Creator
Archibald Hinschelwood
Context
This letter was written in 1765, after the Stamp Act was passed.
Audience
Unknown
Purpose
To compare reactions to the Stamp Act in Nova Scotia, Canada, with those in Boston
Historical Significance
This letter presents a slightly less antagonistic response to the Stamp Act, occurring in Nova Scotia.
I had the pleasure to receive your letter . . . and am greatly obliged to you for your kind remembrance of me, and the pains you have taken to get me appointed for the disposal of the stamps in this province [Nova Scotia] . . .
There is a violent spirit of opposition raised on the continent against the execution of the Stamp Act, the mob in Boston have carried it very high against the Secre[tar]y [Andrew Oliver] . . . for his acceptance of an office in consequence of that Act. They have even proceeded to sow violence, and burnt him in effigy. They threaten to pull down & burn the stamp office row building; and that they will hold every man as infamous that shall presume to carry the Stamp Act into execution, so it is thought Mr. Oliver will resign.
I don't find any such turbulent spirit to prevail among us, if it should, the means are in our Hands to prevent any tumults or Insults; what the consequences may be in the colonies who have no military force to keep the rabble in order, I cannot pretend.
Steven Mintz, ed. "The Stamp Act Crisis" on Digital History Web site (2003), http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu/documents/documents_p2.cfm?doc=258 (accessed February 28, 2007).