You desire to know my Opinion with regard to the sentiments & conduct of Congress in the Advances made to members on Account of their States in the fall of the year 1779. I have examined the journals to assist my recollection. The practice of making advances to individual members was first introduced from necessity & was practised partially & sparingly, afterwards it became so general that most of the members & states seemed to depend upon it. Some of the states seemed at last to disapprove the measure, and as far as I can recollect the members from New Jersey first testified against it. And I well remember that some members seemed pleased with the vote of Congress for stopping farther emissions, as this would naturally put an end to such grants. However money was still granted to members on their application, but it always appeared to me to be given with reluctance after that vote, & the reluctance seemed to

   I am with much respect, Sr., Your Most obedient humble Servt Cha Thomson