Samuel Adams, A.L.S. Boston, August 25-27, 1785 : to Elbridge Gerry

Samuel Adams, A.L.S. Boston, August 25-27, 1785 : to Elbridge Gerry

Boston 1785

[4] p. ; 22 x 18 cm.

MSS L1980.1.255

Adams comments on his continued opposition to the Society. He focuses on the proposed alterations to the Insitution. He discusses the hereditary provisions and worries that it will not be long before the order "descend not only in the direct line, but to collaterals without regard to their degree in perpetuam, provided they can prove themselves descended from & of the true blood of their first self-enobled ancestor." Adams is also concerned about the proposal that the Society's funds be placed under the control of state legislatures because the "Sword knot & cockade & blue ribbon will glare in the eyes of thoughtless men in America, as stars & garters and other ostentatious baubles do in the eyes of of that kind of man, who we know are by far too numerous, in every part of the world" and the funds "may become the means of bribery, and on some occasions violent temptations to corruption."
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L1980.1.255

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