From a Gentleman in London to One in New-York

Page v1:241

London, April 5, 1774.

I know not in what language to speak my concern and indignation relative to the Boston Port Bill. He who may view it singly, as pointed at a part of America, knows but little of the temper and designs of Administration. — The liberty of this country seems to have expired in their hands. — You must summon all the wisdom and firmness of the United Continent of America to preserve yours. I know it to be the design, and an indispensable measure, to divide — you must, therefore, subdue every prejudice, and bear with every infirmity, among yourselves, that, like a bundle of tender rods, you may not be separately broken to pieces. If the other Provinces do not warmly and firmly support an opposition to this horrid attempt to ruin the town of Boston, you must fall the easy victims of tyranny, and become the most abject slaves of the earth.

Let me entreat you, therefore, to turn a deaf ear to every prejudice and idle report against your suffering fellow subjects; forgive their errors, and think of nothing but mutual defence.

There were a few of us who petitioned Parliament which was all we could do. The Sheriffs of this city stand at the head of the several petitions; they behaved nobly and spirited on this occasion; for they were first in proposing, and active in the execution of the affair — being the first in rank in the county of Middlesex, where the petitions were signed, their example gave weight and dignity to the proceedings.

I do not hold myself answerable to give reasons why those gentlemen, who formerly spoke the language of America, should have become so few in number; but, for your satisfaction, can assure you that Lord Chatham holds the same friendly sentiments of you. When he is asked why he does not attend the House of Lords, he says, I have talked long enough to the tapestry. ^[*]

The times are growing dangerous, and I know they would be glad to have my head; therefore you will excuse my not writing my name — you know my hand. —

Yours.

Notes

Page nts

Note from page v1:241: 1.* The House of Lords is hung with tapestry.

Letter from London to a Gentleman in New-York. The wisdom and firmness of the United Continent of America must be summoned to support their liberty. If Boston is not sustained, all the rest will fall the easy victims of Tyranny. The Sheriffs of London headed the Petitions to Parliament, they were the first in proposing, and active in getting them up. [1774-04-05] Anonymous. [S4-V1-p0241] [Document Details][Complete Volume]