ALS signed “Clinton,” one page, 7.5 x 12.25, January 28, 1775. Letter from Clinton Beatty to his brother Erkuries discussing the drift toward war just months before Lexington and Concord. In part: “Your letter contained such great sentiments of patriotism. You expect each one of us is preparing for an expected war. Believe me we are not such patriots here as you imagine. We care not what Great Britain is going to do. We are not anxious to instruct ourselves in the military arts. We hope we shall never have occasion to be conversant in military affairs. But I must confess it is a laudable design to prepare for what is doubtful. And also you are not to blame in learning the exercises and in being willing to stand up for your country. A coward is a despicable creature, unworthy of the company of men, and he ought to be reckoned a brute than a man who will not defend Liberty and Country.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered foxing and toning, a few edge tears, and show-through from the address panel to the reverse.
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