Of Plymouth Plantation: Book 2, Chapter 20 Summary & Analysis

Bradford says that he will discuss 1639 and 1640 together, since they were a calm time in Plymouth history. Plymouth acquires new land, and there are various controversies with Massachusetts over the borders of the new towns. The Plymouth and Massachusetts courts both appoint commissioners (including Bradford himself) to find fair boundaries. In the end, the commissioners divide the new communities along the Hingam River and nearby Bound Brook. The new Plymouth land patent is taken out in Bradford’s name, extending to his heirs and associates.

The Plymouth Plantation receives a few important letters from England, requesting further goods to help Mr. Sherley pay off his own obligations to investors. The colonists are highly reluctant to do so, but ask John Winthrop’s advice. Winthrop advises the Pilgrims not to send any goods back to Sherley. The Pilgrims are still irritated at having been blamed for falling behind in their debts for so many years, when in reality, they were the victims of corruption and laziness. Furthermore, many of the original colonists have no desire to go into debt once again, since they’re now financially comfortable and getting older.