Message of His Excellency William A. Buckingham, Governor of Connecticut, to the Legislature of the State, May Session, 1861. Printed by Order of the Legislature.
Hartford: J.R. Hawley & Co., State Printers, 1861. 18 pp. 8vo. Paper wrappers. First edition. Lacking the wrappers on some issues else very good, scattered foxing, tear and small chip to lower margin of last leaf. Not in Sabin. Samuel J. May Anti-Slavery Collection. Item #43730
William A. Buckingham (1804-1875) won the election as governor in 1860, narrowly defeating Thomas Seymour. "The New Haven Register" expressed the concern of the Republicans and abolitionists when it declared "A nation is waiting in almost breathless suspense to hear the results" since the Democrats declared a vote for Buckingham was a vote for abolition and thus the loss of Southern business. This address to the Connecticut legislature was just a few weeks after the commencement of the war. "The condition of our country is critical... Seven thousand men in arms backed by nineteen batteries of artillery, have, in open day, with disloyal heart and traitorous hands, struck at the national flag in the harbor of Charleston... The sceptre of authority must be upheld, and allegiance secured. It is no time to make concession to rebels, or parley with men in arms... indifferent or disloyal we cannot be. Fail or falter we shall not." Thereafter follows his recommendations for military support and preparations which would be passed by the legislature. Uncommon. OCLC locates ten copies at eight institutions.
Price: $400.00