autograpl) letters auD autograpl)?; of the SIGNERS of the DECLARATION of INDEPENDENCE OS" Qutograpl; JJcttcrs AND Qutojjrapljs OF THE SIGNERS of the DKCLARATION of INDEPENDENCE IN THE POSSESSION OF GEORGE C. THOMAS PHILADELPHIA pniitfD for priliiirf Cirfularion MDCTCC-V 111 l.OI'^ Klr.H 1 r.^-,S in (.l-ORl,h (. . I llOMA> 'i- 9 i908 ' APii Cuu*.l4 " '.'» '» CLASS 4 yic CuHV A. In the preparation of the brief biographies prefacing the letters in this volume the compiler has availed himself of many sources of information, both early and modern. Among others he has derived help from *' Biography of the Signers to the Declaration of Independence" by William Brown and Charles Peters j '* The Centennial Book of the Signers" by W. Brotherhead ; and from a pamphlet, ** Graves of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence from Pennsylvania," published by the Phila- delphia Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution in 1906. A. H. K. January 2, 1908. reface So MANY eulogies upon the Declaration and its Signers have been pronounced and written by men renowned in oratory or in literature, that it seems impossible to give utterance to one new thought upon so great a subject, but the Declaration itself and the men who made it, its compo- sition and some of the incidents which went to make up its birth, must always interest even the casual reader; and with that thought in mind this preface is ofl'ered. At a Meeting of the Continental Congress, held on Saturday, June 8th, 1776, it was resolved that the resolutions respecting Independence be referred to a Committee of the whole Congress. These resolutions were considered until Tuesday, June nth, 1776, at which time it was resolved that the committee for preparing the Declaration be appointed to consist of five, to wit: Messrs. Thomas Jefferson; John Adams; Benjamin Franklin; Roger Sherman and R. R. Livingston. In pursuance of these resolutions, Mr. Jeff^erson wrote the original draft while lodged in the house of a Mr. Gratz situate at what is now the Southwest corner of Seventh and Market Streets, Philadelphia. Writing to Dr. James Mease on September i6th, 1825, Mr. Jefferson said: "At the time of writing that Instrument (The Declaration) I lodged in the house of a Mr. Gratz, a new brick house three stories high, of which 1 rented the second floor consisting of a parlor and bed-room ready furnished. In that parlor I wrote habitually and in it wrote this paper particularly. So far I state from original drafts in my possession. The proprietor Gratz was a young man. I think he was a brick- layer and that his house was on the South side of Market Street probably between Seventh and Eighth Streets, and if not the only house on that part of the street I am sure there were few others near it." On Monday, July ist, 1776, it was resolved in Congress: "That this Congress will resolve itself into a Committee of the whole, to take into consideration the resolution respecting mdependency and that the Declaration be referred to the said Committee." This Resolution and the further con- sideration of the Declaration took up the Second, Third and Fourth days of July, and on the evening of the Fourth, the Committee arose and Harrison reported the Declaration as having been agreed upon. It was then adopted. Congress on the Nineteenth day of July ordered that the Declara- tion passed on the Fourth be fairly engrossed 6cc., and on the Second day of August the Instrument having been engrossed, was signed. Mr. Jefferson used to relate that the final adoption of the Declaration was hastened by a very trivial cause: There was a livery stable near Independence Hall from which swarms of flies came into the open windows and attacked with much vigor the silk stockinged legs of the distinguished members of Congress. Handkerchief in hand they lashed the flies but the annoyance became at length so great as to render them impatient of dehiy and they made haste to bring the business before them to a conclusion. As to the Signers themselves, a few particulars may not be uninteresting. They came from almost every walk in life; twenty-four were Lawyers, fourteen Farmers, nine Merchants, four Doctors, one Minister of the Gospel, and one Manufacturer; and they were long lived too for three of them lived to be over ninety, ten to be over eighty, and eleven to be over seventy years of age. These men well knew what would follow their execution of such a paper as the Declaration, but they were utterly unmoved by any thought of self. When Carroll signed the Declaration, some friend fearing that the cause of Independence would be defeated, and knowing Carroll's wealth, remarked: " 1 here go a few millions," whereupon Carroll turned and said: "That being the case, I will let King George know where to find me," and he signed "Charles Carroll of CarroUton," a form which he used in future. Stephen Hopkins's hand shook when he signed the Document and John Adams offered to guide the pen for him. "No," said Hopkins. "If my hand trembles mv heart is firm." John Morton gave the casting vote for Pennsylvania, a vote which would either confirm or destroy the unanimity of the Declaration. His vote in favor of it cost him many a friend but never a regret. On his deathbed he sent this message to his friends: "Tell them they will live to see the hour when they shall acknowledge it to have been the most glorious service I ever rendered to m}' Country." .As to this particular collection of the "Signers" letters little need be said. They are all worth reading and few of them are merely signatures without interesting subject matter. Characteristic in many respects ot the men them- selves and of the time, they show in almost every instance something of the writer's personality. Year by year the acquirement of a set of autograph letters such as these becomes more difficult. Some of them are now practically unobtainable, and it must be that m a short time a complete set of the "Signers" will be an autograph collector's "Ultima Thule"; but be that as it may some of their letters will always be procurable, and the possession of even one will recall more than any words the great deed which brought into being our Country. iSehJ ?|ampsi!)ire fogiaf) Partlett, MM Governor of New Hampshire BORN in Amesbury, Massachusetts, No- vember, 1729. Died May 19, 1795. Commenced tbe practice of medicine in Kingnesttn and was deprived, because of his zealous advocacy of Whig principles, ot various appointments he bad received trom the Royal Governor. As a delegate to the Continental Contrress he was the first who voted for the Declaration and the first after the President to sign it. In 1779 he was appoMited Chief Justice ol the Common Pleas and m 1788 became Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Concord, January 17th, 1790. Dear Sir:- I congratulate you on your reappointment as member of Congress for this State, a Certificate is made out and forwarded with this which I hope will come safe to hand, Mr. Smith is the other person appointed. The General Court is now setting here. Are upon a revision ot the laws which will take a considerable time, have nothing material to communicate to you. I have receiv'' your favor of the 9th ult" including a newspaper, wish you to inform me as often as convenient of the transactions of Congress. And am Sir \our friend &:c., &^c., JosiAH Bartlett Hon''" Nicholas Oilman Esqr. Philadelphia. »iUiam OTijipple BORN at Kittery, Maine, 1730. Died November 8, 1785. In eailv lite engaged in sea-taring, which he abandoned m 1759. about wliicli time he engaged in mercantile pursuits at Portsmouth, New Ham|ishire. After the adoption ot the Declaration he became in 1777 a Brigadier Cieneral in the Continental Army, participat- iii!: in the battles at Stillwater and Saratoga. In 1782 he was appointed judge ot the Supreme Court in the State ot New Hamp- shire. Albany 21 Oct 1777 Sir, 1 did myself the pleasure to advise you a few days ago that a Capitulation was Negotiating between Gen'. Gates and General Burgoyne. This business was happily concluded the 16"" Inst, and on ye 17"" the British Army marched out of their Encampment and laid down their Arms. I beg leave most heartily to congratulate you and my Country on this happy event. General Gates has given the Volunteers of New Hampshire an honorable dismiss- ion, the two Regunents who engaged till ye last of Novem- ber still remam here. I am directed by the General to at- tend M' Burgoyne to Boston. Nothing could have been more Seasonable than our Success over Burgoyne. An Army ot 3 or 4000 men from New York are endeavoring to make their way up this River, their design being to reinforce Burgoyne but fortunately for us they are too late and it the weather does not prevent General Gates getting his Heavy Artdlery down I am in great hopes M' Vaughn who commands the Plunderers from New York will soon be in the same situation with M' Burgoyne. Measures are taking if possible to prevent his retreat, which no doubt he will endeavor to effect so soon as he hears of Burgoyne's fate. I expect to start out tomorrow but as I shall escort M' B — to Boston it may be 10 or 12 days before I get home. The great hurry the Army has been in since M' B's capitulation has prevented my getting an e.xact Return of the Military Stores but such as I have been able to obtain I do myself the honor to enclose you. Col. Lang- don who set out ye 17"' Inst, took with him a copy of the Capitulation which no doubt he will send you before this comes to your hand. I have the honor to be with every Sentiment of Respect Sir, Your Most Obed: Serv' \V"> Whipple Hon. Mesheck Weare. (President of New Hampshire) Sirs Enclosed is an order for one bbl. of Powder for the Brig. Friendship which you will please to deliver immedi- ately to Mr. Fitzsimons that he may apply to the Commis- sary for the same as the Brig only waits for the powder in order to sail. You'l please to observe that it is the resolve of the Committee that this Brig take no more than four 4 pounders 4 swivills &: 6 muskets, the remainder to be left in your custody till called for by the Committee. You'l take the Captain or owner's receipt for these warlike stores deliv- ered him. In secret Committee at Richard Henry Lee Baltimore 22nd Feb. Wm. Whipple 1777. Francis Lewis To Mess. Curviance BORN in Ireland about 1 7 14. Died Ne\vbur\poit, Massachusetts, June 2+, 1803. Studied medicine under Dr. Gruet ot Leicester, Massachusetts, and served abl\' as Surgeon ni tiie expedition against Cape Breton m 17+5. September 12, 1776, he was appointed by the House of Repre- sentatives a delegate to represent tor one year the State ot New Hampshire in Congress. He was successively Chief Justice of the Common Pleas and Judge of the Superior Court of New Hampshire and retired in 1780 to a farm he had purchased on the banks of the Merrimack. Know All Men by These Presents, That I, John McCurdy of Londonderry, in the County of Rockingham & State of New Hampshire, Yeoman, For and in Con- sideration of the Sum of One hundred pounds. Lawful money of said State to me in hand paid before the deHvery hereby by Robert McCurdy of the Town, County and State aforesaid. Yeoman, the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge, have given, granted, bargain'd sold and released and b\- these presents do give, grant, bargain, sell, alien, release, conve\' and confirm to him the said Robert McCurdy, his Heirs and Assigns, All my right. Title & Possession I have or may Claim of in & to that tract ot land which I purchased from the heirs of the late Alexan- der Kelso, Lying in that tract which Thomas Packer sold to Jeremiah Smith and Nelson, — reserving my right which 1 purchased from said heirs in that tract which I now dwell on which the late Alexander Kelso dwelt on at the time of his Decease. To have and to hold the said granted premises with the Appurtenances thereof to him, the said Robert McCurdy, his Heirs and Assigns to his and their proper use, benefit and behoof forever, hereby engaging to war- rant and defend the said granted premises against all Claims or Demands of an\' Persons claiming by, from or under me. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this Kighth Day of fune, Ann. Domini 1778. Signed, Sealed and delivered in the presence of us Robert McFarl.'vnd John McCurdy (L.S.) Mathew Thornton Rockingham S.S. rlie 8th Day ot fune, 1778. Then the above named John McCurdy personall} appearing ac- knowledged the above written Instrument to be his vokm- tary Act and Deed, before me, Mathew Thornton Justice Peace. Jlagsfacijusietts; Jofjn J^ancocfe BORN in Ouincv, Mass., January 12, 1737, died there October 8tli, 1793. Graduated at Harvard College in 1754 and was employed in the Counting House of an uncle, John Hancock, who, dying in 1764, left him a large fortune. He was chosen a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1766, and it was the seizure of his vessel "The Liberty" in 1768 b\' Custom House officers which occasioned the riot m that year. Afterwards he became a member of the Provincial Congress at Concord and in 1774 its President. He became President of the Continental Con- gress m 1775 and remained President dur- mg 1776. The Declaration of Independence was accompanied in its first publication by the signature of Mr. Hancock alone. In 1777 he returned to Massachusetts, was chosen first Governor in 1780, to which office he was annually re-elected until his death. Philadelphia, June lo. 1775. Sir: Bv order of the congress I transmit you the inclosed resolutions passed bv the congress this morning. The necessirv" of the present emergencv requires a speedy com- pliance with the first respecting the supply of powder to the armv, and I need not inform vou that the nature ot the service requires it to be done with as much secrecv as possible. If there are anv supplies of powder to be pur- chased in vour colonv vou will readily see the propriet\- of encasing it for the use of the continental armv, and in- forming the general of the armv thereof, as well as Sir ^ our most obed' humble servant John Hancock. President. Samuel ^bams BORN in Boston, September 27, 1722. Died October 2, 1803. Was chosen in 1765 one of the three representatives in the General Court of the Town ot Boston, and at the time of the "Boston Massacre" in March, 1770, took a most prominent part in the stirring events ot that time. In June, 1774, at a meeting of the general court, it was proposed that a Continental Congress assemble in Philadelphia, and he was chosen one of the five delegates. He was prominent by his energ\' and ability not only in this Congress but in the formation of the State Constitution of Massachusetts. He was the author ot many pamphlets and state papers and a clear and torcible speaker. Boston, May 1766. Dear Sir:- 1 was very much disappointed in not receiving a letter from you by the last Post. I assure you I am very soUici- tous about your happiness & shall always rejoice to hear that you succeed in every purpose that has a tendency to promote it. You are seeking it in the Marriage State. Allow me to tell you that you will entirely miss of it there, or find it in its greatest Perfection in this Life. There is indeed noth- ing that will secure happiness to us in any state but virtue, or to speak in the too much exploded language Christianity. By this we are taught to believe upon solid ground, that every circumstance ot our Life, tho perhaps not agreeable to our own plan, is wisely ordered for our Good. — To the Christian what are called Misfortunes are Blessings in Dis- guise, but the wicked in every enjoyment feels a sting, even his Table and his friends around it are a Snare to him. We may search for happiness as for an hidden treasure, &: never find it. Gold, even the pure gold saith it is not with me. The favor of the great, tho I have not yet experienced It, 1 believe is deceitful, and the beauty of the fair, however captivating will soon fade. We know to what Solomon likens the Laughter &: Mirth of gay Fools — But "Religion only yields substantial Joy which Fortune cannot marr, nor chance destroy." Tell your charmer, tho perhaps she knows it already, that a female Pen wrote these lines. The polite and friendly terms in which she mentions me 6c m\' Betsy are very oblig- ing, antl pray make our sniirrt- complements to her, or it that seem a little |Kiradoxical assure her ot our Friendship for her. I know she is the center of your affections. I want much to be acquainted with her. I wish her happi- ness with the same Sincerity that I do yours & my own. — Adieu S.AM^ Adams. I wish you w** let me know who the Person from Boston was & will keep it an impenetrable Secret if you desire it. To Mr. Wii.i-iAM Chkcklev at Newport. f oijn ^bamsi BORN Braintree, Massachusetts, Oc- tober 19, 1755. Died July 4, 1826. Graduated from Harvard, 1755, and took charge of the Grammar School at Worcester for a short time. He subsequently removed to Boston and was one of the five delegates sent to the Continental Congress in 1774. He was one of the warmest supporters of the Declaration in the debate. In 1777 he was appomted Commissioner to France and was appointed subsequently Commissioner to treat with Great Britain for peace and commerce. In 1782 he negotiated a loan of $2,000,000 with the Dutch, also a treaty of commerce. After serving as Minister to the Court of St. James he became, upon the election of Washincton, Vice President, and was after Washington's retirement chosen President bv a small majority. He served in 1820 as a delegate to the Convention called to revise the Constitution of Massachusetts. QuiNCY near Boston, Sept \2, 1796. Mr. Stockdale I embrace with pleasure the opportunity by my sons of presenting you many Thanks for your kind Letter and obliging Present of an elegent Sett of your new Edition of The History of Republicks. I know not whether Experience of the Evils physical moral and political of Simple Government, will recom- mend to the public my poor Speculations in favour of moral forms, so at to give you a Profit by the Sale of the Book: but I know the Devil ought to have Mankind if they dont soon put a stop to the Progress of Cleons &: Clodms's Rienzis, and Wat Tylers. I have written since I came to America Discourses on Davild. You may make a fourth Volume of them if you will under the Same Title with the other three. With compliments to your family, I am, your friend and servant John Adams Mr. Stockdalk Bookseller, Piccadilly I/ondon. BORN Boston, March 1 1, 17JI. Died May II, 18 14. Graduated from Har- vard and studied theology, acting in 1755 Chaplain of the troops on the Northern Frontier. He afterwards studied law and having acted in 1768 as delegate from Taun- ton to the Convention called in Boston, was chosen in 1774 representative from Taunton to the General Assembly in Boston and delegate to the Continental Congress. He served as representative in 1776, 1777 and 1778. In 1780 he was Attorney General and in 1790 Judge of Supreme Court. He re- signed that office in 1 804 on account ot failing health. Taunton, Septr. 22, 1769. Dear Sir I have been in great anxiety for you ever since I left you. The appearance of a settled fit of sickness & a fault- ering constitution have filled me with very disagreeable apprehensions. 1 rely upon it therefore you will by the first opportunity let me hear of your Welfare, That if your Disorder was as slight as your Friend hoped it was I may enjoy the Satisfaction of knowing it, or whatever your situation may be, that I may exercise that Sympathy which closely attends you in all your Circumstances. Mr. Mc- Whorter the Bearer hereof keeps at Brackett and will return this week With complements to your Dear Spouse &: all Friends, I am your humble servant, R. T. Paine To John Adams, Esq. Living in Cole Lane Boston. Cltiribge #crrp BORN in Marblehead, Massachusetts, July 17, 1744. Died in Washington November 13, 1814. Engaged in mercantile pursuits and in 1772 was elected represen- tative to the General Legislature ot his State. In January, 1777, he was elected delegate to the Continental Congress and was Chairman ot" the Committee of the Treasury. In 1798 and in 1 80 1 he ran unsuccessfully for Gov- ernor of Massachusetts, having been nomi- nated by the Democratic party. In 1810 he was elected to the office and was re- elected in 181 1, and in 1 81 2 was elected Vice President of the United States. C.A-M3RIOGE. Zfth Mav. iSci. De.vr Sir: — Enclosed is a letter from Capt. Xath' Fellovres. a fcrrr. -^nublican iSc one of the wealthiest merchants of Morton. ng the copartner also of Mr. Brown, who received an appointment under the present sovemment. Cap:. Fel- ■ es I am acquamted vrith but am a stranger to the gentJe- rr.en mentioned in his letter; The former of them, indeed, Mr. Gushing, has called on m.e. ic stated, that in a confer- ence %vith vourself. he had received the prom.ise of vour interest for his appointm.ent to the consulate of the Havar.- nah. when vacant, that his present circum.stances render it melegible on his part, and that Mr. X. Fellowes friend is well qualined as a .merchant to nil the office. From, the facts stated i: v.i-h others as ".'our station will enable ".•ou to attain, ^■ou vail be enabled I presum.e. in case of a va- cancy" ic a com.petition tor the office, to iudge of the relative merits i: pretensions of the several applicants. I have the honor to rem.am.. Dear iir vnzh the highest esteem, and respect ;/our inend i: ".er." hum;ble ser^'ant E. GiRRY Honorable Mr. M.i.Disov Secretarv of State of the L. S. 3^f)obe 3g(anb BORN in Scituate, Rhode Island, March 7, 1707. Died in Providence, [uly 13, 1785. Having served succes- sively as member of the General Assembly and Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, was in 1 755 elected Governor of the State, which position he filled with the exception of four years until 1768. He represented the State in the Continental Congress in [774, 1775 and 1776, and was for many years a Cliancellor of Brown University. Mr. Hopkins married the lady to whom the fol- lowing letter is aildressed. Newport, Sept. 2, 1754- My Dear While I am here employed in the drugery of following vice and fraud through the Unking places of craft and design, you are peacefully pursuing the paths of peace and contemplating the laws and designs of Heaven; go on ever m those happy courses and enjoy that happyness that is attendent thereon. \ our prayers will endeavour to pre- serve me from the snares incident to the station I am placed m. Mine shall attend you in your journey which I hope may be very agreeable as your returne will be to him who with truth subscribes himself Now and ever yours Stephen Hopkins. Mrs. Anne Smmh Smithtield. OTiUiam CUerp BORN in Newport, Rhode Island, De- cember 22, 1727. Died there February 15, 1820. Graduated from Harvard College in 1747 he engaged in mercantile pursuits in his native place until 1770, when he began the practice of law in Newport. In May, 1776, he took his seat in Congress of that year as one of the delegates from Rhode Island and remained in Congress with the exception of two years (1780-82) until 1786. He was in 1790 appointed Collector of New- port and tilled that office until the time of his death. Newport, June 21st, 1800. Dear Sir 1 received \"our letters of the i6th of this month on the 19th P.M., and my son the Depy. Coll. soon saw Col. Crary's son who is in company with his father, and pro- duced the orders it inclosed, and requested payment of them. He replied that his father had sent a due bill to Genl. Knox which expressed the exact sum due, and that it was expected that he would return the due bill with the orders he might draw; — but that he would see me the next morning at the Custom house at nine o'clock. I attended in season, but he did not appear nor has his father or he been there or at my house. The afternoon of this day I went in quest of them and saw the Col. in the evening, who told me as his son had told mine, adding that this mode of a due bill was necessary to keep his accounts with the Public regulars, that it would not do for him to pay the orders and leave the due bill standing out against him, and that he supposed by this time the due bill was sent to \ou. When that bill is sent to you I presume Genl. Knox will make the contents of it payable to your order. I should have answered your letter by the returning post, had not young Crarv disappointed me. I shall with pleasure serve vou on this or any other occasion; for I am with esteem Sir your obed. servant Wm. Ellery. Benjamin Lincoln, Esq. Collector for the District of Boston (5c Charlestown State of Massachusetts. Connecticut looser ^fjerman BORN 111 Newtown, Massachusetts, April 19, 1721. Died in New Haven, Con- necticut, fulv 23, 1793. Was a shoemaker in early hte but was in 1 745 appointed sur- veyor ol lands for New Milford. He was successively Judge ot Common Pleas and Assistant of the Upper House in the Legis- lature. He was appointed to Congress in 1774 and was elected to the Senate in 1791. He was Ma\or ot" New Haven from 1784 until the time of his death. He was a promi- nent member of the Continental Congress, and was for several years Treasurer of Yale College. His assistance in codifying the laws of Connecticut was most important and valuable. Philadelphia, Jan. 19, 1776. Sirs The enclosed paper contains several resolutions ot the Congress and an Act of the Assembly of Connecticut. Col. Dyer informs me that he sent copies of the resolves of Congress immediately after they were passed to you and to the Magistrates in the County of Northumberland. We have had an account of an attack on our people by some of the Pennsylvanians who were repulsed with the loss of two men killed, but have heard nothing from the Connecticut people relative to that action or whether they sustained any loss. There is a report here that your people have given some disturbance to the Settlers under Pennsyl- vania. I should be glad of a particular account from you of the situation of affairs relative to that unhapp}' con- troversy which tends to weaken the union of the Colonies at the present alarmmg crisis. I hope you will do all in your power to prevent any disturbances being given to the Settlers under Pennsylvania by our people and that the resolutions of the Congress be duly observed. You will observe that the Assembly of Connecticut have shortened the western limit of Westmoreland. I would advise that no jurisdiction be exercised over the Settlers under Penn- sylvania within the limits of P. Town if any be contrary to their mind. Col. Dyer and Mr. Dean have left Congress the time the\- were appointeil tor being expired, and Oliver Wolcot and Samuel Huntington Esqrs. are now attending in their stead. You will observe that the Congress have recommended that all the effects taken and detained from an\- persons on the controverted land be restored, it will be proper to apph' to the Magistrate who took cognizance of that matter for or restitution to the Sheriff who had the goods in custody, and if they are not restored that the case be represented to the Congress and if anything hath been taken from the people of Pennsylvania bv the Connecticut people that the same be restored. 1 am Sir, with due regards Your humble servant Roger Sherman To Zebulum Butler, Esq. at Wyoming. Samuel ?|untington BORN Windham, Connecticut, |ul\ 3, 1732. Died Norwich January 5, 1796. He held prior tcj 1775 the office of King's Attorney and Associate justice of" the Su- perior Court of Connecticut, and was elected to the Continental Congress in January, 1776. He became President of Congress in September, 1779, and remained in office until July, 1780. He returned to Congress from May to June, 1783, and the following year was appointed Chief Justice of the Superior Court of Connecticut. Having been elected Lieutenant Governor in 1785, he succeeded Roger Griswold as Governor in 1786 and held that position annually until his death. Norwich, 20tli April, 1776. Sir Enclosed you have my account in the Case of Mr. Cogswell vs Town of Plainfield, which I forgot to give you when at Norwich. Am Sir with Esteem your humble servant Samuel Huntington. Eor Major Jediah Elderkin, Esq., Windham per Capt. Trumbull. Norwich, November 25, 1788. Sir In justice to Lieut. John Pratt, the officer employed on the Recruiting Service m this State tor sometime past, I have thought proper to acquaint you that his conduct as a faithful, vigilent & active officer while on that service so far as hath come within my knowledge i?c observation, merits entire approbation, With Sentiments of Esteem & respect I am. Sir Your humble servant S. Huntington Gen'l. Harmar WiUiam Wmiam^ BORN in lA-banoii, Connecticut, April S. 1 7;) I. Died there August z, 1811. Was graduated from Harvard College in 1 751 and, being attached to the Staff of Colonel Ephraitii Williams, made a cam- paign in 1755. He liecame a prominent member of the Council ot Safety and a rep- resentative to Congress in October, 1 775. For many years he served in the State Legis- lature, fillinir a lartje number ot offices of trust, and was also a member of the Con- vention of his State which adopted the Federal Constitution. SiK This certifies That We, the subscribing Civil Authority and select men of the Town of Lebanon, have carefully inspected the rate .... or Tax Bills in the hands ot Capt. Elijha Hutchinson, containing several viz seven Ta.xes due and payable from the Inhabitants of this Town to the Treasurer .... of this State on their general list for the year 1782, of which B. Hutchinson is Collector & have considered the circumstances of the persons on whom they are severally assessed &: have abated and do hereby abate on & in part of said several taxes, viz On the M.ircli 1st taxes to the amount of _^' 15-10- 6\4 On the March 2nd taxes to the amount of ^^ 31- i- i On the .April 22nJ taxes to the amount of y^i86- g— 27^4 On the Aug. 2nd taxes to the amount of ^, 31- 1- I On the Dec. 6th taxes to the amount of _^" 93- 4- 7^-3 On the Jan'y. 7th taxes to the amount of _y"lo8-l5— 2 On the March 8th taxes to the amount of ^124- 5- 8^2 Being two twentieth parts ot each ot said taxes &: have carefully applied the same to the relief of the most indigent &: such as stand in the greatest need of abatement & to the benefit ot such only as we judge unable to pay said taxes & parts of taxes, which we have abated to them respectively as the Law directs. And you will please to receive & allow the same in tavor ot said collector, in settlement with liim on said taxes. ^'oiir most obedient humble Servants Wm. Williams, Assessor 1a I! HZ, Clark Justice of Peace Lebanon 25th November 1785. John Lawrhnce Esq., Ireas'r. of the State of Connecticut ikc. (Plitjer OTolcott BORN Connecticut November 26, 1722. Died December i, 1797. Graduated at Yale and received a Captain's commis- sion from the Governor of New York. Became Sheriff of Litchfield County in 1 75 1 and in 1774 a member ol the State Council. He tilled the position ol [udge ot Probate Court, was one ot the Commissioners ot the Indian affairs, and in 1776 commanded frontier Connecticut Regiments organized to assist tile Arnn of New York, and in that \ear took his seat in Cono;ress. Serving as Lieutenant Governor of the State from 1 785 to 1796, he was elected Governor in the latter year and filled that position until his death. Litchfield 14' Aug 1776 Sir/ I have been Favoured witli Two Letters from you since iny return Home, and which I should have sooner acknowledged had I been Situated in the usual Road ot Conveyance .... I hope your disagreeable apprehen- sions respecting what may be the effects of our Lreaty with France will be removed when you shall consider the ad- vantages which have already resulted from them, and shall hereafter find that National Benefit and Security which I flatter myself will be derived from this convention. For altho I have no great Dependance upon the Justice of any Nation, (Abstractly considered) yet such is our coincidence ot Interests and so few are our obligations that 1 appre- hend We have but little to fear from this alliance. French Honour I believe is equal to that of any other nation. "Fheir Interest in the Independency and in cultivating peace with this country is clear in my View — And I hope that Nation considers the Subject in the same Point of Light. We shall feel some Impatience till We hear the Result ot the Island b^xpedition — Our Troops make good their landing there last Monday — the weather since I believe has been pretty unfavourable for the Interprize — altho I hope there is but little Danger but it will succeed — The Expedition is I think a very good one, well planned — and not like that before projected, which if it had been success- ful no advantage would have accrued from it. . . . As to News except of the Domestick kind, I shall not atrem]it to give you any as your Intelligence must be earlier and more perfect than any I can communicate. I suppose you have before now seen the motion of the D. of Rich- mond to address his B. Majesty on the State of the Nation — This as I suppose it is a true so is gives a fuller repre- sentation of the affairs ot that Nation than any I had before seen. The Ridiculous King of G. B. and his ridiculous Ministers must (it capable of it) have most exquisite sensa- tions by this Time. — But it matters not or to us what they either feel or think, let them continue the curses to that Nation who are willing to bear them. . . . Our Superior Court have just ended there Sessions here, they have not ordered anybody to be hanged, altho probably enough sundry may have deserved it. You will I believe receive a Letter from Mrs. Adams by which you will be informed of the Wellfare of your Family. You will please Sir to ta\our me with every material Intelligence, and will also present my Compliments to Mrs Sherman and Mr. Hosmour — I am with respect Sir Your most obedient humble Servant Ol.IVKR WOI.COTT Andrkw Adams Esqr. Hartfokd, 14th Mav, 1 781. Sir:— I am at this place attending our Legislature. The last week the election of the Governor and Council of the State was consummated. The appointments are the same as thev were the last \ear except that two gentlemen are newly chosen to supply that number ot vacancies in Council. The election of members for Congress is the same as it was the last year e.xcept that Mr. B. Huntington is chosen in the room of the late Mr. Hopmore. We ha\e no late news except what has been brought In the French Frigate in whicii the Admiral came who is to take the command of the French Fleet at Newport. The intelligence brought b\- this ship \ou will receive. If the Czarina has recalled iicr Ambassador from the British Court, as is said, and shall the Dutch heartily enter into the War against G. Britain, we may hope for some further important events in our favour. The old continental money is very reluctantly rec'd in the State. I believe that our Assembly will limit the duration of its circulation. I'ublick credit here as in ever)' other state is in a ver\- low condition. How we shall be able to comph' with the extensive demands made upon this State, I cannot sa\'. I hope that every effort will be made to support every necessary publick measure. Had we believed as we ought to have done that the supplies must be furnished by our own exertion, the requisitions would perhaps ha\C been more seasonably made and more proper regulations adopted. People here are much chagrined at the positive orders given Cap't Harding to come into the Port of Philadelphia, which seems to ha\e occasioned the loss ot that Frieate and her valuable and necessary cargo. It seems that we are yet to learn that we never did nor never I believe shall keep one secret. I perceived before that I left Philadelphia that it was well known in the City that the Confederacy was to return into that Port, the time when she was expected, and her loading. It is very strange that such positive order should be given and it ought to be more strange that after they were given that they should be published. But it is only a single instance of our want of common discretion. I have taken the liberty Sir to enclose a Letter to Mr. Marshall which I beg your favour to send to him. I am Sir with real regards Your most obed. Servant Oliver Wolcott For Artemas Ward. Member of Congress Philadelphia. J?etu gorfe Wilimn Jflopb BOR.N in Suffolk County, New York, September 17, 1774. Died in Western August 4, 1 821. Early in the controversy between Great Britain and the Colonies he became conspicuous tor the energy with which he championed the pt)pular cause. In consequence ot this he was in early Revolutionary times appointed a delegate to the first Continental Congress and in 1775 was again appointed delegate, which posi- tion he filled tor eight \ears. He became Senator tor New '^'ork in 1774, and was presidential elector in 1 801, in which year he was chosen a member ot the Convention to revise the Constitution in the State of New York. MiDDLETOVVN, October 29th, 1780. Sir: The note which you gave to Daniel Downs, dated ^rd of June, 1775, soon came into my hands which I sup- pose you was acquainted with. I imagine it would be more agreeable to you to pay the money than to let the interest run upon vou as it now does, and as I am in want of the money, I have given Mr. John Ingraham an order to re- ceive it for me. The whole amount to the 3rd of November next is 265 Pounds, York money, and his receipt on the back of the order shall be your discharge for whatever sum he may so receive. Your compliance in paying the above mentioned order will oblige Sir, your humble servant W. Floyd To Mr. I AMES Downs. Southhold. BORN in Llaiidoff, Glamorganshire, Wales, March, lyij- Died in New York December 30, 1803. He came to New York when 22 years of age and was engaged in commercial pursuits until the war broke out in 1775. Elected to the Continental Congress, he took his seat in that body in May, 1775, as a delegate from New York, and remained a member ot Congress until 1779 with a ver\- short interval of a tew months. Gentlem. I had the honor to write you the 31st Ult. & 7th In- stant, of which you have Copys herewith, as also all the necessary accounts relative to the Montgomery Prizes, by those accounts you'l find a Ballance resting in my hands of X'4978,4,6 due the Captors ^^ due to the State of New York £,"4951,3,9 Total £^^9929, 8,3. The Registers Bill of Costs on the Libells agt. the Minerva &: Cargo, 1 have not been able to obtaine, as the Register is out of Town, 1 would advise the retaining abt. £,'30 out of the Captors moiety towards discharging that cost, especially as I have been informed b\- the Marshall that the Claimants intend to sue my Bond given for 4000 doll'rs to prosecute the appeal, as they allege damages thev have sustained by detention of the Vessells and expenses ot Witnesses. When I left Phila. Mr. Ph. Livingston promised me he would endeavor to procure an application from Congress to the Governor of Virginia permitting salt to be purchased there for the State of New York, upon my receiving the application 1 shall send dosvn my son to Virginia for the purpose. . . . last night a small Vessell arrived here with 100 bus. salt from Hampton Virginia which was purchased at North Carolina by a Trader of this Town &: sent by land to Hampton. Five men of War besides Tenders being at the Capes the navigation into this Bay is at present entirely blocked up. and by the last advice from Jersey we are informed that the British Troops were at Somerset Court House on their march to Delaware, so that it salt can be procured in these parts the transportation must be hazard- ous. 1 have the honor to be Gentlem. ^Our Obed' Iliiml^le. Servt. Fr.1i. Lkwis Baltimore zoth June 1777. (over) p. S. since writing the foregoing I have been furnished with the Admiralty Court's Costs on the Libell agt. the Brig. Minerva 57,19,5 also for 2 Tons Pig Iron taken by Capt. Rogers for Ballast omit'd, 33,0,0 — ,{,90,19,5 To be dected. from the Nett pCeeds exclusive of the £31 for 31 Galls, of Rum, for the pavinent of the Rum shall waite your orders. The Honble. Council of Safety for the State of New York. ^ijilip l^ibinsston BORN in Albany, New York, fanuary 15, 1716. Died York, Pennsylvania, |unc 12, 1778. Graduated at Yale College in 1757 lie was engaged in commerce in New York City. Appointed to the Colonial House of Assembly in 1758 he continued to serve as a member of that body until 1769. He served as a member of the first and second Continental Congress, later in the New York Provincial Congress, in the State AssembU' and in the Senate. He died when serving as a delegate from New York to the Continental Congress then sitting in York. Nhw York, the 5th May, i //5- Nh 1)k Katev \'oii have no doul)! been very uneasy at the melancholy news from Boston, which has occasioned the greatest con- tusion and anxiety here, the Town is however now pretty quiet, how long that will continue God only knows. We are in tlie greatest state of uncertainty whether any Troops are coming here from England or not, if they do I am very tearful it will occasion disturbances ot a very serious nature. People here are determined not to submit to the op- pressive Acts ot Parliament and to give New England all the assistance they can. 1 shall leave this place for Phila- delphia ne.xt Monday to attend the continental Congress, where it is very probable steps will be taken trom the neces- sity ot the times, tiiat every good man would wish could be avoided. But in such times the strictest ETnion of Councils is necessary and I believe and doubt not but the Congress will unite like one man in every measure necessary for the common safety. The Boston Delegates came to tow-n this afternoon, the account of that battle is much as we heard it; the King's Troops began first, they lost 112 men and 167 wounded, the Provincials lost 37 men. Boston is surrounded b\' about 1^1,000. nun who are in high spirits and think themsehcs an (nermatch tor all the troops that General Ciage has thire and expects to have. God grant them success. Send Stejihen liown that he may be at school. P^liza- beth Town is sate eiKJUgh. I see you have let the Island, ^'oii nnist agree with the tenants to pay taxes, not to plant more than .50 acres of corn in one year nor nearer together than comiiion, and not two years following m one place. To keep at least ^o acres in mowing ground. To repair the building at their own expense. To cut no trees on or near the Bank of the River. Xo plant a sufficient quantity of willows at the north part of the Island. Not to sow more than 5 acres of hemp. Nor to take an\' dung off the Island but all that is made to be made use ot on the same to the best advantage. I remain, Dr Katey Your affectionate father, Phil. Livingston I sent last week to the care of Wm. Dincii Gen. Broceh 6 trunks which you will please send for and keep at your house. I could wish that tew people knew that they be- longed to me. P. L. Mkss. Bavnton, Wharton & Morgan Merchants at Philadelphia, New "^'ork the 28th Nov. 1767. Messrs. Baynton, Wharton &: Morgan Gent. I received vours dated 17th inst. advising me of the state of your affairs. You may be tuUy assured that the first accounts of that affair gave me great concern, not on m\' own account hut for \ou and your families any man of the least humanity cannot help feeling on such occasions. It gives me real pleasure to find you are still of opinion that after paying all your debts, something handsome will be left .Sc heartily &: sincerely wish it may prove so. ^'ou are most undoubtedly mistaken in telling Mr. Hicks that you had no concern with Mr. Ver Plank. The Kettles I bought of him for your account & on your credit entirely & I did not mean to charge you any commission on the same as I wrote to you, but you insisted on it &: then I did charge it, but to putt that matter out of all dispute & to evince in the clearest manner how is was understood between Mr. Verplank and me I send you at foot a copy of Mr. Verplanks original bill parcells wherein he charges you iS: I have \our letter directing me to bu\' of him so that 1 was only an Agent for you &: as such I had an undoubted right to charge a commission for my trouble witliout making m\self at all liable tor the debt which I would however not have charged had \ou not insisted on it. A commission ot zk per cent, would hardh' tempt me to buy goods pa\'- able at a distant period ^ to insure the debt. I have further to observe to \(H1 that Mr. Verplank never opened his lips to me about this affair since the purchase was made so that the steps he has taken to arrest you are entirely without my knowledge, privity or procurement and I am apt to think he did not look in his daybook at his original entry when he wrote to Mr. Hicks or lie must there have seen that the goods were sold at g months credit, as you will see by copy of the bill parcells dated 8 April so that the time of payment is not untill the 8 January next. 1 have not been very well for some days but hope to see Mr. Verplank before I seal this letter it so you shall be informed at foot what he says if not, by the next post. 30th November, since the above was wrote I have spoke to Mr. Verplank he says that he bought the kettles of you by me as your agent, that he made the entry so in his book and never had the least thought that I was any way liable to him. He well remembers that 1 showed him your letter directing me to buy the kettles of him &: he debited you accordingly. Mr. Verplank you must be sence- able can have no desire to shift the debt from \ou to me at this juncture. I do not tiiink he will be prevailed on to give time &: even was 1 liable and Mr. Verplank had no right to sue, it lie insisted on my paying the money I woulil think It my dut\' to insist on the same from you, there can be no reason assigned \\ by 1 should pay the money out ot my pockett not having had an\' \iew in the whole transaction but to serve your interest. 1 am Gentlemen Your most obedient servant Phil, Livingston Nkw '^'okk S'tli April 176 I- Mess. Bayton &: Wharton by Phili, Livingston, I'.sc]. z Casks Raw Brass Indian Ktttles viz. !J°-'+ ■■■+-^^^|87ol.. Bf.A,. /:,iq.i2.6 No. 25 4.15: \ ' A parcL'll of Wire tor Ditto. . W 542 L. B i . .£" 27. 2.0 £146.14.6 Hetuig iHorri^ BORN at Moiiisania,\\ cstcliester Count) , New York, in 1726. Died January 22, 1798. Graduated at Yale College 1746 and, interesting iiimself largely in farm- ing and extensive agricultural pursuits, he was chosen a member of Congress in 1775. Me was appointed a member ot the Com- mittee to devise means for supplying the Colonies with the necessaries of war. He was afterwards sent west to detach the Indians from the British and in 1776 returned and resumed his seat in Congress. Afterwards he rendered distingmshed service in his State Legislature. Sir Yesterday I received yours hut my Lord Louder not being as yet come to this place cant certainly tell you the time when I shall be able to pay the money but he is every da\' expected and then I shall advise you, and I cannot say but it will be as convenient to me to pay you in bills as cash which you know when his Lordship arrives here. Pray make m) ci3- Iiiliciitcd liom his uncle. William Coleman, who had directed his education, a considerable tortune. Was a member ot' the Council of Saietv' and in [ulv, 1775, became Continental Treasurer. On I ulv 20. 177'^. was appointed with Janus W ilson and others to succeed those members ot the Pennsylvania Delej^atioii who had refused their assent to the Decla- ration and abandoned th«r seats m Congress. Re-elected m 1 777 he contmued an active member of that bod\- until Ma\- ig, 1777. when he was forced to ask leave of absence on account of ill lualth. He was asjain elected in 1 780 and served until 1 782. He was also a member ot the first House ol Representatives, bemg elected b) a large maiority. Sir Captain Pigman's Representation respecting the Militia in Monongalia County was sent to us but on looking into it found it ought to have been addressed to you, and there- fore send it to vou. \our most obedient Servants Geo. Clymer Samp. Mathews. Gen. Hand. Jamesi ^mitf) BORN in Ireland, ijiq. Died York. Pennsylvania, July n, 1806. Came to America when 12 years old with his father. Attended the College of Phila- delphia, where be became slciltul in survey- ing. Studied law and removed to York, where he resided during the rest ot his lite. In the Provincial Assembly June 23, 1776, became a member of the Committee having charge of the Resolution declaring the Independence of this Province from Great Britain, and [uly 20, 1 776, was elected by the Provincial Assembly a delegate to the Continental Congress in the place of one who had voted against the Declaration. He died in his ninety-third year. York. 20th April, 1802. Dear Sir Immediately after the receipt of your letter of the 30th ulto. I made every enquiry in ni\ power, touching the proceedings of Mr. Wheelen's Hewers of Wood (for it seems the race of the Gibeonites are yet in existence) & found by every account, they were going on with the most destructive industry. You mention in your letter "that an agent should be employed to ascertain precisely, whether the land on which ye Trespass has been committed falls withm our claim, and if it does to what extent the injury has been done" to ascertain the facts with precision, no person seemed so proper, as the Commissioned Surveyor of the District with the assistance of some of the most respectable neighbors. As soon as I could possibly procure the attendance of Mr. John Eichelberger Surveyor of the district in which the land lies I furnished him with the Original Draught and written instructiond to direct him how to proceed with letters to some of the most intelligent neighbors to shew the lines and estimate the damage done to the Land, which business he has compleated, and by the enclosed Draught you will perceive to what extent they have proceeded and are still going on with unabated industry. James Liggits procedure surprises me much, as I all- ways esteemed him as a man of integrity, no man in York Count\- knew our lines &: Title better than James Liggit. As to Mr. Wheelen being a stranger to our claim & title what shall I think ? believing him to be a man of probity & honour, he must have forgot that, before his people entered on our land he was shewed our line & was informed of our title & warned not to cut any wood within our lines. I remain Dear Sir Your most obedient Servant James Smith Hon. Jasper Yeats Lancaster. George tlTaplor BORN in Ireland, 1 716. Died Feb- ruary 23, 1 78 1, in Eastern Penn- sylvania. Educated in the profession of medicine he gave it up and came to America, taking a position as filler in the iron works at Durham, below Easton, Pennsylvania. He became clerk for the owner of the works and aftei'wards married his widow and became manager of the works. He became a member of the Pennsylvania Assembl} in 1764 and continued a member until 1770. On November 4, 1775. he prepared and presented to the Assembly a dratt of instructions to the delegates to the Conti- nental Congress, directing them to vote the dissolution of the allegiance of the Province to Great Britain. On July 20, 1776, he was elected a delegate to the Continental Con- gress. On March 17, 1777, he retired from Congress and never again engaged in public service. Easton 4.th Decem'br 1780 Dear sir/ I understand the Furnace is out of Blast some time ago & perhaps you could spare a team or two to send me a little Hay my Horse &: Cow have not a mouthful to eat & what is worse I have not a shilling to buy any. if you have any flat irons please to send me two or three pair. I wish you would take a ride up and settle the remaining part of the Hessians acco't I would come down but am not able to Ride. I should be glad to talk with you about several things that cannot be contained in a Letter. I am Sir ^'r. most Huble. Servt. Geo. Taylor. RiCHi). Backhouse Esqr. fames OTiton BORN St. Andrews, Scotland, 1742. Died Edenton, North Carolina, Au- <^ust 28, 1798. Came to Philadelphia in 1766 and obtained the position of tutor in the Latin department of Philadelphia College and Academy. He studied law in the office of John Dickinson and havinj; been admitted to the bar became eminent in the practice ot his profession. He served as member of the second Continental Congress, 1775, and was re-elected in 1776 and 1777. He was in 1787 a delegate from Penns\lvania to the Convention which assembled at Philadelphia for the purpose of framing the Constitution. He argued strongly in favor of its ratifica- tion and delivered the oration at the proces- sion lormcd to celebrate its adoption. In 1789 he was appointed one of the first Judges of the Supreme Court of the United States, became Professor of Law in the College of Philadeljihia in 1 792, and retained these offices until his death. Dear Sir Some business, which I lia\e to transact here, pre- vents my attendance at Lancaster. You will oblige me by giving some attention to the tew actions in which I am concerned in that County. An ejectment has long been depending in Cumberland County between the Lessee of the Reverend Mr. Andrews and Mrs. Fleming. I think a Distringas has been ordered for the next Court of Nisi Prius at Carlisle. If it has not, I must entreat of you to take the necessary steps at Lancaster to send the Distringas to the Sheriff of Cumberland County, and to give a notice of Treat to Mr Stevenson the attorney for the Defendant. I shall be at Carlisle. 1 wish you a pleasant and profitable C^ircuit, and am, with much Regard Dear Sir Sincerely yours JAMES Wilson Phiiada yth May, 1780. JASl'KR ^'kATF.S Es(|, Lancaster. #eorge ^o^s! BORN New Castle, Delaware, 1 730. Died Lancaster, Pennsylvania, July, 1779. Admitted to the Bar of Philadelphia, at the age of eighteen he removed to Lancaster, wliere he obtained a fine practice. Became a member of the Continental Congress September 5, 1 774, and continued until 1 777 a member of that bod}'. Lancaster County ottered him 150 Pounds of the County stock s a recompense for the time he had given to public business but he declined it. In 1779 he was appointed fudge of Admiralty for the State of Penns\lvania but died very shortly after. a No. 904. Petition from Lancaster, 1755. May it please your Honour The enclosed letter from Mr. Allison with the annexed copy we have just now received by express, by which your Honour will be able to judge of the melancholy & distressed situation of the inhabitants of this & the other Frontier Countys ot this Province There are not one half of the people of this County who have arms and there is not amunition by any means sufficient for those that have. We beg your Honour's assistance in furnishing those that are willing to do their utmost tor the defence of their family's & bleeding Country in such manner as time and oppor- tunity will admit. And as we are thus destitute of all manner of warlike stores and in a great degree separate and disunited by means of our distant abodes and tor want of some plan of operation amongst us; tho. many are well disposed, unless some supplies are speedily sent to oppose the progress ot the enemy we in Lancaster as well as many more must shortly evacuate our places of abode. We are with tlie utmost respect \ our Honour's most obedient &■ humble servants Lancaster 12 November 1755 6 o'clock P.M. P. S. Robert Thompson You have also en- John N. Cathkr, Justice closed a copy of an affi- George Ross da\it the original where- Joseph Shippen Junior of was sent h\' John Harris to Mr. Franklin. To the Honble. Robert Hunter Morris Esq. Governor of the Province of Pennsylvania. To Captain 'Fhomas Rodney Fsquire in Dover. ©elatoare Caesiar I^obnep BdRN in Dover, Delaware, about 1730. Died 1783. Little is known of his early life. In 1762 he was a member of the As- sembly which met in New Castle, havini; been sent there by his native County. In 1774 acting as Speaker he called a meetin<; of the Legislature and was sent by that body to the Contmental Congress to be held ni Pliiladelphia. Re-elected to Congress, and also made Brigadier General, he was in 1 777 chosen President of the State of Delaware, and in 1782 declined a re-election and was asiam made deleirate to Consrress. Trenton, Feby. 12, 1777. I now set down to write you by Coll. Collins who was left sick at Alorristown and is not vet recovered. He came here the night before last & was detained yesterday by snow which fell the most of the day. As the first and most material piece of intelligence, I inform you that I am in good Health and have not been a moment otherwise since I left home. The day after you left me in consequence of permission had of General Putnam for that purpose, I got a waggon, packed up All. my Baggage and set out tor Pennistown Got about four miles on rny way and met orders from him to return to this Post, letting me know that upon second consideration, he thought it too material a post for any less than a General's Officer. I returned and soon after I came back Lord Sterling came to town, dined with me and promised that as soon as he got to Head- quarters where he was then going he would prevail upon General Washington to call me to Headquarters. How- ever General Washington supposing I was by that time with Putnam did not think proper to do it. Our people, or the most ot them, bv the time they had been a week at camp got so uneasy to return that General Washington ordered them away to join General Putnam. They set out, came to Putnam's post on Monday, yesterday week, and next day as they informed me by leave of General Putnam set out again and came here and the next day set out for Philada on their way home. Upon the whole I think the General hardly expected they would go any farther than General Putnam's Post. Because on Thurs- day evening last which was the day they left here, I rec'd orders from General Washington to take them into my Brigade with Putnam, supposing I had a Brigade under Putnam. All this appeared to be such a mistery that I could not tell what to think of it till Mr. Coll. Collins came and told me that the General finding that he could do nothing with them, said he would march them to Putnam where I was that I might try to deal with them, not know- ing that 1 had been ordered back by Putnam. However to do the men justice who came from our County Mr. Coll. Collins says he is convinced every man of them would have staid provided those from Newcastle and Sussex would but that they were determined against it. Captain Mannv had his men all turned out to stay. PIvery man upon being addressed. Now you must know the General requested them to stay only two weeks and that he would then discharge them. 1 most sincerely wish they had, for their uneasiness drew from the General a very severe letter to them which Coll. Collins has. I have just rec'd intelligence of an engagement between our troops and those of the English at Quibble Town, the particulars of which are not yet fully known here, but are related as follows — That Coll. Scott of the Virginians with about four hundred men were attacked by a Foraging party consisting of two thousand who beat him back. Coll. Scott continued to fight and retreat till he was reinforced which was in a very little time from different quarters to near as many if no more in number than the Enemy, and then beat the enemy back to their lines at Brunswick with the loss of all the Cartel Horses &:c. They had been pil- laging and three hundred or thereabouts of their men killed. Our people lost either two or three men. When I shall be discharged the Service in order to set out home cannot yet say, but suppose it wont be long. However am determined not to leave it while I am thought necessary or usetull, and have reason to believe the Generals ha\e hitherto thought nie both. I have now a lot ot acqiiamtance here, both Gentle- men and Ladies, that do e\er\ thnii;; m tlieir power to make m\' time agreeable, and will I am convinced part with me, when obliged to do it, with great reluctance, ^'oii may think strange how this should come to pass. However 1 am certainly a man of consequence here, tho it" ever so little in my own State, and they have got it in their heads, tho ever so strangely, that I am a gentleman as well as a Whig. My love to Betsey, Sally, Caesar, Clyde &c. Remember me to all m\' friends and believe me ^ ours etc., Caf.s.'\k Rodnky. P.S. pray don't neglect to have an eye to my business cither at plantation or elsewhere. Gentlkmkn of the Asskmiu.y I bee leave to inform \ou that in virtue of a Resolu- tion of the General Assembly passed the Twenty sixth day of June last, empowering the President to appoint a proper person to go to the City of Philadelphia, make inquiry for, demand, receive, secure &:c., the public papers belonging to this State that had been taken awav by the English. I appointed Samuel Patterson, Esq., who in pursuance ot said appointment proceeded to Philadelphia, and, by the papers returned me procured man\' of the Records above mentioned and lodged them in the Offices of Newcastle County, to which thev belong. He has also lodged with me an account of his expenses, which, with the other papers reported to me accompanies this message tor )our perusal and approbation. C.^E.s.^R Rodney Dover, Oct. the 29th, 1 778. Philauklphia, July the loth, 1776. Sir: You mention in your last that Mr. Wells is discharged the service. Coll. Haslet has not as yet reported that matter to Congress. When he does I shall attend to what you have said on that head. With respect to the other matters you sent me, I am of opinion that anv good effect which might flow from them must be local, I mean that it would be confined principally to the inhabitants of that County, — and on the other hand at a time ot such emment danger, when powerful Armies are actually knocking at our gates, and the serious atten- tion ot every friend to American Liberty is employed in giving that manly opposition to those vile invaders of their just rights, privileges and property. Whether it would be prudent to hold out to the World such numbers of internal enemies — especially as by the manly and determined spirit prevailing in the Congress their wings must and will be clipped. The Declaration has laid the foundation, and will be followed by laws fixmg the degree of offence and punishment suitable. Some people have done things, which if done in future nothing less than life will be sufficient to attone tor. These enemies to our righteous cause will 1 apprehend be less on their guard if they are not held up in tiiat public way, than if they are, and will undoubtedly meet their due reward, provided you persue steadily your line of Patriotism, and at the same time keep a watchfuU eye toward their conduct in the politics ot your County. These things must and will be inquired into. But, Sir — - now is the time and season that our open and avowed enemies are pressing hard. They call forth the attention and utmost vigilance of the Congress to that point. They well know the\' have internal enemies in disguise, and whenever b\' the blessing ot God, their virtuous efforts shall be crowned with success. Thev will immediately turn their thoughts toward those sappers ot" the rights of mankind. It is also the business of everv Government so soon as formed to take in hand that business, South Caro- lina has alreadv set them a good e.\ample. I have sent vou a pamphlet called Observations on the Nature of Civil Libertv iJcc, wrote bv Doctor Price in England. It is an excellent piece, and don't doubt, prop- erlv used, will tend to strengthen vour patriotic or in other words independent partv. I have also directed one to Doctor McCall as present. The Militia ot Penns\lvania are beginning their march this dav toward New "\ ork, and I do suppose that hv the last of this week General \\ ashington will be thirty thousand strong at least. Coll. Haslet's Battalion (except one com- pany which to stay at Lewis ' is ordered up to Wilmington, as a security to Philadelphia, in the absence of their Militia, as well as to the Lower Counties, and hopes for this reason the Committee of Satety will permit them to retain i^while thus employed - the Militia Arms belonging to the public. Neither Betsy's or Sally's shoes are vet done. tho. the measures were sent as soon as I got to town. I am glad to tind that you are ot opinion my harvest will be down by the last of this week, pray do attend to it, perhaps wheat will bring something next year. I am vours .Sec., Caesar Rodney (George 33itati BORN Cecil Countv. Mar\Iand, 1734. Died 1798. Studied for the Bar and upon his admission began practice at New Castle, Delaware. He became hv appoint- ment Attorney General for the three lower counties of Delaware in 1763 and was in 1774 elected to Congress. He strenuously opposed the adoption of the Declaration, maintainmg the time had not come for such action, but voted for it. In 1776 he was President of the Convention which formed the first Constitution ot Delaware. In 1782 he was made judge of United States Court ot .Appeals and in 17Q3 Chief Justice of Delaware. He was the first Senator for the State of Delaware. No. 37 Newcastle, ye loth March, 1766. Sir There is a tract of between 50 &: 60 acres of marsh below and adjoining to the Town of Newcastle known by the name of the Town Marsh, eight acres ot which belong to the Hon'ble. the Proprietaries and hath been held by Mr. Geo. Monro under them for many years the rent thereof hath not been near sufficient to pay its proportion of rebuilding and repairing the banks inclosing the whole tract. Doctor Finney held about two thirds of the whole, Geo. Monro, Thos. McKean &: myself held about Four Acres each the residue. Six or seven years since the Banks broke and the whole lay under water until the last summer when Doctor Finney with the consent of the other owners & possessors raised a new Bank at the expense of about ^3.10.0 per acre. The last fall and winter our new work suffered much which induced the owners here to determine upon laying out a considerable sume tor repairing it. A great number of labourers were engaged and Monday the 3rd of March instant, fixed upon to begin, but the Saturday preceeding proved fatal to us. The wind and tide rose so high that the water made its way over the greatest part of the bank and levelled it in many places equal to the surface of the marshes, and we were once more overflowed. This accident occasioned a division of sentnnent about the re- building it. Some of the owners tiiought it impracticable but all agreed to sell and I became the purchaser from the owners here and now apply to your honor as a Com. of Property (not knowing whether there is another) to pur- chase the eight acres above some of the most ordinary in the whole. This in the opinion of persons who have no property there, among others I mention Mr. McWilliam who is a Judge nevertheless in order to make it worth my while to attempt the supporting a Bank to inclose the whole marsh there. I am willing to pay the same price per acre tor those eight acres that I am to pay to Doctor Finney who owned some of the best in the tract and none worse than this of the Proprietaries, to wit nine Pounds ten shill- ings per acre clear of any expense to the 3rd of March instant. — -N. There was then near Five Pounds and ten shillings per acre due to the Comp. Acct. from the said eight acres. And to make a compleat Bank with the neces- sary defences will cost me at least £350 calculating the expence from the 3rd of this month without allowing any- thing for casualties while the work is performing. This Sir is the state of that property more or less of which every Tide during this tempestuous Season is floating away. I should have waited ot you in person upon this occasion but I have twenty two workmen employed in preserving and securing the remains of the Bank, therefore I must beg the favour of you, Sir, to deliver your sentiments upon the above proposal to Mr. Tilghman who will be so kind as to communicate them to me by the hrst opportunity. I am your Honor's most obedient humble servant Geo. Rf.'vde To the Hon. John Penn, Esq. Governor of the Province of Pennsylvania & Counties in Delaware. Cfjomas; ilcllean BORN Cliester Count)', Pennsylvania, March ig, 1734. Died January 24, 18 1 7. Was a member of the Pennsylvania Asseinhlv for manv years, having been first elected ui 1765. In that year he attended a f^eneral Congress ot the Colonies in New Yt)rk and was appointed Judge of the Com- mon Pleas tor New Castle County. In 1 774 he was delegate from the lower counties ot Delaware in the first Continental Congress and served until 1785, having been chosen its president in 1781. He was Chief Justice of Penns\lvania from 1777 until 179Q, when he became Governor of the State, which office he retained until 1 808. My Dear Sir I am sorry 1 was not at home when your favor of the 29th ulto. by express was left at my House, being then with the Congress at Yorktown in Pennsylvania, soliciting the affairs of the Delaware State. Every friend of mine, nay every man of common sense or common honesty must know that nothing under Heaven, but the love of my coun- try & of the virtuous part of the Delaware State, could have induced me to have undertaken the comirrand in chief when it was the duty of the Speaker of the Council in the Hrst place, or at least to have requested it of me; but from whom I have never vet heard, tho I wrote to him on the 26th of last month and delivered my letter to his cousin Major Evans one of the Privy-council: I say no man could suppose it to be eligible in one who had quit the State and accepted the office of Chief-Justice in another, where he could have remained in peace & honor and taken care of his own property & domestic affairs without censure from any one, to neglect them all and step forth to save a "poor & distressed State" without a head, without a shilling, public records &: papers in possession of the enemy, to- gether with their capital &: principal tradmg town; the militia dispirited »5c dispersed, many ot them fled out of the State for safety, and a majority of the rest supposed to be disaffected to the glorious cause we are engaged in, and to undergo all the difficulties and discouragements, he was sure to meet with, and which has since been realized. No Secretary, no Great Seal &c., &c., to be heard of. The command to continue but a few weeks, and another person to succeed, who might either disconcert every plan he should propose or adopt, or reap the honor of it. Tho' sensible of all this, yet I have done it, and by the favor of God will go thro' with the business. You have new orders enclosed: Please to advise with General Dickinson &: whom else you please about the method of carrying them into execution with the utmost speed. There is somethmg more in view than what is mentioned, but I am under an obligation to the General to keep it secret. This hmt must not be mentioned. I must beg you will give orders to the Dover Light horse to hold themselves in readiness to march on a day's notice. I purpose to be at Dover next week. ^'our commission as Major General is inclosed. Please to forward the packet for Brigadier Dickinson, who is ap- pointed next to General Dagworthy; Colo' Patterson is appointed third. Our affairs are again in a most prosperous way. Gen- eral Burgoyne's army of about seven thousand surrounded in a swamp by Twenty thousand Americans, his retreat and all supplies cut off, — General Howe's army, consist- ing on the day after the battle at Shad's Ford on the nth of Sepetmber of 8304 mcluding the sick, and smce reduced by the battle of the 4th instant inclusive of the sick to about 6,000. soon to be attacked again by General Washington & an army of more than double the numbers; and the row-gallies, Batteries &c., playing their part most nobly indeed. In short a month more wdl m my opinion give us peace, liberty & safety. I know your utmost exertions will not be wanting. Let us quit ourselves like men, like freemen, and convmce the world we deserve liberty. You have the copy of a state of the British forces at & after the nth September among the papers, it was found in the pocket of a British Major, now a prisoner taken m the last action. General Agnew was kdled, a Hessian gen- eral supposed Lieut. Gen. Kniphausin mortally wounded and another Hessian (jeneral severely wounded, besides a great many Colonels iScc, and upwards of a thousand soldiers killed, and above an hundred waggon load ot wounded were brought into the city on the 4th. A Quaker from their yearl)- meeting told me this, and that he saw the two Hessian Generals in the condition I mention. General Washington in his letter of the loth to me says, "If the uncommon fogginess of the morning & the smoke had not hindered us from seeing our advantage, I am convinced it would have ended in a complete victory: But we must not repine, on the Contrary should rejoice that we have given a severe blow to our enemies, and that our ranks are as full or rather fuller than they were before. Having no Secretary to help me, I must subscribe m\self ^'our friend &: most obedient Servant Thos. McKe.an October 15th, 1777. To M.'vioR Ghnkrai. Rodney at Dover. iHarplanb Samuel Cfja^e BORN ill Sdmerset Cnuntw Maryland, April 17, 1741. Died June 9, 181 1. Studied law at Annapolis, and was sent by tiie Maryland Convention to the Continental Congress in 1774. He remained a member until the end of 1778. Went as Commissioner from Maryland to England in 1783. He became in 1788 Chief Justice of the Criminal Court in Baltimore and in 1791 Chief Justice of the General Court of Maryland. In 1796 he was appointed to be Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. Phila., Sept. 13, 1777. Saturday 1 1 o'clock, A.M. Dear Sir I wrote to you by express yesterday afternoon, inclos- ing an order on Mr. Harwood for 30,000 Dollars. I have received 20,000 Dollars which Mr. Smith or myself will send in a day or two. I have seen several of our Generals & many of our officers, & it is universally agreed that we have not above 600 killed and wounded, &: that the enemy have killed and wounded above double that number. Our Troops are in high spirits. We have intelligence that Gen'l. Howe has sent for to New York & Rhode Island tor an immediate reinforcement of 4,000. We have ordered 1500 from Poats Kiln. The Jersey Assembly have voted, and preparing and will send in three days 4,000 of their Militia. They give a bounty of 4 Pounds a man. In a Captain's pockett was found a copy of Mr. Howe's orderly book, & Gen'l Washington says he collects from that Howe's force is between 9 & 10,000 men. Mr. Howe has no tents none but officers. We had before the battle 14,000 regulars including officers &.' 5,000 Militia, we are encreas- ing. Yesterday noon Mr. Howe was not returned from the place of battle. Congress ha\e given brevet commissions to the officers who came with Mr. DuCondray, two of them Monsieur Augusto Le Brah, an able engineer, and Monsieur Pierre a skilful artillerist will be sent to you to give you their advice and assistance in defendmg our towns and reaching our artillery. They are both gentlemen and ex- ]ierienced officers. I doubt not you will give thern a polite reception. Would it be amiss to get some person master of their language to be generally with them &: attentive to their wants &; to prevent their being imposed on ? They complain of disrespect i5c imposition here. Would it not be proper for some ot our \oung gentlemen to endeavor to learn their art ? Would it not be proper to have an accurate survey and plot of the harbours & grounds near Baltimore &: Anapolis. Adieu ^ our friend S. Chase Where is Smallwood & Gist ? Where Nat Gist with his Indians ? Halt, znd Decembtr, 1803. Di AK Sir My youngest son, Mr. Ihonias Chase, is obliged from ill-health brought on by a sedentary life, to relinquish, almost as soon as commenced, the practice ot the law. He has been the two last summers to the Bath and Sweet Springs, in Virginia, but obtained no relief from his com- plaint, whicli is situate in the stomach. He is advised by his physicians to a changing climate, and he intends a voy- age by water to New Orleans; and will sail from this City on Sunday week (the nth) in tiie Ship "Comet." He proposes to go up the River Mississippe as high as St. Natchez; and he has some thought of making a permanent residence between those places, if, on view, he shall think it expedient. My son has not mixed, and is thereupon unacquainted, with the world. The knowledge, assistance, and advice therefore of some gentleman of information and experience would be highly acceptable. I hope you will excuse my soliciting you for an introduction of him to some gentlemen in New Orleans, Fort Adams or St. Natchez. Your compliance with this request will greatly oblige, Dear Sir, Your most obedient servant Samuel Chase. To The Honorable General Dayton Senator of the United States Washington. I^illiam S^ata BORN in Harford County, Maryland, October 31, 1740. Died 1799. Ad- mitted to the Bar in 1764 he was chosen in 1 77 1 a member ot the Provincial Legis- lature. Upon the adoption of the Constitution of Maryland he was made Senator for two years. He became Chief Justice ot the Su- perior Court of Maryland m 1778 and Chief fudge of the Court of Appeals in Admiralty Cases in 1780. Elected Governor of Mary- land in 1782, he served in Congress m 1786 and was re-elected Governor. He became judge of the District Court of the United States in 1789. Gentlemen: The bearer hereof is Mr. Pots, a gentleman who some years past left England and resided in Maryland. He is now on his return and proposes to embark from Amboy. He brings with him several letters from gentlemen ot Mary- land for their correspondent in London. We believe these letters are not upon political subjects but if any doubts should be entertained, he is ready to submit them to in- spection. We are personally acquamted with Mr. Pots and know that he is not unfriendly to America. The gentleman who accompanys Mr. Pots is Mr. Thomas a native of Maryland and a friend to America. Your humble servant, Wm. Paca Th. [ohnson, Jr. Stkphen Hopkins I'hilada. March 26th, 1776. 1 o Ihe Committee of Obser\atu)n at Ambov l^fjomas Intone BORN Pointen Manor. Charles County, Maryland, 1743. Died Alexandria, Virginia, October 5, 1787. Began the prac- tice of the law at Fredericktown, Maryland. In 1774 he was chosen one of the Mary- land Delegation m Congress and re-elected to Congress in 1775. He was again elected to Congress in 1 777 and in 1783 and in the intervening years served as a member ol the Maryland Legislature. Sjr 1 wish heartily mv ability %vas equal to my inclination t(j pa\' the balance due by me to \our Company — when I promised you it was in consequence of engagements to myself for double the sum I need for you, in which I haye been yer\- unexpectedly disappointed. I have the greatest reason to believe I shall receive money ver\' soon & when 1 do shall immediately call on you. More I can't do, tho' I should be e.xtremeh' sorr\- that \ou should want one mo- ment what is due from me. I have been almost ruined this year by the scandalous conduct of Sheriffs towards me. Otherwise no gentleman should have asked me rwice for cash owed him. The bal. of our whist acc't. I make 174 no material difference from \ours which is most probably right. I will furnish you with a state, of acc'ts between .Mr. McBride &: self when I see \ou. I omitted to enter the last sum paid to his order iSc have mislaid the receipt for it uhich is the reason I can't send \"ou the state, now. I shall find the receipt or search ^: will do as above. I am Sir Your most obedient T. Stone 1774, Feb. 2nd. Cljarlcsi Carroll OF CaRROI.I.TON BORN Annapolis. Maryland, September 20, 1737. Died Baltimore, Novem- ber 14, 1832. Chosen a member of the first Annapolis Committee in 1775 he was on Jul\' 4, 177b, appointed a Deietrate of Congress, and placed on the Board of War. He assisted m dratting the Constitution of Maryland and was afterwards ciiosen to the Senate of the State. Re-appointed as Dele- gate to Congress in 1777 and re-elected to the Maryland Senate in 1 78 1, in 1786 and in 1797. He was one of the Commissioners to settle the boundary Ime between Virginia and Maryland. He outlived all his col- leagues ot the Continental Congress and died at the age ot ninet\-five. DouGHOVACF.N, i6th Oct., 1820. Sir Mr. Shiplt\ informs me you have not yet paid to him the balance clue on my order on you tor ^HKo. dated 21st of August last &: that you hatl no money and could get none, Mr. Caton being out of town. By my account ot last month 1 had in your hands $4389.25. 1 do not sup- pose that vou have let Mr. Caton have any part of that balance, as I have positively directed you not to pay to him, Mr. Harper or my son any money ot mine without my check on you for such payment, and am therefore at a loss to understand how Mr. Caton's absence should prevent vou paying to Mr. Shiplev the balance of my order, unless \()U paid to Mr. Caton money ot nunc contrary to my instructions, ik in that case you have made yoursell answer- able for such payment. I desire you to inform me if you have paid to Mr. Caton any parr of the above balance and to what amount. Your prompt answer will oblige Sir, Your most humble servant Ch. Carkoi.i, of Carrollton. To Mk. |amks Neilson Baltimore. Virginia (George OTptfje BORN Elizabeth City, Virginia, in 1726. Died Richmond June 8, 1806. He was a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses and was appointed in 1764 on the Committee organized to remonstrate against the proposed Stamp Act. He was again a member of the House of Burgesses in 1768 and 1760, and was elected in 1775 to the Continental Congress. He was chosen Judge of the High Court of Chancery in 1777 and became subsequently Sole Chancellor. He was Professor of Law in William and Mary College. G. Wythf to Mr. Mazzei. I shall take it kindiv if you will procure for me a seal for a watch with the arms of the Taliaforro family on one side, and the initials R. T. on the other side, and the in- closed motto neatly engraved. Let not the expense be more than three or four guineas, which shall be paid upon receipt of the seal and the sight of vour order. This freedom. Sir, is taken in confidence that you would be sensible of the same pleasures in doing me a friendly office as I should in doing one for you. I wish you every telicit)'. Adieu. Wii.i.iAM.snuRCH, 10 August, 1785. BORN Stratford. Virginia, January 20. 1732. Died Chantilly, Virginia, |iine IQ, 1794. Acquiring a clerical education in England he returned to Virginia when 25 years of age and was chosen [ustice of Peace. He became one of the delegates from Virginia to the first Congress in 1774. He was member of a large number of Com- mittees while in Congress, usuallx' acting as Chairman, introduced the Resolution for Independence June 7, 1776. and also sei"ved actively in that bod\' from 1778 to 17S0. In 1784 he was elected President of Congress. He was one of the first Senators for Virginia under the new Federal Consti- tution. He retired from public service in 1792. York Town Octob'r 31st 1777. Sir We have the honor and the pleasure to inclose you a copy of the Capitulation by which Gen. Burgoyne and his Army surrendered themselves prisoners ot war. This great aft'air, might have been still greater, if the near approach of Sir Henry Clinton to Albany (where our military and provision stores were lodged) had not rendered dispatch necessary with Gen. Burgoynes army. Two thousand brave men under Gen. Stark are gone to Ticonderoga and Gen. Gates with the main body of his Army is moving down the North river to meet Gen. Vaughn, who yet re- mains about 50 miles below Albany. Two Brigades with the light Corps under Col'o. Morgan arc on their way to join Gen. Washington. Nothing that we know of hath happened near Philadelphia since the enemies unsuccessful attack on Red Bank and Fort Mifflin, in which two of their ships of war were lost and Count Donop with some inferior officers and 70 privates made prisoners: A more particular account of which has been already sent to Wil- liamsburg. We have thought it of importance enough to send a particular Express with this glorious intelligence, which we hope will be approved. As the Artillery Officer (Capt. Loycaute) whom we had the honor of recommend- ing for the command of the State Regiinent of Artillery raising in our Commonwealth, is here waiting an answer, we could wish to be indulged with one by return of this Messenger. We are with esteem and respect Sir your most obedient and very humble Servants fosKPH JONHS Francis Lighti-oot Lee Jno. H.xrvie invFHi RicH.ARD Henry Lee Reverse Side .... On public service His Excellency Patrick Henry, esquire Governor of Virginia at By E.xpress Williamsburg. R. H. Lee Rec'd November lo, 1777 R. H. Lee to gov. Henry Burgoyne's surrender Loycaute. 3 1 St December 1776. Baltimore. Dear Sir: — The enclosed is a more exact account than that last night inclosed & Col. Bayter who brought us this letter from the General says another party of Hessians was brought in just before he came away making the whole number of prisoners between 1000 & iioo. Farewell Richard Henry Lee. To Honorable John Page At Williamsburg in Virginia. €^f)omag Jefferson BORN Shadwell, Virginia, April 2, 1743. Died Monticello July 4, 1826. Began practice of" the law in 1767 and in 1760 was chosen a member of the Hcnise ot Burgesses. In 1785 he was appointed by Congress Mmister to France and was Secretary of State in Washington's Cabinet, from which he resigned in 1793. He was elected Vice President of the United States in 1797 and March 4th took the Ciiair as Presiding OHicer ol tlie Senate. He was elected Presi- dent of the United States and took his seat March 4, 1801. In 1809 he retired from public lite. September 21, 1798. Sir Be pleased to have paiinent made to Mr. John Barnes of all dividends of interest and principal which will become due on the ist day of the ensuing month of October for stock of whatsoever description standing on the books of the Treasury in the name of William Short late one of the ministers of the U. S. for which this shall be the sufficient voucher under the power of attorney given to me by the said William Short and deposited in the bank of the U. S. I am with great respect. Sir Your most obedient servant Th. Jeffkrson To John Steele, Esq. Comptroller of the U. S. Penjamin ^atvi^on BORN Berkeley, Virginia, 1740. Died April, 1791. In 1764 became a member ot the Virgniia House of Burgesses and pre- sided over that body until 1782, at which time he was chosen Governor of the State. He was twice re-elected to the same office and was a member of the State Convention organized in 1788 to ratify the Federal Constitution. He was also a member of the State Legislature. Berkklev, Feb'y 2, 1767. Dear Sir Mr. Farlev has been at Norfolk ever since I rec'd your letter or would have sent it to him and returned you his answer, if \ou can part with the flour to him on any good terms, I shall be glad of it, as I really want the money for it, but if not, I will use my best endeavors to do it for you, the price you are to pay is the currt. price, but cash is the great article in the bargain, and that I fear is not to be had; This \ou may depend on that I will not give you an\' trouble if I can help it, as I know it is much out of your way. I shall send to Norfolk soon, and will sell it there if I can, if any less we will bear it betwixt us, but if it will not sell there, 1 will in that case send your letter over to Mr. Farley, and let you know what he says. Your last letter to him I enclose you. \ou'l please to send it back open that I may see your proposals perhaps I may do better with it than you expect from him. I observe what you sa\' about the inspection of the flour. The custom is for the exporter to pay it. Mr. Carv did not charge it as it was a trifle to him, however we will have no dispute. You'l please to ask Coll. Tucker about it, his determination shall govern me. \ ou'l please to pa\' the bearer Mr. John Slade the balance remaining which I now want to pay for nw wheat, his receipt shall discharge \ou. ^ our plank is read\" and shall be sent down as soon as mv vessel returns from Nor- folk. Please to give my aftect. compliments to your lad\' and believe me to be Dear Sir ^ our affectionate Beni. H.arrison. BORN York County, Virginia, Decem- ber 26, 1738. Died there January 4, 1789. \\ as a member of the House of Bur- gesses of Virginia before he became of age. He was also member of the Provincial Congress of 1775. He attracted much notice while a delegate to the Continental Congress, resigned in 1777 and was afterwards appomted Commander-in-Chief of the State forces. He returned to Congress in 1779 and was chosen |une, 1781, Governor of the Commonwealth. He participated in the Siege ot Yorktown as a commander of the Virginia Militia. Richmond, Sept. 2, 1781. Dkak General 1 congratulatt vou on the arrival of the Count De Gross with 2^ Ships of the hne, six Frigates and 3000 troops, a circumstance that that must give the most exces- sive jo\- to every true American. I am convenced that the hear mention of this great intiliigence will operate most strongly on your inclinations to take the field. The militia from the South side of the James River are ordered out and the Marquis has fixed on Cobbain instead of I am not informed whether he has writ- ten to you on this subject. 1 wish you to take command of those troops. A circular letter is written to the County Lieutenants pressing them in the most earnest manner to send every man into the field who has a gun of any sort. Should we let slip this glorious opportunity of relieving our Country from the distress of an invading armv for we shall never have another. I atn sure we shall not tlescrve one. I need not add more than to assure you 1 shall be happy to see you in the field with as much expe- dition as circumstances will admit ot I am Dear Gen'l. ^'our Obt. Thos. Nelson, Jr. To (General Lanson. jFrancisi i^isljtfoot Xee BORN Stratford, Westmoreland County, Virijinia, October 14, 1734. Died Riihiiiond in 1797. A brother of Richard Henry Lee, he became a member from Loudoun County to the House of Burgesses in 1765 and acted in that capacity until 1772. He was elected in August, 1 77 5, a delegate to the Continental Congress and was re-elected successively in 177^-77 and '78. Menokint Jli1\- 2, 1773. My Dear Brother By a Glasgow Ship I wrote \ou that Mr. M. Smith intended to ship 60 bbls. tobacco in rayson to answer the bills he had drawn on you, but that he could not take them in; we have try'd since tho' in vain to charter. You have lost near 300 bbls. for want of ship room. As there will be a great deal of tobacco left in the Country, &: the present crop is very forward & promising, I think you should have a ship as early as possible in the tall in the Country. I am afraid Wipkins will be tardy in making his remittances, I have pressed him often and warmly, he has promised to remit you by the first opportunity i.,90 which he had in hand and £100 for which he expects an order from Col. laylor, besides 100 bbls of tobacco which he is hawking about for sale, the produce of which he assures me will be remitted to you. You may depend I will be as bad as a third day ague & fever to him untill he complies. John Gordon says he does not know what he owes you, as you have not sent him sales nor acc't. curr't. Everybody is so read)- at evading demands, that it is impossible to collect debts without having an exact state of their Acc'ts. which you should always send me, at least of those whome you intend I should push for payment. I wrote you by the Institia, Captain Gray, but he is not yet sailed, ^ I doubt will not before Rayson, When she does John Corrie is to draw for his ball, on Campbell. Captain Rayson just left me, his last craft is now taking her load from the lower parts of this River, he is all ready and will sail as this craft gets round. He has been much troubled with the crafts- men, indeed they are grown so bad that it requires a person much better acquainted with this business (?c much cleverer than Rayson to manage them, we are endeavoring to form some regulations for these Gentry against the next meeting of the Assembh'; the trade suffers so much bv tlieir negh- gence is: villainy that everybody is convinced of the neces- sity of taking them under consideration. My zi hhds. are on board, you wdl msure so as to recouver £6 in case of loss. I hope if we should have a war it will not raise in- surance much, as our opponents are not very powerfull at sea. Mrs. Lee intended to have sent her sister some hams by Dobbie, but the Captain assured me it was impossible to keep them in a summer passage, so we have deferred it till the fall, .Sc will be glad to have a conveyance in a ship of your own. I am afraid I am so far behind with you that my tobacco will not pay the bdl, <3c answer the Goods to be sent for by Rayson, but you may depend I will send vou in bills next summer, before the tradesmen will be clamorous for their money. As I shall shortly write again, I must now take my leave, please to give our hearty love to our dear sister & brother Sawyer, & believe me ever your sincerely aff'ection- ate friend .5c brother Fr.ancis Lightfoot Lee> To William Lee, Esquire Merchant in London. Carter ^Braxton BORN Newington, Kinj^ and Oueen Countw Virijinia, September lo, 1736. Died October 10, 17Q7. He was a member of tbe House of Burgesses, Vir- ginia, and took an active part in the session at which the Resolutions of Patrick Henry were presented and adopted in 1765. Later he became a member of the Popular Con- vention and was cliosen in 1775 a delegate to the Continental Congress. Chosen atter- wards a member of the Virginia Legislature, he remained a member of that bod}' until 1786. when he became one of the Executive Council. March 15, 1782. Mfss. Wadsworth &: Cartrh Dear Sirs I am mucli obliged by your agreeing to take the corn carried to Hampton by mistake to vou. provided it comes to Wm's Ferry & to the adjustment ot m\- hist account sent by Mr. Moon. Since that acc't, the one offered by Mr. Dunlevy has accrued and being called on for payment tor all the corn bought 1 am to desire the favour of you to pay that amount to him. One of your agents was here yesterday & told me of the new arrangement made respecting the artillery horses and wished to provide some forage for them after the six- teenth. 1 told him my slaves were gone tor some which you should have. They will be down in three or tour days, but the forage is fine tops, no more blades being to be had, of this we allow two pounds for one & by means of the weight we lose by the exchange. I can also procure some oat straw which the horses are fond of. Of these enough may be furnished for the horses till the crop comes which will be in about 2 or 3 weeks, after which time they will eat none. I have such tine marshes here that you may put a 1000 horses on it & have corn & oats sufficient to make them fatt in the month of April. 1 am much pleased at the alteration of the arrangement as I know you see the errors of the French & will give more corn & have them soon in better order. Anv supply you want here I beg to make or any fodder you want at Wm.'s Ferry rely on hav- ing the preference of. I can have a sufficient quantity down in time at either place. Any assistance in mv power shall be c(Mitributed by Sirs Your humble servant Carter Braxton iSortfj Carolina OTiUiam J^ooper BORN in Boston, Massachusetts. June 17, 17+2. Died Hillshorough, North Carohna, October, 1790. Graduated at Harvard in 1760 and began at once the study of law with |ames Otis of Boston. He re- moved to Wilmington, North Carolina, in 1769, and was sent as a delegate to the Con- tinental Congress m 1775. He was promi- nent in both State and National politics from that time until the date of his death. Sir The Committee of this City a few days ago transmitted to )()u an original letter from Governor Martin to Henry White, Esq., from the contents of which it is very ob\ ions that Governor Martin has formed designs highly inimical to the friends of America. From authoritive information we learn that he is to receive a supply of Gunpowder from General Gage in New^ York & that lie has sent from North Carolina a cutter well armed to receive it. She is a small boat, rigged like a Schooner, mounts a few swivels &: is commanded by a Mr. Bridges the Lieutenant of the Tamas Man ot War. The vessel we believe was formerly purchased in New York by a Capt. Collet. We beg your particular care in case she should arrive in your port to take the steps you may think prudent to secure her i?c her cargo. She is probably to receive the gunpowder from the Arie or some other man of war lying in your harbour. We are Sir with great respect Your most obedient humble servants William Hooper Joseph Hewes. Philadelphia, |une Stii, 1775. Josiepi) Jletoesi BORN in Kingston, New Jersey, 1730. Died Philadelphia, November 10, 1779. Upon the completion of his college course at Princeton he went to Philadelphia, where he engaged in mercantile pursuits until about 1730. He removed to North Carolina and settled near Edenton. He was sent as a delegate to Continental Congress in 1774 and remained a member during 1775 and 1776, serving on many important committees. He declined a re-election in 1 777. but re- sumed his seat in Jul\- 1779- Edenton, 9th March, 1777. Dear Sir 1 have just received a letter from Mr. Hooper by which I have the pleasure to find you had got safe to Baltimore before he left it. Ever since 1 parted with you at Halifax I have been very much indisposed which has prevented me from leaving home. I am now getting better but this weatlier contmues so very bad here that it would not be prudent for me to set out in my weak infirm state. I hope to be with you some time next month. Mr. Thomas Jones was taken sick a few days after he got home. He lingered about twenty davs &: died. His loss is severely felt here. He was a warm friend to our cause and zealous m the support of It. I am told our troops are on their march from the southward. Some of them are at Halifax. The regi- ments it is said are very thin and the recruiting business goes on slowly. I have been informed three prizes have lately arrived at Newburn. One of them it seems was bound from London to Augustine and being maned chiefly bv New England men, the crew took the vessel from the Captain and brought her to this state. It is said she has a very valuable car^o on board. When she had got almost up to Newburn a little armed vessel that was going out took possession of her and now claims her as a Prize. Ought not our' Americans who brought her in have a large share or must the\' be satisfied with regaining their Country