Thomas Rotch letter to the Citizens of Hartford, Connecticut.

              A-30-25  
  
	To the Citizens of Hartford convened to Celebrate what is
	called the anniversary of Independence--
                                  Having a few days since received a
	invitation through the medium of my neighbour Thomas Seymour
	Esqr to join my fellow Citizens in the celebration of what is
	called the anniversary of Independence, for which I return
	an acknowledgment of your respect and civility and ap
	-prehand it my duty to offer some reasons for not complying
	therewith,believing War inconsistant with and repugnant
	to the Christian Religion, directly contrary to the com
	-mand of our Saviour who declared, they that took the sword
        should perish with the sword, and that if his Kingdom was of
	this World then wou'd his servants fight, therefore I cannot
	unite in the celebration of a period introductory to the
	sheding of human blood, so far from it that my mind has
        been solemnly affected in the reflection that many very many
	precious souls were untimely cut off in that contest from an
	existance here, and launch'd into an awful Eternity;
	  With desires for an increase of the government of the Prince
	of peace in the hearts of the Children of Men, which breaths
	glory to God in the highest on Earth peace good will towards
	Men.  I subscribe your sincere Friend.  Thomas Rotch