Josaih Jones and Johnathan Hicks to Massachusetts Congress

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Concord, June 14, 1775.

GENTLEMEN: The sentiments of our heads are such, that we cannot but hope an honest declaration of them will produce some alleviation of the difficulties to which we are reduced. We faithfully acknowledge that we have heretofore entertained opinions variant from those of our fellow-countrymen in general; not, however, in consenting to the equity of every ministerial requisition or parliamentary claim, but in supposing it inexpedient and unsafe for us to bear arms against the power of Great Britain. If for this we should incur the imputation of cowardice, yet by no means let us be deemed traitors and enemies to our Country. We can say before God and man, with perfect sincerity, that we do most affectionately wish prosperity to our native land, and to the inhabitants in general of these American Colonies; and that we are ready at any time and at all times, so far as our abilities extend, to do any thing within the limits of justice that appears to us to be subservient to this important end. With the strictest regard to truth we affirm, that it was merely with a view of avoiding danger, and not from any want of friendship to our Country' s cause and interest, that we of late took up our residence in the Town of Boston; and we are not conscious of having offended our American brethren in any other instance of our conduct. Could we now have our liberty and be permitted to live securely in the country, we should be ready to bind ourselves under the most, solemn obligations never directly or indirectly to oppose, or in any respect knowingly to disserve the cause in which the people are so seriously engaged. If we should be so unhappy as not to discern the propriety and prudence of any measures by them adopted for the security of their, lives, liberties, and properties, yet we are ready to submit to the united wisdom of this whole Continent, and to acquiesce in the judgment of our superiours, so far, at least, as in no degree to counteract their resolutions.

What we earnestly request, therefore, is, that the honourable Congress would take what we thus faithfully offer, under their candid consideration, and devise means for our liberation, that we may so serve our Country at least as to support ourselves, by our own industry, without being a publick charge. If we may not be wholly released from our confinement, it would be a favour most thankfully accepted, to have the privilege of the yard, as the season is very warm. Whatever indulgences may be granted to us shall always be remembered with the warmest gratitude by, gentlemen, your very obedient humble servants,

JOSIAH JONES,
JONATHAN HICKS.