“Bradshaw’s Epitaph”: a Hoax Attributed to Franklin
Printed in The Pennsylvania Evening Post, December 14, 1775.
Ere thou pass, contemplate this cannon, |
That near its base lies deposited the dust of |
Who, nobly superior to all selfish regards, |
Despising alike the pagentry of courtly splendor, |
The blast of calumny, and the terrors of royal vengeance, |
Presided in the illustrious band of heroes and patriots, |
Who fairly and openly adjudged |
To a public and exemplary death, |
Thereby presenting to the amazed world, |
And transmitting down, through applauding ages, |
The most glorious example |
Of unshaken virtue, love of freedom, and impartial justice, |
Ever exhibited on the blood-stained theatre of human action. |
Pass not on till thou hast blessed his memory |
THAT REBELLION TO TYRANTS IS OBEDIENCE TO |
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