The Martin Howard Saga

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[Part of: “Let Those Flatter Who Fear”: American Independence in Verse.]

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I. To his Friend in Rhode Island
Martin Howard, Halifax (Nova Scotia), January 20, 1765

I’ve no ambition to appear in print
But if these thoughts are worth the public eye
I leave you liberty to publish them.
With real concern I’ve watched the newspapers
Pouring abuse against the mother country;
It’s time that some American should draw
His pen in her defense—nay, vindication. 

The jurisdiction of our Parliament
Extends abroad to every English subject;
Wherever he may be, he’s represented 
In that expansive body. Some suggest
A change in membership; I urge the danger
Of innovations. The unnatural mixing
In Parliament of people from the far
Dominion would destroy its symmetry.
Freedom and happiness will be secured
Not through a share of Parliamentary elections, 
But though that body’s virtue and its wisdom.

I have but little malice in my heart
Yet idle moments find me wishing these
Unworthy sons of Britain could experience
The iron of the Spanish Inquisition.

II. To the People of Newport (Rhode Island)
Martin Howard, The Newport Mercury, August 26, 1765

I too am native of these colonies,
My heart attached more warmly to their interests
Than the hearts of those who persecute me.
I’ve published my opinions with the freedom
That is the boast of every Englishman.
It’s therefore with astonishment I see
My countrymen directing public fury
Against my person and my property.
Under the pretense that they serve the cause
Of freedom, they would take away the right
Of private judgment, and block up the avenues
Of truth. Indeed I only exercised
The very privilege that they claim and use
Against me. As for the positions I
Defended in my letter, I retract—none.

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