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The Trial of Colonel Despard and his Associates for High Treason and a Conspiracy &c. &c. Before Lord Chief Justice Ellenborough and the other Commissioners at the New Sessions-House in the County of Surry Great Britain 1803. Published from the London Morning Chronicle
3733866<p>New York: Printed by George F. Hopkins at Washington’s Head No. 118 Pearl Street 1803. Octavo signed in fours. 1–3 4–56 2pp. Heavily foxed removed from a nonce volume; a good sound copy.</p> <p>First American edition and reasonably scarce to commerce. Born into a military family in Queen’s County Ireland Edward Marcus Despard 1751–1803 joined the British Army as an ensign in 1766 and quickly rose through the ranks distinguishing himself as a military engineer and gaining recognition for his efforts during the capture of Fort San Juan from Spain in 1779. ODNB</p> <p>Despard’s career took a controversial turn when he became involved in revolutionary activities upon his return to Britain. He became affiliated with radical groups such as the London Corresponding Society and the United Irishmen ultimately leading to his arrest in November 1802 for allegedly plotting a coup against the government. At his trial in February 1803 Despard was found guilty of treason despite efforts to paint him as a victim of government conspiracy. He was executed on 21 February 1803 leaving behind a legacy marked by both his military service and his radical political ambitions. ibid</p> <p>Shaw & Shoemaker; 4076.</p> unknown
