My Kinsman Major Molineux

“The people looked with most jealous scrutiny to the exercise of power, which did not emanate from themselves, and they usually rewarded the rulers with slender gratitude, for the compliances, by which, in softening their instructions from beyond the sea, they had incurred the reprehension of those who gave them.” 

In the decades preceding the American Revolution, colonists feel a growing disdain toward autocratic, overseas rule. Local governors, who are appointed by the King, are largely regarded with contempt because they are enforcers of this perceived tyranny. By “softening” the King’s orders, the governors also anger the Crown. 

“He then walked forward into the town, with as light a step, as if his day’s journey had not already exceeded thirty miles, and with as eager an eye, as if he were entering London city, instead of the little metropolis of a New England colony.” 

Though his journey has been long (by 18th-century standards), Robin feels energized by his arrival in Boston. In 1730, Boston had a population of only about 13,000, but in comparison to Robin’s country life, this makes it seem like one of the world’s major cities. This excitement sets the stage for the disappointment he soon feels. 

“The smell of tar was obvious to his nostrils, the masts of vessels pierced the moonlight above the tops of the buildings, and the numerous signs, which Robin paused to read, informed him that he was near the centre of business. But the streets were empty, the shops were closed, and lights were visible only in the second stories of a few dwelling-houses.” 

It almost seems that the city has vacated itself upon Robin’s arrival. His initial excitement has dissipated, and he now feels alone in a shuttered city. This predicament illustrates Robin’s naivete. Though he assumed he’d easily find his kinsman and be treated with respect due to his family ties, Robin struggles to find his footing and is, so far, disregarded by Bostonians. The calm streets establish a contrast to the raucous parade that will pass through later in the night, while the smell of tar portends the public shaming of Molineux.