In January Last, I wrote verry fully to the Right Honble the Lords of Trade praying them to Represent this long unhappy Dispute to his Majtie that there might be an End put to the Contention to which letter I have recd the Honr of their Lordships Answer, Saying they hope upon the return of my answer to their Letter no further delay may be occasioned to the accomplishing a matter of so much advantage to both Provinces and my answer to their Lordships Letter is Long Since gone forward and I shall rejoyce in Seeing this troublesome affaire brot to a happy conclusion.
Gent In whatsoever you can project for his Majties Honr & Service and for the Prosperity of his good Subjects in this Province you Shall have my hearty assistance and Consent.
Janr 1t 1733–4.
J. Belcher.
The reply in rhyme is found to follow very closely the official and more dignified document which was presented to the Governor, and is probably a versification of the prose message done for the amusement of the writer only, and never intended for the Governor’s ear. It is endorsed “Ansr to ye Govrs Speech Jany 1733–4. Scrub Poetry.”
PUNCH TO SHEARBACK
Good Sir, what fatall Dreadful things
The proclamation of French King’s
War ’gainst Emperour of Germany
May bring upon this new Country!