Lot 305
(Hancock, John). A secretarial letter containing partial content of a letter he had written for Governor Hancock during Hancock's final illness to the Lieut. Governor of Massachusetts (Hancock was in his ninth term as Governor), 3pp, 9x7", Concord, 31 August 1793. Good; some paper loss from multiple margin tears and chipping. Hancock had given instructions that the original letter be burned as soon as the Lt. Gov. read it. Hancock died soon after (8 Oct.), and the secretary offered some of the contents of the letter to his friends because "it breathes the pure spirit of patriotism…as I set by his side when he deliver'd these sentiments …." The letter, which is partially quoted, implies strong opposition to Washington's federal goverment's position of neutrality concerning the war between France and England and alludes to Citizen Genet's ill treatment by being denied a direct communication to the President. He states, "I love my country, but will not give up its liberties to the last drop of my blood." The secretary quotes Hancock as often saying "Rebellion to tyrants is perfect Obedience to God" and ends with a poem to the deceased Hancock. Rare and possibly unique. Matted with an engraving of Hancock.
Estimated Value $500 - 750.
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| Realized $299 |
