AN ADDRESS OF THE LEGISLATURE TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS

Boston: Edes and Sons, 1781. [3]-22, [2 blanks], 7, [1 blank], 8 pp. Lacking the half title. Stitched, untrimmed, light wear. Early 19th century ownership signatures. Except as noted, Very Good.

The title page is preceded by "an order of the House, dated Feb. 26, 1781, that the Address and two appended bills be printed and distributed" [ESTC]. The Order is signed in type by Caleb Davis, Speaker of the House, and John Hancock.
The Address, signed in type by Jeremiah Powell and Caleb Davis, is a rallying cry for the people of Massachusetts to support the onerous Revolutionary War budget. "The animated struggle of six years successful warfare (truncated) has enhanced your national character, and, on your part, done honour to human nature, while it has covered your enemies with disgrace & confusion."
The Address acknowledges the difficulties-- both economic and military-- that lie ahead, explains the necessity for another bond issue, and the patriotic duty of citizens to purchase the bonds. Although other investments "would make a much greater advancement of your interest, yet you cannot but recollect that if your Army, for want of supplies should quit the field, such gain would serve only to enrich the minions of a conqueror." The Address prints a table disclosing the use to which the war taxes have been put to date.
The first appended bill concerns adjusting the state currency and paying monies owed on Continental loan certificates; the second bill authorizes the Treasurer to borrow $400,000 for the prosecution of the war.
FIRST EDITION. Evans 17216. ESTC W37193. Sabin 45586. (Inventory #: 34861)