Troop instructions, 1721
Item 5765
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Description
Governor Samuel Shute wrote to Samuel Thaxter who was commander of the Massachusetts and Maine forces fighting against the French and Indians during the French and Indian Wars cautioning against the killing of Indians. This detailed list of instructions demonstrates the governor's assertion of his authority, in the face of constant opposition from the Massachusetts Assembly. While Shute cautions against the shedding of blood, he adds: "But if you are attack'd you are to defend yourself with Courage."