December 4, 1786
Lincoln, Benjamin, 1733-1810
Autograph letter signed
Title: to George Washington
Refers to Washington's resignation as head of the Order of the Cincinnati. Describes a settlement he left after receiving a request to take command of the Massachusetts state militia, which was needed to suppress Shays' Rebellion. In response to a question from Washington, Lincoln discusses Shays' Rebellion in detail: the anger it is arousing, its causes, his expectation of bloodshed, the role of debt, and the rebellions current advantages. He writes that "In Short the want of industry economy & common honesty Seem to be the causes of the present commotions." Includes a postscript note…
GLC01478