John Hancock and Thomas Cushing to Council of Massachusetts

Page v3:1705

Philadelphia, November 29, 1775.

GENTLEMEN: We wrote you, on the 24th instant, that we thought the matter in dispute between the two Houses ought to be laid before the Congress, and their sentiments taken upon it; but, for various reasons, too many now to enumerate, this has not as yet been done. However, we have consulted the members of the Congress individually, and, upon conversing with them, we find that, in general, they are extremely desirous we should conform, in all Governmental matters, as near as possible to the spirit and substance of our charter; and it is their opinion that, when the resolutions of the 18th July last were passed, it was the intention of the Congress not to supersede the resolve of the 8th of June last, but to leave such Governments as were competent to the business to model and regulate their militia agreeable to their several constitutions, as prescribed by their respective charters. However, they said, as it appeared, from pur representation of matters, that our House of Representatives had conceived otherwise of this matter, and had claimed a right to a voice with the Council in the choice of militia officers; and that, if the dispute was continued, it would throw the Colony into a ferment; and considering, also, that at this critical juncture our militia might be suddenly wanted, and it was therefore highly expedient and necessary it should be immediately settled and regulated, it was their opinion that it would be advisable for the Council, during the present exigency of our affairs, to gratify the House of Representatives in this claim, but not by any means any further to deviate from the charter.

Thus we have collected and advised you of the sentiments of the members of the Congress in general, which we doubt not will be some aid to you, in your deliberations and determinations upon this important subject, and, were we present, we should vote agreeable to this advice.

We conclude, with great respect, your Honours' most obedient humble servants, JOHN HANCOCK,
THOMAS CUSHING.

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Council of Massachusetts-Bay.

Letter from John Hancock and Thomas Cushing to the Council of Massachusetts. After consultation with the Members of the Congress, they advise the Council to yield to the House during the present exigency, but not, by any means, any farther to deviate from the Charter. [1775-11-29] Hancock, John. [S4-V3-p1705] [Document Details][Complete Volume]