THE GENTLEMAN’S MAGAZINE. London, August 1776  This issue contains one of the earliest British magazine printings of the foundational American document, with the full text headed: “Declaration by the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress Assembled, July 4.” It begins with the immortal opening “When in the course of human events…” The document continues on the following page and is signed in type by John Hancock. The title and contents page, featuring a decorative engraving, directs readers to page 361 for the printing.
 Immediately following is the magazine’s measured British commentary under “Proceedings of the American Colonies,” which recapitulates the grievances cited by Congress and offers a contemporary assessment: “Whether those grievances were real or imaginary… we will not presume to decide. The ball is now struck, and time only can shew where it will rest.” 
Additional reports on the Revolutionary War appear in the same section, including the mention that Williams Franklyn (the illegitimate buy acknowledged son of Ben Franklin), who until recently had been the Governor of New Jersey, and David Mathews, the mayor of New York, had been arrested on the accusation of sharing critical information with the British Army. While not mentioned by name, history now connects their actions to "The Hickey Plot" which was aimed at kidnapping and/or assassinating General George Washington. 
The full-page engraved plate of Chepstow Castle is present.

Complete in 52 pages with the full title/contents leaf. Disbound. 5 × 8½ inches. Excellent condition. A cornerstone item for any collection of American history, presenting the seminal text alongside a vivid window into its immediate reception in Britain.
Complete in 52 pages, full title/contents page, disbound, 5 by 8 1/2 inches, great condition.