Complete issue of Thomas's Massachusetts Spy or, American Oracle of Liberty from February 9, 1776, one page both sides, 9.5 x 15, with the masthead woodcut done by Paul Revere. The impressively illustrated masthead features the newspaper's title in ornate lettering, with a seated Liberty in the medallion to its left. The newspaper, typically four pages long, begins with an apology citing wartime paper shortages: "We are sorry we cannot oblige our customers with more than half a sheet this week, owing to the want of Paper." The newspaper reports on fighting in Quebec under Benedict Arnold, where he was wounded: "Col. Arnold had the misfortune to have his leg splintered by a shot, and was obliged to be carried to the hospital." An interesting report from London notes: "As our honest Tars are utterly averse to assist in butchering the brave Americans, there is a talk in the neighbourhood of the Admiralty, that 5000 Russian seamen will be hired to supply the deficiency." In very good to fine condition, with slightly ragged edges and a few small holes toward the top of the masthead.
