[American Revolution] (Knox, William). The Interest of the Merchants and Manufacturers of Great Britain, in the Present Contest with the Colonies, Stated and Considered

London: Printed for T. Cadell, 1774. First edition, variant issue (with no price at bottom of title-page; without "go" as first word on p. 17; with press figures on pp. 14 and 22, as per Adams, but with press figure "4" on p. 37, instead of "5", per Adams; with press figure on p. 32--as per second state--and without press figure on p. 45, as per first state). 8vo. (ii), 50 pp. Later full drab paper-covered boards, brown calf spine label, stamped in gilt, small chipping to same; all edges trimmed; abrasion on front paste-down from removed book-plate; contemporary ownership initials at top of title-page; faint abrasion on verso of title-page, and at foot of p. 50. Adams, The American Controversy 74-40a; Sabin 34885; Howes I-64; ESTC T37338

Credited to William Knox, Undersecretary of State in the American Department in the British government, and former provost marshal in Georgia. An ardent supporter of the British government, here Knox argues against the growing unrest in the American colonies, warning that separation will lead to their economic ruin: "The continuance of their trade to the Colonies, clearly and entirely depends upon the laws of England having authority there. It is their operation which binds the commerce of the Colonies to this country. It is their operation which gives security to the property of the trader sent thither. Give up the authority of Parliament and there is an end to your trade, and a total loss of your property. But if that authority is supported and maintained, the trade of the Colonies must remain to Great Britain, and the property you intrust them with will remain secure, protected by acts of Parliament made in your behalf."

[American Revolution] (Knox, William). The Interest of the Merchants and Manufacturers of Great Britain, in the Present Contest with the Colonies, Stated and Considered

[American Revolution] (Knox, William). The Interest of the Merchants and Manufacturers of Great Britain, in the Present Contest with the Colonies, Stated and Considered