Book Description

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1788 edition. Excerpt: ... occasion. It was conjectured by them, that the malcontents, from a want of resources, would be dispersed by the army under General Lincoln; and, in that case, they supposed it more than probable, that Shays would seize on the heights which lie between the counties of Hampshire and Berkshire, where strong posts were to be found, and the passes easily defended; and, thus situated, would draw the means of his subsistence, from the' towns well affected to government, which abounded in plenty; securing also, perhaps, the most important characters, as hostages. They therefore, voluntarily associated to the number of about 500, for the defence of themselves, and of the publick cause. In this body, most of the respectable inhabitants of the county were to be found, and men of the first importance submitted to the duty of the ranks. The insurgents began to assemble at Weft Stockbridge, under one Hubbard, who posted himself at the meeting os three roads, for the convenience probably, of collecting men. Here he drew together about 150 or 200 of the disaffected. It was conceived to be absolutely necessary, to disperse this party, before their nur&bers sliould grow more respectable. The whole body of the friends to government were ordered to march for this purpose, in several directions, which the roads naturally pointed out, and and which would enable them to surround the enemy. On the approach of an advanced party, consisting only of thirty seven infantry, and seven gentlemen on horseback, they were fired upon by Hubbard's sentries; and the whole of his men were instantly put into good order, and commanded to fire. But, such was the effect of their situation upon their minds, that they staggered apparently. Timely advantage was taken of their...