Monody on Major Andrè. . . . To Which are Added Letters Addressed to Her by Major Andrè, in the Year 1769 by SEWARD, ANNA - 1781

Lichfield: Printed and Sold by J. Jackson, for the Author; Sold also by Robinson, Cadell and Evans, [et al.], 1781, 1781. First edition. Sabin 79477; Adams, American Controversy, 81-65a; Jackson, Romantic Poetry by Women, page 291; NCBEL II, 682. Fine copy.. 4to, recent dark red quarter morocco and marbled paper boards period style by Philip Dusel, gilt lettering. The second published work by poet and writer Anna Seward (1742-1809), a.k.a. the Swan of Lichfield, following closely her monody on Captain Cook. In her 28-page elegy on Major John Andrè (1750-1780), she laments his hanging as a spy by the contemptible Americans and in particular George Washington: "Remorseless Washington! the day shall come / Of deep repentance for this barb'rous doom! / When injur'd Andrè's memory shall inspire / A kindling Army with restless fire." Seward was personally acquainted with John Andrè, who was considered a potential suitor to her beloved adopted sister, Honora Sneyd, and the poem contains numerous autobiographical facts about him, his superior temperament, and virtuous qualities. The poem is signed in Seward's hand at the conclusion, as is the case with almost all copies.