An Oration on the Principals of Liberty and Independence. Pronounced July 4 ---- 1808. At the request of a number of the inhabitants of the town of Dedham and its vicinity. In Commemoration of the Anniversary of American Independence

Dedham, [Mass.]: H. Mann, July 8, 1808. 8vo pamphlet, printed wrappers, bound with thread. 16 pp. A passionate oration on liberty and independence, and a call to defend American rights against corruption and avarice. Richardson states "In the catalogue of our rights, that of electing our rulers, though in itself a burden, takes a high rank. Responsibility is a barrier to oppression. When rulers are subject to the laws, and responsible for their conduct, and the people vigilant and discerning, the laws will equally protect the rights of all, and the government will be administered with an eye to the public good...But the abuse of this right is almost as dangerous to the public liberty as its loss. The wisdom that discerns, the patriotism that desired, and the spirit and energy that pursued the public good, are essential requisites in a public character. But when a people, poisoned by calumny, and deluded by falsehood, elect to office those who flatter their vanity, inflame their passions, and mislead their judgments, both the public liberty and the public morals are in danger of being destroyed. It is a tenet propagated by the corrupt and ambitious, to establish their power on the ruins of the public liberty." Also included is a tribute to the honorable Fisher Ames; the conclusion cites European examples of collapse. CONDITION: Good with loose binding, toning and foxing as usual, extremities bumped and chipped, 2 cm open tear on center edge of front wrapper.