purposes aforesaid, the preservation
+of peace and good order, and the safety of individual and private
+property.
+
+The inhabitants armed themselves also with great diligence and industry.
+But it is not to be inferred from these strong appearances, that there
+is a real and general union in sentiment among the New-Yorkers. They are
+much divided; though each party has thus coaleasced with a view of
+serving its own particular interest. The tories have joined, to prevent
+the violence which might otherwise exist, and to check the progress of
+the sons of liberty. The whigs have joined, in hope of drawing the
+others into such lengths in opposing ministerial measures as are
+reprobated by them at present.
+
+The New-Jersey people, on receiving the Lexington news, took possesion
+of the province treasury, in which there was about £.20,000 part of it
+is appropriated to the payment of the troops they are now raising for
+the defence of the liberties of America.
+
+The citizens of _Philadelphia_, beside stopping the vessels as before
+related, were spirited up to attempt perfecting their preparations for
+the most serious and painful contest.
+
+The governor of the province laid before the assembly the minister’s
+conciliatory plan; and observed to them that they were the _first_
+assembly on the continent to whom it had been communicated. After
+considering it, they said, “If no _other_ objection to the plan
+proposed, occurred to us, we should esteem it a desertion of sister
+colonies, connected by an union founded on just motives and mutual
+faith, and conducted by general councils, for a single colony to adopt a
+measure so extensive in consequence, without the advice and consent of
+those colonies engaged with us by solemn ties in the same common cause.”
+The complection of the assembly has been changed. In the choice of
+deputies for the approaching congress, made last December, Mr. Galloway
+was left out; and on the sixth of May, the house added three more to the
+number of their deputies, and the first on the list was Dr. Franklin.
+Thus have they, since his arrival, expressed their approbation of his
+conduct, and their confidence in his abilities. The plan has been since
+proposed to other colony assemblies, but with no better success than in
+Pennsylvania.
+
+The account of the action arrived at Baltimore, in Maryland, in six
+days; The inhabitants immediately seized upon the provincial magazine,
+containing 1500 stand of arms, &c. They also stopped all exports to the
+fishing islands, and those colonies which have refused to unite with
+their brethren in the common cause; and all supplies to the navy and
+army at Boston.
+
+In Virginia a provincial congress met in March, for want of a legal
+assembly, and took measures for arraying the militia, the militia laws
+being expired; and recommended to each county the raising of a volunteer
+company for the better defence of the country. On the 20th of April the
+governor employed the captain of an armed vessel to convey, by night, on
+board his ship, from the public magazine, out of about one and twenty,
+fifteen half barrels of powder, containing 50lb. each. The citizens of
+Williamsburg were greatly alarmed, so that the mayor and corporation
+addressed his lordship upon the occasion, who, in his answer, informed
+them, that hearing of an insurrection in a neighboring county, he had
+removed the powder from the magazine to a place of perfect security; and
+that whenever it was wanted on any insurrection, it should be delivered
+in half an hour. The news of the seizure soon reached Hanover county,
+upon which captain Patrick Henry, and the other volunteers of the
+county, marched for Williamsburg, with a view of securing the public
+treasury from the like catastrophe, and of obtaining a return of the
+powder, or a compensation for it. More than a hundred and fifty, all
+well accoutred, and making a martial appearance, advanced within 15
+miles of the capital; but a sufficient sum of money being paid by the
+receiver-general to compensate for the powder, and the citizens engaging
+to guard the public treasury and magazine, they dispersed, and returned
+to their respective homes.
+
+The value of the whole magazine was very inadequate to the alarm and
+disturbance which the governor’s measure excited.—Neither powder nor
+muskets were sufficient to answer any essential purpose, or even to
+justify apprehension.
+
+His lordship was exceedingly irritated at the behavior of the people,
+and threw out threats. Those of setting up the royal standard, of
+enfranchising the Negroes, and arming them against their masters, and of
+destroying the city; with other expressions of a similar tendency, not
+only spread a general alarm thro’ the colony, but excited a kind of
+abhorrence of government, and an incurable suspicion of its designs.
+Meanwhile, several public meetings were held in different counties, in
+all of which the seizing of the powder, and the governor’s threats were
+reprobated in the strongest terms. The news of Lexington engagement
+arriving when the minds of the Virginians were in such a ferment, tended
+to increase their apprehensions, and of course attention to the militia
+and volunteer companies.
+
+It was not long ere the same news reached Charleston, in South-Carolina.
+The hopes of the inhabitants, that the non-importation and
+non-exportation agreements would induce the parent state to recede from
+her demands, were blasted on the arrival of a packet from London, the
+19th of April; but when the Lexington news was received, they concluded
+that the colonies were to be dragooned into slavery. The thought excited
+the greatest indignation; but they paused upon considering their
+situation. The province, for near two hundred miles coastways, was
+accessible to the British fleets and armies. It had but a few trifling
+fortifications, and these held by British officers. The western
+frontiers were exposed to the savages; and the Negroes might be
+prevailed upon, by insinuations, to slay their masters. The governor had
+the command of the militia; and all the officers had their commissions
+from him. The inhabitants were quite defenceless, without arms,
+ammunition, cloathing, ships, money, or men skilled in the arts of war.
+The stores of the merchants afforded no supplies of a warlike nature; no
+exception having been made in the general scheme of non-importation.
+They could not, however, brook a mean submission to the dictates of
+Britain; and therefore determined upon a manly and virtuous resistance.
+Accordingly, on the night after intelligence of actual hostilities were
+received, a number of the principal gentleman of the town, possessed
+themselves of twelve hundred stand of arms, with the accoutrements;
+removed them directly from the royal arsenal, and afterward distributed
+them among the men enlisted in the public service.
+
+Let us return to notice an expedition planned in Connecticut.
+
+The necessity of securing Tyconderoga, was early attended to by many in
+New-England; but some Connecticut gentlemen were first in attempting the
+measure. Secrecy was essential to success; and delay might be dangerous.
+There was no waiting to consult the continental congress; beside, it
+would not have been safe to have communicated the scheme to that body,
+as it was known there would be individuals in it, on whose fidelity the
+Americans could not rely. Messrs. Deane, Wooster, Parsons, and others,
+undertook the affair. They applied to the assembly for a loan, which was
+furnished, to the amount of about eighteen hundred dollars, on which
+they gave bonds to be accountable. General Gage had set the example of
+attempting to seize upon military stores, and by so doing had commenced
+hostilities; so that retaliation appeared more than warrantable, even an
+act of self-defence. The expedition went on with rapidity. Several
+militia captains pushed forward to Salisbury, to acquaint Messrs.
+Blagdens (nephews to your former acquaintance, the carpenter, of the
+same name) with the design, and to procure their assistance. One was
+ill, the other[118] joined in the proposed manœuvre. After a little
+deliberation, they concluded upon spending no time in obtaining men; but
+having provided a sufficient quantity of powder and ball, set off on
+horseback for Bennington to engage colonel Allen. They conferred with
+him opon their arrival; and then tarried with others to bake bread, and
+prepare other necessaries, while the colonel went on to raise the men
+who were wanting, and who were to meet the managers at Castelton. While
+these were on their way to the place of rendezvous, they were met by a
+countryman, apparently an undesigning honest traveller, but who was
+either himself well-skilled and a principal, or had been well-tutored by
+some one or other, that had either suspected or gained knowledge of the
+expedition, and meant to render it abortive. They addressed him, “From
+whence came you?—From Ty[119], left it yesterday, at such an hour. Has
+the garrison received any reinforcement? Yes; I saw them; there were a
+number of artillery men and other soldiers. What are they doing? Are
+they making fascines? Don’t know what fascines are. They are tying up
+sticks and brush in bundles, and putting them where the walls are down.”
+Mr. Samuel Blagden put many insnaring questions about the dress and
+trimmings of the men, &c. The answers tended to confirm the man’s story.
+The company was staggered; and it being debated in council, whether they
+should not return as they had no cannon, it was determined by a majority
+of one only, to proceed. At Castleton they met colonel Allen with his
+men, and altogether made two hundred and seventy persons; two hundred
+and thirty of them were _green mountain boys_, so called from their
+residing within the limits of the Green Mountains; as the Hampshire
+grants are denominated, from the range of green mountains that runs
+through them. They are a brave hardy generation, chiefly settlers from
+New-Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut[120]. Sentries were placed
+immediately on all the roads, to prevent any intelligence being carried
+to Tyconderoga. After the junction at Castleton, colonel Arnold arrived,
+with only a single servant. The day after his getting to Cambridge with
+his volunteer company, he attended on the Massachusetts committee of
+safety, and reported that there were at Tyconderoga, 80 pieces of heavy
+cannon, 20 of brass from 4 to 18 pounders, 10 or a dozen mortars, a
+number of small arms, and considerable stores; and that the fort was in
+a ruinous condition, and as he supposed garrisoned by about forty men.
+Upon this the committee, on the third of May, appointed him a colonel of
+four hundred men, whom he was to inlist and march for the reduction of
+Tyconderoga. The colonel was known only to Mr. Blagden. A council was
+called; his powers were examined; and at length it was agreed, that he
+should be admitted to join and act with them, that so the public might
+be benefitted. It was settled, however, that colonel Allen should have
+the supreme command, and colonel Arnold was to be his assistant; with
+which the latter appeared satisfied, as he had no right by his
+commission, either to command or interfere with the others, who were not
+only out of the Massachusetts line, but the subjects of another colony.
+The names of the leaders, besides what have been mentioned, were Messrs.
+Motte, Phelps’s (two brothers) Biggelow, Bull, and Nichols, beside
+colonels Easton, Brown, and Warner, and captain Dickinson.
+
+After it had been determined in a council to set off the next morning
+early for Ty, and some of the managers had retired, a second council was
+held, and it was concluded to proceed that very night, leaving Messrs.
+Blagden, Biggelow, and Nichols, with a party of men, thirty in all,
+officers included, to march early in the morning for Skeensborough, and
+secure major Skeen, his negroes and tenants. This council might have
+been occasioned by the return of captain Noah Phelps, who the day
+before, having disguised himself, entered the fort in the character of a
+countryman wanting to be shaved. In hunting for a barber, he observed
+every thing cirtically, asked a number of rustic questions, affected
+great ignorance, and passed unsuspected. Before night he withdrew, came
+and joined in his party, and the morning guided them to the place of
+destination.
+
+Colonel Allen, with his 230 _green mountain boys_, arrived, at Lake
+Champlain, and opposite to Tyconderoga, on the ninth at night. Boats
+were procured with difficulty; when he and colonel Arnold crossed over
+with 83 men, and landed near the garrison. Here a dispute took place
+between the colonels, the latter became assuming and swore he would go
+in first, the other swore he should not. The gentlemen present
+interposed and the matter was accommodated upon the footing that both
+should go in together. They advanced along side of each other, colonel
+Allen on the right hand of colonel Arnold, and entered the port leading
+to the fort, in the gray of the morning, [May 10.] A sentry snapped his
+fusee at colonel Allen, and then retreated through the covered way to
+the parade; the main body of the Americans followed, and immediately
+drew up. Captain De la Place, the commander, was surprised a bed in his
+room. He was ordered to give up the fort; upon his asking by what
+authority, colonel Allen replied, “I demand it in the name of the great
+Jehovah and the continental congress.” The congress knew nothing of the
+matter, and did not commence their existence till some hours after: when
+they began their session, they chose the honorable _Peyton Randolph_
+president, and Mr. _Charles Thomson_ secretary, each with a unanimous
+voice; and having agreed “That the reverend Mr. Duchee be requested to
+open the congress with prayers to-morrow morning,” and appointed a
+committee to acquaint him with their request, adjourned till the next
+day. Had captain De la Place been upon the parade with his men, he could
+have made no effectual resistance. The fort was out of repair, and he
+had but about thirty effectives. Could he have gained timely
+intelligence, he might have procured a reinforcement from St. John’s.
+You have the particulars of the military stores taken at Tyconderoga
+below[121]. After colonel Allen had landed, the boats were sent back for
+the remainder of the men under colonel Seth Warren, but the place was
+surprised before he could get over. Immediately upon his joining the
+successful party, he was sent off to take possession of Crown Point,
+where a sergeant and twelve men performed garrison duty; but the
+greatest acquisition was that of more than 100 pieces of cannon. The
+complete command of Lake Champlain was of high importance to the
+Americans, and could not be effected without their getting possesion of
+a sloop of war lying at St. John’s at the bottom of the lake. It was
+determined to man and arm a schooner lying at South Bay, and that
+colonel Arnold should cammand her, and that colonel Allen should command
+the batteaus, a name generally affixed to boats of a particular
+construction, calculated for navigating the lakes and rivers, and
+drawing but little water, though heavily laden. The wind being fresh in
+the south, the schooner out sailed the batteaus, and colonel Arnold
+surprised the sloop. The wind shifting suddenly to the north, and
+blowing fresh, in about an hour’s time colonel Arnold sailed with the
+prize and schooner for Tyconderoga, and met colonel Allen with his
+party.
+
+The surprise of Skeensborough was so conducted, that the negroes were
+all secured, and major Skeen, the son, taken while out a shooting, and
+his strong stone house possessed, and the pass compleatly gained without
+any bloodshed, the same as at Tyconderoga. Had the major received the
+least intimation, the attempt must have miscarried; for he had about
+fifty tenants nigh at hand, besides eight negroes and twelve workmen.
+
+Colonel Allen soon left Tyconderoga, under the command of colonel
+Arnold, with a number of men, who agreed to remain in garrison.
+
+[May 18.] When the news of Tyconderoga’s being taken reached the
+continental congress, they earnestly recommended it to the committees of
+the cities and counties of New-York and Albany, immediately to cause the
+cannon and stores to be removed from thence to the south end of Lake
+George; but that an exact inventory should be taken of them, “in order
+that they may be safely returned, when the restoration of the former
+harmoney between Great-Britain and these colonies, so ardently wished
+for by the latter, shall render it prudent and consistent with the
+over-ruling law of self-preservation.” Whatever may be the drift of a
+few in congress, the body wish to keep the door upen for an
+accommodation. This was apparent in the advice they gave the
+New-Yorkers, three days before the preceding recommendation. The city
+and county of New-York applied to them for information how to conduct
+towards the troops expected there. The congress resolved, “that it be
+recommended, for the present, to the inhabitants of New-York, that if
+the troops which are expected, should arrive, the said colony act on the
+defensive, so long as may be consistent with their safety and security;
+that the troops be permitted to remain in the barracks, so long as they
+behave peaceably and quietly, but that they be not suffered to erect
+fortifications, or take any steps for cutting off the communication
+between the town and country, and that if they commit hostilities or
+invade private property, the inhabitants should defend themselves and
+their property, and repel force by force; that the warlike stores be
+removed from the town; that places of retreat, in case of necessity, be
+provided for the women and children of New-York; and that a sufficient
+number of men be imbodied, and kept in constant readiness for protecting
+the inhabitants from insult and injury.”
+
+Let us come to the Massachusetts.
+
+Mr. Hancock having been chosen at the last election, on December 5,
+1774, one of the delegates to the general congress; and the time
+approaching when it became necessary for him to prepare for his journey,
+Dr. Joseph Warren was chosen president of the provincial congress pro
+tempore.
+
+[April 27.] The inhabitants of Boston lodged with the select men,
+according to agreement with general Gage, 1778 fire arms, 634 pistols,
+273 bayonets, and 38 blunderbusses. The same day the provincial congress
+recommended to the inhabitants of the sea-ports, the removal of their
+effects, &c.
+
+[April 28.] A circular letter was written to the several towns of the
+colony, wherein after noting the affair of the nineteenth, it was said,
+“we conjure you, by all that is dear, by all that is sacred, that you
+give all assistance possible in forming the army. Our all is at stake.
+Death and devastation are the certain consequences of delay. Every
+moment is infinitely precious. An hour lost may deluge your country in
+blood, and entail perpetual slavery upon the few of your posterity, who
+may survive the carnage. We beg and intreat, as you will answer it to
+your country, to your consciences, and above all as you will answer it
+to God himself, that you will hasten and encourage, by all possible
+means, the inlistment of men to form the army; and send them forward to
+head-quarters at Cambridge, with that expedition which the vast
+importance and instant urgency of the affair demand.” This address was
+attended to; the men discovered a readiness to turn out for the
+salvation of their country, and the women applied themselves with
+cheerfulness to the fitting out of their husbands, fathers and brothers,
+for the important expedition, while the dangers of it were overlooked or
+disregarded. After a few days continuance before Boston, great numbers
+returned home, some to follow their business, and others to procure
+necessaries for the time they had enlisted or meant to enlist for.
+During the interval between this return, and the provincials resorting
+afresh to the place of rendezvous, the land entrance into and out of the
+town by the Neck, was next to unguarded. Not more than betwixt six and
+seven hundred men, under colonel Lemuel Robinson of Dorchester, were
+engaged in defending so important a pass, for several days together.—For
+nine days and nights the colonel never shifted his clothes, nor lay down
+to sleep, as he had the whole duty upon him even down to the adjutant,
+and as their was no officer of the day to assist. The officers, in
+genearl, had left the camp, in order to raise the wanted number of men.
+The colonel was obliged therefore, for the time mentioned, to patrole
+the guards every night, which gave him a round of nine miles to
+traverse.
+
+[May 1.] The Massachusetts congress alloted to the different towns, the
+five thousand poor expected out of Boston.—Rhode-Island and Connecticut
+had made paper-money, with which to furnish a plentiful substitute for
+cash, and to answer present exigencies. The men repairing from these
+colonies, for the defence of the Massachusetts, were supplied with this
+money; the Massachusetts therefore resolved, that it should pass in all
+payments.
+
+The general assembly of Connecticut appointed Dr. Johnson, and Oliver
+Wolcot, esq. a committee from their body, to wait upon general Gage, and
+desired the governor to write in their name to the general, relative to
+the situation of public affairs, and the late unfortunate transactions
+in the Massachusetts. He wrote on the twenty-eighth of April: and the
+committee repaired to Boston with the letter. Both the provincial
+congress and the committee of safety were greatly alarmed at the
+transaction. The first wrote [May 2.] to the delegates, whom they had
+sent to the colony, representing to them the fatal consequences that
+might follow, upon any one colony’s undertaking to negociate separately,
+either with parliament, ministry or their agent here. The last wrote to
+the colony itself, intreating it to afford immediately all possible aid.
+Governor Trumbull acquainted them, in his answer of May the 4th, that
+they need not fear their firmness, deliberation and unanimity, to pursue
+measures which may appear best for common defence and safety; and that
+Connecticut will be cautions of trusting promises, which it may be in
+the power of any to avade.
+
+[May 3.] On the same day, on which general Gage sent a sensible and
+respectful answer to governor Trumbull, the Massachusetts congress
+empowered the receiver general to borrow £.75,000 sterling upon notes,
+bearing an interest of six _per cent._ that so they might support their
+forces; they also forwarded dispatches to the general congress,
+containing accounts of their proceedings. In their letter they
+mentioned, “The sudden exigency of our public affairs, precluded the
+possibility of waiting for your direction in these important measures,
+more especially as a considerable reinforcement from Great-Britain is
+daily expected in this colony, and we are now reduced to the sad
+alternative of defending ourselves by arms or submitting to be
+slaughtered.” They modestly suggested the necessity of a powerful army
+on the side of America. They took notice, that the inhabitants of many
+of their sea-ports had removed, and were removing their families and
+effects, to avoid destruction from the ships of war; and expressed their
+confidence in the wisdom and ability of the continent to support them,
+so far as it should appear necessary for the common cause of the
+American colonies.
+
+[May 4.] The committee of safety wrote to the governor and company of
+Connecticut, most earnestly pressing them to send immediately three or
+four thousand men, that so an important post might be secured, which
+otherwise the enemy would be likely to possess themselves of, as soon as
+their reinforcement arrived. The troops were desired to be forwarded in
+companies as fast as they could be got ready. They sent also to
+Rhode-Island, and urged their marching a body of troops to assist on the
+like occasion. They proceeded to resolve, “That the public good requires
+that government in full form ought to be taken up immediately.” Advice
+was received, that a number of transports with troops were just arrived
+at Boston from England.
+
+[May 5.] That provincial congress resolved, “The general Gage has, by
+the late transactions, and many other means, utterly disqualified
+himself from serving this colony as a governor, or in any other
+capacity; and that therefore no obedience is in future due to him; but
+that on the contrary, he ought to be considered and guarded against, as
+an unnatural and inveterate enemy to the country.”
+
+[May 9.] The committtee of safety ordered the commanding officers of ten
+neighbouring towns, to march one half of the militia, and all the
+minute-men under their command, forthward to Roxbury that so the British
+troops might not come and possess themselves of that post. Before it was
+properly strengthened general Gage entertained such design. General
+Thomas, who commands there, gained information of what was intended, on
+the day it was to be executed. His whole force consisted only of seven
+hundred men. The post comprehended a large broad high hill. A road leads
+to the top of it, visible in some parts to persons at the entrance into
+Boston; it passes over the hill and descends into a hollow, from whence
+you can turn off, and passing circuitously enter again upon the said
+road. The general took advantage of this circumstance, and continued
+marching his seven hundred men round and round the hill, by which he
+multiplied their appearance to any who was reconnoitering them at
+Boston. The dress of the militia was extremely various, and consisted of
+their common clothing, which prevented the discovery of a deception,
+that might otherwise have been soon detected, had they worn a uniform
+and possessed regimental ensigns. This warlike imposition most probably
+prevented general Gage’s attacking and carrying the post, by the
+possession of which he would have had it in his power to direct his
+march to any part of the country he pleased. The colonels of the several
+regiments were ordered to repair immediately to Cambridge, with the men
+they had inlisted; and part of the cannon and stores to be removed to
+some distance of security; and breast works to be erected at different
+places to prevent the enemy’s passing into the country from Boston Neck,
+and to annoy them if they crossed the river and advanced through
+Charlestown, or if they attempted going by water to Medford. The
+Massachusetts congress concluded on disarming the disaffected
+inhabitants; and that no person should move with his effects out of the
+colony, unless leave was granted.
+
+[May 15.] They resolved upon a letter to the eastern tribe of Indians,
+to secure their friendship, and engage them on the side of the colonies,
+and proposed to raise a company of them to serve in the war. Four days
+after the committee of safety voted, that captain John Lane have
+enlisting papers for raising such company. The provincials reprobate in
+the bitterest terms, the idea of the Indians being imployed by the
+ministry against themselves; so that there is a seeming inconsistency in
+their attempting to engage them against the British troops. But let it
+be remembered, that the Indians will probably take part with the one
+side or the other; for through a restless warlike temper, they are not
+in common disposed to observe a neutrality; and that there is a wide
+difference between employing them against armed soldiers and letting
+them loose upon defenceless settlers, men, women and children.
+
+Skirmishes were occasioned at different times and places, by the
+attempts of each party to carry off stock from the small islands, with
+which the bay of Boston is agreeably interspersed, and afforded the mixt
+spectacle of ships, boats and men engaged by land and water. These small
+engagements were not trifling in their consequences. The advantage was
+generally on the side of the Americans, which elated their spirits. They
+also learnt from them to face danger, and to run hazards; and it is by
+being habituated to these, that probably the greatest quantum of courage
+is acquired. Frequent skirmishes are good preparatives, by which to
+qualify raw soldiers to fight as veterans in set battles.
+
+[May 21.] Two sloops and an armed schooner with soldiers, sailed to
+Grape-Island to get hay. The provincials followed them as soon as the
+tide admitted, drove them off by their approach, burnt all the hay,
+about eighty ton, and brought off the cattle from the island.
+
+[May 24.] A committee having been appointed to inquire what was the
+stock of powder in certain towns, reported, that in thirty-nine towns in
+Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, Plymouth and Worcester, there were 67 3–4
+barrels. The rest of the towns in the colony had none worth mentioning.
+How painful a circumstance, the small quantity of powder, to those
+Americans, who have any idea of the great consumption which war
+occasions! The want of it had been sensibly felt for some time; and
+therefore, beside the adoption of other measures, orders were given for
+the importation of that, and other military stores, but it must be long
+before they can be procured in this way, should they come safe.
+
+[May 25.] The Cerberus arrived at Boston with the three generals, Howe,
+Clinton, and Burgoyne. They were so assured in their own mistaken
+apprehensions that there would be no occasion to draw the sword in
+support of ministerial measures, that they had prepared to amuse
+themselves with fishing and other diversions, instead of expecting to be
+engaged in military service. They were astonished at the situation of
+affairs, and when in company with generals Gage and Haldiman, asked how
+the sortie happened. General Haldiman answered, “I knew nothing about
+it, till the barber came in to shave me, and said that the troops were
+gone out, and that they had been fighting. I did not choose that he
+should know I got my information from him. I therefore called my
+footman, and sent him out upon a frivolous errand, well knowing, that if
+there was any truth in what the barber reported, he would bring me word
+of it, which he did. In this way I became acquainted with what had
+happened.” The newly arrived generals declared their surprise in the
+significant looks which followed this relation from the second in
+command.
+
+[May 27.] About six hundred of the Massachusetts and New-Hampshire
+forces were employed to bring off the stock from Hog-Island and
+Noddles-Island, which lie contiguous; the intervening passage is
+fordable at certain times of the tide. A party went on and fired the hay
+and barn on Noddles-Island, on which a number of marines crossed from
+Boston; and, upon the provincials retreating to Hog-Island, were decoyed
+down to the water side, when a hot action commenced, which did not close
+with the day. The king’s troops amounted to some hundreds, and were
+supported by an armed schooner of four six pounders and twelve swivels,
+an armed sloop, and the barges all fixed with swivels. The provincials
+were commanded by general Putnam. Dr. Warren’s zeal and courage would
+not admit of his remaining at a distance; upon hearing what was going
+forward, he repaired to the spot to encourage the men. They had two
+pieces of artillery, which were well served, and did considerable
+execution. The night was very dark, but the action continued all through
+it. Toward morning the schooner got aground upon Winnisimmet ferry ways;
+the British were obliged to abandon her, and the provincials boarded,
+and after stripping her of every thing valuable, set her on fire. They
+lost not a man, and had only three wounded, not one mortally. The
+regulars were said to have suffered very much, not to have had less than
+two hundred killed and wounded. The loss was probably greatly
+exaggerated; that, however, had a good effect on the provincials. The
+affair was matter of no small triumph to them, and they felt upon the
+occasion, more courageous than ever.
+
+[May 30.] The provincials went afresh on Noddles-Island, and burnt the
+mansion house, which answered no good purpose whatever. But there are
+too many who destroy property merely because of its having belonged, or
+being supposed to belong to those Americans who have taken the opposite
+side of the question in the present controversy. The stock, consisting
+of between five and six hundred sheep and lambs, twenty head of cattle,
+besides horses, was taken off by them in the course of the day. The next
+day five hundred sheep and thirty head of cattle were removed off
+Pettick’s-Island by a party under colonel Robinson. On the night of June
+the second, eight hundred sheep and lambs, together with a number of
+cattle, were carried off Deer-Island, by a corps of provincials under
+major Greaton.
+
+The agreement with general Gage, relative to the inhabitants leaving the
+town of Boston, was well observed in the beginning; and their request
+was granted, with the approbation of all. But after a short time, they
+were detained upon the plea that persons going from thence for the goods
+of those who chose to abide there, were not properly treated. The
+embarrassments and delays which the inhabitants had to contend with,
+induced the provincial congress to order the sending of a letter to
+general Gage, to remonstrate with him upon the subject. The letter
+however, did not answer. The truth is, after a number were allowed to
+depart, great clamors were raised. Such persons as were, or pretended to
+be well affected to the British government, alledged that none but the
+ill-inclined were for removing, and that when they were safe with their
+effects, the town would be set on fire. A demur soon afterward arose
+about the meaning of the word _effects_, whether merchandise was
+included; and the general being sensible, that the permitting articles
+of that kind to be carried out, might strengthen the Americans in their
+resistance, would not admit of their removal. This proved a hardship to
+many who quitted the town, as it deprived them of the resource for
+living in their accustomed affluence. In a variety of instances, the
+passports were so conducted, that families were cruelly divided; wives
+were separated from their husbands; children from their parents; the
+aged and the sick from their relations and friends, who wished to attend
+and comfort them. The general was very averse to the allowing of women
+and children to leave Boston, thinking they contributed to the safety of
+the place, and prevented his being attacked; but of that no real danger
+existed, notwithstanding the high tone of the people without, and the
+intimations of some within the town. Numbers of the poor and hapless
+were however sent out, and several of them infected with, or not fully
+recovered from the small-pox, by which mean the provincials were greatly
+endangered.
+
+These were employed in collecting their force, from every quarter with
+all possible dispatch, which could not be dispensed with, considering
+the reinforcements which had arrived, and were arriving at Boston. [June
+3.] But they were distressed for want of money; and a letter was
+dispatched by the Massachusetts congress, to their receiver-general,
+upon the absolute necessity of paying the colony forces immediately, and
+directing his attendance forthwith; and also acquainting him, that a
+gentleman at Salem had £.375 sterling, which he was willing to lend the
+province, and which would be of the utmost importance to pay directly to
+the soldiers, and might prevent the greatest mischiefs. The want of cash
+obliged them to have a recourse to province notes, which they struck off
+night and day, for the advance pay of the men who had inlisted.
+
+[June 10.] They were better off as to provision, and established a too
+plentiful allowance, beyond what the troops could expend. By the general
+return of the army at Cambridge, it amounted on the ninth to 1581
+officers, commissioned, sergents, &c. and 6063 privates, in all 7644.
+But such was the want of regularity, that no dependence could be had
+upon its exactness. The number of privates was probably much aggravated.
+Too many of the officers did not scruple to make false returns for their
+own emolument. The large proportion of them shows that the regiments
+were far from being full, or were much over-officered. Several of the
+Massachusetts officers are miserable tools, and must be discarded sooner
+or later. It is owing to their having been elected by the very privates
+they command; and to the resignations of a number who had governmental
+commissions, but have thrown them up from an apprehension that the
+Americans will not succeed; this gave an opening to a set of fellows
+totally destitute of both courage and honor, to push themselves forward
+and get chosen.
+
+[June 12.] General Gage issued a proclamation offering a pardon in the
+king’s name, to all who should forthwith lay down their arms, and return
+to their peaceable occupations, except Samuel Adams and John Hancock.
+All who did not accept of the proffered mercy, who should protect,
+assist, conceal or correspond with such, were to be treated as rebels
+and traitors. It also declared, that as a stop was put to the due course
+of justice, martial law should take place till the laws were restored to
+their due efficacy. The proclamation had no other effect than to put the
+provincials upon looking out for the operations which were to succeed
+[June 14.] The Massachusetts congress chose their president, Dr. Warren,
+second major-general in their own forces; the first having been chosen
+the day before.
+
+A discovery has been made which will deliver down to posterity the name
+of governor Hutchinson, loaded with infamy. An accident has thrown into
+the hands of the Americans, the books of his copied letters to the
+ministry and others, in his own hand writing. By means of them, the
+several charges brought against him, of his enmity to his own colony, of
+his consummate duplicity of his advising ministry to alter the charter,
+and to use force for the establishment of their plans, and of his
+assuring them that they would meet with no effectual resistance from the
+boasting sons of liberty, whose courage would certainly fail them when
+put to the trial, have been authenticated beyond the possibility of a
+denial.
+
+When he quitted the province all his furniture was left behind in his
+seat at Milton. After the Lexington engagement, the committee of the
+town removed it in order to save it from being totally ruined. Mr.
+Samuel Hanshaw,[122] desirous of seeing how the house looked, when
+striped of all the furniture, repaired thither with the gentleman who
+had the key. He went at length up into a dark garret, where he
+discovered an old trunk, which he was told was left behind, as it
+contained nothing but a parcel of useless papers. Curiosity led him to
+examine them, when he soon discovered at letter book of Mr.
+Hutchinson’s, which he secured, and then posted away to Dr. Warren, to
+whom he related what had happened; on which an order was soon sent to
+general Thomas, at Roxbury, to possess himself of the trunk. It was
+brought to his quarters; and there through the imprudent exultations of
+some about the general, the contents were too often exposed to person
+resorting thither, and some single letters conveyed away; one for the
+public good, it being thought that if the same was generally known, it
+might be of disservice in the present moment as it had not a favorable
+aspect upon the staunch patriotism of Mr. Hancock. The letter books and
+other papers were afterward taken proper care of; and have been
+submitted to my inspection. Many of his letters beside what have already
+appeared, will be printed; those you meet with as his, in the Boston
+Gazette, or actually taken from it, you may depend upon as genuine and
+faithfully copied.
+
+Mr. Hutchinson behaved much to the satisfaction of the public as judge
+of probates. He was ready to assist, in a most obliging manner, the
+widow and the orphan with his advice, whenever their business called
+them before them. As chief justice he was not exceptionable, only when
+he supported the cause of government against the claims of the people.
+When in the chair of the first magistrate, his appointments to different
+offices were generally of men will qualified for discharging the duties
+of the same, though mostly supporters of government; he was advised by a
+British naval officer to secure Mess. Hancock and S. Adams by promoting
+them; but replied that though such a scheme might answer in regard to
+Mr. H. it would not as to Mr. A. for it would be only giving him more
+power to aid him in his opposition and that he should not be able
+afterward to remove him. Under the charter the governor cannot remove
+from offices without the consent of the council; and Mr. Hutchinson knew
+that Mr. S. Adams’s interest in the council would be greater than his
+own. He was used to profess the warmest attachments to the good of his
+native colony, and that he was ever aiming to promote its happiness; and
+would frequently show the letters he had written about the time of the
+stamp act, in opposition to that measure. He ingratiated himself by his
+free, familiar and condescending intercourse with the common people,
+whom he would join, walk, and converse with in his way, from the meeting
+to his seat. On these accounts he had a number of friends and advocates,
+who thought highly of him; but since the discovery of his letters, they
+begin to own that they were deceived in the man, and wofully mistaken in
+the good opinion they entertained of him. He will be execrated in
+America, if not in Great-Britain.
+
+The dispatches forwarded to the general congress from the Massachusetts
+the beginning of May, led on to their resolving themselves into a
+committee of the whole to take into consideration the state of America.
+Before they finished this great business, they resolved, unanimously,
+“That all exportations to Quebec, Nova-Scotia, the island of St. John’s,
+Newfoundland, Georgia, except the parish of St. John’s, and to East and
+West Florida, immediately cease, and that no provision of any kind, or
+other necessaries, be furnished to the British fisheries, on the
+American coasts, until it be otherwise determined by the congress.” The
+parish of St. John’s was excepted, as it had sent a delegate to
+congress. They continued to sit in a committee from day to day till the
+24th, when the honorable Peyton Randolph being under a necessity of
+returning home, and the chair being thereby vacated, they unanimously
+chose the honorable John Hancock, esq. president.
+
+[May 26.] A report from the committee being read, the congress came
+unanimously into certain resolutions; and among other matters they
+resolved, “That the colonies be immediately put into a state of defence:
+but that, as they most ardently wish for a restoration of the harmony
+formerly subsisting between the mother country and these colonies, for
+the promotion of this most desirable reconciliation, an humble and
+dutiful petition be presented to his majesty.” It was then resolved, but
+not unanimously, “That measures be entered into for opening a
+negociation, in order to accommodate the unhappy disputes subsisting
+between Great-Britain and these colonies, and that this be made a part
+of the petition to the king.”—Afterward, “That the militia of New-York
+be armed and trained, and in constant readiness to act at a moment’s
+warning.”
+
+Mr. Dickinson, the author of the farmer’s letter, is now a member of
+congress for Pennsylvania. His heart was much engaged in bringing about
+a reconciliation, and he labored hard in procuring a second petition to
+the king; but it was opposed by several, and occasioned strong debates
+for several days. However for the sake of congressional harmony, it was
+at length unanimously agreed to; as they that opposed it had not the
+least idea of its proving effectual, from a full persuasion that the
+British ministry would be so irritated, by what had happened on April
+the nineteenth, as to reject all tenders short of full submission.—These
+nevertheless declined voting, that measures for a negociation should
+make a part of the petition. Since the Lexington engagement, many of the
+New-Englanders believe that the contest must end in absolute slavery or
+real independence.
+
+[May 29.] Congress wrote a letter to the Canadians, stiling them _the
+oppressed inhabitants of Canada_, and themselves _friends and
+countrymen_. It was designed to persuade them, that their present form
+of government is a form of tyranny, and that they, their wives and
+children, are made slaves, to prevent their taking a part against the
+colonies in the present contest, and to procure a union of all in
+defence of common liberty.
+
+[June 2.] It was resolved, “That no provisions of any kind be furnished
+or supplied to, or for the use of the British army or navy, in the
+Massachusutts Bay, or of any transport.”
+
+[June 7.] Congress, for the first time, stiled the colonies THE TWELVE
+UNITED COLONIES, in a resolve, “That Thursday, the 20th of July, be
+observed throughout the twelve united colonies, as a day of humiliation,
+fasting and prayer.” From henceforward the _united colonies_ will come
+into use.
+
+[June 8.] Major Skeen (the father) of Skeensborough, with other
+officers, upon their arriving the evening before at Philadelphia, in a
+vessel from London, were taken into custody.—Congress being informed of
+it, and the said Skeen had been lately appointed governor of the forts
+of Tyconderoga and Crown-Point, and had declared that he was authorized
+to raise a regiment in America; they appointed a committee to examine
+his papers, as also those of a lieutenant in the regulars.
+
+[June 9.] They having been applied to by a letter of May 16th from the
+Massachusetts convention, for their explicit advice, resolved, “That
+no obedience being due to the act of parliament for altering the
+charter of the colony of Massachusetts Bay, nor to a governor or
+lieutenant-governor who will not observe the directions of, but
+endeavor to subvert that charter, the governor and lieutenant-governor
+of that colony are to be considered as absent, and their offices
+vacant; and as there is no council there, and the inconveniences
+arising from the suspension of the power of governments are
+intolerable; that, in order to conform as near as may be to the spirit
+and substance of the charter, it be recommended to the provincial
+convention to write letters to the inhabitants of the several places
+entitled to representation in assembly, requesting them to choose such
+representatives; and that the assembly, when chosen, do elect
+counsellors; and that such assembly or council exercise the powers of
+government, until a governor of his majesty’s appointment will consent
+to govern the colony according to its charter.
+
+[June 10.] It was recommended to the united colonies to collect
+salt-petre and sulphur, and to manufacture the same into gun-powder, for
+the use of the continent.
+
+[June 14.] Congress agreed to the resolutions of the committee of the
+whole house, “That six companies of expert riflemen be immediately
+raised in Pennsylvania, two in Maryland, and two in Virginia; and that
+each company, consisting of sixty-eight privates, beside officers, march
+as soon as completed, and join the army near Boston, to be there
+employed as light infantry.”
+
+[June 15.] They proceeded to choose by ballot a general to command all
+the continental forces, and _George Washington_, esq. was unanimously
+elected.
+
+[June 16.] The president informed him of the choice which the congress
+had made, and of their requesting his acceptance of that employment.
+Colonel Washington, standing in his place, answered,
+
+  “Mr. _President_,
+
+“Though I am truly sensible of the high honor done me in this
+appointment, yet I feel great distress from a consciousness, that my
+abilities and military experience may not be equal to the extensive and
+important trust. However, as the congress desire it, I will enter upon
+the momentuous duty, and exert every power I possess in their service,
+and for the support of the glorious cause. I beg they will accept my
+most cordial thanks for this distinguished testimony of their
+approbation.
+
+“But, lest some unlucky event should happen unfavorable to my
+reputation, I beg it may be remembered by every gentleman in the room,
+that I this day declare, with the utmost sincerity, I do not think
+myself equal to the command I am honored with.
+
+“As to day, Sir, I beg leave to assure the congress, that as no
+pecuniary consideration could have tempted me to accept this arduous
+employment, at the expense of my domestic ease and happiness, I do not
+wish to make any profit from it. I will keep an exact account of my
+expences. Those, I doubt not they will discharge, and that is all I
+desire.”
+
+The colonel did not aspire to the honor of commanding the army; he was
+rather solicitous to avoid it, upon an apprehension of his inadequacy to
+the importance of the service. The partiality of congress, however
+assisted by a _political motive_, rendering his reasons unavailing; and
+led him to “_launch into a wide and extensive field, too boundless for
+his abilities, and far, very far beyond his experience_,” as his
+prevailing modesty induced him to express himself. He is doubtless
+active, attentive to business, temperate, humane, formed for gaining and
+securing the affections of officers and soldiers, far from haughty and
+supercilious, though naturally reserved, which is a quality that may
+secure him from answering, without offending many improper questions,
+that the New-Englanders will be likely to ask, for they are amazingly
+addicted to inquisitiveness; this is greatly owing to the equality that
+prevails among them, and leads them into those mutual freedoms, which
+are censured in places where distinction in fortune and rank are far
+more prevalent and disproportioned. The personal appearance of the
+colonel is noble and engaging. He certainly possesses strong powers of
+mind, which will tend much to supply in a short season, any present
+deficiencies, that the want of more extensive reading, and of more
+practical knowledge in military matters, may inevitably occasion. His
+days have been spent in America, and he has had little opportunity of
+seeing service. As you have already been informed, in 1755, he prevented
+the total ruin of the British troops after general Braddock’s defeat, by
+covering their retreat with his rangers; but he has never been
+accustomed to the command of a regular regiment, to which is to be
+imputed his saying to the volunteers he lately commanded in Virginia,
+that a gun and a good sword or hanger was all the soldier wanted,
+without mentioning a word of the bayonet—it was all that the ranger
+wanted. When the last French war was closed, the cessions made to
+Britain in these American regions, cut off all expectation of future
+hostile armies in the country; and made the professed study of the arts
+of war superfluous to a person inclined to the pleasure of a plantation.
+
+Though the late Rev. Mr. Davis, whom you well remember when at London,
+inserted the following note in a sermon of his on some special occasion,
+“I may point out to the public that heroic youth colonel Washington,
+whom I cannot but hope Providence has hitherto preserved in so signal a
+manner for some important service to his country;” yet as no human
+knowledge could, at that period, fathom the events of the present day,
+and as there was no evidence of its being in a degree prophetic, it can
+be ascribed only to the admiration the author felt while contemplating
+the character of the colonel. But his being a person of strict honor and
+probity, was undoubtedly a main reason with congress for electing him to
+the chief command of the American army. They are fully persuaded of his
+patriotism, that it is not pretended; that he will not betray the cause
+of the united colonies; that he will not lavish away those scanty
+supplies, which call for the greatest œconomy; that he will never prey
+upon the vitals of his country to enrich himself, nor countenance others
+in doing it; that while he is entrusted with the power of the sword he
+will pay a sacred regard to the civil rights of his fellow-subjects; and
+that he will not add needless barbarity to the unavoidable horrors and
+calamities of war. He does not understand French; the knowledge of which
+many will view as an important accomplishment, especially should the
+continuance of the present rupture make the aid of France hereafter a
+desirable acquisition. But should the times ever induce French
+adventurers to repair in shoals to head-quarters, he may bless his
+ignorance for securing him from many impertinent, long, and tiresome
+applications of military men, of no eminence and little worth, mere
+soldiers of fortune, who are after rank and riches, both which the
+united colonies should deal out with a parsimonious hand, in
+accommodation to their own circumstances. He entered on the forty-fourth
+year of his age the 11th of last February. You will wish to know the
+_political motive_ which may have swayed colonel Washington. You must
+not look for it in any supposed neglect on the part of the British
+government, after he had done them such eminent service in covering the
+retreat of the troops in 1755. This may be insinuated to lessen his
+character. But did he even think himself slighted at the time, he would
+scarce have remembered it, much less have harbored any resentment upon
+the occasion, for twenty years together. The _political motive_ must
+certainly have been of another nature. It was probably complex. A common
+danger has united the colonies; but has not eradicated all the
+jealousies that before existed among them. New-York, Pennsylvania, and
+the colonies to the southward, have not such confidence in the
+Massachusetts Bay, as to admit that one of their own natives should be
+the commander in chief. There is too great a nationality among the
+Bay-men; such a one might be unduly prejudiced in favor of his own
+colony. Beside, colonel Washington and the other colonists were in
+pursuit of an honorable accommodation, and had not the most distant
+thought of separating from Great-Britain. They could not be certain,
+whatever was the case at present, that the Massachusetts would not
+shortly aim at a separation; it was then a matter of consequence who
+headed the army. Whatever some of the Massachusetts delegates might wish
+in their hearts, they perceived the necessity of accommodating
+themselves to the inclinations of others at such a crisis; and hence the
+unanimity with which colonel Washington has been elected; for though it
+was by ballot, it was not without pre-concerted counsel.
+
+[June 17.] A draught of general Washington’s commission was agreed to,
+and ordered to be fairly transcribed, signed, and delivered to him;
+after which the congress declared, that they would maintain and assist,
+and adhere to him, with their lives and fortunes, in the maintenance and
+preservation of American liberty. They then proceeded to choose by
+ballot, Artemas Ward, esq. first major-general, Horatio Gates
+adjutant-general, and Charles Lee, esq. second major-general. Two days
+after, they choose Philip Schuyler, esq. third major-general, and Israel
+Putnam, esq. unanimously, fourth major-general.
+
+Having attended to the proceedings of the general congress down to the
+choice of their first officers to command the continental army, let us
+return to the Massachusetts.
+
+[June 15.] The committee of safety, having received various accounts of
+the movements of general Gage’s army, and of his intention soon to make
+an attempt to penetrate into the country, recommended to the congress
+the ordering of all the militia to hold themselves in readiness to march
+on the shortest notice; and to the council of war, the maintaining of
+Bunker’s Hill by a sufficient force posted thereon, and the taking of
+such steps respecting Dorchester Neck, as to them should appear to be
+for the security of the colony. Bunker’s Hill is just at the entrance of
+the peninsula of Charlestown, and is considerably high and large.
+
+[June 16.] Orders were issued, that a detachment of a thousand men,
+under colonel Prescott, do march at evening, and entrench upon the hill.
+By some mistake Breed’s Hill, high and large like the other, but
+situated on the furthest part of the peninsula next to Boston, was
+marked out for the entrenchment instead of Bunker’s. The provincials
+proceeded therefore to Breed’s Hill; but were prevented going to work
+till near twelve o’clock at night, when they pursued their business with
+the utmost diligence and alacrity, so that by the dawn of day they had
+thrown up a small redoubt, about eight rods square. Such was the
+extraordinary silence which reigned among them, that they were not heard
+by the British on board their vessels in the neighboring waters. The
+sight of the works was the first notice that the Lively man of war had
+of them, when the captain began firing upon them, about four in the
+morning. The guns called the town of Boston, the camp, and the fleet, to
+behold a novelty which was little expected. The prospect obliged the
+British generals to alter the plan which they meant to execute the next
+day. They grew weary of being cooped up in Boston; and had resolved upon
+making themselves masters of Dorchester Heights, and securing the _elbow
+room_ which general Burgoyne proposed enjoying. But the present
+provincial movement prevented the expedition. They were now called to
+attempt possessing themselves of _Breed_’s Hill; on which the
+provincials continued working, notwithstanding a heavy fire from the
+enemy’s ships, a number of floating batteries, and a fortification upon
+_Copp_’s Hill in Boston, directly opposite to the little American
+redoubt. It is called Copp’s Hill, though the original name was Cope’s
+Hill, from the name of the first owner. An incessant shower of shot and
+bombs was rained by the batteries upon the American works, and yet but
+one man was killed. The Americans continued laboring indefatigably till
+they had thrown up a small breast-work, extended from the east side of
+the redoubt to the bottom of the hill, but were prevented completing it
+by the intolerable fire of the enemy. By some unaccountable error, the
+detachment which had been working for hours, was neither relieved nor
+supplied with refreshment, but was left to engage under these
+disadvantages.
+
+Between twelve and one o’clock, and the day exceeding hot, a number of
+boats and barges, filled with regular troops from Boston, approach
+Charlestown. The men are landed at Moreton’s Point. They consist of four
+battalions, ten companies of the grenadiers, and ten of light infantry,
+with a proportion of field artillery, but by some oversight their spare
+cartridges are much too big for them, so that when the Americans are at
+length forced from their lines, there is not a round of artillery
+cartridges remaining. Major-general Howe and brigadier-general Pigot,
+have the command. The troops form, and remain in that position till
+joined by a second detachment of light infantry and grenadier companies,
+a battalion of the land forces, and a battalion of marines, making in
+the whole near upon 3000 men. Generals Clinton and Burgoyne take their
+stand upon Copp’s Hill, to observe and contemplate the bloody and
+destructive operations that are now commencing. The regulars form in two
+lines, and advance deliberately, frequently halting, to give time for
+the artillery to fire, but it is not well served. The light infantry are
+directed to force the left point of the breast-work, and to take the
+American line in flank. The grenadiers advance to attack in front,
+supported by two battalions, while the left, under general Pigot,
+inclines to the right of the American line. One or two of the
+continental regiments had been posted in Charlestown; but afterward
+removed to prevent their being cut off by a sudden attack; so that the
+British are not hurt in the least by any musketry from thence, whatever
+may hereafter be pretended; neither do generals Clinton and Burgoyne
+perceive any[123] though properly stationed for observing all that
+passes. General Gage had for some sime resolved upon burning the town,
+when once any works were raised by the Americans upon the hills
+belonging to it;[124] and while the British are advancing nearer and
+nearer to the attack, orders come to Copp’s Hill for executing the
+resolution; soon after a carcass is discharged, which sets fire to an
+old house near the ferry way; the fire spreads, and most of the place is
+instantly in flames. The houses at the eastern end of Charlestown are
+fired by men landed from the boats. The regulars derive no advantage
+from the smoke of the conflagration, for the wind suddenly shifting,
+carries it another way, so that they have not the cover of it in their
+approach. The provincials have not a rifleman among them, not one being
+yet arrived from the southward; nor have they any rifle guns; they have
+only common muskets, nor are these in general furnished with bayonets;
+but then they are almost all marksmen, being accustomed to sporting of
+one kind or other from their youth. A number of the Massachusetts troops
+are in the redoubt and the part of the breast-work nearest it. The left
+of the breast-work, and the open ground stretching beyond its point to
+the water side, through which there has not been the opportunity of
+carrying the work, is occupied partly by the Massachusetts forces, and
+partly by the Connecticut, under capt. Nolton of Ashford, and the
+New-Hampshire, under colonel Stark.
+
+By the direction of the officers, the troops upon the open ground pull
+up the post and rail fence, and carrying it forward to another of the
+same kind, and putting some newly mowed grass between them, form a
+slight defence in some parts. General Warren joins the Massachusetts
+forces in one place, and general Pomeroy in another. General Putnam is
+busily engaged in aiding and encouraging, here and there as the case
+requires. The provincials are impatiently waiting the attack of the
+enemy. What scenes now offer to our view! Here, a large and noble town,
+consisting of about 300 dwelling houses, and near upon 200 other
+buildings, in one great blaze, burning with amazing fury, being chiefly
+timber, with but little exception. The only place of worship, a large
+commodious meeting house, by its aspiring steeple, forms a pyramid of
+fire above the rest. There, in Boston, the steeples, houses, and
+heights, are covered with the inhabitants, and those of the military,
+whose duty does not call them elsewhere. Yonder, the hills around the
+country, and the fields, that afford a safe and distinct view of the
+momentous contest, are occupied by Americans of all ages and orders. The
+British move on steadily, but slowly, instead of using a quick step;
+which gives the provincials the advantage of taking surer and cooler
+aim. These reserve their fire till the regulars come within ten or
+twelve rods, when they began a furious discharge of small arms, by which
+the enemy is arrested, and which they return for some time without
+advancing a step. The stream of American fire is so incessant, and does
+such execution, that the regulars retreat in disorder, and with great
+precipitation toward the place of landing, and some seek refuge even in
+their boats. The officers are seen by the spectators on the opposite
+shore running down to them, using the most passionate gestures, and
+pushing them forward with their swords. At length they are rallied; but
+march with apparent reluctance up to the entrenchment. The Americans
+again reserve their fire, till the enemy come within five or six rods;
+then discharge their well directed pieces, and put them a second time to
+flight. Such is the loss already sustained, that several of the officers
+say, “It is downright butchery to lead the men on afresh against the
+lines.” But British honor is at stake; these must therefore be carried.
+General Howe and the officers double their exertions. General Clinton
+perceiving how the army is staggered, passes over, without waiting for
+orders, and joins them in time to be of service. The united and
+strenuous efforts of the different officers are again successful,
+notwithstanding the men discover an almost insuperable aversion to
+renewing the attack. The Americans are in want of powder, send for a
+supply, but can procure none; for there is but a barrel and a half in
+the magazine. This deficiency disables them from making the same defence
+as before; while the British reap a farther advantage by bringing some
+cannon to bear so as to rake the inside of the breast-work from end to
+end; upon which the provincials retreat within their fort. The regular
+army now makes a decisive push. The fire from the ships and batteries
+and field artillery is redoubled. The officers in the rear goad on the
+soldiers, and the redoubt is attacked on three sides at once. The
+provincials are of necessity ordered to retreat; but they delay, and
+keep the enemy at bay for some time with the butt end of their muskets,
+till the redoubt is half filled with regulars; the works of which are
+easily mounted, a few hours only having been employed in throwing them
+up.
+
+While these operations are going forward, at the breast-work and
+redoubt, the light infantry are engaged in attempting to force the left
+point of the former, through the space between that and the water, that
+they may take the American line in flank. They exhibit repeated proofs
+of undaunted courage; but the resistance they met with is as formidable
+and fatal as what their fellow soldiers experienced in the other
+quarter. Here the provincials also, by command, reserve their fire till
+the enemy is near, and then pour in their shot upon the infantry with
+such a true direction, and amazing success, as to mow them down in
+ranks. Some of them are slightly guarded by the rail fences above
+mentioned: but others are quite exposed, and more than is needful; and
+the regulars will have no reason in future to charge them with fighting
+unfairly, because of their using defences not formed by military rules
+and workmen. The engagement between the two parties is kept up with
+great resolution, but the well-aimed fire of the Americans does
+astonishing execution; and the strenuous exertions of the regulars
+cannot compel them to retreat, till they observe that their main body
+has left the hill: when they give way but with more regularity than
+could be expected from troops who had been no longer under discipline,
+and in general never before saw an engagement.
+
+The courage and conduct of the provincials that opposed the light
+infantry, saved their co-patriots, who were overpowered and obliged to
+retreat from the fort; and who must otherwise have been cut off, as the
+enemy, but for such opposition, would have been instantly upon the back
+of the redoubt. While these brave men were retreating, general Warren
+was shot in the back part of his head, on the right side:[125] having
+mechanically clapt his hand to the wound, he dropt down dead.
+
+The retreat of the Americans lay over the Neck, which joined the
+peninsula of Charlestown to the main land; and the Glasgow man of war
+and two floating batteries were so stationed as to rake every part of it
+with her shot, it was feared that they would be cut off after all, but
+they retired with very little loss. The incessant fire kept up by the
+ship and batteries across the Neck from the beginning of the engagement,
+prevented any considerable reinforcements getting to the hill; but this
+was owing more to the cowardice of some provincial officers than to the
+execution of the shot.
+
+The number of Americans engaged, including those who dared to cross the
+Neck and join them, amounted only to fifteen hundred; but the unengaged,
+who appeared in various parts, did, by their different movements, lead
+many of the Boston spectators to apprehend, at that distance, that they
+consisted of some thousands.
+
+It was feared by the Americans, that the British troops would push the
+advantage they had gained, and march immediately to head-quarters at
+Cambridge, about two miles distant, and in no state of defence. But they
+advanced no further than to Bunker’s Hill, of which they possessed
+themselves the night of their retreat from Lexington; and here they
+threw up works for their own security. The provincials did the same upon
+Prospect Hill in front of them, about half way to Cambridge. The
+apprehensions of each side in regard to the other appeared to be
+similar. Both were guarding against an attack, in hopes of preventing
+it. Had the resolution of either led on immediately to a fresh
+engagement, the day would probably have been far more decisive. But the
+loss of the peninsula damped the courage of the Americans, and the loss
+of men depressed the spirits of the British. A veteran officer, who was
+at the battles of Dittengen and Minden, and at several others in
+Germany, has said, that for the time the engagement lasted, and the
+number of men in it, he never knew any thing equal it. There was a
+continued sheet of fire from the provincials for near half an hour, and
+the action was hot for about double that period. In this short space,
+the loss of the British, according to general Gage, amounted to 1054, of
+whom 226 were killed, of these 19 were commissioned officers, including
+a lieutenant-colonel, 2 majors, and 7 captains; 70 other officers were
+wounded. Among those more generally regretted, were lieutenant-colonel
+Abercrombie and major Pitcairn, who occasioned the first shedding of
+blood at Lexington. The battle of Quebec, in the late war, with all its
+glory, and the vastness of the consequences it produced, was not so
+destructive to the British officers as this affair of an American
+entrenchment, the work of only a few hours. Even at the battle of
+Minden, where the British regiments sustained the force of the whole
+French army for a considerable time, the number of officers killed,
+including two who soon died of their wounds, was only 13, and the
+wounded remaining 66; their whole loss in killed, was 291, in wounded
+1037, together 1328.[126] That the officers suffered so, must be imputed
+partly to their being aimed at by the Americans; and this may account
+for most of those who were near the person of general Howe being slain
+or disabled. It was a wonder that the general himself escaped. The men,
+habituated to take sight, would naturally aim at the officers, without
+expecting or waiting for orders, from an apprehension that much
+confusion would follow upon their dropping. Gage’s account of the killed
+and wounded is large, but does not equal by much, what has been given to
+one of the select men of Boston, remaining in the town, by a sergeant
+who declared he had seen the returns from the proper persons, the total
+of which was 1325. The light infantry and grenadiers, the moment they
+presented themselves, lost three-fourths of their men, and in a few
+instances more. Of one company only three or five, and of another only
+fourteen escaped. A number of tories served as volunteers, several of
+whom were killed. The unexpected resistance of the Americans called
+forth all the courage and exertions of the British officers, which did
+not fail upon the occasion; but whatever commendations they are entitled
+to upon that account, the Americans are certainly entitled to a proper
+portion of the like, for having made the same necessary. These have now
+wiped away the reproaches unjustly cast upon them by their enemies in
+Britain. Let such praise the spirited conduct of general Howe and of
+general Clinton, and attribute in a great measure the success of the day
+to the firmness and gallantry of general Pigot; but let them no more
+pronounce the colonists cowards, who will fly at the very sight of a
+grenadier’s cap. The British, beside gaining the peninsula, took thirty
+wounded prisoners, and five pieces of cannon out of six.
+
+The loss of the provincials has been trifling. The killed and dead of
+their wounds, are 139; the wounded living, 278; and the missing 36, in
+all 453. They deeply regret the deaths of major general Warren, of
+colonel Gardner of Cambridge, of lieutenent-colonel Parker, of
+Clemsford, who was wounded taken prisoner, and perished in Boston jail;
+of major Moore and major M‘Clany, who were the only officers of
+distinction that they lost. But the death of general Warren will be most
+severely felt and occasions the greatest sorrow. His enemies bear
+testimony to his importance, by triumphing at his fall, and rating it as
+better to them than 500 men. Neither resentment nor interested views,
+but a regard to the liberties of his country induced him to oppose the
+measure of government. He stepped forward into public view, not that he
+might be noted and admired for a patriotic spirit, but because he _was_
+a patriot. He was a gentleman of integrity, in whom the friends of
+liberty could confide. The soundness of his judgment enabled him to give
+good advice in private consultations. His powers of speech and reasoning
+commanded respect and gained him influence in the provincial congress.
+He aimed not at a separation from, but a coalition with Britain, upon a
+full redress of grievances, and a reciprocal intercourse of interests
+and affection. He was valued in private life for his engaging manners,
+and as a physician for his professional abilities. The death of an
+amiable consort had made his life of the greatest importance to his
+children; he was willing however to risk it in the service of the
+public. His intrepidity and zeal for the cause he had espoused, together
+with the electing voice of the provincial congress, induced him to enter
+upon the military line. Within four days after his appointment to a a
+major-generalship, he fell a noble sacrifice to the natural rights of
+mankind. He was of a middling size, and, of a lowish stature. The ladies
+pronouced him handsome.
+
+The tories exulted upon the acquisition of the peninsula of Charlestown;
+but the experienced officers in the British service thought the
+advantage too dearly purchased, and their countenances became gloomy
+upon the occasion. The reason for it has been increasing from the
+frequent and multiplied deaths of the wounded. These have suffered
+greatly for want of fresh provisions and other supplies, which the
+country alone could furnish: many would have survived, had they been as
+well nursed as the wounded Americans out of Boston, of whom but few have
+died; with regard to the wounded prisoners in town, there are complaints
+of their having been ill-treated.
+
+The burning of Charlestown, now a heap of ruins, though before the
+present troubles, a place of great trade, has not had the least tendency
+toward discouraging the provincials from prosecuting their opposition to
+ministerial measures, whatever might have been the intention of general
+Gage. It has not excited fear, but resentment, wrath and execration.
+Such military executions may distress and impoverish, but will not
+subdue the colonists. They might answer for the old world, but are not
+calculated for the new.
+
+In the opinion of many, general Howe was chargeable with a capital error
+for landing and attacking as he did. It might originate from too great a
+confidence in the forces he commanded, and in too contemptuous an
+opinion of the enemy he had to encounter. He certainly might have
+entrapped the provincials by landing on the narrrowest part of
+Charlestown Neck, under the fire of the floating batteries and ships of
+war. Here he might have stationed and fortified his army, and kept up an
+open communication with Boston by a water carriage, which he would have
+commanded through the aid of the navy, on each side of the peninsula.
+Had he attempted this manœuvre, the provincials on observing it must
+have made a rapid retreat from Breed’s Hill, to have escaped having his
+troops in their rear, and being inclosed. It is said that general
+Clinton proposed it. The rejection of the proposal, if really made, has
+greatly weakened the British army, and probably prevented the ruin of
+the American.
+
+The colonists may regret, that general Howe conquered at Breed’s Hill;
+but had the provincials driven him back into Boston it might have been
+of far greater detriment to the common cause, than the present situation
+of affairs. The Massachusetts colony would scarce have been easy under
+the appointment of general Washington to the chief command, had general
+Ward been crowned with the laurels of victory. The victory, as it
+stands, will make the appointment go down easily, and prevent
+objections. Not only so, but it has occasioned Gage’s dividing his army
+to secure the conquest he has made. He has another post to maintain
+which will employ so great a force, as to cramp his future operations.
+Besides, had the British been driven back into Boston, they might have
+removed to New-York, which would have answered their general design
+better than remaining cooped up in their present position. In that city
+and colony they would have had many more friends. There it is that the
+ministry have their greatest influence. That would have been the
+securest place for the troops, and where they might have procured those
+supplies from the country which they are now deprived of. By early
+reinforcements from Great-Britain, it might have been made so strong a
+post, as to have commanded the North-river, and cut of the communication
+between the colonies which that separates.
+
+The provincials have been indefatigable in throwing up works and
+securing the most exposed parts of their lines, with strong redoubts,
+covered with artillery. They had strangely neglected fortifying the
+passage from the Neck to the post of Roxbury, and even the post itself:
+but since the Breed’s Hill battle they have compensated for the defect;
+and to make their defence the more perfect have pulled down a very good
+house (on a point where the road coming from Boston divides) which was
+built by governor Dudley, and to whose false politics many are ready to
+ascribe the early origin of those designs which the ministry are now
+endeavoring to accomplish. The ministerial army abound in military
+stores and artillery, and are not sparing in throwing shells and
+supporting a great cannonade upon the provincial works, especially at
+Roxbury. It was terrifying at first to raw troops, who, not being
+accustomed to, expected to suffer greatly by it. Some damage has been
+done among the houses in the street, one or two have been burnt, and a
+man or two killed. But the provincials stationed there have found by
+experience, that tho’ the noise is great, the damage is trifling, and
+therefore despise it. They are so hardened by repeated firing, that a
+cannonading is no more minded than a common thunder shower.
+
+Breed’s Hill engagement excited fresh desires in the inhabitants of
+Boston to leave the town. The select men had given repeated assurances
+to general Gage, that they had delivered up their arms according to
+agreement. In order to justify his detaining them [June 19.] he issued a
+proclamation, in which he declared, that he had full proof of the
+contrary, and that many had been perfidious in that respect, and had
+secreted great numbers. Some few might secrete their sporting guns, or
+curious arms. No doubt however is to be made, but that the greatest
+part, or nearly all the training arms were delivered up. The impartial
+world will scarcely acquit him of having been guilty of a notorious
+breach of faith, even admitting his own plea. If individuals had not
+complied with the proposal of delivering up their arms, yet as the
+community had done it, the innocent were entitled to all the benefits of
+the agreement. Numbers were afterward allowed to quit the town, but not
+to take their effects, tho’ that was stipulated in the beginning; the
+allowance, however, was thought to be owing to a desire of reducing the
+consumption of provisions, when a scarcity was approaching.
+
+The day the proclamation appeared, the chiefs and warriors of the
+_Oneida_ tribe of Indians, directed the following speech to governor
+Trumbull, to be communicated by him to the four New-England provinces:
+
+“As my younger brothers of the New-England Indians, who have settled in
+the vicinity, are now going down to visit their friends, and to move up
+parts of their families that were left behind—with this belt, by them, I
+open the road wide, clearing it of all obstacles, that they may visit
+their friends and return to their settlements here in peace.
+
+“We Oneidas are induced to this measure on account of the disagreeable
+situation of affairs that way; and we hope by the help of God, they may
+return in peace. We earnestly recommend them to your charity through
+their long journey.
+
+“Now we more immediately address you our brother, the governor, and the
+chiefs of New-England.
+
+“Brothers!—We have heard of the unhappy differences and great contention
+between you and Old England. We wonder greatly, and are troubled in our
+minds.
+
+“Brothers! Possess your minds in peace respecting us Indians.—We cannot
+intermeddle in this dispute between two brothers.—The quarrel seems to
+be unnatural.—You are _two brothers of one blood_.—We are unwilling to
+join on either side in such a contest, for we bear an equal affection to
+both you Old and New-England.—Should the great king of England apply to
+us for aid—we shall deny him.—If the colonies apply—we will refuse.—The
+present situation of you two brothers, is new and strange to us.—We
+Indians cannot find, nor recollect in the traditions of our ancestors,
+the like case, or a similar instance.
+
+“Brothers!—For these reasons possess your minds in peace, and take no
+umbrage that we Indians refuse joining in the contest.—We are for peace.
+
+“Brothers!—Was it an alien, a foreign nation, who had struck you, we
+should look into the matter.—We hope through the wise government and
+good pleasure of God, your distresses may be soon removed, and the dark
+clouds be dispersed.
+
+“Brothers!—As we have declared for peace, we desire you will not apply
+to our Indian brethren in New-England for assistance.—Let us Indians be
+all of one mind, and live with one another; and you white people settle
+your own disputes betwixt yourselves.
+
+“Brothers!—We have now declared our minds—please to write to us, that we
+may know yours. We the sachems and warriors, and female governesses of
+_Oneida_, send our love to you, brother governor, and all the other
+chiefs in New-England.”
+
+Signed by _William Sunoghsis_, _Nicklasha Watshaleagh_, _William
+Kanaghquaesea_, _Peter Thayeheare_, _Jimmy Tekayaheare Nickhis
+Aghsenhare_, i. e. garter; _Thomas Yoghtanowea_, i.e. spreading the dew;
+_Adam Ohonwano_, _Quedellis Agwerondongwas_, i. e. breaking of the
+twigs; _Handereheks Tegahsweahdyen_, i. e. a belt (of wampum) extended;
+_Johnko Skeanendo_, _Thomas Teondeatha_, i. e. a fallen tree. Above a
+hundred years back, a sachem of a family which was becoming extinct,
+adopted a numerous family, and to commemorate their own decay and
+extinction, called the adopted _Teondeatha_, which name is perpetuated,
+as are several of their family names.
+
+The speech was dated from _Kononwarohare_, i. e. a head erected on a
+pole.
+
+My friend the Rev. Mr. Samuel Kirkland, a missionary among the Oneidas,
+and who understands the language, interpreted and wrote the above. He
+tells me, that the Indian names of men, rivers and places, have often
+special meanings, alluding to events or qualities, as is much the case
+in the Hebrew language. The Indians are very deliberate in their
+speeches, often pausing, to engage a closer attention to what they
+deliver. They have a prevailing species of politeness, frequently
+wanting in the conversation of civilized Europeans, too apt to pronounce
+them savages and barbarians. They give close attention to the person
+addressing them. They do not interrupt him while speaking, but wait till
+he has finished; and consider it as great rudeness to be interrupted. In
+their councils every one is heard with patience in all that he has to
+say; profound silence reigns among the audience, to the exclusion o£ all
+disturbance, and there are no private confabulations
+
+The above Indian speech seems to refer to one which had been delivered
+to the provincial congress eleven days before, by the Stockbridge
+delegate, being the answer of the Indians dwelling there, to a message
+of the former congress. This answer was—“Brothers! we have heard you
+speak by your letter—we thank you for it—we now make answer. Brothers!
+you remember when you first came over the great waters I was great and
+you was little, very small. I then took you in for a friend, and kept
+you under my arms, so that no one might injure you; since that time we
+have ever been true friends; there has never been any quarrel between
+us. But now our conditions are changed. You are become great and tall.
+You reach to the clouds. You are seen all round the world. I am become
+small, very little. I am not so high as your heel. Now you take care of
+me, and I look to you for protection. Brothers! I am sorry to hear of
+this great quarrel between you and Old England. It appears that blood
+soon must be shed to end this quarrel. We never till this day understood
+the foundation of this quarrel between you and the country you came
+from. Brothers! Whenever I see your blood running, you will soon find me
+about you to revenge my brother’s blood. Although I am low and very
+small, I will gripe hold of your enemy’s heel, that he cannot run so
+fast and so light as if he had nothing at his heels.
+
+“Brothers! You know I am not so wise as you are, therefore I ask your
+advice in what I am now going to say—I have been thinking before you
+come to action, to take a run to the westward, and feel the mind of my
+Indian brethren the six nations, and know how they stand, whether they
+are on your side or for your enemies. If I find they are against you, I
+will try to turn their minds. I think they will listen to me, for they
+have always looked this way for advice concerning all important news
+that comes from the rising of the sun. If they hearken to me, you will
+not be afraid of any danger from behind you. However their minds are
+affected, you shall soon know by me.—Now I think I can do you more
+service in this way, than by marching off immediately to Boston, and
+staying there; it may be a great while before blood runs. Now as I said,
+you are wiser than I, I leave this for your consideration, whether I
+come down immediately or wait till I hear some blood is spilled.
+
+“Brothers! I would not have you think by this that we are falling back
+from our engagements. We are ready to do any thing for your relief, and
+shall be guided by your counsel.
+
+“Brothers! One thing I ask of you, if you send for me to fight, that you
+will let me fight in my own Indian way. I am not used to fight English
+fashion, therefore you must not expect I can train like your men. Only
+point out to me where your enemies keep, and that is all I shall want to
+know.”
+
+This speech was delivered the eleventh of April, 1775, by the chief
+sachem of the _Moheakounuck_ tribe of Indians, residing at Stockbridge,
+after sitting near two days in council. The provincial congress ordered
+the following reply on the eighth of June, viz.
+
+“Brothers! We this day, by the delegate from Stockbridge, first heard of
+your friendly answer to our speech to you by captain William Goodrich,
+which answer we are told you made to us immediately by a letter, which
+we have not yet received. We now reply.
+
+“Brothers! You say that you was once great, but that you are now little;
+and that we were once little, but are now great. The supreme spirit
+orders these things. Whether we are little or great, let us keep the
+path of friendship clear which our fathers made, and in which we have
+both travelled to this time. The friends of the wicked counsellors of
+our king, fell upon us, and shed some blood soon after we spake to you
+last by our letter. But we, with a small twig, killed so many, and
+frightened them so much, that they have shut themselves up in our great
+town called Boston, which they have made strong. We have now made our
+hatchets, and all our instruments of war sharp and bright. All the chief
+counsellors who live on this side the great water, are sitting in the
+grand council-house in Philadelphia; when they give the word, we shall
+all as one man fall on, and drive our enemies out of their strong fort,
+and follow them till they shall take their hand out of our pouches, and
+let us sit in our council-house, as we used to do, and as our father’s
+did in old times.
+
+“Brothers! Though you are small, yet you are wise. Use your wisdom to
+help us. If you think it best, go and smoke your pipe with your Indian
+brothers toward the setting of the sun, and tell them of all you hear
+and all you see; and let us know what their wise men say. If some of
+your young men should have a mind to see what we are doing here, let
+them come down and tarry among our warriors. We will provide for them
+while they are here.
+
+“Brothers! When you have any trouble, come and tell it to us, and we
+will help you.”
+
+  To captain Solomon _Ahhaunnauwaumut_, chief sachem of the
+      _Moheakounuck_ Indians.
+
+[June 20.] the Massachusetts congress wrote to the several towns, that
+the continental congress resolved on the 9th instant, “that no obedience
+being due to the act of parliament for altering the charter of the
+colony, &c.” and directed them to elect one or more freeholders to
+represent them in a great and general court, to be held upon the 19th of
+July, at Watertown. They also chose colonel Heath major-general, in the
+place of the late general Warren.
+
+[June 22.] Before general Washington left Philadelphia, the continental
+congress chose by ballot, eight brigadier-generals—Seth Pomeroy, esq. of
+the Massachusetts colony, the first; Richard Montgomery, esq. of
+New-York, the second; David Wooster, esq. of Connecticut, the third;
+William Heath, esq. of the Massachusetts, the fourth; Joseph Spencer,
+esq. of Connecticut, the fifth; John Thomas, esq. of the Massachusetts,
+the sixth; John Sullivan, esq. of Hampshire, the seventh; and Nathaniel
+Greene, esq. of Rhode-Island, the eighth; and resolved, that the
+officers in the army should receive their new commissions through the
+hands of the general.
+
+The same day they resolved, “That a sum not exceeding 2,000,000 of
+Spanish milled dollars, be emitted by the congress, in bills of credit,
+for the defence of America; and that THE TWELVE CONFEDERATED COLONIES
+(thus they are termed) be pledged for the redemption of the bills.” This
+is an expedient, without which they are not able to prosecute the
+defence of America, as they have neither money nor revenues to recur to.
+Some few of the delegates know, from what has happened in the northern
+colonies, that the effects of a paper emission will be bad when it
+becomes plentiful; has no stable fund for the speedy redemption of it;
+and cannot be exchanged in the common intercourse of business for specie
+or specie value. But the risk of smaller and personal evils must take
+place rather than the total subversion of the rights of the united
+colonies be endangered. No one delegate therefore opposed the present
+expedient. As the news of Breed’s Hill battle had reached them by means
+of a quick conveyance, they resolved, “That Pennsylvania raise two more
+companies of riflemen, and that the whole eight be formed into a
+battalion, to be commanded by such officers as shall be recommended by
+the assembly or convention of said colony.”
+
+Measures being pursued in North-Carolina to defeat the American
+association, they resolved [June 26.] “That it be recommended to all in
+that colony, who wish well to the liberties of America, to associate for
+the defence of American liberty, and to embody themselves as militia,
+under proper officers; and that in case the assembly or convention of
+that colony shall think it absolutely necessary for the support of the
+American association and safety of that colony to raise a thousand men,
+this congress will consider them as an American army, and provide for
+their pay.” They have gone too far to recede from the use of force, and
+so must employ it wherever wanted to secure their friends, till the
+point in dispute with Great-Britain is settled. The zeal, activity, and
+unanimity of those Pennsylvanians in general, whose principles admit of
+hostile resistance, have superceded the necessity of such like
+resolutions in respect to them. The Philadelphia militia have been
+formed into three battalions for some time; and in the beginning of the
+month these, consisting of 1500 men, an artillery company of 150, with
+two twelve and four six pound brass field pieces; a troop of light
+horse, several companies of light infantry, rangers, and riflemen, in
+the whole about two thousand, marched to the common, and having joined
+in brigade went through the manual exercise, firing and manœuvres (with
+a dexterity scarcely to be expected from so short a practice) in the
+presence of the members of the continental congress, and several
+thousand spectators. A considerable number even of the quakers, have
+joined in the military association of the city. There is one company
+composed entirely of gentlemen belonging to the religious denomination
+of people they are convinced that weapons of war may be lawfully
+employed in defending their national rights and liberties, though they
+are averse to all offensive operations to gratify ambition covetousness
+or revenge. The Pennsylvanians are careful to order the militia of the
+counties to be frequently exercised. The colony has put on the most
+martial appearance.
+
+About the begining of June a committee of congress drew up a declaration
+containing an offer to Great-Britain, “That the colonies would not only
+continue to grant extraordinary aids in time of war, but also, if
+allowed a free commerce, pay into the sinking fund such a sum annually
+for one hundred years, as should be more than sufficient in that time,
+if faithfully applied, to extinguish all the present debts of Britain.
+Or, provided this was not accepted, that to remove the groundless
+jealousy of Britain, that the colonies aimed at independence, and an
+abolition of the navigation act which in truth they have never intended:
+and also, to avoid all future disputes about the right of making that
+and other acts for regulating their commerce for the general benefit
+they would enter in a covenent with Britain, that she should fully
+possess and exercise that right for one hundred years to come.” This
+declaration was never entered upon the minutes of congress, for before
+that could be done, they received the accout of the two restraining
+acts, which proved its ruin.[127]
+
+They resolved, “That in case any agent of the ministry shall induce the
+Indian tribes, or any of them, to commit actual hostilities against
+these colonies, or enter into an offensive alliance with the British
+troops, thereupon the colonies ought to avail themselves of an allience
+with such Indian nations as will enter into the same, to oppose such
+British troops and their Indian allies.”
+
+[July 2.] General Washington, accompanied by general Lee and other
+gentlemen, arrived at Cambridge. A committee from the Massachusetts
+congress repaired to Springfield, about a hundred miles from Boston, on
+the way to Connecticut, there to receive them, and provide proper
+escorts for them from thence to the army. They had been treated with the
+highest honors in every place through which they passed; and been
+escorted by large detachments of volunteers composed of gentlemen. The
+general was addressed by the provincial congress of New-York as he came
+along. They expressed their joy in his appointment; and toward the close
+said, “We have the fullest assurances, that whenever this important
+contest shall be decided by that fondest wish of each American soul, an
+accomodation with our mother country, you will cheerfully rasign the
+important deposit committed into your hands, and re-assume the character
+of our worthiest citizen.” The general, after declaring his gratitude
+for the regard shown him, added, “Be assured, that every exertion of my
+worthy colleagues and myself, will be extended to the re-establishment
+of peace and harmony, between the mother country and these colonies; as
+to the fatal but necessary operations of war, when we assumed the
+soldier, we did not lay aside the citizen and we shall most sincerely
+rejoice with you, in that happy hour, when the establishment of American
+liberty, on the most firm and solid foundations, shall enable us to
+return to our private stations, in the bosom of a free, peaceful and
+happy country.” Since his arrival he has been addressed in the most
+affectionate and respectful manner by the Massachusetts congress. You
+must have a recourse to the public prints for his whole answer, but take
+the beginning for a specimen, “Gentlemen, your kind congratulations on
+my appointment and arrival, demand my warmest acknowledgments and will
+be ever retained in grateful remembrance. In exchanging the enjoyments
+of domestic life for the duties of my present honorable but arduous
+station, I only emulate the virtue and public spirit of the whole
+province of Massachusetts Bay, which, with a firmness, and patriotism
+without example in modern history, has sacrificed all the comforts of
+social and political life, in support of the rights of mankind, and the
+welfare of our common country. My highest ambition is, to be the happy
+instrument of vindicating those rights, and to see this devoted province
+again restored to peace, liberty, and safety.” This paragraph was
+extremely gratifying to the persons to whom it was directed.
+
+The general began to give out the congressional commissions, but
+suspended all further delivery when general Putnam had received his,
+upon learning that the appointments so degraded general Thomas by
+ranking him far below is juniors in office, that he could not with any
+propriety continue in the army on that footing, but must decline serving
+the country in a military capacity. The several generals regretted the
+mistake, and wished to have the difficulty removed. Washington
+acquainted the congress with it, upon which they appointed him first
+brigadier-general, in the room of Seth Pomeroy, who had never acted
+under his commission, and was too far advanced in life.
+
+General Green testified his regard for the commander in chief, by
+addressing him on his appointment and arrival, and by declaring the
+satisfaction he should feel in serving under his command. He was joined
+in the address by the officers of his brigade. If other generals and
+officers have done the like, it has not come to my knowledge. This
+singular instance of respect must make a favorable and lasting
+impression on the mind of general Washington. The general, after a
+careful inspection, could not estimate the continental army at more than
+14,500 men capable of duly, who had to defend an extent of at least
+twelve miles. But such has been the precaution and guard exercised on
+every side of Boston, that the regiment of light cavalry arrived there,
+has not set foot beyond the garrison, and serves only to create new
+wants, and to increase the inconveniencies of the people as well as of
+the British army. The hay growing upon the islands, together with the
+sheep and cattle remaining upon them, proved an object of necessary
+attention:—but the continentals possessing a number of whale boats, and
+being masters of the shores and inlets, were successful in burning,
+destroying, or carrying off those essential articles of supply,
+notwithstanding the number of British ships of war and armed vessels.
+
+[July 11.] A party of 500 continentals went at night from the Roxbury
+camp, and getting into 65 whale boats, proceeded to Long-Island, and
+brought off 15 of the enemy, about 20 head of cattle, and 100 sheep. The
+next day [July 12.] they went again and burnt the hay, &c., when there
+was considerable fighting between them and the British boats and
+schooners. About six days after, a number burnt the light-house on an
+island, nine miles below Boston, at the entrance of the harbour, though
+a man of war lay within a mile of the place.
+
+Since the arrival of the continental generals, the regulations of the
+camp have been greatly for the better. Before, there was little
+emulation among the officers: and the soldiers were lazy, disorderly and
+dirty. The freedom of which the New-Englanders have alway been
+accustomed, makes them impatient of controul, and renders it extremely
+difficult to establish that discipline so essential to troops, in order
+to success. Discipline will not inspire cowards with courage, but it
+will make them fight. The army has been thrown into three grand
+divisions: general Ward commands the right wing at Roxbury; general Lee
+the left at Prospect Hill; and the centre, in which is included a corps
+de reserve, is commanded by general Washington. Adjutant-general Gates
+has been of special service in arranging the army. His military skill in
+those matters has supplied the want of it in others. The public cannot
+be too thankful for this benefit. Every officer and private begins to
+know his place and duty. Method and punctuality are growing into use,
+and becoming habitual. The troops will shortly have the mechanism and
+movements, as well as the name of an army.
+
+The continental lines are so strengthened, the number of redoubts and
+mounted cannon so many, as to make an attack upon Cambridge, or a
+penetration into the country that way impracticable. The British
+according to the intelligence obtained from Boston, have lost by death,
+including the slain, and those who died of their wounds near upon 2500,
+since the nineteenth of April.
+
+General Washington acquainted congress, that the allowance of provisions
+to the troops and the mode of delivering out, are different from what
+has fallen within his experience, and must prove very wasteful and
+expensive. The high pay of the soldiers,[128] which greatly exceeds that
+of the British will make a more œconomical plan necessary. But the most
+painful information he had to communicate, was that of the want of
+powder. [August 13.] He discovered, that the whole stock of the army at
+Roxbury, Cambridge, and the adjacent places, consisted but of ninety
+barrels or thereabouts: that there were no more than 36 in the
+Massachusetts magazine, which with the stock of New-Hampshire,
+Rhode-Island and Connecticut, made but 9937lb. not more than nine rounds
+a man. The continentals remained in this destitute condition for about a
+fortnight or more, till the Jersey committee of Elizabeth-Town, upon
+receiving the alarming news, sent on a few tons, which they were obliged
+to do with the greatest privacy, lest the fears of their own people, had
+it been known, should have stopt it for their own use, in case of an
+emergency. During this interval, the scarcity of powder became a camp
+talk; and a deserter carried the account of it to Boston. The British
+dared not to rely upon the intelligence, having been so often deceived.
+Beside, though they had met with unexpected proofs of American courage,
+yet they could not believe the colonists possessed of such consummate
+assurance, as to continue investing them, while so destitute of
+ammunition. They rather suspected a deep laid plot to ensnare them.
+
+All the riflemen are arrived in camp. The congressional resolve, for
+raising eight hundred, passed on the fourteenth of June, and on the
+twenty second they agreed upon two additional companies of
+Pennsylvanians. No orders were dispatched before the fourteenth, and the
+expresses had to ride three or four hundred miles to the persons
+directed to raise them. The men to the amount of 1430, were raised,
+completely armed, most with their own rifles, and accoutred for the
+field with such expedition as to join the army at Cambridge, one company
+on the 25th of July, the rest on the 5th and 7th of August; all had
+marched from four to seven hundred miles. The whole business was
+performed in less than two months, without a farthing advanced from the
+continental treasury.
+
+The present is a good time for relating what the congress have been
+doing.
+
+[July 6.] They agreed to a _Declaration_ in behalf of the colonies,
+_setting forth the causes and necessity of their taking up arms_. After
+enumerating the injuries they had suffered, they reprobated the
+principles of lord North’s conciliatory plan, without naming it, and
+said, “Parliament adopted an insidious manœuver, calculated to divide
+us, to establish a perpetual auction of taxations, where colony should
+bid against colony, all of them uninformed what ransom would redeem
+their lives.” They went on to mention the perfidy of general Gage in
+breaking his agreement with the inhabitants of Boston—the wanton burning
+of Charlestown, and a considerable number of houses in other places—the
+seizure of their ships and vessels—the instigation of the Canadians and
+Indians to fall upon them. They then said, “We are reduced to the
+alternative of choosing an unconditional submission to the tyranny of
+irritated ministers, or resistance by force. The latter is our choice.
+We have counted the cost of this contest, and find nothing so dreadful
+as voluntary slavery. Honor, justice, and humanity, forbid us tamely to
+surrender that freedom which we received from our gallant ancestors, and
+which our innocent posterity have a right to receive from us. We cannot
+endure the infamy and guilt of resigning succeeding generations to that
+wretchedness which inevitably awaits them, if we basely entail
+hereditary bondage upon them.”
+
+“Our cause is just. Our union is perfect. Our internal resources are
+great; and if necessary _foreign assistance_ is undoubtedly attainable.”
+This intimation of _foreign assistance_, was not founded upon any
+private information, but flowed solely from the persuasion that one or
+more foreign powers will readily embrace the opportunity of a fixed
+breach between Great-Britain and the colonies, to weaken the power of
+the first by assisting the last. But that they might not by their
+declaration, disquiet the minds of their friends and fellow-subjects,
+congress assured them, that they meant not to dissolve that union which
+had so long and so happily subsisted between them and Britain. They
+concluded thus, “With an humble confidence in the mercies of the supreme
+and impartial Judge and Ruler of the universe, we most devoutly implore
+his divine goodness to protect us happily through this great conflict,
+to dispose our adversaries to reconciliation on reasonable terms, and
+thereby to relieve the empire from the calamities of civil war.”
+
+The declaration of congress has been read with religious solemnity by
+the chaplains, to the different bodies of the American army about
+Boston, and received with loud acclamations by the troops, and the
+numerous spectators who were present upon the occasion. The same day
+that congress agreed upon the declaration, they resolved upon a letter
+of thanks to the lord mayor, aldermen, and livery of the city of London,
+for their virtuous and spirited opposition to the oppressive and ruinous
+system of colony administration adopted by the British ministry.
+
+[July 8.] The petition to the king being ready, it was signed by the
+members present. It is a decent, dutiful, and truly filial petition, and
+deserves to be written in letters of gold, for the sentiments it
+breathes toward the parent state. Had money been wanting to have
+purchased it, it would have been wisdom to have bought it at any price.
+If properly received, it may be made the basis of an internal compact
+between Great-Britain and her American colonies, which may to all ages
+bid defiance to the intrigues of France, and the murmurs of rotten
+hearted men, either in Britain or America. The sincerity of it may be
+called into question by the ministry. Let them put the sincerity of it
+to the test, by promoting a compliance with the contents, and so
+over-reach those individual delegates who may wish a continuance of the
+present quarrel. The colonies, as yet, desire no more than a redress of
+grievances, and security against a repetition of them. They most
+ardently long for a firm and indissoluble union with the parent state,
+upon these grounds. Thus it is with the army. It is the wish of general
+Washington particularly, and such is its reasonableness, that he hopes
+and expects that the contest will be shortly terminated, so as to admit
+of his eating his next Christmas dinner at his own delightful residence
+on _Mount Vernon_.
+
+The same day the congress agreed to an _Address to the inhabitants of_
+Great-Britain—In it they said, “We have again presented an humble and
+dutiful petition to our sovereign; and to remove every imputation of
+obstinacy, have requested his majesty to direct some mode by which the
+united applications of his faithful colonists may be improved into a
+happy and permanent reconciliation. We are willing to treat on such
+terms as can alone render an accommodation lasting; and we flatter
+ourselves that our pacific endeavors will be attended with a removal of
+ministerial troops, and a repeal of those laws, of the operation of
+which we complain, on the one part, and a disbanding of our army, and a
+dissolution of our commercial associations, on the other.” They, after
+that, insinuated the danger the inhabitants of Britain would be in of
+losing their freedom, in case their American brethren were subdued. The
+address is intended to conciliate the minds of the inhabitants of
+Britain to the measures that the colonists have already taken, or may be
+obliged further to take, and to obtain the countenance of the former.
+
+The petition to the king, the address to the inhabitants of
+Great-Britain, and the letter to the lord mayor, &c. were ordered to be
+sent under cover to Richard Penn, esq. whom the president was to
+request, in behalf of the congress, to join with the colony agents in
+presenting the petition to the king. Mr. Penn sailed four days after
+this order, for England.
+
+[July 12.] The congress agreed upon appointing commissioners to
+superintend Indian affairs in behalf of the colonies.—Proper talks to
+the Indians were ordered to be prepared, which were reported the next
+day [July 13.] and accepted.
+
+[July 18.] The congress resolved to recommend to all able-bodied
+effective men in each colony, between sixteen and fifty, immediately to
+form themselves into regular companies of militia; to acquire military
+skill, and to be well prepared for defence; and that a fourth part of
+the militia in every colony be selected for minute-men, and be ready to
+march wherever their assistance may be required. It was earnestly
+recommended to those who could not conscientiously bear arms in any case
+to contribute liberally to the relief of their distressed brethren, and
+to do all other services to their oppressed country, which they could
+consistently with their religious principles. They also proposed that
+each colony should appoint a committee of safety, to direct all matters
+necessary for the security of their respective colonies, in the recess
+of their assemblies and conventions; and should make such provision, by
+armed vessels or otherwise, as might be judged expedient for the
+protection of their harbours and navigation on their sea-coasts, against
+all hostile cutters and ships of war.
+
+[July 20.] This being the day appointed for the continental fast,
+congress agreed to meet, and go in a body to divine service both parts
+of the day. They requested Mr. _Duche_ to preach before them in the
+morning, and Dr. _Allison_ in the afternoon. But before the service,
+they met time enough to read some dispatches brought by express from
+general Schuyler, and a letter from the convention of Georgia, setting
+forth that the colony had acceded to the general association, and
+appointed delegates to attend the congress.
+
+The day was kept at Philadelphia as the most solemn fast ever held in
+that city. It was religiously observed throughout the united colonies.
+The united synod of New-York and Philadelphia had published a pastoral
+letter some time before; it was read on that day in the churches under
+their care, which are very numerous. They said in it, “As the whole
+continent, with hardly any exception, seem determined to defend their
+rights by force of arms, it becomes the peculiar duty of those who
+profess a willingness to hazard their lives in the cause of liberty, to
+be prepared for death, which to many must be a certain, and to every one
+is a possible or probable event. It is well known to you (otherwise it
+would be impudent thus publicly to profess) that we have not been
+instrumental in inflaming the minds of the people, or urging them to
+acts of violence and disorder. Perhaps no instance can be given, on so
+interesting a subject, in which political sentiments have been so long
+and so fully kept from the pulpit, and even malice itself has not
+charged us with laboring from the press; but things are now come to such
+a height, that we do not wish to conceal our opinions as men. Suffer us
+therefore to exhort you, by assuring you, that there is no army so
+formidable as those who are superior to the fear of death. Let,
+therefore, every one who, from generosity of spirit, or benevolence of
+heart, offers himself as a champion in his country’s cause, be persuaded
+to reverence the _Lord of Hosts_, and walk in the fear of the _Prince of
+the kings of the earth_, and then he may, with the most unshaken
+firmness, expect the issue either in death or victory.”
+
+After several other exhortations, they offered six advices, in substance
+as follows: 1st, Let every opportunity be taken to express your
+attachment to king George and the revolution principles. We recommend
+esteem and reverence for the person of the prince, who has probably been
+misled into the late and present measures by those about him; neither
+have we any doubt, that they themselves have been in a great degree
+deceived by false information from interested persons residing in
+America.—2dly, Be careful to maintain the union which at present
+subsists in all the colonies, on which the success of every measure
+depends.—3dly, We earnestly beseech all societies to watch over their
+members, and discourage luxury of living, public diversions, and gaming
+of all kinds.—4thly, We recommend a regard to public order and peace;
+that all persons conscientiously pay their debts, and to the utmost of
+their power serve one another, so that the evils inseparable from a
+civil war may not be augmented by wantonness and irregularity.—5thly, We
+recommend to all ranks, but particularly to those who may be called to
+action, a spirit of humanity and mercy. We recommend that meekness and
+gentleness of spirit which is the noblest attendant on true valor. That
+man will fight most bravely, who never fights but when it is necessary,
+and who ceases to fight as soon as the necessity is over.—Lastly, We
+would recommend to all societies, not to content themselves with
+attending devoutly on fasts, but to continue habitually in prayer, and
+to have frequent voluntary meetings for solemn intercession with God on
+the important trial.”
+
+The accession of Georgia, was owing much to the exertions of the
+reverend Dr. Zubly; who roused the attention of many in the province to
+the alarming situation of American affairs; so that at length a general
+election was held for delegates to set in provincial congress. They met
+on the fourth of July in Savannah: and requested the governor to appoint
+a day of fasting and prayer throughout the province, that a happy
+reconciliation might soon take place between America and the parent
+state, and that, under the auspicious reign of his majesty and his
+descendants, both countries might remain united, virtuous, free and
+happy, till time should be no more. His excellency James Wright
+consented, as the request was expressed in such loyal and dutiful terms,
+and the ends proposed such as every good man most ardently wished. They
+chose the reverend Dr. Zubly, and four others, delegates to represent
+the province in the continental congress; and at once entered into all
+the spirit of the resolutions formed by the other colonies, and adopted
+similar. They declared, that, though their province was not included in
+the late restraining bill, they considered that circumstance rather as
+an insult than a favor, as being meant to break the union of the
+provinces, as being grounded on the supposition, that the inhabitants of
+the excepted province could be base enough to turn the oppression of
+America into a mean advantage. They also agreed upon an humble address
+and representation to his majesty, which as it was not deficient in a
+certain freshness of colouring, had the appearance of novelty.
+
+[July 25.] The congress agreed in an address to the assembly of Jamaica:
+and in it said, “We receive uncommon pleasure from observing the
+principles of our righteous opposition distinguished by your
+approbation. We feel the warmest gratitude for your pathetic mediation
+in our behalf with the crown. The peculiar situation of your island
+forbids your assistance. But we having your good wishes to the friends
+of liberty and mankind, shall always derive consolation.”
+
+They also resolved, That a body of forces, not exceeding five thousand,
+be kept up in the New-York department:—and that a further sum of one
+million Spanish milled dollars, be struck in bills of thirty dollars
+each.
+
+[July 26.] They established a post-office, to reach from Falmouth, in
+New-England, to Savannah, in Georgia; and then unanimously elected
+Benjamin Franklin, esq. post-master general.
+
+[July 27.] They proceeded to the establishment of an hospital for an
+army of 20,000 men; and elected Benjamin Church, to be director of and
+physician in it.
+
+[July 28.] They agreed to an address to the people of Ireland, and in it
+furnished them with a true state of the colonial motives and objects,
+the better to enable them to judge of the conduct of the colonists with
+accuracy, and to determine the merits of the controversy with
+impartiality and precision. They then anticipated the golden period,
+when liberty, with all the gentle arts of peace and humanity, should
+establish her mild dominion in the western world, and erect eternal
+monuments to the memory of those virtuous patriots and martyrs, who
+shall have fought and bled, and suffered in her cause. Toward the close
+the language is, “Accept our most greatful acknowledgments for the
+friendly disposition you have always shown toward us.—We know that you
+are not without your grievances—We sympathize with you in your distress,
+and are pleased to find that the design of subjugating us, has persuaded
+administration to dispense to _Ireland_ some vagrant rays of ministerial
+sunshine.—Even the tender mercies of government have long been cruel
+toward you.—In the rich pastures of Ireland, many hungry parricides have
+fed, and grown strong to labour in its destruction.” In the body of it,
+a shaft is elegantly pointed at one of the British generals.—“_America_
+is amazed to find the name of _Howe_ in the catalogue of her
+enemies:—she loved his brother.” The former lord _Howe_ fell by the shot
+of a French Indian, after landing on the left toward the bottom of Lake
+George, and while heading his corps and marching under the command of
+general Abercrombie, to attack Tyconderoga. The Massachusetts assembly,
+to express their affection and strong sense of his worthy character, had
+a monument erected to his memory in Westminster-abby.
+
+[July 29.] The quotas of the several colonies toward the common expence
+was settled, for the present, subject to a future revision and
+correction.
+
+[July 31.] The assemblies of New-Jersey, Pennsylvania and Virginia,
+having referred to the congress the resolution of the house of commons,
+comprehending lord North’s conciliatory plan, they expressed their
+opinion upon it, to the following purpose, viz. “The colonies are
+entitled to the sole and exclusive privilege of giving and granting
+their own money. As they possess a right of appropriating their gifts,
+so are they entitled at all times to inquire into their application.
+This privilege of giving or withholding their monies, is an important
+barrier against the undue exertion of prerogative.
+
+“The proposition contained in the resolution is unreasonable and
+insidious: _unreasonable_, because, if we declare we accede to it, we
+declare without reservation, we will purchase the favor of parliament,
+not knowing at the same time at what price they will please to estimate
+their favor; it is _insidious_, because individual colonies, having bid
+and bidden again, till they find the avidity of the seller too great for
+all their powers to satisfy, are then to return into opposition, divided
+from their sister colonies, whom the minister will have previously
+detached by a grant of easier terms, or by an artful procrastination of
+a definitive answer. The suspension of the exercise of their pretended
+power of taxation being expressly made commensurate with the continuance
+of our gifts, these must be perpetual to make that so. The proposition
+is altogether unsatisfactory, because it imports only a suspension of
+the mode, not a renunciation of the pretended right to tax us; because
+too, it does not propose to repeal the several acts of parliament
+complained of as grievances.
+
+“Upon the whole, this proposition seems to have been held up to the
+world, to deceive it into a belief that there was nothing in dispute
+between us, but the mode of levying taxes; and that the parliament
+having now been so good as to give up this, the colonies are
+unreasonable if not perfectly satisfied: whereas, in truth, our
+adversaries still claim a right of demanding _ad libitum_, and of taxing
+us themselves to the full amount of their demand, if we do not comply
+with it. This leaves us without any thing we can call property.”
+
+Congress had reprobated the conciliatory plan in their address to the
+British inhabitants; but now they discussed it fully, and exposed its
+futility. The next day, August the first, they adjourned to Tuesday the
+fifth of September.
+
+The declaration of congress, their petition to the king, their address
+to the inhabitants of Great-Britain, the other to the people of Ireland,
+and their opinion upon the resolution of the house of commons, must
+evidence to the world, that they have men of the first abilities among
+them, whose writings will vie with the public declarations and acts of
+any powers, on the greatest occasions, in respect to art, address and
+execution.
+
+When you consider the variety of climates, soils, religions, civil
+governments, commercial interests, &c. which were represented in the
+former congress, and the late session of the present; and the various
+occupations, educations and characters of the gentleman who composed
+them; you will judge, that the general harmony and unanimity which
+prevailed in them, is scarcely to be paralleled. At the revolution, such
+mighty questions as, “Whether is the throne vacant or not? Whether shall
+the prince of Orange be king or not?” were determined in the convention
+parliament, by small majorities—the last question by two only. The great
+majorities, the almost unanimity, with which most capital questions have
+been decided in the continental congress, will be considered by numbers
+in no other light than as the happiest omens; or rather as providential
+dispensations in favor of the colonies; as well as the clearest
+demonstrations of their cordial, firm, radical, and indissoluble union.
+
+The adjournment of congress affords the delegates the best means of
+consulting with their constituents, as to what further measures it may
+be necessary to adopt: as also certain individuals who may look forward
+to independency, a much more favorable opportunity of ripening their
+designs by private, personal intercourse with special confidents, than
+can be enjoyed by an epistolary correspondence. By well-timed hints,
+they may scatter those sentimental seeds, which shall at length produce
+events not at present suspected even by the persons attending to such
+hints.
+
+The Georgia delegates did not come on, and join the congress before the
+session was closed.
+
+The inhabitants of South-Carolina were so zealous, and the alarm spread
+by the Lexington engagement so extensive through the colony, that 172
+members met in provincial congress, [June 1.] agreeable to the summons
+issued three and twenty days before by the general committee.
+
+[June 2.] They unanimously resolved, that an association was necessary,
+which was drawn up and signed by their president Henry Laurens, esq. and
+all the members present. In it they declared—“Thoroughly convinced that,
+under our present distressed circumstances, we shall be justified before
+God and man, in resisting force by force, we do unite ourselves under
+every tie of religion and honor, and associate as a band in the defence
+of an injured country against every foe—hereby solemnly engaging, that,
+whenever our continental or provincial councils shall decree it
+necessary, we will go fourth, and be ready to sacrifice our lives and
+fortunes to secure her freedom and safety. This obligation to continue
+in full force until a reconciliation shall take place between
+Great-Britain and America, upon constitutional principles—an event which
+we most heartily desire. And we will hold all those persons inimical to
+the liberty of the colonies who shall refuse to subscribe this
+association.” This was afterward prettly generally subscribed by the
+inhabitants.
+
+[June 5.] It was resolved to raise two regiments of foot, and a regiment
+of rangers; and to put the town and province in a respectable posture of
+defence. The provincial congress were sensible that the expences would
+be great. But it was the language there, as well as in the other
+colonies, among the friends to freedom, “_We will freely give up half,
+or even the whole of our fortunes to secure our liberties_.” Bills of
+credit were struck, which, through the consent and enthusiasm of the
+people, supplied the present emergency.
+
+So great was the military order among the gentlemen, that candidates for
+commissions were four times more than could be employed; and in the
+number were many of the first families and fortunes. The militia
+officers resigned their commissions under the governor, and by their own
+consent were subjected to the orders of the provincial congress.
+
+Thus the popular leaders, in a few weeks, had an army and treasury at
+their command. Thirteen gentlemen were chosen a council of safety.
+
+While this congress was setting, lord William Campbell, governor of the
+province, arrived, and was received with all the demonstrations of joy
+usual on similar occasions.
+
+[June 12.] The congress waited on him with an address, in which they
+disclosed to him the true causes of their present proceedings; and
+declared, that no love of innovation, no desire of altering the
+constitution of government, no lust of independence, had the least
+influence upon their councils; but that they had been impelled to
+associate and take up arms, solely for the preservation, and in defence
+of their lives, liberties and properties. They entreated his excellency
+to make such a representation of the state of the colony, and of their
+true motives, as to assure his majesty, that he had no subjects who more
+sincerely desired to testify their loyalty and affection, or would be
+more willing to devote their lives and fortunes in his real service. His
+lordship returned a very mild and prudent answer.
+
+[June 22.] They adjourned, having first delegated a great part of their
+authority to the council of safety and the general committee; the former
+of which is in the nature of an executive, and the latter of a
+legislative authority. It was particularly recommended to the general
+committee, to take effectual methods to have the association signed
+through the province, and to demand from the non-subscribers the reasons
+of their refusal.
+
+The non-subscribers have been advertised as inimical to the liberties of
+America, and all intercourse between them and the associators
+interdicted. An oath of neutrality has been required of all, to which
+some have agreed; others refusing have been disarmed; and a few, who
+would not enter into any engagements for the public security, have been
+confined to their houses and plantations.
+
+In these kinds of interesting civil broils, matters are generally
+carried to an excess, and policy often tramples upon truth and justice.
+Among the non-subsribers, there may have been several real friends to
+the liberties of America, who could not in conscience subscribe the
+association.
+
+The South-Carolinians, having agreed upon a military opposition, were
+resolved to defend Charlestown to the last extremity; and yet the whole
+quantity of powder in the colony did not exceed three thousand pounds. A
+military opposition, not being originally designed or expected by them
+any more than by the people of the other colonies, there was the like
+inattention as elsewhere, in regard to the providing of stores. Reduced
+now to the alternative of fighting or submitting, they took
+extraordinary methods to obtain a supply. The inhabitants of
+East-Florida, having never joined in measures of opposition to Britain,
+the ports of that province were open for the purposes of trade.
+
+Twelve persons, therefore, authorised by the council of safety, sailed
+from Charlestown for that coast; and by surprise, boarded a vessel near
+the bar of St. Augustine, though twelve British grenadiers, of the 14th
+regiment, were on board. They took out fifteen thousand pounds of
+powder, for which they gave a bill of exchange to the captain; and
+having secured a safe retreat to themselves, steered for Beaufort, and
+from thence by an inland navigation escaped their pursuers, and got safe
+to Charlestown.
+
+North-Carolina was no less spirited than South. The militia were arrayed
+and exercised, and other measures taken to support whatever opposition
+they might be called to make against the British adherents. Governor
+Martin was equally vigorous, though not equally successful. He expected,
+by means of the back settlers, Scotch inhabitants, and Highland
+emigrants, to have made a stand against the patriotic party, and
+therefore took pains to fortify his palace at Newbern; but before it
+could be effected, his attempting to move the palace guns, alarmed the
+committee of the place; who, at the head of a body of armed men,
+interposed, seized and carried off six pieces of artillery, which lay
+behind the palace. This occasioned the governor’s making a precipitate
+flight to Fort Johnson on Cape-Fear river. The people, apprehensive that
+he would strengthen, and prepare it for the reception of a force to be
+employed in reducing the colony, and concluding, that he would encourage
+the slaves to revolt, in case of the failure of all other means to
+maintain the king’s government; collected at Wilmington under colonel
+Ashe, who had resigned his governmental commission, [July 17.] and
+accepted one from popular authority. The colonel designed removing the
+king’s artillery from the fort; but the cannon and stores were secured
+in time, by order of the governor, who retired on board the king’s sloop
+the Cruiser.
+
+[July 18.] Colonel Ashe, in the dead of the night, entered the fort,
+fired it, and reduced the houses and buildings to ashes. The next day he
+compleated the destruction of its wooden defences, to which the fire had
+not extended; and burnt the houses, and desolated every thing in the
+neighborhood of the place, that so they might prove of no benefit to the
+governor.
+
+The Newbern committee apprehending he means to erect the king’s
+standard, and to commence hostilities, have resolved “That no person or
+persons whatsoever have any correspondence with him, on pain of peing
+deemed enemies to the liberties of America, and dealt with accordingly.”
+Persons, throughout the united colonies, dread being advertised for
+_enemies to the liberties of America_.
+
+In treating of Virginia, we must go back to captain Henry’s advancing
+with his volunteers toward Williamsburgh. The alarm it occasioned, put
+lord Dunmore upon converting his palace into a garrison, fortifying it
+in the best manner he could, and surrounding it with artillery. From
+thence he issued a proclamation, charging Mr. Henry and his followers
+with rebellious practices, and attributing the present commotions to
+disaffection in the people, and a desire of changing the established
+form of government; which served only to increase the discontent. On the
+other hand, the Virginians, in their county meetings, applauded Mr.
+Henry’s conduct; and insisted, that they wanted nothing but to preserve
+their ancient constitution, and only opposed innovations. The
+disturbances they charged to the governor’s late conduct. The
+discontents of the people were increased by some procured copies of
+letters from his lordship to the minister of the American department,
+and which were severely censured as containing not only unfavorable, but
+unfair and unjust representations, as well of facts, as of the temper
+and disposition of the colony.
+
+In this state of disorder, on the arrival of dispatches from
+Great-Britain, the house of burgesses was suddenly and unexpectedly
+convened by the governor, [June 1.] The grand motive for it was to
+procure their approbation of lord North’s concilitary plan; accordingly
+in his speech he used the utmost address to carry this point.
+
+The first act however of the house, was the appointment of a committee
+to inquire into the causes of the late disturbances, and particularly to
+examine the state of the magazine, that measures might be taken for its
+replenishment. Means having been contrived by his lordship’s order for
+securing the magazine, and notice having been given of spring guns being
+prepared, some inconsiderate young men attempted to furnish themselves
+with arms out of it, and one of them was wounded. The mode of defending
+the magazine by spring guns, and the unfortunate accident, irritated the
+minds of many, who were joined by others. A great concourse of people,
+from different parts, assembled, and though the house was sitting, broke
+open the magazine, and took away many of the arms. Some of the members,
+hearing what was going forward, repaired to the magazine, and though not
+in time to prevent its being forced open, by remonstrating with all the
+people they met against such proceedings, prevailed with them to return
+the arms. The keys of the magazine were afterwards delivered to the
+committee of the house, by his lordship’s order; who, upon examination,
+found most of the remaining powder buried in the magazine yard, where it
+suffered considerable damage by the rain; the muskets were deprived of
+their locks; and the magazine was naked and insufficient in all
+respects.
+
+[June 7.] An account was brought into Williamsburgh, that captain
+Collins of the Magdalen, had slipped his cables, and was come up the
+river with a number of boats, containing a hundred men at least,
+intended to be marched into the city. Upon this report a number of
+people assembled under arms, that they might defend the city and its
+inhabitants, in case any thing hostile should be attempted. Upon hearing
+what his lordship had said to the council, they retired peaceably and
+quietly, without any disturbance. However, their readiness to assemble
+under arms upon reports, without waiting to know whether they were true
+or false, made such an impression upon the governor’s mind that he with
+his lady and family quitted the place, early in the morning of July 8,
+proceeded to York-town, and went on board the Fowey man of war. He had
+the honor of being the first governor,[129] who thinks it necessary to
+quit his government, and take refuge on board his majesty’s fleet:
+though in his letter of May the first, he held out to ministry his hope,
+that with a supply of arms and ammunition, he should be able to collect
+from among Indians, negroes, and other persons, a sufficient force to
+defend government. He left a message for the house of burgesses,
+acquainting them, that both himself and family were in constant danger
+through the fury of the people; that he hoped they would proceed in the
+business before them; and that he should attend as usual to the duties
+of his office, and was disposed to restore the harmony, which had been
+so unhappily interrupted.
+
+[June 9.] The message produced a joint address from the council and
+house, declaring that they would cheerfully concur in any measure he
+should propose for the security of himself and family; observing how
+impracticable it would be to carry on business at such a distance, and
+intreating his return with his lady and family to the palace, as what
+would also afford great public satisfaction, and be the likeliest means
+of quieting the minds of the people.
+
+[June 10.] His lordship returned a written answer, in which he justified
+his apprehensions of danger, and specified several charges against the
+house of burgesses. It contained many other matters tending to irritate;
+but concluded with mollifying terms, by no means equal, however, to the
+removal of the acrimony excited by the preceding severe charges and
+implications. It soon produced a reply, of an uncommon length, under the
+form of an address. The address comprehended the substance of the report
+of the committee, appointed by the house of burgesses when they first
+met; and was fraught with all the bitterness of recrimination, as well
+as with defensive arguments, and an examination of facts. And yet the
+terms in which it was expressed, were as respectful as possible, and of
+a nature suited to the representative of their sovereign, and to their
+own dignity. When upon his lordship’s letter to the earl of Dartmouth,
+they replied to his assertion, “_not a few did join_ (in what he was
+pleased to call an _opprobrious measure_) _to avoid paying their debts,
+in which many of the principal people here are much involved_.” “We can
+only answer for ourselves in the negative; and must consider so
+indiscriminate a charge as extremely injurious.” It is well known, that
+many not only in Virginia, but in every other colony, were deeply
+indebted to British creditors; and it many be admitted, that several of
+the number became professedly zealous patriots for American liberty,
+with a view either of escaping or of delaying the payment of their just
+debts. However to infer from thence that the great body of popular
+leaders in the present dispute, were or are actuated by such a motive,
+would be highly culpable. All the supporters of a good cause should be
+influenced by principles that are unexceptionable; but the state of
+mankind forbids the expectation of so desirable an event.
+
+The report of the committee asserted, that a general tranquility
+prevailed previous to the affair of the powder, and the governor’s
+declaration about freeing the slaves; that the people had no design or
+wish after an independency of Great-Britain; that they had a most eager
+desire for such a connection as existed before the late acts of
+parliament; and that a redress of grievances would immediately establish
+tranquility, and be productive of a reconciliation with the parent
+state.
+
+[July 14.] The house of burgesses presented their address in answer to
+the governor’s speech; in which they said of lord North’s conciliatory
+motion, “We examined it minutely; we viewed it in every point of light
+in which we were able to place it, and, with pain and disappointment, we
+must ultimately declare, it only changes the form of oppression, without
+lightening its burden.” They close with these expressive words—“We have
+decently remonstrated with parliament; they have added new injuries to
+the old. We have wearied our king with supplications; he has not deigned
+to answer us. We have appealed to the native honor and justice of the
+British nation: their efforts in our favor have beer hitherto
+ineffectual. What then remains to be done? That we commit our injuries
+to the even-handed justice of that Being who doth no wrong; earnestly
+beseeching him to illuminate the councils, and prosper the endeavors of
+those to whom America hath confided her hopes, that, through their wise
+direction, we may again see re-united, the blessings of liberty and
+property, and the most permanent harmony with Great-Britain.” The body
+of the address contains this remark, “Lord Chatham’s bill on the one
+hand, and the terms of the congress on the other, would have formed a
+basis for negociation, which a spirit of accommodation, on both sides,
+might herhaps have reconciled.”
+
+Every day afforded new ground for bickering, and every incident fresh
+room for altercation between the governor and the house of burgesses. At
+length the necessary bills having passed the house, and the advanced
+season requiring the attendance of the members in their several
+counties, the council and burgesses jointly intreated the governor’s
+presence to give his assent to them and finish the session. After
+messages to and fro, his lordship declined meeting them at the capital,
+though they pledged their honor and every thing sacred for his security;
+but he informed them, that he would be ready to receive them at his
+present residence. This answer put an end to all public correspondence
+between the governor and the colony. The burgesses passed resolutions,
+declaring, that the message requiring them to attend him on board a ship
+of war, was a high breach of their rights and privileges; that they had
+reason to fear a dangerous attack might be meditated against the unhappy
+people of the colony; and that it was therefore their opinion, that they
+should prepare for the preservation of their property, and their
+inestimable rights and privileges. They then made strong professions of
+loyalty to the king, and amity to the mother country, and adjourned
+themselves to October.
+
+[July 18.] A convention of delegates was appointed to supply the place
+of the house of burgesses, who, having an unlimited confidence reposed
+in them by the people, became accordingly possessed of an unlimited
+power in all public affairs. They also formed themselves into a
+committee to take into consideration the state of the colony; and the
+next day resolved [July 19.] that a sufficient armed force be
+immediately raised and embodied for its defence and protection.
+
+Nothing more need be said of the Delaware counties, than that they
+remain firm to the cause they have espoused.
+
+[July 26.] The Maryland convention met at Annapolis, and unanimously
+resolved upon an association, to be signed by the members, and by all
+other the freemen of the province. They said, “We do unite as one band,
+and solemnly pledge ourselves to each other, and to America, that we
+will, to the utmost of our power, support the present opposition
+carrying on, as well by arms as by the continental association,
+restraining our commerce.” They also resolved, “That there be forty
+companies of minute-men enrolled as soon as may be; and that every able
+bodied effective freeman within the province, between sixteen and fifty
+(clergymen of all denominations, practising physicians, the household of
+the governor, minute and artillery men, and persons who from their
+religious principles cannot bear arms in any case, excepted) as soon as
+may be, and at furthest before the fifteenth of September, shall enroll
+himself in some company of militia.” They established a council of
+safety, consisting of sixteen persons, who are to regulate the
+operations of the minute-men and militia, and are also, during the
+recess, to do all other matters for securing the province, and for
+providing for its defence.
+
+They ordered committees of observation and of correspondence to be
+chosen; and bills of credit, to the amount of 266,666 dollars, to be
+struck with all convenient speed, for the service of the province.
+
+The Pennsylvania assembly have established a military association
+through the colony, and ordered several battalions to be raised, clothed
+and armed. The whole colony is preparing for a vigorous defence. The
+change in the assembly from a most pacific to a martial complexion, is
+owing to the times. The number of Quakers returned to serve in it, was
+not so large as formerly; and some of them, being upon principle opposed
+to present measures, have resigned their seats, (which they have the
+privilege of doing) and left them to be filled by persons of a different
+judgment.
+
+The Philadelphians, with a view to the safety of the city, are also
+engaged in making huge machines to sink in the narrow part of the
+Delaware, and in completing a number of large galliots, carrying at
+their bows guns from 32 to 48 pounders, swivels, &c. The machines are
+formed of large heavy square pieces of timber. Two long ones, at a
+proper parallel distance from each other, form the horizontal base, that
+is to rest on the bed of the river. Right over these are placed two
+others of similar size, rising from toward the ends of the horizontal
+base, in such an angular direction, as with their elevated ends,
+fortified with strong iron points, to pierce any vessel which may sail
+against them. The degree of elevation is such as to give the greatest
+resistance with the least danger to the timbers. The four main pieces
+are joined to each other by many shorter ones. The whole machine is so
+contrived, that, with its own weight, and what may be added to it when
+sunk, it can neither be broken, nor forced backward, nor turned over.
+They have given the name of chevaux-de-frise to these machines.
+
+There is nothing in New-Jersey which requires particular notice.
+
+The New-Yorkers were freed from the apprehensions they were under,
+through the expectation of troops from Europe, soon after their arrival.
+The second embarkation from Cork, consisting of four regiments, got safe
+to Sandy-Hook, where they received orders from general Gage to sail for
+Boston. They were wanted to strengthen the army, after the loss it had
+sustained by Breed’s Hill battle. The few troops that were stationed at
+the barracks, about fifty, went on board the Asia man of war some time
+before, on the sixth of June, so that the city of New-York was wholly
+without regulars.
+
+[June 24.] Governor Tryon arrived at New-York from London. He is in much
+esteem with a large number of the citizens and others; and if any one
+can succeed in drawing off that colony from the union, he will probably
+be the person. It is not to be thought that he is limited by ministry
+either as to expences or promises; but may suit himself to persons and
+emergencies. There is apparently good policy in employing him to effect
+the recovery of New-York, on the side of administration. He was in hope
+of finding the province disunited from the others.
+
+[July 3.] The mayor, aldermen, and commonalty of the city, presented him
+with a congratulatory address; complimented him upon the rectitude of
+his former administration, and expressed their trust in the aid of his
+intercession with his majesty, for a speedy termination of the hostile
+animosities of his contending subjects.
+
+The governor in his answer confessed his disappointment at the change of
+circumstances in the province. To palliate the treatment which the
+memorial and representation of the New-York general assembly met with,
+and to conciliate the minds of as many as could confide in his
+expressions, he closed with saying, “I am acquainted with a dispatch
+from the earl of Dartmouth, that the memorial and representation of the
+general assembly of this province, were unfortunately blended with
+expressions containing claims which made it impossible for parliament,
+consistent with its justice and dignity to receive them; yet the
+petition to the king has been presented to his majesty, who was pleased
+to receive it with the most gracious expressions of regard and attention
+to the humble requests of his faithful subjects in New-York; and I am
+authorized to say, that nothing can give greater satisfaction to the
+royal breast, than to see us again a happy and united people.”
+
+The same day the address was presented, all the king’s stores of various
+kinds, were taken from Turtle Bay, and carried clear off by the friends
+of congress.
+
+Connecticut and Rhode-Island, having had no occasion to change their
+forms of government, proceed in their usual modes of business, to fulfil
+the engagements that they are under to the united colonies in general,
+and the Massachusetts in particular, and flag not in their ardor to
+support the cause of America.
+
+[June 28.] Let us return to the Massachusetts. Political necessity
+obliged the provincial congress to resolve, “That the notes and bills of
+the colony of Rhode-Island, of this and all the other colonies (except
+Nova-Scotia and Canada) shall be taken and received, and accounted a
+good and sufficient tender for the payment of all debts and damages
+arising upon the non-performance of any promises; and the committees of
+correspondence, inspection, and safety, in the respective towns, are to
+return the names of all persons who shall contravene this resolve.”
+
+[July 9.] To procure a supply of articles for the troops of the colony,
+a resolve passed for the inhabitants of the several towns to furnish
+shirts, breeches, stockings and shoes, for the soldiers.——In a few days
+after a recommendation passed, not to kill any sheep or lambs, excepting
+in cases of absolute necesssity.
+
+In consequence of the letters sent to the several towns and districts
+within the colony, for the choice of representatives, in order to take
+up a form of government, more than two hundred members met at Watertown
+[July 19.] and constituted the house of assembly. The general fast
+interposing, the counsellors were not chosen till Friday morning the
+twenty-first.
+
+[Aug. 8.] The house agreed to raise £.30,000 sterling. The raising of
+money will probably produce much dissatisfaction. Great numbers, who are
+warm for the liberties of America, and violently opposed to being taxed
+by Great-Britain, are so inconsiderate as to imagine, they are to be
+exempted from almost every tax upon their succeeding in the present
+contest. They are for enjoying all the advantage of civilized society,
+without paying their proportion toward the expence of supporting it.
+
+[Aug. 9.] Captain Linzee, of the Falcon sloop of war chaced two
+schooners from the West-Indies, one of which he soon brought to; the
+other, having the advantage of a fair wind, put into Gloucester harbour,
+at Cape-Ann, and the captain pursued into the harbour, bringing the one
+with him. He anchored, and sent two barges with fifteen men each, armed
+with swivels and muskets, attended with a whale boat, in which was the
+lieutenant and six privates, meaning to seize the loaded schooner. The
+militia and inhabitants took the alarm, collected, fired from the shore,
+and killed three men, beside wounding the lieutenant. On this the
+captain sent the other schooner and a small cutter well armed, with
+orders to fire on the damn’d rebels wherever they could see them, while
+he engaged in cannonading the town. Not a ball struck or wounded a
+single person, though they passed through the houses filled with women
+and children, in almost every direction. The party at the water side
+soon made themselves masters of both the schooners, the cutter, the two
+barges, the boat, and every man in them. The action lasted several
+hours. The provincials lost but one man, and had two others wounded; one
+of whom is since dead. They captured thirty-five men belonging to the
+Falcon, several of whom are wounded, and one of them since dead. Captain
+Linzee after this warped off, having lost half his men.
+
+[Aug. 12.] The scarcity of ammunition is so alarming, that the house
+agreed upon recommending it to the inhabitants, not to fire a gun at
+beast, bird, or mark, without real necessity, to prevent a waste of
+powder.
+
+About five weeks since general Gage sent two officers to New-York, to
+procure all the men they could, out of ships expected from Scotland or
+elsewhere, to join him as volunteers; and with orders to return to
+Boston with all expedition. This bespeaks a want of men. The want of
+fresh provision will be supplied for a short space, by the return of a
+fleet of transports this day [Aug. 15.] from the Sound, bringing with
+them about 2000 sheep and 110 oxen, beside eggs, butter, &c. which they
+have taken off from Gardner’s and other islands.
+
+Governor Wentworth still continues in New-Hampshire; but the influence
+of the popular leaders is increasing, while his diminishes daily. He can
+no longer confide, as formerly, in the attachment of the people for
+safety; and has for these two months taken up his residence at Fort
+William and Mary.
+
+The bulk of the colonists have certainly been much encouraged in their
+struggles against the claims of parliament and administration, from the
+multiplied assurances they have received that the body of the people in
+England wish them success; and from their knowing that many of the most
+virtuous and independent of the nobility and gentry are for them; and
+among this order, in their estimation, the best bishop that adorns the
+bench,[130] as great a judge as the nation can boast,[131] and the
+greatest statesman it ever saw.[132]
+
+
+
+
+                               LETTER XV.
+
+
+                                           _Roxbury, December 30, 1775._
+
+The accession of _Georgia_ to the colonies, will occasion their being
+called henceforward THE THIRTEEN UNITED COLONIES. To aid in the defence
+of that colony, congress resolved early in November, to keep up a
+battalion there at the continental expence. Toward the close of the
+year, Dr. Zubly, perceiving that there was an apparent propensity to
+independency in several of the delegates, withdrew and returned to
+Georgia. His opposition to it being well known, and his influence upon
+the Georgia inhabitants being feared, it was contrived that one of his
+brother delegates, Mr. John Houston, should likewise return, with a
+design of counteracting him, in case he soould set himself to oppose
+independency.
+
+The first hostilities which happened in this colony between the opposite
+parties, commenced about the middle of November, when a number of
+royalists attacked the American whigs, and by their superiority obliged
+the latter, after three days, to surrender the fort, in which they
+expected to make an effectual resistance.
+
+The governor of South-Carolina, lord William Campbell, after the
+provincial congress had raised troops, gave commissions to the officers
+of the volunteer companies of militia, that were formed and trained on
+the recommendation of the popular leaders. His lordship also convened an
+assembly, of which several officers in the provincial regiments were
+members; but finding them and their colleagues inflexibly set against
+his schemes, he dissolved them [Sept. 15.] and never afterward issued
+writs for a new election. He was indefatigable in secretly promoting
+opposition to the popular measures, and kept up a constant
+correspondence with the back country royalists. These people were told,
+that it would be impossible to resist the power of Britain; that the
+whole dispute was about a trifling tax on tea; and that the expences of
+the new raised provincial regiments would be infinitely more than the
+insignificant taxes imposed by the British parliament. They were
+therefore much disaffected with the proceedings of the provincial
+congress. It being suspected in Charleston that their disaffection was
+greatly owing to the governor, in order to ascertain, if possible, the
+connection between them, captain Adam M‘Donald, of a new raised
+provincial regiment, introduced himself to his lordship about the middle
+of September, under the feigned name of Dick Williams, a supposed
+confidential messenger from these royalists. In this assumed character
+he had a long conversation with his lordship, and was informed, that a
+letter received the day before, set forth, “That his majesty was
+determined speedily to send out troops to execute his schemes from one
+end of the continent to the other.” The conversation being reported to
+the general committee, they sent a deputation, of which captain M‘Donald
+was one, to demand a communication of his lordship’s late dispatches
+from England, and a perusal of his correspondence with the back country.
+These requisitions being refused, it was moved to take the governor into
+custody, but the motion was rejected by a great majority. His lordship,
+mortified at the deception which had been passed upon him, and
+distrustful of his personal safety in Charleston, took the provincial
+seal with him, and retired on board the Tamar sloop of war.
+
+[Nov. 1.] When the new provincial congress met, it was thought by the
+royalists, that the determinations of the former would have been
+reversed; but they were disappointed.
+
+In order to obstruct the passage of the king’s ships to Charleston
+through Hog-Island channel, a number of hulks were ordered to be sunk,
+and captain Tufts had the charge of covering the workmen, on board a
+schooner, armed for the security of the town, and called the Defence.
+[Nov. 12.] The Tamar and Cherokee warped in the night, within gun-shot
+of him, and began a heavy cannonade; but at sun-rise dropped down to
+their moorings, without having done any material injury. This was the
+commencement of open hostilities in South-Carolina.
+
+[Nov. 13.] The provincial congress impressed the ship Prosper, and
+ordered her to be fitted as a frigate of war. They voted to raise a
+regiment of artillery, [Nov. 14.] to consist of three companies of a
+hundred men each; and that bills of credit, amounting to £.17,000
+sterling should be struck for their support. About the same time a new
+council of safety was appointed, and authorised “to do all such matters
+and things relative to the strengthening and defending the colony, as
+should by them be judged expedient and necessary.”
+
+That you may comprehend the nature of the opposition to popular measures
+in this colony, you must be informed of various events relative to the
+back country. About 1770, the extreme difficulty of bringing criminals
+from remote settlements to a legal condemnation, induced numbers, stiled
+regulators, to take the law into their own hands. They inflicted
+corporal punishment on persons without a regular condemnation. Lord
+Charles Greville Montague, the governor, to correct these abuses,
+advanced one Scovil, a man of low character, to the rank of colonel, and
+employed him to enforce settled law among these regulators. He adopted
+severe measures, which involved multitudes in great distress, who having
+suffered so for opposing regular government, could not be persuaded to
+co-operate with their countrymen in the support of congresses and
+committees, whom they conceived to be similar to their own regulating
+assemblies.
+
+A number of Dutch inhabitants had settled in the same part of the
+country, on lands granted by the government. They brought from Europe
+the monarchical ideas of the holding their possessions at the king’s
+pleasure. They were therefore easily made to believe, that the loss of
+their freeholds would be the consequence of their acceding to American
+measures. After the peace of Paris, lands were offered upon easy terms,
+to induce foreign Protestants to exchange their native country for a
+settlement in South-Carolina. The Irish, who accepted these offers, owed
+all their indulgences to the bounty of the king, and so took part with
+his friends. Their countrymen, who had emigrated from the northern
+provinces, commonly entered with zeal into the new measures.
+
+The violence of some over-zealous friends, who insisted upon their
+neighbors signing the association, produced in several a determined
+spirit of opposition.
+
+At an election for representatives in the first popular assemblies,
+Moses Kirkland was an unsuccessful candidate. In wrath he exclaimed, “If
+this dispute becomes serious, the people of South-Carolina shall feel
+the weight of my influence.” The provincial congress, to gain him, gave
+him the rank of captain in one of the provincial regiments; but he was
+disgusted that his rival was promoted to the higher rank of major. He
+accepted his commission, and inlisted men; but soon resigned, and to the
+utmost encouraged opposition to the measures of congress.
+
+The people in general felt themselves secure in their persons and
+property. It was therefore easy to offer arguments against renouncing
+present comforts, to ward off future evils. It was insinuated to them,
+that the gentlemen on the sea-cost, in order to obtain their tea free
+from tax, were adopting measures which would involve the back country in
+the want of salt, osnaburgs, and imported necessaries. The popular
+leaders could not urge the inhabitants to the dangers and expences of
+war, otherwise than on speculation, to prevent the more alarming
+consequences which would probably take place in future, if the
+proceedings of the British parliament, against Boston and the
+Massachusetts, were suffered to pass into precedent.
+
+Though there were many royalists in most parts of the colony, the
+principal settlement, in which they out-numbered the friends of
+congress, was in the country between the Broad and Saluda rivers. When
+it was determined to raise troops, the inhabitants of that part could
+not be persuaded that the measure was necessary. They were happy, and
+free from present oppression, and averse to believing that any designs,
+inimical to American liberty, had been adopted by the British
+government. The council of safety sent the honorable William Henry
+Drayton, and the reverend William Tennent, to explain to them the nature
+of the dispute. They had several meetings, and much eloquence was
+exerted to induce them to sign the association. Some subscribed; but the
+greater part could not be persuaded that there was any necessity for
+congresses, committees, or military establishments. Suspicions
+prevailed. The friends of the royal government doubted the authenticity
+of all pamphlets and news-papers, which ascribed to the British troops
+in Boston, or to the British government, any designs injurious to the
+rights of the colonists. They viewed the whole as an imposition by
+artful men. The friends of congress suspected the leading men of the
+loyalists to be in the pay of lord William Campbell. Reports were
+circulated by one party, that a plan was laid to seize the commissioners
+sent by the council of safety: by the other, that the third provincial
+regiment was brought up to compel the inhabitants to sign the
+association. Motives and designs were reciprocally attributed to each
+other of the most mischievous tendency. The royalists imbodied for
+reasons similar to those which had induced the other inhabitants to arm
+themselves against Britain. They suspected their adversaries of an
+intention to dragoon them into a compliance with the measures of
+congress; and they in their turn, were suspected of a design to commence
+hostilities against the associators, for disturbing the established
+royal government. Camps were formed in opposition to each other, and
+great pains taken to increase their respective numbers. Moderate men
+employed their good offices; and after some days, the leaders on both
+sides met in conference. Several explications having taken place, a
+treaty was reciprocally agreed to, [Sept. 16.] by which it was
+stipulated, that the royalists should remain in a state of neutrality.
+Both parties retired to their homes, and a temporary calm succeeded.
+
+But Mr. Robert Cunningham, a principal leader among the royalists,
+continued to encourage opposition to popular measures, and declared that
+he did not consider himself as bound by the treaty. This declaration was
+construed as an evidence of a fixed intention again to disturb the
+peace. To prevent his attempting it, he was apprehended, brought to
+Charleston, and committed to jail. His brother Mr. Patrick Cunningham,
+instantly armed a party of friends and pursued, in expectation of
+rescuing him. The party collected on this occasion seized a thousand
+pounds of power, and a quantity of lead, which was passing through their
+settlement, as a present to the Cherokee Indians; and was intended to
+confirm them in their pacific disposition. Some persons among the
+royalists propagated a report, that it was accompanied with instructions
+to them, to kill every man who should refuse to sign the association.
+This answered the purpose of inflaming the minds of several. It was also
+confidently asserted that private marks had been agreed on by the
+popular leaders and Indian chiefs, to distinguish the associators from
+the non-associators; the former of whom were to be spared, and the
+latter sacrificed. Great pains were moreover taken, to exasperate the
+inhabitants against the council of safety, for furnishing the Indians
+with powder, at a time when the white people could not be supplied with
+that article.
+
+Lord William Campbell had uniformly recommended to the royalists to
+remain quiet till the arrival of a British force. This advice had been
+providentially frustrated. Similar reasons of policy to those which
+induced the royal governor to recommend inaction to the royalists,
+operated with the council of safety to crush their intestine foes before
+that force should arrive. The rising occasioned by the seizing of Mr.
+Cunningham, was construed into a violation of the treaty, and gave
+ground to doubt the sincerity of their engagements to continue in a
+state of neutrality. It was feared, that as soon as a proper opportunity
+offered, they would throw their weight into the royal scale. It was
+therefore judged necessary, to march an army into their settlements
+before that event should exist. But to remove prejudices, the provincial
+congress, first of all circulated through their settlements, [Nov. 19.]
+a declaration assigning the reasons for the present to the Cherokees,
+and detesting the invidious misrepresentations that had been put upon
+the measure. They solemnly declared before Almighty God, that they did
+not believe any order was ever issued, or any idea ever entertained by
+the late council of safety, or any member of it, or by any person under
+authority of congress, to cause the Indians to commence hostilities upon
+the frontiers or any part thereof. They then sent forward a large body
+of militia and new raised regulars who were joined by seven hundred
+militia from North-Carolina, and two hundred and twenty regulars. They
+soon had an army of seven thousand men under their direction, with
+instructions “to apprehend the leaders of the party which had seized the
+powder, and to do all other things necessary to suppress the present and
+prevent future insurrections.” Assurances were publicly given, that no
+injury should be done to inoffensive persons, remaining quietly on their
+plantations. The leaders of the royalists found great difficulty in
+persuading their followers to imbody; and they themselves were destitute
+of political knowledge and military experience. The unanimity of the
+whigs and the numbers, which from all sides invaded the settlements of
+the royalists, disheartened them from facing their adversaries in the
+field. The whigs acted by system, and in concert with their brethren of
+neighbouring colonies, and were directed by a council of safety,
+composed of the greatest and wisest men in the province. They easily
+carried every point, seized the leaders of the royalists, and dispersed
+their followers, without the loss of a single man; most of the royalists
+returned to their plantations, while several retired over the mountains.
+
+In _North-Carolina_, the committees of the district of Wilmington
+alledged a number of charges against governor Martin, particularly those
+of fomenting a civil war, and of exciting an insurrection among the
+negroes; upon which they declared him an enemy to America in general,
+and to that province in particular, and forbad all persons holding any
+communication with him.
+
+[Aug. 8.] When their proceedings appeared in print, the governor
+published his remarks upon them, in a proclamation of uncommon length;
+which the provincial congress, in their subsequent meeting at
+Hillsborough, [Aug. 25.] resolved unanimously, to be a false,
+scandalous, scurrilous, malicious and seditious libel, and ordered it to
+be burnt by the hands of the common hangman. Four days before, a plan of
+confederation was laid before them. Upon mature deliberation they
+resolved, that “They are of opinion, that the plan of general
+confederation between the united colonies is not at present eligible;
+and that the present association ought to be further relied on for
+bringing about a reconciliation with the parent state, and a further
+confederacy ought only to be adopted in case of the last extremity.”
+Afterward [Sept. 8.] Mr. Hooper submitted to them an address to the
+inhabitants of the British empire, which was unanimously received. In
+answer to the suggestion, that independence was their object, they say,
+“We again declare, that we invoke that Almighty Being who searches the
+recesses of the human heart, and knows our most secret intentions, that
+it is our most earnest wish and prayer to be restored, with the other
+united colonies, to the state in which we and they were placed before
+the year 1763, disposed to glance over any regulations which Britain had
+made previous to this, and which seems to be injurious and oppressive to
+these colonies, hoping that, at some future day, she will benignly
+interpose, and remove from us every cause of complaint.”
+
+They broke up two days after, having sat three weeks. During the
+session, they agreed upon raising a 1000 men; upon striking a quantity
+of paper money, for the subsistence of the troops; upon inlisting a
+considerable body of minute-men; in a word, upon putting the colony
+immediately into a state of defence.
+
+Within a fortnight after the session closed, the grand repository of the
+governor’s magazine was discovered. In the palace garden, under a bed of
+cabbages, was found a barrel, containing about three bushels of
+gun-powder. In the palace cellar were dug up two quarter casks of the
+same commodity; and in the garden about 1000lb. of musket-balls, about
+500 weight of iron, swivel balls, a large quantity of small shot, lead,
+iron, worms for the cannon, and the whole apparatus for his park of
+artillery.
+
+The Virginia convention continued to establish rules for the defence and
+regulation of the colony; and passed an ordinance for imbodying a
+sufficient force for its protection. It appearing to them, that only 15
+half barrels of powder had been taken out of the magazine by lord
+Dunmore’s order, they valued it fairly, and then directed the surplus
+money received by Patrick Henry, esq. to be returned to the receiver
+general. [August 22.]
+
+Upon a petition of sundry merchants and others, natives of
+Great-Britain, mostly from Scotland, praying to be exempted from bearing
+arms against the people among whom they were born, and promising to
+observe a strict neutrality in case the colony was attacked by the
+British troops, the convention unanimously recommended to the
+committees, [Aug. 25.] and others the good people of the colony, to
+treat all such resident natives as did not show themselves enemies to
+the common cause of America, with lenity and friendship; to protect all
+persons whatsoever in the just enjoyment of their civil rights and
+liberty; to discountenance all national reflections; and to promote
+union, harmony, and mutual good will, among all ranks of people.
+
+Before the session ended, the delegates in a declaration set forth the
+cause of their meeting, and the necessity of immediately putting the
+country into a posture of defence, for the better protection of their
+lives, liberties and properties. In it they solemnly declare, “before
+God and the world, we do bear faith and true allegiance to his majesty;
+and will, so long as it may be in our power, defend him and his
+government, as founded on the laws and well-known principles of the
+constitution: we will, to the utmost of our power, endeavor by every
+honorable mean, to promote a restoration of that friendship and amity,
+which so long and happily subsisted between our fellow subjects in
+Great-Britain, and the inhabitants of America: and as, on the one hand,
+we are determined to defend our lives and properties, and maintain our
+just rights and privileges, at even the extremest hazard, so, on the
+other hand, it is our fixed and unalterable resolution to disband such
+forces as may be raised in this colony, whenever our dangers are
+removed, and America is restored to its former state of tranquility and
+happiness.”
+
+Lord Dunmore, however, being joined by a number who had rendered
+themselves obnoxious to the country, as well as by a parcel of run-away
+negroes, and supported by the naval force upon the station, endeavored
+to establish such a marine, as might enable him, by means of the noble
+rivers with which the colony abounds, to be always at hand, and ready to
+profit by every favorable occasion which should offer. He by degrees
+fitted and armed several vessels, in one of which he constantly resided,
+never setting his foot on shore, but in an hostile manner. The force was
+calculated only for depredations; and while these were confined to the
+procuring of provisions or other necessaries, respect was shown to the
+rank and office of the governor: but being at length changed into open
+and avowed hostility, his lordship met with resistance. The Virginians
+could not brook his seizing persons, and conveying them on board the
+ships; destroying plantations, and carrying off the negroes, and burning
+houses. They therefore sent detachments of the new-raised forces to
+protect the coasts; and from thence ensued a small mischievous war,
+incapable of affording honor or benefit.
+
+During this state of hostility, his lordship procured a few soldiers,
+with whose assistance an attempt was made to burn the port-town of
+Hampton. The inhabitants having a previous suspicion of the design, sunk
+a number of boats across the channel to prevent a landing. The ships,
+having surmounted all obstacles in the night, drew up close to the town,
+[October 27.] and began a furious cannonade in the morning. At this
+critical period, a detachment of riflemen from Williamsburgh, that had
+marched all night, arrived, and being joined by the minute-men and
+others, who had assembled the day before, took such a position as
+enabled them, with their small arms, to compel the enemy precipitately
+to quit their station, with the loss of some men and of a tender.
+
+[Nov. 7.] In consequence of this repulse, the governor issued a
+proclamation, declaring that martial law should take place, and be
+executed through the colony; requiring all persons capable of bearing
+arms, to resort to his majesty’s standard, or to be looked upon as
+traitors; and further declaring all indented servants, negroes or others
+(appertaining to rebels) free, who were able and willing to bear arms,
+upon joining his majesty’s troops. The Virginians highly resented his
+lordship’s declaring martial law; and by his single fiat attempting to
+strip them of their property, and to arm their negroes and servants
+against them to effect their destruction. This measure occasioned to
+government the loss of many friends.
+
+The proclamation, with his lordship’s presence and his marine, produced
+some effect in the town of Norfolk and the adjoining country, where many
+were well effected to the old government. He was accordingly joined by
+some hundreds of blacks and whites; but the pleasure it afforded, was
+soon interrupted by intelligence that a party of Virginians were
+marching toward them with great expedition. To obstruct their designs,
+and protect the well effected, he took possesion of the Great Bridge,
+near Norfolk, a pass of much consequence, being the only way by which
+the town could be approached He constructed a fort on the Norfolk side,
+and rendered it as defencible as time would admit. His force consisted
+of about 200 regulars, including the grenadiers of the 14th regiment,
+and a body of Norfolk volunteers; the rest was a motley mixture of
+blacks and whites. The Virginians, under colonel Woodford, fortified
+themselves within less than cannon shot of the royalists, having a
+narrow causeway in front, which was to be passed to come at their works.
+
+In this state they continued quiet on both sides for some days. At
+length a servant belonging to major Marshall, being properly tutored,
+deserted to the royalists, and told them that colonel Woodford had not
+more than 300 shirtmen (as they called the riflemen, on account of their
+being dressed in their hunting shirts) badly provided with ammunition.
+The bait took, and a design was formed for surprising the Virginians in
+their entrenchments. Captain Leslie, with the regulars, arrived at the
+bridge about three in the morning; and being joined by about 300 white
+and black slaves, laid planks upon the bridge, and crossed just after
+the Virginians had beaten the reveille, a lucky time for the last, as
+their men were of course all under arms. Captain Fordyce, at the head of
+his grenadiers, amounting to about sixty, led the van, while lientenant
+Batut commanded the advanced party. They passed the causeway, which
+admitted only of a few men’s marching abreast, and approached the
+intrenchments with fixed bayonets, and a coolness and intrepidity which
+excited astonishment. They were not only exposed naked to the fire in
+front, but infiladed by another part of the provincial lines. The
+captain fell with several of his men, within a few yards of the breast
+work. The lieutenant with others were taken, and all the survivors of
+the grenadier company, whether prisoners or not, were wounded. The
+royalists were soon obliged to sound a retreat, having sixty-two men
+killed and wounded. The provincials, during the whole action, did not
+lose a single man, and had only one slightly wounded. The fire of the
+artillery from the fort covered the retreat of the royalists. None of
+the blacks, &c. in the rear, with captain Leslie, advanced further than
+the bridge. Captain Fordyce was buried with every military honor by the
+victors, who showed a due respect to his former merit, as well as to the
+gallantry which signalized his last moments. The British prisoners were
+treated with great kindness: the American royalists, who joined the
+king’s standard, with rigor. The king’s forces retired the ensuing
+night, without other loss than a few pieces of cannon. Captain Leslie,
+it is said, has absolutely refused to act any more on shore, till he can
+be better supported; on the other hand, the Norfolk volunteers, and the
+black battalions, have declined acting without the regulars; this has
+induced his lordship to abandon the entrenchments at Norfolk, and to go
+on board the ships. Most of the wretched negroes who had joined him,
+were now left to shift for themselves.
+
+[Dec. 14.] Colonel Woodford, with the provincials, entered Norfolk; but
+almost all the inhabitants had fled on board the ships. At night he
+resigned the command to colonel Howe, designing to return to his family,
+and attend on his private affairs.
+
+Many of the Scotch petitioners having, contrary to their faith, solemnly
+plighted, become strict adherents to lord Dunmore, and active promoters
+of his measures; and having excited their slaves to act against the
+colony, the convention has totally rescinded the former recommendation
+in their favor. But persons of ability, declining to act with the
+Virginians, and who have not taken up arms nor showed themselves against
+them, may be permitted to leave the country.
+
+A scheme for raising a considerable force for the service of lord
+Dunmore, has been lately discovered in Maryland.
+
+One John Connelly, a native of Pennsylvania, waited on his lordship with
+certain proposals, toward the latter end of July, which being approved
+of, he dispatched intelligence to the officers of the militia on the
+frontiers of Augusta county, with assurances from his lordship, that
+such of them as would hereafter evince their loyalty to his majesty, by
+putting themselves under his command, should be amply rewarded. He had
+before, by direction, prepared the Indians on the Ohio, to act in
+concert with him against his majesty’s enemies in that quarter. His
+lordship sent him to general Gage, at Boston, about the 15th of
+September; and about the middle of October he returned with instructions
+from the general to his lordship. A commission of lieutenant-colonel
+commandant of a regiment, to be raised in the back parts and in Canada,
+was to be granted to this adventurer; who was to be assisted by the
+garrisons at Detroit and Fort Gage, at the Illinois, with artillery and
+ammunition. He was to use means to urge the Indian chiefs to act with
+vigor in the execution of his orders; and to have the supreme direction
+of the new forces. When they were in sufficient condition, he was to
+penetrate through Virginia, so as to meet lord Dunmore at a set time in
+next April, at Alexandria, on the Potomak; his lordship was to bring
+such a naval strength and other assistance, as might be deemed necessary
+for the purpose. He had so far succeeded, that he was on his way, with
+two associates, to Detroit; where he was to meet his commission and
+instructions; but when they had reached about five miles beyond
+Hager’s-town, they were taken into custody and brought before the county
+committee, at Frederick-town, in Maryland [Nov. 23.] for examination,
+about ten days after parting with lord Dunmore. Their papers have
+betrayed every thing. Among them were the geneneral plan of the whole
+business, and a letter from lord Dunmore to one of the Indian chiefs,
+and other authentic vouchers, which leave nothing to be doubted. His
+lordship’s letter was accommodated, as is usual in all such cases, to
+the Indian taste, and addressed to _Brother Captain White Eyes_, who was
+to acquaint the _Corn-Stalk_, as well as the chiefs of the Mingoes, and
+the other six nations, with the sentiments contained in it.
+
+The capture of Connelly and his associates, is ascribed to the seizure
+of an express passing between an Indian commissary and the governor;
+from whose papers such intelligence was gained as to put the provincial
+committee upon keeping a good look-out for the parties. The Indian
+commissary was known to be disaffected to the American cause, by a
+gentleman whose suspicions made him a principal in effecting the
+discovery.
+
+The Pennsylvania general assembly, in their November session, instructed
+their delegates to exert their endeavors at the continental congress,
+for the adoption of such measures as might afford the best prospect of
+obtaining a redress of American grievances, and of restoring the union
+and harmony between Great-Britain and the colonies. They said, “Though
+the oppressive measures of the British parliament and administration
+have compelled us to resist their violence by force of arms, yet we
+strictly enjoin you, that you, in behalf of this colony, dissent from,
+and utterly reject any propositions, should such be made, that may cause
+or lead to a separation from the mother country, or a change in the form
+of this government.” The reason for mentioning _a change in the form of
+this government_, was, congress’s recommendation of a measure of that
+kind to the provincial convention of New-Hampshire, which will be
+properly noticed in its place.
+
+[Nov. 16.] Governor Franklin met the general assembly of New-Jersey. In
+his speech he acquainted them, “That the commanders of his majesty’s
+squadrons in America, have orders to proceed as in the case of a town in
+actual rebellion, against such of the sea-port towns and places, being
+accessible to the king’s ships, as shall offer any violence to the
+king’s officers, or in which any troops shall be raised, or military
+works erected, or other than by his majesty’s authority, or any attempts
+made to seize or plunder any public magazine of arms or ammunition.” He
+said “Sentiments of independency, are by some men of present
+consequence, openly avowed, and essays are already appearing in the
+public papers, to redicule the people’s fears of that horrid measure.”
+The house of assembly in their answer declared, [Nov. 29.] “There is
+nothing we desire with greater anxiety, than a reconciliation with our
+parent state, on constitutional principles. We know of no sentiments of
+independency that are by men of any consequence openly avowed; nor do we
+approve of any essays tending to encourage such a measure. We have
+already expressed our detestation of such opinions; and we have so
+frequently and fully declared our sentiments on this subject, that we
+should have thought ourselves, as at present we really deserve to be,
+exempt from all suspicion of this nature.” The governor in his reply
+mentioned, that he had not the most distant thought while speaking of
+the sentiments of independency openly avowed by some that they would
+consider the remark as at all meant for, or applicable to their house.
+He concluded with pointedly saying, “I sincerely wish that both you and
+I may ere long have the happiness to see those who either openly or
+privately avow sentiments of independency, _men of no consequence_.”
+
+The New-York convention having resolved upon the removal of the cannon
+from the battery in the city, captain Sears was appointed to the
+business. Captain Vandeput, of the Asia man of war, was privately
+informed of the design, and prepared to oppose its execution. Learning
+when it was to be attempted, he appointed a boat to watch the motion of
+the people assembled for that purpose about the dead of night. The
+sailors in the boat giving the signal, with a flach of powder, of what
+was going forward, the persons on shore mistook it for an attempt to
+fire a musket at them, and immediately aimed a volley of shot at the
+boat, by which a man was killed. Captain Vandeput soon after commenced a
+firing from the Asia with grape shot, swivel shot, 18 and 24 pounders,
+without killing a single person, and wounded only three, two slightly,
+the other lost the calf of his leg. He then ceased for a considerable
+time, supposing that the people had desisted from their purpose, while
+they were only changing their mode of operation. Captain Sears provided
+a deceiving party, intended to draw the Asia’s fire from the line of the
+working party. He sent the former behind a breast-work, by which they
+were secured on dodging down upon observing the flash of the Asia’s
+guns. When all was in readiness, they huzzaed, and sung out their notes,
+as though tugging in unison, and fired from the walls: while the working
+party silently got off twenty-one eighteen pounders, with carriages,
+empty cartridges, rammers, &c. Upon hearing the noise, and seeing the
+fire of the musketry, the captain ordered the Asia to fire a whole
+broad-side toward that part of the fort, where the deceiving party had
+secured themselves, without intending a particular injury to the city;
+however, some of the shot could not but fly into it and do damage. This
+affair happened at a very late hour, between twelve and two, [August
+22.] and threw the citizens into the utmost consternation. Such was the
+stillness of the night, that the report of the cannon was heard at
+Philadelphia, ninety miles off. The distress of the Yorkers was much
+increased, by a painful apprehension, that captain Vandeput would renew
+the firing upon the city. A removal of men women, children and goods
+commenced and continued till Saturday. Matters were afterward so
+adjusted, as to quiet the apprehensions of the people, in reference to
+their suffering further from the Asia. To prevent it, the convention
+permitted Abraham Lott, esq. to supply all his majesty’s ships stationed
+at New-York, with all necessaries, as well fresh as salted, for the sole
+use of said ships.
+
+The art and influence of governor Tryon alarmed the continental
+congress, some of the members especially, so that it was moved, that he
+should be seized. But Mr. Duane, one of the New-York delegates, speaking
+in behalf of, and answering for him, no resolution to that purpose was
+taken. Mr. Duane saying, in his eagerness to defend the governor, that
+he was as good a friend to the American cause as any one present, called
+up captain John Langdon from New-Hampshire, who resenting the assertion
+as an aspersion on the several members, answered with much acrimony, and
+was permitted to go on as long as he pleased, Mr. Duane’s conduct not
+having answered, in several instances, the warm wishes of the zealous
+delegates. Though nothing was resolved upon against governor Tryon, the
+matter only subsided for the present, under an apprehension that if the
+motion was made, it would not be carried, or when carried, would be
+conveyed to the governor time enough for him to secure himself. The
+affair was brought on again after a while in another form; and congress
+resolved, [October 6.] “That it be recommended to the several provincial
+assemblies or conventions, and councils or committees of safety, to
+arrest and secure every person in their respective colonies, whose going
+at large may in their opinion endanger the safety of the colony, or the
+liberties of America.”
+
+An authentic copy of the resolve was to be transmitted by the delegates,
+to proper persons in the different colonies. The fathers of it aimed at
+governor Tryon; they had little or no expectation that the New-York
+convention would secure him; but they hoped that the sons liberty at
+large would effect the business. It has been asserted, that Mr. Duane
+was uneasy at the resolution, and withdrew from congress for near an
+hour before he returned to his seat. Be that as it may, it is certain
+that Mr. Duane’s footman went off to governor Tryon in season to give
+him information of what was resolved; which occasioned his writing to
+the mayor of New-York [Oct. 13.] acquainting him that he knew from
+_undoubted authority_, what was recommended to the provincial congress,
+and desiring to be informed whether he should be secure in the
+protection of the corporation and citizens. The provincial congress had
+not then received the recommendation. Several letters passed upon the
+occasion, but the governor not obtaining satisfaction as to his being
+secure, went on board the Halifax packet [Oct. 19.] of which he informed
+the mayor by letter; and in that expressed his readiness to do such
+business of the country, as the situation of the times would permit.
+
+A correspondent residing at New-York complains, that the leaders of the
+people in that colony, are inconsistent and perfidious, and that their
+councils are stampt with folly, timidity, and treachery. Some days
+before the governor went on board, members of the provincial convention
+declared, even in the convention, that they would not receive the bills
+of credit to be emitted by themselves; that they would join the king’s
+standard if troops came, in order to save their estates, &c. These
+speeches were uttered without meeting with any censure.
+
+The day the governor sent his letter from on board, Messrs. Low, De
+Lancey, Walton, Kissam, Verplank, &c. &c. labored hard in the provincial
+congress, to preclude the freemen of the city from voting for new
+members, and the mode of voting by ballot. They were for polling, as
+formerly, and expected, that if the freemen were excluded, the
+freeholders would return none but such as would be for preserving the
+city, though at the expence of the liberties of America.
+
+The New-York troops are not to be depended upon in general. Persons who
+have been pretty hearty, are now afraid of falling a sacrifice. The
+defection becomes greater every day in both city and country. This may
+be owing to the arts of governor Tryon, whose exertions may be as
+strenuous and successful in the ship as in the city. He is not at a loss
+how to intrigue with the people of his government.
+
+Such is the importance of securing the North River, that the continental
+congress have given direction for rendering it defensible, by erecting a
+fortification in the High-lands, and garrisoning the same. They have
+also directed Mr. Alexander, titular lord Sterling, to collect the
+troops in and for the defence of New-Jersey [Nov. 27.] (except six
+companies ordered to the forts on the North River) and to place them in
+barracks in the eastern division of the colony, as contiguous to
+New-York as can be, there to remain till further orders. The city
+abounds with persons opposed to congressional measures. This opposition
+was much strengthened by Mr. Rivington’s press, which was carried off
+four days before the above order. Captain Sears observing the
+mischievous effects of this press, determined upon a violent and
+effectual mode of silencing it. He procured seventy-five Connecticut
+horsemen, well armed, with muskets, &c. unexpectedly entered the city at
+the head of them; repaired immediately to Mr. Rivington’s, and seized
+all his types and printing materials, many of which were destroyed.
+While he was thus employed, people collected, and the street was
+thronged. To prevent interruption, he called out and told them, that if
+they attempted to oppose him, he would order his men to fire upon them;
+and preparation was made for doing it, in case it should be needful.
+This appearance instantly cleared the street, when captain Sears and his
+party rode off in triumph, with the booty they were pleased to take
+away.
+
+[Sept. 30.] Captain Wallace, in the Rose man of war, and two tenders,
+began in the morning to fire upon Stonington, in Connecticut, close in
+with the Sound; and continued it the whole day, with very little
+intermission. They killed two men, much shattered the houses, stores,
+&c. and carried off a schooner loaded with molasses, and two small
+sloops. The firing was brought on by a vessel (which he was in chace of)
+escaping and securing itself in the harbour of the town. The men of war
+and transports at Newport, exciting a suspicion by their movements, that
+there was an intention of taking off live stock from the farms in the
+south part of Rhode-Island, a number of persons went down in the evening
+[Oct. 2.] and brought off about 1000 sheep and 50 head of cattle. The
+next day and the following one, the ships took off a quantity from the
+two farms, where it was thought they were collected for the purpose of
+supplying the British troops at Boston. Soon after 300 minute-men
+arrived, who marched to the spot [Oct 5.] and brought off the remaining
+cattle, sheep, hogs and poultry, though fired upon by the ships which
+lay within gun shot. The interposition of the minute-men subjected the
+town to threats of being cannonaded by the men of war; so that many of
+the inhabitants moved their effects, while others left the place. On
+Saturday afternoon [October 7.] the ships weighed anchor, went up the
+river to Bristol, and demanded 300 sheep, which not being complied with,
+between eight and nine o’clock, they began a heavy fire on the town, and
+continued it upward of an hour. The women and children, in great anxiety
+(dark and rainy as it was) were obliged to leave their habitations, and
+seek shelter in the adjacent country. Between nine and ten a committee
+went on board, and purchased peace and the safety of the town at the
+expence of forty sheep. The firing thus upon a defenceless town, greatly
+irritated the minds of the Americans in distant colonies, and they have
+censured it in their public transactions.
+
+[Nov. 11.] The general assembly of _Rhode-Island_ passed an act for the
+capital punishment of persons who should be found guilty of holding a
+traitorous correspondence with the ministry of Great-Britain, or any of
+their officers or agents, or of supplying the ministerial army or navy
+employed against the united colonies, with provisions, arms, &c. or of
+acting as pilots on board any vessels. They however excepted the
+negociation and treaty of the town council with captain Wallace,
+respecting the supplying the ships of war stationed in the harbour of
+Newport, and regulation thereof by the commanding officer, which they
+had before permitted. They also passed an act for sequestring the
+estates of several persons, whom they considered as avowed enemies to
+the liberties of America.
+
+[Nov. 30.] Captain Wallace, about one in the morning, left the harbour
+of Newport, went to Conanicut with several vessels, and landed about 200
+marines, sailors, and negroes, who were employed in burning the houses
+and barns upon the island. The men, while upon the service, were ordered
+to fire on one Mr. Martin, who gave no provocation, and was standing
+unarmed at his own door. He was shot in the belly, and died. He was an
+inoffensive person, and had treated captain Wallace with great civility
+and friendship.
+
+General Lee was at length detached with a small corps, from the army in
+the Massachusetts, to the assistance of the Rhode-Islanders; on whom,
+upon his arrival, he imposed a most tremendous oath. This act of the
+general’s does not meet with the approbation of the congress.
+
+The _Massachusetts_ military and naval transactions will be related
+separate from the civil, as far as convenient.
+
+The American prisoners taken on the 17th of June, were thrown
+indiscriminately into the jail at Boston, without any consideration
+being paid to those of rank, though languishing with wounds and
+sickness. The sick and wounded were put under the hands of a man who had
+never before been employed but in the diseases of horses.[133] The
+inhabitants of the town who befriended the American cause, were not
+allowed to afford the prisoners all that relief they were entitled to
+upon the principles of humanity. The sufferers had even some of their
+books of devotion taken from them, and were reproached for their much
+reading, as leading them into rebellion. Being accounted rebels, no
+cruelty was thought more than they deserved, while their existence was
+not terminated by a halter.
+
+The education and reading of the colonists have undoubtedly contributed
+to encourage and support their opposition to measures deemed destructive
+to the liberties of their country. Every town in the Massachusetts and
+Connecticut, has a public English school for the education of youth,
+supported by an annual tax upon the inhabitants; to which any one may
+send his children, while the expence of their education is nothing more
+than his proportion of the tax. The masters are often young men who have
+finished their college education; and who spend a year or more in this
+employ, till they take to a different one, which often leads to their
+becoming some of the first persons in the colony. The universal
+education promoted by these schools, spreads a general knowledge among
+the lowest orders of people; and gives them a taste for reading the
+interresting publications of the day; while able writers have been and
+are employing their pens in nourishing the spirit of resistance, by
+arguments, historical narrations, and all the various arts of animated
+persuasion.
+
+[Aug, 11.] General Washington wrote to general Gage upon the subject of
+the ill treatment of the prisoners, and apprized him, that he should
+regulate his conduct toward those gentlemen who are or may be in his
+possession, exactly by the rule that the other should observe toward the
+Americans who may be in his custody. [Aug. 13.] General Gage in his
+answer asserted, that the prisoners had hitherto been treated with care
+and kindness, though indiscriminately, as he acknowledged no rank that
+was not derived from the king. He mentioned, “I understand there are of
+the king’s faithful subjects, taken by the rebels, laboring like negro
+slaves to gain their daily subsistence, or reduced to the wretched
+alternative to perish by famine, or take arms against their king and
+country.” He remarked upon the passage relating to retaliation, with an
+appeal to God; and closed with this charge, “unfortunately for both
+countries, those who long since projected the present crisis, and
+influence the councils of America, have views very distant from
+accommodation.” General Gage was mistaken, in charging the party alluded
+to, with _projecting_ the present crisis, which is the casual and
+unexpected consequence of pernicious ministerial councils. He was no
+less far from the truth, while he intimated that the American leaders
+“have views very distant from accommodation.” Some few have such views,
+but the great body of them at present long for an accommodation.
+
+[Aug. 19.] General Washington replied to general Gage, in a pointed
+manner, and told him, “I have taken time, Sir, to make a strict enquiry,
+and find the intelligence you have received, has not the least
+foundation in truth. Not only your officers and soldiers have been
+treated with a tenderness due to fellow citizens and brethren, but even
+those execrable parricides, whose councils and aid have deluged the
+country with blood, have been protected from the fury of a justly
+enraged people. You affect, Sir, to despise all rank, not derived from
+the same source with your own. I cannot conceive one more honorable than
+that which flows from the uncorrupted choice of a brave and free people,
+the purest source and original fountain of all power. May that God to
+whom you appeal, judge between America and you! Under his providence,
+those who influence the councils of America, and all the other
+inhabitants of the united colonies, at the hazard of their lives, are
+determined to hand down to posterity those just and invaluable
+privileges which they received from their ancestors.”
+
+[Aug. 26.] At night about two thousand of the American troops intrenched
+on Plow’d Hill, within point blank shot of the British on Bunker’s Hill:
+notwithstanding a continual fire almost all the day following, they had
+only two killed and two wounded. While the intrenchments were carrying
+on, parties of riflemen were employed in firing upon the advanced guards
+on Charlestown Neck. One of the British officers and several men were
+seen to fall. Two of the British floating batteries attempting to annoy
+the Americans at work upon the hill, were silenced in Mystick river, and
+one partly sunk. More than 300 shells were thrown at the fortress on
+Plow’d Hill, without a single person’s being thereby hurt; and the
+consequent contempt they entertained of shells, induced them to omit
+providing a bomb-proof cover for the garrison. Bunker’s Hill, Plow’d
+Hill and Winter Hill, which last the Americans have possessed and
+fortified for some time, are situated in a range from east to west, each
+of them on or near Mystick river. Plow’d Hill is in the middle, and the
+lowest of the three, the summit is about half a mile from the works on
+Bunker’s Hill. The British finding that their firing did not answer,
+relaxed, and after a while desisted entirely, and the Americans remained
+quiet in their new post. General Washington received, in the beginning
+of September, a very acceptable remittance of ammunition from
+Rhode-Island, even 7000lb. of powder—a great quantity, compared with the
+late amazing scarcity. It is probably a part of what has been brought
+from Africa. The Americans practised a manœuvre, which credits their
+understanding. They sent out a quantity of New-England rum, which was
+exchanged for a fiery commodity of a different quality, so successfully
+as not to leave an ounce for sale in any of the British forts on the
+African coast.
+
+The general having obtained pleasing accounts from Canada, being assured
+that neither Indians nor Canadians could be prevailed upon to act
+against the Americans, and knowing there was a design of penetrating
+into that province by Lake Champlain, concerted the plan of detaching a
+body of troops from head-quarters, through the province of Mein, across
+the country to Quebec. He communicated the same to general Schuyler, who
+approving it, all things were got in readiness. The corps was to be
+commanded by colonel Arnold, aided by colonels Christopher Green and
+Roger Enos, and majors Meigs and Bigelow; and was to consist of ten
+companies of musket men, and three companies of riflemen, amounting to
+eleven hundred.
+
+[Sept. 13.] In the evening the detachment marched from Cambridge for
+Newbury-port, where, six days after, they embarked on board ten
+transports bound to Kennebec, fifty leagues distant. [Sept. 20.] They
+entered the mouth of the Kennebec in the morning, and favored with the
+wind and tide proceeded up to Gardner’s town. It was only fourteen days
+from first giving orders for building 200 batteaux, for collecting
+provisions, and for draughting the 1100 men, to their reaching this
+place. Such was the dispatch!
+
+[Sept. 22.] The troops embarked on board the batteaux, and proceeded to
+Fort Western on the east side of the river. From thence, captain Morgan,
+with three companies of riflemen, was sent forward by water, [Sept. 25.]
+with orders to get on to the great carrying place in the most
+expeditious manner, and to clear the road, while the other divisions
+came up. The second division embarked the next day, and the third the
+day after. As they advanced up the river, the stream grew very rapid,
+and the bottom and shores were rocky. [Sept. 29.] By eleven in the
+morning, major Meigs with the third division, arrived at Fort Halifax,
+standing on a point of land between the rivers Kennebec and Sebasticook.
+In their progress up the river, they met with two carrying-places, over
+which they were obliged to carry their batteaux, baggage, and every
+other article, till they came again a part of the river which was
+navigable, and no longer obstructed by water-falls, rapids, rocks or
+other encumbrances, as was that which they avoided. [October 3.] They
+got to Norridgewalk, where the major’s curiosity was entertained by the
+sight of a child 14 months old, the first white one born in the place.
+After crossing over more carrying places, he and his men encamped at the
+great carrying place, [Oct. 10.] which was twelve miles and a half
+across, including three ponds that they were obliged to pass. These
+ponds had plenty of trout. Two days after colonel Enos arrived at the
+same place with the 4th division of the army consisting of three
+companies of musket men. [Oct. 13.] Colonel Arnold meeting with an
+Indian, wrote to general Schuyler, and inclosed his letter to a friend
+in Quebec. Though he had no knowledge of the Indian, he venturously
+intrusted the packet with him, to be carried and delivered according to
+order. This strange confidence may ruin his expedition, beside involving
+his friend in great trouble. [Oct. 15.] The provision was so reduced,
+that the men were put to allowance, 3–4lb. of pork and 3–4lb. of flour a
+day for each. The next day they reached Dead river. Colonel Enos having
+got up with his division in about three days, was ordered to send back
+the sick, and those that could not be furnished with provision; but,
+contrary to colonel Arnold’s expectation, returned to Cambridge with his
+whole division a few days after. Major Meigs received orders to push on
+with his division, [Oct. 19.] for Chaudiere head, with the greatest
+expedition. But they proceeded very slowly by reason of falls, carrying
+places and bad weather. Their course was only three miles. [Oct. 22.]
+The rains made the river raise the preceding night in some parts eight
+feet perpendicular: and in many places it overflowed its banks, and
+rendered it very difficult for the men on shore to march. The next day
+the stream was so rapid, that, in passing it, five or six batteaux
+filled and overset, by which they lost several barrels of provision, a
+number of guns, clothes, and other articles. Such was the rapidity of
+the stream, and interruptions by carrying places, that it was with much
+fatigue they got on one-and-twenty miles within the three following
+days. To their great satisfaction they reached the carrying place, [Oct.
+27.] which lies across the height of land that runs through the colonies
+to Georgia, and on the further side of which the stream run the reverse
+of the river they had ascended. They crossed the heights to Chaudiere
+river, and continued their march by land to Quebec. [Nov. 1.] The
+marching through the woods was extremely bad. Major Meigs passed a
+number of soldiers who had no provisions, and some of whom were sick. It
+was not in his power to help or relieve them. But one or two dogs were
+killed, which the distressed soldiers eat with a relishing appetite,
+without sparing either feet or skin. A few eat their cartouch-boxes,
+breeches and shoes, being several days without provision. The major and
+his men marched on upon the banks of the Chaudiere, [Nov. 3.] and at
+twelve o’clock met with supplies, to the inexpressible joy of the
+soldiers, who were near starving. Colonel Arnold, with a small party,
+made a forced march, and returned with provisions purchased of the
+inhabitants; on which the hunger-bitten adventurers made a voracious
+meal. [Nov. 4.] The next day at eleven, major Meigs and his men arrived
+at a French house, and were hospitably treated. It was the first house
+he had seen for 31 days, having been all that time in a rough, barren,
+and uninhabited wilderness, where he never saw a human being except
+those belonging to the detachment. He and his party were immediately
+supplied with fresh beef, fowls, butter, pheasants and vegetables, at
+this settlement called Sertigan 25 leagues from Quebec. They were kindly
+entertained while marching down the country. When colonel Arnold got
+within two leagues and a half of Point Levi, [Nov. 8.] he wrote to
+general Montgomery, that as he had received no answer either from
+general Schuyler or his friend, he made no doubt but that the Indian had
+betrayed his trust: and that he was confirmed in it, upon finding that
+the inhabitants of Quebec had been some time apprised of his coming, and
+had destroyed all the canoes at Point Levi to prevent the detachments
+from passing over. The fact was, the Indian, instead of delivering the
+packet as directed, carried it to the lieutenant-governor, who on
+reading the letters, secured Mr. Mercier the merchant, and began
+immediately to put the city in the best state of defence he could;
+whereas before it was wholly defenceless, and might easily have been
+carried by surprise. [Nov. 9.] Colonel Arnold arrived at Point Levi,
+where we leave him to remove, if possble the embarrasments into which
+his own imprudence has brought him, by needlessly trusting an unknown
+Indian with dispatches of the utmost consequence. The detachment
+suffered hardships, beyond what can well be conceived of, in the course
+of the expedition. The men had to haul their batteaux up over falls, up
+rapid streams, over carrying places; and to march through morasses,
+thick woods and over mountains, for about 320 miles. In many places they
+had to pass over the ground and the mountains several times, as without
+it they must have left much of their baggage behind, and have failed in
+the enterprise. They lost all their powder, except what was in
+cartridges and horns, while penetrating through the woods. But what
+proved the greatest trial to them, was the starving condition to which
+they were reduced, when approaching the end of their tedious and
+distressing march. The pork being gone, they had for four days only half
+a pound of flour a day for each man. Their whole store was then divided,
+which yielded about four pints of flour per man—a small allowance for
+men near a hundred miles from any habitation or prospect of supply. It
+was used sparingly; but several when they had baked and eaten their last
+morsel, discovered, to their great confusion, that they had thirty miles
+to travel before they could expect the least mouthful more. But their
+dread of consequences was soon removed, by the unexpected return of
+colonel Arnold with cattle. The soldiers exercised the greatest
+fortitude and patience under the difficulties and sufferings that
+occurred; and when again in the midst of plenty and an easy situation,
+soon lost all painful remembrance of what had happened, and gloried in
+having accomplished, by their indefatigable zeal and industry, an
+undertaking above the common race of men in this debauched age. Let us
+attend to colonel Enos. His return to camp excited both astonishment and
+indignation. [Dec. 1.] A court martial was ordered to sit upon him; when
+it appeared, that he had but three days provisions, and was about one
+hundred miles from the English settlements; that a council of war was
+called, which agreed upon the return of the colonel’s whole division,
+and that he was for going on without, but that it was opposed. It was
+the unanimous opinion of the court, that colonel Enos was under a
+necessity of returning, and he has been acquitted with honor. A number
+of officers of the best character are fully satisfied, and persuaded
+that his conduct deserves applause rather than sensure. Had he not
+returned, his whole division must have been starved.
+
+We must now resume the account of the military transactions in the
+Massachusetts, from the period of colonel Arnold’s leaving the camp.
+
+The Americans, that they might equal in some measure the British, have
+built some floating batteries with a deck, to secure the people on board
+from suffering by musketry. General Washington perceiving that the
+expence of supporting the army will by far exceed any idea formed of it
+in congress, is alarmed at the apprehension of consequences, and most
+earnestly wishes for such a termination of the campaign, as may make the
+army no longer necessary. The want of powder has subsided in part.
+Salt-peter is made in every colony. Powder-mills have been erected at
+Philadelphia and New-York. Non only so, but upward of a hundred barrels
+of powder have been taken out of the magazine at Bermuda, as supposed by
+a sloop from Philadelphia, and a schooner from Carolina. It was easily
+accomplished from the magazine’s being situated far distant from the
+town, without any dwelling-house in the vicinity. Some of the
+inhabitants were probably concerned in the transaction. It might be
+connected with the address to the deputies from the different parishes
+of Bermuda presented to congress in July, and might influence the
+subsequent resolve of congress in November, “That the inhabitants of
+Bermuda appear friendly to the cause of America, and ought to be
+supplied with such a quantity of the produce of these colonies, as may
+be necessary for their subsistence and home consumption.”
+
+[Oct.] The perfidy of Dr. Church has been at length detected, by the
+discovery of a traiterous correspondence with a British officer in
+Boston. He had intrusted a letter in cypher with his kept mistress to be
+forwarded, which being found upon her, she was taking and carried to
+head quarters. The Doctor not being suspected, had an opportunity of
+speaking to her, so that she would not discover the writer, till
+terrified into it by the severest threats. The general was shocked at
+the discovery, and talked with the doctor upon the baseness of his
+conduct. The marks of guilt were apparent. The doctor was confounded,
+and never attempted to vindicate himself. He was immediately secured.
+Since the letter has been decyphered, and the doctor has had opportunity
+of recollecting himself, he has pleaded that his intentions were not
+criminal; admitting his plea, so gross a piece of stupidity in so
+sensible a man is quite a prodigy. But this plea was invalidated, though
+not by the contents of the letter, which served mainly to point out the
+necessity of a speedy accommodation; yet by the marks of guilt he
+discovered in the presence of the general, and in his attempt to conceal
+the writer, instead of declaring at once who he was, what was his
+design, and what he had written. The doctor being a representative, was,
+on the 27th of October, examined at the bar of the house. He endeavored
+to evade the censure of the house, by insisting, that as the affair
+would be before another court where the matter must have a final issue,
+should the house proceed to expel him it would have a fatal effect
+whenever a final judgment was to be given on his conduct. He made the
+most solemn appeal to heaven, that the letter was written with the
+design of procuring some important intelligence. He observed, that there
+was not a single paragraph in it which contained information that could
+hurt the Americans; and that the exaggerated accounts of their force,
+strength and unanimity, tended to dishearten the enemy, and keep them
+quiet, at a time when the Americans were poorly able to have withstood a
+vigorous attack. It is impossible to write all he said; but if the force
+of rhetoric and the powers of language, if the most pathetic arts of
+persuasion, enforced by all the ingenuity, sense, and spirit of the
+doctor, could have made him innocent, he would have appeared spotless as
+an angel of light.—The house however expelled him as guilty; and
+congress afterward resolved, “That he be close confined in some secure
+jail in Connecticut, without the use of pen, ink and paper, and that no
+person be allowed to converse with him, except in the presence and
+hearing of a magistrate or the sheriff of the county.”
+
+The time for which the continental soldiers were engaged to serve, was
+hastening to a close; the evil of a very short inlistment was felt; it
+was therefore unanimously agreed at a council of war, [Oct. 8.] that the
+men to be raised for the future army, should be engaged to the first of
+December 1776, but be discharged sooner if necessary. Hopes still
+remain, that an accommodation may possibly take place.
+
+[October 10.] General Gage sailed for Great-Britain, leaving several
+thousand of the inhabitants of the town in want of bread and every
+necessary of life. Before his departure, he was addressed by his
+majesty’s mandamus council; by a number of gentlemen and principal
+inhabitants of the town; and by such as were driven from their
+habitations in the country to Boston, amounting to no more than
+seventy-six, a small number considering the extent and populousness of
+the colony, and that many of them would not pass for gentlemen in
+Great-Britain. The command of the army devolved of course upon general
+Howe, who issued one proclamation, condemning to military execution,
+such inhabitants as attempt to quit the town without a written licence,
+if detected and taken; if they escape, they are to be proceeded against
+as traitors, and their effects are to be forfeited: and another,
+declaring that if such as are permitted to depart, attempt carrying away
+more than five pounds in specie, to which sum they have been restrained
+for some time past, they shall forfeit the whole sum discovered, beside
+suffering fine and imprisonment.
+
+Congress having intimated to general Washington, that an attack upon
+Boston was much desired, a council of war was called, [October 18.] but
+unanimously agreed that it was not expedient, at least, for the present.
+On the same day captain Mowat destroyed 139 houses, and 278 stores and
+other buildings, the far greatest and best part of the town of Falmouth
+in the northern part of the Massachusetts. The inhabitants, in
+compliance with a resolve of the provincial congress to prevent tories
+carrying out their effects, gave some violent obstruction to the loading
+of a mast ship, which drew upon them the indignation of the admiral.
+Captain Mowat was dispatched in the Canceaux, of sixteen guns, with an
+armed large ship, schooner and sloop. After anchoring toward the evening
+of the seventeenth, within gun-shot, he sent a letter on shore giving
+them two hours for the removal of their families, as he had orders to
+fire the town, they having been guilty of the most unpardonable
+rebellion. A committee of three gentlemen went on board, to learn the
+particular reasons for such orders. He answered, that his orders were to
+set on fire all the sea-ports between Boston and Halifax; but agreed to
+spare the town till nine o’clock the next morning, would they consent to
+send him off eight small arms, which was immediately done. The next
+morning the committee applied afresh; he concluded to spare the town
+till he could hear from the admiral, in case they would send him off
+four carriage guns, deliver up all their arms, ammunition, &c. and four
+gentlemen of the town as hostages. That not being complied with, about
+half past nine he began to fire from the four armed vessels, and
+continued it till after dark. With shells and carcases, and about thirty
+marines whom he landed, he set the town on fire in several places. About
+a hundred of the worst houses escaped destruction, but suffered damage.
+The inhabitants got out a very considerable part of their furniture, and
+had not a person killed or wounded, though the vessels fired into the
+town about three thousand shot, beside bombs and carcases. General Lee
+reprobates their cowardice, in admitting such a paltry party to land
+with impunity, an set their town in flames, when they had at least two
+hundred fighting men, and powder enough for a battle. In the private
+letter wherein he expressed these sentiments, he made no mention of the
+sailors being repulsed, with the loss of a few men; though this might
+happen in the close of the day, and give occasion for its being related
+by others. The burning of Falmouth spread an alarm upon the sea-coast,
+but produced no disposition to submit to the power and mercy of the
+armed British agents. The people in common, chose rather to abandon the
+sea-ports that could not be defended, than quit their country’s cause;
+and therefore removed back with their effects to a safe distance.
+
+The congress, the latter end of September, concluded upon sending a
+committee of three members, to confer with general Washington and the
+governor of Connecticut, the lieutenant-governor of Rhode-Island, the
+council of Massachusetts, and the president of the convention of
+New-Hampshire, and others, touching the most effectual method of
+continuing, supporting, and regulating a continental army. They met and
+agreed on the measures to be pursued. Dr. Franklin being one of the
+committed, the Massachusetts general court embraced that opportunity
+[Oct. 23.] of ordering the treasurer to pay him £.1854 sterling, in full
+for his late services as agent, from October 31, 1770, to March 1, 1775.
+You may recollect that governor Hutchinson always refused signing the
+grants made him by the house of assembly. The doctor might lave liked
+specie at the time such grants were made, better than the present paper
+money; but his foresight will undoubtedly transform the latter into some
+solid substance. He had to pay £.100 of it back into the hands of a
+committee, appointed to wait upon him within a day or two, being the
+amount of a sum sent by several persons from England, for the relief of
+those Americans who were wounded in the battle of Lexington, and of the
+widows and children of those who were then slain.
+
+[October 27.] The old south meeting-house, a large, handsome brick
+building, well fitted up without and within, was taken possession of,
+and destined for a horse riding-school and the service of the light
+dragoons. It is said and believed, that an offer was made of building a
+complete riding-school for less money than it would cost to remove the
+pews and the side galleries (the front remains for the accommodation of
+tea-company and others) and to make a proper flooring for the horse. In
+clearing every thing away, a beautiful carved pew, with silk furniture,
+formerly belonging to a deceased gentleman in high estimation, was taken
+down and carried to Mr. John Amory’s house, by the order of an officer,
+who applied the carved work to the erecting of a hogsty. Had the
+meeting-house and its contents been honored with episcopal consecration,
+these proceedings would be deemed by multitudes, profane and
+sacriligious. But they, who in the present day hold not with the
+holiness of any buildings, will censure the insults offered professors
+of whatever denomination, by needlessly demolishing their places of
+worship, or consigning them to despicable and filthy uses. When Roman
+virtue and patriotism were at their height, the Roman officers would not
+allow the religion or temples of the persons with whom they fought, to
+be insulted and profaned. They were more politic than to exasperate men
+into a ferocious courage for the defence of their altars. But too many
+of the present British officers act as though they owed a spite to all
+the meeting-houses of the presbyterians, by which common name they
+stigmatize those who dissent from the church of England, without
+reflecting that it is no stigma in Scotland, but the reverse.
+
+The southern colonies, in consequence of accounts transmitted to them
+from the camp, begin to entertain prejudices with respect to the troops
+raised in the Massachusetts. They ought to allow for the precipitation
+with which the army was necessarily collected. General Thomas declared
+[Oct. 24.] that the regiments at Roxbury were equal, as to the privates,
+to any with whom he served the last war, and many of them have proved
+themselves brave. The greatest part of the officers are unexperienced,
+and in general unqualified, being strangers to subordination, which was
+not unexpected to the general, as they were chosen by their privates. He
+complained of many of the southern riflemen, that they often deserted to
+the enemy, were mutinous, repugnant to all kind of duty, and so
+exceedingly vicious that the army would be as well without them; but
+spake with satisfaction of their officers. It is a mortifying truth,
+that some of the Massachusetts officers disgrace the colony, by
+practising the meanest arts of peculation. Every subtilty that avarice
+can invent, or rascality carry on, are used to cheat the public, by men
+who procured commissions, not to fight for the liberty of their country,
+but to prey upon its distresses. The army about to be enlisted, will
+undoubtedly be better officered.
+
+Gentlemen, ladies, and others, from neighboring and distant colonies,
+attracted by curiosity, have visited the American troops, and animated
+them by their presence. A number of Indian chiefs have also been down,
+that they might see and judge for themselves, how far the reports
+propagated among them, were true or false. They were treated at
+head-quarters, and by different officers, with much respect. One evening
+they entertained the general and others with a war dance, if that may be
+called an entertainment, wherein the motions and actions of the dancers
+were calculated to alarm and terrify those who were not acquainted with
+such sights. They were pleasant and agreeable company. Two of them had
+their squaws or wives with them; who were well looking women, allowing
+for their dark complexion; one of them was much dejected, having lately
+lost her papoos or child. When the Indians danced in company with the
+American gentlemen and ladies, both men and women kept time with far
+greater exactness than the others. They went off upon their return,
+fully satisfied with the treatment they had received; and it is hoped
+will carry back those accounts which will keep their tribes peaceable.
+
+Many of the Americans have sickened and died of the dysentery, brought
+upon them, in a great measure, through an inattention to cleanliness.
+When at home, their female relations put them upon washing their hands
+and faces, and keeping themselves neat and clean; but being absent from
+such monitors, through an indolent heedless turn of mind, they have
+neglected the means of health, have grown filthy, and poisoned their
+constitutions by nastiness.
+
+[Nov. 2.] The weather set in very cold, and the soldiers were distressed
+for want of wood. The building of barracks had been delayed too long:
+and they were not in sufficient forwardness to admit and accommodate all
+the troops. Several regiments were obliged to keep the field; and some
+in a bleak position on the brow of hills, where it was difficult to drag
+up the wood with which they could be supplied. It is mortifying to
+reflect how these supplies have been reduced by short measure. But many
+persons think it no harm in this way to cheat the united colonies, and
+to deliver a less quantity than they are paid for.
+
+[Nov. 9.] Several companies of the British regulars passed over from
+Charlestown to Phipp’s farm, and kept possession of the ground for near
+an hour before they could be obstructed, owing to a high tide that
+prevented the Americans crossing the causeway, which was overflowed.
+During this period they were employed in shooting cattle with a design
+of carrying them off. At length a battalion of riflemen, under colonel
+Thomson, took to the water, when up to their middles, and a quarter of a
+mile across; at their approach the British hastened to their boats.—The
+Charlestown forts, one in Boston and a frigate, kept up a warm fire upon
+the Americans the whole time, killed them one man and wounded three. The
+British have provided for the security of Charlestown, by the erection
+of a strong citadel on Bunker’s Hill, with convenient barracks for the
+garrison. [Nov. 16.] Such was the distress of the inhabitants in Boston,
+that fences, trees, houses, &c. were taken down and carried off for
+fuel: beef, mutton and pork, were 1s. 1½d. sterling per lb. geese, half
+a guinea a piece, and fowls five shillings. At the scarcest season half
+a guinea was given for a dozen of common eggs.
+
+General Washington, desirous of improving the troops to the utmost ere
+the army was weakened by the return of the Connecticut ones to their own
+colony, resolved upon securing Cobble, or Miller’s Hill, about half a
+mile in a direct line from the enemy’s works on Bunker’s Hill, and at a
+like distance from the shipping at West Boston. About 1000 men broke
+ground on the hill, [Nov. 22.] without having a single cannon fired at
+them. They went on intrenching and planting several 9, 18, and 24
+pounders, till they made themselves secure. General Howe does not seem
+so fond of cannonading as was general Gage. [Oct. 24.] To lessen the
+demand for provision, he ordered a transport ship to carry about 400 of
+the inhabitants out of the town to Point Shirley, to be taken care of by
+the country. Ten days after he sent out 300 more. The persons thus sent
+out were not thought to be wholly free from the small-pox; and it was
+suspected that there might be a design of spreading that disorder among
+the American troops, which induced the Massachusetts assembly to resolve
+upon measures for preventing such an event.
+
+The Massachusetts assembly resolved, October the ninth, to fit out armed
+vessels; which proving a sufficient encouragement for individuals to
+apply themselves to that business, and some being in proper forwardness,
+an act was passed in November for granting letters of marque and
+reprisal, and the establishment of courts of admiralty. The declared
+intention of the act was for the defence of the American coast, and the
+condemnation of those vessels only which should be proved to be the
+property of, or in any wise employed by the enemies of the united
+colonies, or for supplying said enemies. The Lee privateer, captain
+Manly, belonging to Marblehead, was soon at sea, and took the brig
+Nancy, [Nov. 29.] an ordinance ship from Woolwich, containing, beside a
+large brass morter upon a new construction, several pieces of fine brass
+cannon, a large quantity of small arms and ammunition, with all manner
+of tools, utensils and machines, necessary for camps and artillery, in
+the greatest abundance. General Washington, but thirteen days before
+wrote, “I am in very great want of powder, lead, morters, indeed of most
+sorts of military stores.” Had congress sent an order for articles most
+wanted, they could not have made a more satisfactory invoice. The morter
+is now at Cambridge, in the park of artillery, is named _the Congress_,
+and is much admired for its size by every spectator, whether acquainted
+or nor with the uses for which it is designed. About two months before
+this capture, a ship from Bristol with flour for Boston, having parted
+with her convoy, was decoyed into Portsmouth in New-Hampshire, and
+secured for the benefit of the Americans.
+
+[Dec. 8.] Three ships from London, Glasgow, and Liverpool, with various
+stores for the army, and a brig from Antigua with rum, were taken in the
+bay by captain Manly, by whale-boats, &c. A number of men in whale-boats
+can overpower unarmed vessels, and carry them off into secure harbours.
+These and the privateers captured several more store-ships before five
+days were ended. Among the privateers were some continental ones, for
+general Washington fitted out a few armed vessels, which has met with
+the approbation of congress. These repeated and considerable captures
+have increased the distress of the troops and people in Boston, and
+furnished the continental army with many, valuable articles. But though
+the success of the Americans upon the watery element has been matter of
+joy and triumph, their affairs upon land do not answer the wishes of the
+genuine patriots. On the first of the month the enlistment of the
+Connecticut troops expired. They were urged to tarry longer by different
+persons, who harrangued them upon the occasion. A few hundreds were
+prevailed upon to continue; but the main body marched off, leaving the
+army in too week a condition. It is true they had suffered greatly
+through the intenseness of the cold, and the want of fuel, with which
+they ought to have been more faithfully and punctually supplied. The
+Massachusetts and New-Hampshire men complete their term the first of
+January; and the enlistment of the new army goes on very heavily. There
+is a general reluctance among the soldiers to inlisting afresh. The
+Massachusetts people show as much backwardness as the others. In short,
+they expect to be hired, and that at a very high price, to defend their
+own liberties; and choose to be slaves unless they can be bribed to be
+freemen. _Quid facit libertas, cum sola pecunia regnat?_ How must it
+afflict general Washington to observe in the present crisis, so little
+of that patriotic spirit, which he was taught to believe was the
+characteristic of the Massachusetts people; and on which he relied
+greatly for support. While burdened with an apprehension that he might
+possibly be deserted, he could recollect the severity of the season, and
+the distresses of his fellow-creatures at a distance, and wrote to the
+gentleman with whom he had intrusted the management of his concerns at
+Mount-Vernon, “Let the hospitality of the house be kept up with respect
+to the poor. Let no one go hungry away. If any of this kind of people
+should be in want of corn, supply their necessities, provided it does
+not encourage them in idleness. I have no objection to your giving my
+money in charity, when you think it will be well bestowed. I mean, it is
+my desire that it should be done. You are to consider, that neither
+myself or wife are now in the way to do these good offices.”
+
+[Dec. 11.] About 2000 militia arrived in camp, and 3000 more were
+expected every hour, making in the whole the number required by the
+general to supply the deficiency of the continental regiments. The
+American army being by this mean sufficiently strengthened, carried
+their approaches to within half a mile of Boston, and broke ground at
+Lechmere’s Point which brought on a cannonade from the batteries of
+Charlestown and Barton’s Point, that continued for four days, without
+obliging them to desist. Their labor was hard, owing to the ground’s
+being so frozen; but they persevered till they had perfected their
+design.
+
+[Dec. 25.] Some persons have been so curious as to note the number of
+men killed by the firing of the enemy on Cambridge side of the American
+lines, and on the Roxbury, as also, the number and nature of their
+firings. The accounts stands thus “From the burning of Charlestown down
+to this day, the enemy have fired upward of 2000 shot and shells, an
+equal number of 24 pounders with any other sort. They threw more than
+300 bumbs at Plowed Hill, and 100 at Lechmere’s Point. By the whole
+firing on Cambridge side, they killed only seven, and on Roxbury side
+five, just a dozen.”
+
+Let me now give you the following anecdote. Deacon Whitcomb of
+Lancaster, (who was a member of the Massachusetts assembly till the
+present contest, had served in former wars, and been in different
+engagements) has served as a colonel in the American army; but on
+account of his age was left out upon the late new regulation. His men
+highly resented it, and declared they would not inlist again, after
+their time was out. The colonel told them, he did not doubt there were
+sufficient reasons for the regulation, and he was satisfied with it; he
+then blamed them for their conduct, and said he would inlist as a
+private. A colonel Brewer heard of it, and offered to resign in favor of
+colonel Whitcomb. The whole coming to general Washington’s ears, he has
+allowed of colonel Brewer’s resignation in colonel Whitcomb’s favor,
+appointed the former barrack-master, till he can further promote him,
+and acquainted the army with the whole affars in general orders. This
+terminates the narrative of the military and naval transactions within
+the Massachusetts; little remain to be mentioned of the civil. The great
+call there was for salt-petre, put the house of assembly upon resolving
+[Oct. 30.] to pay a bounty of three shillings sterling in paper currency
+per lb. for all that shall be manufactured before the first of next
+June, beside two shillings and three-pence per lb. purchase money. The
+assembly was far from giving satisfaction to general Lee, who about the
+middle of November, pronounced them benumbed in a fixed state of
+torpitude, without the symptoms of animation, unless an apprehension of
+rendering themselves unpopular among their particular constituents, by
+any act of vigor for the public service, deserved the name of animation.
+He charged them with inconsistent and timid conduct; and ascribed it to
+their torpor, narrow politics, or call it what you will, that the army
+had been reduced to very great distress. There was however, about the
+beginning of December, an act passed for emitting bills of credit to the
+amount of more than £.50,000 sterling, with a pretty device on the back,
+viz. an American with a sword in his right hand, with the following
+inscription suspended therefrom, “_Ense petit placidam sub libertate
+quietem_;” and from his left hand “_Magna Charta_;” and round the figure
+these words, “_Issued in defence of American liberty_.” The assembly
+also gave orders relating to wood [Dec. 26.] that so the great
+distresses of the army on that head might be removed.
+
+_New-Hampshire_ colony has presented us with a novelty, which the
+polititians will apply to the purpose of promoting independency. By some
+dextrous, or rather sinister management, instructions were delivered to
+the New-Hampshire delegates at the continental congress containing these
+expressions, “we would have you immediately use your utmost endeavours
+to obtain the advice and direction of the congress, with respect to a
+method for our administering justice and regulating our civil police. We
+press you not to delay this matter, as its being done speedily will
+probably prevent the greatest confusion among us.” They were laid before
+congress Oct. the eighteenth, and proved a fine opening for those
+individual delegates, who were looking forward to a separation from
+Great-Britain, to introduce an entering wedge wherewith to divide the
+empire. Even these very instructions might be designedly obtained by
+confidential letters written to trusty deputies in the New-Hampshire
+convention, by certain delegates in the general congress. The first step
+to be taken by such was, to procure, in some one colony, the
+establishment of a new form of government, in which the people at large
+should have a leading influence, that so their attachments and efforts
+might be secured in support of the same. The inhabitants of adjoining
+colonies would soon be eager to enjoy the like power and importance,
+which would pave the way for their insisting also upon a change. These
+changes being once effected, the parties will then have gone too far to
+retreat, and must seek their security in independence. The scheme met
+with opposition, and the New-Hampshire delegates used unwearied
+importunity, both within doors and without, before they obtained the
+recommendation they were after. At length the report of the committee
+was taken into consideration, and it was resolved by congress, [Nov. 3.]
+“That it be recommended to the provincial convention of New-Hampshire,
+to call a full and free representation of the people, and that the said
+representatives, if they think it necessary, establish such a form of
+government, as in their judgment will best produce the happiness of the
+people, and most effectually secure the peace and good order in the
+province, during the continuance of the present dispute between
+Great-Britain and the colonies. The vote was far from being unanimous;
+and, in order to make it pass, was qualified with a seeming desire of an
+accommodation with Britain, and of restoration by that mean to the old
+form of government. The provincial convention, without waiting for the
+arrival of the recommendation, appointed a committee to report a mode of
+representation, which being laid before them, [Nov. 14.] they agreed,
+that precepts be sent to elect persons to represent the towns, &c. in
+congress, to meet at Exeter on the twenty-first of December, and to be
+empowered to prosecute such measures as they may deem necessary for the
+public good, during the term of one year, unless they see fit to disolve
+themselves sooner. And in case there should be a recommendation from the
+continental congress for this colony to assume a government, in a way
+that will require a house of representatives, that the said congress of
+this colony be empowered to resolve themselves into such a house as may
+be recommended, and remain such for the aforesaid term of one year.” The
+provincial congress met agreeable to the receipts, and after a while
+voted, “That congress will at any time take up civil government, to
+continue during the present contest with Great-Britain; and resolve
+themselves into a house of representatives, and then choose a council to
+continue one year from the twenty-first of December.”
+
+The continental congress having dispatched the New-Hampshire case,
+immediately took into consideration the state of _South-Carolina_ and
+appointed a committee to consider a number of papers relative thereto,
+and to report what in their opinion was necessary to be done. What this
+opinion would be was easily foreseen, from Messrs. Chase and Samuel
+Adams being of the committee. The report was brought in the next day,
+[Nov. 4.] and it was resolved, “That for the defence of South-Carolina,
+there be kept up in that colony, at the continental expences, three
+battalions of foot: That if the convention, or council of safety shall
+think it expedient, for the security of the colony, to seize or destroy
+any ship or vessel of war, this congress will approve of such
+proceeding:—That Charleston ought to be defended against any attempts to
+take possession thereof by the enemies of America; and that the
+convention or council of safety ought to proceed immediately to erect
+such fortifications and batteries as will best conduce to its
+security;—That if the convention of South-Carolina shall find it
+necessary to establish a form of government in that colony, it be
+recommended to that convention to call a full and free representation of
+the people, &c. &c.” as to the convention of New-Hampshire.
+
+The measures pursued by lord Dunmore naturally led congress to resolve,
+[Nov. 10.] “That a committee be appointed to inquire into the state of
+the colony of _Virginia_, to consider what provisions may be necessary
+for its defence, and to report the same.” Mr. Samuel Adams was of the
+number. New information being received before they reported, when they
+did it, it was in such a way that congress resolved [Dec. 4.] “That
+three companies of the Pennsylvania battalion immediately march into
+Northampton county, in Virginia, for the protection of the
+association—That it be recommended to the inhabitants to resist to the
+utmost, the arbitrary government intended to be established therein.”
+They then said, “Whereas lord Dunmore by his proclamation, has declared
+his intention to execute martial law, thereby tearing up the foundations
+of civil authority and government within the colony; resolved,
+therefore, that if the convention of Virginia, &c. &c.” as to the
+conventions of New-Hampshire and South-Carolina.
+
+A growing change in the sentiments of congress, would of course follow
+upon the dispatches received the day before the committee on the state
+of Virginia was appointed. Their agents informed them, that the American
+minister told them, some days after the delivery of the petition by the
+late governor Penn, _No answer will be given to it_; and that no one
+person in authority had, since the arrival of that gentleman, deigned to
+propose a single question to him, or to desire the smallest information
+from him. This cavalier treatment of a petition containing professions
+of the greatest loyalty to the king, and attachment to the mother
+country, and couched in terms the most moderate and humble; and of the
+person who was intrusted with it; left no reasonable ground for hoping
+that the present dispute could be amicably adjusted.
+
+Having been led by the New-Hampshire instructions, to mention some of
+the doings of congress, let me proceed to relate some others which have
+been unnoticed.
+
+Congress resolved, that the new army intended to lie before Boston [Nov.
+4.] consist of 20,372 men, officers included. Beside, it has been
+recommended to particular colonies to raise battalions at the expence of
+the continent. Orders have also been given for fitting out four armed
+vessels, for the intercepting of such transports as may be laden with
+warlike stores and other supplies for the enemy; and for the protection
+and defence of the united colonies. [Nov. 9.] It was agreed, “That every
+member consider himself under the ties of virtue, honor, and love of his
+country, not to divulge, directly or indirectly, any matter or thing
+agitated or debated in congress, before the same shall have been
+determined, without the leave of congress; or any other matter or thing
+determined in congress, which the majority of congress shall order to be
+kept secret; and that if any member shall violate this agreement, he
+shall be expelled this congress, and be deemed an enemy to the liberties
+of America, and liable to be treated as such; and that every member
+signify his consent to this agreement by signing the same.” [Nov. 10.]
+They resolved upon raising two battalions of marines, to be considered
+as part of the number of which the continental army before Boston is to
+consist.
+
+[Nov. 28.] A committee appointed to take into consideration the state of
+_North-Carolina_, made their report, whereupon it was resolved, among
+other matters, that two ministers of the gospel be applied to, to go
+immediately among the regulators and highlanders of that colony, for the
+purpose of informing them of the nature of the present dispute between
+Great-Britain and the colonies. Instead of a similar recommendation to
+what was given to South-Carolina about establishing a form of
+government, it was only recommended to the convention or committee of
+safety, in case the method of defending the colony by minute-men, be
+inadequate to the purpose, to substitute such other mode as to them
+should appear most likely to effect the security of the colony.
+
+[Nov. 29.] Congress resolved, that a committee of five be appointed for
+the sole purpose of corresponding with their friends in Great-Britain,
+Ireland, and other parts of the world. Information being given, that
+there is a large quantity of powder in the island of Providence, the
+secret committee were ordered to take measures for securing and bringing
+away the said powder. To prevent any petition to the king from a
+particular colony, they declared [Dec. 4.] that in the present situation
+of affairs, it would be very dangerous to the liberties and welfare of
+America, if any colony should separately petition the king, or either
+house of parliament. This declaration is thought to be owing to an
+apprehension that the New-Jersey assembly would be drawn in, by the art
+and persuasion of governor Franklin and his adherents, to adopt such a
+measure. Congress were certainly alarmed at some disagreeable
+appearances, for they appointed a committee to confer with that assembly
+immediately after the declaration. [Dec. 6.] They agreed to the report
+of the committee on proclamations. It contained many severe remarks upon
+the royal proclamation of August, for suppressing rebellion and
+sedition; together with many pointed questions, designed to sink it into
+equal contempt with what it experienced at the Royal Exchange, where we
+have heard it was read by one of the lord mayor’s officers, accompanied
+only by the common crier, without horse or mace to grace the ceremony,
+and when finished, saluted with a general hiss. Toward the close, the
+report holds forth the following threat; “we, in the name of the people
+of these united colonies, and by authority, according to the purest
+maxims of representation, derived from them, declare, that whatever
+punishment shall be inflicted upon any persons in the power of our
+enemies, for favoring, aiding, or abetting the cause of American
+liberty, shall be retaliated in the same kind and the same degree, upon
+those in our power, who have favored, aided, or abetted, or shall favor,
+aid, or abet the system of ministerial oppression.”
+
+[Dec. 13.] Congress determined upon building five ships of 32 guns, five
+of 28, and three of 24, in all 13; one in New-Hampshire, two in
+Massachusetts, one in Connecticut, two in Rhode-Island, two in New-York,
+four in Pennsylvania, and one in Maryland. [Dec. 20.] They, having taken
+into consideration the dispute between the people of Pennsylvania and
+Connecticut, on the lands near Wyoming, on the Susquehannah river,
+recommended, that “the contending parties immediately cease all
+hostilities; that all persons seized and detained on account of said
+dispute, on either side, be dismissed and permitted to go to their
+respective homes; and that, things being put in the same situation they
+were before the late unhappy contest, they continue to behave themselves
+peaceably, until a legal decision can be had on said dispute, or
+congress shall take further order thereon.” The committee appointed to
+fit out armed vessels, having procured a few, laid before congress [Dec.
+22.] a list of the officers by them appointed; and were directed to give
+such instructions to the commander of the fleet, Ezekiel Hopkins, esq.
+touching the operations of the ships under his command, as should appear
+to them most conducive to the defence of the united colonies, and to the
+distress of the enemy’s naval forces and vessels.
+
+In Canada, Sir Guy Carleton was no sooner acquainted with the Americans
+having surprised Tyconderoga and Crown-Point, and obtained the command
+of Lake Champlain, than he planned a scheme for their recovery. The
+British troops he had with him were too few to admit of their being
+drawn out of garrison. He expected a supply of Canadians sufficient for
+his purpose, and to have the assistance of the Indians in his intended
+operations; but both failed him. He established martial law in the
+province, that he might be able in that way authoritatively to force the
+people to take arms, but they refused. They had tasted the sweets of the
+English mode of government since the conquest of the country; and were
+disgusted (the noblesse excepted) at the re-establishment of the French.
+The Quebec act was of no use in exciting them against the colonists; on
+the contrary they talked much of liberty.[134] They declared themselves
+ready to defend the province, but absolutely refused to march out of it,
+and commence hostilities upon their neighbors. The governor applied to
+the bishop of Quebec to use his spiritual influence, particularly to
+issue an episcopal mandate, to be read by the parish priests in the time
+of divine service, but the bishop excused himself. The ecclesiastics, in
+the place of this, issued their letters, which were however greatly
+disregarded. The noblesse alone, who were chiefly considered in the
+Quebec act, showed a zeal against the English colonists.
+
+Colonel Johnson, a son of the late Sir William Johnson, had repeated
+conferences with the Indians; at the one in Montreal, he delivered to
+each of the Canadian tribes a war-belt and the hatchet; after which he
+invited them to feast on a Bostonian, and to drink his blood,
+figuratively, an ox being roasted for the purpose, and a pipe of wine
+given; but the entertainment could not prevail with them to take up the
+hatchet. The congress, being made acquainted with the disposition of the
+Canadians, and the designs of governor Carleton, and expecting a
+powerful opposition from that quarter when European troops were arrived,
+unless they could prevent it by securing the country, determined upon
+penetrating into Canada, in hope of gaining the speedy possession of it,
+and of joining it to the union. The more effectually to support the
+reasonableness of the measure, and to strengthen the operation, it was
+given out, that the powers with which governor Carleton was entrusted by
+his commission, were special and extraordinary, _purposely_ designed to
+warrant his attempting by force to suppress the opposition making in the
+colonies to the British measures. Several, or even most of the members
+of congress could not but know, that the words of the commission for
+governing their own colonies, name and place excepted. Sir Guy’s
+commission was in the usual mode, and similar to what was given to
+Danvers Osborne, esq. governor of New-York.[135]
+
+General Montgomery was sent forward to Tyconderoga with a body of
+troops, New-Yorkers and New-Englanders. When he took leave of his lady,
+his parting words were, “You shall never blush for your Montgomery.”
+[Aug. 21.] He arrived with the continental army (if not too diminutive
+to be so called) at the place of destination. General Schuyler, who was
+the chief commander, remained at Albany, to attend the Indian treaty
+carrying on in that city. General Montgomery made a movement down Lake
+Champlain, without waiting the arrival of more troops, that so he might
+hinder the enemy’s armed vessels getting into the lake. [Sept. 4. 5.]
+Schuyler having pushed forward, notwithstanding great indisposition, and
+joined Montgomery at Isle la Motte, they moved on, and arrived at Isle
+aux Noix. Here he drew up a declaration, which he sent among the
+Canadians by colonel Allen and major Brown, assuring them, that the army
+was designed only against the English garrisons, and not the country,
+their liberties or religion. [Sept. 6.] The army, not exceeding a
+thousand men, proceeded without any obstruction toward St. John’s. When
+in sight of the works, and about two miles distant, the enemy began to
+fire, without doing any damage. After advancing half a mile nearer, the
+troops landed without opposition, in a close deep swamp; and being
+formed, marched through grounds marshy and covered with woods, in order
+to reconnoitre the fortresses. The left was attacked in crossing a
+creek, by a party of Indians, who killed a sergeant, corporal, and three
+privates, beside wounding eight, three of whom died. Three officers also
+were wounded. The Indians were soon compelled to give way, and had five
+killed and four badly wounded. Gen. Schuyler receiving certain
+intelligence in the evening, that the enemy’s fortifications were
+complete, and plentifully furnished with cannon, it was thought
+advisable the next morning, to return to Isle aux Noix, which was
+accordingly done; and the troops were employed in erecting proper works
+to secure the entrance into the lake; and in getting ready, on the
+arrival of further reinforcements, to take advantage of any events that
+might happen in Canada. Schuyler returned, leaving the command to
+Montgomery; who, being strengthened by an addition of men and artillery,
+and receiving orders to undertake the siege of St. John’s, [Sept. 17.]
+proceeded to execute the same. The next day the enemy threw bombs, but
+did no damage. The Americans returned the salute. [Sept. 21.] The lines
+of circumvallation were finished; but between 20 and 30 waggons with
+provisions, rum, brandy, &c. for the garrison, were taken prior to it.
+Afterwards there was a continual firing for some days and nights; and
+could the general have depended upon the troops, he might have ventured
+to promise success, but he could say nothing pleasing on that head. The
+men took good care of themselves; and one night captain Mott, of the 1st
+regiment of Yorkers, basely deserted the mortar battery without ever
+being attacked.
+
+Colonel Allen being upon his return, with a guard of about eighty men,
+from a tour upon which he had been sent by the general, was desired to
+halt by major Brown, who proposed that colonel Allen should return to
+Longuil, procure canoes and cross the river St. Lawrence a little north
+of Montreal; while he crossed a little to the south of the town with
+near 200 men, as he had boats sufficient. The plan was approved of, and
+colonel Allen crossed in the night. Major Brown by some means failed on
+his part; and colonel Allen found himself, the next morning, in a
+critical situation; but concluded upon maintaining his grounds. [Sept.
+25.] General Carleton learning how weak colonel Allen was, marched out
+against him with about forty regulars, together with Canadians, English
+and Indians, amounting to some hundreds. The colonel defended himself
+with much bravery; but being deserted by several, chiefly Canadians, and
+having had fifteen of his men killed, was under the necessity of
+surrendering with thirty-one effectives and seven wounded. He was
+directly put into irons. Had the plan been executed according to major
+Brown’s proposal, Montreal would probably have been surprised and taken.
+Success would have prevented the censures, which are now passed upon the
+one for proposing, and the other for adopting a plan of operation to
+which the general was an entire stranger. [Oct. 4.] A party of
+Canadians, who had joined and greatly assisted the besiegers, intrenched
+themselves on the east side of the lake, on which the enemy sent an
+armed sloop with troops to drive them away; but the Canadians attacked
+the sloop with vigor, killed a number of the men, and obliged her to
+return to St. Johns in a shattered condition. The main body of the army
+decamped from the south, [Oct. 7.] and marched to the north side of the
+fort: and in the evening began to throw up a breast work, in order to
+erect a battery of cannon and mortars. The continental troops brought
+such a spirit of liberty into the field, and thought so freely for
+themselves, that they would not bear either subordination or discipline.
+The general could not in truth direct their operations, and would not
+have stayed an hour at their head, had he not feared that the example
+would be too generally followed and so the public service suffer. There
+was a great want of powder, which with the disorderly behavior of the
+troops was a damp to the hope of terminating the siege successfully.
+
+[Oct. 18.] The prospect was much brightened. The Canadians planned an
+attack upon Chamblee, and carried down in batteaux the artillery, past
+the fort of St. John’s. After a short demur it surrendered to major
+Brown and major Livingston.—The greatest acquisition was about six tons
+of powder, which enabled the general to accomplish his wishes. The other
+particulars you have below,[136] except the colours of the 7th regiment,
+which were immediately transmitted to congress—the first present of the
+kind they ever received. The garrison became prisoners of war, but were
+allowed all their baggage, the quantity of which was astonishing. Their
+women and children, whose number was equally astonishing, were permitted
+to go with them and to take their effects. The besiegers having obtained
+a full supply of ammunition, went to work in earnest, compleated a
+battery within 250 yards of the fort, and mounted in it [Oct. 30.] four
+guns and six mortars, in defiance of the continual fire of the enemy.
+While the army was busily engaged in preparing for a cannonade, and an
+assault if necessary, they received the agreeable news of governor
+Carleton’s being repulsed. [Oct. 31.] The governor, with a view of
+raising the siege, collected a body of about 800 forces, consisting of
+the militia of Montreal, a number of Canadians, whom he had maintained
+for some time, a few troops, not a hundred, and some Indians. They left
+Montreal in high spirits, and attempted to cross the river St. Lawrence
+and land at Longeuil; but colonel Warner, with 300 Green Mountain boys,
+and a four pounder which kept pouring grape-shot into the boats,
+prevented their making good a landing. They were suffered to come very
+near the shore, and then the fire was so hot and distructive, that they
+were thrown into great confusion, and retired with the utmost
+precipitation. [Nov. 1.] The batteries kept an incessant fire all day on
+the garrison of St. John, which returned a very brisk one.—In the
+evening general Montgomery sent a flag, with a letter to major Preston,
+the commander, by one of the prisoners taken by colonel Warner,
+informing him of governor Carleton’s defeat, and recommending to him the
+surrender of the fort, as he could now have no longer reason to expect
+relief from that quarter. Major Preston in return sent an officer to the
+camp, proposing to answer the letter fully in the morning, and that in
+the mean time hostilities should cease on both sides. Two officers came
+into the camp [Nov. 2.] with an answer from major Preston, who requested
+the general to wait four days, to see whether no relief would come in
+that time, if not, they would make proposals for a surrender. The
+advanced season of the year did not allow of the general’s complying. He
+required them immediately to surrender prisoners of war; but referred
+them for the truth of the governor’s defeat to another prisoner. It was
+at length agreed that the garrison should march out with the honors of
+war, as what was due to their fortitude and perseverance. The
+non-commissioned officers and privates were to ground their arms on the
+plain; the officers were to keep their side arms, and their fire arms
+were to be reserved for them. The effects of the garrison were not to be
+withheld from them. The Canadian gentlemen and others, at St. John’s,
+were considered as part of the garrison, which amounted to about 500
+regulars, and better than 100 Canadian volunteers. The next morning they
+marched out [Nov. 31.] and the continental troops took possession of the
+fort, in which were 17 brass ordnance, from 2 to 24 pounders, 2 eight
+inch howitzers, seven mortars, and 22 iron ordnance, from 3 to 9
+pounders, a considerable quantity of shot and small shells, and about
+800 stand of small arms, beside a small quantity of naval stores. The
+ammunition and provision was trifling, these having been nearly
+expended.
+
+General Montgomery pressed on to Montreal. It being capable of making no
+defence, governor Carleton quitted it in one day; the general entered it
+the next [Nov. 12.] He treated the inhabitants with becoming liberality,
+engaging upon his honor to maintain the individuals and religious
+communities of the city in the peaceable enjoyment of their property of
+every kind; and the inhabitants, whether English, French, or others, in
+the free exercise of their religion. The general, in all his
+transactions, wrote, spake, and behaved with that attention, regard, and
+politeness to both privates and officers, soldiers and citizens, which
+might be expected from the gentleman. He was careful to push forward in
+time, a number of continental troops under colonel Easton, to the point
+of Sorel River, which they guarded so with cannon, an armed gondola, and
+their fire arms, that the fleet which had fallen down below Montreal,
+would not venture to attempt passing it. General Prescot, who was on
+board, with about 120 privates and several officers, was reduced to the
+necessity of surrendering by capitulation. [Nov. 17] 11 sail of vessels,
+with all their contents, consisting of, beside sailors and soldiers, 760
+barrels of flour, 675 ditto of beef, 376 firkins of butter, 3 barrels of
+powder, 4 nine and six pounders, cannon cartridges and ball, 2380 musket
+cartridges, 8 chests of arms, 200 pair of shoes, and a quantity of
+entrenching tools; all of which proved very acceptable to the
+continental troops, who had no redundency of any articles whatever. In
+the preceding midnight, governor Carleton was conveyed, in a boat, with
+muffled paddles, by a secret way, to the Three Rivers, and arrived safe
+at Quebec the Sunday following.
+
+Notwithstanding the advanced and severe season, general Montgomery
+marched on for the capital, expecting to be joined by colonel Arnold and
+his detachment in its neighbourhood, and designing to complete the
+reduction of Canada before the arrival of any British reinforcement. But
+while he was advancing, numbers were returning. An unhappy home sickness
+prevailed, and no specific was so efficacious as a discharge. No sooner
+was it administered, but the cure of nine out of ten was perfected; who,
+refusing to wait for boats to go by the way of Fort George, upon their
+arrival at Tyconderoga, flung their heavy packs over their shoulders,
+crossed the lake at that place, and undertook a march of two hundred
+miles with the greatest good will and alacrity. Three hundred of the
+continentals passed by Tyconderoga on their way home, by the end of the
+month. The ruin of the cause was further hazarded by the turbulent and
+mutinous spirit of several officers.
+
+Colonel Arnold’s arrival with his detachment, at Point Levi, was not
+known at Quebec for twenty-four hours; and was at length discovered by
+his ordering out some men to secure the midshipman of the Hunter sloop
+of war, who was just landed on that side the river; the boat returned,
+and carried the intelligence to Quebec; on which two ships of war were
+stationed, one above and the other below Wolfe’s Cove, to prevent the
+Americans crossing over. A council was called, and by a majority of one
+it was agreed _not_ to proceed immediately to attack the town. The
+contrary resolution, backed by vigorous exertion, would probably have
+put him into the possession of it. On the fifth of November it was
+really in a defenceless state, without a single soldier. Had the
+detachment crossed, the gates would, it is thought, have been opened by
+the disaffected and faint-hearted. The colonel however declared, that he
+would certainly make the attack when he had crossed, in case they were
+not discovered to be over. In the mean time the troops were employed in
+preparing scaling ladders. Before they were ready with these, colonel
+Maclean, the deputy governor, arrived at Quebec from Sorel [Nov. 12.]
+with about 170 men of his new raised regiment of emigrants; of this
+colonel Arnold had advice the next day, when, in the evening at nine
+o’clock, he began to embark his forces on board thirty-five canoes,
+leaving the ladders behind, and by four the next morning, got over and
+landed 500 men, wholly undiscovered. They landed in the small cove where
+the brave and enterprising general Wolfe did, now called Wolfe’s Cove.
+The Lizard’s barge rowing up the river, the colonel ordered her to be
+hailed, and fired upon for refusing to come in shore; on which she
+pushed off, and carried the account of the detachment’s having crossed
+over. But before this discovery, the men paraded on the Heights of
+Abraham. From thence they sent out a reconnoitering party toward the
+city, marched across the plain, and took possession of a large house,
+formerly owned by general Murray, and other adjacent houses, which
+afforded fine accommodations for the troops. Guards were placed on the
+different roads, to cut off the communication between the city and
+country. The main body, about noon, marched fairly in view of the enemy,
+and gave them three huzzas, which were returned by a few shot from the
+ramparts. In the evening the colonel sent a flag of truce with a demand
+of the garrison, in the name and on hehalf of the united colonies, which
+was fired upon as it approached the walls. The colonel was certainly
+overseen; he should have taken the scaling ladders along with him, have
+concealed his being over, and attempted a coup-de-main the next night,
+which might have been done with a prospect of success, as his Canadian
+friends, English and French, were in the city to second his operations,
+and as the sailors were then scattered on board the ships, some about
+Quebec, and others up the river. [Nov 16.] A company of men were sent to
+take possession of the general hospital. The Canadians were continually
+coming in to express their satisfaction at the continental forces having
+entered the country. The next day a certain account was received of the
+capture of Montreal. Early in the morning [Nov. 19.] the troops
+decamped, and marched up to Point-au-Trembles, about seven leagues from
+Quebec, through a thick settled country, where you meet every few miles
+with a handsome little chapel. This was the day on which governor
+Carleton arrived at Quebec; and the first thing he did was to turn out
+the suspected, and all who would not assist in the defence of the city.
+[Nov. 23.] By express from Montreal, the forces were informed that
+Montgomery was upon his march, and had sent down clothing for them. The
+general finding plenty of woollens at Montreal, at a reasonable price,
+gave his soldiers new clothes, after their having suffered much by the
+severity of the climate, to which they submitted with patience and
+resolution, particularly in marching from St. John’s to Montreal, the
+road being half leg deep in mire. He was also mindful of colonel
+Arnold’s detachment, which had suffered still greater hardships. General
+Montgomery arrived at one o’clock [Dec. 1.] with three armed schooners,
+men, ammunition, and provision, to the great joy of the colonel’s
+forces, who toward evening turned out and marched to the general’s
+quarters, and were there received and complimented by him upon their
+appearance. The next day the batteaux were sent to Point Levi for the
+scaling ladders. The general appeared before Quebec [Dec. 5.] which is
+the last we have heard of his movements.
+
+[Dec. 14.] General Howe issued orders for taking down the old north
+meeting-house, a large wooden building, containing a great deal of
+timber; and a hundred old wooden dwelling-houses and other buildings, to
+be used for fuel. The scarcity of this article, now that the usual
+supplies from the country are cut off, will reduce the inhabitants to an
+entreme difficutly.
+
+
+[Dec. 30.] P. S. Admiral Shuldham is just arrived from Great-Britain in
+the Chatham man of war of 50 guns, to supersede admiral Greaves.
+
+
+                        END OF THE FIRST VOLUME.
+
+-----
+
+Footnote 1:
+
+  Townshend’s Historical Collections, p. 76.
+
+Footnote 2:
+
+  Prince’s New-England Chronology, part I.
+
+Footnote 3:
+
+  Wood’s New-England’s Prospect, ed. 1764, p. 5.
+
+Footnote 4:
+
+  See the Charter in Hutchinson’s Collection of papers, p 1.–23.
+
+Footnote 5:
+
+  Neale’s History of the Puritans. 4to. Vol. 1. p. 543.
+
+Footnote 6:
+
+  Hutchinson’s History of the Massachusetts Bay. Vol. II. p. 3.
+
+Footnote 7:
+
+  Suffolk Records.
+
+Footnote 8:
+
+  Suffolk Records.
+
+Footnote 9:
+
+  Hutchinson’s History, Vol. I p. 487.
+
+Footnote 10:
+
+  Prince’s Chronology, p. 238.
+
+Footnote 11:
+
+  Governor Winthrop’s MS. History.
+
+Footnote 12:
+
+  Hutchinson’s Letter of December 7. 1762.
+
+Footnote 13:
+
+  Hutchinson’s History, Vol. I p. 251 and 252.
+
+Footnote 14:
+
+  Extract from Governor Winthrop’s MS. History sent me by Gov. Trumbull
+  from Connecticut.
+
+Footnote 15:
+
+  Massachusetts Records, Vol. I.
+
+Footnote 16:
+
+  Hutchinson’s History. Vol I. p. 424.
+
+Footnote 17:
+
+  Massachusetts Records, in many places.
+
+Footnote 18:
+
+  Mr. John Calender’s Century Sermon.
+
+Footnote 19:
+
+  Massachusetts Records for the 4th of November, 1646, Vol. I.
+
+Footnote 20:
+
+  Hutchinson’s History, Vol. II. p. 2 and 4.
+
+Footnote 21:
+
+  ibid. Vol. I. p. 115.
+
+Footnote 22:
+
+  Hutchinson’s Collection, p. 420.
+
+Footnote 23:
+
+  Chalmer’s Political Annals, under Connecticut and Rhode-Island.
+
+Footnote 24:
+
+  Neal’s History of _New-England_, Vol. I. p. 214–217.
+
+Footnote 25:
+
+  Hutchinson’s History. Vol. I. p. 268.
+
+Footnote 26:
+
+  Ibid. p. 328.
+
+Footnote 27:
+
+  See Hutchinson’s collection of papers, p. 477–506. The Massachusetts
+  assembly in their answer to Gov. Hutchinson in 1773, quoted the above
+  passages in such a manner and to such a purpose, as expresses their
+  opinion of the truth of what Randolph declared.
+
+Footnote 28:
+
+  Chalmer’s Political Annals, p. 313.
+
+Footnote 29:
+
+  Smith’s History of New Jersey, p. 513.
+
+Footnote 30:
+
+  Smith’s History of New-Jersey, p. 517.
+
+Footnote 31:
+
+  ibid. p. 528–529.
+
+Footnote 32:
+
+  ibid. 536.
+
+Footnote 33:
+
+  Corrupted by time into Whore-Kill. The name of many rivers, in
+  New-York particularly terminate with kill, which means both river and
+  rivulet.
+
+Footnote 34:
+
+  The manuscript copy contains a number of authorities from Bracton,
+  Fortesque, the petition of right, &c. See Smith, p. 129, the note.
+
+Footnote 35:
+
+  Smith, p. 117–123.
+
+Footnote 36:
+
+  See Chalmer’s Political Annals under the head of Virginia, for many of
+  the preceding and subsequent articles respecting that colony.
+
+Footnote 37:
+
+  Bland’s Inquiry into the rights of the British colonies.
+
+Footnote 38:
+
+  Bland’s Inquiry into the rights of the British colonies.
+
+Footnote 39:
+
+  Chalmer’s Political Annals, under Virginia.
+
+Footnote 40:
+
+  Locke’s Works, Vol. IV, p. 519, &^c. 1779.
+
+Footnote 41:
+
+  Chalmers’s Political Annals, B. I. p. 537, 538.
+
+Footnote 42:
+
+  Most of what is said upon Carolina is taken from Chalmers’s Political
+  Annals, under the head of that province.
+
+Footnote 43:
+
+  A defence of the American Constitution of Government, by John Adams,
+  Esq. p. 365.
+
+Footnote 44:
+
+  The Modern Universal History, Vol. xl., 1763.
+
+Footnote 45:
+
+  Chalmers’s Political Annals, under the head of Pennsylvania.
+
+Footnote 46:
+
+  Chalmers’s Annals.
+
+Footnote 47:
+
+  Chalmers’s Annals, p. 654.
+
+Footnote 48:
+
+  The Modern Universal History, vol. xli. p. 19. 1764.
+
+Footnote 49:
+
+  Ibid. p. 20.
+
+Footnote 50:
+
+  Modern Universal History’ vol. xl. p. 453–463. 1763.
+
+Footnote 51:
+
+  William Smith’s History of New-York, p. 75.
+
+Footnote 52:
+
+  Chalmers’s Political Annals.
+
+Footnote 53:
+
+  Lord Camden’s Speech in April 1766.
+
+Footnote 54:
+
+  Hutchinson’s History, Vol. II. p. 74.
+
+Footnote 55:
+
+  Hutchinson’s History, Vol. II. p. 271, 290, 294, 321. and governor
+  Burnet’s Speech to the Massachusetts general court, in the
+  Massachusetts Records for 1728.
+
+Footnote 56:
+
+  Massachusetts Records for 1729 and 1731. Hutchinson’s History, Vol.
+  II. p. 355, 360, 363.
+
+Footnote 57:
+
+  The present lieutenant governor. [1772.]
+
+Footnote 58:
+
+  The present governor. (1772.)
+
+Footnote 59:
+
+  Grand father of the present Sir William Pepperrell. (1787.)
+
+Footnote 60:
+
+  Governor Shirley’s letter of February 16, 1744.
+
+Footnote 61:
+
+  Hutchinson’s History, Vol. II. p. 407–420. The above account varies
+  from Hutchinson’s, being corrected in some instances, from a
+  manuscript copy of the History of the Reduction of Louisburg, sent by
+  Mr. Shirley, to the duke of Newcastle; and improved in others from
+  information given me,
+
+Footnote 62:
+
+  See the postscript of Dean Tucker’s Humble Address.
+
+Footnote 63:
+
+  The Dean’s Letter to Edmund Burke, esq. p. 27.
+
+Footnote 64:
+
+  Hutchinson’s History, Vol. II. p. 424.
+
+Footnote 65:
+
+  See a collection of letters and essays in favour of public liberty, in
+  three Vols. printed for Wilkie. Vol. III. p. 34. 42.
+
+Footnote 66:
+
+  See a short account of the proceedings of the deputation. p. 9.
+
+Footnote 67:
+
+  Dr. Chauncey’s thanksgiving sermon for the repeal of the stamp act in
+  a note.
+
+Footnote 68:
+
+  Dr. Langdon told it me in conversation: and afterward mentioned it in
+  his sermon preached before the convention of the ministers.
+
+Footnote 69:
+
+  Now president of Yale College in Connecticut.
+
+Footnote 70:
+
+  From Brooke Woodcock, Esq. of Saffron Waldon, who served at the taking
+  of Bellisle, Martinico, and the Havannah.
+
+Footnote 71:
+
+  Mr. Burke’s speech on American taxation, April 19, 1774.
+
+Footnote 72:
+
+  Otis’s Rights of the British Colonies, p. 57.
+
+Footnote 73:
+
+  Ibid, p. 59.
+
+Footnote 74:
+
+  Otis’s Vindication of the British Colonies, p. 57.
+
+Footnote 75:
+
+  Ibid. p. 59.
+
+Footnote 76:
+
+  His Rights of the British Colonies, p. 63.
+
+Footnote 77:
+
+  Mr. Hutchinson’s letter of March 8, 1766.
+
+Footnote 78:
+
+  Mr. Agent Bollan’s letters of that date to the Massachusetts general
+  court.
+
+Footnote 79:
+
+  Mr. Sayre’s letter to Captain Sears, of New-York, dated London, 7th of
+  Febuary, 1764.
+
+Footnote 80:
+
+  Mr. Jackson’s letter to lieutenant-governor Hutchinson, Dec. 26, 1765.
+
+Footnote 81:
+
+  Mr. Ingersoll’s letter of March 6, 1765.
+
+Footnote 82:
+
+  The present secretary of congress.
+
+Footnote 83:
+
+  Late governor Trumbull of Connecticut.
+
+Footnote 84:
+
+  Mr. Hughes’s letters of October and November, 1765.
+
+Footnote 85:
+
+  See the Gentleman’s Magazine, Vol. XXXV. p. 538.
+
+Footnote 86:
+
+  Ibid. Vol. XXXVI. p. 94.
+
+Footnote 87:
+
+  Ibid. Vol. XXXVI. p. 94 and 95.
+
+Footnote 88:
+
+  Mr. Edmund Burke’s speech; April 19, 1774.
+
+Footnote 89:
+
+  Political Memoirs, printed 1783.
+
+Footnote 90:
+
+  Mr. Burke’s speech.
+
+Footnote 91:
+
+  The London merchants letter to John Hancock, Esq. and others, dated
+  February 28.
+
+Footnote 92:
+
+  The lords protest against the repeal of the stamp act.
+
+Footnote 93:
+
+  Mr. Hutchinson’s loss was 2396l. 3s. 1d. 1–2. Mr. Oliver’s 129l. 3s.
+  Mr. Hallowell’s 289l. 0s. 1d. 1–2. Mr. Story’s 50l. 11s. 6d. 3–4, all
+  sterling.
+
+Footnote 94:
+
+  Mr. Hartley’s letters.
+
+Footnote 95:
+
+  January 21, 1768.
+
+Footnote 96:
+
+  January 30.
+
+Footnote 97:
+
+  February 2.
+
+Footnote 98:
+
+  Mr. Bollan’s letter to Mr. Hutchinson, August 11, 1767.
+
+Footnote 99:
+
+  The Lanceston of 40 guns, the Mermaid of 28, Glasgow 20, Beaver 14,
+  Senegal 14, Bonetta 10, and several armed schooners, besides the
+  Romney of 60 guns, and other ships which had been some time in the
+  harbour.
+
+Footnote 100:
+
+  Mr. M. H’s letter to Mr. Hutchinson.
+
+Footnote 101:
+
+  Mr. Otis afterward prosecuted Mr. Robinson for the assault, and the
+  law gave heavy damages against him; but Mr. Otis generously forgave
+  him upon an acknowledgment of the offence.
+
+Footnote 102:
+
+  The date of the committee’s letter to the Philadelphians after taking
+  the sense of the inhabitants a second time.
+
+Footnote 103:
+
+  The doctor’s account to me, when discoursing upon what is called the
+  massacre.
+
+Footnote 104:
+
+  The trial of the soldiers, p. 52.
+
+Footnote 105:
+
+  Samuel Gray, Samuel Maverick, James Caldwell, and Crispus Attucks.
+  Samuel Gray was a journeyman, and wrought in the rope-walks belonging
+  to Mr. John Gray, the rope-maker.
+
+Footnote 106:
+
+  Lieutenant-governor Hutchinson’s letter of December 10, 1770.
+
+Footnote 107:
+
+  The Rev. Mr. Whitney’s discourse on the public fast.
+
+Footnote 108:
+
+  M. Hartley.
+
+Footnote 109:
+
+  The word _caucus_, and its derivative caucusing, are often used in
+  Boston. The last answers much to what we stile parliamenteering or
+  electioneering. All my repeated applications to different gentlemen
+  have not furnished me with a satisfactory account of the origin of
+  _caucus_. It seems to mean a number of persons, whether more or less,
+  met together to consult upon adopting and prosecuting some scheme of
+  policy, for carrying a favorite point. The word is not of novel
+  invention. More than 50 years ago, Mr. S. Adam’s father, and 20
+  others, one or two from the north end of the town, where all the ship
+  business is carried on, used to meet, make a caucus, and lay their
+  plan for introducing certain persons into places of trust and power.
+  When they had settled it, they separated, and used each their
+  particular influence within his own circle. He and his friends would
+  furnish themselves with ballots, including the names of the parties
+  fixed upon, which they distributed on the days of election. By acting
+  in concert together, with a careful and extensive distribution of
+  ballots, they generally carried the elections to their own mind. In
+  like manner it was, that Mr. Samuel Adams first became a
+  representative for Boston.
+
+Footnote 110:
+
+  The Rev. Mr. Whitney’s Discourse.
+
+Footnote 111:
+
+  The lords protest against the act for the better regulating of the
+  government.
+
+Footnote 112:
+
+  Parliamentary Debates relative to general Howe. Mr. Galloway’s
+  answers.
+
+Footnote 113:
+
+  Lords who signed the protest—Richmond, Portland, Rockingham, Stamford,
+  Stanhope, Torrington, Ponsonby, Wycombe, Camden.
+
+Footnote 114:
+
+  See the Remembrancer, Part II. p. 227, the note.
+
+Footnote 115:
+
+  See the Spectator, No. 509.
+
+Footnote 116:
+
+  See general Gage’s account of the behavior of the troops, in the
+  London Gazette.
+
+Footnote 117:
+
+  This was practised.
+
+Footnote 118:
+
+  Afterward a lieutenant-colonel in Shelden’s light horse.
+
+Footnote 119:
+
+  So Tyconderoga is frequently called for the sake of brevity,
+  especially by the people dwelling in its neighborhood.
+
+Footnote 120:
+
+  The territory has now the name of Vermont.
+
+Footnote 121:
+
+  Between 112 and 120 iron cannon from 6 to 24 pounders; 50 swivels of
+  different sizes; 2 ten inch mortars; 1 howitzer; 1 cohorn; 10 tons of
+  musket balls; 3 cart load of flints 30 new carriages; a considerable
+  quantity of shells; a warehouse full of meterials to carry on boat
+  building; 100 stand of small arms; 10 casks of very indifferent
+  powder; a brass cannon; 30 barrels of flour; 18 barrels of pork, and
+  some beans and pease.
+
+  The prisoners were the captain, lieutenant, a gunner, 2 serjeants, and
+  44 rank and file, beside women and children.
+
+Footnote 122:
+
+  Since collector of imposts and excise for the county of Suffolk in
+  Massachusetts.
+
+Footnote 123:
+
+  General Burgoyne’s Letter.
+
+Footnote 124:
+
+  This resolution was assigned by a near female relation of the general,
+  to a gentlewoman with whom she had been acquainted at school, as a
+  reason why the other, upon obtaining a pass to quit Boston, should not
+  tarry at her father’s (Mr. Cary’s) house in Charlestown.
+
+Footnote 125:
+
+  Mr. afterward major Winslow, of the American artillery (who was
+  personally acquainted with the general, and crossed over from Boston
+  to the place of action after the battle, and narrowly surveyed the
+  body) related his being so shot, and the hand’s being bloody as if by
+  the wound.
+
+Footnote 126:
+
+  Entick’s History of the War, from 1755, Vol. IV. p. 20. printed for
+  Mr. Dilly.
+
+Footnote 127:
+
+  Dr. Price’s two tracts on civil liberty, Part II. p. 111 and 112,
+  1788. The first restraining act was passed March the 30th, the second
+  April the 13th. The news of them was undoubtedly carried by the
+  vessels from London, which arrived at Philadelphia the evening of June
+  the 7th, and had on board major Skeen.
+
+Footnote 128:
+
+  A shilling a day.
+
+Footnote 129:
+
+  Governor Martin went not on board the Cruiser sloop till the middle of
+  July.
+
+Footnote 130:
+
+  The bishop of St. Asaph.
+
+Footnote 131:
+
+  Lord Camden.
+
+Footnote 132:
+
+  Lord Chatham.
+
+Footnote 133:
+
+  General Washington’s Private Letter.
+
+Footnote 134:
+
+  Mr. Thomas Gamble’s letter to general Gage.
+
+Footnote 135:
+
+  See the copy in Mr. Smith’s History of New-York.
+
+Footnote 136:
+
+  Eighty barrels of flour, 11 ditto rice, 7 ditto pease, 6 furkins of
+  butter, 134 barrels of pork, 7 ditto damaged, 124 barrels of
+  gun-powder, 300 swivel shot, 1 box of musket shot, 6564 musket
+  cartridges, 150 stand of French arms, 3 royal mortars, 61 shells, 500
+  hand-granades, Royal fusileers muskets 83, accoutrements 83, rigging
+  for three vessels at least, 1 major, 2 captains, 3 lieutenants, the
+  captain of the schooner which is sunk, a commissary and surgeon,
+  soldiers 83.
+
+------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+
+
+
+                          TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES
+
+
+ ● No typos were fixed.
+ ● Used numbers for footnotes, placing them all at the end of the last
+     chapter.
+ ● Enclosed italics font in _underscores_.
+ ● The caret (^) serves as a superscript indicator, applicable to
+     individual characters (like 2^d) and even entire phrases (like
+     1^{st}).
+
+
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 75984 ***