printed by Ben Franklin, 1756

EVANS, Lewis (c.1700-1756). Geographical, Historical, Political, Philosophical and Mechanical Essays. Number II. Philadelphia: printed [by B. Franklin and D. Hall] for the author. New York: G. Noel, 1756.

A rare tract from the press of Benjamin Franklin, being Evans' defence against the attacks made on his map in the New York Mercury. "The article in the Mercury had outlined the claims of Governor Shirley and his associates that Evans had been playing the game of the French in the delineation of the French boundaries in his famous 'Map of the Middle Colonies' and that vigorous action towards Canada would cause the French to withdraw from the Ohio country. Various other charges were made against Evans and Governor Pownall, to whom Evans had dedicated the map" (Streeter). That whole letter is printed as a preface in two pages, and the following thirty-six pages are Evans' detailed justification of his cartographical decisions. Evans 7652; Howes E-227; Miller 633; Streeter sale 1012.

Quarto (270 x 190mm). Advertisement leaf for Evans' map present at end (this and preceding leaf with marginal holes, some spotting/wear at ends, previously folded in thirds). Modern wrappers. Overall a fresh and large copy. Provenance: contemporary docketing to last page: "Lewis Evans's Controversy w. Gov. Wm. Shirley. 1756" – B. Boodley (ownership inscription to title).