Plain Truth; Addressed to the Inhabitants of America, Containing, Remarks on a Late Pamphlet, Entitled Common Sense. Wherein Are Shewn, that the Scheme of Independence Is Ruinous, Delusive, and Impracticable . Written By Candidus

First Dublin edition. [4],44pp. 8vo. A vigorous attack on Common Sense., written under the pseudonym of "Candidus," whose true identity is claimed by Thomas Adams to be James Chalmers, although Sabin attributes it to William Smith, and others to Charles Inglis. The preface, containing an appeal to John Dickinson, author of the celebrated Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania, shows that Thomas Paine's authorship of Common Sense remained a mystery for some months after its initial publication. This is the first Dublin edition, reprinted from a Philadelphia edition. Chalmers (c.1734-1802) was born in Scotland; he first traveled to the West Indies before reaching American in 1760, and eventually became a wealthy planter in Maryland. Although not a particularly avid Loyalist, Chalmers became increasingly political as the Revolution progressed, both as a pamphleteer and as a soldier. Although he was offered a commission in the Continental Army, he decided to accept a commission as lieutenant colonel of the First Battalion of Maryland Loyalists instead, one of the only Loyalist regiments that was "regularly organized, officered, and paid." Adams, American Controversy 76-19d; ESTC N20262; Sabin 84642 (note).…