I have in due course presented to Congress Your Excellency's favors of the 24th and 28th Ulto. The former was committed to the Board of War and remains unreported,(1) on the latter the House Yesterday resolved to order Count Pulaski's Legion and all the Continental Soldiers fit for duty, in and near this City to march to Princeton, as will appear more fully by the Act here inclosed.(2)

   I have the honor to be &c.

   I have been fifteen days indebted for your favor of the 11th Ulto. and six for another of the 17th.(1) Believe me, Sir, I hold myself Your Excellency's debtor in every respect, and be pleased to apply this candid Declaration to the first and every kind paragraph of the former.

   The entrance of Messrs. Kinlock and Jeffrey was certainly very irregular, altho' I am persuaded their intentions respecting these States were to add two faithful Citizens to our numbers.(2) I can vouch for the former, and must rely on the assurances of the other Gentleman. I wish General Maxwell and the Magistrates in New Jersey whom it concerns would restrain all illicit importations from New York. The Managers in that Garrison may now and then send us good goods in order the more effectually to impose counterfeits upon us.

   I have faithfully executed your Excellency's commission by delivering the message to Mons. Girard, who repeated sentiments which he had expressed of your excellency's character before he had had "the honor of receiving your visit"-we cannot say too much of this Gentleman's merits out of his own hearing.

   I do'nt Know any thing more troublesome than the conversation of those people who are eternally pestering one with recitals of their dreams This does not however aim a blow against all dreams-within this exception I trust that a dream of my own which will appear in Dunlaps next Packet (3) will be viewed by your excellency. I mention this because New Jersey is the Grand subject and you may be surprised at the presumption of any Man the Governor excepted in dreaming about New Jersey. The impressions of the visions alluded to were twice strongly made on my mind. I regarded the second as an high command and determined it my duty to reveal the whole to that part of the World for whose benefit it seemed principally designed but I have given strict orders to my Herald to conceal the dreamers name, after this intimation your Excellency-will be in that part of the Secret which I mean to go no further.

   Inclosed with this your Excellency will receive a copy of a new address from one of the Gentry at New York and of a sort of no answer which Congress thought proper to return. Look Sir at the date of the extract from Lord George Germain's letter, compare it with the dates of the late requisitions and remonstrances from Messrs Carlisle & Company on the same subject. Is it not highly probable when those papers were fabricated the letter from whence this extract was made was in the hands of that Company? Is it not therefore to be presumed they are now in possession of "a distinct and explicit ratification by the Court of Great Britain" under special orders prohibiting the "due notification to Congress" until every Stratagem shall have failed? (4) If it be true as I believe it is that the French forces are scouring the British West India Islands and that Admiral Keppell has not beat the Brest Squadron our troublesome inmates on this Continent must soon leave us in more quiet possession of our own beds.

   Adieu Dr sir &c.

   H.L.

   We are favoured with yours of the 22d Ultimo enclosing Captain Whippys receipt for £28.14.4 and Captain Stiles receipt for £96.10.0 Lawful Money which we shall transmit to the Navy Board of the Eastern Department. We are glad to hear that a Vessel offers to take in on freight the 200 Barrels flour remaining in your hands, which please to ship on board of her; and as the flour at Senepuxent is in danger of spoiling we wish you would agree for the Vessel to call in there and take the flour & barr Iron that remains at that place. Should you not be able to make this agreement we have directed the Commissary General of Purchases, to give Orders for Shipping as much Bread as the Vessel can take in.

   You will please to take Bills of Lading deliverable to the Navy Board at Boston, and desire the Board to deliver the Bread that may be shipped, to the french Admiral for the use of his fleet taking proper receipts. We doubt not but you will make the best agreement for the freight that you can, and we request you will as Soon as convenient furnish your Account in Order that a settlement may be made. We are Sir, Your very Hble servants

   Herewith you have Copies of my Letters of 5th & 17th May last which I fear did not arrive in due Course.(1) The first was sent to Messr. Norton & Bealle for a Passage from thence the latter went by the Brigt. Retaliation, Capt. Geo. Ord, intending for your Island or St Eustatia but unluckily he fell to Leeward & put into Cape Francois from whence he forwarded your Letters in a Sloop bound to St. Eustatia but I cannot learn that she ever arrived there. Many of your Letters have come to my hands since the date of my last which acknowledged those down to the 8th of April, the next in Course is dated the 12th wherein you very justly supposed my time was too much engrossed by Publick to admit proper attention to private business. This was & is really too much the case, but I have long laboured to disengage myself from the first in order to do something worth while at the last & hope the time is not very distant when I may become Master of my time.(2) Notwithstanding my constant hurry I should have entered in the Speculation you proposed of buying up the Loan Office Bills of Exch. & remitting them to you but none

   You have no doubt been advised by Messr. Norton & Bealle of the Remittances they made me for your account & I shall very soon transmit you such Account Sales as have not already been furnished & your Acct. Currt. but it will be impossible to do it by this Conveyance of which I have had but short Notice. I have constantly been picking up as many Loan Office Certificates bearing Interest payable in Bills as I could get.(4) Your Sum however is very large & as People are grown fully Sensible of their Value I don't Know whether it will be in my power to accomplish it fully. You mention in this Letter the £1000 Bills of Excha. again. If you had recurred to the Letter which carried those Bills I fancy it would clearly appear they never were intended on joint Account & as to their being charged to the Publick by you or me I did not consult what was the most beneficial mode but was the right mode & that I pursued. With respect to the Adventure per the Independance, Captn. Young, I credited you for half its cost in W. M. & Co[mpan]y's Books & continue their Interest in all my Transactions untill the 31st Decr. 1777 when that Partnership ended, except indeed in the Brigt. Retaliation which was an affair from the first entirely on my private Account. The Schooner Hope, Captn. Bentson, was also on the Houses Account & at this time instead of my being your Debtor in Martinique the Ball. is in my favour & the Debt due to you is owing entirely from the House but this makes no difference to you as I am equally engaged to see it paid. I have made two attempts to lodge Effects with you for this purpose & both have been unfortunate but more of this by & by. Mr Dorsius has never remitted me one farthing on your Account & has much to my Surprise left off writing

   The other parts of your Letter of 20th April are I think answered by what I have already wrote therefore proceed to the next which is dated the 6th May & proposes a plan for making our Loan Office Certificates negotiable in foreign Countries. In their present Form this is not practicable & as there is only one Certificate for each Sum & that payable to the Bearer you will be sensible the exportation of them would be attended with as much risque as Merchandize, it may probably surprize when I tell you, that forese[e]ing the advantages which would result to Commerce & to this Country from such Certificates as you mention, I proposed them above a Year ago in Congress when the Plan met a most Violent Opposition & was finally rejected,(6)therefore that Scheme will not do at present altho I believe it might be brought to bear some little time hence as the Sentiments of Certain Gentn. on these Subjects seem to be a good deal changed. Messr. Conyngham, Nesbitt & Co. & I have a good many Concerns together but I do not encline to form any more General Connection or Partnerships, neither is it necessary, for if I can but once get the Command of my time I have in every other respect the means of doing as much business as I chuse. The Six Bales of Linnens you consign'd to Messr Hooe & Harrisons they sold & have Accounted with me for our half the Net Proceeds. The other half they say are to Account with you for. Your Letters of 10th & 18th May only require to be acknowledged & to tell you that I forwarded the Letters to your Friends & sent word to your Mother that I was not only ready to pay the 1600 Dolls. you ordered but also to Supply her with any Money she might want & I have already answered what relates to Loan Office Certificates. Your Original Letter of the 2d June never arrived & no doubt you have been advsed by Mr Duncan of his Misfortune L in being taken. I was very sorry for your Loss in that Vessell & Cargo.

   Mrs. Morris was vexed at her disappointment in the loss of the Sugar, Coffee and Limes for Amount whereof I credit you Lrs. 218.9.6 agreable to the invoice with thanks for your Attention. I observe also that one of Mr. Grays Cases of Wine was on Board this Vessell & is lost but where are the other two Cases, I hear nothing of them. I mentioned to the Members of the Committee for Foreign Affairs your desire of returning to this Place & observe you have now mentioned it yourself. I think they have no right to object & I will try to procure you an order or remittance for the Ballance of your account. Your favr. of the 24th June is Accompanied with the Accounts relative to the Brigt. Retaliation all of which I have entered in my Books without examining them minutely, this however shall be done when I can find leisure for it & if any remarks should hereafter appear necessary you must expect to hear them as also to Correct Errors of any we discovered as to remittances I shall write of them by & by. If the Underwriters on the Brigt. Industry do not pay that loss on receipt of the Papers I forwarded there is no use in making Insurance, but I think they must have paid it long since & I count on our half as so much in your hands before this time. Mr. Braxton insists on the propriety of his Claim on you for the Double of Conynghams Bill but you must settle it yourselves being very disagreable for me to interfere. The Possessors of Money in the West Indias are become too sensible of the Value of it to expect any good bargains can be made in that way at this time of day therefore you must not expect it. I have always desired the Goods you sent on our joint Account to be sold off as fast as good prices could be obtained & believe this-is chiefly complied with. You request me to give you an answer about the Musquetts you agreed for on the Publick Account & I have long expected the Committee had done this & having withdrawn myself from those Committees I do not like to interfere. My private Opinion is that you should have taken & sent them along as the Transaction was known to them from the first & never contradicted I think they were bound in honour to fulfill your engagements. Your Letter of 6th July mentions the Applications of Mr. Limozin & Mr. Cathalan for remittances, you need not remit anything for our Houses Share as I have ordered Mr. Ross to pay them & make no doubt he has long since done so. Nothing more can I say about the Musquetts except urging the Committee again which shall be done. The Goods you consigned Mr. Crosby arrived safe, he has been here & says he is to Account with me for half the Net Proceeds when sold I desired him to make the most of them soon as he could. It was out of my power to assist him with Loan Office Certificates not having yet compleated your order to myself for that sort of Paper. Your favr. of 1st Augt. advises the Arrivel of 68 Bales of Blankets from Havre de Grace they are on Account of W.M. &

   Co[mpan]y being the remains of an old order. You shall have Credit for the Freight & Charges on them & I hope the whole Balla. due you will be paid before long for your Complaints on this Subject are very painfull to me. I fancy you will not find it so difficult to Ship these Bales to me as you seen to imagine, as they contain Blankets that are greatly wanted. I shall be very impatient to receive them & entertain hopes that you will meet Virginia Boats or other fast Sailing Vessells to receive more or less of the Bales until the whole are dispatched. But the Triplicate of your favr. of the l9th Augt. which is the latest I have received seems to confirm your Apprehensions of not meeting with Opportunitys to remit me these Goods. I hope however that your endeavours to send them will not be wanting as it would be a great disappointment not to receive them this Winter. Having now gone through your Letters & made such reply thereto as at this time appears necessary, I shall proceed to such other things as may occurr.

   When I had wrote thus farr, I discovered that the Boat by which this was intended to go had gone down & I had only time to Scribble over a few Lines of Apology which I sent after her & hope they have got on board & this must go by Captn. James Robertson in the Sloop William which I have bought in Connection with Messr. Co. Nesbitt & Co[mpan]y & we conclude to send her to Martinique consigned to you & Mr. H[ayfield] Conyngham that is the one third part to him & my 2/3rds to you. We bought this Vessell as she lay in Egg Harbour with 48 hogsheads Tobacco on Board & have sent down 12 hogsheads more to fill her. Captn Robertson goes down to Morrow & we expect the Vessell will be quite ready by the time he gets down so that he may proceed on the Voyage immediately. Mr. Nesbitt will write the Instructions which will be that you are to make the best Sale you possibly can of the Cargo supply what may be necessary for Charges & expences, pay Captn. Robertson Fifty Pounds, Ship 500 Bushells of Salt on board for the Owners Account & then Mr. Conyngham is to receive their one third of the Ballance & you are to Credit me for two thirds. Mr. Nesbitt will I suppose order his Money to be Invested in goods to come back by this Vessell but my Intention is that you Credit W.M. & Company for my two thirds of the Ballance & that you Ship back in this Sloop about one fourth part of the Bales of Blankets you have received from Mr. Limozin if so many of them still remain with you when this Vessell is there but should you have Shipped those Goods & any others have since come to your hands for my Account or for Acct of W.M. & Co[mpan]y you may Ship of such to the Value of £1000 Sterling or there abouts if so much there be, or if the Powder from St. Eustatia should be sent to you & remains with you Ship a Quantity of that; but if you have sent away all the Blankets & have not any other Goods of mine or the

   Houses then I must request you to invest halt' the Ballance you are to receive from this Sloops present Cargo in Molasses, Rum, Sugar & Coffee assorting it as you judge best & Ship it back by this Sloop consigned to me on Acct. & risque of Thos. Willing & myself. In that Case the other half will remain towards discharging the Ballance due you from Willing, Morris & Coy. & as that Ballance is entirely owing by the House I have Shipped this adventure on Acct. of T.W. & myself & shall make up other consignments in the same way & for the same purpose but then we must have something sent back in the Vessells to make up their Voyages unless the Blankets or other Goods of ours from Europe remain in your hands in that case the risque of those will be sufficient. I must entreat that Captn. Robertson may have good Dispatch for Wages & expences are very extravagant & a little delay ruins a Voyage. The Balla, of your Martinique Acct. stands on W.M. & Coy's Books at Lrs. 78,095.13.8 in your favr. & on my Books at Lrs. 1594.10.4 against you which leaves Lrs. 76,501.3.4, of this Mr. Saml. Bealle should & I suppose has remitted Livrs. 15,100 being what you charged to our Account for Expences on the Powder & which must be made good out of that Concern, this will leave Livrs. 61,401.3.4 against this will come half the Insurance on the Brigt. Industry which certainly must be recovered by Mr. Delap & I hope also, you will have to Credit me again for Lrs. 2794 charged in your Acct as my part of outstanding Debts due to the Owners of Brigt. Retaliation the principal part of which I find was owing by Mr. Prejent & I can not help thinking You have been somewhat to blame in suffering W.M. & Coy. to be so basely treated by that Gentn. You knew he had half of our Ship her Cargo & freight in his hands. You knew he was ordered to pay you the whole & I really think it was your Duty to have insisted on the payment whilst he had the Money instead of suffering him to fit out privateers with it & the more so as it was entirely owing to your recommendation that we trusted him which we did reluctantly at the time but depended on you to Insist on the payment.

   If you had done this you would have had little reason to write me in so pressing a Stile for remittances. I mention this affair that you may recollect the reasons of our being in your Debt, that it is in some degree unexpected & entirely your own fault. I do not however plead this as a reason why you should not be paid nor in excuse for delay of payment as you may suppose when you recollect that I sent the Schooner Hope for your address for the purpose of discharging part of this Debt out of her Cargo but she was unluckily taken. I also assigned you a further payment out of my half of the Retaliations last Cargo but she unluckily fell to Leeward & went into Cape Francois. There are Accidents I could neither foresee nor prevent but my Intentions are evidenced by the outsetts & from thence you

   After some delay occasioned here on the Publick applying for the Brigt. to go after some Ships that came into our Bay-We hove her down loaded her with Tobacco & she is is gone for Port L'Orient in France under the Command of Captn. Thos. Bell as Captn. Ord desired to stay on Shoar a while. She is well manned with 30 Men & I have ordered her directly back here with a Valuable & suitable Cargo on Account of the Owners & if she gets safe back a fine Voyage must be made. She is addressed to Messr. Gourlade & Moylan & the Value of this Tobacco ordered back in Goods. You shall have all Accounts relative to this Brigt. by some future Opportunity after I have time to adjust & make them out. I shall also send you an Account of the Loan Office Certificates & State of your Acct. Currt. which I cannot attempt to do at this time & indeed this Letter is spun out to such a Length that I think it time to close it. Were it not for the Embargo I would Ship you a Quantity of Flour as this Article is both scarce & dear however if any alteration takes place that will enable me to do it consistantly I shall not fail to embrace the Occasion. Should the Goods Mr. Nesbitt & myself have ordered back in the Sloop not be sufficient to fill her perhaps you may encline to Ship by her on your own Account or more Salt may be added. I hope soon to address you again & remain, Dear Sir, Your Affect. Friend & Obed. hble Servant, Robt Morris

   P.S. I beg you will send the Blankets quick as possible & by good Conveyance.

   I delivered your last letters which came by Post, to Mr. Whiteside that he might try what could be done with Salt, and I desired him to tell you how much I disapproved of Speculating in that Article. I dislike it because it tends to raise or keep Up the price of so necessary an Article & I disapproved of it at this time because I think it an Ill judged Speculation. I hope you may not have bought any and wish you to Countermand Your orders immediately.(2)

   Messrs. Purviances have a Prize Ship on their hands that will carry as it is said 600 hogsheads tobo. I beg you will ask them their lowest price for her, tell them I will buy her if they will sell her reasonably but on no other terms will I have any thing to Say to her. I can now buy such Ships in Boston for about £2000 that Money.

   I beg you to examine this Ship and give me soon as possible your full & Candid opinion of her & the price they ask for her, which will much oblige,

   Dr Sir, Your Obedt Hble Servt, Robt Morris.(3)

   As President of Congress I should acknowledge my self in Arrears for your several favors of the 5th, 10th, & 21st Ulto. but I do mean this, under that Character-those Letters remain in the possession of Committees unreported, consequently I am without commands respecting them.(1) I would not however suffer this messenger to depart without a bare intimation that your dispatches had been received nor without the latest News Papers, one will probably be of to morrows date as I shall keep open this Cover in order to convey it.

   I am with very great Esteem & Respect, sir, Your obedient & most humble servant, Henry Laurens.

   You will find inclosed an Act of Congress of the 25th Ulto. for appointing Mr. John Tenant Lieutt. Colonel in the service of the United States & Inspector of the Troops in South Carolina & Georgia to which I beg leave to refer.(1)

   I have the honor to be With very great Esteem & Regard, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble servant,

    Henry Laurens, President of Congress.

   Since my last of the 13th Ulto. I have been honored with your several favors of the 18th, 23d and 24th.(1) The first is committed to the Board of Treasury, and the last to the Board of War-a considerable sum of money was lately transmitted to the Deputy Paymaster within your circle, which I presume has reached his hands before this time and removed the inconveniencies complained of (2)

   Congress have appointed the 5th Instant for taking under consideration the state of Cloathing for the whole Army. We are informed by the Board of War that there are more than sufficient quantities for the ensuing Winters demand. I will not doubt but that effectual Measures will be taken, an immediate and proper distribution.(3)

   Inclosed Sir you will receive two Acts of Congress of the 30th Ulto.(4)

   1. for accepting the resignations of Lieut. Saml. Arnold and Ensign Elias Blanchard.

   2. for authorizing you to accept Resignations of such Officers under your Command as you shall judge proper.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   Since my last of the 27th I have had the honor of receiving and presenting to Congress Your Excellency's favor of the 23d Ulto. which is still in the hands of a Committee.(1)

   I have at present only to forward the Inclosed Act of Congress of the 30th September for Marching Count Pulaski's Legion and other Continental Soldiers in and near this City to Princeton.(2)

   I have the honor to be &c.

   A virtuous woman is never solicitous to resound her chastity, although she feels a proper degree of resentment at being called a Whore even by implication."

   Mr. Dunlap,

   I have very little faith in dreams, but whenever those unaccountable visions of the night make such strong impressions upon the sensorium as to leave whole pages of what I dreamt I had read or heard, it is my practice to commit them to writing early in the morning, and at my leisure to remark the difference between my sleeping and waking vagaries. I am an old man, and have been thought a good friend to American liberty, but too insignificant to be called on to carry a musket. I amuse myself with reading news papers, conversing with my neighbours about the times, applauding the young fellows who turn out chearfully against the common enemy, and encouraging such as appear a little timid.

   I was last night under my pipe reading your packet of the 10th of September, some parts of which led me into deep reflection, and while I was taking a general view of public affairs, the conduct of each of the United States, and of their representatives in Congress, I fell asleep.

   In this state of freedom from the cares of the world, a little fairy maid, ten thousand times handsomer than any Tory Lady in Philadelphia with her top-gallant-royal commode, stood at the foot of my oaken elbow chair, delivered me a paper containing the identical

   "FACTS."

   "The largest return of the army commanded by Major-General Sullivan in his late attempt against Rhode Island, amounted to ten thousand men; the Militia of the Eastern states who had joined him could not therefore exceed five thousand.

   "The firing of a tar barrel and the discharge of a cannon collected instantly four thousand of the New-Jersey Militia, who joined and co-operated with the army under His Excellency General Washington in his pursuit of the enemy through that State-and-N.B.-this was in the time of harvest.

   "The Eastern Volunteers, who composed about one moiety of General Sullivan's army, took occasion to return home before the General's retreat, leaving him and the other moiety of troops on the island.

   "The Jersey Militia continued with General Washington till the enemy was routed, and their assistance no longer necessary.

   "General Sullivan seems to complain a little of the Eastern Militia's going off and reducing his army to little more than the amount of those of the enemy.

   "General Washington declares his deep sense of the services of the New-Jersey Militia in opposing the enemy in their march from Philadelphia, and for the aid which they had given to harrassing and impeding their motions, so as to gain time for his troops to come up with them.

   "Congress by their resolve of the tenth ult. declare their high sense of the patriotic expeditions made by the four Eastern states on the late expedition against Rhode-Island.

   "BUT,"

   "By no resolve have Congress ever manifested any sense of the patriotic exertions of the State of New-Jersey, whose Militia have twice put to the rout nearly the whole army of the enemy in their marches through that State."

   I had finished reading this paper, and was entering upon reflections in order to reconcile the conduct of Congress from a persuasion that they never wilfully err, when my pipe dropped out of my hand; the clattering upon the floor startled and awoke me.

   Now I am awake, let me, Mr. Printer, say what I should probably have dreamt had not the breaking pipe disturbed me.

   From the sentiments which I entertain of the wisdom of Congress, I am perfectly satisfied the partiality implied in the fairy tale did not arise from a predilection in that august body to any particular

    AN OLD MAN.

   By this express your Excellency will receive the 400,000 dollars mentioned in my last.(1) Should there be a necessity for a further supply for marching the 3000 Militia to South Carolina, I could wish you would be pleased to mention it to your Delegates, and unless the Temper of Congress should suddenly change, I believe it may be procured. Congress have found it absolutely necessary to continue the embargo, until the last day of January finding it almost impossible to supply the Army and French fleet with bread unless it can be taken out of the hands of Engrossers and Monopolizers. A request is accordingly made to the States for this purpose, which the President sends on by Express. How far this may effect our State I know not, no supply of bread is however expected from that Quarter.

   As the General Assembly are to sit the next month, I could wish with my Colleagues to receive their particular Commands; we find from experience that requisitions from States come with much greater certainty of Success through the channel of their Governors than by a bare requisition from the Delegates, not having an instruction from authority to produce, I therefore hope your Excellency will be attentive to this circumstance.

   The Circumstances of the Enemy still in the Opinion of Congress seem to indicate an evacuation of their Ports on the Continent, 'tis imagined some of their Troops will go to the West Indies, some to Europe and some to Halifax or Quebec. That the French are already in possession of the Island of Dominica, we have pretty good Authority for. It is also believed that an Attack on Jamaica is also intended. We hope the French & Spaniards will cut out work enough for the

   Enemy at a distance from these States, which will at least give us a breathing spell. A large foraging party have been landed in West Jersey some time, the States have no Ally in that quarter to oppose them. The french Fleet still remain at Boston. Lord Howe is too strong for them at Sea. We do not yet hear of any new instructions received by the British Council, whether Britian will acknowledge Our independence or not seems therefore doubtful as yet.

   I take the liberty to enclose the last Newspapers, and shall be happy in receiving a line from you.

   I have the honor to be with great respect your Excellencys Mo. Ob. & very hume Servt. Cornl. Harnett

   My last Letter to Your Excellency was under the 26th Ulto. by

   Messenger Jones.

   Within the present Cover will be found two Acts of Congress viz.

   One of the 29 Septr. for enabling the States of Virginia and North Carolina to purchase certain Cannon now lying in North Carolina which had been imported on Accot. of the United States.(1)

   And one of the 2nd Inst. for extending the present Embargo on Provisions to the last day of January 1779, and for divers other purposes therein mentioned. (2)

   And inclosed Your Excellency will also find extract of a Letter from a Correspondent of mine in Camp giving a melancholly Account of a late advantage gained by the Enemy over Colonel Baylors Regiment of Horse and some of the Jersey Militia.(3)

   I have the honor to be &c., With very high Esteem And the utmost Respect, Sir, Your Excellency's Most Obedient & Very Humble Servant.

   Yours of the l9th ulto. was handed me yesterday by Colo Samuel Folsom and am Sorry that Mr Wentworth Should Say any thing to Dr Gale that Should give you Uneasiness on account of my health. About 2 or 3 weeks in September I was Something ailing with a pain in my head as I believe I wrote you, but not so as to prevent my attending constantly to Business; Since the weather has grown Cooler & I have used more Exercise I find my health pretty well Restored. The sickness in the City I am told is much abated and as the weather is now Clear & pretty Cool I hope it will brace me up So as in future to be in no Danger from the unhealthiness of this Climate while I tarry here, which I hope will not be longer than till the forepart of next month. As soon as I can Return with propriety you may Depend on it I shall, but as it Depends on a number of Circumstances I Cannot be Certain as to the time but think it very probable I shall see you sometime next month.

   Your letters have lately Come more regularly & I believe I have Received all you have wrote to me before the l9th of September & hope mine to you have & will come Safe & Seasonably to your hands. Remember my Love to my Children and to all inquiring friends. Yours, Josiah Bartlett

    Congress were informed that the enemy were endeavouring to distroy the vessels & stores at Little Egg Harbour, in the State of the Jersey's. (1)

   Since my last Address under the 26th Ulto. by Messenger Millet, I have had the honor of receiving and presenting to Congress Your

   Excellency's favor of the 31st August-this has been a week in the hands of a Committee & remains unreported therefore I am without subject for reply.(1)

   My present duty is to forward two Acts of Congress viz.(2)

   1. Of the 2nd Instant for continuing the present Embargo on Provision until the last day of January 1779 and for divers other purposes therein mentioned.

   2. An Act of this date for exchanging with Continental Currency such local Bills of Credit as have been received in the Loan Office of each State respectively.(3)

   These will be found within the present Cover.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   I thank you for your obliging letter by Dr. Johnson.(1) That gentleman has been pleased to promise that he will call for an answer, should he not, this letter must find its way by the safest hand I can meet with. There can be nothing in nature more clear than that large Magazines of bread provision at least, are indispensable in the East; and every nerve is, and has for some time been straining to accomplish this purpose. Distance and the want of safe means for water conveyance, are considerable obstructions; but a far greater than these are a pernicious set of Miscreants called Engrossers, who by the redundance of money, have sprung up in multitudes like Mushrooms in heat and moisture, and they in the midst of plenty are creating an artificial scarcity which threatens much mischief. We have sent such recommendations to the different States, as if adopted, will I hope occasion these mercenary Wretches to suffer in the way that will hurt them most. I hope the various measures we have taken, will prove, tho slow, effectual in the end. Some considerations

   My brother Arthur will be happy to hear from you, for I know he considers your Victories as contributing more essentially than anything else to place us on the ground of security and honor upon which we now stand.

   I am, with sincere esteem and affection, dear Sir your obliged friend, Richard Henry Lee

   A few days past, since the last post left us, Mr. Harvey presented me your favor of August of 30th,(1) to which this is an answer; and which I shall direct to Williamsburg upon a supposition that the Assembly has called you there by the time the letter can reach that place. The hand bill you have seen was certainly written by Mauduit, and circulated under the auspices of administration.(2) Twas intended to feel the national pulse, and to prepare its mind for the reception of events, which are now become unavoidable. I agree with you Sir that the fishery is a most important point nor will the limits of Canada be with less difficulty settled in those negotiations which precede a peace. The arrival of Adm. Byrons Squadron has given to our enemies a temporary superiority in those Seas. The sending him here was more necessary than it can be called bold. But the fleet of Great Britain is, by this detachment, rendered inferior to that of France in the Channel of England. My brother informs me from

   Paris July 4 that an engagement is every day expected between the two fleets. Later accounts say it has happened and that the English fleet was beaten. Our information from the West Indies says that Dominica is fallen, and that Jamaica and St. Kitts are in Jeopardy. I believe our enemies would willingly change their war of conquest into a war of revenge, but revenge must be postponed to safety; and I think they will rather endeavor to save what remains, than endeavor to get back what they have lost, or to gratify their malignity put Canada, Nova Scotia, the West Indies, and even G. Britain and Ireland in danger. But wisdom points to precaution, and they may attempt Boston as some think, in order to destroy the french Fleet. If they do and fail in the attempt, they will be defenceless in every part of the world by the destruction of the only army on which they can hang their hopes. I have a very high opinion of the republican principles and of the ability of Mr. Mazzei, and I think that if Mr. Maddison were sent to Genoa with him for Secretary we might have a good chance to succeed in borrowing there one of the millions, five of which are absolutely necessary to sustain, and restore our falling currency.(3) To cultivate a good understanding with the nations in the south of Europe is undoubtedly wise policy, and may produce the most profitable consequences. These affairs will come presently under the consideration of Congress, when I shall not forget the useful possession of Mr. Mazzei. Mr. Izard is the Commissioner for Tuscany, my brother William is appointed both for Vienna and Berlin. He has been sometime at the former Court, but the latter refuses to receive a Minister from us or to acknowledge yet our Independance, altho he did by his Minister most unequivocally promise my brother he would do so, as soon as France should set the example. Since this, he has quarreled with the Emperor about the Bavarian succession, and wanting the aid of Hanover, Hesse, Brunswic &c. he chooses to be well with England. The Emperor is not a little puzzled in the same way and for the same reasons. Tis a matter, not of the greatest moment to us at present, since the war between the two Giants will swallow up in their respective vortices the lesser Tyrants and thus prevent him of England from bringing German Auxiliaries to distress our Alliance. There is nothing that threatens so much injury to our cause at present as the evil operations of Engrossers. If something decisive is not quickly done by the Legislatures to stop the progress of Engrossing, and to make these Miscreants deliver up their ill gotten collections, the American Army must disband, and the fleet of our Allies remain in Boston Harbor.(4) I know the root of this evil is in the redundance of money, but until the latter can be reduced some measures are indispensable, to be taken with the Engrossers. You will see the expedients devised by us. A more radical cure will follow shortly, in a proposition of Finance now under consideration. I am

    Richard Henry Lee

   P.S. Colo. Baylor, with a Corps of 60 light Dragoons, was lately surprised in the Jerseys, between Hackensack and the North River-Himself made prisoner, and his party chiefly put to the Bayonet, it is said, in cold blood.

   I hope the measures you have taken will be effectual to the purpose of reenlisting the Army because it is an object of great importance; and I readily admit the propriety of first trying those methods which promise fewest ill consequences. Danger will only arise from pressing such too far, and urging the experiment too long. I very much fear Sir, that the knowledge of depreciation has reached the most uninformed, and therefore, that every evil which can, will happen to us from this cause. But I am not without hope that such measures will be adopted as may, before it is too late, restore our currencey to its proper value.(1)

   It is indeed no easy matter to judge of the designs of the enemy. They have created to themselves a great choice of difficulties. I

   Mr. Custis had quitted this City before your letter came to hand, and as he is gone to the Army, I have inclosed the letter in this.

   I am, with much esteem and regard dear Sir your most obedient and very humble servant, Richard Henry Lee

   Your Execllency's Favour of the 25th of Septr. I recd. Yesterday.(1) I could have wished to have had any tollerable Estimate of the Loss sustained at Bedford. The Stock taken off at the Vineyard I have heard was very considerable especially in Sheep.

   The Enemy are now foraging in the Jerseys. Was it not that our Enemies get well provided thereby, it would be some Consolation, that they were plundering amongst the Tories-Their very good Friends. A considerable Number of Our Light Horse were surprised in their Quarters in the Jerseys-And it is said many were put to Death most barbarously after they had surrendered themselves. The Particulars are not yet come to Hand. The Facts if established, will come under serious Consideration of Congress. We are just now alarmed with the Appearance of about twenty sail of the Enemy off Little Egg Harbour, which it is supposed the Enemy mean to Pillage

   With Respect to the Embargo in Connecticut upon Wheat &c it much surprises me. 1 have spoken to Mr. Sheurman the only Connecticut Delegate now here, and a very worthy Character; and he promises me he will immediately write Home upon the Subject. Congress are doing every Thing in their Power to provide, or procure the sending of Wheat &c into the Eastern States; and are calling loudly upon the Southern States to make Examples of monopolizers of Provision. At the same Time it is expected that the Eastern States will not suffer Their own People to buy the Provision up in large Quantities, and that no Person will be allowed to hold, or purchase more for himself than may be necessary for his Family Consumption-And that Laws be immediately provided agt. such a Practice, and that those Laws extend to Rum b Spirits, & every other Article of Life, or that may be wanted for the Army. Extortioners, & monopolizers must have a twisted Bitt put into their rapacious Mouths. This is doing to the Southward-I say again it is expected you foll[ow] the Examples. I am yr. Excelly's very humble Serv,

    Hy Marchant

   Acknowledgements of Friendship tho late are never unseasonable. I therefore set down to thank you for your Favour which I received in August last. Your Partiality as well as that of many others has form'd Views & Expectations for me which a Sense of my own Incapacity & a Knowledge of the Envy & Anxiety attending Offices of an elevated Kind would have totally forbid. My own Wishes were for private Life but I have been induced to give them up from a very full Conviction that our whole Strength & Union is necessary to oppose the Designs of those who are equally Enemies to us & the Happiness of America as founded on its Liberty & Independance. I have therefore given myself up to the publick at least for a Time, & I

   After fighting the open Enemies of our Country, I have now devoted my poor Talents to its Service in pleading its Cause against those Wretches who have secretly been endeavring to ruin it.(1) I have only Time to sum up my best Wishes for your Health & Happiness & assure you that I am with a very sincere Regard, Dear Sir, Your Affect. & Obed. Hbble. Serv. Jos. Reed

    After various applications to the Members of the Committee to meet, wch. they were prevented from doing by the multiplicity of business on their hands in other Committees this day, Met

    absent

   Francis Lewis R. H. Lee

   Robert Morris Thos. McKean

    Bartlett who being very desirous to promote the settlement of these Accts. agree immediately to hire, a capable Clerk to enter on the business if such a one can be found, & Mr. Morris is desired to agree with him on the best terms in his power.(1)

    [Q.] Are you sure that the public had any share in those two vessels wch. were purchased in the Mediterranean?

   [A.] I apprehended at the time that they had and my reason for apprehending was that the captain had a continental Commission, I thought they were on the same footing as those fitted out at Dunkirk.

   [Q.] Were you any wise concerned in equipping Capt. Cunningham from Dunkirk?

   [A.] I was no ways concerned in the equipmt. I was sent by Mr. Franklin & Mr. Deane to facil[it]ate the departure of that vessel from the port.

   [Q.] Was Capt. Cunninghams vessel fitted at Dunkirk more than once?

   [A.] Capt. C. commanded two vessels from that port, one a Lugger, the other a cutter.

   [Q.] Were they fitted at the same time?

   [A.] At different times.

   [Q.] Were they or either of them public or private property?

   [A.] I apprehended that each of them were part public and part private but I do not certainly know.

   [Q.] When you were sent to dispatch these vessels did you consider yourself as acting for the public or for private persons?

   [A.] Every service I performed for the commissioners I considered as done for the public, and so I considered in this instance.

   [Q.].What reason had you to consider these vessels as part private property? .

   [A.] From conversations I had at the time particularly with Mr. Hodge I had reason to apprehend he was concerned.

   [Q.] Had you reason to suppose that Mr. Deane was concerned or any of the Commrs?

   [A.] I did apprehend at that time that Mr. Deane was concerned in the first equipment.

   [Q.] What reasons induced you to apprehend that Mr. Deane was concerned in the first equipmt?

   
Image missing

   [A.] I cannot recollect the reasons that induced that belief but I know that I did at the time apprehend he was concerned.

   [Q.] At what time was the first equipment made, What year & wt. month?

   [A.] At present I cannot precisely recollect. I think it was in the spring 1777. The capture of the Harwich packet will nearly point out the time of the sailing.

   [Q.] Do you know if any and what instructions were given to Capt Cunningham respecting that cruise?

   [A.] I think there were instructions given but I cannot be particular what those instructions were.

   [Q.] Do you recollect whether those vessels or either of them were ordered to cruise on the coast of England?

   [A.] I do not know particularly the instructions given to the capt of the two vessels. I believe the object of the cruise was for one of the Harwich packets.(2)

   [Q.] Was this equipmt. at Dunkirk made with or w[ithou]t the knowledge of the french Ministry?

   [A.] I cannot answer as to the knowledge of the french Ministry.

   [Q.] Did you ever hear that the french Ministry objected to it?

   [A.] I know they gave proofs that it did not appear to be agreeable, for the capt was imprisoned upon his return to Dunkirk.

   [Q.] Did you hear that the french Ministry objected previous to the sailing?

   [A.] I do not know that they knew of the first vessel previous to her sailing, therefore they could not object to the equipmt.

   [Q.] Did you ever hear that the french Ministry offered to pay the expence of equipping those vessels or either of them to prevent their sailing?

   [A.] Of the first vessel I never heard that they did, of the Second I heard after she had sailed that they had given orders to pay the expence to prevent her sailing.

   [Q.] Did you understand that much diligence was used to push these vessels or either of them out of Dunkirk to prevent the effect of the Measures the fr. Ministry had taken to stop their sailing?

   [A.] With respect to the last I believe all possible diligence was used to Accelerate her departure to prevent measures from being taken by the Ministry to stop her sailing.

   [Q.] Did you ever see or hear of a letter or letters written by the Count de Vergennes to Mr. Grand or the Commrs. complaining of this measure?

   [A.] I have heard that there was such a letter but I do not know whether to Mr. Grand or the Comrs.

   [Q.] Do you know whether the Comrs. had recd. any order from

   Congress or the Secret Comee relative to the fitting out of these two vessels?

   [A.] I do not know whether they had rcd. orders relative to the fitting out of these two vessels.

   [Q.] Did you ever hear that they had?

   [A.] I never heard that they had recd. orders to fit out these two vessels particularly. I heard that they had general orders to fit out vessels.

   [Q.] Do you Mean vessels of force to cruise agt. the enemy?

   [A.] I do; because they recd. Continental commissions for the captains.(3)

    It is the desire of Congress that you order all the Officers belonging to Count Pulaski's legion & who are now in or near Philadelphia to repair with all possible expedition to & join their legion and that you make out the commissions and send them by express after them. Chas. Thomson secy.

   I receivd your favor of the 23d of Septr. by yesterdays Post. You tell me that Boston is become a new City, and explain your self by mentioning the exceeding Gayety of Appearance there I would fain hope this is confind to Strangers. Luxury & Extravagance are in my opinion totally destructive of those Virtues which are necessary for the Preservation of the Liberty and Happiness of the People. Is it true that the Review of the Boston Militia was closd with an expensive Entertainment? If it was, and the Example is followed by the Country, I hope I shall be excusd when I venture to pledge myself, that the Militia of that State will never be put on such a Footing as to become formidable to its Enemies. I am told that such a Practice is contrary to the Letter of the Militia Act. I trust that I was misinformd when I was told that it was countenanced by those who of all Men ought pay the most sacred Regard to the Law. Are we arrivd to such a Pitch of Levity & Dissipation as that the Idea of feasting shall extinguish every Spark of publick Virtue, and frustrate the Design of the most noble and useful Institution. I hope not. Shall we not again see that Sobriety of Manners, that Temperance, Frugality, Fortitude, and other manly Virtues wch were once the Glory and Strength of my much lov'd native Town. Heaven grant it speedily! Adieu.

   By the vote of the Legislature of our State of the l9th of August last, I find it will Require two Delegates to Represent the State after the first of November next, the reason of which I suppose was that they Expected (as I Did) that the Confederation would be Ratified by all the States so as to take place at that time, But as neither Jersey, Delaware nor Maryland have yet agreed to it, and as we have been informed within a few Days that the Legislature of Maryland is adjourned to December, it is now Certain it Cannot take place So Soon as was Expected and there is a probability at least that it may not take place for a Considerable time to Come. I would therefore Earnestly Recommend it to a General Court as Soon as they meet, to pass a vote authorising any one of their Delegates to Represent the State in Congress until the Confederation is Ratified by all the

   States; and that the vote may be forwarded to your Delegates here as Soon as possible. The utillity (if not necessity) of Such a vote is So obvious that I need not Say anything in favor of it, and only Request that it may be attended to.(1)

   Your Letter to the President of the Congress of the 18th of September, was handed me by Colo Samuel Folsom who arrived here the 4th Inst. and was yesterday Read in Congress.(2) I have Obtained a Grant for the State of One Hundred & fifty Thousand Dollars to be sent you out of the Treasury here; also an order on the Loan Office in New Hampshire for fifty Thousand Dollars and am in hopes I shall procure the money So as to Dispatch Colo Folsom in a few Days.(3)

   Your letter to me by Col. Folsom I have also Received.

   You will find in the inclosed newspaper an additional act of Congress Relative to wounded & Disabled officers & Soldiers.(4)

   I am Sir with the greatest Respect your most obedient Servant, Josiah Bartlett

   You will be good enough, my dear Sir, to excuse this Letter. There are but few Men indeed with whom I could wish to be thus candid. It appears to me that Congress will shortly be dissolved. If the large Emissions of Money, and visionary Expeditions do not bring forth our destruction, I greatly fear that Party will complete the matter. Congress exhibit not more than two or three Members actuated by Patriotism. Great questions are carried every day in favor of the East-ward, and to the prejudice of the Southern States. Great questions are now upon the Carpet and if determined in the affirmative will do excessive Damage to Virginia and Maryland particularly. At present we are under secrecy-perhaps in a little time I shall think myself obligated to quit Congress; I will not sit in a house whose proceedings I cannot assent to with honor, nor is it in my

   I am dear sir, your obdt humble servant, C. Griffin

   I have lately had the honor of receiving and presenting to Congress many of your Letters, but I have nothing in Command respecting you except the inclosed Resolutions of the 25th of September, directing you to repair immediately to General Washington's Head Quarters and Major General Lincoln to take the Command in the Southern Department.(1)

   I have the honor to be &c.

   I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency on the 1st Instant.

   Inclosed is a Resolve of Congress requesting Your Excellency to obtain information of the Enemys' treatment of the late Lieutenant Colonel Baylor and his Party who were cut off in New Jersey.(1) It has been represented that the unhappy Colonel, several of his Officers, and many of his Troops were Bayonetted in cold blood, should this be proved, I apprehend suitable retaliation will immediately follow a refusal of satisfaction.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   I beg leave to refer to my last private of the 26th. Ulto by Millet. This will be delivered by Lieut. Colonel Tenant who is ordered by Congress to Act as Inspector of the Troops of the United States in South Carolina and Georgia. This Gentleman has served as a Volunteer in the grand Army with the highest reputation. South Carolina and Georgia will in Mr. Tenant receive the acquisition of an excellent Officer, and will in turn experience in him a valuable Citizen-his Conduct and manners will speak more in his favor than I can express.

   I shall do myself the honor of inclosing with this several Papers of Intelligence which with the information Your Excellency will receive from Mr Tenant and such additions as no doubt will be made by my Colleagues will put Your Excellency in possession of all our present knowledge of public Affairs. In a Letter which I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency the 5th Instant as President of Congress is contained a late Act for continuing the present Embargo, and for preventing engrossing Provision. I shall not trouble you Sir with my opinions on the several branches of this Act but barely remark that when the power of Congress to lay an Embargo was made a question and the voices of each Member called upon-there appeared fourteen in the negative, twelve affirmative-six States affirmative, five negative.(1) Of these six affirmatives, there were three States represented by Units. I am persuaded my Countrymen will Act on this great occasion as shall appear to be for the general good of these United States. If I may offer my sentiments Congress is not

   Inclosed Your Excellency will receive three Bills of Exchange particularized below, amounting to 50,000 Dollars a Draught out of the public Treasury here at the request of the Delegates for the use of South Carolina on Account of her general demand upon the United States (2) The funds in the Treasury are so very low and the daily demands on them so enormous we could not venture to ask for a larger sum. The inclosed Note from Monsr. Gérard No 1 I recommend to Your Excellencys particular attention.(3) Mr. Tenant will deliver a Copy of General Lee's tryal so far as the Press is gone-

    Congress will determine hereon in a few days.

    Bills-Don Juan de Miralles 28th Septr 1778 on Danl.

   Hall and Co. at ten days sight 40,500

   Brown Platt and Russel 9th July 1778 on

   Maurice Simons at ten days sight 7,500

    John Head 26th June 1778 on Alexr. Rose

    Esquire at ten days sight 2,000

    Dollars 50,000

   I have the Honor to be, With great Esteem & Respect &c.

    H.L.

   [P.S.] Schedule of Papers inclosed viz.

   No. 1. Monsr. Gérard on Carolinas raising Men in France.

   No. 2. Extract of a Letter from A Lee June 1st, 1778.

   No. 3. Sir H. Clinton's Letter to Congress with the Secys. Answer 23d Septr. 1778.

   No. 4. Govr. Livingstons Letter to the Prest. 28th Septr.

   No. 5. Copy of a Letter from Genl Washington to the President 29th Septr.

   No. 6. Extract of a Letter from a Gentleman in Camp 29 Septr.

   It is reported that the State of South Carolina in sending some Gentlemen to France has instructed them 1st to purchase a certain number of Vessels, 2nd to raise a certain number of troops to be in the pay and immediate service of that State.

   It is apprehended that this step executed by a single State in contradiction with the Plan of Confederation could hurt in Europe the Idea of the uniformity of the Governments to rely on Congress for the exertion and application of the common forces and it might be misunderstood or misrepresented to the prejudice of the confidence and the consideration Congress has so justly acquired.

   If the concern for all what is conducible to the honor and Credit of the United States may apologize for a reflection offered on that subject, I should venture to say that the best method to prevent any inconveniences is perhaps to send immediate Orders to the Minister of the United States in France, to countenance the demand of South Carolina.

   Monsr. Girard having received information as above communicated his sentiments I think it improper to apply to Congress before

   I am informed of the facts from Authority in South Carolina.(1) I shall nevertheless consult my Colleagues, and Act by their advice. Monsr. Girard treats the subject with great seriousness.

    Henry Laurens

   I find by Mr. Rowes letters of the 24th Ultimo he was Supplying the Chevr. la Borda with money agreable to your orders and had drawn upon me for 32,000 Dollars which Shall be duly honored, he adds that the entire Sum of 200,000 Dollars you had directed would be wanted, and he Should go on Supplying money as fast as he was able. The enclosed letter for Jno. Langdon Esqr.(2) directs that he Should pay to your order for my accot. £4,470.9.2l/2 Lawful which you will please to receive and I Shall charge your accot. for the Same. Capt Roche & Mr. Bromfield are here but nothing conclusive as yet determin'd on, they Expect if the Effects on hand are deliver'd up here their commissions as originally Stipulated Should be made good to them in France, there is both justice & reason in this Claim & yet if complied with in the Extent, it will involve Some hardships on the concern, but as it appears by Mr. Chaumont's letter to Capt Roche that he has made Insurance on the returns as well those that are, as those that are not gone, Mr. Deane & myself Seem to join Capt. Roche & Mr. Bromfield in opinion that it is best to prosecute the original design and Ship the tobacco to France. I believe this will be our conclusion especially as there is a Ship for Sale at Baltimore that will carry nearly the whole, and I have wrote for information

   A few days Since, arrived here a little Brigt called The Le Jeune Achilles de Bordeaux, Capt. Augt Picon from Bordeaux with 99 pipes of Salt Shipped by Messrs. Racule de Basmarin Raimbeaux & Compe. to your address, on accot & risque or by order of Mr. Chaumonts, as I have not any orders for selling this Salt it is my present design to Store it, altho' I think a good price might now be obtained. The quantity However is but small and if it should be wanted here for the purposes of Salting provisions you would not be well pleased to have to buy again, however I will enquire what can be got and consider what is best to be done and be assured that my determination will be intended for the best, let them turn out as they may. I will procure this little Vessell a freight of tobacco back and in all other of your affairs do what Shall appear right to be done during your absence. Mrs. Morris joins me in best compliments & wishes for your health & happiness and I remain, Dr Sir, your Sincere Friend & obedt hble Servt. R.M.

   I have been absent about 6 weeks on the business of arranging the Army, which, so far as it is accomplished, has occasioned less dissatisfaction than I feared it would. Some good Officers are excluded for want of room, which are recommended to Congress for such notice and provision as shall be thought reasonable. Maj. Wells did not apply untill the arrangement of the Connecticut officers was made, so that he could not be admitted. It is customary in other States, not to fill the places of Officers in captivity, but to promote them according to their rank as if present. I shall take the first opportunity to transmit to Your Excellency a copy of the arrangement of the Connecticut Officers.

   I returned here last Wednesday evening, and Maj. Adams being unwell-set out to go home last Saturday.

   Col. Dyer and Mr Elsworth are not yet arrived; I hope they are on their way, for it is of importance to have a full representation.

   Business goes on slow. The important matters of the currency,

   There is a report lately made on the subject of Finance not acted upon, which I think will not be an adequate remedy for the evils. I think a reasonable time ought to be fixed for sinking all the outstanding bills, and sufficient funds by annual taxes provided for bringing them in. That would fix their credit by letting the possessors know when and how they are to be redeemed, and would in some good measure do justice to the public as the bills would be collected in at about the same value they were issued out. The first part of the time the people would obtain them at a cheap rate to pay their taxes, and they would gradually appreciate till restored to their original value.

   But some provision ought to be immediately made for doing justice to creditors in payment of old debts and salaries stated in lawful money. The law making the bills a tender when the same nominal sum was of equal value to lawful money was reasonable and necessary, but now is become the source of great injustice. I think Lawful money should be the standard, but an equivalent in bills should be accepted in payment. The Committee of Commerce do make a discount in payment of sterling debts. I hope public faith will be inviolably observed in the redemption of the bills, at their full value, at the period fixed for that purpose; but that will not prevent their depreciation in currency in the mean time while so great a quantity is in circulation. We received accounts yesterday that a number of the enemy's Ships were seen standing in toward Egg Harbour, supposed with intent to destroy the shipping and stores there. Some Continental troops, and New Jersey militia are sent to oppose them. What their intentions are concerning leaving this country we can't yet learn. Congress have thought it necessary to continue the Embargo on provisions to the last of Jan. next. Our friends at the eastward, especially at Rhode Island, think it hard that they are deprived of getting provisions from Connecticut by the land Embargo.

   I am with great respect, &c. Roger Sherman.

   I have had the honor this Morning of receiving and presenting to Congress your favor of the present date. The Order of the House was, "to lie on the table" until the Examination of Mr. Carmichael shall be finished.(1)

   I am with great Respect, Sir &c.

   Congress having received further information respecting the number of survivors of the late Colonel Baylor's Party have judged it necessary to repeal their Act of the 6th Instant for an immediate exchange, and inclosed you will find an Act of Yesterday's date for that purpose to which I beg leave to refer you,(1) And remain with great Esteem and Regard, Sir &c.

   I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency the 2nd Instant by Ross, since which Your Excellency's several favors of the 29th Ulto. & 3d Inst. with the several Papers refer'd to have been duly presented to Congress-the former is committed to the Board of War.(1) I have communicated the Extract from Count d'Estaing's letter to Monsr. Girard.(2) Congress have no objection to granting leave of absence to the Marquis of Vienne.(3) I have at present only to transmit an Act of Congress of the 2nd Instant for continuing the present Embargo for preventing engrossing provisions, and for other purposes therein mentioned, which Act will accompany this.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   Mr. Dodd arrived luckily last Evening with your verbal Orders respecting the Horse which Mr. Banister persuaded me to take Care of for you. It still continues in fine Order. Upon knowing your Mind as to the Beast's being ridden by any Person whatever, I determined that my Encouragement to Mr. Thaxter should not totally fail, wherefore I ordered my Horse to be prepared for him, but Congress has made other Provision. I hope the Beast will reach you in Flesh, as Mr. Banister's Heart was set on that Circumstance. I am sure of Mr. Dodd's Care if he conveys it to Boston. If he should not, I wish your Orders in Writing tho' you seem to have a sort of Antipathy to the Pen now, in Consequence of your long Drudgery in this Quarter. How, otherwise, is it that you do not deign to say by one Line that you have recd. any one of 8 Enclosures which are minuted in my Almanac prior to the 13th. of Sepr.(1) I should have been glad to know

   I do not find that this State will consent to the Exportation of any Flour on private Account. I mention this because I think 1 have asked you in a former Letter to befriend Mrs. L. if any of the Flour sent by the Commissy. should be spared to individuals. I shall aim to send a few Barrels from Maryland where it is permitted to export to the Eastern States. Great Disgust was taken here at the Preference which Congress recommended to be given to such Vessels as had Certificates from the executive Powers of the eastern States. One of those Vessels was sold for a foreign Voyage at Baltimore tho' the Certificate seemed to imply an Obligation, on obtaining the necessary Permits, to return with Flour to the suffering eastern People: And such permits were granted in Maryland.

   I hope your Family are in perfect Health. I think Boston can have no Fears of a Seige the coming Winter, tho we are not yet absolutely sure of the intended Movements of our Enemies.

   I am Sir your humble servt. James Lovell

   This will be Sent to you by Colo Folsom by whom I Recd yours of the l9th ulto. I wrote you the 5th Inst. by the post but it is likely you may receive this before that Comes to your hand for I find my letters to you by the post are near a month old when you Receive them for the most part. I Believe I Shall Set out for home the first Week in next month and hope to See you by the 20th. But if General Whipple Should come here alone I may be Detained here till the 15th or 20th of the month but I am Determined to Return home as soon as I Can with propriety after the month of November comes in.(1)

   The weather here is now uncommonly warm for the Season but it is not likely it will hold So long. I am in pretty good health. Charles Chace is well & is at work at his trade and talks he is willing to tarry here over the winter. I make no Doubt you will take Care to order some wood be procured for you by Carting before winter

   Sets in, and if necessary hire David Sanborn to tarry with you till my Return in order to prepare for winter.

   It is very probable I Shall not write to you more than twice more from this City.

   I have no news to Send you. Remember me to all Enquiring friends & particularly to David Sanborn. Remember my Love to all the Children and accept for the Same your Self from yours,

    Josiah Bartlett

   [P.S.] I have sent a small pamphlet by Colo Folsom.

   I have procured One Hundred and fifty Thousand Dollars in Bills, and an order on the Loan Officer in Newhampshire for fifty Thousand Dollars, and now Send them according to your orders by Colo Samuel Folsom who will Deliver you this, and wish them all Safe to hand.(1)

   I wrote you the 26th ulto informing what had been Done Relative to the Towns who Endeavored to go off to Vermont. And the 6th Inst. Requesting the State to authorise any one of their Delegates to represent the State in Congress till the Confederation is Ratified by all these States; those letters I Sent by the post & hope they will Come Safe & Seasonably to your hands.

   I am with great Respect, Your most obedient Servant,

    Josiah Bartlett

   Since my last Letter under the 13th Ulto. I have had the honor of presenting in due course to Congress, your several favors of the 5th, 21st, & 30th of the past Month,(1) that of the 21st is committed to a special Committee, of the 30th to the Board of War & remain unreported.

   Capt. Gilbert of Massachusets & Capt. Holmes of New Hamshire having informed me that during their late Captivity at New York several Officers of the Convention troops had come into that City upon parole, some on furloughs for no less than six Months, obtained by such Officers from the Commissary of Prisoners or from some other person pretending to have authority at Boston & that Gold had been paid in Boston for these illicit permits; Congress have directed me to give you this intimation, & to request you will immediately make a strict enquiry into the fact, that you will also make a return of all the Convention Troops under your charge, Officers & Men, & account for absentees.(2)

   I have the honor to be, With great Esteem & Respect, Sir, Your most obedient, humble servant.

    Henry Laurens.

    President of Congress.

   An accident which has very seldom happened to me in the course of thirty Years business, has deprived me of the honor of making an earlier & puts it out of my power even now of making a more proper acknowledgement of three of Your Excellency's favors which I remember to have been indebted for antecedent to the receipt of this of the 3d Inst. which now lies before me.(1) Those, in removing my Desks & their Contents from one part of the House to a more convenient, I have mislaid among my private Papers, & after as much

   I recollect however & shall never forget a new obligation which in one of them Your Excellency was pleased to lay on me by a very kind notice of my Sons behavior at Rhode Island & that you had returned the Gold which I sent to Head Quarters by Jones (2) & also the Letters of Governor Johnstone, Mr. Oswald & Mr Manning.(3) In the present circumstances of Great Britain, rendered deplorable by the waste of another Campaign on this Continent, by the loss of Dominique in the West Indies & of a great Marine battle at her own door, it is exceedingly difficult to determine what will be her next step, although I do not think it is, to see the only measures remaining for her salvation. With respect to South Carolina, I cannot yet treat the Idea of an attack as altogether chimerical. I am well warranted to say the British Administration held that State & Georgia in reserve, for a stroke of necessity which might at any time be made with Success & they well know the immense value of those States & great things may be done by drawing their forces to one point-they may have indeed stayed a day too late. Be that as it will, I have fully advertised my Countrymen, & if the alarm shall prove to have been unnecessarily sounded, their intermediate exertions towards a defence will do them no real injury.

   Congress have ordered the proceedings of the Court Martial on Major Genl. St. Clair to be printed,(4) & have appointed Friday the 16th for considering & determining on those of the Court on Major Genl. Lee.

   I have nothing further to offer at present Sir, but the repeated assurances of being with the highest sense of Respect & Obligation, Your Excellency's Most obedient & Most humble servant,

    Henry Laurens.

   The Committee are informed that it has been the practice among your Debutys in the Eastern States to Exchange Prisoners made by the French Fleet without proper Authority.

   It is the desire of the Committee that you will give strict Orders forbiding this practice on Any Account unless when Ordered by the Admiral or Minister of France.(1) I am sir, Your hble servant,

    John Brown secy

   In the inclosed News paper you will see certain Queries, calculated to impress on the Minds of the People the Idea of Dr Lee's having held a criminal Correspondence with a Person known to be at the same Time in the Service and under the Direction of the British Ministry.(1) I hope it will not be in the Power of this Querist to do essential Injury to so eminent a Patriot; who took the earliest and most decisive Part in opposition to the Measures of the British Court, and whose invariable Attachment to the Liberties of our Country, never was, and I think cannot be justly suspected. Yet it may be necessary to guard against it; for I plainly tho silently saw when I was last in Boston a malevolent Disposition towards Dr Lee, in a certain Gentleman, who, till he is better known, will have a great Influence in the Massachusetts State. The Instance you may recollect, as you were knowing to it in the Time of it. I then supposed it to proceed from his having strongly attachd himself, and for a Length of Time to a Circle of Men; and imbibd their Prejudices, who are far remote from the political Connections of Dr Lee, and who differ widely from them in the Adoption of publick Measures regarding either Politicks or Morals. You may remember that some time ago in a letter I informed you, I should have much to say to you about Mr D,(2) of whom I had long formed my opinion, and had not seen Reason to alter it. I have hitherto said Nothing to you about him; because I knew it would lead me to Subjects of great Delicacy, which by being exposd to the Enemy as they would if my Letters should fall into their hands, might disgrace or otherwise be prejudicial to our publick Affairs. This Caution prevents my communicating to you many things on which I wish to unburthen my Mind. Mr D was originally taken up by a secret Committee of Congress appointed to procure from France the necessary Supplys for carrying on the war: By them he was sent to that Country in the Character of a mere Merchant. About that Time another Committee was appointed

   Our Affairs even in France wore a gloomy Aspect during the last year, until they receivd the News of our Army at the Northward being completely victorious. This was the decisive Language which commanded our Success in the Cabinet of France. To this we are indebted for the Acknowledgment of our Independence, the Treaty and the French Fleet. Mr D is complimented with having procurd this Fleet, and his "spirited Exertions" like those of other great Men, have been passd off in the News Papers. Unthinking Men may be amusd with a Golden Snuff Box &c &c; after all they are mere Things of Course, especially in the Honey Moon of National Matrimony.

   Since Mr D's return, as well as before, there have been suggestions of his Misconduct in France, and among other Things of his misapplication of publick Moneys. I cannot say whether these Suggestions

   I have written this Letter in Confidence and shall continue the Subject when I can find Leisure.

   Your last was dated the 3d of Septr. Adieu.

   Congress having foreign Affairs now under Consideration, I shall not write to you on that Subject, more especially as it is quite uncertain how the present Papers will be conveyed to you. Nor shall I pretend to unravel to you the Designs of the Enemy. They are very inscrutable: The Printers know as much as I do about them, therefore I send a few of the last Prints of Dunlap, which with the Boston

   Papers must decide you in Opinion. Your affectionate Friend, and very humb. Servt. James Lovell

   12. Monday. A very cool day. I met the medical Committee.(1) Eastern post not come in.

   I duly receiv'd and presented to Congress your letter of the 25th Ulto. It was immediately committed to a select Committee and I am sorry to say it remains unreported-the several subjects contained in it are important, and, as far as I can judge the House is perfectly satisfied with your conduct. You will attribute the present delay to an unavoidable necessity arising from a multiplicity of business and be assur'd Sir, you shall hear from me immediately upon my receiving directions from Congress.(1)

   I Am with great Respect & Regard &c.(2)

    I thank you for your very obliging Letter of the 31st Ulto. which reached me no sooner than five days ago.(1)

   I am in great hopes your arrangement for the Inspection will be a subject for the consideration of Congress this very Morning; it is so intended, but if it shall happen otherwise, ascribe the delay to unavoidable necessity for attending to some other business, or to any cause in preference to a disregard for you in Congress, where I perceive with great pleasure you are held in the highest Esteem.(2)

   A look into the remaining parts of your Letter, would shock a feeble mind, yours & mine will from the melancholy description of our Military affairs receive no more than a proper degree of alarm, but alas, what can you & I do? What we alone cannot do, we must hope will be soon supplied by those whose duty & Interests it is to receive proper impressions from the warning which I shall under your sanction again & again repeat in their Ears.

   I have desired Colo. John Laurens to consult you Sir, on some points respecting the late Massacre of Colo. Baylor's party. I am afraid indeed that unfortunate Gentleman was off his guard, but does his error warrant the Butchery which we are told the Cruel English exercised upon himself & his party? If this shall be proved ought we to suffer their guilt to pass with impunity? When & in what manner should retaliation be made? The Watch points to 9 oClock. I must fly to my post. Adieu Dear Baron. Be assured I continue in the most respectful & sincere attachment, Sir, Your obedient & most humble servant, Henry Laurens.

   The Minister of France having applied to the Marine Committee for a Pilot to bring the frigate Chimere above the Chiveaux de Frize, for the double purpose of rendering the Ship safe from the enterprises of the enemy, and that she may be so situated as to cover

   I have the honor to be Sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Richard Henry Lee, Chairman M. Committee

    Resolved-That Congress have, & of Right ought to have a Power to dismiss any Officer from their Service whenever they shall deem his Continuance therein incompatible with the publick Interests & that this Right being expressed on the Face of the Commission which is granted during the Pleasure of Congress excludes any reasonable Complaint of Injustice & Hardship whenever this Right is exercised.

   The Sollicitations of a great Number of my worthy, tho partial Countrymen have procured my Consent to serve them in the Council, or Assembly as they may chuse. But as this Choice cannot properly be made, while I remain a Delegate in Congress, I now beg Leave to resign that Seat, leaving it to the Judgment of the honourable Board to take such Notice thereof as they may think proper. And I also beg Leave to add that upon this Occasion, I have no other View but to put myself into such a Situation, as to be employed by my Country in that Line where it shall deem me most useful.(1) With great Respect I remain, Sir, Your Most Obed & very Hbble Serv.

    Jos. Reed

   I had the honor of addressing you the 10th Instant by Dodd since which I have received and presented to Congress Your favor of the 30th Ultimo which was committed to the Board of War.(1)

   I now transmit within the present Inclosure an Act of Congress of Yesterdays date strictly enjoining all Officers in the Army to see that the good and wholesome Rules for the Preservation of Morals among the Soldiers be duly and punctually observed.(2)

   I have the honor to be, With great Esteem & Respect, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble servt,

    Henry Laurens, President of Congress.

   I had the honor of writing to you on the 7th Inst.(2) which will accompany this, my Letter having been left behind by Messenger Dodd.

   Within the present Cover will be found an Act of Congress of Yesterdays date recommending the encouragement of true Religion and good Morals and the suppression of Theatrical Entertainments, Horse racing, Gaming, and such other diversions as are productive of Idleness, dissipation and a general depravity of Principles and Manners.(3)

   I have the honor to be, With the highest respect & Esteem, Sir, Your most obedient, humble servant,

    Henry Laurens. President of Congress (4)

   My last trouble to Your Excellency was dated the 9th (1) by Messenger Dodd who was detained by bad weather and a little management of his own until Yesterday.

   Within the present inclosure Your Excellency will receive the undermentioned Papers.

   1. An Act of Congress of the 12th Inst. strictly enjoining all Officers in the Army of the United States to see that the good and wholsome Laws provided for the preservation of Morals among the Soldiers be duly observed.

   2. Extract of a Letter from Governor Livingston dated the 2nd Instant, received this day.(2)

   Congress have directed me to request Your Excellency to give proper Orders for suppressing the evil complained of by the Governor.

   3. Copy of a Letter from Colo. Hartley dated Sunbury 8th October 1778.

   4. An Act of Congress of this date founded on Colonel Hartley's Letter for preventing the Enemy from occupying a Post at Chemung &c.(3)

   I have only time to recommend Jacob Rush Esquire Attorney at Law as Attorney General of the Delaware State. Being informed, that no Gentleman of the Law in our State would accept of this Office, I made application to Mr. Rush, who has agreed to attend faithfully to the duties of this station, provided he is honored with your Commission. The character and abilities of Mr. Rush are so well known to you, that I need say nothing respecting them.(1) I shall

   I am, dear Sir, Your most obedient servant, Tho M:Kean

   In my last (1) I inclosed a News Paper containing certain Queries calculated, as I conceive, to blast the Reputation of a truly virtuous Man. Dr. Lee and Dr. Berkenhout mentioned by the Querist, were formerly fellow Students at Edinburg; and as both were esteemed learned in their Profession, it is not improbable that on that Account they kept up their Acquaintance while both continued in Great Britain. Dr. Lee, you know was requested by Congress to go over to France, where he was made a joynt Commissioner with Messrs. Franklin & Dean. It is possible that a Correspondence afterwards have been carried on between them; but from the Knowledge I have of Dr. Lee, I will venture to pledge my self it was not a criminal one as the Querist would seem to insinuate, and if Dr. Berkenhout was in the Service & under the Direction of the British Ministry, which by the Way is but bare Suspicion here, it must have been utterly unknown to Dr. Lee: I am rather inclind to think it is a Creature of the Querists own Fancy, or an artful Suggestion thrown out to the Publick, to serve the Cause of our Enemies. America should beware how she suffers the Character of one of the most able & vigilant Supporters of her Rights to be injured by Questions designd to impute Slander without any Reasons offerd why such Questions should be made. It is the old Game of mischievous Men to strike at the Characters of the Good and the Great, in order to lessen the Weight of their Example and Influence. Such Patriots as Lord Russel & Algernon Sydney of the last Age, have been of late falsely and audaciously charged, by a Scotch Tool of the most nefarious Court in Europe, as having receivd Bribes from the Ministers of France;(2) and it is not strange that a Gentleman whom the leading American Whigs have placed high in their List of Patriots, who has renderd the most laborious & important Services to our Country in England,

   France & other Parts of Europe, who has so often & so seasonably developd the secret Intrigues & Practices of wicked Men, and who at this Time stands high in the Esteem & Confidence of the Congress, & when it is considered in Addition to this, that there are too many disaffected & insidious Men still lurking among us, it is by no Means a strange thing to hear it insinuated by an anonimous Writer, that Dr. Lee also is chargeable with a criminal Correspondence with the Enemy, without even the Shaddow of Reason.

   You may publish this if you think proper. I receivd your favor of Sept. 30th.(3) It contains very interesting Matter which shall have my Attention at a more leisure Hour than the present. In the mean time Adieu my Fd. S. A.

   The Minister Plenipotentiary of France having informed Congress that a Negotiation for the Exchange of the respective Prisoners of his most Christian Majesty and the King of Great Britain being begun and near the term of its conclusion it becomes important to accelerate this settlement that the King of France's Prisoners be immediately removed to the places where the Exchanges are actually to be made. Therefore we now direct that without delay you will take effectual measures for collecting all Prisoners to the King of France that may be on this side of Hudsons River, at, or as near to Elizabeth town in the State of New Jersey as may be proper for their Safety; and also those Prisoners that are on the other side of said River, at New London in the state of Connecticut, at both which places they are to be safely kept until orders for their disposal are given by the Minister of France or the Count D'Estaing.(1). It is our desire that you produce the same number of Prisoners to the King of France that has been delivered to you or your deputys replacing those by an equal number of Prisoners of the same Class belonging to the United States, those only excepted of his most Christian Majestys Prisoners which his Excellency the vice Admiral commanding his Squadron, or the Minister of France should have formally and gratiously released. You must keep perfect and distinct

   Accounts of all expences attending the Prisoners of his most Christian Majesty which accounts you are to have ready to be delivered when called for by the minister of France or his excellency the Count D'Estaing.(2)

   We doubt not all due attention will be given to these our orders and are sir, Your very Hble Servants.

   P.S. You will please to observe that Mr. William [Shaker?] and his two slaves are not to be removed from this City until particular Orders are given for that purpose by the Minister.

   We were honored with your Excellency's Letter of the 5th Inst.(1) Your Letter to Congress, and the memorial accompanying it are referred to Messrs. R. H. Lee, Samuel Adams, Josiah Bartlet and Oliver Elsworth who have not yet made report.(2) Hope Such determination will be made thereon as will be reasonable & Satisfactory-of which we will give Your Excellency the earliest Notice by the Post. The affair of Finance is yet unfinished, The arrangement of a Board of Treasury is determined on but the officers are Not Yet appointed. Tomorrow is assigned for their Nomination.(3) The members of Congress are United in the great Object of Securing the Liberties and Independence of the States, but are Sometimes divided in opinion about particular measures. The Assembly of New Jersey in their late session did not Ratify the Confederation, nor has it been done by Maryland & Delaware States. These and some other of the States are dissatisfied, that the Western ungranted Lands Should be claimed by particular States, which they think ought to be the common Interest of the United States, they being defended at the common expence. They further Say, that if Some provision is not now made for Securing Lands for the Troops who Serve during the war, they

   Shall have to pay large Sums to the States who claim the vacant Lands to Supply their Quotas of the Troops. Perhaps if the Assembly of Connecticut Should Resolve to make grants to their own Troops, and those raised by the States of Rhode Island, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland in the Lands South of Lake Erie and west of the Lands in Controversy with Pennsylvania, Free of any purchase money or Quit rents to the Government of Connecticut, it might be Satisfactory to those States, and be no damage to the State of Connecticut. A Tract of Thirty Miles East and West across the State would be Sufficient for the purpose, and that being Settled under good regulations would enhance the value of the rest; These could not be claimed as Crown Lands, both the Fee and Jurisdiction having been Granted to the Governor & Company of Connecticut.(4)

   We are Sir with great respect, Your Excellency's most obedt & most hble Servts.

    Roger Sherman

    Oliver Ellsworth

   15. Thursday. A Manifesto or Proclamation from the Comrs. of the

   British King appeared in the paper of this day offering a Genl.

   Pardon, but I believe there is but few people here want their pardon.(1)

   Your favor to me of the 5th (1) by Brown found me in bed, under most severe symptoms of a nervous fever. I had enjoined it upon myself not to visit my family, till the Accounts of my dear, injured,

   I am told the Papers are committed. Mr. S. Adams promises that my sickness shall double his diligence on the point.

   I am, with the most sincere respect, Your friend & obedt. humble Servant, James Lovell.

   I am informd that General Clinton designs to send to the Governor or Assembly of each of the United States, Copies of an insulting Paper, called a Manifesto or Proclamation, calculated to promote a Rebellion, and that the one intended for this State is to be sent by Water up the Delaware. And as it appears to be the Design of the Enemy, as far as it may be in their power, further to pursue their barbarous practice of laying waste our Sea Ports, and that they would be particularly gratified by an opportunity of destroying this City; would it not be proper that one or two of your Gallies should be ordered to watch for them in the River, that they may seize their Vessel & bring the Men up, blindfold, to be confined & dealt with according to the Laws of Nature and Nations.(1) You will excuse this Hint, and be assured that I am, Your very humble Servt,

    S. Adams.

   I had the Honor of receiving your Excy's Letter of the 5th Instant,(1) and sincerely condole with you on the heavy Loss your Family and the publick sustain by the Death of your eldest Son. His Services in my opinion merited great Consideration, and it now behoves the Publick to render the Settlement of his Affairs as easy to his surviving Friends as possible. I have communicated the Contents of your Letter to my Colleagues & other Members of Congress, & you may be assured Sir that we shall interrest ourselves in obtaining with all possible Speed the Attention & Decision of Congress on the Matters set forth in your Representation.(2)

   Mr Sherman was so obliging as to give me the perusal of your Letter to him, and I am happy that Congress as a Body concur with you in the Sentiment therein containd, having passd a Resolution by a great Majority expressing their Sense that true Religion & good Morals are the only solid Foundations of publick Liberty and Happiness [....] (3) I am Sir with the most cordial Esteem & Respect Yr Excys most obedt hbt servt S. A.

   16. Friday. The articles respecting the surrender of the Island of Dominic to his most Christian Majesty came to hand this day. (1)

   Within the present inclosure I have the honor of transmitting an Act of Congress of the 13th Instant directing the Deputy Paymaster General in the State of Georgia to pay into the hands of the Deputy Commissary, the Deputy Quarter Master and the Deputy Clothier General in that State, such sum or sums of Money as may be wanting in their several departments they to be accountable respectively, and for other purposes therein after mentioned, to which I beg leave more particularly to refer.(1)

   I have the honor to be &c.

   I lately troubled you with two Addresses under the 7th and 13th (1) respectively by the hands of Messenger Freeman-since which I have had the honor of receiving and presenting to Congress your favor of the 6th Instant together with a Memorial and Petition of Mr. William Hoskins, which are committed to a special Committee and I trust will soon be reported.(2)

   Within the present Cover you will receive Sir, an Act of Congress (3) of this date for preventing the spreading of seditious Papers by the Enemy under the sanction of pretended flags of Truce or otherwise and for punishing Persons detected in attempts to disperse such Papers.(4) I have the honor to be &c.

   I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency the 13th Instant by Messenger Freeman.

   Inclosed Your Excellency will be pleased to receive an Act of Congress of yesterdays' date for removing from Massachusetts Bay to Charlottesville in Virginia the Troops of the Convention of Saratoga unless Sir Henry Clinton shall have complied with one of the requisitions of Congress in their Act of the 11th September last.(1)

   Also an Act of this date in a printed Paper forbidding every Person holding an office under the United States to encourage or attend at Theatrical Entertainments.(2)

   I likewise trouble Your Excellency with an Act of the same date for preventing the spreading of seditious Papers in these States by the Enemy under the Mask of Flags of Truce or otherwise and for punishing Persons detected in attempts to disperse such Papers-this, as I apprehend was intended to extend as a direction to Your Excellency, and to Commanders of separate Departments, but upon a review I find it is not so comprehensive. It is therefore offered at present as matter of information.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   P.S. Your Excellency's favor of the 6th Inst. & the Roll containing proceedings of a Court Martial on General Schuyler have been duly presented to Congress.(3)

   We have been informed that the business of retaining and Exchanging Marine Prisoners is not conducted by your Deputy at Boston with that attention which is necessary-therefore we request that you will immediately give Orders that all due regard be had to that business and that in exchanging your Said Deputy be observant and governed by the Orders of the Honorable the Navy Board of the Eastern Department. Mr. David Waterbury now a Prisoner on Parole in the State of Connecticut was taken by the enemy on Lake Champlain in the Month of October 1776 when he had the command of a Galley in the service of these States. We consider Mr. Waterbury at the time he was taken as a Captain in the Marine Line, and as such we request you will enter him on your List to be exchanged for an officer of equal rank when a Proper Opportunity shall offer.

   We are sir, Your Hble servts

   I suppose you will have seen before this reaches you the Pennsylvania Packet of Tuesday last (1) which contains a Resolution of Congress expressing their Sense that true Religion and good Morals are the only Foundations of Publick Liberty and Happiness; and earnestly recommending to the several States to take the most effectual Measures for the Encouragement thereof and to prevent Stage playing and such kinds of Diversions as are productive of Vice, Idleness, Dissipation and a general Depravity of Principles and Manners, also injoyning on all officers of the Army to see that the Rules prescribd for the Encouragement of Virtue and the discountenancing of Prophaness and Vice are duly executed. You must know that in humble Imitation, as it would seem, of the Example of the British Army some of the officers of ours have condescended to act on the Stage while others, and one of Superior Rank were pleasd to countenance Them with their presense. This with some other appearances as disagreeable to the Sober Inhabitants of this City as to Congress gave Occasion for the Resolution. I am sorry that by a Repetition of a theatrical Performance which at least appeard to be done in contempt of the Sense of Congress, another Resolution became necessary.(2) You will see it in the enclosd paper. The young french Marquiss

    Adieu. S A

   If I should tell you that I wonder much at the Conduct of some of our Politicians, I might discover my own Folly; for it is said a wise Man wonders at Nothing. Be it so; I am curious to know who made the Motion for the Admission of Gray, Gardiner and Jemmy Anderson? (1) Which of the Boston Members supported it. Are the Galleries of the House open? Do the People know that such a Motion was Made? A Motion so alarming to an old Whig! Or are they so incessantly eager in the Pursuit of Pleasure or of Gain, as to be totally thoughtless of their Country? I hope not. Gracious Heaven Preserve us from Vanity, Folly and the inordinate Love of Money. Your News Papers are silent upon every Subject of Importance, but the Description of a Feast, or the Eclat of some Great Man. Your able Patriot is wholly employd in spirited Exertions of the Military Kind, or he would surely have pourd forth all his Eloquence on so detestable a Motion. The Motion "did not obtain." I rejoyce in this; but Do you do Justice to the House by so faint an Expression? I hope they rejected it with every Mark of Contempt and Indignation. Do the Gentlemen who made and supported this Motion know, that even in this Quaker Country they are trying, condemning and I suppose will hang some of their considerable Men for Crimes not inferior to those of Gray and Gardiner. Jemmy Anderson I have forgot. I presume he is a little Man and a Scotchman. It is the opinion of the People of this Country that a Galloway could not atone for his publick Crimes by the Sacrifice of a thousand Lives. A Galloway, a Gray,

   My last was Sent by Col Folsom, Since which I have Receivd yours of the 24th of September & Polly's & Lois's of the 26th, and have the pleasure to learn that you were then all well, as I am also at this writing. I have Enclosed you Some news papers which will inform you what is the news here, but if this letter is as long a time on the road as mine to you Commonly are they will bring no news to you. I

   Remember me to all Enquiring friends.(1) I am yours,

    Josiah Bartlett

   I send you by Mr. Nourse two Notes of hand in favor of the Treasurer of the State of New York, one for Cornelius Humfrey of Dutchess County for £34.2/ the other from John Chamberlain of the said County for £25.6. These Notes were received in Payment of sundry Articles, purchased by those Persons in the County of Westchester, during the time I was on a Committee of the Convention in that County.

   I likewise transmit to you an Account betwixt Genl. Thompson and the Convention of the State of New York, which I received from Mr. Matthew Irvin during the Time I was in the County of Westchester, together with the Ballance due to the State of New York being £22.10.1 which I then received of Mr. Irvin. You will be pleas'd to give to Mr. Nourse, Receipts for the two Notes and the above Ballance.

   Pray don't fail to speak to Mr. Benson and to Mr. McKesson for the General Acct. Current of the Committee of the Convention, which I transmitted last Summer. I shall after a Stay of ten, or Twelve Days in Jersey (for which Place I shall set out about the Middle of next Week) repair to Esopus in Ulster County in order to settle all my public Accts and to restore my private Affairs to some

    Degree of Order.(2)

    I am, very Sincerely, Yours, Wm Duer

   I had Yesterday the honor of presenting to Congress your favor of the 6th Instant, on the 12th Instant I delivered to the House the proceedings of a Court Martial to which you allude.(1)

   Be assured Sir, if a determination by Congress on those proceedings happens before the expiration of my time in the Office of President, you shall be immediately informed. I have but a moment for serving the present opportunity.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   We have determined to resume the building of One of the Frigates that are on the stocks at Gosport, and now direct that you will immediately proceed to build that One of the said frigates which at this time is most forward-the work done towards the other you will secure, so as to prevent damage from the weather. To enable you to go on with this business we Send you by the bearer hereof Mr. James White 20,000 Dollars agreeable to his receipt enclosed, which we doubt not you will manage with the greatest conomy and give great attention and dispatch to the business committed to your care.(1)

   You will inform us from time to time of your proceedings &, We are Gentlemen, Your Hble servants

   I am set down with a heavy & aching heart to write to you. To you I can communicate my sentiments without reserve, as I am sure you will never betray that confidence I repose in you. I will now speak more freely to you than I have yet done. They are the dictates of an honest heart that means well, & is deeply impressed with the most poignant grief in contemplating the ruin that impends over this unhappy country. Since I have come into C_____ I have viewed the progress of its business with a curious, & a watchful eye. I have for some time past thought this body by no means competent to do the great public business intrusted to them, I am now thoroughly convinced of the Justice of this observation. I do not think it would be prudent to trust my reasons to paper, I will reserve them untill we meet. Do not think me actuated by an over jealous disposition. Indeed I am not. I have refrained from saying this much, untill I was satisfyed there was no room left whereon to hang a doubt. A change of Men, or measures, must be speedily effected, or we are lost. It is a melancholy truth, & as I think it high time it was known, I must tell you that the American cause never stood so near the pinnacle of destruction as it at this day does, & is daily approaching nearer to its downfall. Whence arises this dangerous alarm? I may be asked. From men in whom you repose an implicit confidence, & who are not worthy of it. These are serious matters, & require no less serious consideration. They are meant to operate so far in your mind as to produce something for the benefit of that virtuous cause in which you took so early & decided a part, and the same noble Patriotism which first fired your bosom to step forth in its support, will, I make not the least doubt again engage your exertions of mind, to devise some means for conducting it to a final & happy Issue. I would wish to see one State at least in the Union have fortitude and honesty enough to instruct their Delegates to remonstrate in pointed & severe terms, against the abuse, & waste of time that Daily is committed in that body. The great public concerns are left to shift for themselves, whilst almost our whole time is ingroced by the private interests of individuals. Alas! C_____ is not what it has been. Your own good sence will at once dictate to you that this must be, inter nos, It is a delicate affair, & ought to be handled with extream tenderness, for if these things were once to get abroad, the consequences, you must at

   Octr. 18. For particulars of the intelligence we received yesterday, of the expedition against you I must refer you to Hall. We set untill past ten oClock last night on this business & at last carried our point for 2000 men more to be sent you from No. Carolina,(1) this will make 6000 in the whole, which with our own force, will pretty effectually secure us against this cruel enemy, provided they are with you in time. We have taken every step we possibly could, that they should be, & hope they will, at least the first 4000. (2) You know my handwriting therefore shall not put my name to this. I am my Dr. Sir, Yours most sincerely. J.M.

   I have had the honor of receiving & presenting to Congress Your Lordship's Letter of the 13th Inst.(1) The House were well pleased with the Contents; repeated intelligence of what passes within Your Lordship's department respecting the movements of the Enemy will be very acceptable.

   Within the present Inclosure will be found an Act of Congress of the 17th Inst. permitting Mrs. Yard to return to this City with her Trunks & Baggage without any examination, to which I beg leave to refer.(2)

   I have the honor to be, With great Respect & Esteem, Sir, Your Lordship's Obedient & most humble servant,

    Henry Laurens,

    President of Congress.

   I have barely time to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of 24th September,(2) to assure you your Letter which came inclosed in it shall be carefully sent forward, of my friendship for you on all occasions admitting my interposition with propriety, and that I have the honor to be with great Regard, Sir, Your obedient & most humble Servant, Henry Laurens.

   [P.S.] Gen McIntosh will communicate the News of the day.

   I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency the 16th Instant by Colonel Wood.(1)

   Congress having received further intelligence from New York of the Enemy's design to make an Attack upon South Carolina, and that an embarkation of Troops for that purpose had actually commenced, have directed me to request Your Excellency to forward with all possible Expedition the 1,000 Men requested to be sent fol the aid of that State (2) in an Act of Congress of the 25th Ulto. which I had the honor of transmitting in my Letter to Your Excellency of

   I Am with great Respect & Esteem Sir &c.

   P.S. I am directed to assure Your Excellency that Money for payment of the troops will be remitted in a few days.(5)

   I beg leave to refer Your Excellency to my late letters of the 13th and 16th Instant sent to Governor Caswell by an Express Messenger with a request to the Governor to be forwarded immediately to Charlestown.(1)

   Congress having received recent repeated intelligence of the design of the Enemy to attack Charlestown or some part of South Carolina have directed me to request the Governors of Virginia and North Carolina to forward with all expedition the troops requested for the aid of South Carolina and Georgia in their Act of the 25th Ulto. and also an additional number of two thousand from North Carolina as Your Excellency will be more particularly informed by the Inclosed Act of the 17th Instant.

   One of the British Commissioners' Manifesto flags o£ Truce intended for this River,(2) having on board three Packets supposed to be intended for Delaware, Pennsylvania and Congress was by a violent wind driven a few days ago on the Jersey shore and wrecked, the Commander of the flag Vessel said to be a Lieutenant of a British 50 Gun ship, a Midshipman and eight or ten Seamen escaped with their lives, these were seized and sent prisoners to Philadelphia, and were yesterday committed to the New Goal-tomorrow I shall enquire more particularly into the history of their errand, there is among the Seamen a person who was formerly a skillful Pilot on

   I have the honor to be &c.(3)

   I had Yesterday the honor of receiving & presenting to Congress your Letter of the 16th, which is the only one yet come to my hands.

   While we regret the loss of Colonel the Baron Bose, Monsr. de Borderie and the few men who fell with those brave Officers in the late Night attack by the Enemy, the escape of the whole and the retort made upon the assailants, is ascribed Sir, to your animated and timely exertions.(1) Congress wait to learn from you the particulars of this affair, there is much propriety in the disposal of the two Guides.

   With respect to the Tories and that conduct of the Militia which you complain of, attempts are daily made for obtaining reforms in both, but in infant States such evils have ever appeared, and are not to be removed in a moment.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   In obedience to the Order of Congress laid on me last evening, I have written the Letters to Lord Stirling respecting Mrs. Yard, with

   When I reflect that on the 13th Instant I transmitted to General Washington an Order of Congress "to take effectual measures for preventing an illicit commerce between the inhabitants of these States and the Enemy in the garrison at New York," and take into consideration the present Permit to pass Trunks & Baggage from that place without examination, I feel a deep apprehension for the honor of Congress which will probably be called in question by the Army in the first instance, and possibly by the good people at large in these States eventually; nor am I without some concern on your account Sir, should it hereafter appear that such Trunks and Baggage had contained Merchandize, and had not been fully explained to Congress when the Permit for free passage was applied for. Pardon me Sir, for these suggestions, they flow from the purest motives. You will determine in a moment whether they contain any degree of propriety and will act as you shall judge proper. I therefore submit the Letter to you under a flying Seal to be sent forward immediately or detained for further reflection on the subject matter. If you shall determine the former be pleased to close the Letter by a wafer.

   Believe me to be, Dear Sir, With great Respect and Regard, Your Obedient &, Most Humble Servt.

   Congress were yesterday informed by what is said to be good authority, that several thousand of the Enemy are about embarking

   The French have taken Dominica and Turks Island, and will soon be in possession of all the British W. Islands, unless they are defended in a different manner, from what they now are, nor have they any other resources than what are here plagueing us. Count de Estaings Fleet will shortly be fit for sea again, and how the Enemy can continue to divide their shipping without leaving him superior to what is left I know not. We have no late information from Europe worth mentioning, Except that the Emperor of Germany and the King of Prussia are at the head of 250,000 Troops each well officered, they seem disposed to try who has the longest sword.

   The Delegates wrote your Excellency an official letter not long ago, tho' we have not had the pleasure to hear from you since our arrival, in that way. I have received one letter only, I shall think myself much obliged to you for some account of what is doing to the Southward, when you can spare so much time; I wrote to you the first of this month, (1) giving you all the information that I suspected would please or was worth your attention. I should take pleasure, in corresponding with you if agreeable besides what is necessary in our official characters. Genl. Howe is directed to repair to head Quarters to join the grand army, and Genl Lincoln goes to So. Carolina to take the command there. The latter is from Massachusetts Bay. He is highly spoken of-both as a Soldier and a Gentleman-by all that know him, especially by the Southern Officers.

   The French Minister behaves with great propriety as far as I am able to judge of his conduct. I wrote you the situation Genl. Lee was in, Congress have been so engaged in business, that we have not had as much time as to take up the proceedings of the Court. However that will be the business of to morrow.

   Genrls. Schuyler and St Clair are honorably acquitted by the Court Martial. We shall examine their trial soon.(2) My Compliments to your Son, And am with due respect your Excellency's Mo. Ob. Servt. John Penn

    19. Monday. Congress received accounts from Lord Sterling that the enemy were prepairing for a grand movement from New York, but where is uncertain.(1) I wrote to Capt. Batchelder.(2)

   20. Tuesday. Genl. Lincoln & his aid dined with Us.(3) I wrote to Mrs. Holten (No. 25).(4)

   Monsieur the Marquis de la Fayette having done me the honor to take a letter for you, I am happy in the opportunity of bringing two men acquainted with each other whom I greatly love. All good men in these United States esteem the Marquis for his brave and generous attachment to the cause of America, and for the services he has here performed as a General in our Army. It is impossible that a person of such worth should not feel the obligation of returning to offer service to his country when engaged in war. Yet the Marquis still continues a Major General in the Army of the United States, and

   Be so kind as [to] introduce my son Ludwell to the Marquis, and charge the Youth to respect Monsr. Fayette as the much esteemed friend of his father. I am my dear brother most affectionately yours,

    Richard Henry Lee

   I have not yet had the pleasure to hear from you; but by Mr. Rowes letter of the 6th inst. I perceive you were at Boston. His drafts No. 1 to 9 amount 107,702 Dol. are duly accepted, as will Such others as you or he by your directions may draw. I continue also to pay Mr. Oster's order for the expenses of the Ship Chimere and the two prizes which Seem to accumulate pretty fast. The Salt imported in the Jeune Achilles remains in Store and I now understand it belongs to the marine of france, it will remain there for your orders. Mr. Oster will inform you that another Cargo of this Salt is arrived at Baltimore, nothing is yet done with Capt. Roche and I wish he was here in person as he makes Some difficulties that you might remove more easily than I can. However we are to meet this day on the business and I Shall bring it to some conclusion or other. Considering that you may probably have occasion for much money in Boston I have endeavour'd to Sell more bills, but I find a considerable alteration is operated in the course of Exchange by the Loan office bills being pretty generally offer'd for Sale at 500 per Ct. and those being deemed as good as any can be, no body will now give me 600 per Ct. as they did before. I mention this for your information that you may avail yourself of a favorable course of exchange at Boston, if you want to draw further & can there get a price to your liking. Capt. Deane in the Sloop la Liberty Sailed from Virginia for France Some time ago and Mr. Harrison has charg'd me for the Cargo and Expences of the Vessell upwards of £3600. Mr. Clarkson has charged me with upwards of £10,000 for goods bought from the Sales of the prizes which are to be account'd for by Mr Mitchell Quarter Master General and will be placed against the Cost of the our Supplied the fleet. I am told the Chemere frigate is coming up to the City which will no doubt cause an encrease of expences. The goods from No. Carolina intended for Mr Harrison had not reached him at the date of his last letter. I have at last procured an order

   A few days ago Mr Brown, a publick Messenger carried a Letter from me to you, which I hope you will receive before this reaches you. I feel a Pleasure when I sit down to write to you and omit no opportunity. My Boston Friends tell me with great Sollicitude that I have Enemies there. I thank them for their Concern for me, and tell them I knew it before. The Man who acts an honest Part in publick Life, must often counteract the Passions, Inclinations or Humours of weak and wicked Men and this must create him Enemies. I am therefore not disappointed or mortified. I flatter my self that no virtuous Man who knows me will or can be my Enemy; because I think he can have no Suspicion of my Integrity. But they say my Enemies "are plotting against me." Neither does this discompose me, for what else can I expect from such kind of Men. If they mean to make me uneasy they miss their Aim; for I am happy and it is not in their Power to disturb my Peace. They add, The

   Design is to get me recalled from this Service. I am in no Pain about such an Event; for I know there are many who can serve our Country here with greater Capacity (though none more honestly). The sooner therefore another is elected in my Room the better. I shall the sooner retire to the sweet Enjoyment of domestick Life. This, you can witness, I have often wished for; and I trust that all gracious Providence has spared your precious Life through a dangerous Illness, to heighten the Pleasures of my Retirement. If my Enemies are governd by Malice or Envy, I could not wish them a severer Punishment than their own Feelings. But, my Dear, I thank God, I have many Friends. You know them. Remember me to them all as you have opportunity. I could say many more things to you, but I am called off. My Love to my Daughter & Sister Polly and the rest of our Family and Connections. Adieu. Your most affectionate, S. Adams

   I am much pleasd with the Respect lately shown to the Count D'Estaing and his Officers, but not with the Etiquet of your publick Entertainment.(1) The Arrangement of the Toasts was not perfectly agreable to my Idea of Propriety. This may be thought unworthy of Notice. But there is no Appearance made by the Publick but, like that of a private Individual, adds more or less to its Honor or Disgrace. Besides, Things which detatchd & by themselves are justly considered as Trifles light as Air, when they are connected with and made Parts of a great Machine, become important and do good or Hurt. The Monarch & Kingdom of France preceeded the Congress; and the Army & Navy of France that of America. Nations and independent sovereign States do not compliment after the Manner of Belles & Beaus. The superior Respect paid to the General & Army of America to that shown to the Congress, viz. by the Addition of a feu du joy, I suppose was conformable to the practice of all wise States in giving a just Preference to the Military above the Civil Power. It must be confessd it is grounded on Principles truly and altogether Republican. Yet the old fashioned Whiggs murmur at it; and with a Mixture of Pleasure and Indignation contrast the present with past Times when it was made a Capital Point, to keep the former under the Controul of the latter. Men are prone to Idolatry; and some who seem to scorn the worshiping Gods of other

   Nations, will bow down to graven Images of Gold & Silver, and, strange Infatuation! of Wood in the Form of an Ass, an Ape or a Calf, no matter what, if it be the Work of their own Hands. In Truth, my Friend, the Congress appears to be in an awkard Situation. While they are exerting their utmost Influence, on all proper Occasions, to support the civil Authority of the several States over the military, there are some Men, even in that State which my Partiality had almost led me to pronounce the most respectable in the Union who would have less Respect shown to them than to the Creatures which they have made. Tyrants have been the Scourges and Plagues of Mankind, and Armies their Instruments. These have been said by ignorant Flatterers & Sycophants to be the Vicegerents of the Almighty to punish Men for their Sins, and therefore not to be resisted or contrould. The Time may come when the Sins of America may be punishd by a standing Army; and that Time will surely come when the Body of the People, shall be so lost to the Exercise of common Understanding and Caution, as to suffer the Civil to stoop to the Military Power.

   I will finish this Scrawl with an Anecdote. Not many Days ago a Sherriff of the County of Philadelphia attempted to serve a Writ on the Person of the Count Pulaski. He was at the Head of his Legion and resisted the Officer. A Representation of it was made to Congress by the Chief Justice who well understands his Duty and is a Gentleman of Spirit. The Count was immediately orderd to submit to the Magistrate, and informd that Congress was determind to resent any Opposition made to the civil Authority by any of their officers. The Count acted upon the Principle of Honor. The Debt was for the Support of his Legion, and he thought the Charge unreasonable as it probably was. He was ignorant of the Law of the Land and made the Amend honorable. The Board of War afterwards adjusted the Account and the Creditor was satisfied.(2) Adieu. S.A.

   [P.S.] I intreat you not to resign your Seat at the Navy Board.(3)

   I had the Honor of writing to you yesterday in the morning.(1) Since that Time the following Intelligence recd. from Lord Sterling has changed the opinions of most Gentlemen with respect to the immediate operations of the Enemy.

   "A certain Capt. Clure who was taken sometime since by the Enemy in a Merchant Ship, came out of New York yesterday, and gave me more particular Intelligence than I have been able to procure. He says that two hundred and fifty Sail of Transports are prepared for the reception of Troops. The Embarcation is in part begun. All the heavy Iron Cannon from the Batteries are shiped. Sixteen Sail of the Line to go on what they call the grand Expedition.

   "I have this Moment received the report of the Officer I have fixed at Amboy to watch the Motions of the Enemy. He says Oct. the 16th twelve ships fell down to Sandy Hook. Oct. the 17th early in the morning about one hundred Sail of Ships of War and Transports fell down to the Hook. Their grand movement is on the point of taking place, and I hope to be able to morrow to know their Destination."

   There is in the Secretarys office twenty copies of the first and second Volumes of the proceedings of Congress; If it is agreeable to the Assembly, I will have them packed up and sent by way of Cristeen to Annapolis.

   The Flag that was coming to this City with the Manifesto and proclamation from the Commissioners is cast away on the Jersey shore.(2) Two officers and ten men were saved. They had three packets which were lossed. If the General Assembly is now sitting you will be pleased to communicate, this intelligence to them. I wrote to the Speaker yesterday(3) and gave him the News of the Day which was not as perfect as the present, which I believe may be depended on.

   I am at present alone and from the important Business before Congress, respecting our finances and foreign Affairs, earnestly desire a representation as soon as any of my Colleagues can possibly attend.(4)

   I am Sir with great respect to you and the Council, Your most obedient and very hble Servt, J. Henry Junr

   [P.S.] The Letter from Sterling was dated on Saturday last.

   I have had the honor of receiving and presenting to Congress your Letter of the 6th Instant, which came by the hand of Captain Blecker.

   The Letter is committed to a special Committee, when a Report is made and Congress shall have formed a Resolve on the important subjects treated of, if it be within the line of my Presidency, you shall be immediately advised by Sir, Your Most Obedient & Most Humble Servant.(1)

   I have the honor of transmitting within the present inclosure, an Act of Congress of the 17th Instant expressing the high sense which the Representative Body of these States entertains of Your Excellency's zeal and attachment in the Cause in which the Arms of

   His Most Christian Majesty & those of the United States of America are mutually engaged.(1) Also, of their perfect approbation of the conduct of Your Excellency & of the Officers and Men under Your Excellency's Command.

   Although Sir, no words of my own can give energy to the language of the Resolves of Congress, I may be permitted upon this occasion to assure Your Excellency the present Act contains not only the opinion of Congress, but, as far as I can penetrate, the genuine sentiments of each Member, & it is with particular satisfacton I do so.

   I have the honor to be, With the highest Respect and Esteem, Sir, Your Excellency's Most obedient and Most humble servant,

    Henry Laurens,

    President of Congress

   I have had the honor of presenting Your Letter of the 13th Inst. to Congress & although no particular determination was had I have reason to believe the House approve of your sentiments respecting Mr. Winship late dep. Commy. of Issues in the Northern department (1) the vacancy which his neglect had made in that Office is now supplied by the appointment of James Gray Esquire who will deliver this & enter immediately upon the execution of his duty.(2)

   I am with great regard, Sir, Your most obedient, humble servant, Henry Laurens, President of Congress.

   To SIR HENRY CLINTON, &c. &c.

   May it please your Excellency.

   I have been favoured with the sight of your letter to the Congress, dated at New-York, the l9th September, 1778, on which I shall take leave to make a few observations.(1)

   It was suggested to me to notice the requisition you sent upon the same subject, some time since, as a Commissioner, in conjunction with your brethren, Eden and Carlisle. I avoided it, because I was certain your Excellency would offer me another and a better opportunity. You will, however, pardon me for referring to that paper on the present occasion.

   Let me observe, Sir, that fraud and hypocrisy, however they may be mistaken for policy by weak minds, are of a very different family, and have not the slightest connection. The use of them is at all times dishonourable, sometimes dangerous. They may serve one turn and for one moment, but they frequently fail even of that short purpose, and impede a man in all his future operations. If ever there was an opportunity for using these weapons successfully, you had it with us; for we reposed the highest confidence in British integrity, and we had an affection for the nation. But you have so imprudently dissipated our good opinion, that when you aim a great stroke the means are wanting.

   When your officers broke their paroles, we imputed it to a defect of principle among them individually from the want of education and other circumstances of that kind, which, considering the characters of some, is not to be wondered at. And when we heard that these persons were not only countenanced but caressed, we did not believe it.

   We know tolerably well the insidious manners of your court, for they were painted by your own citizens, and we had reason to believe their assertions. We found the design to enslave us was persisted in through every change of Ministers and measures, and professions in a long course of years. But we did not, we could not believe that their baneful influence had so deeply affected every order of your state. And though the conduct of Lord Dunmore, in tendering freedom to all the slaves who should butcher their masters and repair to his standard, was sufficient to have opened our eyes. Yet our partiality in your favour led us to attribute this to the profligacy of his private character, and to a predeliction for Negroes, arising from his natural propensity to the females of that complexion.

   In short, I have known some of the best friends to America behave

   At length conviction came, though slow, yet full. To mention the instances in which you broke faith with the public and with individuals, would be to write the history of your three campaigns, with all the attirais of proclamations and protections. But it would be for the honour of human nature to bury this history in oblivion. It is sufficient for the present to observe, that we became fully convinced you were no longer to be trusted.

   Honest men, after they have been defrauded, acquire that wholesome suspicion which others inherit. The only difference indeed is, that the former reason from facts, the latter from feelings. Of consequence mutual diffidence took place to the greatest degree; and it is perhaps as laughable a circumstance as any of the others that you made at this time, and under such auspices your conciliatory propositions, which of all things required the greatest confidence. But to return.

   It was predicted by every discerning man, that the troops of the convention would be used against us the instant they were out of our power. Your former conduct justified the inference, and considering the many infractions you made in it from the very commencement of the treaty, Congress had good right to have declared the stipulations on their part void. Principles, however, of national honour induced the determination of that Body strictly to comply with the convention. Luckily for America General Burgoyne, by declaring in a letter to Congress that they had broken it, gave an additional ground, known and acknowledged among nations, for suspending it until a ratification from the court of Great-Britain. It is observable, that even then the suspension was carried by a very small majority, although every Member present was convinced you did not mean to pay the least regard to it. They reasoned (but with what force it becomes not me to determine) that it was better to convince the world by one more experiment of your want of integrity. Luckily however, they were overruled; and you have daily given additional proofs of the wisdom of that cautionary measure.

   On the requisition by yourself and others, Commissioners, &c. dated at New-York, the 26th August,(2) the following doubts arise:

   1st. Why was it not made sooner, since clearly the Commissioners had as much power to ratify it before, and their King was as much in need of his troops.

   2d. By what authority did the Commissioners intermeddle in a business by no means in contemplation at the time of their appointment, and (as will be shewn hereafter) clearly out of their power,

   I am informed that the solution given in Congress at the time was, that the Commissioners had received a ratification of the convention, together with orders to make an application of that kind, with a view to two objects:

   1st. If possible to obtain the prisoners, and then declare the convention void by reason of the suspension, and of their want of authority.

   2d. At least to lead Congress into some kind of treaty or correspondence with them on the subject, and thereby indirectly into an acknowledgment of an authority in the Commissioners to treat with us as subjects of Great-Britain.

   This is confirmed substantially by your letter; for it cannot be supposed that your Ministers have less pride or wisdom than heretofore. If therefore their Commissioners had been possessed of sufficient authority, they would hardly have sent you that express and recent authority you mention to have received since the date of their requisition. It is worthy of observation that this date is the 26th of August, and Your authority the twelfth of June, between which is an interval of eleven weeks. It is evident that Your Ministers in the critical situation of their country, would give this paper every possible dispatch. Six weeks or seven, at farthest, were sufficient to transmit it from Whitehall to New-York. Hence it is evident, not only that you had received that paper before the date of the requisition, but also that it was on that ground the requisition was made.(3)

   What right had the Commissioners to interfere in it? They were appointed for the single purpose of persuading us to become subjects to the King, being a kind of missionaries to propagate monarchy in foreign parts,(4)and what connection this has with a military convention, no man can discover. They had no authority to speak to Congress on national grounds. They were not Ambassadors, Ministers Plenipotentiary, nor any thing of that kind. They were not appointed by letters of credence but by commission under the great seal, not from the mere motive of the Prince, but by Act of Parliament. In short, the whole mission was on domestick principles; when therefore the people of America refused to become subjects to the King of England, their authority, if any they had, ceased, nor could they possibly have had authority to the purpose they pretended. It was given them neither by their commission, nor by the act on which that commission was grounded, nor could it possibly have been in contemplation when that act was passed; and your letter shews demonstratively, not only that they had not any such authority, but that your King and his Ministers did not think they had.

   But what kind of authority is your's? Why it seems you have sent a

   The position then, Sir Harry, is clear, that when Carlisle, Eden and Clinton made their remonstrance and requisition, and when you made your demand, neither they or you had given or could give that satisfaction for keeping the convention which Congress had a right to demand: Of consequence you could not expect the troops would be suffered to depart from our shores. This being the case, let us consider the requisition. I say what did you and your brethren mean by your eulogy upon the faith of cartels, military capitulations, conventions and treaties which you have sported with so often? What did you mean by calling on us by the sacred obligations of humanity and justice, to do what, confident with a regard to either, or even to our own safety you knew was impossible? What did you mean by a threat of retaliation, you who have exhausted the mores of military barbarity? What were you to retaliate? A weakness almost amounting to pusilanimity in declining to avenge the injuries you have done? Do you think it possible to affright us by an idea that you will pay no regard to cartels or capitulations? You nevey yet have done it: Those who surrender to you know they are exposed to the sword or to languish in confinement.

   You have dared to say, "all breach of faith, even with an enemy, and all attempts to elude the force of military conventions, or to defeat their salutary purposes by evasion or chicane, are justly held in detestations and deemed unworthy of any description of persons assuming the characters or stating themselves as the Representatives of nations," and yet at that moment you are employed in the very

   It is to be lamented, that on an occasion so solemn, and of such serious consequences to your reputations, we cannot derive an idea of your wisdom, equal to that which your fortitude hath impressed. It would have been glorious indeed, could you have shewn a capacity to deceive all mankind with the same facility that you set their opinions at defiance. But unfortunately this is not the case, for you have taken upon you to remonstrate against the unjust detention of the Saratoga troops. Did you consider the force of the term? If the detention is unjust, the convention is broken, if we have broken the convention you are no longer bound by it, if no longer bound in equity, a ratification extorted by the unjust detention will be void. To have released them therefore on this requisition, other objectionable circumstances being removed, would by implication have admitted you a ground whereon to build a release from your engagements; wherefore the requisition taking it conjunctively with the remonstrance contained in it, as it shews the mind an opinion which you possess so presumptively it demonstrates the conduct you mean to hold, and therefore compels-Congress to a greater caution and circumspection, being in fact a supplement to that letter of General Burgoyne which I mentioned before.

   We come now to your letter of the nineteenth of September. One word more as to chronology. Your offer it seems is not only by express but recent authority, &c. If this epithet means any thing, we are to conclude that the authority was then just received. Indeed you take pains to induce that belief. But the extract you send us is dated the 12th of June, that is more than three months prior to your letter. Did you imagine the Congress had such implicit faith in your dictums, as to believe you had but just received that letter? The imposition is too glaring to pass on men of much less sagacity. What could have put it in your head that it is unprecedented to take no notice of demands by those who have no right to make them? The Lord Chief Justice of England is an officer at least as well known in the constitution of your kingdom as these new-fangled Commissioners. Suppose the Earl of Mansfield had written a letter to Congress demanding the convention troops, do-you think a neglect of this demand would have been quite unprecedented? And yet he had full

   But let us examine this express authority. I take it such authority can be derived but two ways respecting those to whom it relates: These are dependent on the points either of sovereignty or subjection.

   First then as to the sovereignty. Conceding that America is an independent power, then clearly your authority ought to be expressed in a letter of credence to Congress, which it is not.

   Secondly, as to the subjection. If, as you say we are subjects, then on general principles you are not bound to keep faith with rebels. But further, your laws have expressly determined this matter by a case in point, shewing that capitulations and conventions with rebels are merely void, so that the least which could be expected is an act of Parliament. But

   Thirdly, on the ground both of sovereignty and of subjection, leaving that great point in dubio, the authority should have been derived under the great seal and sign manual.

   In lieu of all this you send an extract of a letter from a Secretary of State, which neither with foreign nations, nor even with your own subjects is worth a pinch of snuff; and thus you have thought proper to dubb with the sounding title of an express and recent authority from the King.

   In order however to piece out the deficiencies of your ratification, you have insinuated a threat of certain consequences which are to follow from withholding a compliance with your demands. You are really a most diverting correspondent. What in the name of common sense can you mean by this and by your former menace of retaliation? Is it that if ever we are so weak as to make any agreement with you, you will break it? We always expected as much, we have told you so repeatedly, and this is one of the capital reasons why we reprobate all connection with you. Is it that you will to the utmost of your power lay waste our country? You have done this already, not excepting the territory of those poor creatures who had a confidence in your promises and an affection for your cause. Is it that you will burn our habitations? You made no small figure in that kind of business before the convention was made. Is it that you will murder prisoners in cold blood? Why even that practice, bad as it is, you are by no means unaccustomed to. This part of your letter reminds me of a speech which one of your excellent poets hath put in the mouth of a mad King. He too takes upon him to threaten those whom he cannot injure, and exclaims, "I will do such things! What they are yet I know not." (5)

   To conclude, Sir Harry, though you are my enemy, I will express

   I am, with the greatest respect, Sir, your most obedient and humble servant, An AMERICAN.(6)

   I can by no Means neglect the fair Opportunity offered me by Doctor Witherspoon and therefore I write in a Hurry without recurring to yours which is not on me. If I am not accurate do not accuse. As to Personalities I am fully of Opinion with you that I speak too often and too long of which the Bearer of this Letter will give you I doubt not many Instances. To my Sorrow I add that I am by no Means improved in my public Speaking. I have no Doubt that the Instance you allude to is exceptionable and the Party by his own

   Wrong deprived of the Benefit of that Protection which altho given by the Law that is the Consent of Nations does by no Means suspend the Laws of civil Society so far as to excuse a Breach of those Laws. But I am not a Civilian. That I am not a punctual Correspondent must be attributed to Distractions arising from an Attention to Business of so many different Kinds that your poor Friend hath but little in him of the gay Lothario. But you must believe, at least I entreat it, that my Heart holds you dear nor shall any Objects exclude you from the Place in it which you have acquired a double Title to by Right and by long Possession. The American is mine or I am the American which you please.(2) Both it and the Writer have Faults, Alas a great Many. I would that I could See some Person before every Publication. And that they also might be pressed nine years. But they will be forgotten in less than as many Days. I am disposed to meet you considerationally on your own Ground of which the Doctor will certify you but I am only an Individual. I can no longer tresspass on his Patience. Adieu, Believe me most warmly, your Friend, Gouvr Morris

   I received Yours of the 5th Instant by the Post. It would have been very Agreeable to me to have had an in'terview with you when at New Haven but my Stay there was So Short that I could not wait on you at your House. The affair of our Finances is in a difficult Situation, one Committee has made report on the Subject to which Several amendments were proposed, and the whole is recommitted, the last Committee have not reported, and what will be Ultimately concluded on is uncertain (2)_ it is generally Agreed that a time not exceeding twenty years Should be fixed for the redemption of the whole by annual taxes, tis thought by Some that the taxes Should be highest at first and decrease as the money appreciates. Others think they Should be equal as the ability of the Country to pay will increase by means of the increase of Numbers and wealth as fast as the Bills will appreciate. How to lessen the quantity in circulation while the war continues is the greatest difficulty, it has been proposed to Stop

   I am with due regards to Your Self & family, Your humble Servant, Roger Sherman (3)

   I have this moment received from the president of Congress, the inclosed Copy of a Confession of a pilot on board the Flag Ship that was cast away on the Jersey Shore.(1)

   I gave you yesterday the best intelligence we have respecting the motions of the Enemy. I believe we may rest assured that Boston is the object of their destination.

   I shall continue to give you the earliest account we have.

   I am Sir with great respect your most obedt. and hble. Servt. J. Henry

   The Marquis de la Fayette having obtained our leave to return to his Native Country, we could not suffer him to depart without testifying our deep sense of his Zeal, Courage and attachment.

   We have advanced him to the rank of Major General in our Armies, which, as well by his prudent as spirited conduct he hath manifestly merited.

   We recommend this young Nobleman to Your Majesty's notice, as one whom we know to be Wise in Council, gallant in the Field and patient under the Hardships of War. His Devotion to his Sovereign hath led him in all things to demean himself as an American, acquiring thereby the confidence of these United States, Your Majesty's good and faithful Friends and Allies, and the Affection of their Citizens.(1)

   We pray God to keep Your Majesty in his holy Protection.

   Done at Philadelphia the twenty first day of October 1778.

   By the Congress of the United States of North America your good Friends & Allies, Henry Laurens, President

   Attest, Chas Thomson seq.

   This will be delivered you by Major General Lincoln, a brave and able Officer, who goes to command the Troops that are to oppose any attempt of the enemy upon Charles Town in South Carolina. As the General can give you the news of this place I should not have troubled you with this letter, were it not for the following purpose. It was proposed to send 50,000 dollars to the paymaster in Virginia for the purpose of forwarding the thousand men designed to assist South Carolina-Whereupon I reminded the Congress of a motion long since laid upon their table, in consequence of letters from yourself & Mr. Page informing that arrears were due to the continental soldiers in Virginia & the militia that had been called into continental service (1)_And I proposed making the 50, an hundred thousand dollars, and to word the resolve for the purposes "of paying the arrears due to the continental soldiers in Virginia, and to the militia of that state which had been the last year in continental service," as well as for forwarding the thousand men to S. Carolina. This was readily agreed to, and the money (100,000 dollars) is ordered forward.(2) Now Sir, I presume that Gen. Lincoln will, on your application, and showing him the resolve, take measures, by ordering the payment himself if the accounts of arrear are ready, and if not, by authorizing you to call on the paymaster for the money when these accounts are prepared. I beg leave to refer you to the General for our news being in great haste. I subscribe myself wi'th much esteem and affection yours, Richard Henry Lee.

   P.S. Since I wrote the letter on the other side, I find upon conversation with Gen. Lincoln that if the pay rolls of the militia should not happen to be ready when he passed through Williamsburgh, that it would not be in his power to order payment, as he could not delegate his authority-Therefore, I proposed the inclosed resolve which I hope will remove all difficulty.(3) Farewell,

    R. H. Lee.

   In Consequence of a Letter of the 11th of June from the Councill of War, the same was laid before Congress and a Committee appointed upon it. But notwithstanding my utmost Exertions to get a Report as soon as possible, that Committee never did any Thing upon it, one Member of it left Congress, and I at Length got a New Committee, and thro' perseverance I have procured a Report and Resolution of Congress, which I herewith enclose Your Honors. (1) It is such as I apprehend will afford entire Satisfaction; especially when it is considered that the furnishing of Cloathing to the officers of the State Troops upon the same Principle as the Cloathing furnished the Officers of the Continental Troops is approved of by Congress. I felt myself not a little happy that I was able to establish that Point; And I cannot but reflect with some Degree of Satisfaction, that I have never failed in obtaining every Request which I have ever had the Honor to make of Congress in Behalf of the State I represent; and in some Instances I flatter myself I have anticipated their Wishes. This Observation does not arise from Vanity, but from that heart felt Pleasure I take in the Discharge of my Duty to a State who have conferrd upon me repeated Honors, and given to me the strongest Testimonials of Their Confidence-of all which no One hath a more grateful Sense, nor shall strive more ardently to evince it, than your Honors; most obedient and very humble Servt. Hy Marchant

   I have had the honor of receiving and presenting to Congress your favor of the l9th in which came inclosed a letter from Mr. Loring.(1)

   Congress immediately took under their consideration the Contents of these letters and formed the inclosed Resolution of the 21st expressing their disapprobation of partial and Parole Exchanges of Officers, by which you will be pleased to govern your future proceedings in that branch.

   You will find Mr. Loring's Letter within this cover.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   P.S. An open Letter from Mr. Girard to Monsr. de Boubee at New York will accompany this-please to give it safe conveyance.(2)

   Since my last Letter of the 16th by Brown, I have had the honor of presenting to Congress Your Excellency's favor of the 14th Instant.(1) Within the present Cover Your Excellency will receive three Acts of Congress of the 21st Instant.

   1. for granting Monsr. de Vrigny such testimonial of his zeal and services as he is entitled to.(2)

   2. for obtaining a Return of re-inlistments in the Army in pursuance of an Act of the 31st August last.(3)

   3. for obtaining from Sir Henry Clinton a nomination of a proper Person for the Office of Commissary to the British Prisoners in the place of David Franks Esquire confined for a misdemeanor.(4)

   To these I add a Paper containing information received from Abraham Whiltbanks lately from New York. I think he said he left that

   City this day fortnight-his intelligence if true may not now be further important than to throw light upon other discoveries from that quarter which Your Excellency may have made.(5)

   I have the honor to be &c.(6)

   I some time ago recd. the inclosed Account from Mr. Armor who was in the Quarter Master Line at York, but presented it as friendly Agent for the Mr. Sheck who makes the Demand. I did not chuse to pay the Bill without your Approbation & I expected you here soon therefore did not forward it earlier. You will please to direct me about the Payment, or reserve the matter to yourself, as may be most agreeable to you. The Honble Mr. Mathews mentioned his having paid 15 Dollars for you as your Shot on some Occasion either at Mrs. House's or otherwhere; which, I do not, now, recollect. I threw the money down to him instantly in Congress, but he said he would not take it of me, unless it should so happen that you do not return till he is going home. In every Thing of this kind I shall aim to do you instant Credit.

   Sir, I cannot think the Enemy mean seriously to attack Boston.(1) But, so many are against me that I should not be just to my dear Polly if I did not desire your Counsel & Aid to her in Case of an Event contrary to my Opinion. I see nothing but total ruin in her Removal, therefore I would have her tarry to the latest Extremity. She may easily seal up and convey away any Papers of mine that are of the least Use to me or would do her Injury if within the Power of the Enemy together with her Person. I do not think Gr. Britain can risque such an Expedition: and I do not think that her Officers here in America would dare undertake it without her express Order. I believe the Talk of it is to delude the unhappy Infamous at N.Yk who are to be deserted to our Will and Pleasure.

   Your obliged humb Servt. James Lovell

   [P.S.] I hope I have quite escaped from a severely threatned nervous

   Fever. I propose being [abro]ad again Today tho I found [. . .] (2) yesterday.(3)

   General Lincoln is now on his way to Charles Town, to take the Command of the Troops in the Southern Department, he is greatly esteemed both as a Soldier and a Gentleman by all that know him. I Beg therefore to introduce him to your Excellency's particular notice and attention. The General Wishes to consult you, relative to the defense of Charles Town, as he is informed that great part of the force necessary for that purpose must go from No. Carolina. I must also take the liberty to refer you to the General for intelligence relating to Military operations.

   We have received no late information of what is doing in Europe to be depended on. It is said the King of Prussia has obtained a victory over the Emperor. France and England are deeply engaged. I mentioned to your Excellency sometime ago in a letter of the high opinion entertained of you by Congress,(1) and of course the wish of many Gentn. that you should take the Command of what Troops march from our State. Should you Take upon you that Duty you are to have the rank and pay of a Major General which is superior to any officer that will be there except Major General Lincoln,(2) however in this Your Excellency will act, as your good Sense and prudence shall direct. I have the Honor to be with due Respect, Your very obt. Servt.

    John Penn

   I had the honor of writing to you the 18th Inst. & since of presenting to Congress Your Lordship's Letter of the 17th. Last Night I received another of the 20th subjoined to Copy of one of the l9th to General Washington.(1) These shall be laid before Congress at their meeting the present Morning. Continued intelligence of the Enemy's movements will be received with pleasure by the House.

   I have the honor to be, With very great Respect, & Regard, Sir, Your Lordship's Most obedient & most humble servant,

    Henry Laurens, President of Congress.

   I had the honor of writing to you the 12th Instant by Dodd.

   Within the present inclosure you will receive an Act of Congress of the 20th Instant for granting you for the purposes set forth in your Letter of the 25th Ulto. One hundred and ninety thousand Dollars.(1) You will also find inclosed the three Warrants for that sum particularized in the Act and at foot hereof.

    I have the honor to be &c.

    A Warrant on Nathl. Appleton Esqr.

    Commissioner of the Loan Office Boston 70,000

    One on John Lawrence Esqr. Treasurer

    of the State of Connecticut, for 100,000

    Another on John Laurence Esqr.

   Commissioner of the Loan Office of Connect. 20,000

    190,000

   Within the present Cover you will receive an Act of Congress of the 22d Ordering you to the Command of the Confederal forces in the Eastern district, to which I beg leave to refer.(1) Go where you will I intreat you Sir be assured of the Respect, Esteem & good wishes of Your most obedient & Most humble servant,

    Henry Laurens, President of Congress.

   I have the honor of transmitting within the present inclosure an Act of Congress of the 20th Inst. for appointing you Deputy Paymaster General in the State of South Carolina and for depositing in your hands for public services one Million Dollars.(1)

   From the Recommendation of the Delegates of South Carolina, Congress places the highest confidence in you, for the right discharge of the duties of your Office in all respects, I have therefore only to enjoin, in particular, frequent transmissions of Accounts, and Vouchers of expenditures.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   I had the honor of addressing Your Excellency Yesterday by Jones, and also of receiving and presenting to Congress Your Excellency's favor of the 18th with the Refugee Petition to the British Commissioners.(1) This, I understand will appear in print tomorrow, and be prefaced by a private hand.(2) Congress heard it read and paid no other attention to it.

   Inclosed in this Your Excellency will receive an Act of Congress of

   I have the honor to be &c.

   To the Earl of CARLISLE, Sir HENRY CLINTON, and WILLIAM EDEN, Esq;

   Your Excellencies Proclamation and Manifesto of the 3d of October, is the subject of my present amusement.(1) You were commissioned for the sole purpose of amusing the Americans, and it must be confessed, even by your greatest enemies, that you have acted your parts in a masterly manner: The American nation are not a little obliged to your Excellencies for the diversion you have afforded them. This very entertaining Manifesto of yours, is addressed to the Members of Congress, the Members of the General Assemblies or Conventions of the several States in the union, and to all others, free inhabitants of those States; and therefore it naturally follows, that I may with propriety address myself to your Excellencies in return. I would not for the world omit shewing "a just regard to the characters you bear."

   You are pleased to say, that "having amply and repeatedly made known to Congress, and having also proclaimed to the inhabitants of North-America in general, the benevolent overtures of Great Britain towards a union and coalition with her Colonies, you do not think it consistent, either with the duty you owe to your country, or with a just regard to the characters you bear, to persist in holding out offers, which in your estimation required only to be known to be most gratefully accepted." I must confess to your Excellencies, that I think this sentence is full of dignity and elegance; it corresponds "with the duty you owe to your country and with a just regard to the characters you bear." It was not possible for me to conceive, that while you were laying down this idea, that you were resolved "to persist in holding out offers" to Congress and the inhabitants of North-America, which they had treated with the most sovereign contempt. But in a moment, your manifesto convinced me, it was drawn up for the very purpose which it reprobated in the most pointed terms. Your Excellencies are happy in being possessed of a facility in reconciling to yourselves, ideas, which to the rest of the world appear utterly irreconcileable. Great poets are not confined by rules; and your Excellencies shew us, that great politicians are equally exempted.

   You "again declare" to Congress those offers which they have repeatedly rejected as absolutely inadmissable. Could your Excellencies flatter yourselves, that because you persisted in renewing your offers, that therefore Congress would accept them! It is true, some gallants have wooed in this manner with success, the fair being too

   "It has not been," you say, "nor is it your wish to seek the objects which you are commissioned to pursue, by fomenting popular divisions and partial cabals." "But it is both your wish and your duty," you add, "to encourage and support any men or bodies of men in their return of loyalty to your Sovereign." Now if this is not a declaration of your wish to foment popular divisions and partial cabals, I know not what can be; and if your Manifesto was not sent abroad for those purposes, I am at a loss to conceive for what purposes it was issued. You declare, you "think such conduct would be ill suited to the generous nature of the offers made, and unbecoming the dignity of the King and the State which makes them," but you do not scruple, at the same instant, to act diametrically contrary to your declaration "amply made known." By your conduct you clearly advise us to place no confidence in what you say, and yet you go on proclaiming.

   Your Excellencies tell us, that, "if there are any who think," "the independence of these" States "will in the result, be acknowledged by Great Britain, to them you answer without reserve that you neither possess or expect powers for that purpose; and that if Great-Britain could ever have sunk so low as to adopt such a measure, you should not have thought yourselves compellable to be the instruments in making a concession" of independence. Here are many words, let us see what they amount to.

   There was no occasion for your Excellencies to take the trouble to acquaint us, that you do not possess powers authorizing you to acknowledge our independence; because the act of Parliament, on which your commission is founded, had long ago fully informed us upon that point. Whether you expect such powers, is of but little moment. Because you did not expect to receive such powers, it does not therefore follow, that such powers will not be placed in the hands of other persons. The British Commanders in Chief have been changed; and so may the British Commissioners, and for the same cause, the want of success. We see these things, and we then see how idle it is for your Excellencies to endeavour to give to a very trifle, an air of importance. But you add, if you had received such powers, you should not have thought yourselves compellable to be the instruments in making a concession of independence. It is true, nothing can be more legal than your opinion, that you would not have been compellable. But it is not in the least probable, that men, as your Excellencies, who have long been used to obey the directions of their superiors, and who voluntarily submitted to engage in a business, in which others expressly reserved to themselves a power, to disown all their important contracts and to destroy all their labours, I say, it is not very probable such men would be very scrupulous about being the instruments in making a concession of independence to America. However, I need not press this point; you have not said, that you would not be the instruments, you have only said, you were not compellable. When profound statesmen, as your Excellencies, are covert in their expressions, they always have an important reservation. I therefore admit your dictum upon the subject of compulsion, and give you credit for what you mean; nor can your Excellencies desire that I should do more.

   You have declared that your Manifesto and Proclamation shall continue in force "forty days," and that, except Sir Henry Clinton, you have "resolved to return to England a few weeks after the date" of it. And this is a very explicit declaration, that you despair that your Manifesto will be attended with success, it is perfectly decisive. If you expected success, you must have been sensible that success would have required your stay in America several months; but by limiting yourselves to "a few weeks," and forty days are near six, you demonstrate

   Until the publication of your inimitable Manifesto, we had yet to learn, that "the policy," as well as the benevolence of Great-Britain have thus far checked the extremes of war, when they tended to dis-tress a people still considered as your fellow subjects, and to desolate a country shortly to become again a source of mutual advantage." For America then had in her eye, the ruins of Charles-Town, Falmouth, Norfolk, Esopus, Bordentown, Warren, Bristol and Bedford; and the desolations about Philadelphia, on the banks of Hudson's river, in Wyoming, German Flatts, in Jersey, in Rhode Island-a mournful and wanton scene of destruction! America had at that moment also deeply impressed in her mind, the agonies of her sons in the prisons and prison-ships at New-York, where many hundreds died of hunger, cold, suffocation and filth, after having endured the most taunting, pointed and continued insults of their keepers. The wife who appeared at the prison door, with a morsel of bread and a blanket for the wretch within, was beat down with a musket. The officer on the part of America was prevented from furnishing the prisoners with food and raiment. In the morning the prisoners were supplied with water in those very tubs, which were but just emptied of the exerements with which they had filled them during the night. Great-Britain has instigated the Savages to massacre men, women and children. Her troops have refused to grant quarter in innumerable instances. The venerable General Mercer died of the wounds he received after he fell and was made prisoner upon the field of battle, as did Lieutenant Lang, who received no less than nineteen bayonet wounds after he had fallen. I write not at random; I minutely know these transactions, which with many others of a similar nature will by authority be published to the world by affidavits. Your Excellencies, Sir Henry Clinton excepted, may be strangers to these horrid enormities, but they are true. They call down the vengeance of Heaven upon your nation: That vengeance is now shaking your nation to the very centre: She feels the dreadful shock, and trembles in despair!

   It is no less pleasant than useful, now and then, to look into history, and see in what manner men, in your and our circumstances, spoke and acted. The allegiance of Great Britain was in the year 1688 withdrawn from James the Second, because he invaded their laws and fundamental constitution. The allegiance of America in the

   There was a sensible Whig "answer to the late King James's last declaration." I beg leave to shew your Excellencies in what light the people of England in that day considered an invitation to return to a subjection under a cast off monarch. The writer of the answer says, "I challenge all the late King's declaration-makers, to give me but one single instance from history, that ever a free people, who from a just and recent sense of an invasion upon their laws and fundamental constitution, had withdrawn their allegiance from him, did ever afterwards willingly and tamely submit to his government again. No, there is not one instance of this kind, in all the records of time: for, though scarce one age has passed without some remarkable revolution in kingdoms and states; yet a thing of this nature was never yet heard of since the world was." "But to submit the dearest and most sacred things, that a man can possess on earth, the liberties, laws, and fundamental constitutions of his country, all that either he or his children after him can call or wish their own: To submit all these, I say, to a few feeble promises of one that has broke to us much more solemn ones before, were a madness that never a nation under Heaven was yet guilty of. As it is the easiest thing in the world to promise largely, when a man finds it his interest to do so; so it is ordinarily the last refuge weak minds have recourse to, when all other means of compulsion or persuasion fail. But at the same time, he that

   Such were the sentiments of the people of England upon King James's declaration: They are my sentiments upon the present offers of Great Britain; and I believe your Excellencies are convinced, they are the sentiments upon the same subject, of that part of the inhabitants of America, who have broken the force of Britain, and are able to maintain the independence of their country.

   Judge then of the contempt with which we receive your threats, that if we persist in our independence, the question with you is, "how far Great-Britain may by every means in her power destroy" America. Such a declaration on your part, does no honor to your masters, to your nation, or to yourselves. It is an outrage upon humanity. It is a proof of a narrow and base mind. But your Excellencies will do well to foresee, that in case your threat shall be begun to be carried into execution, that then it will be a question with us, how far we shall hold General Burgoyne's army responsible for the effects of your fury. I warn you, that as you burn our towns, so shall I urge to decimate your legions. I say thus much, rather to shew you that we have the means of retaliation in our hands, than because I apprehend you will drive us into such a measure. You have all along endeavoured to bully us; an old custom is not easily laid aside, and therefore you continue to threaten. God has raised us to independence, and we rest assured that Britain cannot deprive us of it. You have tried the art of persuasion, and Governor Johnstone has attempted the art of corruption, to induce us to relinquish our independence. Your arts have failed, your force has failed, and we are not yet, and I trust never shall be quite so mad as to compliment Great-Britain with our obedience. W.H.D.(3)

   A fleet from New York Consisting of 16 Ships of the line & upwards of 100 Transports sailed a few days [ago] with Troops & heavy Cannon on bord, their destination is at present a Secret. Congress are much Alarmed fearing they may intend for the Southward (Chas. Town) which has induced them to Call upon No. Carolina for a greater body of men than I suppose can be raised in time to prevent the Enemy's Designs. Your Excellency will perceive it to be the desire of Congress that you should put yourself at the head of the Troops from your State & should you be inclined to do so, have given you the rank & pay &c of a Major Genl. in the Continental Army. Genl. Howe is ordered to head quarters, and Genl. Lincoln an Officer of great Military merit is Appointed to the Command in the Southern Department.

   I hope Your Excellency has long since received the 400,000 Dollars for Bounty pay &c of the last levies. 150,000 more will in a few days be sent to Mr. Wm. Blount (1) for the use of the Troops to be sent to So. Carolina where One Million more will be sent for the expense of this Expedition. Genl. Washington apprehensive that the enemy may intend an Attack upon Boston, has Ordered on Genl. Gates to the eastward with a large detachment from the main Army. Should the Enemy Appear on that Coast, I suppose all New England will be in Motion. Some among us think this fleet has sailed either for Europe or the W India Islands. Whether N York & R Island will be evacuated by the Enemy this fall, seems at present very doubtful. The Newspapers inclosed will give you an Opportunity of forming a Conjecture of the Enemy's designs, you will find the last Speech and Dying words of the British Commissioners, with the Comments upon it by Common Sense.(2)

   I beg Your excellency will not take amiss, by Once more reminding you of the Necessity of sending on as soon as possible The State Account against the Continent. Ths Charge against No. Carolina in the Treasury Books is 1,075,543 29/90 dollars, when Other States which have had ten times the money expended in them do not stand Chargable with more than 500,000 Dollars. And this entirely Owing to their having a Military Chest established within them & constantly supplied out of the Treasury of the Continent, exclusive of Commissaries, Quarter Masters &c who never Called upon the State for Money.

   27. Octr. Since writing the Above & meeting with no Opportunity of sending it forward but by Post, I have Inclosed a paper of this date. It is now believed the Enemy really intend to Evacuate N York.

   I have not had the pleasure of a line from Your Excellency since my return. I am with the Greatest respect, Your Excellency's Most Obed & very huml. Servt. Cornl. Harnett

   [P.S.] We have procured 10,000 Dolls. to Carry into Execution the Resolve of Our Legislature of the 30 April relative to Supplying Our Troops with Necessaries.(3)

   24. Saturday. Genl. Lincoln sit out from this city to take the command of the Southern Army.(1) I met a Come. at 5 o'Clock.

   Your favor of the 14th of August last I had the honor of receiving and presenting to Congress on the 25th of that Month, with the Account which came inclosed in it.(1)

   Under the present Cover will be found an Act of Congress of the 20th Instant (2) directing the Board of War to transmit to you One hundred thousand Dollars for the purpose of paying the Arrears due to the Continental troops in Virginia, and the Militia of that State called into service last year, and for other purposes therein mentioned.(3)

   I had the honor of presenting to Congress your Letter soliciting leave of absence,(1) and I am directed by the House to express their thanks for your zeal in promoting that just cause in which they are engaged and for the disinterested services you have rendered to the United States of America.

   In testimony of the high Esteem and Affection in which You are held by the good People of these States, as well as in acknowledgment of your Gallantry and Military Talents display'd on many signal occasions, their Representatives in Congress assembled have ordered an Elegant Sword to be presented to You by the American Minister at the Court of Versailles.

   Inclosed within the present Cover will be found an Act of Congress of the 21st Instant authorizing these Declarations, and granting a Furlough for your return to France to be extended at your own pleasure.(2)

   I pray God to Bless and Protect you Sir, to conduct you in safety to the presence of your Prince and to the re-enjoyment of your Noble Family and Friends.

   I have the honor to be, With the highest Respect & with the most sincere affection, Sir, Your Most Obedient & Most humble Servant

   I beg leave to introduce to Your Excellency Major General Lincoln, a Gentleman universally acknowledged a brave Soldier and a virtuous citizen. I lately transmitted to Your Excellency an Act of Congress appointing this Gentleman to the Command of the Confederal Troops in the Southern department. He intends to begin his Journey this Morning, but as he must necessarily delay some time at Williamsburg, and Newbern, it is probable my intended next Letter by Mr May will be most forward. I shall therefore only repeat at present that I am with very great Respect and Esteem, Sir &c.

    H.L.

   I was not a little surprized yesterday at seing a Letter from you to Mr. S. Adams by Mr Archer,(1) in wch you make no sort of acknowledgemt of any of my numerous Scrawls; 14 or 15 have at least gone on the Way to you.(2) I have felt myself lately under the necessity of letting you go by guess as to what we are doing here. Congress have the Papers of the Committee for foreign affairs on their Table, and are taking their own Time to execute any Thing material for you to know; therefore I would not take upon myself to give you any Detail of those matters, further than to say that the Presence of Mr. Deane and Mr. Carmichael seems rather to perplex than clear our Views. Those Gentlemen having been at Variance for a Season and now cordially reconciled, there is a sort of a Task in accommodating the Meaning of Expressions used at different Periods under the Influence of different Passions. The only Results of Interrogatories I forsee must therefore be the Loss of that Time which had better be spent in attending to our Finances. And here, by the Way, I must ask what are become of your Terrors on that Score. Not a Word of Finance in your Letter to Mr. S. A. Do you not know that our Depreciation of Currency is the main Stay of our Enemies. We must immediately Loan 60,000,000 out of circulation & tax vigorously, or we shall be all afloat. Can we not borrow in your Neighbourhood? But, you are a wrong Man to ask. You are averse to Debts abroad. Believe me, it is the general Opinion here that our Sons & Grandchildren ought rightfully to pay a part of the purchase we are

   I have been & am much unwell. I have escaped a settled nervous Fever by Care upon the most violent Symptoms. Writing hurts me. Your affectate. Frd & Servt.(3) James Lovell

   We have received your Letter of the inst. informing the arrival of the schooner Swan at your Port. As you have already shipped the Flour that remained in your care onboard a Vessel for Boston, and the Captain of the Swan does not relish proceeding to Senepuxent to take in what flour & Iron remains there, we have directed the Commissary General of Purchases to give immediate orders for a lading of flour at your port or any other place in Cheseapeake Bay that may be more convenient to the Magazines. You will order the Captain to proceed where he may be directed to take in his Cargo.

   In our last we wrote you to send your Accounts,(1) and now request you will do so as soon as you can. Please to particularize the quantities Shipped in each Vessel and what remains at Senepuxent. We must request you to take bills of lading and Invoice for the flour now to be sllipped in the Swan and send the same to the Navy Board at Boston. We are Sir, Your Obedt Servts,

    Richard Henry Lee Chn

   P.S. We are just now well informed that a frigate and two or three small armed Vessels of the enemy are cruising in Chesapeake Bay which have taken some private Vessels with flour bound to the Eastward. This renders it necessary that the Swan should not be dispatched until you know the Bay to be cleared of the enemies Cruisers, but as quickly after as possible.(2) R.H. Lee Chn. 24th Octr. 1778

   Your Favor of the 24th of May did not reach my hand till yesterday.(1) The Gentleman who brought it, Mr Archer, tells me he had a Passage of Eleven Weeks. I will show him the Respect due to the Character you give him, & properly regard such future Recommendations as may come from you.

   I suppose you have been fully & officially informed of the State of our military Affairs since the Enemy evacuated this City and met with a Drubbing at Monmouth. And as publick Letters will doubtless be forwarded by this Conveyance, it is needless for me to give you a particular Detail of what has happend since. By those Letters you will be informd that Dr Franklin is appointed Minister Plenipotentiary at Versailes. It is not yet determined how you will be disposd of; but as Congress entertain great Expectations from your Services, you may depend upon Employment being allotted for you somewhere.(2) The critical Situation of the Powers of Europe in general, renders it somewhat difficult for us to determine, to which of them to make our Addresses at present. Every Cabinet I suppose is busily engagd in making the necessary Arrangements and preparing for the opening of a Campaign, if War should take Place. In this Case, I should think France must be our Pole Star, while it continues, and our Connections must be formd with hers. In the mean time however, Holland, whose Policy is always to be at Peace, may be open for a Negociation; and in my opinion, we ought to take the earliest opportunity to tempt her.

   The two main Armies at & near New York have been quiet since the Enemy retreated to that City. We have made another Expedition against Rhode Island. Our Arms were not disgracd, though we did not succeed to our Wishes. Genl S (3) behavd as usual with Bravery; but some will have it that there is a Mixture of Imprudence in every thing he does. He promisd himself to share with Gates in the Glory of Victory, and as an officer of Spirit, no doubt he felt vexed with the Disappointment; but he was too sanguine in my Opinion, when

   For some Weeks past there have been Reports here that the Enemies Troops at N York were about to embark, as they gave out on a grand Expedition, and we are now assured that Sixteen Sail of the Line and about one hundred and fifty Transports put to Sea on Tuesday the 20th Inst. Various are the Conjectures of their Destination. Whether to Boston, South Carolina or the West Indies, a few Days will decide. The Count D Estaing has sufficiently securd his Ships in Case of an Attack on them; and if they land their Troops with Intent to march them to Boston, it is my opinion they will repent of their Expedition. It appears to me most probable that the Troops are bound to the West Indies, and that the Ships of War, after having convoyd them to a certain Latitude will return for the Protection of the Garrisons which I suppose are to be left at Newport and New York. The Enemy will be loth to quit the small Portion of Land they possess within the United States; for though they must despair of subduing us by Arms, it will be necessary for them to oblige us to continue the Expence of large Armies in order to nonplus us in the Art of financiering. This may be a Method of carrying on the Contest, the most puzzling to us; but I trust we shall disappoint them.

   The Marquiss De la Fayette whose extraordinary Merit is fully known to you, does me the Honor of taking the Care of this Letter, and will deliver it to you.(4)

   I am, my dear Sir, with the greatest Sincerity, your affectionate, Saml Adams

   Your favor of the 21st was brought to me late last Evening, the bearer of it expresses some anxiety to return without delay, & as I shall not have an opportunity for laying it before Congress till to morrow ten oClock I think it best to indulge him.(1) When Congress lay their commands on me Your Lordship shall be informed-in the mean time I cannot refrain from expression my admiration of the Liberality & obedience, displayed in the conduct of those persons who had captured Mrs. Yards Merchandize, by their gentle surrender of them.(2)

   I have the honor to be, With great Respect & Esteem, My Lord, Your Lordship's, Obedient & most humble servt.

    Henry Laurens, President of Congress.

   Referring to my last Letter under the 23d Instant by Crawford, I proceed to forward to your Excellency within the present Cover an Act of Congress of the 23d for allowing Pay and subsistence to Monsr. Dominique Le Eglise, and for holding him subject to the directions of the Commander in Chief, or the Commander of the Northern Department.(1)

   This, I apprehend is intended as a support for an unfortunate, aged Gentleman, who has lost his effects, and suffered some hardships in the service of the United States, as represented to Congress by Major General Schuyler.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   We have received your favours of the 16th & 27th September and 7th instant. We have directed the Commissary General of Purchases to order his Deputy at Boston to deliver you 1000 Bushels Salt for the

   We are Gentlemen, Your Hble servants

   I should be exceedingly unhappy if you impute the Delay of acknowledging your Favours of the 16 Sept. & 6th Octob. to any other Cause than a great Hurry of Business & Absence from the City on a publick Acct. Last Evening I received your Favour of the 13th Instant & devote the Hours of Rest to make you a Return.

   You may remember we fixed a Rule to be observed in Case any Gentleman was injured in his Rank by our Arrangement viz. That he should apply to the Brigadier & Field Officers of the Regt. to which he belonged & obtain a Certificate of their Opinion which should intitle him to have an Alteration. I have no Doubt but the Case of Mr Bankson & others is as stated, but I fear that having laid

   The Case of the eldest Lieutenant (when a Captain has taken the Captain Liutenancy) having the Rank of Capt. Lieutenant appears so reasonable that we shall recommend it & have no Doubt it will be adopted.

   I was in Hopes that Mentges's & Murray's Promotion had been got over, after being stirrd while we were with you & seemingly submitted to by all except Mr. Lenox who resigned & came away. But since it is otherwise I wish you would converse with his Excelly. upon the Subject. I well remember that conceiving Mentgez to have got extravagant Promotion I had conceived a Design of raising up some of the Captains whom he had displaced, but the General represents that upon the Formation of the new Army in 1776 there was no fixed Rule of Promotion & that any Retrospect so as to deprive an Officer of Rank actually given him at that Time (however, improperly) would unsettle the whole Line of the Continent & introduce endless Confusion, I gave up my Sentiments & concluded it must be submitted to as an Evil. However if it can be rectified with the Generals Concurrence, by submitting the Claim to a Board of Officers I am sure the Committee will concur in any Alteration, but if it cannot be had without real & essential Injury to the Service, I trust the Gentlemen have more Virtue, & good Sense than to insist upon it.

   The Case of the Gentlemen who by the Fortune of War have become Prisoners & now wish to serve again is one in which the Interests of Humanity & Justice are deeply interested & I must frankly acknowledge that I do not see how we can exclude them without a manifest Violation of the plainest Rules of Honour & Gratitude.

   There are many of them who having no Title to enter into any particular Regiment must be admitted somewhere in the Line, or you tell them in the same Instt., that they shall come in, but there is no Place for them, which amounts to telling them they shall not come in at all. If you put them upon the Regiments other than the 1st, 2d, 3d & 5th, & 7th, they will complain of it as an Act of Injustice. It would be cruel to say these Officers have not fought & suffered equally with those who have not been captured-they turn'd out as early in the Cause, if not more so, & now to discard them utterly, appears to me so great a Hardship that I know not how to think of it much more consent to it, & I hope the Gentlemen who are affected so much by it, will on this Occasion apply the Golden Rule-change Places for a Moment & think how they would like to be thus rewarded for a faithful & honourable Discharge of their Duty. We have recommended the Arrangement to Congress on this Principle previous

   But if these Considerations have not the proper Effect upon the Matter being laid before the General & by him transmitted to Congress-I make no Doubt every Thing will be done that is reasonable & proper.

   I cannot but regret as a publick Loss the Resignation of such Officers as Col. Frazer, Col. Johnston, & Colonel Miller & Colonel Robinson. We shall not easily replace them; but as [it] is to [be] expected that the private Affairs of many Officers will call them home, & the Appearance of publick Affairs is now so favourable to the Interests of America, they have the Pleasure of reflecting that they did not leave the Ship till she was in smooth Water, & in Sight of a Harbour.

   I do not know whether the Return of some Gentlemen into the State may not be useful-the Tories are yet unhumbled & the extraordinary Attention paid them by some Gentlemen of Rank both in Congress & out of it, has had a very mortifying Influence upon the Minds of those who have partook of the publick Danger & run all Hazards. Characters are hourly emerging from Obscurity into which they had thrown themselves to avoid Notice, & are now putting in their Claims to those Rewards which are due only to those of a different Stamp. The Stale Pretence is an Alteration of the Government which if to be done by the Whigs I dare say would be attended with little Difficulty, but it is very evident that their Designs are deeper & that it is intended to let in the Tories & Quakers. A Ticket was tried by some you would not suspect, with Mr. Chews Name & others of the like Stamp, but this was too premature to take Effect tho it plainly shews what is intended & what we have to expect another Day. In my own Part provided it is a Government by Whigs I do not care who they are or where they come from.

   I am sorry you have so much Difficulty & Dissatisfaction among the Gentlemen of the Line but it is a Duty we owe them & our Country to comply with all their reasonable requests & patiently to hear their Pretensions. In a Service where from the Poverty of the Country, Honour, & a Consciousness of having made that Country free, are like to be the brave Man's principal Reward I hope none will have Reason to think they are neglected or overlook'd.(1)

   If I can be of any Service to you here pray command me. I should be sorry to miss an Oppy. to shew you how much I am, Dr Sir, Your very sincere well wisher & Obed. Hble. Serv.

   Jos. Reed

   Your several Letters dated as in the Margin,(1) with the Inclosures came to my Hand. And although I have not hitherto acknowledged to you the Receipt of them, I assure you I have been and am still improving the Intelligence you have given me, to the best of my Power, for the Advantage of this Country. From our former Correspondence you have known my Sentiments. I have not alterd them in a Single Point, either with Regard to the great Cause we are engagd in or to you who have been an early, vigilant & active Supporter of it. While you honor me with your Confidential Letters, I feel and will freely express to you my Obligation. To have answerd them severally would have led me to Subjects of great Delicacy, and the Miscarriage of my Letters might have provd detrimental to our important

   The Marquiss De la Fayette, who does me the Honor to take this Letter, is this Moment going, which leaves me Time only to add that I am and will be your Friend, because I know you love our Country and Mankind.

   I beg you to write to me by every opportunity. Adieu my dear Sir, S. Adams (2)

   We have received your Letter dated the 16th September advising your arrival in Georgia with despatches for Congress from Mr. Pollock at New Orleans which have come safe to hand.

   We are sorry the Boat you came in is so very small as to render it too hazardous to return in her. We have given Instructions to

   Abram Livingston Esquire our Agent at Charles Town to furnish you and your people with the means of returning to New Orleans which at present is all we can do, not having it in our power to comply with your wishes by giving you the command of a Privateer.(1)

   Mr. Livingston will settle and pay your wages and that of your Crew according to agreement you made with Mr. Pollock.

   We return your thanks for the faithful and punctual delivery of your despatches and wishing you a Speedy & safe return.

   We are sir, Your very Hble servts

   I received your Favor and return you Thanks for it.(1) The Conduct which the Enemy may pursue with Relation to us is not quite decided. But I have not a Doubt but their Efforts during the next Campaign will be chiefly towards our Frontiers with a View to weary us into Submission. At the same Time they will perhaps endeavor to keep such Posts in our Country as to render the Communications tedious, difficult and expensive. My Ideas as to our Power of carrying on the War differ in some Respects from those whose Opinions I respect. The Resources of the Country may be drawn forth by our Paper at the same Time it must be confessed that this Paper will thereby be less valuable. After all the Debt does not increase for a certain Sterling Sum which would have paid it one Year ago will pay it now. The Depreciation in the Interim hath operated as a Tax.

   I very sincerely lament that this Tax hath fallen heavy on those who have served and continue to serve their country. It is a peculiar Hardship upon us that fully to relieve the Evils they labor under is not in our Power. This leads me To the Petition you mention or Representation which I have not yet seen and never wish to see.(2) I cannot easily express to you how much I was hurt at being informed of it. Not indeed as to the Matter for that I really am a Stranger to but as to the Manner in which it was procured. For in the first Place it gave my Enemies (and who were so in some Degree for my earnest Support of the Claims of the Army heretofore) no small Cause of Triumph. This say they is the Consequence of your Zeal for an

   Establishment. Besides this I considered myself in some Degree as an Advocate for the Army. I loved them from an Acquaintance with some Individuals and for the Sufferings which as a Body they had bravely and patiently endured; and therefore I could not but suffer when I found them taking Steps which In my Opinion cannot do them Honor and which incapacitated me from urging as I otherwise should have done every Redress in our Power to their Grievances. But what chiefly affected me was that this Meeting of Delegates from Brigades in a Mixture of civil and military Capacity carries with it the Air of deeper Design than I believe is in the Bosoms of those who were immediately concerned. It was by Proceedures such as these that the good Fairfax made Way for a crafty Cromwell and that he dismissed a tedious Wrangling Parliament and established a military Despotism. It is a melancholy Evil that when once Faction takes Possession of the human Heart men are hurried into Extremes which make considerate People tremble. I will not do your Army the Injustice even to permit a Thought that they wish to get Rid of their General. But Sir their and your and our Enemies do not want the Confidence to say so and indeed to say they can prove it and to attempt that Proof from the Manner of proving (Agitating as they term it); the Petition in Question. Certainly could such Ideas be inculcated it would answer th[eirl Views. It would also answer their Views to instill into the Army a Distrust of Congress and therefore I doubt not but the Enemies of both are assiduous in this Business. I find also the British commissioners are so barefaced as to hold out the Bait of Promotion in the Royal Army to such as will fall in with their Designs and doubtless a peculiar Portion of their Bounty will be disposed to those who shall sow the seeds of Dissention in an Army which as they cannot conquer it is their only Resource to divide.

   Thinking on this Subject as I do it did and does appear to me my Duty as a good Citizen thoroughly to discountenance every Measure of this Kind particularly when it is ushered as the first Mention of this Affair was to me by an Observation that the Army had it in their Power to do themselves Justice. It makes me unhappy to learn that such Discourse prevails. I am certain those who use it have no Design but they should consider that it affords Matter for the Design of others to work upon. It has not made any serious Impression I believe on the Mind of those whose opinions have real Weight because it is considered as one of those light Expressions which flow from the Luxuriance of Imagination. Little do those who say such things know the Difficulties of subsisting an Army.

   The Marquis will hand you a Plan &ca on which I shall say Nothing because I have already had a great Deal of Trouble with it and he can say more than I could write in a Week and you know more of the Subject than all of Us.(3)

   We have no News. Let me then tell you what has the Merit of Truth if not the Charms of Novelty. That I am Dear General, very sincerely yours, Gouv Morris

   [P.S.] General Lee's Affair hangs by the Eye Lids. We spent one Day upon it without even touching on the Merits. The Debate was in what Manner to proceed to a Decission. Some contended for the Propriety of resolving simply to approve or disapprove of the Sentence. Others for entering into the Consideration of the Charges and the Evidence on them separately without however making an Entry on the Minutes. A third for doing this and making the Entries. This as the most systematic Method I supported for truly I know not how to determine in the Lump. Granting him guilty of all the Charges it is too light a Punishment. And if he is not guilty in the Opinion of Congress of any one there would be an Injustice in not declaring their Opinion.

   Conway hath again applied for a Certificate of his good Services and I have again opposed the Grant of it. His Letter lies on the Table.(4) Again my Friend Adieu.

   Pray Excuse me to Generals Greene and Schuyler for not Writing by this Opportunity. Upon my Honor I have so many Things to do that I am much distrait. Tell Genl. Schuyler however that I shall build if possible the Decission of his Business on that of Genl. Lee. You must contrive some means of quartering your Cavalry at a Distance from the Army. It seems to me all the poor Horses should be turned into good Pastures. Could not some Expedition be carried on agt. the Indians. Suppose for Instance Count Pulaski were sent to charge [. . .] them. It might indeed cost him his Night Cap.

   In Reading the Several letters & other Publications of the Brittish Commisrs, you will observe that they are Constantly Endeavouring to make people on both Sides the water, Believe, That Congress Have Exceeded their powers in Rejecting their (the Commisionrs) offers of Reconcilliation & Entering into an Alliance with France; and that in both of these instances The Congress had acted Contrary to the Sentiments of their Constituents. Whither they are really Deceived by the Tory accounts they Receive from the Several States, Or whither they mean to Deceive others, I am not Certain; But of this I am Certain, that So long as Brittain has the Smallest hope Remaining of these States Submitting again to her Domination, She will never Recognize our Independance & Consequently the war must Continue. It is therefore our interest to Convince Brittain & Every Body else, that the French Alliance and the Rejection of the Brittish Commisrs offers of Reconcilliation are universally approved of by these States: For this purpose I Should think it would be proper for the legislatures of the Several States in this union (as of their own motion without the advice of Congress) to pass Resolves Signifying their Approbation of those measures: And in order effectually to Cut off All their pretences for applying to individual States or persons, To Resolve that the Congress of the united States are Solely vested with power on our part for Contracting foreign Alliances, for making & Conducting war & for Restoring peace, and that They & They only have full power for making peace with Brittain on the principles of our absolute Independance & not other wise; and that these States Repose Entire Confidence in them for those purposes.

   If the Several States would carefully Draw up & unanimously pass Such Resolves, publish them to the world in the public newspapers and Send attested Copies to their Delegates in Congress to be made use of as occasion might Require, I am persuaded that it would effectually cut off all the hopes our Enemies may Still Entertain of their

   I Believe Such Resolves will be passed by Several of the Legislatures, and as our Assembly will likely be Seting when you Receive this, I thought proper just to Hint the matter to you for your Consideration.(1) In the Enclosed papers you will find the Remarks of Common Sense on the Commisionrs Manifesto, also a Geneuine petition of the Refugees in New York to the Commisrs. The petition appears so ridiculous that I Should not have believed it Geneuine had we not had the best proof of its authenticity.

   You have heard I Doubt not that Mr Simpson (2) has the Command of the Ranger & that she togather with the Boston & Providence may be hourly Expected at Boston.

   As my power of Representing the State will Expire next Saturday, I expect to set out for Newhampshire the Begining of next week and hope proper Care will be taken to Keep up a Representation here.(3) I am Sir with great Respect, your most Obedient Servant,

    Josiah Bartlett

   Congress having resolved upon the Expediency of attacking Canada the next Campaign, in Conjunction with the Forces of his most Christian Majesty; and a plan for that Purpose having been reported to Congress; We are directed to send both the Resolve and Plan to You.

   The latter of These we are to request your Observations upon previous to its being sent to Doctr. Franklin for the Consideration of the Ministry of France.

   Be pleased therefore, Sir, to inclose the Plan with your Observations to Doctor Franklin by the Marquis dela Fayette.(1)

   We have the honor to be with much Esteem & Regard, Sir, Your very humble Servants, Richard Henry Lee

    James Lovell

   A considerable Detachment consisting of the new levies left New York the beginning of last Week. It is believed they sailed directly for the West Indies.

   By a letter recd. from Lord Sterling yesterday Morning it appears that the Troops on Staten Island are ready to embark and only wait for the return of part of their Regiments sent on the late Expedition to Egg Harbour. They are destroying their fortifications which puts it out of doubt, that they do not mean to hold that Island this Winter.

   I should be obliged to you Sir to inform me whether the State has any cloathing for their Officers. Their Wants are great and distressing, and unless they are supplied it will be out of their power to continue in the Service. Some of them, I am told are at this time so circumstanced, that unless they have speedy relief it will be impossible for them to do their Duty. To purchase out of their pay would leave them pennyless for eight Months in the year-A suit of cloaths will cost them seven or eight months pay, and when obtained will not last them above five months; in this way many of them have spent their patrimonies and unless they can now find some resources in the public Benevolence, they must leave a Service in which they can no longer exist. If there are any Measures which can be fallen upon, in which I can be of Service, I should be happy in affording every assistance in my power. Would it not be a desirable thing to know the real State of the officers by sending some person to Camp for that purpose. The Men I expect will be provided for; fifteen thousand compleat Suits I am told are now on the way to camp, and materials sufficient in hand to Cloath the whole army.

   I am Sir with great respect to you and the Council, your obedt. and hble Servt. J. Henry Jun.

   Your Excellency's Letter of the 11th of March last address'd to Congress in favor of Don Juan de Miralles, I had the honor of presenting to the House-the particular Affection which you were pleased to express therein for Don Juan, has been justified by his honorable deportment during his residence in these States.(1)

   It cannot but be pleasing to your friendship to be told that the influence which Your Excellency's Recommendations naturally convey has, in this instance, been rendered little necessary by the Claims of the personal merit of Don Juan.

   The United States of North America desire Peace and harmony with other Nations and they particularly consider the prospect of a friendly intercourse between the Subjects of his Catholic Majesty and their own inhabitants as a great Branch of their future felicity.

   The kind Prayer which you have made for our preservation we beg leave to retort in sentiments of the utmost cordiality. I have the honor to be &c &c &c (2)

   The Marquis Fayette left us to day for Boston where he is to embark. This letter will follow him with our dispatches. I wish that a true friendship may take place between you and the Marquis, because I discern in this young Nobleman those principles that I think cannot fail to render him a great Man. And his virtue is such as will make him superior to all those mean and selfish considerations which mark too many. The { disgusting arrogance? } (1) of our { enemie } s is such as { require } s on our { part } the greatest { circumspection } . Even {virtue}t will not do alone, the strictest {appearance} must accompany this, where enemies are numerous, wicked, and inquisitive, and where the most laudable actions may be misinterpreted, and by the artful mixture of innocent truth with much falsehood, can impose on weak

   Give my respects to Mr. Izard and tell him I greatly admire his spirit and good sense. Remember what I have written you about Ludwell, my bark, & Spectacles. Let the Alderman know that his affairs at Green Spring are under the care of an Able Stewart.

   I am most sincerely and affectionately yours,

    Richard Henry Lee

   P.S. I hope our affairs in Spain have eer this had taken so favorable a turn that you will be presently repairing to that Court. The affairs of finance have, with other adventitious business, so engrossed us, that we have not yet been able to take up our foreign Affairs, which will presently be done upon a large Scale. I am going to Virginia in a few days, and expect our brother Frank here to take my place. R.H.L_

   P.S. 27th. I find Congress has determined on something relative to Doctr. Franklin. Your Situation becomes the next immediate Object.(1) I will go abroad this Day tho little fit for Business. Your Honor and Happiness are dear to me and to many others. The Delay of republican assemblies is the only Thing against you. Your Character is esteemed. Your Ideas of distributing the Gentlemen abroad are the ruling Ideas here, and will be carried into Effect I am certain. I wish you had been as free in hinting your own Inclinations as some of the other Gentlemen have been. I doubt not your cordial Endeavors for friendly Intercourse with the different Commissioners, recommended by a Resolve of the 22d.(2) (as before )yr. JL

   Since our last of the 25th instant we have been favoured with yours of the 15th by Captain Barry with the sundry enclosures therein mentioned. We have now to desire that you will with all expedition prepare a frigate to carry despatches to France and we would prefer the Alliance to any other if she can be fitted in time so as not to detain the Marquis De Lafayette and his suit who are to take their passage in her and for whom you will Order proper Accommodations on board. She should be well cleaned & get a Tallow Bottom before she leaves the Port. As the Marquis is A Nobleman of France highly esteemed by Congress as a Zealous and able friend to the American cause we desire you will give Instructions to the Captain to treat him with All possible respect, and not leave his course to Cruize during the passage. You will also instruct the Captain on his Arrival in France to send forward the enclosed Letters to the Honble Benjamin Franklin Esqr Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States at Paris and to inform him of his arrival. He is immediately to apply to the American Agent at the Port in France where he may arrive for any Supplys or necessarys for his Ship and get ready to follow

   We shall very shortly transmit you a Supply of Money for the use of your Department and are Gentlemen, Your Hble servants

   P.S. We have determined that Captain Joseph Hardy shall command the Marines on board the New frigate Confederacy; you will please to order him accordingly.

   This will go by a Continental Frigate from Boston which Congress have ordered to carry their despatches as well as to accommodate the Marquis de la Fayette and his Suit with a passage to France. The Captain will on his arrival immediately inform you thereof, and we have directed that he git his Vessel in readiness to follow any Orders which you may think proper to give which Orders he is to Obey.

   Should you send him back with despatches he will take in any Stores for the use of the States that may be in readiness at the Port where he may arrive, so as not to incommode the sailing or fighting of his Vessel.

   We have the honor to be, Honourable Sir, Your most Obedt. servants. Richard Henry Lee Chn.

   P.S. As the Marquis de la Fayette may have occasion to write by the return of this Frigate, please to let him have timely notice.

    R.H. Lee (1)

   The great affairs of Finance, and the Clothing Department are yet unfinished-the delay of these important matters gives me great anxiety. I have used my utmost endeavours to forward them. I wish another Delegate might be immediately sent from Connecticut-was in hopes Col. Dyer would have come before now. The Committee appointed to consider your Excellency's letter respecting the late Commissary Trumbull's affairs, have not yet made report, tho' I understand they are ready when Congress can receive it. I dont know what their Report will be. The affair of the currency is to be further considered to day.(1) The members in general seem to be at a loss what can be done to restore its credit. The plan that appears to me most probable to be adopted, is to recommend to the Legislatures of the several States immediately to pass acts to raise by taxes about five millions dollars annually for eighteen or twenty years, as a sinking fund, sufficient for the redemption of all the Bills and Loan Office certificates, to take out of currency about fifty millions Dollars by loan, to lay a tax of about twelve or thirteen millions dollars for the expence of the next year; and if further emissions are necessary; that additional funds be provided for sinking them within the time limited for sinking those that are now outstanding; so that the possessors of the Bills and lenders of money be able to make a just estimate of the value of their securities.(2) A note for £100 on compound interest, payable at the expiration of 20 years would be equal to one for £321 for the same term without interest. If the Bills of public credit, so far as they exceed a sufficient quantity for a medium of trade, are to be considered only as securities for money without interest, rebating the compound interest for the time before they are redeemable will determine their present value, and they will gradually appreciate as the time of their redemption approaches. Enclosed is a computation of the annual increase of £100 for 21 years on compound interest. I wish to be favored with your Excellency's opinion on the best mode of establishing the credit of the currency. I expect that it will be referred to the several States to clothe their quotas of the army for the future, and that the Continental clothing on hand, and which may be imported in consequence of orders already given will be divided to the several States in some just proportion.

   There has been a late embarkation of troops at New York, but we dont yet learn their destination. We hear they are leaving Staten Island. Some think they are about to abandon New York and leave the country. Others conjecture they will make an attack on Boston, and attempt to destroy the French fleet.

   We have no late advices from Europe-no letter from Mr. John Adams in France has been received of later date than last May.

   I am with the greatest Respect and Esteem, Your Excellency's Obedient humble Servant, Roger Sherman

   The Enemys fleet of a hundred & forty Sail of Transports with about ten thousand Troops on board Sailed from New York this day week & more it is Said are preparing to take on Board other troops-the above Sailed in company with Sixteen of the [line] & twelve frigats, as yet their Distination unsertain. Some Suppose they Intend for the West Indies, Some think to Charleston South Carolina & others to Boston, [...] of their going to the latter prevails among many, and the Idea is as Much Reprobated by others, I Suppose Somthing will transpire in a few days which will determine their object. Whether they Intend to Evacuate New York altogether, or to Keep a Garrison there is also incertain and the different Reports by no Means Serve to determin, Some are that they are distroying their fortifycations on Staten Island, others that they are building Barracks Near Kings bridg, other Reports are that forts Washington & Independance are Evacuated by the Enemy & now in our possession tho' this wants confirmation. I have wrote you Many letters since I arived at this place tho' have not had the pleasure of Receiving any from you Except one of the 14th Augt. the Recept of which I have before Acknowledged-from the great Depretiation of the Currency & the Rapid rise of Every thing here am Induced to think it has had the Same Effect in our State & that from that Circumstance Mrs. Williams May probably want Some More Money than what I left with her when I left home-if so please furnish her with what she May want it Shall be replaced on my return. I need not ask you to render her Every other assistance she may Stand in need of in My Absence, please to present My love to Magg & the two little boys and tell them I intend to Eat My Xmas dinner with them at furthest for I assure you I am heartily wearied of this place. My compliments to all friends & am Dear Sir yr. Sincear friend & very Hble Sert.

    Jno. Williams

   While we officially communicate to you the inclosed Resolve,(1) the Foundation of which you can not remain a Stranger to, we must entreat you to be assiduous in sending, to those Commissioners who have left France and gone to the Courts for which they were respectively appointed, all the American Intelligence, which you have greater opportunity than they to receive from hence, particularly to Mr. Izard & Mr. Wm. Lee. We do not often send more than one Set of gazettes by one Opportunity, and we hear of several vessels which have miscarried.

   Congress must & will speedily determine upon the general Arrangement of their foreign Affairs. This is become, so far as relates to you, peculiarly necessary upon a new Commission being sent to Dr. Franklin. In the mean Time we hope you will exercise your whole extensive Abilities on the Subject of our Finances.(2) The Doctor will communicate to you our Situation in that Regard.

   To the Gazettes and to Conversation with the Marqs. Dela Fayette we must refer you for what relates to our Enemies; and close with our most cordial Wishes to your Happiness, Sir, Your affectionate Friends, Richard Henry Lee

    James Lovell

   As the Marqs. Dela Fayette will deliver this, we refer you to his Conversation in addition to the Gazettes for an Account of the Movements of the Enemy. He will doubtless gain some further Knowledge of them before he leaves Boston than what we are now possessed

   An exact Copy of your Credentials is among the Papers herewith.(1)

   We wish you Success in this new Commission; and are with much Regard sir, Your most humble Servants, Richard Henry Lee

    James Lovell

   It is unnecessary to say anything to you about the particular foundation of the enclosed resolve;(1) we hope you will experience good consequences from it in a point very interesting to you while in Tuscany. There, you certainly must depend greatly on our correspondents in France for American intelligence, which will be much more frequently sent from hence to them than to you. We shall injoin it upon them to furnish you, and particularly upon Mr. Adams while

    Signed, Richard Henry Lee

    James Lovell

   The enclosed resolve it is hoped will be productive of singular advantage so far as relates to you, who must depend greatly for American inteligence on your Connexions at Paris. Congress have been and are exceedingly loaded with business, and, of late, have met with some singular interruptions in the intended general arrangement of their Foreign affairs, so that they have yet only decided in respect to Doctor Franklin their Minister Plenipotentiary at the Court of France. Our first and most pressing business is the appreciation of our currency. This point accomplished our Enemies themselves

    James Lovell

    28. Wednesday. The Congress spent some time this day considering the State of our money & finances,(1) which I find is very difficult to put upon a Just and respectable footing.

   Since writing my last to you under the 18th Instant I have had the honor of presenting to Congress your several favors of the 18th,

   19th and 24th Instant.(1) The Board of War will take Measures for supplying the Blankets necessary for your Troops. I have receiv'd no other Commands from Congress but to transmit the inclosed Act of the 26th directing the Legion and all the Cavalry at and near Trenton to repair to Sussex Court House and wait the Orders of the Commander in Chief.(2)

   I have the honor to be &c.(3)

   Supposing it might import you to See the enclosed, it was proposed to, and agreed by Congress, that the papers Should be Sent you.(1) If you think expedient you will furnish Mr. Izard with a Copy of them. The news papers contain all the intelligence of this place. We are your most obt Humble Servants,

    Signed, Richard H. Lee

    James Lovell

   P.S. We add two resolves to the papers before alluded to. Mr. W. Lee and Mr Izard will greatly depend on you for American and other intelligence.

   I thank your Lordship for the honor of your letter of the 25th inst. I received it today. There was a circumstance in it which gave me pain: it was your making an appology for not having answered mine of the 12 Sepr.(1) and my pain arose from a conviction that appologies were rather due from me to your Lordship for troubling you with that very letter.

   I wonder in what kind of temper the Commissioners received your present to each of them by the Flag you mention;(2) or rather what kind of temper they were in while they were examining the nature of the present. If I could have stood invisible before them, I think I should have enjoyed their shrewed observations upon the occasion.

   I have now furnished their Excellencies with some provision for their Sea store as I find they are going to England.(3) However, I am afraid it will lie heavy upon their stomachs during the Voyage, but this circumstance is not imputable to me. They furnished the list of stores, & I have only provided them. The President tells me he will

   I am with respect, Your Lordships most obedt. humble Servt. Wm Hy. Drayton

   Your favor of the 13th Inst. inclosing Letters from Lord Balcarras reached me the 27th & was immediately presented to Congress.(1) The House had formerly heard with much concern that Officers of the Convention Troops had, contrary to orders, been permitted to go within the Enemy's Lines, & had ordered an enquiry respecting the Case, indeed it has been repeatedly said, that Gold had been given by several of those Officers in purchase of furloughs, particularly that Lord Balcarras paid to some body One Thousand Guineas for the indulgence granted to him-however groundless or otherwise this information may be, it is alarming at present, & therefore a further & more particular investigation is ordered.

   The inclosed Act of Congress of the 27th Inst. & the Act of the 21st which is referred to will shew, in answer to Lord Balcarras's application the determination of the House.(2)

   I have the honor to be, With the highest Respect & Esteem, Sir, Your Most obedient & most humble servant,

    Henry Laurens, President of Congress (3)

   I had the honor of writing to you the 16th Inst by Brown.(1)

   Congress having been repeatedly informed that Officers of the Convention Troops had contrary to their Orders been permitted to go within the Enemy's lines in order to Negotiate parol Exchanges, or barely on parol, & that such indulgences had been obtained by Gold, have directed me to request the Honorable the Council of Massachusets will be pleased to cause an inquiry to be made respecting such irregular proceedings.

   Lord Balcarras one of the said Convention was a few days ago actually in New York attempting a Parol Exchange & it has been said, that he paid one thousand Guineas for a Permit. This however true or groundless is alarming.

   Inclosed herein Your Honor will receive an Act of Congress of the 27th Inst. authorizing the present Address.(2)

   I am with the highest Esteem & Respect, Honorable sir, Your most obedient & most humble servt,

   Henry Laurens, President of Congress.

   I have the honor of transmitting within this Cover an Act of Congress of the 27th Instant for promoting you to the Rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the American Army by Brevet & for granting you a Pension of thirty Dollars per Month during your life in acknowledgement of your Merit & in consideration of your misfortune in the

   I intreat you Sir, accept my best wishes & be assured that my Esteem & Regard for you do not bear exact date with the affair at Rhode Island; Your Martial Spirit, your military talents, your services in the American Army, were known to me long before that event. I shall ever speak of them with pleasure & be one of your admirers. In these sentiments I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most obedient & most humble servant,

    Henry Laurens, President of Congress.(2)

   I am exceedingly happy to hear of your safe arrival, and I hope agreeable accommodations at Paris. At first, I doubt not, the splendid gaity of a magnificent Court, accorded not so well with the temperate manners of a sober Republican. But use reconciles most things. It may soon happen that you be desired to visit Holland, where I believe they yet retain much of that simplicity of manners which first raised that people to greatness. Our finances want the support of a Loan in Europe. 81,500,000 of dollars with increasing demands as depreciation advances with emission, cannot be cured by the slow working of Taxes. The latter is, I believe, deeply gone into by all the States.

   I have seen your letter to our common friend Mr. S. Adams, and do most thoroughly accord with you in sentiments.(1) The battle of Monmouth in June last, and the subsequent arrival of Count d'Estaing has kept our enemies in pretty close quarters this Campaign

    Richard Henry Lee

   30. Friday. This day Congress published a manifesto & ordered it to be sent to our enemies.(1) The weather is worse.

   31. Saturday. Congress received a packet of letters from France, but there is nothing material.(2)

   I had the honor of presenting to Congress the day before Yesterday the Letter which you were pleas'd to leave in my hands dated the 26th Instant.(1) The House have directed me to repeat their assurances of their great Esteem and Regard for you, and that it is therefore with much regret and concern they are obliged to decline granting the advancements sollicited for Lieutenat Colonel Gimat, Major Noirmont and Captain Capitaine.(2)

   I have the honor to be &c.

   Reproduction of

   Congress' "Manifesto," October 30, 1778

   Your favor of the 20th I had the honor of receiving and presenting to Congress the day before Yesterday-the Treasury Board informed Congress that One Million Dollars had been lately remitted, and would soon reach your hands, and have delivered me a Report recommending that a Warrant issue for half a Million which will be passed this Morning and the Money will, I trust be sent forward without delay.(1)

   You will receive inclosed herein an Act of Congress of the 28th Instant for regulating the Pay and subsistence of Lieutenant Colonel de Vrigney.(2)

   I am, With great Respect and Esteem &c.

   Since my last Letter under the 25th by Van Court I have had the honor of presenting to Congress Your Excellency's favors of the 22nd and 23d.(1)

   Your Excellency will find Inclosed herewith Copy of a Letter which I have written to Major General Gates in Answer to Lord Balcarres' application and also two Acts of Congress.

   1. of the 26th Instant directing Count Pulaski's Legion and all the Cavalry at and near Trenton to repair to Sussex Court House and

   2. of the 27th for granting leave of absence to the Marquis de Vienne.

   By order of Congress I have issued Brevet Commissions to divers Officers as hereunder particularized.

   Monsr. Touzard No. 1>

   Mr., Brice, Aid to the

   Marquis de la Fayette 2 > To Rank Lieutenant Colonel

   Mr. Nevill, another from the 27th October 1778.

   Aid to the Marquis 3>

   The Chevalier Failley 27th October 1778 to rank Colonel from the 17th October 1777 in conformity to a promise made by General Gates for his services at and near Saratoga.

   Congress have added to Mr. Touzards Commission a Pension of thirty Dollars per Month during Life, in consideration of his misfortune in losing an Arm in the late Action at Rhode Island.

   A late remittance of One Million has been made to the Paymaster General, and I have in my hands a Report from the Treasury for half a Million which I presume will be granted this Morning.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   On principles of old acquaintance and much regard, I should have been well pleased to have had the pleasure of seeing you here, before my return to Virginia.(1) It will give me much Satisfaction in my retirement to hear from you when your leisure will permit. The long evenings that are coming on will present you with opportunities of informing a friend how things proceed here. Let me know how my friend Mr Langdon does. As I hope you will be closely employed this winter in forming plans for the increase and regulation of our Navy so it will make me happy to hear that you are proceeding well and harmoniously in that line. My direction is at Chantilly, to the care of the Post Master at Leedstown in Westmoreland County Virginia.

    I am dear Sir sincerely yours, Richard Henry Lee

   I take the liberty to address you (1) on a Subject which to me appears to be of a very dangerous and alarming nature. I am informed that the Inhabitants of a number of Towns in the State of New Hamshire on the East side of Connecticut River, have withdrawn from the Jurisdiction of that State, and joined with the people of the Grants, on the west Side of the River in forming a distinct State. The Strength of the united States lies in their union; they by their joint efforts under the Smiles of Divine Providence have made a Succesful resistance to the power of Great Britain Aided by foreign Mercenaries: but if Intestine divisions and contentions take place among them, will they not become an easy prey to a formidable enemy?

   Whether the State of New Hamshire or New York have a right of Jurisdiction over the New Hamshire Grants on the west Side of Connecticut River, or whether by the neglect of the former to Claim and Support its Jurisdiction against the latter, the people have a right to form themselves into a distinct State, I shall not give any opinion, those questions will I Suppose at a proper time be judicially decided.

   But for people Inhabiting within the known & acknowleged boundaries of any of the united States to Seperate without the consent of the State to which they belong, appears to me a very unjustifiable violation of the Social compact, and pregnant with the most ruinous consequences. Sir I dont know whether you live in one of the revolted Towns, but as you are in that vicinity, I trust from my acquaintance with your love of Order, and regard for the welfare of Your Country, You will use Your influence to discourage every thing that in your opinion may be injurious to the true Interest of these States. If the present Constitutions of any of the States is not So perfect as could be wished, they may & probably will by common consent be amended; but in the mean time & under present circumstances, it appears to me indispensibly necessary that civil Government Should be vigorously Supported. I hope you will excuse the freedom I have taken on this occasion, as my Sole motive is the public good. I am with Esteem & regard, Your humble Servant.

    The president having reminded the house that One year is elapsed since he had the honour of being elected to fill the chair and expressed a strong desire to be relieved & that another be elected in his place; (and whereas the thinness of the house as v)ell as sundry other considerations render it inconvenient to go into a new choice) The house took the same into Consideration & the House being satisfied with the whole conduct of the President (2) Resolved That it is the unanimous desire of this house that H L Esq continue for some time longer (as pres.).

   Yesterday by the hands of our Worthy Freind Mrs. Springer I Received your favor of the 13th Instant, the Melencholy account it contained of the death of poor Jackey Williams has Exceedingly Distressed Me and made me quite unhappy, the agreable account of Mrs. Williams's being in health is the only contrast which could sooth the Mind in circumstances of this kind.

   I thank you for the Intillegence Respecting our Vessels at Sea, Stern's Runing & C. The latter before this is Determined & I hope favorably, the former of Infinetly More consequence I think Much More hazardous. I understand the Enemy have Several Vessels of War now Cruising off Chesapeak Bay & all the West India Islands greatly Infested by their privateers, however we Must Run the

   P.S. If Mrs. Williams has Not yet got her Kitchen Chimmey Run up or a house built for My Sister Priscilla Hart, pray Sir Interest yr. Self in geting them done, the price of workmen I would not stick at, the Season is far advanced & they are Jobs I must have done this fall.

    The Congress of the United States of America, having tried in vain every other method, of restraining the cruelties exercised by our Enemies upon those of our fellow Citizens who by the fortune of war have fallen into their hands, have been compelld to resolve upon retaliation.

   Application having been repeatedly made by us in Europe for an exchange of Prisoners without effect-the promise given by the Minister of the King of CT. Britain-that they shoud be sent as soon as

   You will change the liberal & humane treatment by the example of which you have so long endeavord to reform the conduct of our Enemies, into the utmost measure of severity & indignities that have been or may be exercisd upon our fellow Citizens, or upon the Subjects of our Allies. You will refuse them the indulgencies hitherto granted when taken-you will straiten their confinement-& abridge the quantity & quality of their provisions; according to the severe rule laid down & practisd by our Enemies. No distinction of rank whatsoever must be made between the officers & common men.

   As we beleive that every American will feel as much pain in executing as we do in recommending these Severities, & as the sole object of them is to enforce a due observance towards us, of the Laws of humanity; we are persuaded, that the mom[ent] this purpose is obtaind, you will return to your former humane treatment of your Prisoners, & vie with our Enemies in every act of generosity & kindness to the unfortunate.

   I duly recd your favor of Octo by the last Post, and should have immediately answerd it had I not been that day exceedingly engagd.(1) I do not keep Copies of all my Letters. They are Trifles. You was mistaken in supposing that I ascribd the Independence of America to N[ew] E[ngland] only. I never was so assuming as to think so. My words are that America is obligd to Mass., and this is an acknowledgd Truth. It is the opinion of others as well as my self, that the Principles and Manners of New England from time to time led to that great Event. I pray God she may ever maintain those Principles, which in my Opinion, are essentially necessary to support

   & perpetuate her Liberty. You may see my Sentiments of the Patriotism of other States in the Union, in a Letter I lately wrote to Mrs. A (if it is in Being), in which I relate a Conversation which passd between Monsieur_____ and my self.(2) But enough of this. I love my Country. My Fears concerning her are that she will ruin herself by Idolatry.

   A part of your Letter you tell me is confidential. I will always keep the Secrets of my Friends when I can do it honestly, though I confess I do not like to be encumberd with them. In this Instance I will be your Confidant. But let me ask you-Can a difference between Mr. ______& me, either real or imaginary, be of any consequence to the World? (3) I think not. Tories you say tryumph. They may make Sport of it; but indeed my Friend, it is too unimportant a Matter for a sensible Whig to weep and break his Heart about. I am desirous of making you easy. And I do assure you, that so far from brooding in my Heart an unfriendly Disposition towards that Man, I seldom think of him unless I happen to take up a Boston News paper, or hear his Name mentiond in Chit Chat Conversation. You call upon me by all that is sacred to forgive him. Do you then think he has injurd me? If he has, Should not he ask for forgiveness? No man ever found me inexorable. I do not wish him to ask me to forgive him. This would be too humiliating. If he is conscious of having done or designd me Injury, let him do so no more, and I will promise to forgive & forget him too. Or, I would add, to do him all the Service in my Power; but this is needless. It is not in my Power to serve him. He is above it.

   If you wish to know the Foundation of this wonderful Collision, ask my friend J. W., or another whom you properly call my "closest" Friend. To them I have related the triflng Tale, & they can repeat it to you.

   The Precepts & Examples you refer me to I shall always reverence most highly. I am, with unfeigned Sincerity, Your obliged & affectionate Friend

   I have the honor of informing you that you were Yesterday unanimously elected in Congress a Commissioner of the Board of War and Ordnance as appears by the inclos'd Extract from the Journals (1)_to the unanimous voice I have the pleasure of adding the earnest desire of the House that you will accept the appointment and enter upon the duties of the office as early as your-engagements and private affairs will admit of.

   I Am with very great Esteem & Regard, Sir, Your Most Obedient Servant.

   I Am extremely sorry to learn by your favor of the 29th ulto. just come to hand that you have suffered further mortification by a delay of your Exchange;(1) be assured Sir, neither Congress nor their President are on this account blameable, and that I will tomorrow transmit such instructions to the Commissary General of Prisoners as will remove every obstacle to your residence at home in freedom.(2)

   I have the honor to be, With great Respect & Esteem &c.

   I am just now honored with Your favor of the 27th Inst. which shall be presented to Congress at their meeting to morrow.(1)

   A budget of Manifestoes said to be from the British Commissioners was lately thrown up by the Sea on the Jersey Shore, it contained one Package marked Delaware supposed to have been intended for that

   State, another marked Pennsylvania, the whole number were brought to my House & by me laid before Congress. Congress would take no Cognizance of the Waif; the Vice President of this State declined touching the bundle marked Pennsylvania-if Your Excellency believes that which was possibly intended for Delaware worth carriage, it shall be immediately transmitted.

   I make no doubt Sir of your having heard that a Flag Vessel on board of which was a Lieutt., Midshipman & thirteen people of the Preston British Man of War, had been wrecked some days ago on the Coast of New Jersey, two of the people were drowned, those who reached the Shore alive having no Credentials by flag or otherwise were conducted as Prisoners of War to the New Jail in this City where they remain.

   I am directed by Congress to recommend to the State of Delaware to supply immediately a proper number of Representatives in Congress; for some considerable time past the State has been almost wholly unrepresented. The Honorable Mr. Vandyke having retired on account of the bad state of his health & the Honorable Mr. Chief Justice McKean detained by unavoidable attendance on the duties of his Office.(2) Also to request the State to give Instructions to their Delegates to Ratify the Articles of Confederation;(3) New Jersey will accede in a few days; as Congress is informed by her Delegates & we hope Maryland will no longer delay-the accessions of these three States will perfect the foundation on which the happiness of our general Union depends.

   Inclosed with this will be found six Manifestoes by Congress,(4) will Your Excellency be pleased to distribute these by proper means to public view in your State-Copies are sent to all the Posts of the Enemy.

   I have the honor to be, Sir, Your Excellency's Most obedient humble servant Henry Laurens,

    President of Congress.(5)

   With this Your Excellency will receive my Letter of the 30th which has been two days in the hands of Colonel Gimat; this Gentleman being detained by some prospect of receiving an Act of Congress in his favor in a day or two, I judge it best to forward the public Dispatches by an Express Messenger.(1)

   Yesterday I had the honor of presenting to Congress your Excellency's several Letters of the 24th, 26th and 27th Instant,(2) the former together with the Return which accompanied it, is committed to a Committee appointed to prepare a Plan for procuring Reinforcements for the Army. The latter produced a Resolve approving the reasons for not undertaking immediately an Expedition against Chemung which Your Excellency will find inclosed.(3)

   I shall likewise transmit herewith a Letter of the 24th October 1778 from Nicholas Depui and others and two Affadavits referr'd to in the Letter which Congress refer to Your Excellency's consideration.(4)

   I have the honor to be &c.

   P.S. This instant the Printer has sent in a Packet of printed Manifestoes by Congress, which Your Excellency is requested to distribute by proper means at the several Posts of the Enemy North and East of this place, within these States. Fifty of these Papers will be found under Cover with this.(5)

   The Subject of the enclosed Letter we conceive demands your serious Attention; and we flatter ourselves that we need not suggest to you the Propriety of taking some immediate Step, in Conjunction with the Governor of Virginia, to restore the Harmony of the States of Virginia & Pennsylvania, or at least to prevent the Consequences likely to ensue from this Occasion. We hope that all Disputes of this Nature may be amicably settled by you & the Governor of Virginia, and that it will be unnecessary to trouble Congress upon this Subject. With this View we shall write to the Governor of Virginia,(1) giving him an Account of the Information we have received, and of our Proceedings thereon.

   We have the Honor to be &c, Sign'd,

    Meriwether Smith

    Richd. Henry Lee

   I am no Stranger to the great merit of your late worthy son Mr. Commissary General Trumbull, and my endeavours have not been wanting to procure for his family that justice which is eminently due to him. As Chairman of the Committee to whom your letter and the Memorial of Mr. Hoskins were committed,(1) I have made a Report which appeared to the Committee well fitted to do justice to the Representatives of Col. Trumbull and to produce as speedy a settlement of this business, as the nature of the thing will admit of. A short day is fixed for determining on this Report-and from the reasonableness of it I conclude it will be agreed to. My family affairs calling me immediately away, I set out for Virginia tomorrow but there are not wanting many worthy gentlemen who will press the Report to a speedy determination.

   I am with great respect & esteem, Sir, Your Most Obedt. & very humble Servt, Richard H. Lee

   In your last you ask me What we are doing? (1) Many things indeed. And if you will grant that somethings have been done well, I will frankly confess to you that others might have been done better. I think we do as well as we can, considering the Pile of Business every Morning laid on our Table. In order that the Affairs of the Treasury may be better attended to than they can possibly be by the Members of Congress, who are obliged to give their attendance there in the Hours of Business, we have establishd a new Board, to consist of a Treasurer, Comptroler, Auditor & two Chambers of Accounts, of three each. All these officers are to be chosen from without Doors. Measures are taking for the Appretiation of the Currency. Every Adept in financiering is busily employd, and I hope we shall before long agree in an effectual Plan. We have appointed Dr. Franklin Minister Plenipo. at Versailes, & written a Letter of Credence to our good and great Ally. The critical Situation of the Powers of Europe in general makes it somewhat difficult at present to determine to which of them it is proper to make our Court. Every Cabinet I imagine will this Winter be deeply engagd in making their Arrangements and preparing for the opening a Campaign in Case of a general War, which will more than probably happen. Our Friend AL is in Spain.(2) Our other Friend JA will be employd somewhere (3) France must be our Pole Star, and our Connections must be formd with hers-Holland, whose Policy is always to be at Peace, may be open to Negociation-the sooner she is tempted the better. Spain must joyn with France; but she is dilatory. I wish she would recollect how much she was injurd by it the last War, when she sufferd the Common Enemy to beat France & her self in Detail. The Spirit of Chatham is indeed extinquished in Britain. His decisive Mind might have dictated the Seizure of the Flota at Sea. Perhaps it is well that the Great Man is no more. The Millions are safely arrivd and the Tone of Neutrality at Madrid is become languid. A formidable Fleet lies equipd at Cadiz, which operating with that of France might at this juncture give a fatal Blow to the boasted Sovereignty of Britain on the Ocean.

   The Count D'Estaings Squadron, I suppose will go to the West Indies. If so, Must not the British follow, with a great Part of their

   Troops, if they mean to keep the Possession of their own Islands. They may leave Garrisons at N. York and Newport, with a View of obliging us to maintain a great Army, hoping that we shall be undone by Expences while they utterly despair of subduing us by the Power of their Arms. We must have a respectable Army in the Spring, to put a face upon our Negociations if not to fight. I hope we shall secure to the United States Canada, Nova Scotia & the Fishery by our Arms or by Treaty. Florida too is a tempting Object at the South.(4) Perhaps if you were to show this Letter to some Folks, it would be thought to confirm an Opinion from whence an Objection was drawn against me on a late Occasion, that I am "averse to Reconciliation". We never shall be upon a Solid Footing till Britain cedes to us what Nature designs we should have, or till we wrest it from her.

   The Marine Committee have obtaind a Warrant for One hundred & fifty Thousand Dollars for your Department which will be forwarded speedily.(5) Congress has increasd your Salaries to three thousand Dollars per Annum.(6) I had this in View when I intreated you in my last Letter not to resign your Seat. Nothing could reconcile me to this but your having a Seat here. I am determind to make Room for you by a Resignation next Spring. I flatter my self I can yet be useful to my Country in a narrow Sphere. I wish for Retirement, and covet Leisure as a Miser does Money.

   I inclose a Manifesto on our part (7) I am pleasd with the Act prohibiting the Return of Tories, but I am afraid the Words "Without Liberty first had & obtained from the General Court" will keep an Open Door for perpetual Applications, and it may be unsafe to trust to future feelings. Adieu, S.A.

   This is the fifth letter I have written to you since I received your

   For Gods sake Come in time for me to return home. You know I am older than you are & can not stand Travelling after Christmas, I desire you will make it a point with Whitmill Hill to Accompany you. I shall have a pleasure in leaving him here to represent us. Spain has not yet declared war that we know of-but we hourly expect the event. I am, in great haste, Dr. Sir, Your Affect. & ob Servt,

    Cornl Harnett

   [P.S.] Mrs. House & Mrs. Trist present their compts.

   I had yesterday the honor of presenting to Congress your Letter of the 27th October.(1)

   Had the Gentleman who alarm'd you with an history of Complaints delivered my sentiments in terms which I meant to convey them to him you would have felt no chagrin but rather satisfaction on that account; a detail of particulars at this time would be unnecessary and troublesome. Numerous complaints it is true have been heard from various Persons, of irregular and improper conduct of the Legion, but none since that which took its rise in Germantown have been laid before Congress, therefore such do not amount to a charge.

   I laboured to explain to the Gentleman abovementiond that neither Congress nor any of its Members as far as I had learnt, imputed blame or censure to Count Pulaski, and that from the regard I had for him it made me unhappy to hear that he was censured anywhere for the disorderly behavior of his Men, or the unwarrantable menaces of any of his Officers, and I must impute that Gentleman's deficiency in the information which he gave, to his imperfect understanding in the English Tongue, altho in justice to myself I must observe I took some pains to impress upon his Mind the high sense I entertained of Count Pulaski's Merits.

   Your Letter abovementiond lies before the Board of War, where I presume this of the 26th respecting Monsieur Molion now before me will be transmitted;(2) when a Report from that Board comes before the House, you will be further informed. I have the honor to be &c.

   Your favor of October the 20th is put into my hands just when I am upon the point of setting out for Virginia,(1) and therefore you may suppose me not so well circumstanced for giving you such an answer as I could wish. I esteem Sir, a cooperation with you in bringing to detection and punishment the plunderers of the public as being honorable to myself and useful to the Community. I believe upon the whole, that this Country has suffered more from its pretended friends, than from its open enemies.

   Such has been the variety and importance of the business before Congress, that neither the affairs of Car-m-1 or of D____e are yet finished. The delay producing powers of some men, the destruction of time under pretext of order, and by long confident speeches, that I have never seen less business done in any Assembly than has been with us the last six or eight months. Mr. Izard has written to Congress complaining most heavily both of D____e and F____ n. There appears to me to have been great misconduct, but I hope time & attention will discover and rectify all. It is my sincere opinion that with your powers, and your knowledge of facts, you can cause such instructions to be given your Delegates to Congress as will more certainly and speedily effect this, than can by any other means be done.

   You wish to know how your Delegates have acted in this affair and whether they were for the Viva Voce narrative.(2) Amidst the variety of questions that are propounded in Congress it is not easy to remember what side particular Members take, nor do I recollect whether or not Mr. Lewis was present but as well as my memory serves me I think your State was against the written Narrative and for its being Viva Voce. That matter is a thing determined, and therefore I am at liberty to answer your questions as well as I am able on that point, but many other subjects of your enquiry I could answer to your satisfaction if I were not restrained by the rules of the house respecting unfinished affairs. That large sums of money have been expended in France is indubitable, that no adequate account is yet obtained is certain; and to me the reasons for its not being so are by no means satisfactory. He who undertakes public business without competency is culpable,

   We have a letter written by Cuningham (3) (who commanded the Cutters fitted at Dunkirk, and which have cost the public more than 100,000 Livres) complaining heavily for himself & his people of finding themself the Commander of a private Armed Vessel, when he & they conceived themselves in the service of the U. S.(4)

   Your Favors of Sepr. 23d & 29th & Octr 20 came safe to Hand, the last by Majr. Derick, the next by Majr. Taylor and I suppose the first by Doctr. Johnston tho I do not remember my having seen such a Gentleman. Drawn on by false Hopes of being able to write you agreable Things, I omitted for some Time to answer you and was afterwards hindered from doing it by downright Sickness. I did not however neglect to communicate to proper Persons your Ideas of the present Stage of the Campaign. You are now in a Situation to gain further Insight into the Enemies Views & Designs, by knowing their exact State at Rh. Island. For if they still keep themselves in Force there, they mean to tarry with us till Spring at least. But here let me ask you whether any Chief ever had so little true Intelligence as Genl. Washington? Are not Spies to be had for Money? I must in Justice

   I do not think there will be any Puzzle about Col. Hazen's Regiment.(2)

   You have had a pack of cursed catalinarian Rascals plotting against you. I am not altogether without Suspicion that that that (3) some-mean Practices may take Place in your present Quarters. Chagrin will occupy more Bosoms than one upon your having the Direction of Matters Eastward just now.(4) But I take it for Granted the People will See & know their true Interest.

   As to Flour, Wadsworth [has] the Lives & Fortunes of us all in his Power. I cannot see but the Inhabitants of Boston and other Places must starve. I am sure my own Family cannot eat Bread for the Money which I spare them at the Price extorted for that article. If the State had sent Vessels for Flour for the Necessities of the People there would have been no puzzle, but Recommendations were given to Individuals who may import it and get 1000 Dollrs. pr. C[w]t if they chuse it. I have told my Wife you will help her if it lay any Way within your Line. I begin now to hope we shall better our Currency very soon. We shall do great Things when we get President Schuyler here-Tace-I think that is one of the next manoeuvres.(5) But if our Money is mended I shall not longer be anxious; nor care much Who is here. We do not yet know whether you are on yr. Way to Boston but I cannot doubt it. Be on your Guard against Malevolence; but at the Same Time make all due Allowance for Soreness in one or two wounded Men. People will fret a little when the Skin is off as well as when they have the Gout.

   Col. Harison is chosen of the Board of War which will be managed by him, Pickering & Peters with 2 Members of Congress to be chosen by nine States.(6) The Treasury also is put on a new Footing, so that I hope we shall do more deliberative Business and less executive than formerly in Congress wsh. has been an Event too long wanted. I must renew my Hint about my Wife whom you must help as you did the starving Delegates at York. I missed a fine Opportunity at Baltimore of sending Flour in Expectation of One from this River But I see no chance at either Place now. The Commissary declares he cannot go on in his Line if Licence is given to any Individuals to export. The Recommendations given by our Council tended by a small Supply of the People to give princely Fortune to 8 or 10 Men. Had the Vessels been sent by the public to form a Granary for the People The Commissary could have done the whole and not have been

   Every Blessing attend you and yours, affectionately, J L

   I yesterday recd. your Excellencys two Letters of the 17th and 22d of Octr.(1) by Mr. Collins and find he has brought forward the Lottery Tickets. I believe you will not be troubled this Winter with any of the British Gentry, wether they will totally leave the Continent

   P.S. I enclose the Papers of the Week.

   Le Chevalier Mauduit Du Plessis by whose hands I received your introductory favr. last year is also the Bearer of this to acknowledge the service you did your Country, as well as the honor confered on me in that Instance. To be more particular in commending the good and brave conduct of this worthy Officer would be to sanctify the repeated acts of Congress fully expressive of that Gentleman's high merit not only as to promotion, being raised in so short a time to the high rank of Lieut. Colonel,(1) but also testifying of their approbation of his good behaviour & galantry on repeated occasions of which he is furnished with Credentials. I am respectfully, Dr. Sir, Yr. most obt. & very huml. Servt. Daniel Roberdeau

   The inclosed Letter from Col. John Campbell (1) covered one for

   Col. Campbell complains of the Conduct of some Officers belonging to the State of Pennsylvania, which disturbs the Peace of that Part of the State in which he resides and is likely to produce b[l]oody Effects. I doubt not but that he has given you particular Information of ail the Proceedings.

   On the Receipt of the Letter, (Col. Rd. H. Lee being here,) we thought it best to send it to the Vice-President of the Council, & wrote the inclosed Letter to him.(2) Not having received any Answer thereto, I have only to refer you to it, & hope that you will be able speedily to put an End to those Disputes.

   I have the honor to be, Sir, Yr. most obedt. Servt.

    Meriwether Smith

   The committee appointed to take into consideration the application of Lieutenant Colonel Connolly, request that gentleman will inform them of his reasons for not producing and pleading his commission, at the time he was first taken, and for a considerable time afterwards.(1)

   Upon a Representation from the General, the Commissary General and the Quarter Master General relating to the Distresses of the Army for Provisions and the Certainty of being obliged to leave the present Seat of the War in Quest of them unless effectual Measures be taken to supply the Want Congress have been induced to adopt the extraordinary Measure of appointing us a Committee to take such Steps as we shall think proper.(1) We have to assure your Excellency that it is utterly impracticable to maintain the Army without the Assistance of every separate state and even then there is but too much Reason to believe that the People as well as the Army will suffer for want of Bread before the next Harvest especially if the Exportation or Monopoly of Provisions prevails. At present we have to intreat that the whole Authority of your State may be exerted to procure Vessels for the Shipping of Flour to the Eastward. It is certainly unnecessary to add that as much Secrecy should be observed as is consistent with the Nature of the Business. With the highest Respect, we are, Your Excellency's most obedient, & humble Servants,(2)

    Gouv Morris

    Nath. Scudder

    Wm. Whipple

   I have had the honor in due course of receiving and presenting to

   Congress your Lordships Letters of the 25th Ulto. and 2nd Instant which were very acceptable to the House.(1)

   The Gentleman who is bearer of this has obtained a Permit to go into New York in order to work an Exchange for himself as a Citizen. He, meaning Robert Jackson Esquire, I am informed possesses a large Estate in the Island of Jamaica, he is allied by Marriage to one of the best families in South Carolina, and his deportment in Philadelphia bespeaks the Man of Honor and the Gentleman. He will address himself to Your Lordship, and I have assured him of your humanity and Politeness. I have the honor to be &c.

   I had the honor of presenting to Congress your Letter of October, and I am directed by the House to signify to you the high sense which they entertain of your zeal, Courage and good Conduct repeatedly demonstrated during your service in the American Army, more particularly in the Battles of Brandywine, Germantown, Red Bank and Monmouth, and that at your own request you are now permitted to return to France.(1)

   I Am also directed to present you with five thousand Livres tournois and two hundred Dollars as a gratuity-for the former sum you will find my draft of this date on the American Minister at the Court of Versailles, and for the latter a Warrant on the Treasurer in Philadelphia, both within the present Cover.

   Accept Sir, my best Wishes, that after a prosperous Voyage you may receive the applause of your King, and reap new Laurels in his service.

   I have the honor to be, With much Respect &c.

   I had the honor of presenting to Congress your Letter of this date and I am directed to signify to you that under a sense of your zeal and services in the American Army the House is entirely satisfied with your conduct.(1)

   I Am also directed to present you with five thousand Livres tournois and two hundred Dollars as a gratuity for defraying your expences; for the former sum you will find inclosed herein, a Bill of this date on the Minister of America at the Court of Versailles, and for the latter a Warrant on the public Treasurer in this City.

   I have the honor of wishing you a safe return to your Native Country and of assuring you that I am, With great Respect,

   Sir &c.

   I beg leave to refer you to what I had the honor of writing under the 30th Ulto.

   Your Letter to Congress of the 27th was duly presented, and after mature consideration the House Resolved to make a gratuity to Lieutenant Colonel Gimat of five thousand Livres and two hundred Dollars to Monsr. Capitaine du Chesnoy a Brevet Commission to rank Major in the Army and two thousand four hundred Livres.(1)

   To Monsr. Pontjebeau [Pontgibaud] Eleven hundred & fifty Livres.

   To Monsr. de la Colomble [La Colombe] Eleven hundred & fifty Livres.

   Colonel Gimat has received the Bills for the sums granted to him-for the several other sums you will find the necessary drafts on the American Minister at Paris and also Major Capitaine's Commission inclosed within the present Cover and you will be pleased Sir, to make the proper distribution of these Papers.

   The Treasury Board have repeated that they are unable to make any arrangement of the Papers which you left implying a demand on the Public for Money advanced in the Northern department; they have requested my assistance which I think can add little to their own discoveries, and that their labors must end in presuming on some given Amount which will be paid to your Order,(2) and if it shall here

   One thing still rests undetermined a Nomination of a Person to whom you may apply in case of Doctor Franklin's death or other inability I shall urge the House again this Morning on that point and shall have the honor, I trust, of informing you tomorrow of their Resolution.(3) I am, With the highest Esteem & Respect

   Yours of the 15th of October by Dr. Hutchinson I recd.(1) In my last (2) I mentioned to you that I could have wished to have seen [you and] the Business of your Depar[tment have] allowed you to have visited this City. I think the Heads of Departments should now and then put themselves near Congress-Much advantage might result thereby. The Members might be better informed of the Situation & wants of the Departments, and you would more clearly see the Views & Wishes of Congress, and be perhaps usefully informed of many Matters, and abuses, which reach Our Ears; if not as a Body [then as] individuals. That there are some [. . .] Abuses in all the Departments, I am sure of, and Ld. Chesterfields Observation can hardly be admitted. For I believe the Frauds and Abuses are infinitely beyond what they are known to be. We are in the pursuit of some few, tho' of a deep die. The Complaints in Maryland & Delaware are of the most grievous abuses of Swarms of Deputy Quarter-masters, or such as pretend to be so-assistants, Deputy assistants &c &c. Their Insolence & [. . .] upon the People. One Letter [. . .] Congress immediately to take into Consideration the Grievances they labour under, that the great Disproportion of disaffected in that State, are increased by these People and even good Whigs staggered. That the publick Monies are in private use may not be doubted of. And Men will do well to consider how they will support a Character with the Publick, who while they hold important offices under Congress with great Perquisites and

   I expect to return in about a fortnight; I shall be happy to meet you on my Way, but fear you'l be rather too far Northward. I am Dear Sir, yr. Friend & Servt. Hy. Marchant

   The Bearer Mr. Seagrove this day informed me that he should set out tomorrow for the Southward and that he had some business to Transact at New Bern. I have taken the liberty to introduce him to your Excellency as a Stranger.

   Inclosed I send you a Copy of the aliance Between France and the United States.(1) There are a considerable number to be printed for the use of the different States. I thought it my duty to inform you of the Treaty as soon as I was at liberty to do it. The reason why it has been kept back, was, that we have directed our Minister in France to apply to that Court to strike out the eleventh and twelfth articles.(2)

   By our last accounts from Europe Spain has a large Fleet ready to act, her Flotas have got home & that Court seem disposed to act vigorously against Britain; in a short time.

   From General Washington's letter this minute read it appears that the enemy intend to evacuate New York soon,(3) a very large number of the Troops having gone on board Transports.(4)

   The Delegates from No. Carolina intend to write to your Excellency soon, an official letter, they only wait the determination of Congress relative to a matter of a public nature, which I expect will be in a day or two.(5) I have the honor to be with great respect, Your Excellencys Mo. ob. Servt. John Penn

   Mr. Saml. Curson Junr. Son of Mr. Curson whom you must have known in New York has desired me to request your Permission to meet his Brother in Law Mr. Seton upon the Lines in Case the Enemy will permit him to come out.

   This Young Gentleman, Since the Commencement of the War, has been settled at St. Eustatius from which Place he has sent very Considerable Supplies of Arms, Ammunition &ca. to Congress, and has manifested an Unequivocal Attachment to our Cause.(1) His long Absence from his near Relations and his Apprehension that some of them may quit New York with the Enemy, before he has an Opportunity of seeing, or Enquiring particularly after them, makes his [him] Anxious for this Interview. You will therefore gratify an amiable Young Gentleman, and oblige a Friend in complying with this Request-which I suppose will not be inconsistent with your Line of Duty.

   As I have resigned my Seat in Congress, and Expect daily a Notification on the Part of the State of the new Delegation, I shall as soon it is received measure my Steps homewards, and on my Way spend three or four Weeks with my Friends in New Jersey.(2) I know it will give you pleasure to find that by the taking of Dominica from the French the most Considerable Part of my Fortune wh. was in great

   Jeopardy, has reverted to its old master-I am, My Dear Lord, With Affectionate Esteem, Yours, Wm. Duer

   I had the honor of presenting to Congress your Letter of the 15th Ulto. together with a Plan for negociating a Loan in Holland which the House have duly considered and have directed me to return their thanks for your zeal in the service of the United States and to inform you that Congress have not yet prepared to enter upon a Negociation for the Loan which you have suggested.(1)

   The Plan according to your desire will accompany this. Congress have granted a Brevet Commission of Lieutenant Colonel to Mr. Dircks.(2) I have the honor to be &c.

   Since my last Letter under the 1st Instant, I have had the honor of presenting to Congress Your Excellencies favors of the 29th and 31st Ulto. together with the Papers which accompanied each, the former is committed.(1) Doctor Connellys' case has been long submitted to a Committee and I am told a Report will be made very soon. I sent Your Excellency's Letter to him in Goal.(2)

   Inclosed with this Your Excellency will receive Copy of a Letter from the State of New Jersey without date, but it came to hand the 1st Instant. Congress desire you Sir, to consider the subject matter of that Letter and to take such Measures thereon as to you shall appear necessary.(3)

   I have by Order of Congress Commissioned Major Diricks by Brevet to rank Lieutenant Colonel.

   Captain Capitaine du Chesnoy to rank Major by Brevet. Both these gentlemen are going to Europe immediately. I have the honor to be &c.

   I am to inform your Excellency that Congress have lately arranged their Treasury, appointed a Comptroler and Auditor General of Accompts and two Boards of Commissioners of Accounts, who are to settle and adjust all Accounts deliver'd to them by the Comptroler Genl. That those Commissioners should be appointed from as many different States as possible was highly necessary, and I conceived it my Duty to nominate a gentleman from our State. I knew Mr. Peter Phillips had been long acquainted with the Nature of Army Accounts, I knew him to be a Man of Integrity, and tho' his Services might be wanted at Home, yet I conceived he might be more beneficial here in that Department, and as he was a single

   Man, he might remove with more Ease than many others. I trust this Nomination and appointment will not be disagreable to the State, nor to him.(1) If your Excellency shall be of my Opinion, I hope you will see him yourself and use your Influence with him to accept. I need not suggest to you Sir that the settling of the publick Accounts is a Matter of great Consequence, and as there are but two Gentlemen appointed Commissioners from the Eastern States, I think it of Importance that those should serve; as the Nature of the Accounts in the different Parts of the Continent are very different in many Instances, it is highly necessary that Persons from those different Parts should be in Commission, that such Explanations may be made as that Justice may be done to the several States as well as to the whole. I hope I need not add upon this Subject. I inclose you a Letter to Mr. Phillips,(2) your Excellency will be so kind as to see that it is deliverd, I could wish you could deliver it with your own Hands, that you might converse with him at the same Time upon the Subject of it.

   Expecting to set out on my Return in about a fortnight I remain, Your Excellencys most obedt. and very humble Servt.

    Hy Marchant

   P.S. Novr. 11th, 1778. Mr. Ellery arrived last Sabbath. I expect to set out next Week. I enclose you the Papers of the Week, and the Plan of the Arrangement of the Treasury.

   We are informed by Letter from William Smith Esqr. our Agent at Baltimore that a Sloop called the Friendship, Edward Freeman Master, on which he had shipped some flour for the use of the Navy in the Eastern Department, and the Commissary of Purchases had laded the remainder of her Cargo for the use of the Army, had been seized by the Naval Officer of your State at Baltimore.

   We are now to inform your Excellency and Council that having conferred with the Commissary we find the Cargo of Said Vessel to be entirely public property, Shipped by our Agent afsd. by order of this Committee and by the Commissary General of Purchases who are fully authorized by Congress for that purpose. We therefore

   We have the Honor to be, Your Excellencys obedt servants

   7. Saturday. I received a number of Resolutions from our Court, one appointg. me a delegate from our State & some instructions, &c.(2) The weather is warm.

   I troubled your Lordship with a few lines the 5th Instant by Mr. Jackson.

   The same Morning I had the honor of presenting to Congress your Lordship's Intelligence under the 3d Instant respecting the movements of the Enemy:(1) we hope soon to learn of their total disappearance.

   I detained this Messenger a day, hoping to have conveyed by his hands Dispatches of importance for the Commissary General of Prisoners.

   I have nothing to offer your Lordship but the two latest Newspapers, and the repeated assurance of being, With very great Respect & Esteem, Sir, Your Obedient and Most Humble Servant.

   My last was under the 22nd of October, since which I have had the honor of presenting to Congress your favor of the 30th of that Month, together with Mr. Commissary Dick's of the 29th. I was in hopes Congress would have enabled me to have returned a decided Answer to the subject matter of that Letter by the present Messenger, but it still remains in the hands of a Committee, you shall be immediately informed when the business is matured, in the meantime I return you herewith a Copy of Mr. Dicks' application; the Original is with the Committee-I apprehend the only answer you have to make to Mr. Dick at present is that you have received no directions from Congress.(1)

   I am sorry to find the exchange of the Honorable Mr. McKinley has been delayed by loss or miscarriage of the Act of Congress of the 14th of September which a particular friend of that Gentlemans undertook to convey in a proper manner for the purpose intended; You will receive with this a Copy of the Act, and will take the most speedy and effectual measures to carry it into execution.(2) I have the honor to be, Sir, Your Obedt. Humble Servt.

   I had yesterday the honor of presenting to Congress Your Excellency's favor of the 4th Inst. & received an Order from the House to request that Your Excellency will call the General Assembly together as early as possible. This will more fully appear by an Act of Congress herein transmitted.(1)

   It is the earnest desire of Congress that the Assembly may attend to the Articles of Confederation immediately after their Meeting & be decided in their Instructions to their Delegates.

   I have the honor to be, With very great Esteem & Respect, Sir, Your Excellencys Most obedient & humble servt.

    Henry Laurens, President of Congress.

   The Minister of France having applied to this Committee for the use of a small Vessel to precede the French frigate Chimere down the

   Bay of Delaware for the purpose of reconnoitering; and as it is not in our power to furnish a suitable Vessel, we request the favour that you would order the State Sloop commanded by Captain Wade, to go on this service when required, of which we shall give him notice.(1)

   We shall pay any expences that may arise during the time we have the loan of the Sloop, and shall thankfully acknowledge the favour.

   We have the honor to be, Gentn, your most obed. Servt, By order of the Committee, S. Adams

   I am a little apprehensive that some of my Friends will consider Silence to their Letters, wch an indifferent State of Health & much Fatigue has for some Time rendered inevitable, as an abatement of Friendship, but conscious of the sincerest Esteem for my Friend General Warren & having long experienced his Candour, I flatter myself he will consider such omissions, as they really are, the Effects of Necessity. I shall trouble You with little in Answer to your several Favours of the 13th May, 7th July, 4th August, & 3d September last,(1) as their early Dates renders it unnecessary. The Marine Commee, I presume, have taken the proper Steps to do Justice to Capt. Manly,(2) the Bravery of this Officer seems not to be questioned, but many appear to Want Confidence in his Abilities & Experience, & on that Ground oppose his being high in office: I presume not to judge of their Motives & Designs on this Occasion, or without further Information, of his Character as an Officer. I am much concerned to find, that You intend to quit the business of the navy Board,(3) as it will be soon an important & respectable Department. Under the present State of Affairs it is impossible to do Justice to the Commissioners, but Congress have increased their Salary to 3000 Dollars per Year (4)-Perhaps you consider the Levity of the Times as an Argument for Quitting the Service, if so, I will readily acknowledge that the Vices of some & Follies of others are very displeasing; but in a Revolution like the present, neccessarily producing an entire Change of the Governments & Constitutions of thirteen States, the Suspension of Law & Justice, the Want of necessary Arrangements for preventing Frauds, & the most favorable oppertunities for Speculators & Engrossers, it

   Adeiu my Dear sir after receiving my Warmest Wishes for the Health & Happiness of your Lady, self, & Family & beleive me to be your sincere Friend & hum Servt, E. Gerry

   Since my last of the 9th of August, I had often urged Congress on the subject matter of yours of the 1st of that Month meaning more particularly the appointment of a Garrison Chaplain. At length, after

   I had the pleasure of Captain Redman's Company once since he came to town. He left very favorable impressions on my Mind, and I shall be glad to see him again.

   It is too probable that such an itinerant Committee as you recommend would have happy effects.(3) The necessity even for a suggestion of this nature is mortifying, and carries with it a severe reflection on those who are squandering and peculating while Members of Congress are laboring without fee or reward every day through the Year in the same Cause. I am nevertheless much obliged to you Sir, for the hint, and will endeavour to improve it.

   Captain Powell tells me he takes with him all the late Newspapers. These contain our present Intelligences from New York. Therefore I will not detain you further than to repeat the assurance of being, With great Respect & Regard

   On my arrival here the 4th inst. I had the pleasure of receiving Your favor of the 31 Ulto at the hand of Our Mutual Friend Mr Adams. I Esteem myself highly Obliged by this token of Your remembrance, but should have been much Happier to have found you here. May I hope my loss will in some measure be made up by frequently

   You may be assured my attention will be much engaged in Marine Matters, & it will afford me perticular satisfaction to cooperate with you in that Business when you return here, which it is my sincere wish Your business may speedily admit of. (1)

   I left Mr. Langdon very well the 20th Octo. He very peticularly desired his respects to you.

   Please to make my most respectful Compliments to Your Good Lady, who I hope will so far retract her promise, as to give me an opportunity (when peace is happily Established) to introduce her to such persons in Portsmouth as will be very happy in having an opportunity of making a visit to that Cuntry agreeable to her.

   I have taken up my Quarters at Liberty Hall where you know is a set, well agreed in Political Sentiments, & I think I may say with great certainty that they are as well agreed in sentimen[ts] of Esteem & Respect for you. I anticipate the pleasures of some long winter Evenings where with a Social pipe and Friendly Glass we shall call to mind our worthy Friend & Heartily join in wishing he may soon add to our little Circle.

   I have nothing new at present to give you, whenever any thing happens that I think will give you pleasure be assured it will be a double pleasure to me to communicate it.

   I am dear Sir with the utmost Sincerity, Most Respectfully Yours, Wm. Whipple (2)

   I have receivd your favor of the 7th of October by Mr. Dod. I cannot say that I am by any Means pleasd with the inclosd Letter to _____ .(1) I am glad however that you allowd me the Perusal of it before its Presentation. I consider the Confidence you place in me in this Instance as sufficient to warrant me in delaying to deliver it, till I shall hear further from you, which I will accordingly do in hopes that you will alter your Determination.

   We now begin to hope for Peace soon on our own Terms; or if the War should continue longer, that it will be conducted in such a Manner as will render a large Army less necessary, which will enable us to be at greater Expense for an American Navy; the building up of which is looked upon by all wise and good Men whom I converse with as necessary and highly important. General Whipple is again returnd to Congress; and as he is a Man of Sense and great Experience in Marine Affairs, and was formerly of the Marine Comte., I was sollicitous that he should again be of the Number. Congress have added him to the Committee, and I hope he will act as Chairman during the Absence of Col. Lee who is gone to Virginia. From several Hints which Genl. W. has dropt to me, I am in Hopes that Measures will be come into which may add Weight to your Board & facilitate the Business of it.

   The Navy Boards especially that in the Eastern Department where it is probable there will constantly be a great Resort of our Ships of War, will be standing Boards, and of the greatest Importance to the United States. The best Men must fill those Places. I will not, least you should think me indelicate, add more on this Subject, than my earnest Request that you will for the present suspend your Resignation.

   I am glad that you have discoverd the Mistake you mention, and will communicate it.(2)

   The Picture, my dear Friend, which you give me of my beloved Native town mortifies me greatly. I had the Vanity to think she would afford Examples of Industry, Frugality, Temperance & other publick Virtues. I fear with you that we have lost our Labour. When ambitious Men aim at establishing a Popularity by confounding the Distinction between Virtue and Vice and through the Degeneracy of Times they can effect it, the People will tamely submit to a Master. Adieu.

   Inclosed with this I have the honor of transmitting you an Act of Congress of the 7th Instant for laying before the Supreme Executive Council of the State of Pennsylvania a Letter of David Franks dated the 18th of October last, and the minutes of the proceedings of Congress thereon, together with the said Letter and Minutes.(1) I have the honor to be &c.

   We have been favoured with yours of the 19th & 28th Ultimo the latter of which containing many important matters we shall take time fully to deliberate upon and will make it the subject of a future Letter.(1) Your reasons for leaving the Ranger at Portsmouth meets our intire approbation.

   We have already expressed our wishes for the Speedy equipment of all our vessels, and we doubt not your best exertions will be used for that purpose-if they can be got ready to sail in time the force will be greater than any we have yet been able to send out, and we have Sanguine expectations that something may be done of consequence to make up for the bad success that hath hitherto attended our Navy. To enable you to go on with the business we now Send

   Pray inform the Marquise Delafayette that he is at Liberty to take such Gentlemen with him on board the frigate in which he is to take his passage to France as he may think proper, & if agreeable to him particularly Lt. Colonel Duplessis who is desirous of taking a passage with him. We shall shortly write to you again and in the mean time are with great regard, Gentlemen, Your very hble Servants

   I have been unwearied in my Endeavours to serve your Interest and that of the other Gentlemen concerned with me, as was my duty, and could I do more, I should not beg[r]udge my labour, as I should not doubt it's issuing in an ample reward to us all. You may yet depend on my utmost exertions, but be assured without the cooperation of both yourself and Mr. Cockey, one of you to be constantly at the Works,(1) until they are fairly put a going, and in the necessary supplies of Provisions &c way without a vigorous cooperation of you both in so arduous a business, I plainly foresee they will come to nothing, or the profits which would arise with ceconomy will be absorbed with Expence. I believe it is the loss of many thousands that Mr. Bedwell did not accept my first offer and superintend the building of the first furnace, but by every account he is now acting with great deligence, but he must be kept in his sphere and one of the Owners, at least, constantly employed in procuring live Stock, Wiskey, Flour &c &c &c and in seeing them transported, otherwise it is too obvious to need any argument to prove it that his being employed in any other way than in the Business more immediately committed to him, would be ruinous to our Scheme. A second furnace (a blast furnace) is building, or built by this time and [whether] it will not be ruined thro ignorance, as the first was, I cannot say, as Mr. Bedwell does not pretend to understand working one of that Construction, besides if

    Danl. Roberdeau

   Your letter No 1 is just come to hand. I could have wished you had given me some account of the cartel that arrived from York the day I set out. I found on my arrival here money had been sent you from the Commercial Committee.(1) What you have for the use of the Navy must go through the Commissioners at Boston at present. I find Congress exceedingly pressed with business-the great object is finance-you will (I hope) soon hear what is done in that matter. In the mean time it is the duty of every individual to endeavor to keep up the value of the money. Every movement of the enemy at York seems to indicate their intention of leaving that place.(2) I have not been able to do any thing yet respecting the Ranger, but hope shall by next post. Every kind of thing is rising here with an unparallelled rapidity-flour is got to 20 dollars and wheat 30/. I could wish to give you a particular account of things here, but time will not permit me. Adieu. your friend &c. Wm Whipple

   We are honoured with your Excellency's Letter of the 2d Inst. by Messenger Brown.

   The Treasury arrangement we herewith transmit your Excellency; and have the pleasure to inform that the choice of Colo. Trumbul to the head of it was unanimous.(1)

   The equally alarming & embarrased subject of Finances, is yet under consideration. Congress we trust however, are nearly ripe for resolutions respecting them, which may be salutary if not decisive. A foreign Loan, how elligible soever in our present circumstances, we have yet no assurance can be obtained, & from the present warlike appearances in Europe have perhaps less reason than heretofore to expect it. Establishing a fund by taxes for sinking in process of time the capital debt, & by taxes & an internal Loan taking out of circulation some of the past Emissions to make way for future ones, is all therefore we are certain at present of being able to do. A rapid appreciation is not from hence to be expected, nor perhaps wished for.

   The Committee on your Excellencies Letter of the 8th of October (2) reported in favour of a Commission to be allowed of half per Cent. This mode of allowance some members objected to as having been found pernicious & improper in their opinion to receive the farther countenance of Congress in any case whatever; tho they wished ample justice to be done in this Case & seemed fully sensible it had not been heretofore. The Letter on motion was recommitted to the same Committee who wait a favourable oppertunity of reporting again in favour of a gross sum which they hope will be accepted & do justice. The fate of their second report your Excellency will be informed of the earliest oppertunity.

   Congress have no late foreign intelligence. A Letter from Commissary Loring at N York recd. this day, promises immediately to send out the officers now due to us, & proposes the exchange of the remaining ballance of our officers in their hands for their privates in ours; & that Commissioners be appointed to meet & adjust the matter & settle a full & complete exchange as soon as can be done.(3)

   We are Sir, with great Respect, your Excellencys most obedt. & humbe Servants, Roger Sherman

    Oliver Ellsworth

   I had the pleasure of arriving here after a comfortable Journey last Sunday in the forenoon.(2) The ride was rendered much more agreeable than it would have otherwise been, by the good behaviour of my waiter. Indeed Hayford's conduct was so very clever that it would give me much pleasure to hear that he was moved out of the rank of a common Soldier. I know nothing of his military abilities but if they are equal to his honesty and activity he certainly deserves promotion.

   We have nothing new. I am at Stephen Collins's who sends his regards to you. Heartily wishing you success I am, Yr. very humble Servt, Wm. Ellery

   I had the honour of receiving Your Excellency's Favour of the 26 October yesterday evening. The Post setting out this morning & Congress being met, puts it out of my Power to write a long letter. By every intelligence lately received from New York, Tis immagined the Enemy intend the total evacuation of that Post. I have still my doubts. A Fleet of 108 Sail left That place the 3 Instant Composed of Men of War & Transports full of Troops. Some think they are bound to the Eastward, some to So. Carolina, others to the West Indies.

   I fear Mr. Hunt will not be able to put the Accounts of Our State in proper Train for a general Settlement. I wish it could be Effected as soon as Possible. I make no doubt Your Excellency has 'ere this received the 400,000 Dollars-150,000 more will be sent off in a few days. Congress have much at heart the routing that nest of Pirates at St. Augustine, & have great expectations from your Excellency's Exertion.(1)

   Flags of Truce are thought dangerous, as they Often bring Seditious papers in order to distribute them amongst the People.(2) You will no doubt Sir endeavour to prevent the ill use which may be made of these kind of Sanctions.

   I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect Your Excelly's mo. Obed. humb. Servt. Cornl. Harnett

   I had the honor of writing you a Line under the 7th Instant & since, of receiving Your Lordship's favor of the 5th which I read to Congress yesterday.(1) I thank you for the New York Papers & in company with this transmit three or four of this day's Packet in which I perceive a Letter to Sir Hr Clinton which possibly the Knight may be glad to peruse before he leaves New York (2)_ this however is not the wish of, My Lord, Your most obedient & Most humble servant,

    Henry Laurens, Private.

    I had the honor of writing to you Yesterday by Messenger-a light Horseman from Lord Stirling.(1)

   Within the present inclosure you will receive the undermention'd Papers to which I beg leave to refer for your government.

   1. An Act of Congress of the 7th Instant for the temporary supply of British Prisoners.

   2. Extract of a Letter from Sir William Howe to General Washington l9th January 1778 on the subject of supplies of Provision to American Captives in Philadelphia.

   3. The Paper referred to by General Howe.

   4. An Act of Congress for enabling the Commissary of Prisoners to give an Answer to the peremptory requisition of Admiral Gambier in a Letter from Mr. Dick for the surrender of Lieutenant Hale & others who were wreck'd in the Hotham Sloop.(2)

   5. An Act of the 16th October for punishing by confinement Persons who shall presume under the sanction of a Flag to disperse the Manifesto of the British Commissioners calculated for stirring up animosities, dissentions and Rebellions among the good People of these States, which you are to transmit to Admiral Gambier.

   I likewise return Mr. Dick's original Letter-I perceive the Secretary has only given me the Cover of Mr. Dicks' Letter-'tis too early to mend the mistake this Morning; the Letter shall be in my next. I send you two of this days Papers. I Am &c.

   Since my last address under the 22d October by Jones I have had the honor of presenting to Congress your sundry favors of the 13th, 21st, 29th & 29th of that Month.(1) The first was Committed to the Committee on Ensign Brown's case (2) who have not yet reported, nor have the Board of War to whom the second was referred.

   In answer to the general contents of the two latter I beg leave to refer you to an Act of Congress of the 9th Inst. for indulging Major Harnage; Capt. Hawker, Mrs. Reynolds, her Children & servants as far as circumstances will admit of, which Act you will receive under the present cover accompanied by an Act of the 21st October for regulating

   On the 7th Instant I had the honor of delivering your Letter of the 30th Ulto. together with the Papers inclosed, to Congress, whence the whole were committed to the Board of War-and the House resolved to take under consideration the proceedings of the General Court Martial on your trial on Wednesday the 11th Instant. (1)

   I have the honor to be &c.

   I intreat you will not blame me for the long delinquency on my part in our correspondence. Permit me to assure you Sir my silence originated in a sympathy arising from my particular love & regard for you; Your kindness & your knowledge of business will supply an apology for the rest.

   I have now my Eye on your favor of the 5th October.(1) I have learned enough of the services of our late friend in his Office of Commissary to know that the Public are much indebted to him & you may rely on me Sir, for doing every thing in my power to obtain suitable acknowledgements for the benefit of his family. You have no doubt been informed by Mr. Elseworth that a Report had been lately made on your Representation to Congress, that exceptions were urged to certain parts & that therefore the whole was recommitted. The best influence on that

   I cannot on this occasion bound myself by five Millions, the want of forethought & Industry in his Successor occasioned an advance of the price of provision & every other article kept pace with that. The Contrast of these Officers demonstrates the merit of the former, hence Sir, your requisitions & expectations on behalf of the surviving family do not appear to me ill grounded, nor do I believe there would be any great opposition, provided the Accounts were adjusted, or adjusted so far as circumstances will admit of, I shall make an opportunity to day for conversing with Elseworth on this subject & do my self the honor of writing to you again very soon.

   I perceive Sir, we were in equal danger on the 28th Augt. & that we have each of us particular cause for thankfulness for the escape of our Children from dangers to which their Love of Country had exposed them,(2) My own, inform me what were your feelings while the event of that day remained unknown to us, & I am persuaded we have both learned, in all cases, under the severest pangs arising from apprehensions, such as I confess I felt on that occasion & in deep distress from real misfortunes to say "thy Will be done."

   11th. I have conversed with Mr. Elseworth who informs me the Committee have reconsidered their late report & are prepared to deliver another Report to the House, I hope this will be done to morrow & that the issue will afford you satisfaction.

   Congress seem to be now in earnest to proceed upon measures for realizing & appreciating our Paper Money. We may make of this a fine spun theorem, but unless we strike at the Root, the cause of our immense emissions, the peculation of great public Officers, the practice of monopolizers &c &c, we may drudge on, the Evil will remain & our Country will be reduced systematically to destruction. In a word, Sir, that Patriotism which we affected to say had led us into the present contest, is out of fashion & unless we speedily revive it, we shall experience a violent convulsion which will go near to ruin us, & which will at least bring us into universal disgrace, I lament the prospect. Believe me to be Dear sir, with the highest respect & Esteem, Your obliged & obedient humble servant.

    Henry Laurens.

   P. S. I beg my Compliments to Mr. Jonathan Trumbull Junr. The Treasury I am told have informed him of his appointment to the Comptrollership, unanimously elected-Salary 4000 Dollars per Annum.(3)

   The great & increasing Difficulties in the Quarter Masters & Commissary Generals Departments have induced Congress to adopt the Resolution of which we have the Honor to enclose you a Copy.(1) Among the measures immediately necessary for placing these matters on a proper Foundation is the acquiring of a knowledge of the proper Resources of these States. The Articles of consumption which we would most particularly be informed of are Flour, Wheat, Rye, Barley, Oats, Corn & Rice, Beef, Pork, Working Oxen & Horses, Cyder & Vinegar. The ignorance & the interests of Mankind, oppose so strongly our wishes in this respect, that after every Effort & every prudent precaution, our Information will perhaps be of far less importance than could be wished. It is however our Duty to aim at it and we have no reason to doubt your Excellency's Concurrence in the Steps necessary to attain what we have in view, especially when it is considered how readily your own good Sence will dictate the impracticability of continuing the war, at least of continuing it to advantage, while we remain Supremely ignorant of the supplies our Country is capable of affording. We have to entreat that your Excellency from your knowledge of the Productions of the several parts of your State, would appoint some proper persons in whose Industry & Secresy you can confide to make proper Lists through the Districts you shall severally allott to them of the Quantity & number of such of the Articles above named as are produced in it which may probably be over & above the necessary consumption of the Inhabitants, and also as nearly as possible the Quantity &c which they consume over and above their own production or of what they do not produce. We hope that these lists may be transmitted to us with all imaginable speed

   We are respectfully Your Excellency's Most Obedient & Humble Servts. Nathl. Scudder

    Gouv. Morris

    Wm. Whipple

   The dangerous Practices of Engrossers have increased so rapidly with the Publick distresses, and have so accumulated them, that every Friend to this Country or even to Humanity, cannot but wish to see some Remedy to an Evil, which threatens the Existence not only of the several States but of the poorer part of the Individuals which compose them. We are fully sensible that this disease should be touched with a cautious & with a Delicate hand, but at the same time, we confide in the wisdom of your Legislature for this Delicacy & Caution. We do not pretend to mark out the means which they should

   We have the Honor to be, Your Excellency's most Obt & Humble servants

    Nathl. Scudder

    Gouvr Morris

    Wm. Whipple

   Permit us to call your attention for a moment, to the Detection & punishment of a Crime against the Public. Persons in Office under the Continent have, as we are informed, used the monies entrusted to them, in the engrossing of articles upon the public(1) This seething of the Kid in its mothers milk, calls for the most exemplary punishment. We pray, that you will urge the Legislature of your State, to pass Laws for the prosecution & punishment of Offenders of this kind in future, and that in the Interim, your Excellency will cause,

   We are respectfully, Your Excellency's most Obt. & Humble servants,

    Nathl. Scudder

    Gouv Morris

    Wm. Whipple

   Among the many Objects which occupy Your mind, permit us to call your Attention for a moment to one of the first magnitude. In the States of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia,(1) the Distillery of Spirits from Grain hath become a very considerable & growing Manufacture. Amid the prejudices which it is natural to suppose the Parties concerned have raised, and the Arguments which may be adduced in it's favor, let us be permitted to mention some objections. The Effect of it in a moral point of view is certainly deserving of the first attention. Drunkenness, at all times a Crime and in this Case almost Self Murder is not discouraged by bringing the means of it home to every Mans own Door. And certainly there is the Best Authority to say that no Laws can diminish the Vice when the temptation is increased; to lead the People therefore into it or wink at their being led, is to say the least not very meritorious. An additional Weight is given to every Argument of this Kind, when it is considered that Malt Spirits of all others most effectually enervate both the mind & Body, rendering the unhappy Patient not only a stupid & useless but also wicked & for the most part a Dangerous Member of Society. But as no Political considerations should or indeed can influence a good Government to become inattentive to the Health & the Morals of it's Citizens, so we cannot doubt but that your Legislature will be most feelingly alive, when not only the Health & the Morals, but the Liberty, nay the Existence of the Society depend, upon the total prohibition of a practice at all times Dangerous, but at present fatal.

   The scarcity which already begins to be felt may, for ought we know, become in the course of Providence a Devouring famine. Pestilence,

    Nathl. Scudder

    Gouv Morris

    Wm. Whipple

   11. Wednesday. A very Stormy day. Congress spent part of the day on finances. Mr. Governur Morris & Mr. Sherman dined with us. No news material this day. 12. Thursday. Congress spent part of the day on finances. I dined with Dr. Potts & Mr. Gerry, Mr. Lovell & Genl. Whipple.

   Before I received your confidential Favor of I had thrown out to you some sentiments resembling your own as to the effect on little minds which would probably be consequential of your change of post.(1) I was sick at home when thoughtful Yankies made the motion,

   As to your moving without any continental Troops, I think good Reasons have been offered by Gl. W . The Disposition which he had made prior to our sending the Direction for your going forward was as judicious as appearances & his acquired intelligence could prompt. But giving you a Ride was as little as we possibly could do in Compliment to those states who had always exerted themselves when their neighbours were threatened no more than they now actually were. Your Reputation was judged sufficient to dispel any possible fear in our own citizens and even to divert a plan of our enemies.

   I think it must by this Time be beyond a doubt that every british Corps will leave the continent; the Germans cannot be forced to opperate in the west indies; therefore they must remain at New York, if any do. A small embarkation is now making of them I suppose for Halifax to go early in the Spring to Canada.

   I cannot at any rate, by an uncertain conveyance, say a word to you respecting joint opperations next campaign, which will in some measure govern the Cantonments of this winter. Indeed I am under the Rules of the House as to Secresy. Perhaps the Marquis F. in Conversation will have given you some Insights.

   Our Ratification is said, in a Martinico Gazette of Octr 1st, to have been arrived in Paris Augst. 4th and on its Way to Versailles.

   Bingham, intimate with Marqs. de Bouillie, gives his opinion that Spain conducts wholly in concert with France; and he suggests very good Reasons for the Face she now puts on.(2)

   I again recommend Mrs. L_____ to you and with affectionate Compliments to your amiable Family am your Friend sincerely and Your humb. Servt.(3) J L

   As Congress have delegated to a Committee, of which I have the Honor to be a Member, the superintendance of the Commissary & Quarter Masters Departments;(1) this, together with our Finances

   First then it is a Position clear that we must act according to our Powers and not our Inclinations. It is I am afraid as clear that your Army will want Subsistence if kept together. Neither the Quarter Master nor Commissary Departments can in the mercantile Phrase do the needful while you are where you are. I take it the Number of the Enemy and the Season are against active Operations on their Part. Their Situation the Season our natural and political Circumstances are equally against them on our Part. To ravage the Country and to cover it from being ravaged are then the two Objects. The first is base and beyond a certain Degree impracticable. The second is to a certain Degree dangerous and ideal. If it is reduced to a Question for instance whether the Counties of Bergen and Westchester shall be protected by our Arms or the Losses paid for I am ready to purchase the whole of both in Fee and lay them Waste by Way of saving Money. The like I take it will hold good with Respect to the Environs of Rhode Island. I cannot therefore help being of Opinion that few very few Troops should remain in the Eastern Department. But that many of them if many there be and a Part of your Army should be cantoned along thro the Towns about the Middle of Connecticut River. The Post in the Highlands cannot indeed be neglected and perhaps for the better Support of it another Post may be necessary about Fredericksburgh. To supply them with Provisions &c. will be very difficult and whenever the Frosts shall become severe these Posts will require much fewer Men and therefore it may be good Policy to place those whose Times are near expiring on that Ground. The Sick &c &c can perhaps be better and safer kept at Albany than elsewhere and then a Part of your Force will be there to cover them, mount the necessary Guards &c. At Aquaquenonck, New Ark and Elizabeth Town advance Parties may be posted to cover the interior Country and Communication. A considerable Body at Morristown will be necessary to secure the Magazines which may there be drawn to a Point from all the Communications and there most properly because perfectly secure and because naturally a good Forage Country. A small Body of Men will be necessary for the Sake of Order &c at Sussex Court House, Easton, Coryells, Brunswick, Princeton &c.

   Amboy will I imagine be too dangerous as by landing at the Blazing Star or in very cold Weather on the Meadows between that and Amboy they might be cut off. A Part of the Army might be quartered at Trenton, Bordentown & Burlington and a Part at the Valley Forge. The Waggons of every kind and Horses should be sent away from those not exposed. The advanced Posts will require a few good Horses but they should have very little Baggage and only light very light Artillery, a few good Cavalry also may be requisite for the Videttes. I cannot conceive that any Danger can arise from such dispersion of the Army and I am confident they can in that Way be much better fed. My principle view is I confess this that almost all the Horses of the Army may travel southwest perhaps as far as beyond the Potowmack in the two Counties of Frederick and in Washington & Barclay Counties there to be boarded with the Farmers by which Means they will be fit for use as early as the Season will permit. The Cavalry might be quartered in little Villages and if the Officers are good the Men as well Horses might improve. This Peace and Ease would help recruiting but I have said too much already. However as I have disposed of your Army Pray let me now dispose of their General. I think Philadelphia would be a very proper Place for him. In short Sir you must contrive to spend some Time near Congress and I am confident you will do more good by establishing a good Understanding between them and the Army forwarding it's Business and the like than can easily be conceived.(2) To all this I add that if the General, the Quarter Master and the Commissary General are on this Spot all the Arrangements for the next Campaign will be properly made. One Thing more and I have done. It is that I wish most earnestly to see you. Adieu. I am yours,

    Gouvr Morris

   I have the honor of transmitting you within the present Cover an Act of Congress of the 23d September for granting a supply of four hundred Dollars annually for three years in quarterly payments to the Widow and nine youngest Children of the late Captain Skimmer to be paid by your Board.(1) I had been informed that this Act had been sent by the Marine Committee, otherwise you would have received it long since. I am with great Respect &c.

   I have not had occasion to trouble you with a Letter since the 2d Ulto. In the mean time your several favors of the 25th Sept., 18th, 26th, & 31st October have reached me & have in due course been presented to Congress, but at present I have no Commands from the House respecting their several contents.(1)

   A Report from the Board of War on the article of forage lies for consideration. I shall endeavor to bring it forward this Morning & you shall as early as possible be informed of the event.(2)

   Major Talbot's capture of the Pigot armed Vessel afforded much satisfaction to Congress, his whole conduct in that affair is admired & applauded & I am persuaded that an occasion will be embraced for signifying the same to himself in terms of suitable honor.(3)

   I have the honor to be, With very great Respect & Esteem, sir, Your most obedient & Most humble Servant,

    Henry Laurens, President of Congress.(4)

   I am at present in great Haste; but as a Supplement to my last I will ask you, Who among the Sons of America ought to enforce the Example of the illustrious young Foreigner? (1) Who is substituting other Means of Dissipation in my native Town in Lieu of Theatrical Entertainments &c &c? Who has mixed the Grave and the Vain, the Whigs and the Tories in Scenes of Amusement totally incompatible with the present serious Times? Who among the Grave and Who among the Whigs, I mean such Whigs as have a feeling for their distressed Country and the Multitudes of distressd Individuals in it, are present at such Entertainmts? Is there a Man among them to whom our Country has entrusted her Independence, her Virtue, her Liberty? What can be the Views and Designs of such a Man, but to establish a Popularity by forming a Coalition of Parties and confounding the Distinction between Whigs and Tories, Virtue & Vice? When I was last in Boston, I seizd an Opportunity to advise my Fellow Citizens to beware of their popular Men-to penetrate their Views and Designs. There was comparatively no great Danger from a great Man set over them by the British Tyrant. When the People set up a Great Man of their own, their Jealousy is asleep, & they are in Danger of a Master. I have no personal Prejudices or Attachments. Many things I have to say to you if I had Leisure.

   My due Regards to your Lady, to Mr S and his Family. Adieu.

   P.S. I am not inattentive to what you said in my last relating to my Friend Mrs M . I will endeavor to serve her in the Instance she mentions, but she must not depend upon Success.

    13. Friday. I wrode out in the morning with Mr. Adams & Mr. Elsworth. Met a Comttee. at 5 o'Clock on a number of Merchants petitions-a rainey evening. 14. Saturday. Congress spent part of the day upon finances. The weathers is cold.

   I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency the 18th Ulto. recommended to the particular care of Governor Henry of Virginia,(1) since which I have received none of your favors. This will be accompanied by an Act of Congress of the 10th Inst. recommending to the Governments of North Carolina, South Carolina & Georgia to afford every necessary assistance to Major General Lincoln for enabling him to subdue the Province of East Florida.(2)

   Congress have Resolved that each Major General who shall go on the intended expedition, shall, in case of the reduction of that Province be intitled to a grant of three Thousand Acres of Land; each Brigadier to a grant of two Thousand &c.

   I shall inclose in the Packet with this the two last News Papers which will inform Your Excellency of our Current intelligence. The Enemy's Garrison at New York continue to give tokens of a complete evacuation intended, but are slow in their motions, sullen & full of wrath.

   I have the honor to be, With very great Respect & Esteem, Sir, Your Excellency's Obedient & humble servant,

    Henry Laurens, President of Congress.

   The last Letter which I had the honor of addressing to Your Excellency was under the 24th Ulto.(1) since which, and for a long time before I have received none of your favors, and therefore Congress remain uninformed of the reception of many of their Acts transmitted to the State of Virginia.

   Inclos'd with this Your Excellency will receive an Act of Congress of the 10th Instant for obtaining such of the Armed Gallies belonging to the State of Virginia as are fit for service on an Expedition intended against the Province of East Florida to which I beg leave to refer,(2) and being persuaded the Government of that State will perceive in a moment the utility of this Measure, and the necessity for the utmost dispatch, there remains nothing for me to add to the recommendations of Congress.

   Your Excellency will also receive an Act of Congress of the 11th Instant requesting the Government of Virginia to suffer the immediate departure of the Vessels and Cargoes therein mentioned-the Minister Plenipotentiary of France having given to Congress the most explicit and candid assurances that both are for the immediate use and service of His Most Christian Majesty's Fleet and Troops, and wholly unconnected with private trade.(3) I have the honor to be &c.

   Since my last of the 6th Instant I have had the honor of receiving and presenting to Congress Your Excellency's-favor of that date.(1)

   Under Cover with this, Your Excellency will receive an Act of Congress of the 12th Instant containing a state of Doctor Coolly's case, and a Resolve of Congress thereupon which you will be pleased Sir, to send in to the Commanding Officer of the Enemy's troops in New York.(2) I have the honor to be &c.(3)

   The Minister Plenipotentiary of France this day acquaints the Marine Committee, that yesterday after Dinner, no one had appeared on board the Frigate Chimere to regulate the Loading of the Charlote and Bonnite; & earnestly intreats a Completion of the Loadings without any Loss of Time. The Committee not knowing that you was detaind [here?], have been expecting to hear from [you] that every thing had been done agreably to their Request on the Evening of the 9th Instant.(1) It is now the seventh Day since the Committee acquainted the Minister after confering with you that one thousand

   Barrils of Bread and two or three thousand Barrils of Flour could be provided for those Vessels in ten days. It is therefore hoped that the Business will be compleated without any Delay.

   You will please as soon as possible after your Arrival at the Place where the Vessels are, to let the Committee know by a Letter, the Quantity you may deliver for them. The Minister expects fifteen or Sixteen hundred Barrils of Flour over and above what you may furnish for those Vessels which you will also please to procure, & let us know to whose Care they may be committed, that the Minister may have due Notice of it.

   The Committee are further informd, that the salted Pork which has been deliverd for the Frigate has been found to be spoild; and that a Part of the Flour which has been sent on board the Charlote & the Bonnite has provd equally bad. You are therefore earnestly requested to take particular Care that what shall now be provided, be such as is fit for the Use of the French Squadron.

   I am in the Name and Behalf of that committee, Sir your humble Servant, S. Adams, Chairman

   Inclosed Your Excellency will find a Resolve of Congress of the 10th Instant relative to an Expedition against East Florida.(1) In this Resolve there is a Clause which not being so clearly worded as we wished, makes it necessary for us to inform your Excellency of what was the sense of Congress upon it. The Clause is as follows, "Thatt if Major General Lincoln shall be of opinion that the Continental Battalions of the States of South Carolina and Georgia &c." We conceived that this expression of the Continental Battalions tended to destroy by implication the Controul of the President of South Carolina over two thirds of the effectives of the Battalions of that State as vested by the Resolution of Congress of the 18th of June 1776 (2) and an amendment was moved to clear up the ambiguity. But it being universally declared in Congress that the Resolution as it stood did not impair that controul and that no part of the Resolution of the 18th June 1776 could be effected by implication, or could be annulled but by expressions referring to that Resolution and annulling the whole or part of it, the amendment was withdrawn as

    Henry Laurens Jno. Mathews

    W. H. Drayton Richd. Hutson

   I had the honor of addressing Your Lordship the 10th Instant by Dugan and last night of receiving your favor of the 11th with two New York Garrison Papers-such parts of Your Lordships intelligence as I know will be acceptable to Congress shall be communicated to the House tomorrow, accompanied by a necessary hint respecting publication.(1)

   The false representations contained in the Newspapers of the several attempts made on the part of the Commissioners for treating with Congress, their Account of the designs and desires of that body, equally false, discover in those Commissioners and their coadjutors, a despair of Conquest, their business is therefore to blind the understanding of the Nation whom they have reduced to the verge of ruin and overwhelmed with disgrace. The subterfuge will not long screen them, the Nation will be better informed, and misfortunes will give and edge to their resentments.

   If Sir Henry Clinton did actually proceed with the second Embarkation of Troops, (2) I can think of no place upon the Continent so inviting to his Enterprize as Charlestown, South Carolina, he may with six thousand troops do much mischief in that Country, acquire much plunder, of Negroes and proper provisions for the West Indies, but he will meet hard blows, and from the Season of the year, hazard a total disappointment.

   I shall inclose in the present Packet seven of Dunlap's Papers, four of the 12th and three of the 14th Instant. I wish somebody in New York may be so wise as to send Common Sense to a friend in London.(3) There is scarcely an American Commodity so much wanted as this, in that great Metropolis, and Your Lordship shall hereafter be regularly supplied with the Advertisers. I Am Sir, With the highest Esteem and Respect, Your Lordships &c.

   I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency Yesterday by Messenger Freeman.

   Your Excellency will receive inclosed herewith Copy of a Letter dated Sunbury 9th Instant from Colonel Hartley to the Board of War, which Congress have directed to transmit & to signify that it is the desire of the House Your Excellency "will take such Measures relative to the subject matter thereof as you shall judge necessary.'' (1)

   I have the honor to be &c.(2)

   The bearers of this are Mr. Walton & Mr. Telfare Two of the Georgia Delegates,(1) Gentlemen of Integrity & honor, and as Such I beg leave to introduce them to Your Excellency. To those Gentlemen I refer you for News. I shall by next Post write you a longer Letter & Am with the greatest respect, Your Excellencys Most Obt. & very hul Servt. Cornl. Harnett

   16. Monday. Congress Resolved them Selves into a Come. of the whole house to consider the state of our money & finances. 17. Tuesday. I wrote to Mrs. Holten (No. 29) Doctr. Gordon & my daughter Sally.(1) Congress spent part of this day in a come. of the whole on finances.

   By Messenger Hunter I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency under the 14th Instant.

   Under the present Cover will be found two Copies of the undermentioned Acts of Congress viz.

   An Act of the 26th August 1776 for establishing a Provision for Soldiers and Seamen Maimed or disabled in the service of the United States-to which is subjoined a supplementary Act of the 25th September 1778 for the benefit of maimed and disabled Volunteers in the service of the States antecedent to the date of the first abovementioned Act.

   An Act of the 26th September for organizing the Public Treasury, and for providing an House for the several Offices of Treasury.

   17th. Your Excellency will also receive an Act of Congress of this date for holding throughout these United States a general Thanksgiving on Wednesday the 30th December next-And three Copies of the Treaties of Amity and Commerce, and of Alliance eventual and defensive between his Most Christian Majesty & these United States. I had the honor this Morning of presenting Your Excellency's favor of the 9th Instant to Congress. The House intreat Your Excellency will not delay the intended relief of Troops for South Carolina and Georgia,(1) there is still great reason to believe an Embarkation has

   The dispersion of Byron's fleet which Your Excellency will learn from the Newspaper which I have the honor of inclosing may occasion very great alterations in the Schemes & Plans of our Enemies, tis far from improbable that Count d'Estaing has carried off some of the scatter'd Ships, he sail'd in the critical moment for meeting them-nevertheless it appears to be essential to the general welfare of our Union that Georgia and South Carolina should be immediately reinforced, and that if possible East Florida be subdued. I submit these intimations to Your Excellency's competent Judgment and remain with great Respect and Esteem, Sir &c.

   I had the honor of addressing you in a Letter of the 6th Ulto. by the hands of Colonel Ternant, since which I have received and duly presented to Congress your several favors of the 24th and 26th August, the 22nd and 22nd September and 12th October.(1) The first, second, third and fifth of these have been committed and remain for future consideration, excepting your attention in procuring intelligence of the strength and general circumstances of East Florida, this is particularly approv'd of by Congress, as you will find more fully expressed in an Act of the 10th Instant here inclosed in which Congress have engaged to defray any Expence which may have attended that service.(2) I have the honor to be &c.

   Within the present inclosure you will receive three Acts of Congress as undermentioned, which I shall transmit in obedience to the direction of the House for your government as Commanding Officer in the Southern Department.(1)

   1. An Act of the 2nd Instant for reducing the Province of East Florida.

   2. An Act of the 10th Instant for obtaining Armed Gallies from the States of Maryland and Virginia, and for divers other purposes therein mentioned for carrying into effect the intended Expedition against the said Province of East Florida.

   3. An Act of the 13th for appointing a Deputy Judge Advocate in the State of Georgia, if such appointment shall be found necessary.

   I likewise inclose my own Bill of this date on John Lewis Gervais Esquire for the value of One hundred & fifteen Guineas in pursuance of a Resolve in the Act of the 10th Instant for remitting you two hundred Pounds in Specie.(2) You are well acquainted Sir with the great scarcity of Gold and Silver & the many demands which there are upon Congress for both, and therefore I am persuaded you will be particularly attentive in the expenditure of the sum to be deposited in your hands-if Paper Money will obtain the intended services, as I believe it will from South Carolina, the Specie may be spared.(3)

   I request you Sir, to be assured of my good wishes for your health and complete success, And that I Am, With particular Respect and Esteem, Sir, Your Most Obedient and Most Humble Servt.

   On the 7th Instant I had the honor of addressing Your Excellency by Messenger Owen, and on the 11th of presenting to Congress your Letter dated the 8th.(1)

   My present duty is to transmit two Copies of the undermention'd Acts of Congress viz.(2)

   An Act of the 26th August 1776 for establishing a Provision for Soldiers and Seamen maimed or disabled in the service of the United States-to which is subjoined a supplementary Act of the 25th September 1778 for the benefit of maimed and disabled Volunteers in the service of the States, antecedent to the date of the first abovemention'd Act.

   An Act of the 26th September for organizing the Public Treasury, and for providing an House for the several Offices of Treasury.

   17th. You will likewise receive an Act of Congress for holding a general 'I'hanksgiving throughout these States on Wednesday the 30th December next (3)-and three Copies of the Treaty of Amity and Commerce and of Alliance eventual and defensive between his Most Christian Majesty and these United States for the information and use of the State of Delaware.(4)

   18th. Your Excellency's favor of the 15th this Morning presented to Congress afforded the House much satisfaction.(5) You Sir, & the privy Council have done your part. Congress confide on the General Assembly to Co-operate with you for the benefit of the Union particularly by acceding to the articles of Confederation. The State of Jersey have Resolved to Ratify, we trust that Maryland & Delaware will not much longer be delinquents.

   I have the honor to be, with very great Esteem & Respect, Sir, Your Excellency's Most Obedient servant,

    Henry Laurens, President of Congress.

   Our last of the 9th instant acknowledged the receipt of yours of the 28th Ultimo which we have since duely considered.

   We shall now repeat what we have been pressing for in our late Letters vizt. your greatest exertions in preparing the Continental Armed Vessels now in the Ports of your department for Sea, being well convinced that you will do every thing in your power for the speedy Accomplishmt. of that desireable business. In future you will please to observe that when Continental Vessels arrive in your Ports they are again to be fitted with all expedition for the sea, and you are to transmit to this Committee weekly an Account of their Number, Situation and the time you think they will be ready to sail. With regard to the Vessels that are now fitting out at your ports, and also with regard to those Vessels that may hereafter arrive, when they are fitted for the sea you will send them out to cruize against our enemies either collectively or Singly as you shall judge proper, useing your discretion as to the time for which their Cruizes shall continue, and your-best judgment in directing the commanders to such places and on such stations as you shall think will be for the general benefit of the United States, and to Annoy and distress the enemy.

   At present we consider it an Object of importance to destroy the infamous Goodrich (1) who has much infested our Coast, Cruizing with a squadron of 4, 5, or 6 armed Vessels from 16 Guns downwards from Egg harbour to Cape Fear in North Carolina, therefore you will please to Order A Sufficient force to range the said Coast to remove

   By a Vessel arrived here lately in 17 Days from Bermuda we learn that four Vessels of Goodriches Squadron were carreening at that place when she sailed.

   Congress have established Pursers in the Navy to all ships not under 16 Guns, also an abatement on Slops delivered to Seamen who will enter for twelve Months, and provision in the distribution of Prize Money for the Carpenters & Gunners Mates who have been heretofore neglected. We shall send the Resolves by the next Opporty.(2)

   We have desired the Commissary General of Prisoners to give strict orders to his deputy at Boston to be attentive to the retaining & exchanging of Marine Prisoners under the direction of your Board, which we hope will be sufficient to remove the inconveniences you have pointed out.(3) We request that all further attempts to get out the ship Trumbull may be laid aside for the present unless some very favourable opportunity should speedily offer.

   We have lately been informed of the Capture of the Schooner Pigot at Rhode Island mounting Eight 12pdr. Cannon and wish you to purchase her Guns for Continental use. In a late letter from Captain Landais he mentions his not having received the Subsistance Money of 51/3 Dollars allowed him by Resolve of Congress of the 25th July 1777. You will please to pay him that Subsistance from the date of his Commission which is the 9th of May 1778 he being in Actual service since that time and consequently intitled to receive it. Captain Landais recommends the use of Powder proofs on board our Ships, we request you will write by the first opportunity to France for 3 doz of them. You will please to inform Captain Hinman that the Papers relative to Captain Thompsons trial are copying and shall shortly be sent forward to your Board.

   By Mr. Brown an Express who carried our letter of the 9th instant we sent you 150,000 Dollars and shall shortly remit you a further supply for the use of your Department. We are, Gentlemen, Your hble Servants

   P.S. It is our desire that the Ship Ranger be sent out under the command of Lieutenant Simpson. We have determined that an abatement of 50 per Ct. shall be made on the first cost of Slops delivered to Seamen who will enter for twelve months but you will take care to order them to be distributed properly so as that the Seamen shall not leave the Vessels in debt.

   I have written a long Letter to the Genl.(1) The Burthen of the Song is divide your Army and come hither. I am more and more convinced that unless Something of the former Kind be done we shall find the Distresses in your & Wadsworth's Departments insurmountable. I wish much that He and you should be here not meerly for the Sake of the Public but that in addition to that which is indeed also for the public advantage, Prejudices may be removed, Suspicions quieted, Jealousies stifled, Calumny destroyed and Friendship and Harmony and Confidence awakened and kept alive. The General hath Enemies as who is it that hath not. You have Enemies. The Army I am told hath Jealousies and Suspicions about it detrimental to Congress and to the Public Welfare. I hope not. But at any Rate let those who know best what they suffer and-how they feel be on the Spot to say in the language of a Soldier Do this Act of Justice and that of Generosity I have served you faithfully reward therefore these Men for they have also most faithfully served. Besides all this perhaps it might be full as proper for him to meet Mrs. Washington here as in any Camp under Heaven. Adieu, I am your Friend, Gouvr Morris

   I feel a very high degree of pleasure in obeying the Orders of

   Congress by transmitting an Act of the 14th Instant for expressing the sense of the House of the bravery and good conduct of yourself and of the Officers and Men under your Command in taking the

   Armed Schooner Pigot, and for granting you a Commission of Lieutenant Colonel in the Army of the United States in acknowledgment of your Merit.(1)

   You will receive Sir within the present inclosure the Commission annexed to the Act, and will be pleased to signify to your Officers and Men the applause due to them on this occasion.

   I intreat you to accept my best wishes that you may have many future opportunities of distinguishing your Character in the Annals of your Country, and that you will be assured, I am with great Respect & Esteem, Sir, Your Obedient and Most Humble Servant.

   Nov. 18. Wednesday. Congress spent part of the day in a come. of the whole, on finances.

   19. Thursday. Congress was so engaged in business that they did not take into consideration the state of our finances.

   I had the honor of writing to you on the 15th & am now to thank Your Lordship for your favor of the 13th which with that of the 11th were read to Congress on Monday.(1)

   I perceive by Copy of a Letter which this moment reached me from General Washington & forwarded by Your Lordship, that Sir Henry Clinton was in the Garrison at New York on the 10th unless he had written the original before his departure & anticipated a date the more effectually to conceal his absence from our knowledge.(2)

   In the present Packet I send three of Dunlap's yesterday's Papers & was going to say that I had nothing further to offer, but in the very instant Mr. Gérard conveyed to me by his Secretary the following intelligence which if authentic & the Minister is persuaded it is, will give a favorable aspect to the affairs of the Allies.

   Count d'Estaing sailed from Massachuset's Bay in the Morning of the 4th in a very strong gale of fair Wind & went safely to Sea, in the Evening of that day a Express from arrived at Boston with information that Admiral Byron's fleet of 16 Sail of the Line which had been lying perdue, had been overtaken by the Violent Storm which happened on the 3d-the whole fleet were dispersed the Sommerset of 64 Guns wrecked,(3) 40 of her Men

   Deduct 5 from 16. 11 will nominally remain, but I would not insure them for a lower praemium than two of that number, taking the chance of foundering smashing of Masts &c &c.

   We shall soon receive more special accounts of this fortunate circumstance, I am sure I should have received one as early as the french Minister & probably more minutely, had we not (as I think unluckily & unnecessarily) superseded Major General Heath, by which I have lost an excellent correspondent.

   I have the honor to be, Sir, Your Lordship's Most Obedient & Most humble servant, Henry Laurens.

   I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency the 15th by Jones. Yesterday I presented a Letter to Congress from Major General Schuyler of the 2d Inst. together with one of the 10th of October from Mr. James Deane which had come inclosed in the General's Letter; A Copy of Mr. Deane's is now transmitted and by Order of Congress referred to Your Excellency.(1)

   This moment half past six, A.M. Your Excellency's favor of the 14th containing Copy of a Letter from Sir Henry Clinton of the 10th is brought in to me.(2) I shall present it to Congress this Morning, and I hope the House will enable me to return a judicious answer this Evening or tomorrow.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   We request the favour of you to transmit to us by the first Oppty a minute and accurate detail of the whole circumstances relative to the Sloop Friendship (1)-we wish you to give us the dates of the Agreemt. made by the Commissary the Seizure &c and to inform us what part if any of the Cargo was private property, whether an Appeal has been made and by who.

   We are with regard, Sir, Your very Hble servts

   Mr. McKean informs Congress,(1) that upon seeing Brigadier General William Thompson last night in the Coffee house, being lately summoned by the British Commissary of Prisoners to return to New York agreeable to his parole, and thinking he had a pleasing piece of intelligence to communicate to him, he called to the General and told him he had just heard, that General Clinton had proposed to exchange the Officers of the Convention of Saratoga for our Officers who are prisoners; upon which the General, in a great passion, said he was obliged to General Clinton, but not to Congress, they had used him damned rascally, for he ought to have been exchanged above a year ago. Mr. McKean replied he was mistaken, for Congress could not with justice or propriety have procured his exchange before, and he ought not to be angry with them without cause; upon which the General raised his voice and said, that the Congress might have exchanged him lately for one who was a General Officer, but another, who deserved little and who was not an Officer, was preferred to him; (alluding to the exchange of Governor Franklin for President McKinly of the Delaware State, as Mr. McKean apprehended) and then aloud and in an imperious tone further said, that the Congress were a parcel of damned Rascals, and that he Mr. McKean was so in particular, which he repeated twice, referring as Mr. McKean understood to his having voted for the exchange of Governor

   Mr. McKean considering this behaviour of Brigadier General Thompson to be a breach of Privilege, to have a tendency to destroy the freedom of voting in Congress, and to be a gross insult upon this Honourable Body from one of their officers, and that in so public a place, thinks it his duty as a Member to communicate it to Congress.

   Annexed are extracts of Letters of yesterdays date from the Honble the Sr. Gérard minister of France to Congress, which have been referred to this Committee with directions to comply with the requests therein contained.(1)

   You will please to order the Captain of the frigate in which the Marquis Delafayette is to take his passage to france to afford Convoy to the Vessel in which the French Prisoners are to embark as far as requested by the Minister and also to accommodate the Chevalier De Remondis Captain of the Ceaser with a passage in the said Frigate to France particularly recommending him to be treated with all kindness & respect, We are Gentlemen, Your Hble servants

   20. Friday. Congress spent part of the day in a Come. of the whole, on finances.

   21. Saturday. Congress spent part of the day on finances. The Honl. Mr. Ellsworths dind with us.

   I felt myself doubly honoured by your favor of the 14th Inst.(1) from the confidence of General Washington in the free communication of his sentiments & in the coincidence of his Ideas with my own, upon a question, on the wise decision of which the Inheritance, possibly the establishment, of the freedom & Independance of these States, seems to depend. The respect Sir, which I owe you, demands an immediate reply, & yet the variety of avocations in which I am engaged, do not afford me moments for arranging or expressing my thoughts suitably to the importance of the subject; I am nevertheless encouraged to proceed without hesitation from a conviction, that, were I to deliver my opinions at full length I should be obliged to borrow Your Excellency's words, which I have the honor of assuring you Sir, are in more than one Instance repetitions of my own, & that in every other, one excepted, our sentiments on this momentous discussion exactly accord.

   I believe & upon good grounds, the scheme for an expedition into Canada in concert with the Arms of France originated in the breast of Marquis delafayette, encouraged probably by conferences with Count d'Estaing & I also believe it to be the offspring of the purest motives so far as respects that origin, but this is not sufficient to engage my concurrence in a measure big with eventual mischiefs.

   As deeply as my very limited time & faculties had suffered me to penetrate, I had often contemplated our delicate connexion with France & although it is painful to talk of ones own foresight, had viewed & foretold fifteen Months ago the humiliating state to which our embrio Independence would be reduced, by courting from that Nation the loan of more Money than should be actually necessary for the support of the Army & of our unfortunate Navy.

   I was one of the six unsuccessful opponents to the resolution for borrowing Money from France for paying the Interest of our loan Office Certificates (2)-we have in this single article plunged the Union into a vast amount of debt, & from neglecting to exert our very small abilities or even to shew a leading disposition to cancel any part of the former demand against us, our Bills for that Interest are now floating in imminent danger of dishonor & disgrace. Fully persuaded of the value of National honor I anxiously wished to support our own

   The immense debts which we are involved in abroad & at home demand the most serious attention & call for an exertion of the collected wisdom of all these States in order to secure what we have saved from the Ravages of the Enemy. I am very short sighted, if there is at this time any encouragement for attempting distant conquests.

   I have been uniformly averse from every proposition which tended to dissipate our strength & to accumulate our debts. Events have confirmed my opinion, & at this Instant taking in view all circumstances I have doubts of the policy & more of the success of the pending expedition against East Florida.

   Congress will probably recommend to the States to raise a Tax of near 20 Million the ensuing Year, this I hope will have a good effect, by returning many of us to first Principles from which we have been too long wandering. This almost intolerable burthen will rouse & animate our fellow Citizens. They will probably send Men of abilities to investigate Causes, to enquire into expenditures & to call delinquents for unaccounted Millions to severe reckonings, they will do

   The disaster of Admiral Byron's Fleet & the successful departure of Count d'Estaing's are events much in our favor, that is to say, if we are pleased to make a wise improvement of them but from experience fearing the contrary I am almost tempted to wish they had not happened. These fortunate circumstances will lull us to sleep again, & while our Ally is gaining honor, aggrandizement & the highest national advantages we shall be sinking into a State little better than tributary & dependent-be this as it may, the World will ever honor by acknowledging the virtues of the Man who from my inmost Soul I believe keeps us at this Moment from crumbling.

   I have the honor to be With the most sincere Respect & Esteem, Dear Sir Your much obliged, & obedient humble Servant,

    Henry Laurens.

   I beg leave to refer to what I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency under the 18th Instant by Humphrey.

   I was Yesterday honor'd with Your Excellency's Letters of the 11th and 12th, which were immediately presented to Congress, the former is committed to the Board of War, the other to the Committee on the Marquis de la Fayette's Letters.(1)

   Inclosed with this will be found an Act of Congress of the 17th Instant for a general Thanksgiving to be observed throughout the United States on Wednesday the 30th of December next. An Act of the 19th for exchanging Officers of the Convention Troops for American Officers in the actual possession, or within the power of the Enemy;(2) and also three Copies of the Treaties of Amity and Commerce, and of Alliance eventual and defensive between His Most Christian Majesty and the United States of America. The transmission of this Paper to Your Excellency in particular, is a circumstance which I have long wished for.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   P.S. I detained this Bearer all yesterday, hoping Congress would have enabled me to have made necessary returns to your Excellency's unanswer'd Letters-'tis now early the 21st.

   Congress having by a Resolve dated the 10th instant (1) directed you to take the Command of all the Armed Vessels that are to be employed on an intended expedition against east Florida, subject to

   You are forthwith to proceed to Maryland, and there apply to Governor Johnston, who is requested by Congress to put under your command all the armed Gallies, that shall be manned and fitted out by that government for the expedition, and if upon your Arrival you should find any of them not ready for Sea, you will then use your best endeavours to expedite their equipment with the utmost dispatch.(2)

   As Congress have also requested a number of Gallies from the State of Virginia and as your security on the voyage to Charles Town will in some Measure depend upon a junction of the Gallies from each State, it is highly requisite you should make yourself immediately Acquainted either by Letter or applying to the Governor in person, with the Number of Gallies that will be fitted out by that government, and the time they will be ready for Sea, and if those from Maryland can be equiped nearly about the same, and it is not disagreeable to the Governor of Virginia, you will then so govern your measures as to form a junction of your little [fleet] in some convenient place in Virginia from whence you will proceed to Charles Town in South Carolina.

   If Virginia should not be disposed to furnish any of her Gallies for this expedition or if it should be disagreeable to either of the Governors of Maryland or Virginia that the Gallies of each State should sail in company, you will then proceed with those from the State of Maryland. If Maryland should not be in a situation to furnish and equip her Gallies for this expedition, you will then if not disagreeable to the Governor of Virginia take the command of these to be furnished by that state. You are to assist as far as lies in your power in manning and equiping the gallies from each State, and to be careful in establishing a proper system of Signals for the government of your fleet. You are to receive from the Quarter Master General on board the Gallies from Maryland a quantity of bar Iron not exceeding ten Tons. When you arrive in Charles Town in the State of South Carolina you will there receive and Obey the Orders of the commander in chief in the Southern Department.

   We recommend it to you to cultivate harmony among your officers and Men as essentially necessary to the public service and trusting much to your valour and good conduct, We have strong hopes of a favourable Issue to the intended expedition. We are sir, Your Hble Servts

   P. S. You are from time to time to give us full information of your proceedings.

   I thank you for Your Lordships favors of the 17 & l9th which came to hand late last Night (1)_it may be truly said that Admiral Byron has paid for his peeping, & I fancy we dont yet know the whole score. There seems to be about 6 or 7 unaccounted Vessels of his squadron which I think consisted of 16 Capital Ships, if these have taken their Lodgings at Nantucket or gone to Winter with Count d'Estaing in the warmer latitudes, I am content. Alas poor old England, I feel her approaching distress & pray that her Eyes may be opened before it be quite too late; who can dry eyed behold, a falling Kingdom, or a Kingdom in which there are thousands whom he personally loves falling into great contempt & disgrace among Nations?

   Your Lordship will find within, the Advertisers of the 19th & this date with duplicates say triplicates.

   I have the honor to be With very great Esteem & Respect My Lord, Your most obliged & obedt. servt, Henry Laurens

   I have been near two Months in possession of your favor of the 5th of September without power to make a proper reply until the present opportunity because Congress had not determin'd upon the appointment of a Deputy Quarter Master General earlier than the 17th Instant.

   Within the present Inclosure you will receive an Act of Congress of that date, by which you will be informed that you were then unanimously elected to the Office above mentioned, and this Act will be your Warrant for proceeding in the execution of the Duties of your Appointment.(1)

   I have had more than one conference with the Board of War respecting your Rank. The Board are of opinion that there is no Rank incidental to the Office, and therefore declined the insertion of Rank in a Commission. I have instanced the Commission of your Predecessor, to this I have been answered that there had been some management in that case unknown to Congress, and altogether improper. This opinion seems to be supported by referring to all the Deputy Quarter Masters in the other Departments, none of whom, as far as my knowledge extends have Rank in the Army as of right annex'd to the Office, altho' they are generally complimented with the title of Lieutenant Colonels. In the late Arrangement of the Quarter Masters' Department, not a Commission has been issued from my Office, and I observe that the Commander in Chief directs to my Neighbour, commonly call'd Colonel Mitchell, "John Mitchell Esqr. Deputy Quarter Master General." You will naturally ask, have Congress established no Rule in this Case? This shall be my inquiry, and if I discover that you are entitled to Rank, by Rule or established precedent, you may depend upon receiving a proper Commission by the next Messenger to Charlestown. In the meantime I will endeavour to prevail on my Honorable Colleagues to move Congress for an appointment in your favor of Quarter Master General of the Southern Department. There appears at present an absurdity in the term of Deputy, when compared with the Appointment of Major General Greene, & his power of appointing all his Deputies, from whom you receive no instructions, nor are you in any respect accountable to him under an appointment descending directly from Congress. I will not trouble you Sir, with further reasonings on this subject, you will perceive my inclination from what I have already said to obtain for you all that of right appertains to your Office. I know that heretofore Commissions have been shamefully prostituted, and I am informed that former Deputy Quarter Masters in several instances from favoritism and other vicious sources derived Rank; if this be true, I am too well acquainted with your Principles Sir, to suppose you would wish me to follow such examples-the Army cried aloud against them, and the last Arrangement was intended to prohibit and abolish the practice.

   I have the honor to be, With Regard, Sir, Your Obedient & Humble Servant

   P.S. Upon further investigation I find that the Officers under General Mifflin as Quarter Master General were entitled to Rank, & Colo. Mitchell informs me that none of the Deputies of Major Genl. Greene in the present Establishment have Commissions. As Commissions have from necessity been lodg'd in the hands of Governors, Presidents of States and General Officers & no returns made of the disposition of such Commissions, it has been hitherto impossible for

   Having no public Commands respecting you, which I am exceedingly sorry for considering the anxiety of some of the Officers of the Convention, I must content myself with transmitting you the Advertisers of the l9th & this day, a return for your favors which I ought never to neglect.

   I am at a loss how to direct to you, another circumstance this, which I am exceedingly sorry for, & the more so as I think it must be disagreeable to General Gates to deprive you of the Command of the Eastern district without solid foundation or real necessity for the measure.(1) I can nevertheless & do with great truth subscribe that I am, Sir, Your most obedt. & most humble Servt,

    Henry Laurens, Private

   I was honored with your favor of the 27th August and the 13th

   Instant.(1) It was left at my house by some unknown hand. I presented

   Congress have appointed Stephen Drayton Esqr. Deputy Quarter Master general in the Southern Department by an Act of the 17th Instant which I shall transmit to that Gentleman by the Messenger who is to be bearer of this.(2) I have the honor to be, With great Respect, Sir, Your Obedient Servant

   I have lately received a Letter from our worthy Friend Mr. J. A. Of an old Date, the 21st of May.(1) "Our Affairs says he in this Kingdom, I find in a State of Confusion & Darkness that surprizes me. Prodigious Sums of Money have been expended and large Sums are still due; but there are no Books of Accounts nor any Documents from whence I have been able to learn what the United States have receivd as an Equivalent." And yet we are told by a Gentleman lately from France that the Accounts & Documents were left in the Hands of a Person in Paris. My Friend A. L (2) is called by those who dread his Vigilance "a dissatisfied Man." Having receivd many Letters from him since I last saw you, I know he is dissatisfied. What Man who regards the Publick Interest, or his own Reputation, can be satisfied, when he sees Millions of Livres spent, himself accountable with others for the Expenditure, and the Man through whose hands the greatest Part has passd without consulting him after being repeatedly called upon by him, unready or unwilling to account for them. There are other Things which my Friend complains of, and I think not without Justice. When I consider the high Character which

   23. Monday. Congress sit in the evening untill after 10 oClock.(1) I received a letter from Miss Holten per the post.

   Monsr. Gérard the Minister Plenipotentiary of France will be, provided he meets no obstruction on the Road, at Bethlehem on Wednesday the 25th Inst. about midday. This worthy Character merits regard from all the Citizens of these States, an acquaintance with him will afford you satisfaction & I am persuaded his Visit will

   I hold myself always responsible to a Creditor & if my debt is greater than he is apprized of I think it mean to avail myself of little remissnesses on his part as a pretext for concealing a little of the Account, nor will I take advantage of my Lord because he has gone into a far Country, nor hazard my fame to be ranked with the cursed unaccountable, He to be, accountable, family, the most numerous & most infamous of all the tribes in the Northern & Eastern parts of our ununited States.

   When about 13 Months ago you left York Town you were pleased to deposit in my hands five hundred & twenty Paper Dollars & said you would inform me from Fredericksburg how to dispose of them, this I esteemed an honorary procuration, & although you have failed of your promises to write, yet as I have heard of no supersedeas I hold myself to be your true & Lawful Attorney in the State of Pennsylvania, in virtue of my power therefore I have paid to Mrs. Middleton's Chestnut Street Housekeeper one hundred & twenty five Dollars which the good Woman says ought to have been twenty five golden Guineas. I received from her several articles of your household furniture which she had saved from the claws of the Enemy, & profiting by her information, I have by a little address of my own & much adroitness of Mr. James Custer [squeed?] out a great many more from your late Landlady, the whole as James informs me falls short of Mrs. Morton's account, & he is therefore determined to exercise

   The state of the Garrison at New York, the disaster of Byron's fleet, the escape of Count d'Estaing & the prospect of his running in triumph through the West India Islands are topics of our present conversation, you will read more extended accounts of each in the News Papers & this moment we learn by a Vessel from the West Indies of a second engagement between Mons. d'Orvilliers & Ad. Keppel in which the former 'tis said gained a victory. I wish this may be true.

   I have the honor to be, With great Respect, Sir, Your obedient & most humble servant, Henry Laurens.

   Examination of witnesses in Congress Monday Nov 23. 1778 respecting the charge against brigr. gen. Thompson.(1)

   John Evans Esqr. sworn, (2) says

   On Wednesday Evening was sitting in a box in the coffee House with Mr. McKean and others, when brig T. came in. That Mr. MK called brig. T. who came and sat down; That Mr. MK in a good natured way told him he had good news to tell him. Thinking it to be some private matter I turned away & did not attend, till I heard brig. T. raise his voice in a loud manner.

   That brig T said he had been treated in a rascally manner by Congress and particularly by you (speaking to Mr. MK). You are a damned rascal, I ought to have been exchanged long ago. Some who have been taken asleep in their bed have been exchanged. But I who was taken in the field fighting am not exchanged.

   Q. Do you recollect to have heard brig Thompson say Congress are damned rascals?

   A. I do not recollect more than what I have said.

   Q. When brig T said he had been treated by Mr MK in a rascally manner did you conceive it alluded to his conduct in Congress?

   A. I conceived it to be for what Mr. MK did in Congress relative to exchange. My reason for thinking so was Brig. T. said, he was not obliged to Congress, he was obliged to genl Clinton: that he would follow G.C. to great Britain, if he required it.

   Brig. T. question: Did I go into the box where Mr MK was?

   A. Yes and sat down.

   Q. Did you understand I meant any abuse to Congress or personally to Mr MK?

   A. I cannot say what his intention was. I have stated facts.

   Question repeated.

   A. I cannot say.

   Col. Jos. Deane sworn.(3)

   Q. Were you in the Coffee house on Wednesday evening?

   A. Yeas.

   Q. Did you hear the conversation that passed between Mr MK & brig T?

   A. I heard part of it. I was at the Coffee house on Wednesday Evening when brig T. came in. Mr. MK called him. He came and sat down in the box. Upon which I went to the other side of the house. Presently I heard very loud words. The House was in Confusion. I thought the gentlemen would come to blows. Upon which I went up and stept in between them, Mr MK & brig T. Many words

   Q. Did you hear what Mr MK first said to brig T. when he came into the box?

   A. I did not, because I left the box when he came up.

   Q. Did you hear any expressions of brig. T. reflecting on Congress?

   A. I do not recollect any.

   Q. Did you hear any dispute about a boy?

   A. Towards the latter end of the dispute when I got in between them I heard brig T. mention a summons which Mr. McK had sent him. Mr. MK said it was not a summons but a letter.(4)

   B[rigadier] T[hompson] Q[uestion]. Did you understand from any thing I said that I intended any abuse to Congress?

   A. I do not recollect to have heard Congress mentioned.

   John Purviance sworn.(5)

   I was in the Coffee house on Wednesday evening, & saw gen T in a passion, And heard him frequently repeat the word rascal which I imagined he intended to apply to Mr MK as he was addressing him. I do not recollect any particular expressions.

   B[rigadier] T[hompson] Q[uestion]. Did you understand I intended to reflect upon Congress?

   A. I did not hear the word Congress mentioned.

   M. Thos Bradford sworn.(6)

   I was in the box with Mr MK & Col Little on Wednesday evening, we were talking about the officers being called in by genl Clinton when gen. T. came in. I said there is gen T. upon which Mr. MK called him. When he came up I left the box & went to another part of the house. Presently I heard them speaking very loud. Gen. T. seemed to reflect hard upon some body of men, whether commissary of prisoners or whom I cannot say. He said he was not exchanged, while others who were taken in their beds were exchanged.

   I heard him say several times to Mr. MK. you are no gentleman and touching him on the shoulder ask him are you a gentleman. Mr MK said not in the sense you mean. I will make your heart ake for this. Genl. T. said, I will make your bones ake for this.

   Q. Did you hear the beginning of the conversation?

   A. I heard Mr. MK call gen T. to the box but did not hear what Mr MK said first to gen T. because I then retired.

   Q. Did you hear gen T. use any terms of abuse agt Congress?

   A. I cannot say that I heard the word Congress used.

   Here he began to tell what he thought and what he imagined but was interrupted and desired to relate the expressions used.

   I cannot relate any expressions. Gen T reflected hard upon some body of people.

   Q. On what account?

   A. Respecting exchange.

   Q. In what terms did Genl. T. reflect on that body of Men?

   A. I thought he reflected on them for partiality in the exchange.

   Q. Was the word partiality used?

   A. No. But I thought he seemed to charge them with partiality.

   Pres.(7) Repeat the expressions used, not what you think or imagine.

   A. I don't remember any particular expressions.

   Q. On what occasion was the word rascal used?

   A. It was repeated often, but cannot say particularly at what time or on what occasion.

   Q. You said G. T. reflected hard upon some body of men & that it was respecting exchange, do you recollect what genl Thomp. said on that occasion?

   A. Gen T said prisoners have been exchanged who were taken in their bed while I who was taken fighting in the field am not exchanged. I thot. this related to the exchange of Mr. McKinly but am not certain. I may be mistaken.

   Q. Did you hear Mr MK say he was ordered by the Delaware state to solicit the exchange as Mr Pres. McKinly?

   A. I did not.

   Q. Did you hear any thing about a summons?

   A. Gen T told Mr MKean he had used him ill, he had sent A summons for him. Mr MK said it was not a summons. Gen. T. said it was. Mr MK said it was not. G T. said it was. Mr MK said, well produce it. G T. said I have not got it. M MK said, What have you done with it. Gen T. said I wiped my arse with it. You are no gentleman. Then touching him on the shoulder said are you a gentleman.

   Q. Was this conversation before or after what was said respecting exchange?

   A. It was after this that I heard what was said respecting exchange.

   Q. What was the subject when you heard Gen T use the word rascally?

   A. I cannot recollect.

   Q. Was the expression rascal or rascally treated applied to the body of people you said were severely reflected on?

   A. I cannot say.

   Q. What terms were used agst. the body of Men?

   A. Men who were taken sleeping in their beds have been exchanged while I am left unexchanged who was taken in the field fighting.

   G T[hompson] Q[uestion]. Was the term rascally applied when the affair of the summons was talked of?

   A. I cannot say.

   Q. Was the term rascally used during the subject of exchange?

   A. I cannot recollect.

   Mr P. Fooks sworn,(8) said

   Gen. Thompson was sitting in the box when he went into the coffee house. That high words passed between him & Mr MK. That he heard Mr MK desire Gen. T. to be quiet and he wd. explain the matter. It was only a letter. G. T. said it was a summons. That he was sorry to see two gentlemen for whom he had a respect abuse each other, and did not attend so as to repeat expressions. This is all he Knows.

   Brig Thompson desired some witnesses might be sworn & examined; whereupon Major Forrest was sworn,(9) say[s]

   He was in the Coffee house on Wednesday. That he heard Gen. T. say to Mr MK I despise you. I have been treated scandalously. Mr MK said I meant to befriend you. Gen T. replied Damn your friendship. Old women taken in their beds have been exchanged while my hands are tied.

   Q. Did you hear any expressions reflecting upon Congress?

   A. I did not hear Congress mentioned, I thought it was a private quarrel.

   Q. What Did you conceive the quarrel to be about?

   A. I did conceive it to be relative to the exchange.

   Q. Did you hear president McKinly named?

   A. I did not. I understood Mr. McKean said he was president of the Delaware state.

   Q. Did you hear any mention made of gov Franklin?

   A. I did not.

   Q. Was you present at the beginning of the dispute.

   A. I thought I was but from the evidence given I find I was not.

   Q. Do you recollect any terms of reproach in the dispute?

   A. I heard gen T. call Mr MK a damned rascal, after which I heard Mr MK call gen. T. a dirty low fellow.

   Q. Did you understand the word rascal applied to him as to member of congress?

   A. I did not.

   Q. On what occasion was the term used?

   A. I understood it was about the exchange. And that Mr MK had prevented gen. T's exchange.

   Q. Did you hear the term rascal used on any other occasion than in the dispute about the exchange.

   A. I heard it used about the exchange and also about some affair that happened in Carlisle.

   Q. Did you imagine that gen T. called Mr MK a rascal for anything he had done or said in Congress?

   A. I did not know that Mr. McK was a member of Congress.

   Jos. Carsan sworn,(10) says He saw gen T. go into the box where Mr McK was, soon after there were high words between them. Gen T. said M McK was a damned rascal. That there had been persons exchanged who were taken in their beds and he was not exchanged.

   Q. Did you hear the word rascal or rascally applied to Congress?

   A. I did not.

   Q. You hear any other subject of dispute than the exchange?

   A. When gen T was in the heighth of his passion I heard him talk of a summons.

   Q. What did brig T. say when he went first into the box to Mr MK?

   A. I was not within hearing when gen T. went into the box.

   Q. Did you hear gen T. say anything against congress?

   A. I did not.

   Mr. Alexander Holmes (11) sworn, say[s]

   He was in the Coffee house on Wednesday evening, heard gen T. repeatedly say he had been very ill treated; that one or more who had been taken in their beds had been exchanged, while he was neglected, that he seemed to be in a great passion with Mr MK & said had it not been for him and some other rascals, he would not have been in the situation he was in.

   Q. Did you hear any other subject of dispute between them?

   A. I heard some dispute about a boy.

   Q. Did you hear Gen T call Mr M a rascal?

   A. Yes, I heard him say you are a rascal, thought he applied it to Mr McK.

   Q. Did you hear what Mr MK first said to brig T?

   A. I was not present at the beginning of the dispute. I heard Mr MK say to gen T. I am your superior. Gen. T. resented this and seemed in a great passion.

   Q. Did you hear any mention of governor Franklin?

   A. I do not recollect that I heard govr. Franklin named.

   Q. Was the conversation about the boy before or after the expressions, "had it not been for him &c"?

   A. I think it was after.

   Q. Did you think those expressions, had it not been for him and some other rascals &c, alluded to Mr MK conduct in Congress?

   A. I did not know that Mr MK was a member of Congress.

   Mr. Alexr. Nesbit (12) sworn, says

   He was not present at the beginning of the dispute, when he came up to them he heard Mr MK say to genl T. I am your superior, to which gen T. replied You my superior. You are a damned rascal.

   Q. Did you hear brig T. reflect upon Congress?

   A. I did not hear any reflections against Congress?

   Mr John Pringle (13) sworn, says.

   He was in the coffee house, heard some person tell Gen T wanted to speak to him. Gen T. went to the box. Gen T. said something about exchange. Mr. MK you will be exchanged. Gen T. replied. NO thanks to you for that. He thought he was very ill used, from what gen T said it semed to him that gen T. thought there was an exchange made in preference to him. He said his hands were tied, got very angry and used harsh expressions.

   Q. What were those expressions?

   A. I heard him say, you are a damned rascal.

   Q. On what Occasion was this said, or for what did he call Mr MK a damned rascal?

   A. I think it was on account of the exchange.

   Q. Did you hear Brig T say any thing agt. Congress?

   A. I did not hear any thing about Congress.

   Q. Did you hear any thing about a deserter or summons?

   A. Gen T. came out of the box walked across the floor, then went back toward the box and said Mr MK used him ill about a deserter.

   Q. Did you hear any thing respecting Mr President McKinly?

   A. Something dropped abt. Mr MKinly, but just at that time I turned and went to another part of the house, did not hear distinctly what it was.

   Q. Did you hear Brig T. blame Congress on account of exchange?

   A. I did not hear gen T blame any but Mr MK relative to the exchange.

   Colo. Patton (14) sworn, says

   He was at a distance, dont know the cause of the dispute. Heard genl T. call Mr MK a rascal, and heard Mr MK call gen T a low dirty fellow.

   Mr. Michael Gratz (15) sworn, says

   He was at the Coffee house when gen T came in heard somebody Mr MK wanted to see him. Gen T. went, the deponent was at a distance, presently he heard gen T-

   Mr Thomas Penrose (16) affirmed, says

   When he came in to the coffee house he heard a dispute between gen T. & Mr MK about a deserter. Afterwards he heard genl T. ask Mr MK if he was a gentleman. He did not hear what Mr MK said in reply.

   Q. Did you hear any reflections on Congress?

   A. I do not recollect to have heard anything about Congress.

   Doctr. MKinzie (17) sworn, says

   He knows very little, He heard gen T. call Mr MK a rascal and

   Mr MK call gen T a low dirty fellow. Afterwards Gen T asked Mr MK if he was a gentleman.

   Col William Bradford (18) sworn, says

   He was upstairs in his room when the dispute began, upon some person coming & telling him there was like to be a quarrel in the coffee room, he immediately went down. The first words he heard were, Mr MK said to gen T. I am your superior. Gen T said, You my superior, I'll let you know you are not my superior. Mr MK said to gen T you are a rascal, gen T said you are a damned rascal.

   Quest. by Mr MK. Are you sure I called gen T. a rascal, pray recollect.

   A. Yes, I am certain of it. He said to gen T. You are a rascal And I was astonished at it.(19)

   The witnesses being examined brigr. genl Thompson addressed Congress & said If any expressions were used by him respecting the exchange which might give offence, he hoped the situation of his Mind & the circumstances attending his captivity would be taken into consideration and allowances made and that they will not be imputed to an intention of insulting Congress for whose honour & dignity he has the highest respect. He begs the patience and favourable attention of Congress, while he states a few facts relative to himself.

   In the beginning of the year 1776 he was sent into Canada. While there Genl Sullivan being informed that a large body of troops were sent into that province judged it proper to attack them in detail, and for that purpose sent him with a body of Men to attack a party at trois Rivieres. That in Obedience to his Orders he marched & made the attack. The enemy were more numerous than was expected. He had the misfortune not to succeed and to be taken prisoner. But even his enemies acknowledged he had done his duty & behaved gallantly, that he was taken in the field with his sword in his hand. That while he was on board a prison ship in the harbour of Quebec Gen Sullivan & gen Lord Stirling were captivated on Long Island and quickly exchanged.(20) That though he did not mean to depreciate the merits of those generals, he hoped he should not be deemed presumptuous when he thought himself not behind them in the discharge of his duty. That though by this his feelings were wounded he quietly submitted to the pleasure of Congress.

   That after this being permitted to return home on parole, he waited with patience until Congress should have it in their power to exchange him and give him an Opportunity of again entering into the service of his country.

   That after this genl Lee was captivated and after a time exchanged.(21) The reputation of that officer and the expectation America

   What he felt, when deprived of this last hope, it is more easy to imagine than describe. But however deep the wound or keen the sensation, his sensibility was still more deeply wounded by reflecting on the person preferred to him and the circumstances attending the capture if not surrender of the person preferred.(22) He will not dwell on those circumstances nor on the character of the person. This may be inviduous. They are Known. Congress doubtless had good reason. But stranger as he was to those reasons he felt the most pungent pain, that a man taken in his bed, sleeping when the enemy was at his door, who had never hazarded himself in defence of his Country, should be preferred to him who was taken in the field, in the discharge of his duty in a hazardous but unsuccessful enterprize.

   Still however by the courtesy of the enemy, though deprived of what he most eagerly wished for, an opportunity of sharing in the dangers of his Country, & employing his talents, if any he has, in her defence in the hour of her distress when a savage foe was desolating her frontiers, still by the courtesy of the enemy he was indulged with the sight of his wife & children. But upon coming to Town last Wednesday and finding himself by the call of the enemy deprived of this last comfort & that instead of returning to visit his wife and children, that are very dear to him & whom he tenderly loves, he must now be dragged to a prison & possibly to end his life in a prison Ship or in a cold jail in Halifax, & when under the poignancy of his grief and distress he was as he thought tantalized with a new hope by a man to whom he owed no obligations but rather thought himself aggrieved on some former occasions, his patience deserted him and under those circumstances he is sensible he expressed himself with some asperity against that gentleman. But whatever his expressions might be or however they might strike others, he solemnly declares he

   Two posts have arrived and not a single line from New Hampshire. I had many promises of a constant correspondence before I left home but these I find are forgotten, however as I am determined to clear myself of a charge of failure on my part, I think it but just to tell you that this is the last time I shall trouble you unless it is your choice to keep up the correspondence. The Marine Committee have signified their pleasure to the Navy Board that the Ranger should be fitted out under the command of Mr. Simpson.(1) For very good reasons I found it improper to press for a new commission for him at present. However [. . .] his having the command will content him. I should be very sorry to loose so good an officer as I think he will make. I have wrote him on the subject.(2)

   I wish I could find some method to get Flour to Portsmouth as I imagine it will be much wanted could vessels be procured with you to take one quarter for the freight and take their own risk? If this could be done I don't know but I could get some ships on the public acct but none will be suffered on private acct.

   The villainous Monopolizers (or as they call themselves speculators) have raised the price of Flour to 20 dollars here but measures are taken to check this villainy. I wish they may prove efficacious. Please to tell Mrs. W. I have not time to write this post nor shall I find time very often unless she can. Your neglected Friend,

    Wm. Whipple.

   The President, before any of the Members could be Supplied with the printed Treaties with France, sent them on to the Governors of the Several States; I take the liberty, (fearing some Accident may have prevented your receiving them) to Inclose one to Your Excellency. These Treaties ought to have been thrown out to the public immediately, but Congress out of their great wisdom thought Otherwise. This business was done after the return of the No. Carolina Delegates, Mr. Burke & myself stayed & sat in Congress as long as we were Authorized by the State to give a Vote. Your Excellency must also have been informed by Mr. Blount when the requisition was made for 500,000 Dollars, No Delegate of No. Carolina was or could be present with propriety.

   We have however-patched up this business; 400,000 Dol. have been sent on to Accomplish the first business, and 150,000 to Mr. Blount exclusive of the Other Sum, towards forwarding the Southern Expedition. The President has no doubt informed you of the Views of Congress Should The Enemy not think proper to make an attack on Chas. Town.(1) I am not at present at liberty to Communicate it, as the injunction of Secrecy is not yet taken off. I should imagine Your Excellency would have Influence sufficient to induce the late Levies, to March forward this winter & that as early as possible with Some Volunteers from the Militia. I am one of those Old Politicians who had much rather See my Neighbours house on fire than my Own, but at the same time would lend every Assistance in my Power to quench the flame. St. Augustine during the Continuance of this war (from Her Scituation) will constantly have it in her power, not only to distress our poor frontier State Georgia, by land, but to embarrass and Almost ruin the trade of the four Southern States by their Privateers. Genl. Lincoln whom I had not the Pleasure to See, will Communicate to you the Views of Congress, & I hope he may Inform them, of what may be expected from Our State, after Consulting with you.

   Genl. Howe is Ordered to head Quarters. The little ridiculous matters he has been concerned in, in So. Carolina with regard to a female, has induced the Delegates of Georgia & So. Carolina to desire his recall. Congress Complied with their request but do not intend to enter into the private Amours of their Generals. I hope our friend (should the war Continue) will have an Opportunity of displaying his abilities (which Congress Acknowledge) in the field of Mars as well as of Venus.(2)

   I have mentioned Several times to Your Excellency my desire of remaining at home. I am too old to be sent here. It behooves the State to send Men of much greater Abilities than myself. I am now not many years from 60. The Other States have fallen upon a method of keeping some of their Delegates here, who have served from the beginning-Viz. Massachusetts, N York, Virginia &c. But Should the States think proper to Change their Delegates they ought at least to send forward the first men, (I mean as to their Abilities) in the State. N. York has invariably pursued this Plan & have profited by it.

   I would not be thought to derogate from the Gentlemen who are with me, I have experienced on every Occasion, their Good Sense, their Honesty & Integrity of heart. But by Changing Your Members often you must of Course know as I am Convinced every Man of Sense must, that it will take a young man of Genius, Ability & Application, three Months at least to make himself well acquainted with the business of Congress-And after he has Accomplished it, in a few months, another is Appointed, who has the same process to go through before he can be made useful to his State, let his Abilities be ever so great & uncommon. I have taken the liberty to give your Excellency my Opinion on this Great Subject with an intention never more to return in the Character my Country has been pleased to honor me with, unless I am forced into it. This letter has been written with a Violent pain in my Stomach, which I suppose a Symtom of the Gout (my Old Companion); I have neither time or Inclination to Correct either the Diction or Grammar. It is intended for yourself. If I have in my incoherent manner, thrown out any hint that may Strike you & be useful to my Country I shall be happy indeed. I send the last papers, & expect Mr. Burke or Mr. Hill every hour to relieve me. I have the Honor to be with great respect, Your Excellencys, Most Obed & very hu Servt. Cornl. Harnett

   I have already written to you by this conveyance under the 16th, since which I have had the honor of receiving & presenting to Congress your favors of the 7th & 9th which are committed to the Board of Treasury for consideration & Report.(1)

   The injuries which you received by the fall from your carriage, I had heard of in much more alarming terms than your own account, I am rejoiced to learn, you were so well recovered as to be able to prosecute your journey. I am in hopes the mild Climate of South Carolina will restore your strength.

   Capt Barry having made some extraordinary demands on Congress, for allowance of a Table & a Secretary, which: the House have not determined upon, is detained here. I believe Capt Barry to be a brave & active Seaman, but I am told by Gentlemen of the Marine Committee that the intended service is not pleasing to him, 'tis possible therefore he may wish to avoid it, & besides, you will find old Commanders in the two southern States who will be much mortified should he actually proceed & take the Command of them, consequences will arise which will be disagreeable to you & which may prove detrimental to the service. I have suggested these sentiments to the Marine Committee,-the determination of Congress will probably be known to morrow.(2)

   Inclosed with this be pleased to receive an Act of Congress of the 17th Inst. for subjecting the Troops raised in the State of South Carolina to the same regulations as the other forces of the United States are under except in Cases governed by contrary stipulations; for explaining a Resolve of the 16th September 1776 respecting the appointment of Officers on the general Staff & for appointing Capt Ed. Hyrne dep. adjutt. gen. & Stephen Drayton Esqr dep. Q.M. gen. in the sothern department.(3)

   I have the honor to be with great Regard Sir Your obedient & most humble servt, Henry Laurens, President of Congress

    Since our last of the 19th we are favoured with yours of the 5th instant (1)_we are pleased to find you have settled Colo. Langdons Account and paid him the balance. We observe you have contracted for building two of the Packet Boats we ordered which we think will be sufficient for the present as every thing is so extravagantly dear. If you have not already agreed for building a third One we desire it may not be done.

   The Bill you have drawn upon us in favour of Colo. Langdon when it Appears shall be duely honored & paid.

   The enclosed Resolves of the 26th August 1776 will inform you what provision Congress have made for Officers & Seamen disabled in their service. We are now forming a New system of Rules & Regulations for the Navy and would be glad you would send us any remarks that you may think will Assist in that work. Application has been lately made to us for pay and Prize Money by Mr. Hill who it appears has served with a good deal of Merit as a volunteer on board the Ship Ranger.(2) We think when he Acted as an officer where there was a vacancy he ought to receive the Same pay as the Officer in whose station he acted, and we request you will ascertain that matter and pay him accordingly. With regard to his prize Money we cannot order him more than a Common share, but are of opinion if he did act in a vacancy that the Officers of the class should allow him the Share of the officer whose place he filled.

   We request you will forward us an exact List of all the Commissioned Officers in your department with the dates of their Commissions and how they are now employed.

   We are Gentlemen, Your Hble servants

   We now take up the pen although we have nothing that we imagin is new to communicate; because we would not subject ourselves to the imputation of neglect.

   Adml. Byron's Ship and five of his fleet have arrived off Sandy-hook in a shatter'd condition. The Admls Ship hath lost her Bow-spreet, mizen-mast and main-top-mast, the others are all dismasted. We may adopt Queen Elizabeth's motto on the dissipation of the Spanish Armada on this occasion. St. Vincents is taken; and, now Count DeEstaing is left uninterruptedly to persue his operations in the W. Indias, we may soon expect to hear of the conquest of all the Windward-Islands; and perhaps of the destruction of the fleet which sailed from New York about the same time that the Count left Boston. The Hollanders are well disposed towards Us. They want a share of our commerce. We hear nothing from Spain. The important business of financing is on the carpet and We hope Congress will soon be able to take such measures for reducing the quantity of money in circulation, as will check the depretiation of it at least, if not appretiate it. Taxation & loaning are the only engines to effect this purpose.

   Thus, Sir, we have thrown together every thing we can recollect of any kind of consequence, and are with great respect, Your Excellency's most obedient, humble Servants, William Ellery

    John Collins

   Enclosed are the Treaties between His Most Christian Majesty and the United States, which Congress have ordered to be sent to the Government of each State. It is not thought expedient to publish them at present in the newspapers.(1)

   We are informed that the Assembly of New-Jersey have at length acceded to the Confederation, and authorized their Delegates to ratify it in Congress.(2) The Assembly of Maryland is also now sitting-'tis hoped the two latter will agree to the Articles of Confederation before they rise.

   Congress has for some days past attended to the affair of the Currency every day, & have agreed to persevere until some measures are concluded on. They have some votes on the subject, but no plan is completed. We have no material News from foreign parts-and whether the Enemy intend to evacuate N. York this Winter remains as yet uncertain.

   The Committee on the late Commissary General's affairs have not reported since the recommitment.

   The appointment of Jonth. Trumbull Junr. Esqr. to the Office of Comptroller of the Treasury was unanimous. His acceptance of the Trust, and speedy entry upon the execution of it, would, I apprehend, be much for the Public good.

   I begin to be impatient for the arrival of some of the Delegates from Connecticut, as my affairs require my return home. I hope two will come forward immediately. I wrote to Colo. Dyer and Mr. Root on the subject some time ago, but have received no answer.(3)

   The prices of articles are very high here-from six to eight times as high as they were in the year 1774. It is difficult for any one State to fix a Standard in trade for itself without injury to the general interest. I hope a scheme will soon be adopted for doing justice to the Public and individuals without any violation of the Public Faith.

   I am with great Esteem & Regard, Your Excellency's Obedient hble Servant, Roger Sherman

   I need not acquaint you that the State of New Hampshire has not been represented since the commencement of this month as Col. Bartlett will inform you. He left Congress the day before I arrived, which was the 4th inst. Since my arrival New Jersey has acceeded to the confederacy & it's dayly expected Maryland & Delaware will follow the example. The Confederacy then being compleat, less than two delegates will not be a representation even 'tho one should be empowered by the State for that purpose.

   The Spirit of Monopolizing under the name of Speculating rages with great violence through the United States the consequence of which must prove fatal unless the interposition of the Legislatures of the several States can check its fury. The plan of finance now under consideration of Congress will have a good effect when compleated, but that as well as many other important matters are exceedingly retarded for want of a full representation. Only nine States have been represented since my arrival 'till within three days, there are now Eleven States barely represented, this tardiness in the States or their Delegates, besides retarding the most important Business makes it exceeding fatiguing to those that do attend.

   I have the Honour to transmit you the Treaty of Alliance &c &c between His most Christian Majesty and the United States of America.

   No intelligence has been received since Col. Bartletts departure we are still in suspence about the Enemies intentions at New York 'tho it is most generally believed they will evacuate that place.

   I have The Honour to be, with every Sentiment of Esteem & Respect, Sir, Your Most Obt Humle Sert, Wm. Whipple

    25. Wednesday. Congress spent part of this day in a Come. of the whole house, on finances.

   This will be delivered to you by Lt. Colo. Crenis (1) lately in the Service of the United States, he having the leave of the Congress to resign his Commission, and being desirous of embraceing the earliest Opportunity of going to France, he purposes at Boston to the Marquis De Lafayette in hopes of being Accommodated with a passage on board the frigate destined for Accommodating the Marquis, but in Case Lt. Colo. Crenis should fail in that application and apply to you we desire you will give him a passage in the first vessel you may send to France. We are Gentn, Your most hble servants

   My last was under the 24th. since which I have been honored with Your Lordship's favor of the 23d.(1) The packet which accompanied it is from Admiral Gambier, its contents, relate to Lieut. Hele & others who were shipwrecked in a vessel on the Jersey Shore said to have carried a flag in order to dispense Manifestoes.(2) The Admiral is of opinion these people ought not to be confined, Congress have a twofold reason for differing with him. These people have not only called, but in every instance where it might be done as they thought with impunity, treated us as Rebels-on the other hand when it suited their Interest and purposes, they pretend to caput, for they demand from us refinements upon the practice of established Independent Nations-God be praised we are out of their reach & I am persuaded our conduct will not be censored by any Court of Europe, St. James excepted, hitherto it has stood the Test. & whenever it is brought

   Your Lordship will receive with this two of this Morning's Advertisers which is all I have to offer except repeating that I am with the highest Esteem & Respect, Sir Your Lordship's Obedient & most hum Servant, (Signed) Henry Laurens

   Since my last of the 20th Instant, I have had the honor of presenting to Congress Your Excellency's several Dispatches under the 13th, 16th, 16th, and 18th.(1)

   Inclosed with this, Your Excellence will receive four Acts of Congress as undermentioned.

   1. An Act of the 23d empowering the Commander in Chief to take such Measures respecting the Officers of the Convention mentioned in Major General Heath's Letter of the 2nd Instant as he shall judge proper.(2)

   2. An Act of the 24th authorizing the Commander in Chief to appoint a Brigadier General out of the Infantry, to Command the Cavalry.

   3. An Act of the same date for arranging the Army,(3) to which is subjoined a Resolution for granting a Commission in lieu of a Brevet to Lieutenant Colonel Stephens of the Artillery, as I presume Colonel Stephens is in Camp, I take the liberty of transmitting the Commission herewith, and of requesting Your Excellence to obtain the Exchange. I likewise transmit a Commission appointing Major Washington Lieutenant Colonel of Baylors Dragoons upon a presumption of this Gentleman's being returned to Camp, as I have not had the honor of seeing him, and the Commission has been filled some days past. Part of the Arrangement as it passed in Congress is a Resolve

   I have the honor to be &c.

   27. Friday. Congress Spent part of the day on finances, no news material. 28. Saturday I wrote a letter to the Council of Massa. Bay (1) Signifying my acceptance to a seat in Congress for the year 1779, in Answer to their request.

   The Resolutions of the General Assembly relative to the Appointment of the Delegates of the State for the ensuing Year, having been duely transmitted by the Deputy Secretary, I am to request the Favour of your communicating to the honorable Assembly my grateful Acknowledgements on this Occasion, & to assure them, that I shall at all Times carefully endeavour to merit the Confidence with which they have been pleased to honor me. I propose to return to Massachusetts as soon as Congress, who are very attentive to the publick Finances, shall have adopted Measures for placing them on a better Footing, & am inclined to think, from the Circumstances of my Health & private Concerns, that I shall be under the Necessity of continuing there many Months; the Assembly will therefore be pleased to judge of the Expediency of supplying my Place by a new Appointment.(1)

   I have the Pleasure sir of informing You that there is a happy Prospect of seeing the Confederacy speedily ratified; New Jersey has lately confirmed it, & there is Reason to expect that Delaware & Maryland will soon follow the Example & compleat it. This I humbly conceive to be the finishing Stroke of our Independence; but the Liberties of the People depending on their Virtue, can only be secured by the Preservation & Improvement of their Morals. I have the Honor to remain sir with the greatest Respect for Yourself & the General Assembly, your most obedt & very humble servant,

    E. Gerry

   I beg leave to refer Your Lordship to my last of the 26th by Dunn.

   We had an account in the beginning of this Week from St. Eustatia importing a second engagement between the French & English Fleets in the Channel, in which the former were victorious, & had taken & destroyed six British Line of Battle. Yesterday a Letter from Virginia informed us of the arrival of three Vessels from Bourdeaux in seven Weeks the Masters of which report the same thing with this variation, ' that the French had taken three of the Enemy's Ships." The

   Channel is deep enough to receive the other three, & I am no longer in doubt that there has been a second engagement-particulars we shall learn by & by. Had the Palm been given to Britain we should have heard of it in high terms from Mr. Rivington, but I remark the News writers in the Garrison are extremely costive in European Intelligence-we cannot believe that they are ignorant of so important an event as this in question at the period of two Calendar Months.

   Your Lordship will receive herewith two of Dunlaps Advertisers & will do me the honor to believe that I am with very great Esteem & Respect, Sir, Your Lordship's Obedient & Most Humble servt.

    Henry Laurens.

   After writing to Your Excellency Yesterday Morning, I had the honor of presenting to Congress Your Excellency's Letters of the 20th and 21st.(1) The latter was sent to the Board of War where the Papers respecting the Inspectorship are said to be lying. The former produced an Act for disbanding Bedel's Regiment, which with an Act of the same date the 27th for allowing additional Pay to the Officers of Warners, and other Officers in like circumstances, will be transmitted within the present Cover,(2) and also Copy of a Letter from Colonel Hartley to Congress dated Sunbury the 20th November 1778.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   We have the Honor of acknowledging the Receipt of your Favour of the 5th Instant, mentioning the Sum which the General Assembly have been pleased to grant to each of their Delegates, as Part of their allowance for their Services & Expences at Congress the ensuing Year, & desiring Us "to notify You seasonably whether We accept the Trust, or not;" in Answer to which We beg Leave to refer You to our several Letters herewith transmitted.(1)

   All the Information that We can give relative to the Disposition of the Flower referred to in your Letter, is principally contained in the inclosed Account received from Mr. Pelatiah Webster of this Place, who payed a Ballance of £467.2.6 Pennsylvania Currency to Mr. Gerry who will account for the same. In Addition to this, Mr. Webster on the 12th Decr 1776 payed fifteen hundred Dollars, being Part of the net Proceeds of the Snow Champion's Cargo of Flower, to Messieurs S. Adams & Gerry, who together with the hona. Mr. Hancock are chargeable for this Sum, having received five hundred Dollars each. Mr. Webster informed Us in July last, that the Residue of the Champion's Cargo was in the Hands of Major Henry Fisher of Lewis Town in the State of Delaware, in Consequence whereof We wrote him a Letter agreable to the Copy inclosed,(2) but have not yet received his Answer. As the Remittances from the State, & Advances to Mr. William Barrel of this place, deceased, for purchasing the Flower, were negotiated solely by Mr. Hancock, We beg Leave to refer the hona Board to him for further Information relative to the quantity of Flower & Iron purchased for the State, what was taken or lost, & what remains to be accounted for, as well as for a final Adjustment of the Accounts, being with the greatest Respect for the honorable Board & Yourself, sir your most obedt & very humble serts. Sam Adams

    E Gerry

    James Lovell

   P.S. Mr. Webster also in Sept. 1777 paid two hundred Dollars to Mr. Lovell, and acknowledges about ninety Pounds to be now in his Hands as Ballance due to the State.

   Permit me the liberty to refer to the enclosed letter from Mrs. Ferguson to me, and to assure the Hon'ble the Council, through you, that in the most free and intimate Conversation with that Lady I never could discover the least tincture of disaffection to our America, but on the contrary, she has repeatedly declared an inviolable attachment to her interest.

   If the Hon'ble Council should favor the Ladys request I dare vouch for her Integrity, and that her plighted promise will be sacredly regarded.(1) I am, with most respectfull Regard to Council, their and your Most obt & very huml Servt, Daniel Roberdeau.

   Inclosed with this Your Lordship will find a Letter which I have written by Order of Congress to Rear Admiral Gambier, and which I request you to send in to New York by a Flag without delay.(1) It may be necessary to intimate that this is in Answer to the Letter from the Admiral which Your Lordship transmitted to me a few days since, and in which there is an implied menace of retaliation for the confinement of Lieut. Hele and others, who with a Cargo of Manifestoes under sanction of a Flag of truce, were lately shipwreck'd on the Coast of New Jersey. The subject in dispute will not warrant the Act and the means we are possessed of for retorting tenfold will probably shew the Admiral that his threats are altogether futile, and therefore I am under no great apprehension of a seizure on your Lordships' Messengers, at the same time the hint is not useless.

   I have the honor to be &c.

   I had the honor of writing to Your Lordship yesterday; Will you permit me now to ask a very great favor of Your Lordship, design'd more for the public benefit than for my private convenience or amusement, that Your Lordship will endeavor to procure for me as early as may be, one or two Copies of Vatell's Law of Nations. I would rather have two than one; when I learn the cost of it or them, the amount in Gold or Silver shall be immediately remitted.

   Inclosed herein Your Lordship will find a Copy of Admiral Gambier's

   I intreat you Sir to pardon the liberty I have taken on the present occasion & believe me to be with very great respect & Esteem, Your Lordship's Obliged & obedient humble servant,

    Henry Laurens

   I was in great hopes I shod have heard from you & some other of my Friends, before this, but every snip I have receiv'd from N. Hampshire since my arrival here, is a very short letter from Mrs. W. & a line from Mr. Langdon telling me he was in so great a hurry he could not add. Since the receipt of those, two posts have arriv'd by which no body have thot it worth their while to write me a line. However I flatter my self I sh[ould] hear often from you when your retirement to winter Quarters will afford you opportunities of writing. I have the pleasure to hear by Mr. Frost (who arriv'd three days ago) that you were well abot the 7th inst. He also tells me you talk'd of writing by him, this circumstance leads me to hope to morrows post will bring me a letter from you.

   I wish I had any thing new to give you but as our intelligence comes chiefly from the Eastward you have it first. However I inclose you the latest News paper which will give you Ocular demonstration of their Barrenness. You will also find inclos'd The Treaties of Alliance &c between France & the United States. I dare say you will agree with me in opinion that these Treaties are concluded on terms much more favorable to America than we have any reason to expect, considering our circumstances. I wish to know the sentiments of People respecting them especially of those who have been esteem'd Enimies to the Revolution. The post goes out the day after tomorrow; if any thing new shod arrive before that time I shall give it you. As I have but few minutes to spare from public business I am obliged to improve such intervals as I can ketch to write to my Friends. Your Most affecte Bror. W.W.

   Novr. 30th 11 at night. No post yet ariv'd. I suppose the weather has detain'd him.

   I am entirely of opinion that there is not only much more villany in the transaction of our public affairs than we can fathom but more than we have any idea of. This Spanish Cargo discovers new wheels which have been running to private advantage under the guidance of public Agents. What can be done!

   I am glad De Francy is so sensible of the merit of your offer.(1) You will Pardon me when I tell you, that when you made it, I felt what your Son would have felt, had he heard you make it. It was an action worthy of you, greatly advantageous to the Public, & honourable to your Constituents. You took the lead in a Patriotic conduct-but there are none who are able or have the virtue to follow it. I can only admire & applaud; Being with great respect, Dr. Sir, Your most affectionate, humble Sevt. Wm H Drayton.

   I have not receiv'd a line from New Hampshire since my arrival here. Mr. Frost who arrived the 25th inst. Brot with him an act impowering one Delegate to represent the State. Had it been sent some time before the State would not have been so long unrepresented and his coming render'd the Act less necessary.(1) I wish to be informed what number of the journals of Congress have been sent to the state & whether any indexs have been sent to the first Volume.

   The Treaties of Alliance &c with France are printed. I sent one Book to the President last week, & shall send one to you by the first convenient opportunity.(2)

   Nothing material has happen'd since your departure. The business of finance goes on very slowly; however some of the principle Questions have pass'd the Committee of the whole which leeds me to hope we shall make a considerable progress in this important business in a

   Col Allen is here; he tells me the Green Mountain assembly have renounced the 16 towns and wrote to New Hampshire on the subject. Young Wealock is also here but I have not seen him-he seems to avoid me.(3) I shall write fully on this subject shortly.(4)

   Pray let me hear from you as often as possible. If I am to judge of the future by past proceedings I must expect no intelligence but through the chanel of private correspondents. I am, with great sincerity Yours, Wm Whipple

   I did myself the Honor a few Days ago, of joyning with my Colleagues in an Answer to your Letter to us of the fifth of November last, so far as it related to the Distribution of a Quantity of Flour purchasd on Account of the State of Massachusetts Bay. I beg Leave to refer you to our Letter,(1) which will be forwarded by this opportunity. The five hundred Dollars therein mentiond as receivd by me,

   I am informd that the General Assembly have been pleasd to appoint me one of their Delegates in Congress for the year 1779 (2) This repeated Mark of Confidence in me is indeed flattering. The Duties of the Department are arduous and pressing. I will never decline the Service of our Country; but my Health requires Relaxation, and at this Period of my Life my Inclination would lead me to wish to be employd in a more limitted Sphere. I will nevertheless continue to act in Congress to the utmost of my Ability in Pursuance of the Powers and Instructions with which I am honord, in hopes, that as the Month of April will complete another full year of my Residence here, I shall then be relievd by one of my absent Colleagues or some other Gentleman, and permitted to return to my Family.

   I am with every Sentiment of Duty & Regard to the General Assembly, Sir, Your Honors most obedient & very humble servant.

    Sam Adams

   You will receive herewith Mr Abraham Br. Bancker's Receipt for ninety four thousand Dollars being Part of the One hundred Thousand Dollars granted by Congress for the Service of the State of New York.(1) The Six thousand Dollars deficient have been disbursed in the following Manner, Vizt.

   

---

-270-

To Govr. Morris in the Month of June on Acct
of his Allowance as delegate, Per Receipt	2000
To William Duer do___ do___	33662/3
To Adam Foulk for an Atlas containing a
Number of American Charts for the Use of
the State of New York, per Rect.	100
To Francis Lewis being for so much paid
by him to Robt. Morris Esqr. on Acct. of
John Holt Printer to the State of New
York on Assumption of the Honble. Lewis
Morris one of the Delegates of said Stat	533 1/3
	6000 Drs.

   The Receipts for these Payments I shall produce when I have Pleasure of seeing you.

   I think it necessary to observe that the Sum which I had in my hands on Acct. of a Balance due from the Committee of Convention in Westchester County-Say about £1000 has been Expended in the

    following Manner.

   

To James Duane Esqr. per Receipt of
the 31st July 1777	1302 Drs.
To Phil. Livingston Esqr per do do	976
To Captain Cook on Acct.	70
	2348

   2348 Drs. equal to York Money £948.

   My Reason for Mentioning this is to shew the Necessity I have been under of drawing out of the One hundred thousand Drs. the Sum mentiond on the other Side-and though this would appear clear on my producing Receipts, I do not choose there should be a Surmise for a moment in these Times of Jealousy, that I have drawn any Sum from the Public Stock but what was due, and absolutely necessary for my Maintinance.

   I am, sir, with great Respect, Your Obed. Hble. servt.

    Wm. Duer

   So long as I have the honor to represent you in Congress, you need no other apology for sending me as many Letters & as much news as you please, &, in returns, demanding of me any Information it may be in my power to give & I may be at Liberty to communicate.

   For the present, I have only to say, in general, that American Affairs at this time put on a very good face [in] Europe & the West Indies; & afford ground to hope that the States of Holland, Spain & Great Britain will all announce her Independence before Spring.

   Our greatest Danger at present is from the wretched State of the Currency. This, Congress are paying all possible attention to, & had it not been a most embarrased as well as important subject, would before now have compleated their resolutions upon. Whatever other measures it may be necessary to adopt, a heavy Tax must be submitted to at all events & funds established for payment [of] Interest & to sink, in a reasonable time, the capital Debt; which tho' large indeed is by no means beyond our ability to discharge. The avails of one good horse or yoke of fat oxen would now, I believe, pay a midling Connecticut Farmer's proportion of it. A very cheap purchase for the prize we have been contending for; & which, it seems to be the disign of Heaven we shall soon have the full & peacable possession of.

   It was very kind in you to inform me of the welfare of my friends at Windsor & particularly of Mrs. Ellsworth & my little daughter, with an anecdote upon the latter, which, however trifling in its own nature, you rightly judged would appear ot[herwise] to a parent; and I sincerely wish you in due time all the pleasures without the pains I have known under this Relation.

   For the news of the day I refer you to the enclosed paper & am, with much esteem, Dear sir, your most obedt. & most hbl Servt.

    Oliver Ellsworth

   P.S. The paper is mislayd.

   The Legislature of our State having at Length complied with my ardent wishes in sending for the money which was long since obtained, and which I did hope, would have reached their Treasury many months ago, I cannot omit the first Opportunity of testifying to you my Joy on that Occasion. Money matters are, of all others, those which I wish to have least concern in. Many Reasons may be assigned for this, which your Delicacy will catch at a Glance. But among that many, there is not one which did not give me Solicitude while so considerable a Deposit remained with us. I say, with us, for altho I did not personally touch or take Charge of it, yet in the minds of my Constituents I was doubtless considered as one of those who was accountable for any accidents which might happen.

   My time being continually occupied, even to a minute, insomuch that I am under a necessity of borrowing large Portions from my

   Slumbers, I have not seen the act you allude to in your Letter. I am told however that an advance is made to each of the Delegates of 1000 Dollars. I am also told that in Consideration of the Expences which must necessarily have accrued by living in this Town, the Legislature have directed the additional Sum of three Dollars pr Day, to be paid since our arrival in this City.(1) I pray you, Sir, on the first convenient Opportunity to make the proper Returns on my Part for this equitable Provision. Since I am on the Subject of money, which I think will not be an object in many of my Letters, I am to observe that considering the high Trust with which I am honored by my Constituents, I determined to support the Character to the Extent of what would be afforded from my private Fortune. Whether the State would make Retribution rested indeed with their Generosity, but this was by no means a bad Foundation. At any Rate I knew the worst and after certain Expenditures, I should inevitably have quitted a station the Dignity of which I could not longer support. My expences have been by no means small.

   Before I left New York, an advance was made to me, but how much I cannot at present ascertain, for as the Receipt &ca., were of Record, I took no memorandum. In order that my account may be adjusted, I am to request, that I be considered in the Public Service as from the 25th of Dec'r 1778,(2) True it is I left the State much earlier, but I staid a considerable Time among my Friends in New Jersey, wherefore, counting the Days I was really on my Journey, back from the Time I Came to Congress, will bring it to that Period. In addition to what I received there, I have had of Mr. Duer 2000 Dollars, which he will I suppose charge in his accounts. I shall also receive now the 1000 Dollars before mentioned in advance. The auditor will find no Difficulty from these Data to make out a proper account which I hope may be done.

   I must again intreat that your Excellency will urge to the Legislature the Necessity of adjusting the public accounts so that Congress may finally settle the Ballance. I have the Pleasure to say that after many earnest Efforts the Treasury Board is at Length organized and I hope to see my Labors on this Occasion productive of some good Consequences to my Country. Hoping this greatest Reward I have the Honor to be your Excellency's most obedient & humble Servant

    Gouv. Morris.

   We are now to acknowledge the Honour of your Excellency's Dispatches of the 18th and 21st Ult.(1) by Messrs. Bancker and Wynkoop for whose return we made the necessary Preparations without delay. This day will be spent in counting and paying the money, a Trouble which will fall on Mr. Duer who has charged himself hitherto with the Care of it.

   We had the good Luck to recover the Copies of the Constitution of our State which were printed, and on our retiring to York Town, left in this City. They are forwarded by this Conveyance: part of the Expence of the Press was defray'd by Mr. Duer-& the remainder by Mr. Lewis which with the advance of 1000 Dollars for each of the present Delegates will be deducted out of the money granted by Congress.

   It gives us particular Pleasure that we are at Liberty to transmit to your Excellency several Copies of the Treaties of Amity and Commerce between his most Christian Majesty and the United States. Your Excellency will see how totally groundless have been the suspicions propagated by our Enemies respecting these Treaties. They will appear to be founded on perfect Equality, and in every Respect liberal and reciprocally beneficial. It is the Direction of Congress that no Impression of them be made untill their further order.

   We have not yet the Pleasure of Mr. Jay's Company.(2) Mr. Ethan Allen has lately presented a Paper to Congress, as an act of what they call the Assembly of the State of Vermont. It is calculated to shew that the New Hampshire Towns on the East side of Connecticut River which Joind in the Revolt had retracted and seperated from the Towns on the west side. The Design of this flimsy artifice is obvious: but it was a little unreasonable for the Projectors that only two days after the Production of this Paper, Lieut. Col. Wheelock presented a Remonstrance from the Revolted Towns on the East side of the River, complaining that Allen had no authority to make the before mentioned Declaration; that they utterly renounced it and adherd to their Revolt from New Hampshire.(3)This Incident renders ridiculous the Plan which Allen and his adherents boasted of as decisive. When Mr. Jay arrives we hope this important Subject will be taken up, notwithstanding Congress is pressed by a variety of Objects which call for attention and Dispatch.

   While we lament the reiterated sufferings of our Fellow Citizens from the Depredations of the savages and disaffected, we agree with your Excellency that every defensive system in a predatory war must prove vain and Chimerical and that a vigorous Irruption into the Enemy's Country can alone promise advantage and Safety. To this

   We have the Honour to be, with the utmost respect, Sir, Your Excellency's most Obedient humble Servants, Jas. Duane,

    Fra' Lewis,

    Gouv'r Morris.

   However much inclind I am to gratify your Requests generally, it would be improper for me to do it in the Instance you mention.(2)

   I have not thought myself at Liberty to gratify any of my Friends with the Loan of the Treaty. You will therefore excuse me. Yours, S. Adams

   I deliver'd Congress the Depositions your Excellency charged me with, respecting the Breach of the Convention of Saraghtoga by that part of Genl. Burgoine's army which was permitted to return into Canada. It is the desire of Congress that this perfidious proceedure may be exposed in the fullest Light, and they, therefore, request that your Excellency will endeavour to procure further Evidence, and, if possible, one of General Carlton's proclamations or orders requiring those Troops to join their respective Corpses.(1)

   One thousand Dollars in Specie are now delivered to Mr. Bancker for the purpose of making the necessary discoveries, to be employd in such manner as your Excellency shall be pleased to direct; when it is expended you will be pleased to remit the account to the Treasury board that you may be properly discharged. I did not think it necessary to send the Cont. money directed to be paid into your Hands, for the above purpose. It therefore, waits your disposal in the Treasury. I have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect Sir Your Excellency's most Obedient humble Servant,

    Jas. Duane.

   2. Wednesday. Congress sit in the Eveng. Mr. Temple from Boston dind with us. (1)

   I had the honor of addressing Your Excellency under the 16th

   Ultimo, and on the 18th of receiving and presenting to Congress your favor of the 9th.(1)

   Within the present Cover will be found two Acts of Congress viz.(2)

   1. of the 24th November for further arranging the Army. 5 Copies.

   2. An Act of the 30th for obtaining Forage for the Army of these United States.(3)

   Since my last of the 30th October I have had the honor of presenting to Congress your favor of the 6th Ulto.(1) This will convey an Act of Congress of the 27th November for allowing additional pay to the officers of Warner's and other Officers in similar circumstances.(2)

   I Am with great Respect &c.

   Since my last of the 10th Ulto. I have had the honor of presenting to Congress your favor of the 2nd of that Month with the Papers which accompanied it; these having been committed and further considered produced an Act of the 30th for supplying our friendly Indians with Cloathing upon moderate terms, and for securing the

   People.(1)

   Divers considerations have prevented hitherto Congress from entering upon that of the proceedings of the General Court Martial in your case, but it is to be taken up tonight, and I am going immediately after this Letter is finished to attend the House for that purpose.

   I have the honor to be &c.