Hancock, John (1737-1793) to John Sullivan
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00300 Author/Creator: Hancock, John (1737-1793) Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Letter signed Date: 5 July 1787 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 30 x 18 cm. Order a Copy
Massachusetts Governor Hancock requests permission of New Hampshire Governor Sullivan to send troops in pursuit of rebels involved in Shays's rebellion through his state.
Boston July 5th 1787
Sir,
I have the Hounour of inclosing your Excellency a Resolution of the General Court passed the 29th June ultimo expressive of the just sense they entertain of your friendly and generous disposition in rendering efficacious the exertions of this Government for the suppression of the late rebellion which permit me to make known to your Excellency - The lenient Measures that have been taken for the restoration of peace and tranquility I am in hopes will be attended with that success as to convince those unhappy and deluded offenders to whom the Mercy of this Government have been extended to return and become peaceable Citizens thereof; but should they continue their atrocious & traitorous exertions I have to request your Excellency that the Troops of this State if necessary, may be permitted under such restriction and limitations as may be by you adopted to preserve the tranquility of the respective States and the security of the Citizens thereof to march the Troops of this Government into the limits of the State of New Hampshire if any of the Rebels [2] shall have taken residence within the same for rebellious purposes or with an intention of plundering[,] captivating or annoying, any of the Citizens of this Commonwealth,
I am,
Sir,
With Every Sentiment
of Esteem,
Your Excellency's
Very hble Servt.
John Hancock
His Excellency John Sullivan Esqr.
[docket]
Gov. Hancock
Massats. Insurgents.
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