|
|||N||
GAN
ICH
\\<>
ITV43.
lº
§IIIlllllllllllllllllllllll
|- ） ---,Ē¡¿IIIII|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||Ė||*
•· í , ， ,ſiſiſſiſſiſſiſſiñññiñiñïïſiſſiſſiſſiiiiiiſiſſiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiſfË



*** favé--,
Journals III.
*)
OF
£ſ)t 3ſ meritam Comſtøgg &
From 1774 to 1788.
IN FOUR VOLUMES.
—-
VOLUME I: -
From September 5, 1774, to December 31, 1776, inclusive.
WASHINGTON:
PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY way AND GIDEON.
ºr e º e º 'º e º 'º
:&
.
*-
... .s*.* ,**
*
&
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS,
1774.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 1774.
A NUMBER of the delegates, chosen and appointed by the several colo-
nies and provinces in North-America, to meet and hold a Congress at Phila-
delphia, assembled at the Carpenter’s Hall:
PRESENT:
From NEw-HAMPSHIRE :
JMajor John Sullivan, esq.
§. JN'athaniel Folsom, esq.
From MAss Achus ETTS-BAY :
The hon. Thomas Cushing, esq.
JMr. Samuel ſldams,
John JAdams, esq.
Robert Treat Paine, esq.
From RHoDE-Island AND PROvIDENCE
\ PLANTATIONs:
The hon. Stephen Hopkins, esq.
The hon. Samuel Ward, esq.
From ConnECTICUT :
The hon. Eliphalet Dyer, esq.
The hom. Roger Sherman, esq.
Silas Deane, esq.
From THE CITY AND County of NEw-
York, AND OTHER CountrES IN THE
PRovince of NEw-York:
James Duane, esq.
John Jay, esq.
Philip Livingston, esq.
Isaac Low, esq.
From THE County of SUFFolk, IN THE
PRovi NcE of NEw-York:
Colonel William Floyd, esq.
From NEw-JERSEY:
James Kinsey, esq.
William Livingston, esq.
John Dehart, esq.
Stephen Crane, esq.
Richard Smith, esq.
From PENNsyLVANIA :
The hom. Joseph Galloway, esq.
Samuel Rhodes, esq. -
Thomas JMifflin, esq.
Charles Humphreys, esq.
John Morton, esq.
Edward Biddle, esq.
From NEw-CASTLE, KENT AND Sus-
SEx, ON DELAwarE:
The hom. Caesar Rodney, esq.
Thomas JH Kean, esq.
George Read, esq.
From Maryland :
Robert Goldsborough, esq.
William Paca, esq.
Samuel Chase, esq.
f
From VIRGINIA :
The hon, Peyton Randolph, esq.
George Washington, esq.
Patrick Henry, esq.
Richard #. esq.
Benjamin Harrison, esq.
Edmund Pendleton, esq.
From south-canolina:
Henry JMiddleton, esq.
John Rutledge, esq.
Christopher Gadsden, esq
Thomas Lynch, esq.
| Edward Rutledge, sq. +
The Congress proceeded to the choice of a President, when the hon. Peyton
º esq. was unanimously elected.
Mr.
harles Thomson was unanimously chosen Secretary,
2
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
The gentlemen from the several colonies produced their respective creden-
tials, which were read and approved as follows: ... •
PROVINCE OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE :
At a meeting of the deputies appointed by the several towns in this province,
held at Exeter, in the county of Rockingham, 21st July, 1774, for the election
of delegates, on behalf of this province, to join the General Congress proposed:
Present 85 members:
The hon. John WENTwo RTH, esq. in the chair.
Voted, that major John Sullivan, and col. Nathaniel Folsom, esqrs. be ap-
pointed and empowered, as delegates, on the part of this province, to attend
and assist in the General Congress of delegates from the other colonies, at
such time and place as may be appointed, to devise, consult, and adopt such
measures, as may have the most likely tendency to extricate the colonies from
their present difficulties; to secure and perpetuate their rights, liberties, and
privileges, and to restore that peace, harmony, and mutual confidence, which
once happily subsisted between the parent country, and her colonies.
J. WENTWORTH, Chairman.
*sº ºn
PROVINCE OF MAssachusetts-BAY:
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVEs, June 17, 1774.
This house having duly considered, and being deeply affected with the
unhappy differences, which have long subsisted, and are increasing, between
Great Britain and the American colonies, do resolve: that a meeting of com-
mittees from the several colonies on this continent, is highly expedient and
necessary, to consult upon the present state of the colonies, and the miseries
to which they are and must be reduced, by the operation of certain acts of
parliament respecting America, and to deliberate and determine upon wise
and proper measures, to be by them recommended to all the colonies, for the
recovery and establishment of their just rights and liberties, civil and religious,
and the restoration of union and harmony between Great Britain and the colo-
nies, most ardently desired by all good men: Therefore, resolved, that the
hon. James Bowdoine, esq. the hon. Thomas Cushing, esq. Mr. Samuel Adams,
John Adams and Robert Treat Paine, esqrs. be, and they are hereby appointed
a committee on the part of this province, for the purposes iº. any three
of whom to be a quorum; to meet such committees or delegates from the other
colonies, as have been or may be appointed, either by their respective houses
of burgesses, or representatives, or by convention, or by the committees of
correspondence appointed by the respective houses of assembly, in the city of
Philadelphia, or any other place that shall be judged most suitable by the
committee, on the ist day of September next; and that the speaker of the
house be directed, in a letter to the speakers of the houses of burgesses or
representatives in the several colonies, to inform them of the substance of these
resolves. - *
*—sº cº-
SAMUEL ADAMS, Clerk.
RHODE-ISLAND : -
By the hon. Joseph Wanton, esq. governor, captain-general, and commander in chief of and
over the English colony of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations, in New-England
in America. *
To the hon. Stephen Hopkins, esq. and the hon. Samuel Ward, esq. Greeting:
Whereas the general assembly of the colony aforesaid, have nominated and
appointed you, the said Stephen Hopkins and Samuel Ward, to represent the
people of this colony in General Congress of Representatives from this and
the other colonies, at such time and place as should be agreed upon by the
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
3
major part of the committees appointed, or to be appointed by the colonies in
general; I do therefore hereby authorize, empower, and commissionate Joº,
the said Stephen Hopkins and Samuel Ward, to repair to the city of Philadel;
phia, it being the place agreed upon by the major part of the colonies; and
there, in behalf of this colony, to meet and join with the commissioners or dele-
gates from the other colonies, in consulting upon proper measures to obtain a
repeal of the several acts of the British parliament, for levying taxes upon his
majesty’s subjects in America, without their consent, and particularly an act
lately passed for blocking up the port of Boston, and upon proper measures to
establish the rights and liberties of the colonies, upon a just and solid foundation,
agreeable to the instructions given you by the general assembly.
Given under my hand and the seal of the said colony, this 10th day of
-. August, in the year of our Lord 1774, and the 14th of the reign
[1... s.] of his most sacred majesty George the third, by the grace of
God, king of Great Britain, &c.
By his honour’s command, *- J. WANTON.
HENRY WARD, Secretary.
**eº-Gºme *
CONNECTICUT :
IN THE House of REPRESENTATIVEs of THE colony of CoNNECTICUT,
June 3d, 1774.
Whereas a Congress of commissioners from the several British colonies in
America, is proposed by some of our neighbouring colonies, and thought neces-
sary; and whereas it may be found expedient that such Congress should be
convened before the next sessions of this assembly:
Resolved, by this house, that the committee of correspondence be, and they
are hereby empowered, on application to them made, or from time to time, as
may be found necessary, to appoint a suitable number to attend such Congress,
or convention of commissioners, or committees of the several colonies in British
America, and the persons thus to be chosen shall be, and they are hereby
directed, in behalf of this colony, to attend such Congress; to consult and
advise on proper measures for advancing the best good of the colonies, and
such conferences, from time to time, to report to this house.
A true extract and copy from the Journal of the House.
WILLIAM WILLIAMS, Clerk.
Colony of Connecticut, ss. -
New-LoND9N, July-18th, 1774.
At a meeting of the committee of correspondence for this colony:
The hon. EBENEZER SILLIMAN, esq. in the chair:
The hon. Eliphalet Dyer, the hon. William Samuel Johnston, Erastus Wol-
cott, Silas Deane, and Richard Law, esqrs. were nominated, pursuant to the
act of the hon. House of Representatives of the said colony, at their sessions
in May last, either three .# which are hereby authorized and empowered, in
behalf of this colony, to attend the General Congress of the colonies, proposed
to be held at Philadelphia, on the first day of September next, or at such other
time and place as shall be agreed on by the colonies, to consult and advise
with the commissioners or committees º the several English colonies in Ame-
rica, on proper measures for advancing the best good of the colonies.
Signed, Ebenezer Silliman, William Williams, Benjamin Payne, Erastus
Yºlº, Joseph Trumbull, Samuel H. Parsons, Nathaniel Wales, jun. Silas *
JJęa)16}, t - *
*
*
4 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
HARTFoRD, ſlugust, 1774.
At a meeting of the committee of correspondence for this colony:
ERASTUs Wolcott, Chairman.
The hon. William Samuel Johnston, Erastus Wolcott, and Richard Law,
esqrs. nominated by this committee at New-London, on the 13th of July last,
as persons proper to attend the General Congress, to be held at Philadelphia,
on the first of September next, as by said appointment, being unable, by reason
of previous engagements and the state of their health, to attend said Congress,
on behalf of this colony; the hon. Roger Sherman, and Joseph Trumbull, esqrs.
were nominated in the place of the aforesaid gentlemen, as persons proper to
attend said Congress, in behalf of this colony, either of which are empowered,
with the hon. Eliphalet Dyer, and Silas Deane, esqrs. for that purpose.
Signed, William Williams, Benjamin Payne, Joseph Trumbull, Nathaniel
Wales, jun. Samuel H. Parsons, Samuel Bishop.
*º cº-e
NEW-YORK :
By duly certified polls, taken § JProper persons, in seven wards, it appears
that James Duane, John Jay, Philip Livingston, Isaac Low, and John Alsop,
esqrs. were elected as delegates for the city and county of New-York, to attend
the Congress at Philadelphia, the first day of September next; and at a meet-
ing of the committees of several districts in the county of West-Chester, the
same gentlemen were appointed to represent that county; also by a letter
from Jacob Lansing, jun. chairman, in behalf of the committee for Albany, it
appears, that that city and county had adopted the same for their delegates.
By another letter, it appears, that the committee from the several districts in
the county of Duchess, had likewise adopted the same as delegates to represent
that county in Congress, and that committees of other towns approve of them
as their delegates. |
By a writing duly attested, it appears, the county of Suffolk, in the colony of
New-York, have appointed colonel William Floyd, to represent them in Congress.
*º-º-º-º-
NEW-JERSEY:
To James Kinsey, William Livingston, John Dehart, Stephen Crane, and
Richard Smith, esqrs. each and every of you:
The committees, appointed by the several counties of the colony of New-
Jersey, to nominate deputies, to represent the same in General Congress of
deputies, from the other colonies in America, convened at the city of New-
Brunswick, have nominated and appointed, and do hereby nominate and
appoint you, and each of you, deputies, to represent the colony of New-Jersey,
in the said General Congress.
IN TESTIMONY whereof, the chairman of the said several committees here
met, have hereunto set their hands, this twenty-third day of July, in
the fourteenth year of the reign of our sovereign lord king George the
third, and in the year of our Lord 1774.
Signed, William P. Smith, Jacob Ford, John Moores, Robert Johnson, Ro-
bert Field, Robert Friend Price, Peter Zabriskie, Samuel Tucker, Edward
Taylor, Hendrick Fisher, Archibald Stewart, Thomas Anderson, Abia Brown,
Mark Thompson. g
*º-ºn-
PENNSYLVANIA :
Eactract from votes of assembly. -
FRIDAY, July 22d, 1774, ſ!. JM.
The committee of the whole house, taking into their most serious considera-
tion, the unfortunate differences which have long subsisted between Great-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 5
\
– “”
Britain and the American colonies, and being #. encreased by the
operation and effects of divers late acts of the British parliament:
Resolved, JN. C. D. That there is an absolute necessity that a Congress of
deputies from the several colonies, be held as soon as conveniently may be,
to consult together upon the present unhappy state of the colonies, and to
form and adopt a plan for the purposes of obtaining redress of American
grievances, ascertaining American rights upon the most solid and constitu-
tional principles, and for establishing that union and harmony between Great;
Britain and the colonies, which is indispensably necessary to the welfare and
happines of both.
EoDEM DIE, P. M.
The house resumed the consideration of the resolve from the committee of
the whole house, and, after some debate thereon, adopting and confirming the
Same,
Resolved, JW. C. D. That the hon. Joseph Galloway, speaker; Samuel
Rhoads, Thomas Mifflin, Charles Humphreys, John Morton, George Ross, and
Edward Biddle, esqrs, be and they are hereby appointed a committee, on the
part of this province, for the purposes aforesaid, and that they, or any four of
them, do meet such committees or delegates from the other colonies, as have
been or may be appointed, either by their respective Houses of Representatives,
or by convention, or by the provincial or colony committees, at such time and
place, as shall be generally agreed on by such committee.
*ºtº-
THE THREE counties NEw-CASTLE, KENT, AND Sussex, on DELAw ARE:
Jługust 1, 1774, A. J.M.
The representatives of the freemen of the government of the counties of
New-Castle, Kent, and Sussex, on Delaware, met at New-Castle, in pursuance
of circular letters from the speaker of the house, who was requested to write
and forward the same to the members of assembly, by the committees of cor-
respondence for the several counties aforesaid, chosen and appointed for that
among other purposes, by the freeholders and freemen of the said counties
respectively: and having chosen a chairman, and read the resolves of the three
respective counties, and sundry letters from the committees of correspondence
along the continent, they unanimously entered into the following resolution, viz:
We, the representatives aforesaid, by virtue of the power delegated to us,
as aforesaid, taking into our most serious consideration the several acts of the
British parliament, for restraining manufactures in his majesty’s colonies and
plantations in North-America, for taking away the property of the colonists
without their participation or consent, for the introduction of the arbitrary
powers of excise into the customs here, for the making all revenue causes
triable without jury, and under the decision of a single dependent judge, for
the trial, in England, of persons accused of capital crimes, committed in the
colonies, for the shutting up the port of Boston, for new-modelling the
government of the Massachusetts-Bay, and the operation of the same on the
property, liberty, and lives of the colonists ; and also considering, that most
eligible mode of determining upon the premises, and of endeavouring to pro-
cure relief and redress of our grievances, would have been by us assembled in
a legislative capacity, but that as the house had adjourned to the 30th day of
September next, and it is not to be expected, that his honour the governor
would call us, by writs of summons, on this occasion, having refused to do the
like in his other province of Pennsylvania ; the next most proper method, of
answering the expectations and desires of our constituents, and of contributing
our aid to the general cause of America, is to appoint commissioners or depu.
ties in behalf of the people of this government, to meet and act with those
appointed by the other provinces, in General Congress; and we do, therefore,
6 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
-*—
unanimously nominate and appoint Caesar Rodney, Thomas M'Kean, and
George Read, esqrs. or any two of them, deputies, on the part and behalf of
this government, in a general continental Congress, proposed to be held at the
city of Philadelphia, on the first Monday in September next, or at any other
time or place that may be generally agreed on, then and there, to consult and
advise with the deputies from the other colonies, and to determine upon all
such prudent and lawful measures, as may be judged most expedient for the
colonies immediately and unitedly to adopt, in order to obtain relief for an
oppressed people, and the redress of our general grievances.
Signed by order of the convention,
CAESAR RODNEY, Chairman.
***
MARYLAND :
At a meeting of the committees appointed by the several counties of the
province of Maryland, at the city of Annapolis, the 22d day of June, 1774, and
continued by adjournment, from day to day, till the 25th of the same month:
MATTHEw TILGHMAN, esq. in the chair:
John DUCKET, clerk:
Resolved, That Matthew Tilghman, Thomas Johnson, jun. Robert Goldsbo-
rough, William Paca, and Samuel Chase, esqrs, or any two or more of them,
be deputies for this province, to attend a General Congress of deputies from
the colonies, at such time and place as may be agreed on, to effect one general
plan of conduct, operating on the commercial connection of the colonies with
the mother country, for the relief of Boston, and preservation of American
liberty.
—t-
VIRGINIA :
Monday THE 1st of AUGUST, in the year of our Lord, 1774.
At a general meeting of delegates from the different eounties in this colony,
convened in the city of Williamsburgh, to take under their consideration the
present critical and alarming situation of the continent of North-America:
Hon. PEYToN RANDolPH, esq. in the chair:
It was unanimously resolved, That it is the opinion of this meeting, that it
will be highly conducive to the security and happiness of the British empire,
that a General Congress of deputies from all the colonies, assemble as soon
as the nature of their situations will admit, to consider of the most proper and
effectual manner of so operating on the commercial connexion of the colonies
with the mother country, as to procure redress for the much injured province
of Massachusetts-Bay, to secure British America from the ravage and ruin of
arbitrary taxes, and speedily to procure the return of that harmony and union,
so beneficial to the whole empire, and so ardently desired by all. British
America.
-*
FRIDAY, August 5, 1774.
The meeting proceeded to the choice of delegates, to represent this colony
in General Congress, when the hon. Peyton Randolph, Richard Henry Lee,
George Washington, Patrick Henry, Richard Bland, Benjamin Harrison, and
Edmund Pendleton, esqrs. were appointed for that purpose.
*º-º-º-
SOUTH-CAROLINA :
IN THE CoMMons House of Assembly, TUESDAY, the 2d day of August, 1774.
Colonel Powel acquainted the house, that during the recess of this house,
viz: on the sixth, seventh, and eighth days of July last, at a general meeting
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 7.
of the inhabitants of this colony, they having under consideration the acts of
arliament lately passed with regard to the port of Boston and colony of
Massachusetts-Bay, as well as other American grievances, had nominated
and appointed the honourable Henry Middleton, John Rutledge, Thomas
1,ynch, Christopher Gadsden, and Edward Rutledge, esqrs. deputies on the
art and hehalf of this colony, to meet the deputies of the other colonies of
º America, in General Congress, the first Monday in September next at
Philadelphia, or at any other time and place that may be generally agreed on,
there to consider the acts lately passed, and bills depending in parliament
, with regard to the port of Boston and colony of Massachusetts-Bay, which
acts and bills in the precedent and consequences affect the whole continent of
America—also the grievances under which America labours, by reason of the
several acts of parliament that impose taxes or duties for raising a revenue,
and lay unnecessary restraints and burdens on trade; and of the statutes,
parliamentary acts, and royal instructions, which make an invidious distinction
between his majesty’s subjects in Great-Britain and America, with full power
and authority to concert, agree to, and effectually prosecute such i.".
sures, as in the opinion of the said deputies, and of the deputies so to be
assembled, shall be most likely to obtain a repeal of the said acts, and a redress
of those grievances; and thereupon moved that this house do resolve to recog-
nize, ratify, and confirm the said appointment of the deputies for the purposes
aforesaid.
Resolved, JW. C. D. That this house do recognize, ratify, and confirm the
appointment of the said deputies for the purposes mentioned in the said motion.
ATTESTED, THOMAS FARR, jun. clerk.
•-sºº ºne-
TUESDAY, September 6, 1774, A. JM.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
Present: The same members as yesterday, and moreover, from the colony
of Virginia, Richard Henry Lee, esquire.
The Congress, resuming the consideration of rules of conduct to be observ-
ed in debating and determining the questions, that come under consideration,
Resolved, #. in determining questions in this Congress, each colony or
province shall have one vote.—The Congress not being possessed of, or at
present able to procure proper materials for ascertaining the importance of
each colony.
Resolved, That no person shall speak more than twice on the same point,
without leave of the Congress.
Resolved, That no question shall be determined the day, on which it is agi-
tated and debated, if any one of the colonies desire the determination to be
postponed to another day.
Resolved, That the door be kept shut during the time of business, and that
the members consider themselves under the strongest obligations of honour,
to ºp the proceedings secret, until the majority shall direct them to be made
public. *
. Resolved, That a committee be appointed to state the rights of the colonies
in general, the several instances in which those rights are violated or infring-
º: the means most proper to be pursued for obtaining a restoration
OT the Iſl.
... Ordered, That the appointment of the committee, and the number of which
it shall consist, be deferred until to-morrow.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to examine and report the several
statutes, which affect the trade and manufactures of the colonies.
Same order as above respecting the appointment and number of this
Committee. A.
*
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
Resolved, That the reverend Mr. Duche be desired to open the Congress
to-morrow morning with prayers, at the Carpenter’s Hall, at nine o’clock.
Thomas, Johnson, jun, esq. one of the delegates from Maryland, attended
and took his seat.
Extract from the minutes of the directors of the Library Company of
Philadelphia, dated August 31st, 1774–directed to the President, was read,
as follows:
“Upon motion, ordered, !
“That the librarian furnish the gentlemen, who are to meet in Congress, with
the use of such books as they may have occasion for, during their sitting, ta-
king a receipt for them.
Signed by order of the directors,
WILLIAM ATTMORE, Secretary.”
Ordered, That the thanks of the Congress be returned to the directors of
the Library Company of Philadelphia, for their obliging order.
Adjourned until nine o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, September 7, 1774, A. JM.
Agreeable to the resolve of yesterday, the meeting was opened with pray-
ers by the reverend Mr. Duche.
Voted, That the thanks of the Congress be given to Mr. Duche, by Mr.
Cushing and Mr. Ward, for performing divine service, and for the excellent
prayer, which he composed and delivered on the occasion.
The Congress, taking into consideration the appointment of the committees,
a vote was taken on the number of which the first committee should consist,
and, by a great majority, resolved that it consist of two from each of the
colonies, as follows:
Q
JVew-Hampshire, Major John Sullivan, and col-
onel Folsom.
JMassachusetts-Bay, Mr. Samuel Adams, and
Mr. John Adams.
Rhode-Island, Mr. Hopkins, and Mr. Ward.
Connecticut, Colonel Dyer, and Mr. Sherman.
JVew-York, Mr. James Duane, and Mr. John
Jay.
JNew-Jersey, Mr. Livingston, and Mr. Dehart.
Pennsylvania, Mr. Joseph Galloway, and Mr.
Edward Biddle.
Delaware government, Mr. Caesar Rodney, and
Mr. M'Kean.
JMaryland, Mr. Thomas Johnson, and Mr.
Goldsborough.
Virginia, Mr. Lee, and Mr. Pendleton.
South-Carolina, Mr. Lynch, and Mr. J. Rut-
ledge.
Agreed, that the second committee consist of one chosen from each colony,
as follows:
JWew-Hampshire, Mr. Sullivan.
JMassachusetts-Bay, Mr. Cushing. -
£hode-Island, Mr. Hopkins.
Commecticut, Mr. Deane.
JWew-York, Mr. Low.
JVew-Jersey, Mr. Kinsey. '
Pennsylvania, Mr. Mifflin.
Delaware government, Mr. Read.
JMaryland, Mr. Chase.
Wirginia, Mr. Henry.
South-Carolina, Mr. Gadsden.
Ordered, That Isaac Lefevre, and James Lynch, be employed as door-keep"
ers and messengers to this Congress.
Resolved, That the President may
adjourn the Congress from day to day,
when he finds there is no business prepared to be laid before them, and may,
when he finds it necessary, call them
may stand adjourned.
Adjourned until to-morrw morning,
The President, agreeab
the Congress from day to is until
together before the time to which they
nine o’clock.
ly to the resolve of the seventh instant, adjourned
MONDAY, September 12, 1774.
The Congress met.
Matthew Tilghman, esq. one of the delegates from Maryland, appeared
and took his seat.
w
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 9
–2.
"No business being prepared for the Congress, the President adjourned it
until Tuesday, and from Tuesday until
WEDNESDAY, September 14, 1774, J. JM.
William Hooper and Joseph Hewes, esquires, two of the deputies from North-
Carolina, ... the Congress, and produced their credentials, as follows:
JWorth-Carolina, at a general meeting of deputies of the inhabitants of this
province, Newburn, the 25th day of August, 1774:
Resolved, That we approve of the proposal of a General Congress, to be held
in the city of Philadelphia, on the twentieth day of September next, then and
there to * upon the present state of British America, and to take such
measures, as they may deem prudent, to effect the purpose of describing with
certainty the rights of Americans, repairing the breach made in those rights,
and for guarding them for the future from any such violations done under the
sanction of public authority.
Resolved, That Willian Hooper, Joseph Hewes, and Richard Caswell, es-
quires, and every of them, be deputies to attend such Congress, and they are
hereby invested with such powers, as may make any acts done by them, or con-
sent given in behalf of this province, obligatory in honour upon every inhabi-
tant hereof, who is not an alien to his country’s good, and an apostate to the
liberties of America.
Signed, JOHN HERVEY, JModerator
Attested, ANDREW KNOX, Clerk.
The above being read and approved, the deputies took their seats. $
Henry Wisner, a delegate }. the county of Orange, in the colony of
New-York, appeared at Congress, and produced a certificate of his election
by the said county, which being read and approved, he took his seatin Congress
as a deputy for the colony of New-York.
George Ross, one of §e delegates for the province of Pennsylvania, and
John Alsop, esq. one of the delegates for the colony of New-York, appeared
and took their seats in Congress.
Ordered, That William Hooper and Joseph Hewes, esqrs. from North-Caroli-
na, be added to the committee appointed to state the rights of thecolonies.
Ordered, That William Hooper, esq. be one of the committee appointed to
report the statutes, which affect the trade, &c. of the colonies.
The delegates from the province of Massachusetts-Bay, agreeable to a re-
quest from the joint committees of every town and district in the county of
Middlesex, in the said province, communicated to the Congress the proceedings
of those committees at Concord, on the 30th and 31st days of August last, which
were read.
Adjourned until to-morrow at nine o’clock.
No business being prepared, the Congress was adjourned from day to day,
until Saturday morning, at nine o’clock.
SATURDAY, September 17, 1774, A. JI.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
Richard Caswell, esq. one of the deputies from North-Carolina, appeared,
and took his seat in Congress. *
. The resolutions entered into by the delegates from the several towns and
districts in the county of Suffolk, in the province of the Massachusetts-Bay,
on Tuesday the 6th of September, and their address to his excellency govern-
or Gage, dated the 9th, were laid before the Congress, and are as follows:—
At a meeting of the delegates of every town and district in the county of
Suffolk, on Tuesday the 6th of September, at the house of Mr. Richard Wood-
Ward, of Dedham, and, by adjournment, at the house of Mr.—Wose, of Mil-
O
VoI. I.
10 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
ton, on Friday the 9th instant, Joseph Palmer, esq. being chosen moderator,
and William Thompson, esq. clerk, a committee was chosen to bring in a re-
port to the convention, and the following being several times read, and put par
ragraph by paragraph, was unanimously voted, viz. *
Whereas the power but not the justice, the vengeance but not the wisdom of
Great-Britain, which of old persecuted, scourged, and exiled our fugitive pa-
rents from their native shores, now pursues us, their guiltless children, with
unrelenting severity: And whereas, this, then savage and uncultivated desart,
was purchased by the toil and treasure, or acquired by the blood and valour of
those our venerable progenitors; to us they bequeathed the dearbought inheri-
tance, to our care and protection they consigned it, and the most sacred obli-
gations are upon us to transmit the glorious purchase, unfettered by power, un-
clogged with shackles, to our innocent and beloved offspring. On the fortitude,
on the wisdom and on the exertions of this important day, is suspended the
fate of this new world, and of unborn millions. If a boundless extent of con-
tinent, swarming with millions, will tamely submit to live, move and have their
being at the arbitrary will of a licentious minister, they basely yield to volun-
tary slavery, and future generations shall load their memories with incessant
execrations.—On the other hand, if we arrest the hand which would ransack
our pockets, if we disarm the parricide which points the dagger to our bosoms,
if we nobly defeat that fatal edict which proclaims a power to frame laws for us
in all cases whatsoever, thereby entailing the endless and numberless curses of
slavery upon us, our heirs and their heirs forever; if we successfully resist that
unparalleled usurpation of unconstitutional power, whereby our capital is rob-
bed of the means of life; whereby the streets of Boston are thronged with milita-
ry executioners; whereby our coasts are lined and harbours crouded with ships
of war; whereby the charter of the colony, that sacred barrier against the en-
croachments of tyranny, is mutilated and, in effect, annihilated; whereby a
murderous law is framed to shelter villains from the hands of justice; whereb
the unalienable and inestimable inheritance, which we derived from nature, the
constitution of Britain, and the privileges warranted to us in the charter of the
province, is totally wrecked, annulled, and vacated, posterity will acknowledge
that virtue which preserved them free and happy ; and while we enjoy the re-
wards and blessings of the faithful, the torrent of panegyrists will roll our re-
putations to that latest period, when the streams of time shall be absorbed in
the abyss of eternity—Therefore, we have resolved, and do resolve, º
1. That whereas his majesty, George the Third, is the rightful successor
to the throne of Great-Britain, and justly entitled to the ańegiance of the
British realm, and agreeable to compact, of the English colonies in Ameri-
ca—therefore, we, the heirs and successors of the first planters of this colo-
ny, do cheerfully acknowledge the said George the Third to be our rightful
sovereign, and that said covenant is the tenure and claim on which are founded
our allegiance and submission.
2, That it is an indispensable duty which we owe to God, our country, our-
selves and posterity, by all lawful ways and means in our power to maintain,
defend and preserve those civil and religious rights and liberties, for which
many of our fathers fought, bled and died, and to hand them down entire to
future generations. .”
3. That the late acts of the British parliament for blocking up the harbour
of Boston, for altering the established form of government in this colony, and
for screening the most flagitious violators of the laws of the province #. à.
legal trial, are gross infractions of those rights to which we are justly entitled
by the laws of nature, the British constitution, and the charter of the province.
4. That no obedience is due from this province to either or any part of the
acts above-mentioned, but that they be rejected as the attempts of a wicked
administration to enslave America.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. , 1 :
5. That so long as the justices of our superior court of judicature, court
of assize, &c. and inferior court of common pleas in this county are appoint-
ed, or hold their places, by any other tenure than that which the charter and
the laws of the province direct, they must be considered as under undue influ-
ence, and are therefore unconstitutional officers, and, as such, no regard ought
to be paid to them by the people of this county.
6. That if the justices of the superior court of judicature, assize, &c.
justices of the court of common pleas, or of the general sessions of the peace,
shall sit and act during their present disqualified state, this county will sup-
port, and bear harmless, all sheriffs and their deputies, constables, jurors and
other officers who shall refuse to carry into execution the orders of said oourts;
and, as far as possible, to prevent the many inconveniencies which must be oc-
casioned by a suspension of the courts of justice, we do most earnestly re-
commend it to all creditors, that they shew all reasonable and even generous
forbearance to their debtors; and to all debtors, to pay their just debts with
all possible speed, and if any disputes relative to debts or trespasses shall arise,
which cannot be settled by the parties, we recommend it to them to submit all
such causes to arbitration; and it is our opinion that the contending parties or
either of them, who shall refuse so to do, ought to be considered as co-operat-
ing with the enemies of this country.
7. That it be recommended to the collectors of taxes, constables and all
other officers, who have public monies in their hands, to retain the same, and
not to make any payment thereof to the provincial county treasurer until the
civil government of the province is placed upon a constitutional foundation, or
until it shall otherwise be ordered by the proposed provincial Congress.
8. That the persons who have accepted seats at the council board, by virtue
of a mandamus from the King, in conformity to the late act of the British par-
liament, entitled, an act for the regulating the government of the Massachu-
setts-Bay, have acted in direct violation of the duty they owe to their country,
and have thereby given great and just offence to this people; therefore, resolved,
that this county do recommend it to all persons, who have so highly offended
by accepting said departments, and have not already publicly resigned their
seats at the council board, to make public resignations of their places at said
board, on or before the 20th day of this instant, September; and that all
persons refusing so to do, shall, from and after said day, be considered by
this county as obstinate and incorrigible enemies to this country.
9. That the fortifications begun and now carrying on upon Boston Neck,
are justly alarming to this county, and gives us reason to apprehend some
hostile intention against that town, more especially as the commander in chief
has, in a very extraordinary manner, removed the powder from the magazine
at Charlestown, and has also forbidden the keeper of the magazine at Boston,
to deliver out to the owners, the powder, which they had lodged in said maga-
Zllne.
10. That the late act of parliament for establishing the Roman Catholic re-
ligion and the French laws in that extensive country, now called Quebec, is
angerous in an extreme degree to the Protestant religion and to the civil rights
and liberties of all America; and, therefore, as men and Protestant Chris-
tians, we are indispensably obliged to take all proper measures for our security.
11. That whereas our enemies have fliº themselves that they shall make-
ºn easy prey of this numerous, brave and hardy people, from an apprehension
that they are unacquainted with military discipline; we, therefore, for the
honour, defence and security of this county and province, advise, as it has
been recommended to take away all commissions from the officers of the mili-
tia, that those who now hold commissions, or such other persons, be elected in
*ach town as officers in the militia, as shall be judged of sufficient capacity
for that purpose, and who have evidenced themselves the inflexible friends to
k2 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
--~~
the rights of the people; and that the inhabitants of those towns and districts,
who are qualified, do use their utmost diligence to acquaint themselves with the
art of war as soon as possible, and do, for that purpose, appear under arms at
least once every week. e
12. That during the present hostile appearances on the part of Great-Bri-
tain, notwithstanding the many insults and oppressions which we most sensi-
bly resent, yet, nevertheless, from our affection to his majesty, which we have
at all times evidenced, we are determined to act merely upon the defensive, so
long as such conduct may be vindicated by reason and the principles of self-
preservation, but no longer.’
13. That, as we understand it has been in contemplation to apprehend sun-
dry persons of this county, who have rendered themselves conspicuous in
contending for the violated rights and liberties of their countrymen; we do re-
commend, should such an audacious measure be put in practice, to seize and kee
in safe custody, every servant of the present tyrannical and jº
overnment throughout the county and province, until the persons so appre-
. be liberated from the hands of our adversaries, and restored safe and
uninjured to their respective friends and families.
14. That until our rights are fully restored to us, we will, to the utmost of
our power, and we recommend the same to the other counties, to withhold all
commercial intercourse with Great-Britain, Ireland, and the West-Indies, and
abstain from the consumption of British merchandise and manufactures, and
especially of East-India teas and piece goods, with such additions, alterations,
and exceptions only, as the General Congress of the colonies may agree to.
15. That under our present circumstances, it is incumbent on us to encou-
rage arts and manufactures amongst us, by all means in our power, and that
be and are hereby appointed
a committee, to consider of the best ways and means to promote and establish
the same, and to report to this convention as soon as may be.
16. That the exigencies of our public affairs, demand that a provincial Con-
gress be called to consult such measures as may be adopted, and vigorously
executed by the whole people; and we do lecommend it to the several towns
in this county, to chuse members for such a provincial Congress, to be holden
at Concord, on the second Tuesday of October, next ensuing.
17. That this county, confiding in the wisdom and integrity of the conti-
nental Congress, now sitting at Philadelphia, pay all due respect and submis-
sion to such measures as may be recommended by them to the colonies, for
the restoration and establishment of their just rights, civil and religious, and
for renewing that harmony and union between Great-Britain and the colonies,
so earnestly wished for by all good men.
18. That whereas the universal uneasiness which prevails among all orders
of men, arising from the wicked and oppressive measures of the present ad-
ministration, may influence some unthinking persons to commit outrage upon
private property; we would heartily recommend to all persons of this commu-
nity, not to engage in any routs, riots, or licentious attacks upon the properties of
any person whatsoever, as being subversive of all order and government;
but, by a steady, manly, uniform, and persevering opposition, to convince our
enemies, that in a contest so important, in a cause so solemn, our conduct
shall be such as to merit the approbation of the wise, and the admiration of the
brave and free of every age and of every country.
19. That should our enemies, by any sudden manoeuvres, render it neces-
sary to ask the aid and assistance of our brethren in the country, some one of
the committee of correspondence, or a select man of such town, or the town
adjoining, where such hostilities shall commence, or shall be expected to com-
mence, shall despatch couriers with written messages to the select men, or
committees of correspondence, of the several towns in the vicinity, with a
J6URNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 13
-r-E
written account of such matter, who shall despatch others to committees more
remote, until proper and sufficient assistance be obtained, and that the expense
of said couriers be defrayed by the county, until it shall be otherwise ordered
by the provincial Congress. & a tº a tº
At a meeting of delegates from the several towns and districts in the count
of Suffolk, held at Milton, on Friday, the 9th day of September, 1774–Voted,
That Dr. Joseph Warren, of Boston, &c. be a committee to wait on his ex-
cellency the governor, to inform him, that this county are alarmed at the for:
tifications making on Boston Neck, and to remonstrate against the same, and
the repeated insults offered by the soldiery, to persons passing and repassing
into that town, and to confer with him upon those subjects.
Attest, WILLIAM THOMPSON, Clerk.
“To his excellency Thomas GAGE, Esq. captain-general, and commander in chief of his majesty's
province of Massachusetts-Bay.
“JMay it please your excellency,
“ The county of Suffolk, being greatly, and, in their opinion, justly alarmed
at the formidable appearances of hostility, now threatening his majesty’s good
subjects of this county, and more particularly of the town of Boston, the loy-
al and faithful capital of this province, * leave to address your excellency,
and represent, that the apprehensions of the people are more particularly en-
.. by the dangerous design, now carrying into execution, of repairing
and manning the fortification at the south entrance of the town of Boston,
which, when completed, may, at any time, be improved to aggravate the mise-
ries of that already impoverished and distressed city, by intercepting the
wonted and necessary intercourse between the town and country, and compel
the wretched inhabitants to the most ignominious state of humiliation and vas-
salage, by depriving them of the necessary supplies of provision, for which
they are chiefly dependant on that communication. We have been informed,
that your excellency, in consequence of the application of the select men of
Boston, has, indeed, disavowed any intention to injure the town in your present
manoeuvres, and expressed your purpose to be for the security of the troops
and his majesty’s subjects in the town, we are therefore at a loss to guess, may
it please your excellency, from whence your want of confidence in the loyal
and orderly people of this vicinity could originate; a measure, so formidable,
carried into execution from a pre-conceived though causeless jealousy of the
insecurity of his majesty’s troops and subjects in the town, deeply wounds the
loyalty, and is an additional injury to the faithful subjects of this county, and
affords them a strong, motive for this application. We therefore intreat
your excellency to desist from your design, assuring your excellency, that
the people of this county, are by no means disposed to injure his majesty’s
troops; they think themselves aggrieved and oppressed by the late acts of
parliament, and are resolved, by Divine assistance, never to submit to them,
but have no inclination to commence a war with his majesty’s troops, and beg
leave to observe to your excellency, that the ferment now excited in the minds
of the people, is occasioned by some late transactions, by seizing the powder
in the arsenal at Charlestown ; by withholding the powder lodged in the ma-
gazine of the town of Boston, from the legal proprietors; insulting, beating,
and abusing passengers to and from the town by the soldiery, in which they
have been encouraged by some of their officers; putting the people in fear,
and menacing them in their nightly patrole into the neighbouring towns, and
º: particularly by the fortifying the sole avenue by land to the town of
OSt011,
, “In duty therefore to his majesty and to your excellency, and for the restora-
tion of order and security to this county, we the delegates from the several
towns in this county, being commissioned for this purpose, beg your excellency’s
attention to this our humble and faithful address, assuring you, that nothing
~
14 JOURNALS OF GONGRESS, 1774.
less than an immediate removal of the ordnance, and restoring the entrance
into the town to its former state, and an effectual stop of all insults and
abuses in future, can place the inhabitants of this county in that state of peace
and tranquillity, in which every free subject ought to be.”
His excellency was waited on to know if he would receive the committee
with the above written address, but desiring he might have a copy of it in a
private way, that so when he received it from the committee, he might have
an answer prepared for them, he was accordingly furnished with a copy. His
excellency then declared, that he would receive the committee on Monday, at
12 o’clock.
SATURDAY, September 10, 1774.
The Congress, taking the foregoing into consideration,
Resolved unanimously, That this assembly deeply feels the suffering of their
countrymen in the Massachusetts-Bay, under the operation of the late unjust,
cruel, and oppressive acts of the British º they most thoroughly
approve the wisdom and fortitude, with which opposition to these wicked
ministerial measures has hitherto been conducted, and they earnestly recom-
mend to their brethren, a perseverance in the same firm and temperate con-
duct as expressed in the resolutions determined upon, at a meeting of the
delegates for the county of Suffolk, on Tuesday the 6th instant, trusting that
the effect of the united efforts of North America in their behalf, will carry
such conviction to the British nation, of the unwise, unjust, and ruinous policy
of the present administration, as quickly to introduce better men and wiser
measureS,
Resolved unanimously, That contributions from all the colonies for supplying
the necessities, and alleviating the distresses of our brethren at Boston, ought
to be continued, in such manner, and so long as their occasions may require.
Ordered, That a copy of the above resolutions be transmitted to Boston by
the President. e *
Ordered, That these resolutions, together with the resolutions of the county
of Suffolk, be published in the newspapers.
The committee appointed to examine and report the several statutes, which
affect the trade and manufactures of the colonies, brought in their report,
which was ordered to lie on the table.
Adjourned till Monday morning.
MONDAY, September 19, 1774. J. M.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The report brought in on Saturday being read,
Ordered, That the same be referred to the committee appointed to state the
rights of the colonies, &c. to which committee, the honourable Thomas Cush-
ing, esq. Patrick Henry, and Thomas Mifflin, esqrs. were added.
Adjourned from day to day, till Thursday.
THURSDAY, September 22, 1774.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
Upon motion, W
Resolved unanimously, That the Congress request the merchants and others
in the several colonies, not to send to Great Britain, any orders for goods, and
to direct the execution of all orders already sent, to be delayed or suspended,
until the sense of the Congress on the means to be taken for the preservation
of the liberties of America is made public.
Ordered, That this resolution be made public by hand-bills, and by publish-
ing it in the newspapers.
|
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 15
r—
The committee ºpº to state the rights, &c. of the colonies, having
brought in a report of rights, the same was read, and the consideration of it
referred till Saturday next.
Ordered, That a copy of this report be made out for each colony.
SATURDAY, Septem jer 24, 1774, J. JM.
The Congress entered upon the consideration of the report referred to this
day, and after some debate, upon motion,
Resolved, That the Congress do confine themselves, at present, to the consi-
deration of such rights, as have been infringed by acts of the British parliament
since the year 1763, postponing the further consideration of the general state
of American rights to a future day.
Hereupon, the committee appointed to state the rights, &c. brought in a
report of the infringements and violations of American rights, which being
read—upon motion,
Resolved, That the consideration of this report be referred till Monday, and
that the Congress in the mean time deliberate on the means most proper to
be used for a restoration of our rights. *
After some debate on the subject, the Congress adjourned.
MONDAY, September 26, 1774. A. JM.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
John Herring, esq. a deputy from Orange county, in the colony of New-
York, appeared this morning, and took his seat as a delegate for that colony.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the means, &c. and after several
hours spent thereon, it was referred till to-morrow, to which time the Congress
was adjourned.
TUESDAY, September 27, 1774. A. JM.
The Congress met according to adjournment, and resuming the consideration
of the means most proper to be used for a restoration of American rights,
Resolved unanimously, That from and after the first day of December next,
there be no importation into British America from Great-Britain or Ireland,
of any goods, wares or merchandise whatever, or from any other place, of any
such goods, wares or merchandises, as shall have been exported from Great.
Britain or Ireland, and that no such goods, wares or merchandises imported
after the said first day of December next, be used or purchased.
Adjourned till to-morrow.
Wednesday and Thursday being taken up in the consideration and debates
on the means, &c. the Congress met on Friday, 30th September—and upon
the question,
Resolved. That from and after the 10th day of September, 1775, the expor-
tation of all merchandise and every commodity whatsoever to Great-Britain,
Ireland and the West-Indies, ought to cease, unless the grievances of Ame:
rica are redressed before that time.
Ordered, That Mr. Cushing, Mr. Low, Mr. Mifflin, Mr. Lee, and Mr. John-
son, be a committee to bring in a plan for carrying into effect, the non-impor-
tation, non-consumption, and non-exportation resolved on.
SATURDAY, October 1, 1774.
. Simon Boerum, esq. appeared in Congress as a deputy from King's county
in the colony of New-York, and produced the credentials of his election,
which being read and approved, he took his seat as a delegate for that colony,
The Congress, resuming the consideration of the means, &c. upon motion,
16 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
Resolved unanimously, That a loyal address to his majesty be prepared,
dutifully requesting the royal attention to the grievances that alarm and
distress his majesty's faithful subjects in North-America, and entreating his
majesty’s gracious interposition for the removal of such grievances; thereby
to restore between Great-Britain and the colonies that harmony so necessary
to the happiness of the British empire, and so ardently desired by all America.
: Agreed, That Mr. Lee, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Henry, and Mr.
Rutledge, be a committee, to prepare an address to his majesty.

MONDAY, October 3, 1774.
The Congress met, according to adjournment, and after some debate,
Resolved unanimously, That it be an instruction to the committee, who are
appointed to draw up an address to the king: Whereas parliamentary taxes
on America have been laid, on pretence of “defraying the expenses of go-
vernment, and supporting the administration of justice, and defending, pro-
tecting, and securing the colonies.” That they do assure his majesty, that
the colonies have or will make ample provision for defraying all the necessary
expenses of supporting government, and the due administration of justice in
the respective colonies; that the militia, if put on a proper footing, would be
amply sufficient for their defence in time of peace; that they are desirous of
putting it on such a footing immediately, and that in case of war, the colonies
are ready to grant supplies for raising any further forces that may be necessary.
The remainder of this day and the day following, was taken up in delibe-
rating and debating on matters proper to be contained in the address to his
majesty.
WEDNESDAY, October 5, 1774.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the subject in debate yesterday,
and after some time spent thereon,
Resolved, That the committee appointed to prepare an address to his ma-
jesty, be instructed to assure his majesty, that in case the colonies shall be
restored to the state they were in, at the close of the late war, by abolishing
the system of laws and regulations—for raising a revenue in America—for
extending the powers of courts of admiralty—for the trial of persons be-
yond sea for crimes committed in America—for affecting the colony of the
Massachusetts-Bay—and for altering the government, and extending the
limits of Canada, the jealousies which have been occasioned by such acts and
regulations of parliament, will be removed, and commerce again restored.
An address from William Goddard to the Congress was read, and ordered
to lie on the table.
THURSDAY, October 6, 1774.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the means proper to be used
for a restoration of American rights. During this debate, an express from
Boston arrived with a letter from the committee of correspondence, dated the
29th of September, which was laid before the Congress.
In this the committee of correspondence inform the Congress, that they
“expected some regard would have been paid to the petitions presented to their
governor, against fortifying their town in such a manner as can be accounted
for only upon the supposition, that the town and country are to be treated by
the soldiery as declared enemies—that the entrenchments upon the Neck are
nearly completed—that cannon are mounted at the entrance of the own-
that it is currently reported, that fortifications are to be erected ºn Corpse-
Hill, Bacon-Hili, Fort-Hill, &c. so that the fortifications, with the ships in the
harbour, may absolutely command every avenue to the town bºth by sea and
Tand—that a number of cannon, the property of a private gentleman, Were a
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 17
few days ago seized and taken from his wharf by order of the general—that
from several circumstances mentioned in the letter, there is reason to appre-
hend, that Boston is to be made and kept a garrisoned town—that from all
they can hear from Britain, administration is resolved to do all in their pow-
er to force them to a submission—that when the town is inclosed, it is appre-
hended the inhabitants will be held as hostages for the submission of the coun-
try, they apply therefore to the Congress for advice how to act—that, if the
Congress advise to quit the town, they obey—if it isjudged that by maintaining
their ground they can better serve the public cause, they will not shrink from
hardship and danger—finally, that as the late acts of parliament have made it
impossible that there should be a due administration of justice, and all law
therefore must be suspended—that as the governor has by proclamation pre-
vented the meeting of the general court, they therefore request the advice of
the Congress.”
Ordered, That this letter be taken into consideration to-morrow morning.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the means, &c.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to prepare the form of an associ-
ation, be directed to adopt the following clause, viz-That from and after the
first day of December next, no molasses, coffee or pimento from the British
plantations or from Dominica, or wines from Maderia and the Western Islands,
or foreign indigo, beinported into these colonies.
"A FRIDAY, October 7, 1774.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the letter from the committee
of correspondence in Boston, and after some debate,
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare a letter to his excellen-
Cy general Gage, representing “that the town of Boston, and province of
Massachusetts-Bay, are considered by all America, as suffering in the com-
mon cause, for their noble and spirited opposition to oppressive acts of par-
liament, calculated to deprive us of our most sacred rights and privileges.”—
Expressing our concern, that, while the Congress are deliberating on the most
peaceable means for restoring American liberty, and that harmony and inter-
course, which subsisted between us and the parent kingdom, so necessary to
both, his excellency, as they are informed, is raising fortifications round the
town of Boston, thereby exciting well grounded jealousies in the minds of his
majesty’s faithful subjects therein, that he means to cut off all communication
between them and their brethren in the country, and reduce them to a state of
Submission to his will, and that the soldiers under his excellency’s command,
are frequently violating private property, and offering various insults to the
people, which must irritate their minds, and if not put a stop to, involve all
America in the horrors of a civil war.—To entreat his excellency, from the
assurance we have of the peaceable disposition of the inhabitants of the town of
Boston and the province of the Massachusetts-Bay, to discontinue his fortifi-
cations, and that a free and safe communication be restored and continued be-
tween the town of Boston and the country, and prevent all injuries on the part
of the troops, until his majesty’s pleasure shall be known, after the measures
now adopting shall have been laid before him.
Mr. Lynch, Mr. S. Adams, and Mr. Pendleton, are appointed a committee
to draught a letter agreeable to the foregoing resolution.
SATURDAY, October 8, 1774.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the letter from Boston, and up-
on motion, tº a tº wº º tº
Resolved, That this Congress approve the opposition of the inhabitants of
the Massachusetts-Bay, to the execution of the late acts of parliament; and if
Voy. T. $
18 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
the same shall be attempted to be carried into execution by force, in such case,
all America ought to support them in their opposition.
MONDAY, October 10, 1774.
The Congress, resuming the consideration of the letter from Boston,
Resolved unanimously, That it is the opinion of this body, that the removal
of the people of Boston into the country, would be, not only extremely difficult
in the execution, but so important in its consequences, as to require the utmost
deliberation before it is adopted ; but, in case the provincial meeting of that
colony should judge it absolutely necessary, it is the opinion of the Congress,
that all America ought to contribute towards recompensing them for the inju-
ry they may thereby sustain ; and it will be recommended accordingly.
Resolved, That the Congress recommend to the inhabitants of the colony
of the Massachusetts-Bay, to submit to a suspension of the administration of
justice, where it cannot be procured in a legal and peaceable manner, under
the rules of their present charter, and the laws of the colony founded thereon.
Resolved unanimously, That every person and persons whomsoever, who
shall take, accept, or act under any commission or authority, in any wise de-
rived from the act passed in the last session of parliament, changing the form
of government, and violating the charter of the province of Massachusetts-
Bay, ought to be held in detestation and abhorrence by all good men, and con-
sidered as the wicked tools of that despotism, which is preparing to destroy
those rights, which God, nature, and compact, have given to America.
The committee brought in a draught of a letter to general Gage, and the
same being read and amended, was ordered to be copied, and to be signed by
the President in behalf of the Congress. y
TUESDAY, October 11, 1774.
A copy of the letter to general Gage, was brought into Congress, and agree-
able to order, signed by the President, and is as follows:
PHILADELPHIA October 10, 1774.
“SIR,
“The inhabitants of the town of Boston have informed us, the representa-
tives of his majesty’s faithful subjects in all the colonies from Nova-Scotiato
Georgia, that the fortifications erecting within that town, the frequent invasions
of private property, and the repeated insults they receive from the soldiery,
have given them great reason to suspect a plan is formed very destructive to
them, and tending to overthrow the liberties of America.
“Your excellency cannót be a stranger to the sentiments of America, with
respect to the acts of parliament, under the execution of which, those unhap-
py people are oppressed, the approbation universally expressed of their con-
duct, and the determined resolution of the colonies, for the preservation of
their common rights, to unite in their opposition to those acts.-In consequence
of these sentiments, they have appointed us the guardians of their rights and
liberties, and we are under the deepest concern, that whilst we are pursuing
dutiful and peaceable measures to procure a cordial and effectual reconciliation
between Great-Britain and the colonies, your excellency should proceed in a
manner that bears so hostile an appearance, and which even those oppressive
acts do not warrant. *
“We entreat your excellency to consider what a tendency this conduct
must have to irritate and force a free people, hitherto well disposed to peacea-
ble measures, into hostilities, which may prevent the endeavours of this Con-
gress to restore a good understanding with our parent state, and may involve
us in the horrors of a civil war. ſº
“In order therefore to quiet the minds and remove the reasonable jealousies
of the people, that they may not be driven to a state of desperation, being
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 19
fully persuaded of their pacific disposition towards the king's troops, could
they be assured of their own safety, we hope, sir, you wiſſ discontinue the
fortifications in and about Boston, prevent any further invasions of private
property, restrain the irregularities of the soldiers, and give orders that the
communication between the town and country may be open, unmolested and
free.
“Signed by order, and in behalf of the General Congress,
“PEYTON RANDOLPH, President.”
As the Congress have given general Gage an assurance of the peaceable dis-
position of the people of Boston and the Massachusetts-Bay,
Resolved unanimously, That they be advised still to conduct themselves
peaceably towards his excellency general Gage, and his majesty’s troops now
stationed in the town of Boston, as far as can possibly be consistent with their
immediate safety, and the security of the town; avoiding and discountenancing
every violation of his majesty’s property, or any insult to his troops, and that
they peaceably and firmly persevere in the line they are now conducting them-
selves, on the defensive.
Ordered, That a copy of the foregoing resolve, and of that passed on Satur-
day and the three passed yesterday, be made out, and that the President inclose
them in a letter to the committee of correspondence for the town of Boston,
being the sentimonts of the Congress on the matters referred to them by the
committee, in their letter of the 29th of September last.
Resolved unanimously, That a memorial be prepared to the people of British
-America, stating to them the necessity of a firm, united, and invariable ob-
servation of the measures recommended by the Congress, as they tender the
invaluable rights and liberties derived to them from the laws and constitution
of their country. *
Also that an address be prepared to the people of Great-Britain.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee, Mr. Livingston, and Mr. Jay, be a committee to
prepare a draught of the memorial and address.
%. WEDNESDAY, October 12, 1774.
The Congress met according to adjournment. A
The committee appointed to prepare a plan for carrying into effect, the non-
importation, non-consumption, and non-exportation agreement, brought in a
report, which was read:
Ordered, That the same lie on the table, for the perusal of the members:
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the rights and grievances
of these colonies, and after deliberating on the subject this and the following
day, adjourned till
FRIDAY October 14, 1774.
The Congress met according to adjournment, and resuming the consideration
of the subject under debate—made the following declaration and resolves :
Whereas, since the close of the last war, the British parliament, claiming
a power of right, to bind the people of America by statutes in all cases what-
soever, hath, in some acts, expressly imposed taxes on them, and in others,
under various pretences, but in fact for the purpose of raising a revenue, hath
imposed, rates and duties payable in these colonies, established a board of
commissioners, with unconstitutional powers, and extended the jurisdiction of
courts of admiralty, not only for collecting the said duties, but for the trial of
causes merely arising within the body of a county. *
And whereas, in consequence of other statutes, judges, who before held only
estates at will in their offices, have been made dependant on the crown alone for
their salaries, and standing armies kept in times of peace : And whereas it has
lately been resolved in parliament, that by force of a statute, made in the thirty-
*
20 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
-º-
fifth year of the reign of king Henry the eighth, colonists may betransported to
England, and tried there upon accusations for treasons, and misprisions, or con-
cealments of treasons committed in the colonies, and by a late statute, such
trials have been directed in cases therein mentioned.
And whereas, in the last session of parliament, three statutes were made ;
“one, entitled “An act to discontinue, in such manner and for such time as
“are therein mentioned, the landing and discharging, lading, or shipping of
“goods, wares and merchandise, at the town, and within the harbour of Bos-
“ton, in the province of Massachusetts-Bay, in North-America;” another, en-
“ titled “An act for the better regulating the government of the province of
“Massachusetts-Bay in New-England;” and another, entitled “An act for the
“impartial administration of justice, in the cases of persons questioned for
“any act done by them in the execution of the law, or for the suppression of riots
“ and tumults, in the province of the Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England;” and
another statute was then made, “for making more effectual provision for the
“government of the province of Quebec, &c.” All which statutes are im-
politic, unjust, and cruel, as well as unconstitutional, and most dangerous
and destructive of American rights.
And whereas, assemblies have been frequently dissolved, contrary to the
rights of the people, when they attempted to deliberate on grievances ; and
their dutiful, humble, loyal, and reasonable petitions to the crown for redress,
have been repeatedly treated with contempt, by his majesty’s ministers of
State :
The good people of the several colonies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-
Bay, Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations, Connecticut, New-York, New-
Jersey, Pennsylvania, New-Castle, Kent, and Sussex, on Delaware, Maryland,
Virginia, North-Carolina, and South-Carolina, justly alarmed at these arbitrary
proceedings of parliament and administration, have severally elected, constitut-
ed, and appointed deputies to meet, and sit in General Congress, in the city
of Philadelphia, in order to obtain such establishment, as that their religion,
laws, and liberties, may not be subverted. Whereupon the deputies so ap-
pointed being now assembled, in a full and free representation ºf these colo-
nies, taking into their most serious consideration, the best means of attaining
the ends aforesaid, do, in the first place, as Englishmen, their ancestors in
like cases have usually done, for affecting and vindicating their rights and li-
berties, DECLARE, t
That the inhabitants of the English colonies in North-America, by the im-
mutable laws of nature, the principles of the English constitution, and the se-
veral charters or compacts, have the following RIGHTS:
Resolved, JW. C. D. 1. That they are entitled to life, liberty, and property,
and they have never ceded to any sovereign power whatever, a right to dis-
pose of either without their consent.
Resolved, JW. C. D. 2. That our ancestors, who first settled these colonies,
were at the time of their emigration from the mother country, entitled to all
the rights, liberties, and immunities of free and natural-born subjects, within
the realm of England.
Resolved, W. C. D. 3. That by such emigration they by no means forfeited,
surrendered, or lost any of those rights, but that they were, and their descendants
now are, entitled to the exercise and enjoyment of all such of them, as their
local and other circumstances enable them to exercise and enjoy.
Resolved, 4, That the foundation of English liberty, and of all free govern-
ment, is a right in the people to participate in their legislative council : and as
the English colonists are not represented, and from their local and other cir-
cumstances, cannot properly be represented in the British parliament, they
are entitled to a free and exclusive power of legislation in their several provin-
cial legislatures, where their right of representation can alone be preserved,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 21
*
& ©
in all cases of taxation and internal polity, subject only to the negative of their
sovereign, in such manner as has been heretofore used and accustomed. ... But,
from the necessity of the case, and a regard to the mutual interest of both
countries, we cheerfully consent to the operation of such acts of the British
parliament, as are bona fide, restrained to the regulation of our external com-
merce, for the purpose of securing the commercial advantages of the whole
empire to the mother country, and the commercial benefits of its respective
members; excluding every idea of taxation internal or external, for raising a
revenue on the subjects in America, without their consent.
Resolved, JW. C. D. 5. That the respective colonies are entitled to the com-
mon law of England, and more especially to the great and inestimable privilege
of being tried by their peers of the vicinage, according to the course of that
law. I Q
Resolved, 6. That they are entitled to the benefit of such of the English
statutes, as existed at the time of their colonization ; and which they have, by
experience, respectively found to be applicable to their several local and other
circumstances.
Resolved, JW. C. D. 7. That these, his majesty’s colonies, are likewise en-
titled to all the immunities and privileges granted and confirmed to them by
royal charters, or secured by their several codes of provincial laws.
Tesolved, JW. C. D. 8. That they have a right peaceably to assemble, consi-
der of their grievances, and petition the king; and that all prosecutions,
prohibitory proclamations, and commitments for the same, are illegal.
Resolved, JW. C. D. 9. That the keeping a standing army in these colonies,
in times of peace, without the consent of the legislature of that colony, in
which such army is kept, is against law.
Resolved, JW. C. D. 10. It is indispensably necessary to good government,
and rendered essential by the English constitution, that the constituent
branches of the legislature be independent of each other; that, therefore, the
exercise of legislative power in several colonies, by a council appointed, during
pleasure, by the crown, is unconstitutional, dangerous and destructive to the
freedom of American legislation. *. *
All and each of which the aforesaid deputies, in behalf of themselves, and
their constituents, do claim, demand, and insist on, as their indubitable rights
and liberties; which cannot be legally taken from them, altered or abridged
by any power whatever, without their own consent, by their representatives
in their several provincial legislatures.
In the course of our inquiry, we find many infringements and violations of
the foregoing rights, which, from an ardent desire, that harmony and mutual
intercourse of affection and interest may be restored, we pass over for the
present, and proceed tº state such acts and measures as have been adopted
since the last war, which demonstrate a system formed to enslave America.
Resolved, JW C. D. That the following acts of parliament are infringements
and violations of the rights of the colonists; and that the repeal of them is
essentially necessary, in order to restore harmony between Great-Britain and
the American colonies, viz. *
The several acts of 4 Geo. III. ch. 15, and ch. 34.—5 Geo. III. ch. 25.—6
Geo. III. ch. 52–7 Geo. III. ch. 41, and ch. 46–8 Geo. III. ch. 22, which
impose duties for the purpose of raising a revenue in America, extend the
power of the admiralty courts beyond their ancient liaits, deprive the Ame-
rican subject of trial by jury, authorize the judges’ certificate to indemnify the
prosecutor from damages, that he might otherwise be liable to, requiring
oppressive security from a claimant of ships and goods seized, before he shall
be allowed to defend his property, and are subversive of American rights.
Also 12 Geo. III. ch. 24, entitled “An act for the better securing his
“majesty’s dock-yards, magazines, ships, ammunition, and stores,” which
22 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
{
wº
declares a new offence in America, and deprives the American subject of a
constitutional trial by jury of the vicinage, by authorizing the trial of any
person, charged with the committing any offence described in the said act,
out of the realm, to be indicted and tried for the same in any shire or county
within the realm.
Also the three acts passed in the last session of parliament, for stopping
the port and blocking up the harbour of Boston, for altering the charter and
government of Massachusetts-Bay, and that which is entitled “An act for
the better administration of justice,” &c.
Also the act passed in the same session for establishing the Roman Catholic
religion, in the province of Quebec, abolishing the equitable system of English
laws, and erecting a tyranny there, to the great danger, (from so total a
dissimilarity of religion, law and government) of the neighbouring British
colonies, by the assistance of whose blood and treasure the said country was
conquered from France.
Also the act passed in the same session, for the better providing suitable
quarters for officers and soldiers in his majesty’s service, in North-America.
Also, that the keeping a standing army in several of these colonies, in time
of peace, without the consent of the legislature of that colony, in which such
army is kept, is against law.
To these grievous acts and measures, Americans cannot submit, but in
hopes their fellow subjects in Great-Britain will, on a revision of them, restore
us to that state, in which both countries found happiness and prosperity, we
have for the present, only resolved to pursue the following peaceable measures:
1. To enter into a non-importation, non-consumption, and non-exportation
agreement or association. 2. To prepare an address to the people of Great-
Britain, and a memorial to the inhabitants of British America: and 3. To pre-
pare a loyal address to his majesty, agreeable to resolutions already entered into.
A letter being received from several gentlemen in Georgia, was read.
SATURDAY, ()ctober 15, 1774.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the plan for carrying into effect
the non-importation, &c. and after some time spent on that subject, adjourned
till Monday.
MONDAY, October 17, 1774.
Mr. John. Dickinson appeared in Congress as a deputy ſor the province of
Pennsylvania, and produced his credentials as follows:
“IN AssFMBLY, October 15, 1774. J1. JM.
“Upon motion by Mr. Ross,
“ Ordered, That Mr. Dickinson be, and he is hereby added to the committee
“ of deputies, appointed by the late assembly of this province, to attend the
“General Congress now sitting in the city of Philadelphia on American griev-
** anceS.
“By order of the House, *
“CHA. MOORE, clerk of the Assembly.”
The same being approved, Mr. Dickinson took his seat as one of the depu-
ties for the province of Pennsylvania.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the plan of association, &c.
and after spending the remainder of the day on that subject, adjourned till
to-morrow.
.* TUESDAY, October 18, 1774.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the plan of association, &c. and
after sundry amendments, the same was agreed to, and ordered to be tram-
scribed, that it may be signed by the several members. *-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774." 23
The committee appointed to prepare an address to the people of Great-Bri-
tain, brought in a draught, which was read, and ordered to lie on the table, for
the perusal of the members, and to be taken into consideration to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, October 19, 1774.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the address to the people of
Great-Britain, and the same being debated by paragraphs, and sundry amend-
ments made, the same was re-committed, in order that the amendments may
be taken in.
The committee appointed to prepare a memorial to the inhabitants of these
colonies, reported a draught, which was read, and ordered to lie on the table.
Ordered, That this memorial be taken into consideration to-morrow.
• THURSDAY, October 20, 1774.
The association being copied, was read and signed at the table, and is as
follows:—
WE, his majesty's most loyal subjects, the delegates of the several colonies
of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island, Connecticut, New-
York, New-Jérsey, Pennsylvania, the three lower counties of New-Castle, Kent
and Sussex, on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina, and South-
Carolina, deputed to represent them in a continental Congress, held in the
city of Philadelphia, on the 5th day of September, 1774, avowing our allegiance
to his majesty, our affection and regard for our fellow-subjects in Great-Britain
and elsewhere, affected with the deepest anxiety, and most alarming appre-
hensions, at those grievances and distresses, with which his majesty's American
subjects are oppressed ; and having taken under our most serious deliberation,
the state of the whole continent, find, that the present unhappy situation of
our affairs is occasioned by a ruinous system of colony administration, adopted
by the British ministry about the year 1763, evidently calculated for enslaving
these colonies, and, with them, the British empire. In prosecution of which
System, various acts of parliament have been passed, for raising a revenue
in America, for depriving the American subjects, in many instances, of the
constitutional trial by jury, exposing their lives to danger, by directing a new
and illegal trial beyond the seas, for crimes alleged to have been committed
in America: and in prosecution of the same system, several late, cruel, and
oppressive acts have been passed, respecting the town of Boston and the
Massachusetts-Bay, and also an act for extending the province of Quebec, so as
to border on the western frontiers of these colonies, establishing an arbitrary
government therein, and discouraging the settlement of British subjects in
that wide extended country; thus, by the influence of civil principles and
ancient prejudices, to dispose the inhabitants to act with hostility against the
free Protestant colonies, whenever a wicked ministry shall chuse to direct them.
, To obtain redress of these grievances, which threaten destruction to the
lives, liberty, and property of his majesty's subjects, in North America, we are
of opinion, that a non-importation, non-consumption, and non-exportation
agreement, faithfully adhered to, will prove the most speedy, effectual, and
peaceable measure: and, therefore, we do, for ourselves, and the inhabitants
of the several colonies, whom we represent, firmly agree and associate, under
the sacred ties of virtue, honour . of our country, as follows:
1. That from and after the first day of December next, we will not import,
into British America, from Great-Britain or Ireland, an goods, wares, or
merchandise whatsoever, or from any other place, any º goods, wares, or
merchandise, as shalk have been exported from Great-Britain or Ireland; nor
will we, after that day, import any East-India tea from any part of the world;
nor any molasses, syrups, paneles, coffee, or pimento, from the British planta-
tions or from Dominica; nor wines from Madeira, or the Western Islands;
nor foreign indigo.
24 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
* **—º: A -jº-
2. We will neither import nor purchase, any slave imported after the first
day of December next; after which time, we will wholly discontinue the slave
trade, and will neither be concerned in it ourselves, nor will we hire our vessels,
nor sell our commodities or manufactures to those who are concerned in it.
3. As a non-consumption agreement, strictly adhered to, will be an effec-
tual security for the observation of the non-importation, we, as above, solemnly
agree and associate, that from this day, we will not purchase or use any tea,
imported on account of the East India company, or any on which a duty hath
been or shall be paid ; and from and after the first day of March next, we
will not purchase or use any East-India tea whatever; nor will we, nor shall
any person for or under us, purchase or use any of those goods, wares, or
merchandise, we have agreed not to import, which we shall know, or have
cause to suspect, were imported after the first day of December, except such
as come under the rules and directions of the tenth article hereafter mentioned.
4. The earnest desire we have not to injure our fellow-subjects in Great-
Britain, Ireland, or the West-Indies, induces us to suspend a non-exportation,
until the tenth day of September, 1775; at which time, if the said acts and
parts of acts of the British parliament herein after mentioned, are not repealed,
we will not directly or indirectly, export any merchandise or commodity
whatsoever to Great-Britain, Ireland, or the West-Indies, except rice to Europe.
5. Such as are merchants, and use the British and Irish trade, will give
orders, as soon as possible, to their factors, agents and correspondents, in Great-
Britain and Ireland, not to ship any goods to them, on any pretence whatso-
ever, as they cannot be received in America; and if any merchant, residing in
Great-Britain or Ireland, shall directly or indirectly ship any goods, wares or
merchandise, for America, in order to break the said non-importation agree-
ment, or in any manner contravene the same, on such unworthy conduct being
well attested, it ought to be made public; and, on the same being so done,
we will not, from thenceforth, have any commercial connexion with such
merchant.
6. That such as are owners of vessels will give positive orders to their
captains, or masters, not to receive on board their vessels any goods prohibited
by the said non-importation agreement, on pain of immediate dismission from
their service.
7. We will use our utmost endeavours to improve the breed of sheep, and
increase their number to the greatest extent; and to that end, we will kill
them as seldom as may be, especially those of the most profitable kind ; nor
will we export any to the West-Indies or elsewhere; and those of us, who are
or may become overstocked with, or can conveniently spare any sheep, will dis-
pose of them to our neighbours, especially to the poorer sort, on moderate terms.
8. We will, in our several stations, encourage frugality, economy, and in-
dustry, and promote agriculture, arts and the manufactures of this country,
especially that of wool; and will discountenance and discourage every, spe-
cies of extravagance and dissipation, especially all horse-racing, and all kinds
of gaming, cock-fighting, exhibitions of shews, plays, and other expensive di-
versions and entertainments; and on the death of any relation or friend, none
of us, or any of our families, will go into any further mourning-dress, than a
black crape or ribbon on the arm or hat, for gentlemen, and a black ribbon
and necklace for ladies, and we will discontinue the giving of gloves and
scarves at funerals.
9. Such as are venders of goods or merchandise will not take advantage of
the scarcity of goods, that may be occasioned by this "association, but will sell
the same at the rates we have been respectively accustomed to do, for twelve
months last past.—And if any vender of goods or merchandise shall sell any
such goods on higher terms, or shall, in any manner, or by any device whatso-
ever violate or départ from this agreement, no person ought, nor will any of us
J [.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 2J
**
deal with any such person, or his or her factor or agent, at any time thereafter,
for any commodity whatever.
10. In case any merchant, trader, or other person, shall import any goods
or merchandise, after the first day of December, and before the first day of
February next, the same ought forthwith, at the election of the owner, to be
either re-shipped or delivered up to the committee of the county or town, wherein
they shall be imported, to be stored at the risque of the importer, until the non-
importation agreement shall cease, or be sold under the direction of the commit-
tee aforesaid; and in the last-mentioned case, the owner or owners of such goods
shall be reimbursed out of the sales, the first cost and charges, the profit, if
any, to be applied towards relieving and employing such poor inhabitants of the
town of Boston, as are immediate sufferers by the Boston port-bill; and a par-
ticular account of all goods so returned, stored, or sold, to be inserted in the
public papers; and if any goods or merchandises shall be imported after the
said first day of February, the same ought forthwith to be sent back again,
without breaking any of the packages thereof. -r,
11. That a committee be chosen in every county, city, and town, by those
who are qualified to vote for representatives in the legislature, whose business
it shall be attentively to observe the conduct of all persons touching this asso-
ciation; and when it shall be made to appear, to the satisfaction of a majority
of any such committee, that any person within the limits of their appoint-
ment has violated this association, that such majority do forthwith cause the
truth of the case to be pulished in the gazette ; to the end, that all such foes
to the rights of British-America may be publicly known, and universally con-
temned as the enemies of American liberty; and thenceforth we respectively
will break off all dealings with him or her.
12. That the committee of correspondence, in the respective colonies, do fre-
quently inspect the entries of their custom-houses, and inform each other, from
time to time, of the true state thereof, and of every other material circumstance
that may occur relative to this association.
13. That all manufactures of this country be sold at reasonable prices, so
that no undue advantage be taken of a future scarcity of goods.
14. And we do further agree and resolve, that we will have no trade, com-
merce, dealings or intercourse whatsoever, with any cqlony or province, in
North-America, which shall not accede to, or which shall hereafter violate this
association, but will hold them as unworthy of the rights of freemen, and as
inimical to the liberties of their country.
And we do solemnly bind ourselves and our constituents, under the ties
aforesaid, to adhere to this association, until such parts of the several acts of
parliament passed since the close of the last war, as impose or continue duties
on tea, wine, molasses, syrups, paneles, coffee, sugar, pimento, indigo, foreign
paper, glass, and painters’ colours, imported into America, and extend the pow-
ers of the admiralty courts beyond their ancient limits, deprive the American
subject of trial by jury, authorize the judge’s certificate to indemnify the pro-
secutor from damages, that he might otherwise be liable to, from a trial by his
peers, require oppressive security from a claimant of ships or goods seized,
before he shall be allowed to defend his property, are repealed.—And until that
part of the act of the 12th G. 3. ch. 24, entitled “An act for the better se-
curing his majesty’s dock-yards, magazines, ships, ammunition, and stores,”
by which any persons charged with committing any of the offences therein
described, in America, may be tried in any shire or county within the realm,
is repealed—and until the four acts, passed the last session of parliament, viz.
that for stopping the port and blocking up the harbour of Boston—that for al-
tering the charter and government of the Massachusetts-Bay—and that which is
entitled “An act for the better administration of justice, &c.”—and that “for
* * limits of Quebec, &c.” are repealed. And we recommend it to
OF, , , , 4
26 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
execution this association.
incial conventions, and to the
to establish such farther regulations as they may thin
es in
the respective colonies,
proper, for carrying into
The foregoing association being determined upon by the Congress, was or-
dered to be subscribed by the several members thereof; and thereupon, we
have hereunto set our respective names accordingly.
IN Congress, PHILADELPHIA, October 24,
* Signed, PEYTON RANDOLPH, President.
~~~ * John Sullivan Charles' Humphreys
JVew-Hampshire, Nathaniel Folsom. * Thomas #. yS,
Thomas Cushing, Pennsylvania, Edward Biddle,
JMassachusetts-~! º * :
URobert Treat Paine.ae.
Rhode-Island, } sºn,
Fliphalet 1 º'er,
Connecticut, # Sherman, X
Silas Deane. 7&
Isaac LOW,
John Alsop,
A * * John jºk /
'a-º- Pn), (, James Duane,
J\'ext-York: William Floyd,
Henry Wisner,
S. Boerum,
Philip Livingston.
James Kinsey,
William Livingston,
JWew-Jersey, " Stephen Crane,
iº Smith,
John De Hart,
Joseph Galloway, X
Pennsylvani * * *
$/ (lo John Dickinson, X
JVew-Castle, &c.
JMaryland,
Virginia,
JWorth Carolina,
South-Carolina,
John Morton,
George Ross.
Caesar Rodney,
Thomas M'Kean,
George Read.
ſMatthew Tilghman,
Thomas Johnson,
William Paca,
Samuel Chase. X
Richard Henry Lee, X
George Washington, X
P. Flenry, jun.
Richard Bland,
Benjamin Harrison,
Edmund Pendleton.
William Hooper,
§ oseph Hewes,
R. Caswell.
Henry Middleton, --
Thomas Lynch,
Christopher Gadsden, X
John Rutledge,
Edward Rutledge. X
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the address to the inhabi-
tants of these colonies, and after debate thereon, adjourned till to-morrow.
FRIDAY, October 21, 1774.
The address to the people of Great-Britain being brought in, and the amend-
ments directed being made, the same was approved, and is as follows:
To the people of Great-Britain, from the delegates appointed by the several English colonies of New-
IIampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations, Connecticut, New-
York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, the lower counties on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North-
Carolina, and South-Carolina, to consider of their grievances in general Congress, at Philadelphia,
/*
September 5th, 1774.
FRIENDS AND FELLow SUBJECTs,
WHEN a nation, led to greatness by the hand of liberty, and possessed of
all the glory that heroism, munificence, and humanity can bestow, descends to
the ungrateful task of forging chains for her friends and children, and instead
of giving support to freedom, turns advocate for slavery and oppression, there
is reason to suspect she has either ceased to be virtuous, or been extremely
negligent in the appointment of her rulers.
In almost every age, in repeated conflicts, in long and bloody wars, as well
civil as foreign, against many and powerful nations, against the open assaults
of enemies, and the more dangerous treachery of friends, have the inhabitants
of your island, your great and glorious ancestors, maintained their indepen-
dence, and transmitted the rights of men, and the blessings of liberty, to you,
their posterity.
Be not surprized therefore, that we, who are descended from the same com-
mon ancestors; that we, whose forefathers participated in all the rights, the


Journals of congress, 1774. 27
liberties, and the constitution, you so justly boast of, and who have carefully
conveyed the same fair inheritance to us, guaranteed by the plighted faith of
government and the most solemn compacts with British sovereigns, should re-
fuse to surrender them to men, who found their claims on no principles of rea-
son, and who prosecute them with a design, that by having our lives and pro-
perty in their power, they may, with the greatest facility, enslave you.
The cause of America is now the object of universal attention: it has at
length become very serious. This unhappy country has not only been oppres-
sed, but abused and misrepresented ; and the duty we owe to ourselves and
posterity, to your interest, and the general welfare of the British empire, leads
us to address you on this very important subject.
Know then, That we consider ourselves, and do insist, that we are and ought
to be, as free as our fellow-subjects in Britain, and that no power on earth has
a right to take our property from us, without our consent.
That we claim all the benefits secured to the subject by the English consti-
tution, and particularly that inestimable one of trial by jury.
That we hold it essential to English liberty, that no man be condemned un-
heard, or punished for supposed offences, without having an opportunity of
making his defence.
That we think the legislature of Great-Britain is not authorized, by the
constitution, to establish a religion, fraught with sanguinary and impious ten-
ets, or, to erect an arbitrary form of government, in any quarter of the globe.
These rights we, as well as you, deem sacred; and yet, sacred as they are, they
have, with many others, been repeatedly and flagrantly violated.
Are not the proprietors of the soil of Great-Britain, lords of their own pro-
perty P can it be taken from them, without their consent? will they yield it to
the abitrary disposal of any man, or number of men whatever?—You know
they will not.
Why then are the proprietors of the soil of America less lords of their pro-
perty than you are of yours? or why should they submit it to the disposal of
your parliament, or any other parliament, or council in the world, not of their
election? can the intervention of the sea, that divides us, cause disparity in
rights, or can any reason be given, why English subjects, who live three thou-
sand miles from the royal palace, should enjoy less liberty than those who are
three hundred miles distant from it?
Reason looks with indignation on such distinctions, and freemen can never
perceive their propriety. And yet, however chimerical and unjust such dis-
criminations are, the parliament assert, that they have a right to bind us, in all
cases, without exception, whether we consent or not; that they may take and
use our property when and in what manner they please; that we are pension-
ers on their bounty, for all that we possess, and can hold it no longer than the
vouchsafe to permit. Such declarations we consider as heresies in English
Politics, and which can no more operate to deprive us of our property, than
the interdicts of the pope can divest kings of sceptres, which the laws of theft
land and the voice of the people have placed in their hands. •º-
At the conclusion of the late war—a war rendered glorious by the abilities
and integrity of a minister, to whose efforts, the British empire owes its safety
and its fame: At the conclusion of this war, which was succeeded by an in-
glorious peace, formed under the auspices of a minister, of principles, and of
a. famil y unfriendly to the Protestant cause, and inimical to liberty —We say,
at this period, and under the influence of that man, a plan, for enslaving your
fellow-subjects in America, was concerted, and has ever since been pertinaci-
ously carrying into execution.
Prior to this era you were content with drawing from us the wealth produ-
ced by our commerce. You restrained your trade in every way that could
conduce to your emolument. You exercised unbounded sovereignty over the
33 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, tº 74.
sea. You named the ports and nations, to which alone our merchandise should
be carried, and with whom alone we should trade; and though some of these
restrictions were grievous, we nevertheless did not complain ; we looked up to
you as to our parent state, to which we were bound by the strongest ties, and
Were hº in being instrumental to your prosperity and your grandeur.
We call upon you yourselves, to witness our loyalty and attachment to the
common interest of the whole empire: did we not, in the last war, add all
the strength of this vast continent to the force which repelled our common
enemy; ââ we not leave our native shores, and meet disease and death, to
romote the success of British arms in foreign climates; did you not thank us
for our zeal, and even reimburse us large sums of money, which, you confes-
sed, i. had advanced beyond our proportion, and far beyond our abilities?
You did.
To what causes, then, are we to attribute the sudden change of treatment,
and that system of slavery which was prepared for us at the restoration of
eace P
Before we had recovered from the distresses which ever attend war, an at-
tempt was made to drain this country of all its money, by the oppressive
stamp-act. Paint, glass, and other commodities, which you would not per-
mit us to purchase of other nations, were taxed; nay, although no wine is made
in any country, subject to the British state, you prohibited our procuring it of
foreigners, without paying a tax, imposed by your parliament, on all we im-
ported These and many other impositions were laid upon us most unjustly
and unconstitutionally, for the express purpose of raising a revenue.—In or-
der to silence complaint, it was, indeed, provided, that this revenue should be
expended in America for its protection and defence.—These exactions, howe-
ver, can receive no justification from a pretended necessity of protecting and
defending us; they are lavishly squandered on court favourites and ministe-
rial dependents, generally avowed enemies to America, and employing them-
selves, by partial representations, to traduce and embroil the colonies. For
the necessary support of government here, we ever were and ever shall be
ready to provide. And whenever the exigencies of the state may require it,
we shall, as we have heretofore done, cheerfully contribute our full proportion
of men and money. To enforce this unconstitutional and unjust scheme of
taxation, every fence that the wisdom of our British ancestors had carefully
erected against arbitrary power, has been violently thrown down in America,
and the inestimable right of trial by jury taken away in cases that touch both
life and property.—It was ordained, that whenever offences should be commit-
ted in the colonies against particular acts, imposing various duties and restric-
tions upon trade, the prosecutor might bring his action for the penalties in the
courts of admiralty; by which means the subject lost the advantage of being
tried by an honest uninfluenced jury of the vicinage, and was subjected to
the sad necessity of being judged by a single man, a creature of the crown,
and according to the course of a law, which exempts the prosecutor from the
trouble of proving his accusation, and obliges the defendant either to evince
his innocence, or to suffer. To give this new judicatory the greater impor-
tance, and as if with design to protect false accusers, it is further º,
that the judge's certificate of there having been probable causes of seizure and
prosecution, shall protect the prosecutor from actions at common law for re-
covery of damages. f
By the course of our law, offences committed in such of the British domin-
ions, in which courts are established, and justice duly and regularly adminis-
tered, shall be there tried by a jury of the vicinage. There the offenders and
the witnesses are known, and the degree of credibility, to be given to their tes-
timony, can be ascertained. * N.
In all, these colonies, justice is regularly and impartially administered, and
yet, by the construction of some, and the direction of other acts of parliament,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 29
offenders are to be taken by force, together with all such persons as may be
ointed out as witnesses, and carried to England, there to be tried in a distant
and, by a jury of strangers, and subject to all the disadvantages that result
from want of friends, want of witnesses, and want of money.
When the design of raising a revenue, from the duties imposed on the impor-
tation of tea into America, had in great measure been rendered abortive, by
our ceasing to import that commodity, a scheme was concerted by the ministry
with the East-India company, and an act passed, enabling and encouraging
them to transport and vend it in the colonies. Aware of the danger of giving
success to this insidious manoeuvre, and of permitting a precedent of taxation,
thus to be established among us, various methods were adopted to elude the
stroke. The people of Boston, then ruled by a governor, whom, as well as
his predecessor, sir Francis Bernard, all America considers as her enemy, were
exceedingly embarrassed. The ships, which had arrived with the tea, were,
by his management, prevented from returning—The duties would have been
paid ; the cargoes landed and exposed to sale; a i. influence would
have procured and protected many purchasers. While the town was suspend-
ed by deliberations on this important subject, the tea was destroyed. Even
supposing a trespass was thereby committed, and the proprietors of the tea
entitled to damages, the courts of law were open, and judges, appointed by
the crown, presided in them.—The East-India company, however, did not
think proper to commence any suits, nor did they even demand satisfaction,
either from individuals, or from the community in general. The ministry, it
seems, officiously made the case their own, and the great council of the nation
descended to intermeddle with a dispute about private property. . . Divers
'papers, letters and other unauthenticated eac parte evidence were laid before
them; neither the persons who destroyed the tea, northe people of Boston, were
called upon to answer, the complaint. The ministry, incensed by being dis-
º in a favourite scheme, were determined to recur from the little arts
of finesse, to open force and unmanly violence. The port of Boston was
blocked up by a fleet, and an army placed in the town.Their trade was to
be suspended, and thousands reduced to the necessity of gaining subsistence
from charity, till they should submit to pass under the yoke and consent to
become slaves, by confessing the omnipotence of parliament, and acquiescing
in whatever disposition they might think properto make oftheir lives and property.
Let justice and humanity cease to be the boast of your nation consutl
your history, examine your records of former transactions; nay, turn to the
annals of the many arbitrary states and kingdoms that surround you, and
shew us a single instance of men being condemned to suffer for imputed
crimes, unheard, unquestioned, and without even the specious formality of a
trial; and that, too, by laws made expressly for the purpose, and which had
no existence at the time of the fact committed. If it be difficult to reconcile
these proceedings to the genius and temper of your laws and constitution, the
task will become more arduous, when we call upon our ministerial enemies to
justify, not only condemning men untried, and by hearsay, but involving the
innocent in one common punishment with the guilty, and for the act of thirty
or forty, to bring poverty, distress, and calamity, on thirty thousand souls,
and those not your enemies, but your friends, brethren, and fellow subjects.
It would be some consolation to us if the catalogue of American oppressions
ended here. It gives us pain to be reduced to the necessity of reminding you,
that under the confidence reposed in the faith of government, pledged in a
royal charter from a British sovereign, the fore-fathers of the present inhabit-
ants of the Massachusetts-Bay, left their former habitations and established that
great, flourishing and loyal colony. Without incurring or being charged with
* forfeiture of their rights, without being heard, without being tried, without
law, and without justice, by an act of parliament, their charter is destroyed,
30 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
—A-
their liberties violated, their constitution and form of government changed:
and all this upon no better pretence, than because, in one of their towns, a
trespass was committed on some merchandise, said to belong to one of the
companies, and because the ministry were of opinion, that such high political
regulations were necessary, to compel due subordination and obedience to
their mandates.
Nor are these the only capital grievances under which we labour. We might
tell of dissolute, weak, and wicked governors having been set over us; of
legislatures being suspended for asserting the rights of British subjects; of
needy and ignorant dependents on great men advanced to the seats of justice,
and to other places of trust and importance; of hard restrictions on commerce,
and a great variety of lesser evils, the recollection of which is almost lost
under the weight and pressure of greater and mare poignant calamitics.
Now mark the progression of the ministerial pººn for enslaving us.
- Well aware that such hardy attempts to take our property from us, to deprive
us of that valuable right of trial by jury, to seize our persons and carry us for
trial to Great-Britain, to blockade our ports, to destroy our charters, and
change our forms of government, would occasion, and had already occasioned,
great discontent in the colonies, which might produce opposition to these mea-
sures; an act was passed to protect, indemnify, and screen from punishment,
such as might be guilty even of murder, in endeavouring to carry their oppres-
sive edicts into execution; and by another act the dominion of Canada is to
be so extended, modelled and governed, as that by being disunited from us,
detached from our interests, by civil as well as religious prejudices, that by
their numbers daily swelling with Catholic emigrants from Europe, and by
their devotion to administration, so friendly to their religion, they might be-
come formidable to us, and on occasion, be fit instruments, in the hands of
power, to reduce the ancient, free Protestant colonies to the same state of
slavery with themselves:
This was evidently the object of the act: and in this view, being extremely
dangerous to our liberty and quiet, we cannot forbear complaining of it, as
hostile to British America. Superadded to these considerations, we cannot
help deploring the unhappy condition to which it has reduced the many En-
lish settlers, who, encouraged by the royal proclamation, promising the enjoy-
ment of all their rights, have purchased estates in that country.-They are
now the subjects of an arbitrary government, deprived of trial by jury, and
when imprisoned, cannot claim the benefit of the habeas corpus act, that great
bulwark and palladium of English liberty. Nor can we suppress our astonish-
ment, that a British parliament, should ever consent to establish in that country,
a religion that has deluged your island in blood, and dispersed impiety, bigotry,
persecution, murder, and rebellion through every part of the world.
This being a true state of facts, let us beseech you to consider to what end
they lead.
X. that the ministry, by the powers of Britain, and the aid of our Roman
Catholic neighbours, should be able to carry the point of taxation, and reduce
us to a state of perfect humiliation and slavery: Such an enterprize would
doubtless make some addition to your national debt, which already presses
down your liberties, and fills you with pensioners and placemen. We pre-
sume, also, that your commerce will somewhat be diminished. However,
suppose you should prove victorious, in what condition will you then be *
What advantages or what laurels will you reap from-such a conquest?
May not a ministry with the same armies enslave you ?—It may be said,
you will cease to pay them,--but remember the taxes from America, the wealth,
and we may add the men, and particularly the Roman Catholics of this vast
continent, will then be in the power of your enemies; nor will you have any
reason to expect, that after making slaves of us, many among us should refuse
to assist in reducing you to the same abject state.
g
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 31
Do not treat this as chimerical. Know that in less than half a century, the
quit-rents reserved to the crown, from the numberless grants of this vast con-
tinent, will pour large streams of wealth into the royal coffers, and if to this be
added, the power of taxing America at pleasure, the crown will be rendered
independent of you for supplies, and will possess more treasure than may be
necessary to purchase the remains of liberty in your island.—In a word, take
care that you do not fall into the pit that is preparing for us.
We believe there is yet much virtue, much justice and much public spirit,
in the English nation.—To that justice we now appeal. You have been told
that we are seditious, impatient of government, and desirous of independency.
Be assured that these are not facts, but calumnies.—Permit us to be as free
as yourselves, and we shall ever esteem a union with you, to be our greatest
glory and our greatest happiness; we shall ever be ready to contribute all in
our power to the welfare of the empire; we shall consider your enemies as
our enemies, and your interest as our own. $
But, if you are determined that your ministers shall wantonly sport with the
rights of mankind—iſ neither the voice of justice, the dictates of the law, the
principles, of the constitution, or the suggestions of humanity, can restrain
your hands from shedding human blood, in such an impious cause, we must
then tell you, that we will never submit to be hewers of wood, or drawers of
water for any ministry or nation in the world.
Place us in the same situation that we were at the close of the last war, and
our former harmony will be restored.
But, lest the same supineness, and the same inattention to our common inte-
rest, which you have for several years shewn, should continue, we think it
prudent to anticipate the consequences.
By the destruction of the trade of Boston, the ministry have endeavoured
to induce submission to their measures. The like fate may befal us all. We
will endeavour, therefore, to live without trade, and recur, for subsistence, to
the fertility and bounty of our native soil, which will afford us all the neces-
saries, and some of the conveniencies, of life. We have suspended our im-
portation from Great-Britain and Ireland; and, in less than a year’s time,
unless our grievances should be redressed, shall discontinue our exports to those
kingdoms and the West-Indies.
It is with the utmost regret, however, that we find ourselves compelled, by the
over ruling principles of self-preservation, to adopt measures detrimental, in
their consequences, to numbers of our fellow-subjects in Great-Britain and
Ireland. But, we hope, that the magnanimity and justice of the British nation
will furnish a parliament of such wisdom, independence, and public spirit,
as may save the violated rights of the whole empire, from the devices of wick-
ed ministers and evil counsellors, whether in or out of office; and thereby re-
store that harmony, friendship, and fraternal affection, between all the i.
tants or his majesty’s kingdoms and territories so ardently wished for, by
every true and honest American.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the memorial to the in-
habitants of the British colonies, and the same being debated by paragraphs
and amended, was approved, and is as follows: y
To the inhabitants of the colonies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island and
Providence Plantations, Connecticut, New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, the counties of
Sºle, Kent and Sussex, on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina and South-
AI'Ollugu :
FRIENDS AND countryMEN,
We, the delegates appointed, by the good people of these colonies, to meet
at Philadelphia, in September last, for the purposes mentioned by our respec-
tive constituents, have, in pursuance of the trust reposed in us, assembled, and
taken into our most serious consideration, the important matters recommend-
32 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
*º-ººººººººººº-ºrg
ed to the Congress. Our resolutions thereupon will be here with communi,
cated to you. But, as the situation of public affairs grows, daily, more and
more alarming; and, as it may be more satisfactory, to you, to be informed,
by us, in a collective body, than in any other manner, of those sentiments that
have been approved, upon a full and free discussion, by the representatives of
so great a part of America, we esteem ourselves obliged to add this address to
these resolutions.
In every case of opposition by a people to their rulers, or of one state to
another, duty to Almighty God, the creator of all, requires that a true and im:
partial judgment be formed of the measurers leading to such opposition; and
of the causes by which it has been provoked, or can in any degree be justified,
that neither affection on the one hand, nor resentment on the other, being
permitted to give a wrong bias to reason, it may be enabled to take a dispº,
sionate view of all circumstances, and to settle the public conduct on the solid
foundations of wisdom and justice. º
From councils, thus tempered, arise the surest hopes of the divine favour,
the firmest encouragement to the parties engaged, and the strongest recom-
mendation of their cause, to the rest of mankind. tº wºn tº
With minds deeply impressed by a sense of these truths, we have diligent-
ly, deliberately, and calmly enquired into, and considered those exertions,
both of the legislative and executive power of Great-Britain, which have ex-
cited so much uneasiness in America, and have with equal fidelity and attention,
considered the conduct of the colonies. Upon the whole, we find ourselves
reduced to the disagreeable alternative of being silent, and betraying the in-
nocent, or of speaking out, and censuring those we wish to revere. In making
our choice of these distressing difficulties, we prefer the course dictated by
honesty, and a regard for the welfare, of our country.
Soon after the conclusion of the late war, there commenced a memorable
change in the treatment of these colonies. By a statute, made in the fourth
year of the present reign, a time of profound peace, alleging, “the expediency
of new provisions and regulations for extending the commerce between Great.
“Britain and his majesty’s dominions in America, and the necessity of
“raising a revenue, in the said dominions, for defraying the expenses of de-
“fending, protecting and securing the same,” the commons of Great-Britain
undertook to give and grant to his majesty many rates and duties, to be paid
in these colonies. To enforce the observance of this act, it prescribes a great
number of severe penalties and forfeitures; ana, in two sections, makes a re-
markable distinction between the subjects in Great-Britain, and those in
America. By the one, the penalties and forfeitures incurred there, are to be
recovered in any of the king's courts of record, at Westminister, or in the court
of exchequer, in Scotland; and by the other, the penalties and forfeitures incur-
red here, are to be recovered in any court of record, or in any court of admi-
rality, or vice-admiralty at the election of the informer or prosecutor. . . .
The inhabitants of these colonies, confiding in the justice, 6f Great-Britain,
were scarcely allowed sufficient time to receive and consider this act, before
another, well known by the name of the Stamp-Act, and passed in the fifth
year of this reign, engrossed their whole attention. By this statute, the British
parliament exercised, in the most explicit manner, a power of taxing us, and
extending the jurisdiction of courts of admiralty and vice-admiralty, in the
colonies, to matters arising within the body of a county, and directed the
numerous penalties and forfeitures, thereby inflicted, to be recovered in the
said courts.
In the same year, a tax was imposed upon us, by an act establishing several
new fees in the customs. In the next year, the stamp-act was repealed; not
because it was founded in an erroneous principle, but as the repealing act re-
cites, because “ the continuance thereof would be attended with many inconve-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
3
3.
“niencies, and might be productive of consequences greatly detrimental to the
“ commercial interest of Great-Britain.” -
In the same year, and by a subsequent act, it was declared, “that his ma-
“jesty, in parliament, of right, had power to bind the people of these colonies,
“by statutes, in all cases whatsoever.” & *
In the same year, another act was passed, for imposing rates and duties pº
in these colonies. In this statute, the commons, avoiding the terms of giving
and granting, “humbly besought his majesty, that it might be enacted, &c.”
But, from a declaration in the preamble, that the rates and duties were “in
lieu of" several others granted by the statute first before mentioned, for raising
a revenue, and from some other expressions, it appears, that these duties were
intended for that purpose.
In the next year, [1767] an act was made “to enable his majesty to put the
“customs, and other duties in America, under the management of commis-
“sioners, &c.” and the king, thereupon, erected the present expensive board
of commissioners, for the express purpose of carrying into execution the
several acts relating to the revenue and trade in America.
After the repeal of the stamp-act, having again resigned ourselves to our
ancient unsuspicious affections for the parent state, and anxious to avoid any
controversy with her, in bopes of a favorable alteration, in sentiments and
measures, towards us, we did not press our objections against the above men-
tioned statutes, made subsequent to that repeal.
Administration, attributing to trifling causes, a conduct that really proceeded
from generous motives, were encouraged in the same year [1767] to make a
bolder-experiment on the patience of America.
By a statute, commonly called the glass, paper, and tea act, made fifteen
months after the repeal of the stamp-act, the commons of Great-Britain re-
sumed their former language, and again undertook to “give and grant rates
“ and duties, to be paid in these colonies,” for the express purpose of “raising
“a revenue, to defray the charges of the administration of justice, the support
“ of civil government, and defending the king’s dominions,” on this continent.
The penalties and forfeitures, incurred under this statute, are to be recovered
in the same manner, with those mentioned in the foregoing acts.
To this statute, so naturally tending to disturb the tranquillity, then uni-
versal throughout the colonies, parliament, in the same session, added another
no less extraordinary.
Ever since the making the present peace, a standing army has been kept
in these colonies. From respect for the mother-country, the innovation was
not only tolerated, but the provincial legislatures, generally, made provision
for supplying the troops.
The assembly of the province of New-York, having passed an act of this
kind, but differing in some articles, from the directions of the act of parliament
made in the fifth year of this reign, the house of representatives, in that
colony, was prohibited by a statute, made in the last session mentioned, from
making any bill, order, resolution, or vote, except for adjourning or chusing a
speaker, until provision should be made, by the said assembly, for furnishing
the troops, within that province, not only with all such necessaries as were
required by the statute, which they were charged with disobeying, but also
with those required by two other subsequent statutes, which were declared to
bein force, until the twenty-fourth day of March, 1769.
These statutes of the year 1767, revived the apprehensions and discontents,
that had entirely subsided on the repeal of the stamp-act; and, amidst the just
fears and jealousies, thereby occasioned, a statute was made, in the next year,
[1768] to establish courts of admiralty and vice-admiralty on a new model,
“prº º: the end of more effectually recovering of the penalties and for:
OL, l\ 5 W
34 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
feitures inflicted by acts of parliament, framed for the purpose of raising a
revenue in America, &c.
The immediate tendency of these statutes is, to subvert the right of having
a share in legislation, by rendering assemblies useless; the right of property,
by taking the money of the colonists, without their consent; the right | trial
by jury, by substituting in their place trials in admiralty and vice-admiralty
courts, where single judges preside, holding their commissions during pleasure;
and unduly to influence the courts of common law, by rendering the judges
thereof totally dependent on the crown for their salaries.
These statutes, not to mention many others exceedingly exceptionable,
compared, one with another, will be found, not only to form a regular system, in
which every part has great force, but also a pertinacious adherence to that
system, for subjugating these colonies, that are not, and, from local circum-
stances, cannot be represented in the house of commons, to the uncontroulable
and unlimited power of parliament, in violation of their undoubted rights and
liberties, in contempt of their humble and repeated supplications.
This conduct must appear equally astonishing and unjustifiable, when it is
considered how unprovoked it has been by any behaviour of these colonies.
From their first settlement, their bitterest enemies never fixed on any of them
a charge of disloyalty to their sovereign, or disaffection to their mother-country.
In the wars she has carried on, they have exerted themselves, whenever re-
quired, in giving her assistance; and have rendered her services, which she
has publicly acknowledged to be extremely important. Their fidelity, duty
and usefulness during the last war, were frequently and affectionately con-
fessed, by his late majesty, and the present king.
The reproaches of those, who are most unfriendly to the freedom of America,
are principally levelled against the province of Massachusetts-Bay; but with
what little reason, will appear by the following declarations of a person, the
truth of whose evidence, in their favour, will not be questioned. Governor
Bernard thus addresses the two houses of assembly, in his speech, on the 24th
of April, 1762–4 The unanimity and despatch, with which you have complied
with the requisitions of his majesty, require my particular acknowledgment;
and, it gives me additional pleasure to observe, that you have therein acted
under no other influence than a due sense of your duty, both as members of a
general empire, and as the body of a particular province.”
In another speech, on the 27th of May, in the same year, he says, “What-
ever shall be the event of the war,’ it must be no small satisfaction to us, that
this province hath contributed its full share to the support of it. Every thing
that hath been required of it, hath been complied with; and the execution of
the powers committed to me, for raising the provincial troops, hath been as
full and complete as the grant of them. Never, before, were regiments so
easily levied, so well composed, and so early in the field as they have been
this year: the common people seemed to be animated with the spirit of the
eneral court, and to vie, with them, in their readiness to serve the king.”
Such was the conduct of the people of the Massachusetts-Bay, during the
last war. As to their behaviour, before that period, it ought not to have been
forgot in Great-Britain, that not only on every occasion, they had constantly
and cheerfully complied with the frequent royal requisitions; but, that chief
by their vigorous efforts, Nova-Scotia was subdued in 1710, and Louisbourg
in 1745.
Foreign quarrels being ended, and the domestic disturbances, that quickly
succeeded, on account of the stampt-act, being quieted § its repeal, the
assembly of Massachusetts-Bay transmitted an humble address of thanks to
the king and divers noblemen, and soon after passed a bill for granting com-
pensation to the sufferers, in the disorder occasioned by that act.
These circumstances, and the following extracts, from governor Bernard’s
letters, in 1768, to the earl of Shelburne, secretary of state, clearly Shew,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 35
~~~~-tº-
with what grateful tenderness they strove to bury, in oblivion, the unhappy
occasion of the late discords, and with what respectful deference they en-
deavoured to escape other subjects of future controversy. “The house, (says
the governor) from the time of opening the session to this day, has shewn a
disposition to avoid all dispute with me : every thing having passed with as
much good humour as I could desire, except only their continuing to act in
addressing the king, remonstrating to the secretary of state, and employing a
separate agent. It is the importance of this innovation, without any wilfulness
of my own, which induces me to make this remonstrance, at a time when I
have a fair prospect of having, in all other business nothing but good to say
of the proceedings of the house.”
“They have acted, in all things, even in their remonstrance, with temper
and moderation; they have avoided some subjects of dispute, and have laid a
foundation for removing some causes of former altercation.”f tº
“I shall make such a prudent and proper use of this letter, as I hope, will
perfectly restore the peace and tranquillity of this province, for which purpose
considerable steps have been made by the house of representatives.”f
The vindication of the province of Massachusetts-Bay, contained in these
letters, will have greater force, if it be considered, that they were written
several months after the fresh alarm given to the colonies, by the statutes
passed in the preceding year.
In this place, it seems proper to take notice of the insinuation of one of those
statutes, that the interference of parliament was necessary to provide for
“defraying the charge of the administration of justice, the support of civil
“government, and defending the king’s dominions in America.” º
As to the two first-articles of expense, every colony had made such provi-
sion, as by their respective assemblies, the best judges on such occasions, was
thought expedient, and suitable to their several circumstances: respecting the
last, it is well known to all men, the least acquainted with American affairs,
that the colonies were established, and generally defended themselves, without
the least assistance from Great-Britain; and that, at the time of her taxing
them, by the statutes before mentioned, most of them were labouring under
very heavy debts contracted in the last war. So far were they from sparing
their money, when their sovereign, constitutionally, asked their aids, that
during the course of that war, parliament repeatedly made them compensa-
tions for the expenses of those strenuous efforts, which, consulting their zeal,
rather than their strength, they had cheerfully incurred. *
severe as the acts of parliament, before mentioned, are, yet the conduct of
administration hath been equally injurious, and irritating, to this devoted
country.
tº: retence of governing them, so many new institutions, uniformly rigid
and dangérous, have been introduced, as could only be expected from in-
censed masters, for collecting the tribute, or rather the plunder, of conquered
provinces.
. By an order of the king, the authority of the commander in chief, and under
him, of the brigadier-generals, in time of peace, is rendered supreme in all the
civil governments, in America; and thus, an uncontroulable military power is
Wested in officers, not known to the constitution of these colonies.
A large body of troops, and a considerable armament of ships of war, have
been sent to assist in taking their money without their consent.
Expensive and oppressive offices have been multiplied, and the acts of cor-
ruption industriously practised to divide and destroy.
' The judges of the admiralty and vice-admiralty courts, are empowered to
receive their salaries and fees from the effects to be condemned by themselves.
*January 21, 1768, f January 30, 1768. # February 2, 1768.
36 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
The commissioners of the customs are empowered to break open and enter
houses, without the authority of any civil magistrate, founded on legal infor-
mation. A-
Judges of courts of common law, have been made entirely dependent on the
crown for their commissions and salaries.
A court has been established at Rhode-Island, for the purposes of taking
colonists to England to be tried. .*
Humble and reasonable petitions, from the representatives of the people, have
been frequently treated with contempt: and assemblies have been repeatedly
and arbitrarily dissolved.
From some few instances, it will sufficiently appear, on what pretences of
justice those dissolutions have been founded.
The tranquillity of the colonies having been again disturbed, as has been
mentioned by the statutes of the year 1767, the earſ of Hillsborough, secretary
of state, in a letter to governor Bernard, dated April 22, 1768, censures the
“presumption” of the house of representatives for “resolving upon a measure
of so inflammatory a nature, as that of writing to the other colonies, on the
subject of their intended representations against some late acts of parlia-
ment,” then declares, that “his majesty considers this step as evidently tending
to create unwarrantable combinations, to excite an unjustifiable opposition to
the constitutional authority of parliament:”—and afterwards adds, “It is the
“king’s pleasure, that as soon as the general court is again assembled, at the
“time prescribed by the charter, you should require of the house of representa-
“tives, in his majesty’s name, to rescind the resolution which gave birth to the
“circular letter from the speaker, and to declare their disapprobation of, and
“dissent to, that rash and hasty proceeding.”
“If the new assembly should refuse to comply with his majesty’s reasonable
4% º it is the king’s pleasure that you should immediately dissolve
44 them.”
This letter being laid before the house, and the resolution not being rescinded,
according to order, the assembly was dissolved. A letter of a similar nature
was sent to other governors to procure resolutions, approving the conduct of
the representatives of Massachusetts-Bay, to be rescinded also ; and the houses
º representatives in other colonies, refusing to comply, assemblies were dis-
solved. *
These mandates spoke a language, to which the ears of English subjects had
for several generations been strangers. The nature of assemblies implies a
power and right of deliberation; but these commands, proscribing the exercise
of judgment on the propriety of the requisitions made, left to the assemblies
only the election between dictated submission, and threatened punishment: A
punishment too, founded on no other act, than such as is deemed innocent
©V6I1 *—of agreeing in petitions for redress of grievances, that equally
affect all.
The hostile and unjustifiable invasion of the town of Boston, soon followed
these events, in the same year; though that town, the province in which it is
situated, and all the colonies, from abhorrence of a contest with their parent
state, permitted the execution, even of those statutes, against which they so
unanimously were complaining, remonstrating, and supplicating.
Administration, determined to subdue a spirit of freedom, which English
ministers should have rejoiced to cherish, entered into a monopolizing combina-
tion with the East-India company, to send to this continent vast quantities of
tea, an article on which a duty was laid by a statute, that, in a particular man-
ner, attacked the liberties of America, and which, therefore; the inhabitants of
these colonies had resolved not to import. The cargo sent to South-Carolina
was stored, and not allowed to be sold. Those sent to Philadelphia and New-
York, were not permitted to be landed. That sent to Boston was destroyed,
because governor Hutchinson would not suffer it to be returned.
Journals OF CONGRESS, 1774. 37
On the intelligence of these transactions arriving in Great Britain, the public
spirited town last mention ed, was singled out for destruction, and it was
determined the province it belongs to should partake of its fate. In the last
session of parliament, therefore, were passed the act for shutting up the port of
Boston, indemnifying the murderers of the inhabitants of Massachusetts-Bay,
and changing their chartered constitution of government. To enforce these acts,
that province is again invaded by a fleet and army:
To mention these outrageous proceedings, is sufficient to explain them. For
though it is pretended that the province of Massachusetts-Bay, has been par-
ticularly disrespectful to Great-Britain, yet, in truth, the behaviour of the
people in other colonies, has been an equal “opposition to the power assumed
by parliament.” No step, however, has been taken against any of the rest.
This artful conduct conceals several designs. It is expected that the province”
of Massachusetts-Bay will be irritated into some violent action, that may
displease the rest of the continent, or that may induce the people of Great-
Britain to approve the meditated vengeance of an imprudent and exasperated
ministry. if the unexampled pacific temper of that province shall disappoint
this part of the plan, it is hoped the other colonies will be so far intimidated,
as to desert their brethren, suffering in a common cause, and that thus disunited,
all may be subdued. *
To promote these designs, another measure has been pursued. In the ses-
sion of parliament, last mentioned, an act was passed for changing the govern-
ment of Quebec, by which act the Roman Catholic religion, instead of being
tolerated, as stipulated by the treaty of peace, is established ; and the people
there are deprived of a right to an assembly, trials by jury, and the English
laws, in .. cases, are abolished, and instead thereof the French laws are
established, in direct violation of his majesty’s promise by his royal proclama-
tion, under the faith of which many English subjects settled in that province,
and the limits of that province, are extended so as to comprehend those vast
regions, that lie adjoining to the northerly and westerly boundaries of these
COIOIlle.S.
The authors of this arbitrary arrangement flatter themselves, that the inhab-
itants, deprived of liberty, and artfully provoked against those of another religion,
will be proper instruments for assisting in the oppression of such as differ }.
them in modes of government and faith.
From the detail of facts, herein before recited, as well as from authentic in-
telligence received, it is clear beyond a doubt, that a resolution is formed, and
now carrying into execution, to extinguish the freedom of these colonies, by sub-
jecting them to a despotic government.
At this unhappy period, we have been authorized and directed to meet and
consult together, for the welfare of our common country. . We accepted theim-
ortant trust with diffidence, but have endeavoured to discharge it with integrity.
Though the state of these colonies would certainly justify other measures than we
have advised, yet weighty reasons determined us to prefer those which we have
adopted. In the first place, it appeared to us a conduct becoming the character
these colonies have ever sustained, to perform, even in the midst ºf the unnatural
distresses and imminent dangers that surround them, every act of loyalty, and
therefore, we were induced once more to offer to his majesty, the petitions of his
faithful and oppressed subjects in America. Secondly, regarding with the ten-
der affection, which we knew to be so universal among our countrymen, the peo-
ple of the kingdom, from which we derive our origin, we could not forbear to
regulate our steps by an expectation of receiving full conviction, that the colo-
nists are equally dear to them. Between these provinces and that body subsists
the social band, which we ardently wish may never be dissolved, and which
cannot be dissolved, until their minds shall become indisputably hostile, or their
inattention shall permit those, who are thus hostile, to persistin prosecuting, with
s
38. JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
*
the powers of the realm, the destructive measures already operating against the
colonists, and, in either case, shall reduce the latter to such a situation, that they
shall be compelled to renounce every regard, but that of self-preservation. Not-
withstanding the violence with which affairs have been impelled, they have not yet
reached that fatal point. We do not incline to accelerate their motion, already
alarmingly rapid ; we have chosen a method of opposition, that does not preclude
a hearty reconciliation with our fellow-citizens, on the other side of the Atlantic.
We deeply deplore the urgent necessity, that presses us to an immediate inter-
ruption of commerce, that may prove injurious to them. We trust they will acquit
us of any unkind intentions towards them, by reflecting, that we are driven by
the hands of violence, into unexperienced and unexpected public convulsions,
and that we are contending for freedom, so often contended for by our ancestors.
The people of England will soon have an opportunity of declaring their senti-
ments concerning our cause. In their piety, generosity, and good sense, we
repose high confidence ; and cannot, upon a review of past events, be persuaded,
that they, the defenders of true religion, and the asserters of the rights of man-
kind, will take part against their affectionate Protestant brethren in the colonies,
in favour of our open and their own secret enemies, whose intrigues, for seve-
ral years past, have been wholly exercised in sapping the foundations of civil
and religious liberty.
Another reason, that engaged us to prefer the commercial mode of opposition,
arose from an assurance, that the mode will prove efficacious, if it be persisted
in with fidelity and virtue; and that your conduct will be influenced by these
laudable principles, cannot be questioned. Your own salvation, and that of
your posterity, now depends upon yourselves. You have already shewn that
you entertain a proper sense of the blessings you are striving to retain.
Against the temporary inconveniencies you may suffer from a stoppage of
trade, you will weigh in the opposite balance, the endless miseries you and your
descendants must endure, from an established arbitrary power. You will not
forget the honour of your country, that must, from your behaviour, take its title
in the estimation of the world, to glory, or to shame; and you will, with the
deepest attention, reflect, that if the peaceable mode of opposition, recom-
mended by us, be broken and rendered ineffectual, as your cruel and haughty
ministerial enemies, from a contemptuous opinion of your firmness, insolently
predict will be the case, you must inevitably be reduced to chuse, either a more
dangerous contest, or a final, ruinous, and infamous submission. tº f tº
Motives thus cogent, arising from the emergency of your unhappy condition,
must excite your utmost diligence and zeal, to give all possible strength and
energy to the pacific measures calculated for your relief: But we think our-
selves bound in duty, to observe to you, that the schemes agitated against these
colonies, have been so conducted, as to render it prudent, that you should extend
your views to mournful events, and be, in all respects, prepared for every con-
tingency. Above all things, we earnestly intreat you, with devotion of spirit;
penitence of heart, and amendment of life, to humble yourselves and implore
the favour of Almighty God; and we fervently beseech his divine goodness, to
take you into his gracious protection.
Resolved, That an address be prepared to the people of Quebec, and letters
to the colonies of St. John’s, N. Georgia, East and West Florida,
who have not deputies to represent them in this Congress.
Ordered, That Mr Cushing, Mr. Lee, and Mr. Dickinson, be a committee
to prepare the above address and letters.
The address to the king being brought in, was read, and after some debate,
Ordered, That the same be re-committed, and that Mr. J. Dickinson, be
added to the committee. º
Upon motion, t e
Resolved, That the seizing, or attempting to seize, any person in America,
in order to transport such person beyond the sea, for trial of offences, commit-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 39
ed within the body of a county in America, being against law, will justify,
and ought to meet with resistance and reprisal.
SATURDAY, October 22, 1774.
The hon. Peyton Randolph, esq. being unable to attend, on account of
indisposition, the hon. Henry Middleton, esq. was chosen to supply his place,
as president.
n address from Christopher Tully was read, and ordered to lie on the table.
Ordered, That the Journal of the proceedings of the Congress, as corrected,
be sent to the press, and printed under the direction of Mr. Biddle, Mr. Dick-
inson, and the secretary.
Resolved, as the opinion of this Congress, that it will be necessary, that
another Congress should be held on the tenth day of May next, unless the
redress of grievances, which we have desired, be obtained before that time.
And we recommend, that the same be held at the city of Philadelphia, and
that all the colonies, in North-America, chuse deputies, as soon as possible,
to attend such Congress. \
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to the colonies of St. John’s,
&c. reported a draught, which was read, and being amended, the same was
approved, and is as follows:
PHILADELPHIA, October 22, 1774.
“GENTLEMEN, ,
“The present critical and truly alarming state of American affairs, having
been considered in a general Congress of deputies, from the colonies of New-
Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations,
Connecticut, New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania New-Castle, Kent, and
Sussex, on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina, and South-Carolina,
with that attention and mature deliberation, which the important nature of the
case demands, they have determined, for themselves and the colonies they re-
present, on the measures contained in the enclosed papers; which measures
they recommend to your colony to be adopted with all the earnestness, that a
well directed zeal for American liberty can prompt.
“So rapidly violent and unjust has been the late conduct of the British
administration against the colonies, that either a base and slavish submission,
under the loss of their ancient, just, and constitutional liberty, must quickly
take place, or an adequate opposition be formed.
“We pray God to take you under his protection, and to preserve the freedom
and happiness of the whole British empire.
“By order of the Congress,
“ HENRY MIDDLETON, President.”
MONDAY, October 24, 1774.
The address to the people of Quebec, being brought in, was read, and after
Some debate was re-committed,
The committee, to whom the address to the king was re-committed, reported
a draught, which was read, and ordered to be taken into consideration to-
Ill Orl'OW,
TUESDAY, October 25, 1774.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the address to his majesty, and
the same being debated by paragraphs, was, after some amendments, approved
and ordered to be engrossed.
Resolved, That the address to the king, be enclosed in a letter to the seve-
ral colony agents, in order that the same may be by them presented to his
majesty; and that the agents be requested to call in the aid of such noblemen
and gentlemen as are esteemed firm friends to American liberty.
40 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
-L-
g---
Ordered, That Mr. Lee, and Mr. Jay, prepare a letter to the agents.
Resolved, That this Congress, in their own names, and in behalf of all those
whom they represent, do present their most grateful acknowledgments to
those truly noble, honourable, and patriotic advocates of civil and religious
liberty, who have so generously and powerfully, though unsuccessfully, es-
poused and defended the cause of America, both in and out of parliament.
WEDNESDAY, October 26, 1774.
The letter to the agents, being brought in by the committee, was read, and
approved as follows:—
PHILADELPHIA, October 26, 1774.
“GENTLEMEN,
“We give you the strongest proof of our reliance on your zeal and at-
tachment to the happiness of America, and the cause of liberty, when we commit
the enclosed paper to your care.
“We desire you will deliver the petition into the hands of his majesty, and
after it has been presented, we wish it may be made public through the press,
together with the list of grievances. And as we hope for great assistance from
the spirit, virtue, and justice of the nation, it is our earnest desire, that the most
effectual care be taken, as early as possible, to furnish the trading cities, and
manufacturing towns, throughout the united kingdom, with our memorial to
the people of Great Britain. /
“We doubt not, but your good sense and discernment, will lead you to avail
yourselves of every assistance, that may be derived from the advice and friend-
ship of all great and good men who may incline to aid the cause of liberty
and mankind. gº ºr
“The gratitude of America, expressed in the enclosed vote of thanks, we
desire may be conveyed to the deserving objects of it, in the manner you think
will be most acceptable to them.
“It is proposed, that another Congress be held on the tenth of May next, at
this place, but in the mean time, we beg the favour of you, gentlemen, to
transmit to the speakers of the several assemblies, the earliest information of
the most authentic accounts you can collect, of all such conduct and designs
of ministry, or parliament, as it may concern America to know.
* “We are, with unſeigned esteem and regard, Gentlemen, &c.
“By order and in behalf of the Congress,
“ HENRY MIDDLETON, President.”
To Paul Wentworth, esq. Thomas Life, esq.
I)octor Benj. Franklin, Edmund Burke, esq.
William Bollen, esq. Charles Garth, esq.
IDoctor Arthur Lee.
The committee, to whom the 'address to the inhabitants of Quebec was re-
committed, reported a draught, which was read, and being debated by para-
graphs and amended, was approved, and is as follows:
To the Inhabitants of the Province of Quebec.
FRIENDS AND FELLOW-SUBJECTS,
WE, the delegates of the colonies of New Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay,
Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations, Connecticut, New-York, New-
Jersey, Pennsylvania, the counties of New-Castle, Kent, and Sussex, on Dela-
ware, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina, and South-Carolina, deputed by the
inhabitants of the said colonies, to represent them in a general Congress, at
Philadelphia, in the province of Pennsylvania, to consult together, concerning
the best methods to obtain redress of our afflicting grievances; having ac-
cordingly assembled, and taken into our most serious consideration, the state
of public affairs on this continent, have thought proper to address your province,
as a member therein deeply interested.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 41
º-º-º-º-º: –-º-
When the fortune of war, after a gallant and glorious resistance, had incor-
porated you with the body of English subjects, we rejoiced in the truly valua-
ble addition, both on our own and your account; expecting, as courage and
generosity are naturally united, our brave enemies would become our hearty
friends, and that the divine Being would bless to you the dispensations of his
over-ruling providence, by securing to you, and your latest posterity, the in-
estimable advantages of a free English constitution of government, which it is
the privilege of all English subjects to enjoy.
These hopes were confirmed by the king’s proclamation, issued in the
year 1763, plighting the public faith for your full enjoyment of those
advantages.
Little did we imagine that any succeeding ministers would so audaciously
and cruelly abuse the royal authority, as to withhold from you the fruition of
theirrevocable rights, to which you were thus justly entitled.
But since we have lived to see the unexpected time, when ministers of this
flagitious temper, have dared to violate the most sacred compacts and obliga-
tions, and as you, educated under another form of government, have artfully
been kept from discovering the unspeakable worth of that form you are now
undoubtedly entitled to, we esteem it our duty, for the weighty reasons here-
inafter mentioned, to explain to you some of its most important branches.
“In every human society,” says the celebrated Marquis Beccaria, “there
is an effort continually tending to confer on one part the height of power and
happiness, and to reduce the other to the extreme of weakness and misery.
The intent of good laws is to oppose this effort, and to diffuse their influence
universally and equally.”
Rulers stimulated by this pernicious “effort,” and subjects animated by the
just “intent of opposing good laws against it,” have occasioned that vast varie-
ty of events, that fill the histories of so many nations. All these histories
demonstrate the truth of this simple position, that to live by the will of one
man, or set of men, is the production of misery to all men.
On the solid foundation of this principle, Englishmen reared up the fabrick
of their constitution with such a strength, as for ages to defy time, tyranny,
treachery, internal and foreign wars: And, as an illustrious authors of your
nation, hereafter mentioned, observes, “They gave the people of their colo-
nies, the form of their own government, and this government carrying
|Prosperity along with it, they have grown great nations in the forests they
Were sent to inhabit.”
In this form, the first grand right, is that of the people, having a share in
their own government, by their representatives chosen by themselves, and in
consequence of being ruled by laws which they themselves approve, not by
edicts of men, over whom they have no controul. This is a bulwark surround-
ing and defending their property, so that no portions of it can legally be
taken from them, but with their own full and free consent, when they in their
judgment deem it just and necessary to give them for public services, and
precisely direct the easiest, cheapest, and most equal methods in which they
shall be collected.
The influence of this right extends still farther. If money is wanted by
rulers, who have in any manner oppressed the people, they may retain it, until
their grievances are redressed; and thus peaceably procure relief, without
trusting to despised petitions, or disturbing the public tranquillity.
..The next great right is that of trial by jury. This provides, that neither
life, liberty, nor property, can be taken from the possessor, until twelve of his
unexceptionable countrymen and peers of his vicinage, who from that neigh-
bourhood may reasonably be supposed to be acquainted with his character, and
* Montesquieu.
Wol, I, 6
42. JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
wº
the characters of the witnesses, upon a fair trial, and full enquiry, face to face,
in open court, before as many of the people as chuse to attend, shall pass their
sentence upon oath against him; a sentence that cannot injure him, without
injuring their own reputation, and probably their interest also; as the question
may turn on points, that, in some degree, concern the general welfare; and, if
it does not, their verdict may form a precedent, that, on a similar trial of their
own, may militate against themselves.
Another right relates merely to the liberty of the person. If a subject is
seized and imprisoned, though by order of government, he may, by virtue of
this right, immediately obtain a writ, termed a habeas corpus, from a judge,
whose sworn duty it is to grant it, and thereupon procure any illegal restraint
to be quickly enquired into, and redressed.
A fourth right, is that of holding lands by the tenure of easy rents, and not
by º and oppressive services, frequently forcing the possessors from their
families, and their business, to perform what ought to be done, in all well re-
gulated states, by men hired for the purpose.
The last right we shall mention, regards the freedom of the press. The
*: of this consists, besides the advancement of truth, science, morality,
and arts in general, in its diffusion of liberal sentiments on the administration
of government, its ready communication of thoughts between subjects, and its
consequential promotion of union among them, whereby oppressive officers are
shamed or intimidated, into more honourable and just modes of conducting
affairs.
These are the invaluable rights, that form a considerable part of our mild
system of government; that, sending its equitable energy through all ranks
and classes of men, defends the poor from the rich, the weak from the power-
ful, the industrious from the rapacious, the peaceable from the violent, the
tenants from the lords, and all from their superiors.
These are the rights, without which a people cannot be free and happy, and
under the protecting and encouraging influence of which, these colonies have
hitherto so amazingly flourished and increased. ' These are the rights, a profli-
gate ministry are now striving, by force of arms, to ravish from us, and which
we are, with one mind, resolved never to resign but with our lives.
These are the rights you are entitled to, and ought, at this moment, in per-
fection, to exercise. And what is offered to you by the late act of parliament
in their place P Liberty of conscience in your religion? No. God gave it to
you; and the temporal powers with which you have been and are connected,
firmly stipulated for your enjoyment of it. If laws, divine and human, could
secure it against the despotic caprices of wicked men, it was secured before.
Are the French laws in civil cases restored P. It seems so. But observe the
cautious kindness of the ministers, who pretend to be your benefactors. The
words of the statute are—that those “laws shall be the rule, until they shall
“be varied or altered by any ordinances of the governor and council.” Is the
“certainty and lenity of the criminal law of England and its benefits and ad-
“vantages,” commended in the said statute, and said to “have been sensibly
felt by you,” secured to you and your descendants? No. They too are sub-
jected to arbitrary “alterations” by the governor and council; and a power is
expressly reserved of appointing “such courts of criminal, civil, and ecclesi-
astical jurisdiction, as shall be thought proper.” Such is the precarious tenure
of mere will, by which you hold your lives and religion... The crown and its
ministers are empowered, as far as they could be by parliament, to establish
even the inquisition itself among you. Have you an assembly composed of
worthy men, elected by yourselves, and in whom you can confide, to make laws
for you, to watch over your welfare, and to direct in what quantity, and in
what manner, your money shall be taken from you? No. The power of
making laws for you is lodged in the governor and council, all of them depend-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 43
—x-
AA —º-
ent upon, and removeable at, the pleasure of a minister. Besides, another late
statute, made without your consent, has subjected you to the Impositions of
excise; the horror of all free states; thus wresting your property from you by
the most odious of taxes, and laying open to insolent tax-gatherers, houses,
the scenes of domestic peace and comfort, and called the castles of English
subjects in the books of their law. And in the very act for altering your go-
vernment, and intended to flatter you, you are not authorized to “assess, levy,
or apply any rates and taxes, but for the inferior purposes of making roads,
and erecting and repairing public buildings, or for other local conveniences,
within your respective towns and districts.” Why this degrading distinction;
Ought not the property, honestly acquired by Canadians, to be held as sacred
as that of Englishmen? Have not Canadians sense enough to attend to any
other public affairs, than gathering stones from one place, and piling them up
in another? Unhappy people!, who are not only injured, but insulted. Nay
more!—With such a superlative contempt of your understanding and spirit,
has an insolent ministry presumed to think of you, our respectable fellow-
subjects, according to the information we have received, as firmly to persuade
themselves that your gratitude, for the injuries and insults they have recently
offered to you, will engage you to take up arms, and render yourselves the
ridicule and detestation of the world, by becoming tools, in their hands, to
assist them in taking that freedom from us, which they have treacherously de-
nied to you; the unavoidable consequence of which attempt, if successful,
would be the extinction of all hopes of you or your posterity being ever re-
stored to freedom: For idiocy itself cannot believe, that, when their drudgery
is performed, they will treat you with less cruelty than they have us, who are
of the same blood with themselves.
What would your countryman, the immortal Montesquieu, have said to such
a plan of domination, as has been framed for you ? Hear his words, with an
intenseness of thought suited to the importance of the subject.—“In a free
state, every man, who is supposed a free agent, ought to be concerned in his
own government: Therefore the legislative should reside in the whole body of
the people, or their representatives.”—“The political liberty of the subject is
a tranquillity of mind, arising from the opinion each person has of his safety.
In order to have this liberty, it is requisite the government be so constituted,
as that one man need not be afraid of another. When the power of making
laws and the power of executing them, are united in the same person, or in the
same body of magistrates, there can be no liberty; because apprehensions
may arise, lest the same monarch or senate, should enact tyrannical laws, to
execute them in a tyrannical manner.”
“The power of judging should be exercised by persons taken from the body
of the people, at certain times of the year, and pursuant to a form and manner
prescribed by law: . There is no liberty, if the power of judging be not sepa-
rated from the legislative and executive powers.”
“Military men belong to a profession, which may be useful, but is often
dangerous.”—“The enjoyment of liberty, and even its supportand preservation,
$9nsists in every man’s being allowed to speak his thoughts, and lay open
his sentiments.”
Apply these decisive maxims, sanctified by the authority of a name which
all Europe reveres, to your own state. You have a governor, it may be urged,
Wested with the executive powers, or the powers of administration: In him,
and in your council, is lodged the power of making laws. You have judges,
whº are to decide every cause affecting your lives, Tiberty or property. Here
is, indeed, an appearance of the several powers being ºf and distributed
into different hands, for checks, one upon another; the only effectual mode
*Yer invented by the wit of men, to promote their freedom and prosperity. But
scorning to be illuded by a tinselled outside, and exerting the natural sagacity
44 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
of Frenchmen, examine the specious device, and you will find it, to use an
expression of holy writ, “a . sepulchre,” for burying your lives, liberty
and property.
Your judges, and your legislative council, as it is called, are dependent on
your governor, and he is dependent on the servant of the crown, in Great-Bri-
tain. The legislative, executive and judging powers are all moved by the nods
of a minister. Privileges and immunities last no longer than his smiles. When
he frowns, their feeble forms dissolve. Such a treacherous ingenuity has been
exerted in drawing up the code lately offered you, that every sentence, begin-
ning with a benevolent pretension, concludes with a destructive power; and the
substance of the whole, divested of its smooth words, is—that the crown and
its ministers shall be as absolute throughout your extended province, as the
despots of Asia or Africa. What can protect your property from taxing edicts,
and the rapacity of necessitous and cruel masters ? Your persons from lettres
de cachet, goals, dungeons, and oppressive services? your lives, and general
liberty from arbitrary and unfeeling rulers ? We defy you, casting your view
upon every side, to discover a single circumstance, promising from any quarter
the faintest hope of liberty to you, or your posterity, but from an entire adop-
tion into the union of these colonies.
What advice would the truly great man before-mentioned, that advocate
of freedom and humanity, give you, was he now living, and knew that we,
your numerous and powerful neighbours, animated by a just love of our in-
vaded rights, and united by the indissoluble bands of affection and interest,
called upon you, by every obligation of regard for yourselves and your children,
as we now do, to join usin our righteous contest, to make common cause with
us therein, and take a noble chance for emerging from a humiliating subjection
under governors, intendants and military tyrants, into the firm rank and con-
dition of English freemen, whose custom it is, derived from their ancestors, to
make those tremble, who dare to think of making them miserable P
Would not this be the purport of his address? “Seize the opportunity
presented to you by Providence itself. You have been conquered into liberty,
if you act as you ought. This work is not of man. You are a small people,
compared to those who, with open arms, invite you into a fellowship. A mo-
ment’s reflection should convince you which will be most for your interest and
happiness, to have all the rest of North-America your unalterable friends, or
your inveterate enemies. The injuries of Boston have roused and associated
every colony, from Nova-Scotia to Georgia. Your province is the only link
wanting, to complete the bright and strong chain of union. Nature has joined
your country to theirs. Do you join your political interests. For their own
sakes they never will desert or betray you." Be assured, that the happiness of
a people inevitably depends on their liberty, and their spirit to assert it. The
value and extent of the advantages tendered to you are immense. Heaven
grant you may not discover them to be blessings after they have bid you an
eternal adieu.” g
We are too well acquainted with the liberality of sentiment distinguishing
your nation, to imagine, that difference of religion will prejudice you against
a hearty amity with us. You know that the transcendant nature of freedom
elevates those who unite in her cause, above all such low-minded infirmities.
The Swiss cantons furnish a memorable proof of this truth. Their union is
composed of Roman Catholic and Protestant states, living in the utmost con-
cord and peace with one another, and thereby enabled, ever since they bravely
. their freedom, to defy and defeat every tyrant that has invaded
them.
Should there be any among you, as there generally are in all societies, who
prefer the favours of ministers, and their own private interests, to the welfare
of their country, the temper of such selfish persons will render them incredi.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 45
**——
bly active in "...'. all public-spirited measures, from an expectation of
being well rewarded for their sordid industry, by their superiors; but we doubt
not you will be upon your guard against such men, and not sacrifice the
liberty and happiness of the whole Canadian people and their posterity, to
gratify the avarice and ambition of individuals. º
We do not ask you, by this address, to commence acts of hostility against
the government of our common sovereign. We . invite you to consult
our own glory and welfare, and not to suffer yourselves to be inveigled or
intimidated by infamous ministers, so far as to become the instruments of their
cruelty and despotism ; but to unite with us in one social compact, formed on
the generous principles of equal liberty, and cemented by such an exchange
of beneficial and endearing offices as to render it perpetual. In order to com-
lete this highly desirable union, we submit it to your consideration, whether
it may not be expedient for you to meet together, in your several towns and
districts, and elect deputies, who afterwards meeting in a provincial Congress,
may chuse delegates, to represent your province in the Continental Congress,
to be held at Philadelphia, on the tenth day of May, 1775.
In this present Congress, beginning on the fifth of the last month, and con-
tinued to this day, it has been with universal pleasure, and an unanimous vote,
resolved, that we should consider the violation of your rights, by the act for
altering the government of your province, as a violation of our own, and
that you should be invited to accede to our confederation, which has no other
objects than the perfect security of the natural and civil rights of all the con-
stituent members, according to their respective circumstances, and the preser-
vation of a happy, and lasting connexion with Great-Britain, on the salutary
and constitutional principles herein before-mentioned. For effecting these
purposes, we have addressed an humble and loyal petition to his majesty,
raying relief of our and your grievances ; and have associated to stop all
importations from Great-Britain and Ireland, after the first day of December,
and all exportations to those kingdoms and the West-Indies, after the tenth
day of next September ; unless the said grievances are redressed.
That Almighty God may incline your minds to approve our equitable and
necessary measures, to add yourselves to us, to put your fate, whenever you
suffer injuries which you are determined to oppose, not on the small influence
of your single province, but on the consolidated powers of North-America;
and may grant to our joint exertions, an event as happy as our cause is just,
is º: fervent prayer of us, your sincere and affectionate friends and fellow-
subjects.
By order of the Congress.
HENRY MIDDLETON, President.
º Resolved, That the address of the Congress to the people of Quebec, be
signed by the President, and that the delegates of the province of Pennsylvania
superintend the translating, printing, publishing, and dispersing it : And it is
recommended by the Congress to the delegates of New-Hampshire, Massachu-
º, and New-York, to assist in, and forward the dispersion of, the said
à ClClteSS.
. Twº copies of the address to the king, being engrossed and compared, were
signed at the table by all the members.
Tºsolved, That the thanks of this Congress be given to the honorable House
of Representatives of the colony of Pennsylvania, for their politeness to this
Sºngress; and that the delegates fºr this colony be a committee to communicate
this resolution to the said honorable House.
A true copy, CHARLES THOMSON, Secretary.
The Congress then dissolved itself. t
46 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
J1 letter from general Gage to Peyton Randolph, esquire.
BOSTON, October 20th, 1774,
SIR,
Representations should be made with candour, and matters stated exact-
ly as they stand. People would be led to believe, from your letter to me of
the 10th instant, that works were raised against the town of Boston, private
property invaded, the soldiers suffered to insult the inhabitants, and the com-
munication between the town and country, shut up and molested.
Nothing can be farther from the true situation of this place than the above
state. There is not a single gun pointed against the town, no man’s property
has been seized or hurt, except the king’s, by the people’s destroying straw,
bricks, &c. bought for his service. No troops have given less cause for com.
plaint, and greater care was never taken to prevent it; and such care and
attention was never more necessary from the insults and provocations daily
given to both officers and soldiers. The communication between the town
and country has been always free and unmolested, and is so still.
Two works of earth have been raised at some distance from the town, wide
off the road, and guns put in them. The remainder of old works, going out
of the town, have been strengthened, and guns placed there likewise. People
will think differently, whether the hostile preparation throughout the country,
and the menaces of blood and slaughter, made this necessary ; but I am to do
my duty. *-
º º me pleasure that you are endeavouring at a cordial reconciliation
with the mother country, which, from what has transpired, I have despaired
of Nobody wishes better success to such measures than myself. I have
endeavoured to be a mediator, if I could establish a foundation to work upon,
and have strongly urged it to people here to J. for the tea, and send a proper
memorial to the king, which would be a good beginning on their side, and give
their friends the opportunity they seek to move in their support.
I do not believe that menaces, and unfriendly proceedings, will have the
effect which too many conceive. The spirit of the British nation was high
when I left England, and such measures will not abate it. But I should hope
that decency and moderation here, would create the same disposition at home;
and I ardently wish that the common enemies to both countries may see, to
their disappointment, that these disputes, between the mother-country and the
colonies, º terminated like the quarrels of lovers, and increased the affec-
tion which they ought to bear to each other.
I am, sir, your most obedient himble servant,
THOMAS GAGE.
THE PETITION OF congress.
To the king’s JMost Eaccellent JMajesty.
Most GRACIous sovePEIGN,
We, your majesty’s faithful subjects, of the colonies of New-Hampshire,
Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations, Connecticut,
New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, the counties of New-Castle, Kent, and
Sussex, on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina, and South-Carolina,
in behalf of ourselves and the inhabitants of these colonies, who have deputed
us to represent them in general Congress, by this our humble petition, beg leave
o lay our grievances before the throne.
A standing army has been kept in these colonies, ever since the conclu-
sion of the late war, without the consent of our assemblies; and this army,
with a considerable naval armament, has been employed to enforce the collec-
tion of taxes.
The authority of the commander in chief, and under him the brigadier-
general has, intime of peace, been rendered supreme in all the civil governments
in America.
|
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 47
The commander in chief of all your majesty’s forces in North-America,
has, in time of peace, been appointed governor of a colony.
The charges of usual offices have been greatly increased; and, new, expen-
sive, and oppressive offices have been multiplied.
The judges of admiralty and vice-admiralty courts, are empowered to receive
their salaries and fees from the effects condemned by themselves.
The officers of the customs are empowered to break open and enter houses,
without the authority of any civil magistrate, founded on legal information.
The judges of courts of common law have been made entirely dependent on
one part of the legislature for their salaries, as well as for the duration of
their commissions. *
Counsellors, holding their commissions during pleasure, exercise legislative
authority.
tº. and reasonable petitions, from the representatives of the people,
have been fruitless.
The agents of the people have been discountenanced, and governors have
been instructed to prevent the payment of the salaries.
Assemblies have been repeatedly and injuriously dissolved.
Commerce has been burthened with many useless and oppressive restrictions.
By several acts of parliament made in the fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and
eighth years of your majesty’s reign, duties are imposed on us, for the purpose of
raising a revenue; and the powers of admiralty and vice-admiralty courts are
extended beyond their ancient limits, whereby our Fº is taken from us
without our consent, the trial by jury, in many civil cases, is abolished, enor-
mous forfeitures are incurred for slight offences, vexatious informers are
exempted from paying damages, to which they are justly liable, and oppressive
security is required from owners before they are allowed to defend their right.
Both houses of parliament have resolved, that colonists may be tried in
England for offences alleged to have been committed in America, by virtue
of a statute passed in the thirty-fifth year of Henry the eighth ; and, in con-
sequence thereof, attempts have been made to enforce that statute.
A statute was passed in the twelfth year of your majesty’s reign, directing,
that persons charged with committing any offence therein described, in any
place out of the realm, may be indicted and tried for the same, in any shire or
county within the realm, whereby inhabitants of these colonies may, in sundry
cases, by that statute made capital, be deprived of a trial by their peers of the
W1CIIlage.
In ă. last session of parliament, an act was passed for blocking up the
harbour of Boston; another empowering the governor of the Massachusetts-
Bay, to send persons indicted for murder in that province, to another colony,
or, even to Great-Britain for trial, whereby such offenders may escape legal
punishment; a third for altering the chartered constitution of government in
that province; and a fourth for extending the limits of Quebec, abolishing the
English and restoring the French laws, whereby great numbers of British
Frenchmen are subjected to the latter, and establishing an absolute government
and the Roman Catholic religion throughout those vast regions, that border on
the westerly and northerly boundaries of the free, Protestant, English settle-
ments; and a fifth, for the better providing suitable quarters for officers and
soldiers, in his majesty’s service, in North-America.
To a sovereign, who glories in the name of Britain, the bare recital of these
acts must, we presume, justify the loyal subjects, who fly to the foot of his
throne, and implore his dº for protection against them.
From this destructive system of colony administration, adopted since the
conclusion of the last war, have flowed those distresses, dangers, fears, and
jealousies, that overwhelm your majesty's dutiful colonists with afflictions
and we defy our most subtle and inveterate enemies to trace the unhappy
A8 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774.
*
differences between Great-Britain and these colonies, from an earlier period,
or from other causes than we have assigned. Had they proceeded on our part
from a restless levity of temper, unjust impulses of ambition, or artful sug-
gestions of seditious persons, we should merit the opprobrious terms fre-
quently bestowed upon us by those we revere. But so far from promoting
innovations, we have only opposed them; and can be charged with no offence,
unless it be one to receive injuries, and be sensible of them.
Had our Creator been pleased to give us existence in a land of slavery, the
sense of our condition might have been mitigated by ignorance and habit. But,
thanks be to his adorable goodness, we were born the heirs of freedom, and
ever enjoyed our right under the auspices of your royal ancestors, whose
family was seated on the British throne, to rescue and secure a pious and gallant
nation from the popery and despotism of a superstitious and inexorable tyrant.
Your majesty, we are confident, justly rejoices, that your title to the crown is
thus founded on the title of your people to liberty; and, therefore, we doubt
not but your royal wisdom must approve the sensibility, that teaches your
subjects anxiously to guard the blessing, they received from divine Providence,
and thereby to prove the performance of that compact, which elevated the
illustrious house of Brunswick to the imperial dignity it now possesses.
The apprehension of being degraded into a state of servitude, from the
pre-eminent rank of English freemen, while our minds retain the strongest love
of liberty, and clearly foresee the miseries preparing for us and our posterity,
excites emotions in our breasts, which though we cannot describe, we should
not wish to conceal. Feeling as men and thinking as subjects in the manner
we do, silence would be disloyalty. By giving this faithful information, we
do all in our power to promote the great object of your royal cares, the tran-
quillity of your government, and the welfare of your people.
Duty to your majesty, and regard for the preservation of ourselves and our
posterity, the primary obligations of nature and society, command us to entreat
your royal attention; and as your majesty enjoys the signal distinction of
reigning over freemen, we apprehend the language of freemen cannot be dis-
pleasing. Your royal indignation, we hope, will rather fall on those designing
and dangerous men, who daringly interposing themselves between your royal
person and your faithful subjects, and for several years past incessantly em-
ployed to dissolve the bonds of society, by abusing your majesty's authority,
misrepresenting your American subjects, and prosecuting the most desperate
and irritating projects of oppression, have at length compelled us, by the force
of accumulated injuries, too severe to be any longer tolerable, to disturb your
majesty’s repose by our complaints.
These sentiments are extorted from hearts, that much more willingly would
bleed in your majesty’s service. Yet so greatly have we been misrepresented,
that a necessity has been alleged of taking our property from us, without our
consent, “to defray the charge of the administration of justice, the support of
civil government, and the defence, protection and security of the colonies.”
But we beg leave to assure your majesty, that such provision has been, and will
be made for defraying the two first articles, as has been and shall be judged,
by the legislatures of the several colonies, just and suitable to their respective
circumstances: and, for the defence, protection, and security of the colonies,
their militias, if properly regulated, as they earnestly desire may immediately
be done, would be fully sufficient, at least in times of peace ; and, in case of
war, your faithful colonists will be ready and willing, as they ever have been,
when constitutionally required, to demonstrate their loyalty to your majesty,
by exerting their most strenuous efforts in granting supplies and raising forces.
Yielding to no British subjects in affectionate attachment to your majesty’s
erson, family, and government; we too dearly prize the privilege of express-
ing that attachment by those proofs, that are honorable to the prince who
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1774. 49
receives them, and to the people who give them, ever to resign it to any body
of men upon earth. -
Had we been permitted to enjoy, in quiet, the inheritance left us by our
fore-fathers, we should, at this time, have been peaceably, cheerfully, and
usefully employed in recommending ourselves, by every testimony of devotion,
to your majesty, and of veneration to the state, from which we derive our origin.
But though now exposed to unexpected and unnatural scenes of distress by a
contention with that nation, in whose parental guidance on all important af-
fairs, we have hitherto, with filial reverence, constantly trusted, and therefore
can derive no instruction in our present unhappy and perplexing circumstances
from any former experience; yet, we doubt not, the purity # our intention,
and the integrity of our conduct, will justify us at that grand tribunal, before
which all mankind must submit to judgment.
We ask but for peace, liberty, and safety. We wish not a diminution of
the prerogative, nor do we solicit the grant of any new right in our favour.
Your ...i authority over us, and our connexion with Great Britain, we shall
always carefully and zealously endeavour to support and maintain.
Filled with sentiments of duty to your majesty, and of affection to our
parent state, deeply impressed by our education, and strongly confirmed by our
reason, and anxious to evince the sincerity of these dispositions, we present
this petition only to obtain redress of grievances, and relief from fears and
jealousies, occasioned by the system of statutes and regulations adopted since
the close of the late war, for raising a revenue in America—extending the
owers of courts of admiralty and vice-admiralty—trying persons in Great-
}. for offences alleged to have been committed in America—affecting the
province of Massachusetts-Bay—and altering the government and extending
the limits of Quebec: by the abolition of which system, the harmony between
Great-Britain'and these colonies, so necessary to the happiness of both, and so
ardently desired by the latter, and the usual intercourses will be immediately
restored. In the magnanimity and justice of your majesty and parliament, we
confide for a redress of our other grievances, trusting, that, when the causes of
our apprehensions are removed, our future conduct will prove us not unworthy
of the regard wé have been accustomed, in our happier days, to enjoy. For,
appealing to that Being who searches, thoroughly, the hearts of his creatures,
we solemnly profess, that our councils have been influenced by no other mo-
tive, than a dread of impending destruction.
Permit us, then, most gracious sovereign, in the name of all your faithful
people in America, with the utmost humility, to implore you, for the honor of
Almighty God, whose pure religion our enemies are undermining; for your
glory, which can be advanced only by rendering your subjects happy, and
keeping them united ; for the interests of your family depending on an ad-
herence to the principles that enthroned it; for the safety and welfare of
your kingdoms and dominions, threatened with almost unavoidable dangers
and distresses, that your majesty, as the loving father of your whole people,
connected by the same bonds of law, loyalty, faith, and blood, though dwelling
in various countries, will not suffer the transcendent relation formed by these
ties to be farther violated, in uncertain expectation of effects, that, if attained,
never can compensate for the calamities through which they must be gained.
...We, therefore, most earnestly beseech your majesty, that your royal autho-
rity and interposition may be used for our relief, and that a gracious answer
may be given to this petition.
That your majesty may enjoy every felicity through a long and glorious
reign, over loyal and happy subjects, and that your descendents may inherit
our prosperity and dominions till time shall be no mere, is, and always will
e, our sincere and fervent prayer.
N VoI. I. * * :
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS.
i 1775.
-*—
WEDNESDAY, May 10, 1775.
A number of delegates from the colonies of New-Hampshire, Massachu-
setts-Bay, Connecticut, New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware
Counties, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina, and South-Carolina, agreeable
to their appointment and orders, received from their respective colonies,
met at pi. and being convened in the state-house, proceeded to the
choice of a president; when,
Upon motion, The hon. Peyton Randolph was unanimously chosen
president.
After the president was seated,
Mr. Charles Thomson was unanimously chosen secretary.
Andrew M'Neare was also chosen door-keeper, and William Shed,
messenger.
.#greed, That the rev. Mr. Duche be requested to open the Congress with
rayers to-morrow morning; and that Mr. Willing, Mr. Sullivan, and Mr.
land, be a committee to wait on Mr. Duche, and acquaint him with the re-
quest of the Congress. '
Adjourned till to-morrow, at 11 o’clock.
THURSDAY, JMay 11, 1775, A. M.
Agreeable to the order of yesterday, the Congress was opened with prayers,
by the rev., Mr. Duche. After prayers, the Congress, according to adjourn-
ment, proceeded to business.
The delegates from the several colonies, produced their respective creden-
tials, which were read and approved, as follows: *
NEW-HAMPSIIIRE,
At the convention of deputies, appointed by the several towns in the pro-
vince aforesaid, held at Exeter, on the 25th day of January, 1775,
The hon. John WENTwo RTII, esq. in the chair.
Voted, That John Sullivan and John Langdon, esqrs. be delegated to repre-
sent this province, in the Continental Congress, proposed to be held at
Philadelphia, on the tenth day of May next, and that . and each of them,
in the absence of the other, have full and ample power, in behalf of this province,
to consent and agree to all measures, which said Congress shall deem neces-
sary, to obtain redress of American grievances.
True copy attested,
*
MASHECK WEARE, Clerk to the Convention.
*ºº-
PRovince of THE MAssachusetts-BAY, IN PROvINCIAL CoNGRESS, CAMBRIDGE,
Dec. 5, 1774. \ i\
v. Resolved, That the proceedings of the American Continental Congress, held
at Philadelphia, on the 5th day of September last, and reported by the honor.
able delegates from this colony, have, with the deliberation, due to their high
importance, been considered by us; and the American bill of rights, therein
contained, appears to be formed with the greatest ability and judgment, to be
founded on the immutable laws of nature and reason, the principles of the
J.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 5]
English constitution, and respective charters and constitutions of the colonies,
and to be worthy of their most vigorous support, as essentially necessary to
liberty; likewise the ruinous and iniquitous measures, which, in violation of
these rights, at present convulse and threaten destruction to America, appear
to be clearly pointed out, and judicious plans adopted for defeating them.
Resolved, That the most grateful acknowledgments are due to the truly
honorable and patriotic members of the Continental Congress, for their wise
and able exertions in the cause of American liberty; and this Congress, in
their own names, and in behalf of this colony, do hereby, with the utmost
sincerity, express the same.
Resolved, "That the hon. John Hancock, the hon. Thomas Cushing, esqrs.
Mr. Samuel Adams, John Adams, and Robert Treat Paine, esqrs. or any three
of them, be, and they are hereby appointed and authorized to represent this
colony, on the tenth of May next, or sooner if necessary, at the American
Congress, to be held at Philadelphia, with full power, with the delegates from
the other American colonies, to concert, agree upon, direct and order such
further measures, as shall to them appear to be best calculated for the recovery
and establishment of American rights and liberties, and for restoring harmony
between Great-Britain and the colonies.
A true copy of record,
BENJAMIN LINCOLN, Secretary.
*E*@* -
IN PRov1NCIAL Cong REss, CAMBRIDGE, February 6, 1775.
Resolved, That the hon. John Hancock, the hon. Thomas Cushing, esqrs.
Mr. Samuel Adams, John Adams, and Robert Treat Paine, esqrs. appointed
by the last provincial Congress to represent this colony, on the tenth of May
next, or sooner if necessary, at the American Congress, to be held at Philadel-
hia, be, and they are hereby authorized and empowered, with the delegates
from the other American colonies, to adjourn from time to time, and place to
}. as shall be judged necessary, and to continue in being, as delegates
i. this colony, until the thirty-first day of December next ensuing, and no
©119°CI",
§ A true copy ef record,
BENJAMIN LINCOLN, Secretary.
*º-ºº-e
IN THE Hous E of REPRESENTATIVEs of THE colony of CoNNECTICUT.
JW'ovember 3, A. D. 1774.
This house proceeded to nominate, chuse, and appoint delegates, to attend the
general Congress, to be holden at Philadelphia, on the tenth day of May next;
and made choice of the honorable Eliphalet Dyer, honorable Roger Sher-
man, Silas Deane, * Titus Hosmer, and * Jonathan Sturgess, esqrs. to be their
delegates, any three of whom are authorized and empowered to attend said
Congress, in behalf of this colony, to join, consult and advise with the dele-
gates' of the other colonies in British America, on proper measures for ad-
vancing the best good of the colonies.
WILLIAM WILLIAMS, Speaker.
A true copy, extracted from the journals of the house.
Attested, RICHARD LAW, Clerk.
*º-Gº-
At a provincial convention formed of deputies from the city and county of
New-York, the city and county of Albany, and the counties of Dutchess,
Ulster, Orange, West-Chester, King's, and Suffolk, held at the city of New-
York, the 22d day of April, 1775, for the purpose of appointing delegates
to represent the colony of New-York, in the next Continental Congress, to be
5.2 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
~
held at Philadelphia, on the tenth of May next, Philip Livingston, James
Duane, John Alsop, * John Jay, Simon Boerum, William Floyd, * Henry
Wisner, * Philip Schuyler, * George Clinton, Lewis Morris, * Francis Lewis,
and * Robert R. Livingston, jun. esqrs. were unanimously elected delegates,
to represent this colony at such Congress, with full power to them, or any
five of them, to meet the delegates from the other tºº, and to concert
and determine upon such measures as shall be judged most effectual for the
preservation and re-establishment of American rights and privileges, and for
the restoration of harmony between Great-Britain and the colonies.
Signed, Leonard Lispenard, Isaac Roosevelt, Abraham Walton, Alexander
MºDougall, and twenty-four others. ...”
We, the subscribers, do, in behalf of ourselves, and those free-holders of
Queen’s county, at whose request we attended the convention, signify our
assent to, and approbation of, the above delegation. *
Signed, John Fulman, Zebulon Williams, Jacob Blackwell, Joseph Robinson.
* ><> ºn-
NEW-JERSEY.
IN AssFMBLY, PERTH-AMBoy, Tuesday, January 24, 1775.
Resolved unanimously, That James Kinsey, Stephen Crane, William Liv-
ingston, John De Hart, and Richard Smith, esqrs, or any three of them, be,
and they are hereby appointed to attend the Continental Congress of the colo-
nies, intended to be held at the city of Philadelphia, in May next, or at any
other time and place; and that they report their proceedings to the next session
of general assembly.
A true copy from the journals,
RICHARD SMITH, Clerk of the flssembly.
*ºº ºm- }
PENNSYLVANIA.
IN Assemi BLY, December 15, 1774, A. J.M.
Upon motion,
Resolved, JW. C. D. That the honorable Edward Biddle, John Dickinson,
'l'homas Mifflin, Charles Humphreys, John Morton, and George Ross, esqrs.
be, and they are hereby appointed deputies on the part of this province, to
attend the general Congress, proposed to be held at the city of Philadelphia,
on the tenth day of May next; and that they or any four of them do meet the
said Congress accordingly, unless the present grievances of the American
colonies shall before that time be redressed. t
Extract from the journals,
CHARLES MOORE, Clerk of the Assembly.
IN Assembly, JMay 6, 1775, J. JM.
Resolved, JW. C. D. That Benjamin Franklin, the honorable Thomas Will-
ing, and * James Wilson, esqrs. be, and they are hereby added to the deputies
appointed by this house, to attend the Continental Congress, expected to meet
the tenth instant, in this city. S W
Extract from the journals,
CHARLES MOORE, Clerk of the Assembly.
*ººm-
\ LOWER COUNTIES ON DELAWARE. \
- IN AssFMBLY, Thursday, JMarch 16, 1775, J. JM.
On motion, º
Itesolved, JM C. D. That the honorable Caesar Rodney, Thomas M'Kean,
and George Read, esqrs, be, and they are hereby appointed and authorized
Note—All the members attended, except those marked thus.”
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 53
to represent this government at the American Congress, proposed to be held
at the city of Philadelphia, on the tenth day of May next, or at any other
time or place, with fulf power to them, or any two of them, together with
the delegates from the other American colonies, to concert and agree upon
such farther measures, as shall appear to them best calculated for the accom-
modation of the unhappy differences between Great-Britain and the colonies,
on a constitutional foundation, which the house most ardently wish for, and
that they report their proceedings to the next sessions of general assembly.
True copy of minutes of assembly,
DAVID THOMSON, Clerk to the Jissembly.
MARYLAND.
At a meeting of the deputies, appointed by the several counties of the pro-
vince of Maryland, at the city of Annapolis, by adjournment, on the 8th
of December, 1774, and continued till the 12th day of the same month,
Resolved unanimously, That the honorable Matthew Tilghman, Thomas
Johnson, junior, * Robert Goldsborough, William Paca, Samuel Chase, John
Hall, and * Thomas Stone, esqrs. or any three or more of them, be delegates
to represent this province, in the next Continental Congress; and that they,
or any three or more of them, have full and ample power to consent and agree
to all measures, which such Congress shall deem necessary and effectual to
obtain a redress of American grievances; and this province bind themselves
to execute, to the utmost of their power, all resolutions which the said Con-
gress may adopt. And further, if the said Congress shall think necessary to
adjourn, we do authorize our said delegates, to represent and act for this pro-
vince, in any one Congress, to be held by virtue ...” such adjournment.
Signed by order,
JOHN DUCKET, Clerk.
*-mºdºms
VIRGINIA.
At a convention of delegates for the counties and corporations in the colon
of Virginia, at the town of Richmond, in the county of Henrico, on Monday,
the 20th of March, 1775;
The convention proceeded to the election of delegates, by ballot, to repre-
sent this colony in general Congress, to be held at the city of Philadelphia, on
the tenth day of May next, when the honorable Peyton Randolph, George
Washington, “Patrick Henry, Richard Henry Lee, Edmund Pendleton, Ben-
jamin Harrison, and Richard Bland, esqrs. were chosen for that purpose.
PEYTON RANDOLPH, President,
JOHN TAZEWELL, Clerk of the Convention.
-ºººme
NORTH-CAROLINA.
At a general meeting of delegates of the inhabitants of this province, in
convention, at Newbern, the 5th day of April, 1775; -
Present; the honorable John Harvey, esq. moderator, and 68 members:
On motion, -
Resolved, That William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, and Richard Caswell, esqrs.
be, and they are hereby appointed delegates to attend the general Congress,
to be held at Philadelphia, on the tenth day of May next, or at any other time
and place that shall be appointed for that purpose, and they are hereby invested
with such powers as may make any acts done by them, or any of them, or
$onsent given in behalf of this province, obligatory, in honor, upon every in-
habitant thereof. \
A true copy from the minutes,
JOHN HARVEY, JModerator.
Attested by ANDREw Knox, Clerk.
54 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
IN THE AssEMBLY, 7th of April, 1775.
Resolved, That the house do highly approve of the proceedings of the Conti-
mental Congress, lately held at Philadelphia, and that they are determined, as
members of the community in general, that they will strictly adhere to the
said resolutions, and will use what influence they have, to induce the same
observance in every individual of this province.
This house having received information, that William Hooper, Joseph
IIewes, and Richard Caswell, esquires, were appointed by the convention, held
at Newbern, as delegates to attend the meeting of the Continental Congress,
soon to be held at Philadelphia;
Resolved, That the house approve of the choice made by the said convention.
A true copy from the journal of the house of assembly,
JAMES GREEN, junior, Clerk.
*º ºs
SOUTH-CAROLINA.
IN THE CoMMON's House of Assembly, FRIDAY, February 3, 1775.
WHEREAs the Continental Congress, held at the city of Philadelphia, in
September last, amongst other things, recommended to the several colonies in
North-America, to chuse deputies as soon as possible, to hold another Con-
ress at the same place, on the tenth day of May next, and this house being
fully satisfied with the conduct and fidelity of their late deputies at the Con-
gress, do hereby nominate and appoint the honorable Henry Middleton, esq.
Thomas Lynch, Christopher Gadsden, John Rutledge, and Edward Rutledge,
esquires, deputies for and in behalf of this colony, to meet the deputies ap-
pointed, or to be appointed, on the part and behalf of the other colonies, at
the city of Philadelphia, or any other place, that shall be agreed on by the said
deputies in general Congress, with full power and authority to concert, agree
to, and effectually prosecute such measures, as in the opinion of the said depu-
ties, and the deputies to be assembled, shall be most likely to obtain a redress
of American grievances.
Resolved, That the deputies hereby appointed on the part and behalf of this
colony, are authorized and empowered to agree, that the Continental Congress
may meet at any future time, and at such place, as shall be agreed on, and to
adjourn from time to time; provided it do not exceed nine months from the
date of their meeting in May next. f
Attested, w THOMAS FARR, junior, Clerk.
Eatract from the journals of the Provincial Congress of South-Carolina,
published by order of the Congress, the 11th of January, 1775.
Resolved, That the honorable Henry Middleton, esquire, Thomas Lynch,
Christopher Gadsden, John Rutledge, and Edward Rutledge, esquires, or any
three of them, be, and they are hereby appointed and authorized to represent
this colony, on the tenth day of May next, or sooner, if necessary, at the Ame-
rican Congress, to be held at Philadelphia, or elsewhere; with full power to
concert, agree upon, direct and order such further measures, as, in the opinion
of the said deputies, and the delegates of the other American colonies to be
assembled, shall appear to be necessary for the recovery and establishment of
American rights and liberties, and for restoring harmony between Great-Bri-
tain and her colonies.
Upon motion,
Resolved. That the thanks of the Congress be given to the rev. Mr. Duche,
for performing divine service, agreeable to the desire of the Congress, and for
his excellent prayer so well adapted to the present occasion. º
Ordered, 1. Mr. Bland, Mr. Willing, and Mr. Sullivan, be a committee
to wait upon Mr. Duche, and return the thanks of the Congress, agreeable to
the above resolution. W
*
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 55
. Upon motion, § 4
Resolved, That the doors be kept shut, during the time of business, and that the
members consider themselves under the strongest obligations of honor to keep
the proceedings secret, until the majority shalſ direct them to be made public.
A circular letter from the agents, William Bollen, Benjamin Franklin, and
Arthur Lee, esquires, directed to the speakers of several assemblies, and
sundry papers therein referred to, were laid before the Congress and read;
the letter is as follows: I
“LONDON, February 5, 1775.
* SIR,
“Our last letter informed you, that the king had declared his intentions of
laying the petition before his two houses of parliament. It has accordingly
been laid before each house, but undistinguished among a variety of letters
and other papers from America.
“A motion made by lord Chatham, to withdraw the troops from Boston, as
the first step towards a conciliating plan, was rejected; and the ministry have
declared in both houses the determination to inforce obedience to all the late
laws. For this purpose, we understand, that three regiments of foot, one of
dragoons, seven hundred marines, six sloops of war, and two frigates, are now
under orders for America.
“We think it proper to inform you, that your cause was well defended by a
considerable number of good and wise men in both houses of parliament, though
far from being a majority: and that many of the commercial and manufactur-
ing parts of the nation, concerned in the American trade, have presented, or,
as we understand, are preparing to present, petitions to parliament, declaring
their great concern, for the present unhappy controversies with America, and
praying expressly, or in effect, for healing measures, as the proper means of pre-
serving their commerce, now greatly suffering or endangered. But the treat-
ment the petitions, already presented, have hitherto received, is such, as, in our
opinion, can afford you no reliance on the present relief through their means.
“As soon as we learnt that the petition of the Congress was before the house
of commons, we thought it our duty to support it, if we might be permitted so
to do, as there was no other opportunity for the numerous inhabitants of the
colonies to be heard in defence of their rights: accordingly, we joined in a peti-
tion for that purpose. Sir George Saville kindly undertook to presentit. But, on
previously opening the purport of it, as the order is, a debate arose on the pro-
priety of receiving it, and on a division, it was rejected by a great majority.
“The following extract of a letter from general Gage to lord Dartmouth, as
laid before parliament, we think it our duty to transmit, viz.
“Dec. 15, 1774. Your lordship’s idea of disarming certain provinces,
would doubtless be consistent with prudence and safety, but it neither is, nor
has been practicable, without having recourse to force, and being masters of
the country.” -
... “It was thrown out in debate by a principal member of administration, that
it would be proper to alter the charters of Connecticut and Rhode-Island.
“Inclosed, we send you a copy of the resolutions passed in a committee of the
whole house, on Thursday last, which are to be reported on Monday. It is said
that these resolutions are to be the foundation of several bills to be broughtin, but
the purport of those bills we have not yet learnt with sufficient certainty.
“We send you likewise, a copy of lord Chatham’s first motion in the house
of lords, and of his plan of a bill for settling the troubles between Great-Britain
and the colonies; both which were rejected on the first reading.
With great respect, we are, sir,
e Your most obedient, humble servants, *
\ (Signed) WILLIAM BOLLEN,
- BENJAMIN FRANKLIN,
ARTHUR LEE.”
56 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
–3–
The papers referred to in the foregoing letter, being published in the news-
papers, it is not necessary to insert them.
Mr. Hancock laid before the Congress a letter from the provincial Congress
of Massachusetts-Bay, together with certain resolutions formed by said Con-
gress, and a copy of a letter, sent by said Congress to their agent in England,
and an address to the inhabitants of Great-Britain, on the late engagement be-
tween the troops under general Gage, and the inhabitants of Massachusetts-
Bay; also a number of depositions, duly attested, relative to the commence-
ment of said hostilities, all which were read, and are as follows:
IN PRovincIAL CoNGREss, WATERTown, JMay 3, 1775.
To the honorable American Continental Congress, to be convened at Philadelphia, on the tenth
of May instant.
MAY IT PLEASE YOUR Honours,
The Congress of this colony, impressed with the deepest concern for their
country, under the present critical and alarming state of its public affairs, beg
leave, with the utmost submission, whilst acting in support of the cause of
America, to request the direction and assistance of your respectable assembly.
The inclosed packet, containing copies of the depositions, which we have
despatched for London, also an address to the inhabitants of Great-Britain,
and a letter to our colony agent, Benjamin Franklin, esq. are humbly submitted
to your consideration.
}. sanguinary zeal of the ministerial army, to ruin and destroy the inhabi-
tants of this colony, in the opinion of this Congress, hath rendered the estab-
lishment of an army indispensably necessary; we have accordingly passed an
unanimous resolve for thirteen thousand six hundred men, to be forthwith
raised by this colony, and proposals are made by us to the Congress of New-
Hampshire, and governments of Rhode-Island and Connecticut colonies, for
furnishing men in the same proportion.
The sudden exigency of our public affairs, precluded the possibility of
waiting for your direction in these important measures, more especially, as a
considerable reinforcement from Great-Britain is daily expected in this colony,
and we are now reduced to the sad alternative of defending ourselves by arms,
or submitting to be *. ^s.
With the greatest deference, we beg leave to suggest, that a powerful army,
on the side of America, hath been considered, by this Congress, as the only
means left to stem the rapid progress of a tyrannical ministry. Without a
force, superior to our enemies, we must reasonably expect to become the vic-
ims of their relentless fury. With such a force, we may still have hopes of
seeing an immediate end put to the inhuman ravages of mercenary troops in
America, and the wicked authors of our miseries, brought to condign punish-
ment, by the just indignation of our brethren in Great-Britain.
We hope that this colony will, at all times, be ready to spend and be spent
in the cause of America. . It is, nevertheless, a misfortune greatly operating to
its disadvantage, that it has a great number of sea-port towns, exposed to the
approach of the enemy by sea; from many of which, the inhabitants have
removed, and are removing their families and effects, to avoid destruction
from ships of war. These, we apprehend, will be generally distressed from
want of subsistence, and disabled from. contributing aid for supporting the
forces of the colony; but we have the greatest confidence in the wisdom and
ability of the continent to support us, so far as it shall appear necessary for
"Wºº the common cause of the American colonies.
e also inclose several resolves for empowering and directing our receiver-
general to borrow the sum of one hundred thousand pounds, lawful money,
and to issue his notes for the same; it being the only measures, which we
could have recourse to, for supporting our forces ; and we request your assist-
ance in rendering our measures effectual, by giving our notes a currency
through the continent. JOSEPH WARREN, President, P. T.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 57
The papers inclosed, and referred to, in the above, are as follows:
IN PRovincIAL Congress, WATERTown, JMay 3, 1775.
Resolved, That the receiver-general be, and hereby is empowered to borrow
the sum of one hundred thousand pounds, lawful money, and issue colony
security for the same, payable, with annual interest, at six per cent. June 1,
1777, and that the continental Congress be desired to recommend to the seve-
ral colonies, to give a currency to such securities.
A true extract from the minutes,
SAMUEL FREEMAN, Secretary, P. T.
IN PRovincIAL Congress, WATERtown, JMay 3, 1775.
Resolved, That the securities given by the receiver-general for the monies
borrowed by him, in pursuance of the aforegoing resolve, be in the form fol-
lowing, viz.
COLONY OF THE MASS ACHUSETTS-BAY.
No, the day of A. D. 177 bor-
rowed and received of A. B. the sum of
lawful money, for the use and service of the colony of the Massachusetts-Bay,
and in behalf of said colony. I do hereby promise and oblige myself, and suc-
cessors in the office of treasurer, or receiver-general, to repay to the said
or to his order, the first day of June, 1777, the aforesaid
sum of lawful money, in Spanish milled dollars, at six shillings
each, or in the several species of coined silver and gold, enumerated in an act
made and passed in the 23d year of his late majesty, king George the Second,
intituled “An act for ascertaining the rates at which coined silver and gold,
English half-pence and farthings, may pass within this government:” and
according to the rates therein mentioned, with interest, to be paid annually,
at sº per cent. Witness my hand
. B.
C. D. S-
And whereas inconveniencies may arise, by the receiver-general’s issuing
notes for small sums, therefore, *
. Resolved, That the receiver-general be, and he hereby is directed, not to
issue any notes for a less sum than four pounds lawful money.
A trüe extract from the minutes,
SAMUEL FREEMAN, Secretary, P. T.
To the hon. Benjamin Franklin, esq. at London.
“S IN PRovincIAL Congress, WATERTown, April 26, 1775.
‘SIR,
“From the entire confidence we repose in your faithfulness and abilities,
We consider it the happiness of this colony, that the important trust of agency
for it, in this day of unequalled distress, is devolved on your hands, and we
doubt not your attachment to the cause and liberties of imankind, will make
every possible exertion in our behalf, a pleasure to you; although our circum-
stances will compelus often to interrupt your repose, by matters that will surely
§ye you pain. A singular instance hereof is the occasion of the present letter.
The contents of this packet, will be our apology for troubling you with it.
“From these you will see how, and by whom, we are at last plunged into
the horrors of a most unnatural war.
“Our enemies, we are told, have despatched to Great-Britain a fallacious
*count of the tragedy they have begun; to prevent the operation of which, to
the public injury, we have engaged the vessel that conveys this to you, as a
packet II] the service of this colony, and we request your assistance in sup-
ply ing captain Derby, who commands her, with such necessaries as he shall
Want, º * credit of your constituents in Massachusetts-Bay.
OL, le 8
58 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
*But we most ardently wish, that the several papers herewith inclosed,
may be immediately printed and dispersed through every town in England,
. especially communicated to the lord mayor, aldermen, and council of the
city of London, that they may take such order thereon, as they may think pro-
per. And we are confident your fidelity will make such improvement of them,
as shall convince all, who are not determined to be in everlasting blindness,
that it is the united efforts of both Fuglands, that can save either. But that
whatever price our brethren in the one, may be pleased to put on their consti-
tutional liberties, we are authorized to assure you, that the inhabitants of the
other, with the greatest unanimity, are inflexibly resolved to sell theirs only
at the price of their lives.”
Signed by order of the Provincial Congress,
JOSEPH WARREN, President, P. T.
A true copy from the original minutes,
SAMUEL FREEMAN, Secretary, P. T.
The depositions relative to the commencement of hostilities, are as follows:
* LEXINGTON, April 25, 1775.
“We, Solomon Brown, Jonathan Loring, and Elijah Sanderson, all of law-
ful age, and of Lexington, in the county of Middlesex, and colony of the
Massachusetts-Bay, §. England, do testify and declare, that on the even-
ing of the 18th of April, instant, being on the road between Concord and Lex-
ington, and all of us mounted on horses, we were, about ten of the clock,
suddenly surprised by nine persons, whom we took to be regular officers, who
rode up to us, mounted and armed, each having a pistol in his hand, and after
putting pistols to our breasts, and seizing the bridles of our horses, they swore,
if we stirred another step, we should be all dead men, upon which we surren-
dered ourselves. They detained us until two o'clock the next morning, in
which time they searched and greatly abused us, having first enquired about
the magazine at Concord, whether any guards were posted there, and whether
the bridges were up, and said four or #. regiments of regulars would be in
possession of the stores soon. They then brought us back to Lexington, cut
the horses’ bridles and girths, turned them loose, and then left us.
“SOLOMON BROWN,
“JONATHAN LORING,
“ELIJAH SANDERSON.”
LEXINGTON, April 25, 1775.
“I, Elijah Sanderson, above named, do further testify and declare, that I
was on Lexington common, the morning of the 19th of April, aforesaid, having
been dismissed by the officers abovementioned, and saw a large body of regu.
lar troops advancing towards Lexington company, many of whom were then
dispersing. I heard one of the regulars, whom I took to be an officer, Say,
“Damn them, we will have them,” and immediately the regulars shouted
aloud, run and fired upon the Lexington company, which did not fire a gun
before the regulars discharged on them. i. of the Lexington company
were killed while they were dispersing, and at a considerable distance from
each other, and many wounded, and although a spectator, I narrowly escaped
with my life. t
“ELIJAH SANDERSON.”
LEXINGTON, April 23, 1775.
“I, Thomas Rice Willard, of lawful age, do testify and declare, that being
in the house of Daniel Harrington, of said Lexington, on the 19th instant, in
the morning, about half an hour before sun-rise, looked out at the window of
said house, and saw (as I suppose) about four hundred regulars in one body,
coming up the road, and marched towards the north part of the common, back
of the meeting-house of said Lexington, and as soon as said regulars were
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 59
*—
*-
against the east end of the meeting-house, the commanding officcr said some-
thing, what I know not, but upon that the regulars ran tiſſ they came within
about eight or nine rods of about an hundred of the militia of Lexington, who
were collected on said common, at which time the militia of Lexington dis-
persed, then the officers made an huzza, and the private soldiers succeeded
them: directly after this, an officer rode before the regulars to the other side
of the body, and hallooed after the militia of said Lexington, and said, “lay
down your arms, damn you, why don’t you lay down your arms?” and that
there was not a gun fired till the militia of Lexington were dispersed; and
further saith not.
“THOMAS RICE WILLARD.”
LEXINGTON, April 25, 1775.
“Simon Winship, of Lexington, in the county of Middlesex, and province of
Massachusetts-Bay, New England, being of lawful age, testifieth and saith,
that on the 19th April instant, about four o’clock in the morning, as he was
passing the public road in said Lexington, peaceably and unarmed, about two
miles and a half distant from the meeting-house in said Lexington, he was
met by a body of the king’s regular troops, and being stopped by some officers
of said troops, was commanded to dismount; upon asking why he must dis-
mount, he was obliged by force to quit his horse, and ordered to march in the
midst of the body, and being examined whether he had been warning file mi-
nute men, he answered no, but had been out, and was then returning to his
father’s. Said Winship farther testifies, that he marched with said troops,
till he came within about half-a-quarter of a mile of said meeting-house, where
an officer commanded the troops to halt, and then to prime and load : this
being done, the said troops marched on till they came within a few rods of
captain Parker’s company, who were partly collected on the place of parade,
when said Winship observed an officer at the head of said troops, flourishing his
sword, and with a loud voice, giving the word fire, fire, which was instantly
followed by a discharge of arms from said regular troops, and said Winship is
positive, and in the most solemn manner declares, that there was no discharge
of arms on either side, till the word fire was given, by the said officer as above.
“SIMON WINSHIP.”
LEXINGTON, April 25, 1775.
“ I, John Parker, of lawful age, and commander of the militia in Lexing-
ton, do testify and declare, that on the 19th instant, in the morning, about one
of the clock, being informed that there were a number of regular officers riding
up and down the road, stopping and insulting people as they passed the road;
and also was informed that a number of regular troops were on their march
from Boston, in order to take the province stores at Concord, ordered our
militia to meet on the common in said Lexington, to consult what to do, and
concluded not to be discovered, nor meddle nor make with said regular troops
(if they should approach) unless they should insult or molest us ;-and, upon
their sudden approach, I immediately ordered our militia to disperse, and not
to fire.—Immediately said troops made their appearance and rushed furiously,
fired upon, and killed eight of our party, without receiving any provocation
therefor from us.
* “JOHN PARKER.”
LEXINGTON, April 24, 1775.
“I, John Robins, being of lawful age, do testify and say, that on the 19th
instant, the company under the command of captain John Parker, being drawn
up (sometime before sun-rise) on the green or common, and I being in the
front rank, there suddenly appeared a number of the king's troops, about a
thousand, as I thought, at the distance of about sixty or seventy yards from
|
66) JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. ;
\
*
us huzzaing, and on a quick, pace towards us, with three officers in their front
on horse-back, and on full gallop towards us, the foremost of which cried, throw
down you arms ye villains, ye rebels' upon which said company dispersing,
the foremost of the three officers ordered their men, saying, fire, by God, fire
at which moment we received a very heavy and close fire from them, at
which instant, being wounded, I fell, and several of our men were shot dead
by me. Captain Parker’s men I believe had not then fired a gun, and further
the deponent saith not.
* “JOHN ROBINS.”
LEXINGTON, April 25, 1775.
We, Benjamin Tidd, of Lexington, and Joseph Abbot, of Lincoln, in the
county of Middlesex, and colony of Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England, of
lawful age, do testify and declare, that, on the morning of the 19th of April
instant, about five o’clock, being on Lexington common, and mounted on
horses, we saw a body of regular troops marching up to the Lexington com-
pany, which was then dispersing: Soon after, the regulars fired, first, a few
guns, which we took to be pistols from some of the regulars who were mount-
ed on horses, and then the said regulars fired a volley or two before any guns
were fired by the Lexington company; our horses immediately started, and
we rode off. And further say not.
“BENJAMIN TIDD,
<< JOSEPH ABBOT.”
LEXINGTON, April 25, 1775.
“We, Nathaniel Mullokin, Philip Russell, Moses Harrington, jun. Thomas
and Daniel Harlington, William Grimes, William Tidd, Isaac Hastings, Jonas
Stone, jun. James Wyman, Thaddeus Harrington, John Chandler, Joshua Reed,
jun. Joseph Simonds, Phineas Smith, John Chandler, jun. Reuben Cock, Joel
Wiles, Nathan Reed, Samuel Tidd, Benjamin Lock,Thomas Winship, Simeon
Snow, John Smith, Moses Harrington the 3d, Joshua Reed, Ebenezer
Parker, John Harrington, Enoch Willington, John Hormer, Isaac Green,
Phineas Stearns, Isaac Durant, and Thomas Headley, jun. all of lawful age,
and inhabitants of Lexington in the county of Middlesex, and colony of
the Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England, do testify and declare, that on
the 19th of April instant, about one or two o'clock in the morning, being
informed that several officers of the regulars had, the evening before, been
riding up and down the road, and had detained and insulted the inha-
bitants passing the same ; and also understanding that a body of regulars
were marching from Boston towards Concord, with intent (as it was supposed)
to take the stores, belonging to the colony, in that town, we were alarmed,
and having met at the place of our company’s parade, were dismissed by our
captain, John Parker, for the present, with orders to be ready to attend at the
beat of the drum. We further testify and declare, that about five o’clock in
the morning, hearing our drum beat, we proceeded towards the parade, and
soon found that a large body of troops were marching towards us: Some of
our company were coming up to the parade, and others had reached it, at which
time the company began to disperse: Whilst our backs were turned on the
troops, we were fired on by them, and a number of our men were instantly
killed and wounded. . Nota gun was fired, by any person in our company, on
the regulars, to our knowledge, before they fired on us, and they continued
firing until we had all made our escape.
“Signed by each of the above timents.”
**,
* LEXINGTON, April 25, 1776.
“We, Nathaniel Parkhurst, Jonas Parker, John Munroe,jun. John Winship,
Solomon Pierce, John Muzzy, Abner Meeds, John Bridge,jun. Ebenezer Bow:
man, William Munroe the 3d, Micah Hager, Samuel Saunderson, Samuel
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 61
Hastings, and James Brown, of Lexington, in the county of Middlesex, and
colony of the Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England, and all of lawful age, do
testify and say, that, on the morning of the nineteenth of April instant, about
one or two o'clock, being informed, that a number of regular officers had been
riding up and down the road the evening and night preceding, and that some of
the inhabitants, as they were passing, had been insulted by the officers, and
stopped by them; and being also informed, that the regular troops were on their
march from Boston, in order (as it was said) to take the colony stores, then
deposited at Concord, we met on the parade of our company in this town; after
the company had collected, we were ordered, by captain Parker, (who com-
manded us) to disperse for the present, and to be ready to attend the beat of
the drum, and accordingly the company went into houses near the place of
parade. We further testify and say, that, about five o’clock in the morning, we
attended the beat of our drum, and were formed on the parade; we were faced
towards the regulars then marching up to us, and some of our company were
coming to the parade with their backs towards the troops, and others on the
parade, began to disperse when the regulars fired on the company, before a gun
was fired by any of our company on them. They killed eight of our company,
and wounded several, and continued their fire, until we had all made our escape.
“Signed by each of the deponents.”
LEXINGTON, April 25, 1775.
“I, Timothy Smith, of Lexington, in the county of Middlesex, and colony
of Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England, being of lawful age, do testify and
declare, that, on the morning of the nineteenth of April instant, being on
Lexington common, as a spectator, I saw a large body of regular troops march-
ing up towards the Lexington company, then dispersing, and likewise saw the
regular troops fire on the Lexington company, before the latter fired a gun; I
immediately ran, and a volley was discharged at me, which put me in immi-
nent danger of losing my life; I soon returned to the common, and saw eight
of the Lexington men who were killed, and lay bleeding at a considerable
distance from each other; and several were wounded : And further faith not.
“TIMOTHY SMITH.”
LEXINGTON, Jlpril 25, 1775.
“We, Levi Mead and Levi Harrington, both of Lexington, in the county of
Middlesex, and colony of Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England, and of law-
ful age, do testify and declare, that on the morning of the nineteenth of April,
being on Lexington commons, as spectators, we saw a large body of regular
troops marching up towards the Lexington company, and some of the regulars,
on horses, whom we took to be officers, fired a pistol or two on the Lexington
company, which was then dispersing: These were the first guns that were
fired, and they were immediately followed by several vollies from the regu-
lars, by which eight men, belonging to said company, were killed, and several
wounded.
sº “LEVI HARRINGTON,
“ LEWI MEA.D.”
LEXINGTON, April 25, 1775.
“I, William Draper, of lawful age, and an inhabitant of Colrain, in the
county of Hampshire, and colony of Massachusettts-Bay, in New-England, do
testify and declare, that, being on the parade of said i.exington, April 19th
instant, about half an hour before sunrise, the king's regular troops appeared at
the meeting-house of Lexington. Captain Parker’s company, who were drawn
up back of said meeting-house on the parade, turned from said troops, making
their escape, by dispersing; in the mean time, the regular troops made an
huzza, and ran towards captain Parker's company, who were dispersing, and,
62 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
}
immediately after the huzza was made, the commanding officer of said troops
§. I took him) gave the command to the said troops, fire “fire damn you,
re!” and immediately, they fired before any of captain Parker's company
fired, I then being within three or four rods of said regular troops: And further
say not.
“ WILLIAM DRAPER.??
LEXINGTON, April 23, 1775.
“I, Thomas Fessenden, of lawful age, testify and declare, that, being in a
pasture near the meeting-house, at said Lexington, on Wednesday last, at
about half an hour before sunrise, I saw a number of regular troops pass spee-
dily by said meeting-house, on their way towards a company of militia of said
Lexington, who were assembled to the number of about one hundred in a com-
pany, at the distance of eighteen or twenty rods from said meeting-house;
and after they had passed by said meeting-house, I saw three officers, on horse-
back, advance to the front of said regulars, when one of them, being within
six rods of the said militia, cried out, “ disperse, you rebels, immediately,” on
which he brandished his sword over his head three times; meanwhile the
second officer, who was about two rods behind him, fired a pistol, pointed at
said militia, and the regulars kept huzzaing till he had finished brandishing
his sword, and when he had thus finished brandishing his sword, he pointed it
down towards said militia, and immediately on which the said regulars fired
a volley at the militia, and then Iran off as fast as I could, while they continued
firing, till I got out of their reach. I further testify, that as soon as ever the
officer cried “ disperse, you rebels,” the said company of militia dispersed every
way, as fast as they could, and, while they were dispersing, the regulars kept
firing at them incessantly: And further saith not.
“THOMAS FESSENDEN,”
LINCOLN, April 23, 1775.
“I, John Bateman, belonging to the fifty-second regiment, commanded by
colonel Jones, on Wednesday morning, on the 19th day of April instant, was
in the party marching to Concord, being at Lexington, in the county of Mid-
dlesex, being nigh the meeting-house in said Lexington, there was a small party
of men gathered together in that place, when our said troops marched by, and
I testify and declare, that I . the word of command given to the troops
to fire, and some of said troops did fire, and I saw one of said small party lay
dead on the ground nigh said meeting-house ; and I testify, that I never
heard any of the inhabitants so much as fire one gun on said stroops.
“ JOHN BATEMAN.”
LEXINGTON, April 23, 1775.
“We, John Hoar, John Whithead, Abraham Garfield, Benjamin Munroe,
Isaac Parks, William Hosmer, John Adams, Gregory Stone, all of Lincoln, in
the county of Middlesex, Massachusetts-Bay, all of lawful age, do testify and
say, that, on Wednesday last, we were assembled at Concord, in the morning of
said day, in consequence of information received, that a brigade of regular
troops were on their march to the said town of Concord, who had killed six
men at the town of Lexington; about an hour afterwards we saw them approach-
ing, to the number, as we apprehended, of about twelve hundred, on which we re-
treated to a hill about eighty rods back, and the said troops then took posses-
sion of the hill, where we were first posted; presently after this, we saw the
troops moving towards the north bridge, about one mile from the said Concord
meeting-house; we then immediately went before them and passed the bridge
just before a party of them, to the number of about two hundred, arrived ; the
there left about one half of their two hundred at the bridge, and proceeded,
with the rest, towards col. Barrett's, about two miles from the said bridge; we
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 63
A–.
then seeing several fires in the town, thought the houses in Concord were in
danger, and marched towards the said bridge; and the troops that were station-
ed there, observing our approach, marched back over the bridge and then took
up some of the planks; we then hastened our march towards the bridge, and
when we had got near the bridge, they fired on our men, first three guns, one
after the other, and then a considerable number more; and then, and not be-
fore (having orders from our commanding officers not to fire till we were fired
upon) we fired upon the regulars and they retreated. On their retreat through
the town of Lexington to Charlestown, they ravaged and destroyed private pro-
perty, and burnt three houses, one barn and one shop.
“Signed by each of the above deponents.”
LEXINGTON, April 23, 1775.
“We, Nathan Barrot, captain; Jonathan Farrar, Joseph Butler, and Fran-
cis Wheeler, lieutenants; John Barret, ensign; John Brown, Silas Walker,
Ephraim Melvin, Nathan Buttrick, Stephen Hosmer, jun. Samuel Barret,
Thomas Jones, Joseph Chandler, Peter Wheeler, Nathan Pierce, and Edward
Richardson, all of Concord, in the county of Middlesex, in the province of
Massachusetts-Bay, of lawful age, testify and declare, that on Wednesday, the
nineteenth instant, about an hour after sun-rise, we assembled on a hill near
the meeting-house, in Concord aforesaid, in consequence of an information,
that a number of regular troops had killed six of our countrymen, at Lexington,
and were on their march to said Concord ; and about an hour afterwards, we
saw them approaching, to the number, as we imagine, of about twelve hundred;
on which we retreated to a hill about eighty rods back, and the aforesaid
troops then took possession of a hill where we were first posted. Presently
after this, we saw them moving towards the north bridge, about one mile from
the said meeting-house ; we then immediately went before them, and passed
the bridge just before a party of them, to the number of about two hundred,
arrived. They there left about one half of these two hundred at the bridge,
and proceeded with the rest towards colonel Barrett’s, about two miles from
the said bridge. We then seeing several fires in the town, thought our houses
were in danger, and immediately marched back towards said bridge, and the
troops who were stationed there, observing our approach, marched back over
the bridge, and them took up some of the planks. We then hastened our steps
towards the bridge, and when we had got near the bridge, they fired on our
men, first three #. one after the other, and then a considerable number more;
upon which, and not before, (having orders from our commanding officer not
to fire till we were fired upon) we fired upon the regulars, and they retreated.
At Concord, and on their retreat through Lexington, they º many
houses, burnt three at Lexington, together with a shop and barn, and committed
damage, more or less, to almost every house from Concord to Charlestown.
6& i. by the above deponents.”
“We, Joseph Butler, and Ephraim Melvin, do testify and declare, that
when the regular troops fired upon our people, at the north bridge, in Concord,
as related in the foregoing depositions, they shot one, and we believe two, of our
people before we fired a single gun at them. #
“JOSEPH BUTLER,
Leacington, April 23, 1775. * EPHRAIM MELVIN.”
CONCORD, April 23, 1775.
“I, Timothy Minot, jun. of Concord, on the nineteenth day of this instant,
April, after that I had heard of the regular troops firing upon Lexington men,
and fearing that hostilities might be committed at Concord, thought it my
incumbent duty to secure my family.—After I had secured my family, some
time after that, returning towards my own dwelling, and finding that the bridge
64 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
on the north part of said Concord, was guarded by regular troops, being a
spectator of what had happened at said bridge, declare, that the regular troops
stationed on said bridge, after they saw the men that were collected on the
westerly side of said bridge, marched towards said bridge, then the troops re-
turned towards the easterly side of said bridge, and formed themselves, as I
thought, for regular fight: after that they fired one gun, then two or three more,
before the men that were stationed on the westerly part of said bridge fired on
them. “TIMOTHY MINOT, JUN.”
LEXINGTON, April 23, 1775.
“I, James Barrett, of Concord, colonel of a regiment of militia, in the
county of Middlesex, do testify and say, that, on Wednesday morning last,
about day-break, I was informed of the approach of a number of the regular
troops to the town of Concord, where were some magazines belonging to this
province, when there was assembled some of the militia of this and the neigh-
boring towns, I ordered them to march to the north bridge (so called) which
§ had passed and were taking up. I ordered said militia to march to said
bridge and pass the same, but not to fire on the king's troops unless they were
first fired upon. We advanced near said bridge, when the said troops fired upon
our militia, and killed two men dead on the spot, and wounded several others,
which was the first firing of guns in the town of Concord: my detachment then
returned the fire, which killed and wounded several of the king’s troops.
“JAMES BARRETT.”
LEXINGTON, April 23, 1775.
“We, Bradbury Robinson, Samuel Spring, Thaddeus Bancroft, all of Con-
cord; and James Adams, of Lexington, all in the county of Middlesex, all of
lawful age, do testify and say, that on Wednesday morning last, near ten of
the clock, we saw near one hundred of the regular troops, being in the town
of Concord, at the north bridge in said town (so called) and having passed the
same, they were taking up said bridge, when about three hundred of our militia
were advancing toward said bridge, in order to pass said bridge, when, without
saying any thing to us, they discharged a number of guns on us, which killed
two men dead on the spot, and wounded several others; when we returned
the fire on them, which killed two of them, and wounded several, which was
the beginning of hostilities in the town of Concord.
* “BRADBURY ROBINSON,
“SAMUEL SPRING,
“THADDEUS BANCROFT,
“JAMES ADAMS.”
WORCESTER, April 26, 1775.
“Hannah Bradish, of that part of Cambridge, called Menotomy, and daughter
of Timothy Paine, of Worcester, in the county of Worcester, esq. of lawful
age, testifies and says, that about five o’clock on Wednesday last, afternoon,
being in her bed chamber, with her infant child, about eight days old, she was
surprised by the firing of the king's troops and our people, on their return
from Congord. She being weak and unable to go out of her house, in order
to secure herself and family, they all retired into the kitchen, in the back part
of the house. She soon found the house surrounded with the king's troops;
that upon observation made, at least seventy bullets were shot into the front
part of the house; several bullets º in the kitchen where she was, and
one passed through an easy chair she had just gone from. The door of the
front part of the house was broken open; she did not see any soldiers in
the house, but supposed, by the noise, they were in the front. After the
troops had gone off, she missed the following things, which, she verily believes,
were taken out of the house by the king's troops, viz: one rich brocade gown,
|
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 65
called a negligee, one lutestring gown, one white quilt, one pair of brocadeshoes,
three shifts, eight white aprons, three caps, one case of ivory knives and forks,
and several other small articles.
“HANNAH BRADISH.”
Province of the &
Massachusetts-Bay, } Worcester, ss. April 26, 1775.
“Mrs. Hannah Bradish, the above deponent, maketh oath before us, the
subscribers, two of his majesty’s justices of the peace, for the county of Wor-
cester, and of the quorum, that the above deposition, according to her best
recollection, is the truth. Which deposition is taken in perpetuam rei me-
anoriam.
“THOMAS STEEL,
<< TIMOTHY PAINE.”
CONCORD, April 23, 1775.
“I, James Marr, of lawful age, testify and say, that in the evening of the
eighteenth instant, I received orders from George Hutchinson, adjutant of the
fourth regiment of the regular troops stationed at Boston, to prepare and
march : to which orders I attended, and marched to Concord, where I was
ordered by an officer with about one hundred men, to guard a certain bridge
there; while attending that service, a number of people came along, in order,
as I suppose, to cross said bridge, at which time a number of the regular troops
first fired upon them.
“JAMES MARR.”
MEDFORD, April 25, 1775.
“I, Edward Thoroton Gould, of his majesty’s own regiment of foot, being
of lawful age, do testify and declare, that on the evening of the eighteenth
instant, under the orders of general Gage, I embarked with the light infantry
and grenadiers of the line, commanded by colonel Smith, and landed on the
marshes of Cambridge, from whence we proceeded to Lexington; on our ar-
rival at that place, we saw a body of provincial troops armed, to the number
9f about sixty or seventy men; on our approach, they dispersed, and soon after
firing began, but which party fired first, I cannot exactly say, as our troops
rushed on shouting, and huzzaing, previous to the firing, which was continued
by our troops, so long as any of the provincials were to be seen. From thence
We marched to Concord. On a hill near the entrance of the town, we saw
another body of provincials assembled; the light infantry companies were or-
dered up the hill to disperse them; on our approach, they retreated towards
Concord; the grenadiers continued the road under the hill towards the town.
Six companies of light infantry were ordered down to take possession of the
bridge, which the provincials retreated over; the company I commanded was
one : three companies of the above detachment went forwards about two miles;
in the mean time, the provincial troops returned, to the number of about three
or four hundred: we . up on the Concord side of the bridge, the provin-
cials came down upon us, upon which we engaged and gave the first fire; this
was the first engagement after the one at Lexington; a continued firing from
both parties lasted through the whole day; I myself was wounded at the attack
of the bridge, and am now treated with the greatest humanity, and taken all
possible care of by the provincials at Medford.
“ EDWARD THOROTON GOULD, Lieut.
- King’s own Regiment.”
VoI. I. 9 *
66 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
*.
Province of
Massachusetts Bay,
“Lieu. Thoroton Gould, aforenamed, personally made oath to the truth of
the foregoing declaration by him subscribed, before us,
“THAI). MASSON,
“JOSIAH JOHNSON,
“ SIMONTUFTS, x
Justices of the peace, for the county aforesaid, quorum unus.”
Province of JMassachusetts-Bay, Charlestown, ss.
“I, Nathaniel Gorham, notary and tabellion public, by lawful authority duly
admitted and sworn, hereby certify, to all whom it doth or may concern, That
Thadeus Masson, Josiah Johnson, and Simon Tufts, esqrs. are three of his
majesty’s justices of the peace (quorum unus) for the county of Middlesex;
and that full faith and credit is, and ought to be given to their transactions, as
such, both in court and out. In witness whereof, I have hereunto affixed my
name and seal, this twenty-sixth day of April, Jinno Domini, one thousand se-
ven hundred and seventy-five.
* “NATHANIEL GORHAM, JYotary Public.” (L.S.)
(All the above depositions are sworn to before justices of the peace and duly
attested by notaries public, in manner of the last one.)
IN PRovINCIAL CoNGREss, WATERTown, April 26, 1775.
* f To the inhabitants of Great-Britain.
“FRIENDS AND FELLow-subjects,
“Hostilities are at length commenced in this colony by the troops under the
command of general Gage, and it being of the greatest importance, that an
early, true, and authentic account of this inhuman proceeding should be known
to you, the Congress of this colony have transmitted the same, and from want
of a session of the hon. Continental Congress, think it proper to address you on
the alarming occasion.
“By the clearest depositions, relative to this transaction, it will appear that,
on the night preceding the nineteenth of April instant, a body of the king’s
troops, under the command of colonel Smith, were secretly landed at Cam-
bridge, with an apparent design to take or destroy the military and other stores,
rovided for the defence of this colony, and deposited at Concord—that some
inhabitants of the colony, on the night aforesaid, whilst travelling peaceably on
the road between Boston and Concord, were seized and greatly abused by
armed men, who appeared to be officers of general Gage’s army:—that the
town of Lexington by these means was alarmed, and a company of the inhabit-
ants mustered on the occasion—that the regular troops, on their way to Con-
cord, marched into the said town of Lexington, and the said company on their
approach began to disperse—that notwithstanding this, the regulars rushed on
with great violence, and first began hostilities, by firing on said Lexington com-
pany, whereby they killed eight and wounded several others—that the regulars
continued their fire until those of said company, who were neither killed nor
wounded, had made their escape—that colonel Smith, with the detachment,
then marched to Concord, where a number of provincials were again fired on
by the troops, two of them killed and several wounded, before the provincials
fired on them, and that these hostile measures of the troops produced an
engagement that lasted through the day, in which many of the provincials, and
more of the regular troops were killed and wounded.
“To give a particular account of the ravages of the troops, as they retreat-
ed from Concord to Charlestown, would be very difficult, if not impracticable;
let it suffice to say, that a great number of the houses on the road were plun:
dered, and rendered unfit for use; several were burnt; women in child-bed
{ JMiddlesea county, April 25, 1775.
JOURNALS OF ("ONGRESS, 1775. 67
---> -----
were driven, by the soldiery, naked into the streets; old men peaceably in their
houses were shot dead; and such scenes exhibited as would disgrace the an-
nals of the most uncivilized nations.
“These, brethren, are marks of ministerial vengeance against this colony,
for refusing, with her sister colonies, a submission to slavery ; but they have
not yet detached us from our royal sovereign. We profess to be his loyal and
dutiful subjects, and so hardly dealt with as we have been, are still ready,
with our lives and fortunes, to defend his person, family, crown, and dignity.
Nevertheless, to the persecution and tyranny of his cruel ministry we will not
tamely submit—appealing to heaven for the justice of our cause, we determine
to die or be free. a
“We cannot think that the honor, wisdom, and valour of Britons will suf-
fer them to be long inactive spectators of measures, in which they themselves
are so deeply interested :—Measures pursued in opposition to the solemn pro-
tests of many noble lords, and expressed sense of conspicuous commoners,
whose knowledge and virtue have long characterized them as some of the
greatest men in the nation :-Measures executing contrary, to the interest,
petitions and resolves of many large, respectable and opulent counties, cities,
and boroughs in Great-Britain :—Measures highly incompatible with justice,
but still pursued with a specious pretence of easing the nation of its burthens:—
Measures which, if successful, must end in the ruin and slavery of Britain, as
well as the persecuted American colonies.
“We sincerely hope, that the great Sovereign of the Universe, who hath so
often appeared for the English nation, will support you in every rational and
manly exertion with these colonies, for saving it from ruin; and that in a con-
stitutional connexion with the mother country, we shall soon be altogether a
free and happy people. ---
“Per order, -* JOSEPH WARREN, President, P.T.”
Ordered, That the secretary have the above depositions and the address to
the inhabitants of Great-Britain published.
Resolved, JW. C. D. That the Congress will, on Monday next, resolve itself
into a committee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of America.
Ordered, That the letter from the provincial Congress of Massachusetts-Bay
be referred to that committee.
Adjourned till to-morrow at ten o’clock, and from thence to Saturday.
SATURDAY, JMay 18, 1775.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The Congress being informed that doctor Lyman Hall attended at the door,
as a delegate from the parish of St. John’s, in the colony of Georgia, and desir-
ed to know whether, as such, he may be admitted to this Congress;
•lgreed unanimously, That he be admitted as a delegate from the parish of
St. John’s, in the 90.lony of Georgia, subject to such regulations as the Congress
shall determine, relative to his voting.
Mr. Lyman Hall being accordingly admitted, produced his credentials,
which were read and approved, and are as follows:
“To the honorable gentlemen of the Congress, designed to be held at Philadelphia, on May A.D. 1775.
“The address of the inhabitants of the parish of St. John's, in the province
of Georgia.
“GENTLEMEN, .* i
w “To give a particular detail of our many struggles in the cause of liberty.
the many meetings thereby occasioned and field in this parish, the endeavours
We have used to induce the rest of this province to concur with us, the attend-
ance of our committee on the provincial conventions, held at Savannah, in this
Province, and particularly that of the 18th of January last, with their pro-
*eedings, and the reasons of our dissent from them, we think would be tedious
to you, and therefore send a summary abstract, which, with the account, that
*-
68 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
may be given by Lyman Hall, esq. appointed a delegate to represent and act
for this parish in the general Continental Congress, to be held in May next,
and the testimonies of the honorable delegates from South-Carolina, we hope
will be satisfactory.
“Immediately upon our being honored with an answer to the representation
of our case transmitted to the honorable Congress, which sat at Philadelphia
last year, with a copy of the association there entered into, we had a meeting,
and our proceedings then and since that time, will, in brief, appear from the
following abstracts of an address from this parish to the committee of corres-
pondence in Charleston, South-Carolina, which is as follows:
“GENTLEMEN, ~g
“Herewith will be communicated to you, the several steps taken by this
parish in their endeavours to conform, as near as possible, to the resolutions
entered into by the other colonies: and the particular measures now adopted,
for carrying into execution the continental association, which we embraced
the earliest opportunity of acceding to, by subscribing it; on condition that
trade and commerce with the other colonies be continued to us the subscribers;
and thereupon should have immediately sent to you for your approbation and
indulgence, but were delayed by a summons to attend a provincial Congress
in Savannah, on the 18th of January last, for the purpose, as we understood,
of a general association with the other colonies, . chusing delegates: at
which time and place we attended, and acquainted the other parishes, assem-
bled on that occasion, that we had already acceded to the general association,
on condition as abovementioned, and earnestly requested them to do the same.
Had they acceded fully to the general association, we should have had no
occasion to trouble you with this address; but, as they did not, we now apply
to you, to admit us, the subscribers, to an alliance with you, requesting that
you will allow trade and commerce to be continued to us, the same to be con-
ducted under such regulations and restrictions, as shall be consistent with
the continental association, and which, on our part, we engage, with all possi-
ble care, to keep inviolate. As we of this parish are a body detached from the
rest (i.e. of this province) by our resolutions, and sufficiently distinct by local
situation, large enough for particular notice, adjoining a particular port, and
in that respect, capable of conforming to the general association, if connected
with you, with the same fidelity as a distant parish of your own province; we
must be considered, as comprehended within the spirit and equitable meaning
of the continental association, and hope you will not condemn the innocent
with the guilty, especially when a due separation is made between them.
“Give us leave to add only, that we wait your answer, shall be glad of your
advice, and are with esteem,
“Gentlemen, yours, &c.”
St. John’s, 9th February, 1775.
To which we received the following answer:
“GENTLEMEN, t
“Your letter, accompanying sundry papers, having been laid before a very
full committee of this colony, and undergone the most mature deliberation,
I am, by their desire, to acquaint you, that they have the highest sense of
your arduous struggles in favour of the common cause of America; and most
sincerely lament your present unhappy situation; but would recommend a
continuance of your laudable exertions, and the laying a state of your case
before the ensuing Continental Congress, as the only means of obtaining relief,
and to put you in the situation you wish, which this committee apprehend to
be entirely out of their power to do; as it is their opinion, that the parish of
St. John, being a part º the colony of Georgia (which, by not acceding to,
has violated, the continental association) falls under the 14th article of the
said association, no part of which any committee can presume to do away, &c.”
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 69
—A-
“ Upon the receipt of this answer, it was seriously considered in what
manner to conduct in the present situation; and proposed, whether we should
immediately break off all connexion and commerce with Savannah, and all other
inhabitants of this province, who have not fully acceded to the continental as-
sociation.
“It was considered, that as we were denied commerce with any other colony,
and but one merchant among us considerable for dry goods, had signed our
association, and he insufficient for a present supply, and we utterly unable at
present to procure materials or manufactures for clothing among ourselves, we
must, by such a resolution, become extremely miserable; it was therefore con-
cluded, that till we could obtain trade and commerce with some other colony, it
is absolutely necessary to continue it in some respects with our own, and deter-
mined that it be carried on under the following regulations:
“ 1. That none of us shall directly or indirectly purchase any slave imported
at Savannah, (large numbers of which we understand are there expected,) till
the sense of the Congress shall be made known to us.
“2. That we will not trade at all with any merchant at Savannah, or else-
where, that will not join in our associating agreement, otherwise than under
the inspection of a committee, for that purpose appointed, and for such things
only as they shall judge necessary, and when they shall think there are neces-
sary reasons for so doing.
“A committee was then nominated, and appointed to sit weekly on Thurs-
days, for the purposes aforesaid.
“It was then resolved, that a delegate be sent from this parish to the Con-
gress, to be held at Philadelphia, in May next, and that Tuesday, the 21st of
March, be appointed for chusing one.
“On the said 21st of March, at a full meeting, Lyman Hall esq. was unan-
imously chosen, to represent and act for the inhabitants of this parish, as a
delegate at the general Congress, to be held in Philadelphia, in May next,
who are determined faithfully to adhere to, and abide by the determination of
him, and the other honorable inembers of the same.
“Signed by order of the inhabitants,
By DANIEL ROBERTS, and twenty others,
members of the committee.”
“ JMidway, St. John’s Parish, A
in the province of Georgia, April 13, J. D. 1775.”
A petition from the county of Frederick, in Virginia, addressed to the Con-
gress, was presented and read.
•Agreed, That it be referred to the committee on Monday.
Adjourned till Monday at nine o’clock.
MONDAY, JMay 15, 1775.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
Besides those who met at the opening of the Congress, the following mem-
bers attended; from New York, Mr. Jay, Mr. Wisner, Mr. Schuyler, Mr.
Slinton, Mr. Morris, and Mr. R. R. Livingston ; from Pennsylvania, Mr.
Wilson; from Maryland, Mr. Stone, and Mr. Goldsborough.
Upon motion,
•lgreed, That the secretary be allowed to employ Timothy Matlack, as a
clerk, he having first taken an oath, or affirmation, to keep secret the trans-
*ctions ºf the Congress, that may be entrusted to him, or may come to his
knowledge.
The city and county of New-York, having, through the delegates of that
Province, applied to Congress for advice how to conduct themselves with
*gard to the troops expected there, the Congress took the matter into consider-
§
70 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
ation. During their deliberations, it became necessary to take the opinion of
the Congress by colonies, upon which a question arose, whether the dele-
gate from the parish of St. John’s, in the colony of Georgia, could be admit-
ted to vote. After some debate on this question, the delegate from that parish
arose, and after observing, that the present distressful situation of American
affairs had induced a necessity of this Congress, which was composed of dele-
gates representing whole colonies; that as he did not represent a colony, but
only a part, he did not insist on giving a vote as a colony, but was contented
to hear and assist in the debates, and to give his vote in all cases, except when
the sentiments of the Congress, were taken by colonies.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the matter referred to
them; during the debate, Samuel Ward, esq., one of the delegates from
Rhode-Island, appeared and produced his credentials, which being read, were
approved, and are as follows.
By the honorable the general assembly of the English colony of Rhode-Island and Provi-
S. dence Plantations, in New-England, in America.
To the honorable Stephen Hopkins, esq. and the honorable Samuel Ward, esq. Greeting :
Whereas the general assembly of the colony aforesaid, have nominated and
appointed you, the said Stephen Hopkins and Samuel Ward, to represent the
people of this colony, in a general Congress of representatives, from this
and the other colonies, to be holden in the city of Philadelphia, and there, in
behalf of this colony, to meet, and join with the commissioners, or delegates
from the other colonies, in consulting upon proper measures to obtain a repeal
of the several acts of the British parliament, for levying taxes upon his majes-
ty’s subjects in America, without their consent; and upon proper measures
to establish the rights and liberties of the colonies, upon a just and solid
foundation, agreeable to the instructions given you by the general assembly.
By virtue of an act of the general assembly, l, Henry Ward, esq., secretary
of the said colony, have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said
colony, this seventh day of May, A. D. 1775, and in the fifteenth year of
the reign of his most sacred majesty George the third, by the grace of God,
king of Great-Britain, &c.
Signed, HENRY WARD.
The matter under consideration being resumed, the Congress
Resolved, That it be recommended, for the present, to the inhabitants of
New-York, that if the troops, which are expected, should arrive, the said colony.
act on the defensive, so long as may be consistent with their safety and secu-
rity; that the troops be permitted to remain in the barracks, so long as they
behave peaceably and quietly, but that they be not suffered to erect fortifica:
tions, or take any steps for cutting off the communication between the town and
country, and that if they commit hostilities or invade private property, the in-
habitants should defend themselves and their property, and repel force by force;
that the warlike stores be removed from the town; that places of retreat, in
case of necessity, be provided for the women and children of New-York; and
that a sufficient number of men be embodied, and kept in constant readiness
for protecting the inhabitants from insult and injury. *…*
Two memorials, one from Samuel Shoemaker, the other from James and
Drinker, merchants of this city, respecting some cargoes purchased by them,
and intended for Newfoundland, but which are stopped by the committee of
this city, were laid before the Congress, and read, and ordered to lie on the
table. *
Upon motion, |
Resolved, That Mr. Washington, Mr. Lynch, Mr. S. Adams, and the dele-
gates from New-York, be a committee, to consider what posts are necessary
to be occupied in the colony of New-York, and that they be desired to report
as speedily as possible,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 71
*—ur-
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into consideration the state of America.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
*
TUESDAY, JMay 16, 1775.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
A memorial from Robert and John Murray, of New-York, was laid before
the Congress, and read.
Ordered, To lie on the table. W
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of America; after
some time spent therein, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Tilghman
reported from the committee, that they had taken the matter referred to them
into consideration, but not having come to any resolution, desired him to move
for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the state of
America.
Adjourned till to-morrow at twelve o’clock.
WEDNESDAY, JMay 17, 1775.
The Congress met according to adjournment, and the order of the day being
postponed till to-morrow :
Upon motion,
Resolved unanimously, That all exportations to Quebec, Nova-Scotia, the
island of St. John’s, Newfoundland, Georgia, except the parish of St. John’s,
and to East and West Florida, immediately cease, and that no provision of
any kind, or other necessaries be furnished to the British fisheries on the
American coasts, until it be otherwise determined by the Congress.
Ordered, That this be published immediately.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
THURSDAY, JMay 18, 1775.
The Congress met according to adjournment. -
The honorable Stephen Hopkins, esq. from Rhode-Island, and Patrick
Henry, esq. from Virginia, attended and took their seats in Congress. . . -"
Upon motion, Resolved, That the rules of conduct, to be observed in de-
bating and determining questions, laid down by the last Congress, be adopted
and observed by the present Congress.
The president laid before the Congress, some important intelligence he received
last night, by express, relative to the surprising and taking of Ticonderoga, by
a detachment from Massachusetts-Bay and Connecticut, which was read.
. Upon motion, ſigreed, That Mr. Brown, who brought the express, be called
in : After he withdrew, the Congress, taking into consideration the letters and
intelligence communicated to them, W
Resolved, Whereas there is indubitable evidence, that a design is formed by
the British ministry, of making a cruel invasion from the province of Quebec,
upon these colonies, for the purpose of destroying our lives and liberties, and
Some steps have actually been taken to carry the said design into execution;
and, whereas, several inhabitants of the northern colonies, residing in the vi.
Sinity of Ticonderoga, and immediately exposed to incursions, impelled by a
just regard for the defence and preservation of themselves and their country-
men from such imminent dangers and calamities, have taken possession of that
Pºst, in which was lodged a quantity of cannon and military stores, that would
*rtainly have been used in the intended invasion of these colonies; this Con-
72 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
§
gress earnestly recommend it to the committees of the cities and counties of
New-York and Albany, immediately to cause the said cannon and stores to be
removed from Ticonderoga to the south end of lake George ; and, if necessary,
to apply to the colonies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, and Connecti-
cut, for such an additional body of forces as will be sufficient to establish a strong
post at that place, and effectually to secure said cannon and stores, or so many
of them as it may be judged proper to keep there. And that an exact inventory
be taken of all such cannon and stores, in order that they may be safely re-
turned, when the restoration of the former harmony between Great-Britain and
these colonies, so ardently wished for by the latter, shall render it prudent, and
consistent with the over-ruling law of self-preservation.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a com:
mittee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the state of
America. *
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
FRIDAY, JMay 19, 1775.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The committee appointed to consider what posts are necessary to be occupied
in the colony of New-York, and by what number of troops it will be proper
they should be guarded, brought in their report, which, being read, was referred
to the committee of the whole. ! ^
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved themselves into a
committee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of America, and
continued to do so, from day to day, till Wednesday the 24th, on which day
the honorable Peyton Randolph, president, being under a necessity of returning
home, and having set out this morning early, the chair was vacant, whereupon,
On motion, the honorable John Hancock, esq. was unanimously chosen
president. w $
The Congress then resolved themselves into a committee of the whole, to
take into consideration the state of America, and repeated the same on the
day following. -
FRIDAY, JMay 26, 1775.
The Congress being met according to adjournment, one of the delegates
from New-Jersey laid before them a minute from the journals of the assembly
of that colony, together with a resolution of the commons of Great-Britain,
which were read as follows:
“NEw JERSEy, House of AssFMBLY, JMay 20, 1775.
“His excellency having laid before the house, a copy of the resolution of
the honorable house of commons of Great-Britain, of the 20th of February,
1775, containing a plan formed for the accommodation of the unhappy differ-
ences between our parent state and the colonies; which plan, under the present
circumstances, this house, could not comply with and adopt, and yet this house
being desirous of making use of all proper means to effect a reconciliation, do
recommend it to their delegates to ". the same plan before the Continental
Congress, for their consideration. • ‘
“A true copy from the journals, * > *
“RICHARD SMITH, Clerk of Jissembly.”
Copy of a resolution of the house of commons, February 20, 1775.
“Itesolved, That when the governor, council and assembly, or general court,
of any of his majesty's provinces, or colonies, in America, shall propose to
make provision according to the condition, circumstances, and situations of
such province or colony, for contributing their proportion for the common de-
fence, (such proportion to be raised under the authority of the general court,
N.
4
* t
JOURNALS OF CONCRESS, 1775. 73
*—
or general assembly of such province or colony, and disposable by parliament.)
and shall engage to make provision also for the support of the civil government,
and the administration of justice, in such province or colony, it will be proper,
if such proposal shall be approved by his majesty, and the two houses of par-
liament, and for so long as such provision shall be made accordingly, to forbear,
in respect of such province or colony, to levy any duty, tax or assessment,
except only such duties as it may be expedient to continue to levy; or to im:
pose, for the regulation of commerce, the neat produce of the duties, last
mentioned, to be carried to the account of such province, or colony, respec-
tively.”
bird, That the above be referred to the committee for taking into con-
sideration the state of America.
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take
into consideration the state of America; after some time spent therein, the
president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported from the committee, that
they had come to some resolutions which he was desired to report, but not
having finished the business, desired him to move for leave to sit again.
The report from the committee being read, the Congress came into the fol-
lowing resolutions: g
Resolved unanimously, That his majesty’s most faithful subjects, in these
colonies, are reduced to a dangerous and critical situation, by the attempts of
the British ministry to carry into execution, by force of arms, several uncon-
stitutional and oppressive acts of the British parliament for laying taxes in
America; to enforce the collection of those taxes, and for altering and changing
the constitution and internal police of some of these colonies, in violation of
the natural and civil rights of the colonists.
Hostilities being actually commenced in the Massachusetts-Bay, by the
British troops, under the command of general Gage, and the lives of a number
of the inhabitants of that colony, destroyed, the town of Boston having not
only been long occupied as a garrisoned town in an enemy’s country, but the
inhabitants thereof treated with a severity and cruelty not to be justified even
towards declared enemies; large reinforcements too being ordered and soon
expected, for the declared purpose of compelling these colonies to submit to
the operation of the said acts; that therefore, for the express purpose of se-
curing and defending these colonies, and preserving them in safety against all
attempts to carry the said acts into execution, by force of arms, these colonies
be immediately put into a state of defence.
But, as we most ardently wish for a restoration of the harmony formerly sub-
sisting between our mother country and these colonies, the interruption of which
must, at all events, be exceedingly injurious to both countries, that with a sin-
cere design of contributing by all the means in our power, not incompatible with
a just regard for the undoubted rights and true interests of these colonies, to the
promotion of this most desirable reconciliation, an humble and dutiful petition
be presented to his majesty. - tº º tº
Resolved, That measures be entered into for opening a negotiation, in order to
accommodate the unhappy disputes subsisting between Great-Britain and these
colonies, and that this be ... a part of the petition to the king. *
Resolved unanimously, That the militia of New-York be armed and trained,
and in constant readiness to act at a moment’s warning; and that a number of
men be immediately embodied and kept in that city, and so disposed of as to
give protection to the inhabitants, in case any insult should be offered by the
troops, that may land there, and prevent any attempts that may be made to gain
possession of the city, and interrupt its intercourse with the country.
. Resolved unanimously, That it be recommended to the provincial conven-
tion at New-York, to persevere the more vigorously in preparing for their de-
fence, * it i. very uncertain whether the earnest endeavours of the Congress,
OL. I. I ()
}
74 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
f
rºº *...~~}
to accommodate the unhappy differences between Great-Britain and the colo-
nies, by conciliatory measures, will be successful.
Upon motion, Agreed, That Mr. Jay, Mr. S. Adams, and Mr. Deane, be a
committee to prepare and bring in a letter to the people of Canada. e
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into 4
committee of the whole, to take into farther consideration the state of
America.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
SATURDAY, JMay 27, 1775.
The Congress met according to adjournment. & \
The president laid before the Congress a letter from the convention of New-
Jersey, which was read, and referred to the committee of the whole. ,
Information being given, that there is a gentleman in town who can give a full
and just account of the state of affairs in Canada;
Ordered, That he be introduced, which was done.
The committee appointed to draught a letter to the inhabitants of Canada,
brought in the letter, which was read, and after some debate, re-committed to
the same committee. tº ºn tº
Upon motion, ſlgreed, That Mr. Washington, Mr. Schuyler, Mr. Mifflin,
Mr. Deane, Mr. Morris and Mr. S. Adams, be a committee, to consider on
ways and means to supply these colonies with ammunition and military
stores.
Upon motion, The memorial of Robert Murray and John Murray, “desirin
to be restored to their former situation with respect to their commercia
privileges,” was taken into consideration, and after some time spent thereon,
Resolved, That where any person hath been or shall be adjudged by a com:
mittee, to have violated the continental association, and such offender shall
satisfy the convention of the colony, where the offence was or shall be commit.
ted, or the committee of the parish of St. John’s, in the colony of Georgia, if
the offence be committed there, of his contrition for his offence, and sincere
resolution to conform to the association for the future, the said convention, or
committee of the parish of St. John’s aforesaid, may settle the terms upon
which he may be restored to the favour and forgiveness of the public, and that
the terms be published.
Ordered, That this be made public.
Resolved, That the order of the day be postponed till Monday.
Adjourned till Monday, at nine o’clock.
MONDAY, JMay, 29, 1775.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The committee, to whom the letter to the inhabitants of Canada, was re-
committed, brought in the same, which was read, and approved, and is as
follows:
A. To the oppressed inhabitants of Canada. Y
FRIENDS AND countryMEN,
Alarmed by the designs of an arbitrary ministry, to extirpate the rights and
liberties of all America, a sense of common danger conspired with the dictates
of humanity, in urging us to call your attention, by our late address, to this very
important object.
Since the conclusion of the late war, we have been happy in considering you
as fellow-subjects, and from the commencement of the present plan for subju-
gating the continent, we have viewed you as fellow-sufferers with us. As we
were both entitled by the bounty of an indulgent Creator to freedom, and being
both devoted by the cruel edicts of a despotic administration, to common ruin,
we perceived the fate of the Protestant and Catholic colonies to be strongly
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 75
*—
linked together, and therefore invited you to join with us in resolving to be free,
. º rejecting, with disdain, the fetters of slavery, however artfully
OllSIleſ .
r We most sincerely condole with you on the arrival of that day, in the course
of which, the sun could not shine on a single freeman in all your extensive do-
minions. Be assured, that your unmerited degradation has engaged the most
unfeigned pity of your sister colonies; and we flatter ourselves you will not,
by tamely bearing the yoke, suffer that pity to be supplanted by contempt.
When hardy attempts are made to deprive men of rights, bestowed by the
Almighty, when avenues are cut through the most solemn compacts for the
admission of despotism, when the plighted faith of government ceases to give
security to dutiful subjects, and when the insidious stratagems and manoeu-
wres of peace become more terrible than the sanguinary operations of war, it is
high time for them to assert those rights, and, with honest indignation, oppose
the torrent of oppression rushing in upon them.
By the introduction of your present form of government, or rather present
form of tyranny, you and your wives and your children are made slaves.
You have nothing that you can call your own, and all the fruits of your labor
and industry . be taken from you, whenever an avaricious governor and a
rapacious council may incline to demand them. You are liable by their edicts
to be transported into foreign countries to fight battles in which you have no
interest, and to spill your blood in conflicts from which neither honor nor emolu-
ment can be derived : Nay, the enjoyment of your very religion, on the present
system, depends on a legislature in which you have no share, and over which
you have no controul, and your priests are exposed to expulsion, banishment, and
ruin, whenever their wealth and possessions furnish sufficient temptation.
They cannot be sure that a virtuous prince will always fill the throne, and
should a wicked or careless king concur with a wicked ministry in extracting
the treasure and strength of your country, it is impossible to conceive to what
variety and to what extremes of wretchedness you may, under the present es-
tablishment, be reduced.
We are informed you have already been called upon to waste your lives in a
contest with us. Should you, by complying in this instance, assent to your
new establishment, and a war break out with France, your wealth and your sons
may be sent to perish in expeditions against their islands in the West-Indies.
It cannot be presumed that these considerations will have no weight with
you, or that you are so lost to all sense of honor. We can never believe that
the present race of Canadians are so degenerated as to possess neither the
spirit, the gallantry, nor the courage of their ancestors. You certainly will not
permit the infamy and disgrace of such pusillanmity to rest on your own heads,
and the consequences of it on your children forever. *.
We, for our parts, are determined to live free, or not at all; and are resolved,
. pºtent, shall never reproach us with having brought slaves into the
WOTICie
Permit us again to repeat that we are your friends, not your enemies, and
be not imposed upon by those who may endeavor to create animosities. The
taking of the fort and military stores at Ticonderoga and Crown-Point, and
the armed vessels on the lake, was dictated by the great law of self-preserva-
tion. They were intended to annoy us, and to cut off that friendly intercourse
and communication, which has hitherto subsisted between you and us. We
hope it has given you no uneasiness, and you may rely on our assurances, that
these colonies wil pursue no measures whatever, but such as friendship and a
regard for our mutual safety and interest may suggest.
As our concern for your welfare entitles us to your friendship, we presume
you will not, by doing us injury, reduce us to the disagreeable necessity of
treating you as enemies.
*
76 \ JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
--~
We yet entertain hopes of your uniting with us in the defence of our com-
mon liberty, and there is yet reason to believe, that should we join in imploring
the attention of our sovereign, to the unmerited and unparalleled oppressions
of his American subjects, he will at length be undeceived, and forbid a
licentious ministry any longer to riot in the ruins of the rights of mankind.
Ordered, That the º: etter be signed by the president.
Ordered, That Mr. Dickinson, and Mr. Mifflin, be a committee to get the
letter translated into the French language, and to have one thousand copies of
it, so translated, printed, in order to be sent to Canada, and dispersed among
the inhabitants there.
Upon motion, Resolved, That no provisions or necessaries of any kind be ex-
ported to the island of Nantucket, except from the colony of Massachusetts-
Bay, the convention of which colony is desired to take measures for effectually
providing the said island, upon their application to purchase the same, with as
much provision, as shall be necessary for its internal use, and no more.
The Congress deeming it of great importance to North-America, that the
British fishery should not be furnished with provisions from the continent
through Nantucket, earnestly recommend a vigilant execution of this resolve
to all committees.
Ordered, That the above resolve be immediately published.
As the present critical situation of the colonies renders it highly necessary
that ways and means should be devised for the speedy and secure conveyance
of intelligence from one end of the continent to the other,
Resolved, That Mr. Franklin, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Lee, Mr. Willing, Mr. S.
Adams, and Mr. P. Livingston, be a committee to consider the best means of
establishing post for conveying letters and intelligence through this con-
tinent.
Resolved, That the order of the day be postponed till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, at nine o’clock.
TUESDAY, JMay 30, 1775.
The Congress met according to adjournment. *
A member informed the Congress, that a gentleman, just arrived from Lon:
don, had brought with him a paper, which he says he received from Lord
North, and which was written, at the desire of his lordship, by Mr. Gre
Cooper, under-secretary to the treasury, and as the gentleman understood it
to be his lordship’s desire that it should be communicated to the Congress, for
that purpose he had put it into his hands. The member farther observed, that
he had shewn the paper to a member near him, who was well acquainted with
the hand writing of Mr. Cooper, and that he verily believes the paper was
written by Mr. Cooper. *
The paper being read, is as follows: §
“That it is earnestly hoped by all the real friends of the Americans, that
the terms expressed in the resolution of the 20th of February last, will be
accepted by all the colonies, who have the least affection for their king and
country, or a just sense of their own interest.
“That these terms are honorable for Great-Britain, affa safe for the colonies.
“That if the colonies are not blinded by faction, these terms will remove
every grievance relative to taxation, and be the basis of a compact between the
colonies, and the mother country. * t
“That the people in America ought, on every consideration, to be satisfied
with them. à
“That no further relaxation can be admitted.
“The temper and spirit of the nation are so much against concessions, that
if it were the intention of administration, they could not carry the question.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 77
“But administration have no such intention, as they are fully and firmly
persuaded, that further concessions would be injurious to the colonies as well
as to Great-Britain.
“That there is not the least probability of a change of administration.
“That they are perfectly united in opinion, and determined to pursue the
most effectual measures, and to use the whole force of the kingdom, if it be
found necessary, to reduce the rebellious and refractory provinces and co-
lonies.
“There is so great a º: in the nation against the Congress, that the people
will bear the temporary distresses of a stoppage of the American trade.
“They may depend on this to be true.”
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of America, and
continued so to do the day following, when after some time, the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported from the committee, that they had
proceeded in the business, but not having come to a conclusion, desired him to
move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the state of
America.
A letter from Col. Arnold, dated Crown-Point, May 23, 1775, was laid
before the Congress, informing that he had certain intelligence, that “on the
19th there were then four hundred regulars at St. John’s, making all possible
preparation to cross the lake, and expected to be joined by a number of In-
dians, with a design of re-taking Crown-point and Ticonderoga,” and earnestly
calling for a reinforcement and supplies. This letter being taken into consi-
deration,
Resolved, That the governor of Connecticut be requested immediately to
send a strong reinforcement to the garrisons of Crown-Point and Ticonderoga,
and that so many of the cannon and other stores be retained, as may be neces-
sary for the immediate defence of those posts, until further order from this
Congress, and that the provincial convention of New-York be informed of
this resolve, and desired to furnish those troops with provisions and other ne-
cessary stores, and to take effectual care that a sufficient number of batteaus
be immediately provided for the lakes. *
Ordered, That the above resolve be immediately transmitted in a letter by
the president, to governor Trumbull, and the convention at New-York.
Ordered, That the president in his letter acquaint governor Trumbull, that
it is the desire of Congress, that he should appoint a person, in whom he can
confide, to command the forces at Crown-Point and Ticonderoga.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
THURSDAY, June 1, 1775.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The committee appointed to consider ways and means to supply these colo-
nies with ammunition and military stores, brought in their report, which was
read, and referred to the committee of the whole.
Upon motion, Resolved, That it be recommended to the government of
Connecticut, or the general of the forces of that colony, to appoint commissaries
to receive at Albany and forward the supplies of provisions, for the forces on
lake Champlain, from the 'provincial convention of New-York, and that the
said convention use their utmost endeavors in facilitating and aiding the trans-
portation thereof, from thence to where the said commissaries may direct.
As this Congress has nothing more in view than the defence of these colonies,
Resolved, That no expedition or incursion ought to be undertaken or made,
by any colony, or body of colonists, against or into Canada; and that this
78 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
resolve be immediately transmitted to the commander of the forces at Ti-
conderoga.
Ordered, That the above resolve be translated into the French language,
and transmitted, with the letter, to the inhabitants of Canada.
Ordered, That the president transmit a copy of the above to New-York, and
the other colonies bordering on Canada.
A petition from the committee representing the people in that part of Au-
gusta county, in the colony of Virginia, on the west side of the Allegheny
mountain, was laid before the Congress and read, intimating “fears of a rup-
ture with the Indians on account of lord Dunmore’s conduct,” and desiring
“commissioners from the colony of Virginia, and province of Pennsylvania,
to attend a meeting of the Indians at Pittsburgh, on behalf of these colonies.”
Ordered, That the above be referred to the delegates of the colonies of Vir-
ginia and Pennsylvania. *
The Congress then, agreeable to the order of the day, resolved itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of America, and
after some time spent therein, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward
reported from the committee, that they had taken the matters referred to them,
into consideration, but not having yet come to a conclusion, desired him to
move for leave to sit again.
Itesolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the state of America.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
FRIDAY, June 2, 1775.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The president laid before the Congress a letter from the provincial conven-
tion of Massachusetts-Bay, dated May 16, which was read, setting forth the
difficulties they labour under for want of a regular form of government, and
as they and the other colonies are now compelled to raise an army to defend
themselves from the butcheries and devastations of their implacable enemies,
which renders it still more necessary to have a regular established government,
requesting the Congress to favour them with “explicit advice respecting the
taking up and exercising the powers of civil government,” and declaring their
readiness to “submit to such a general plan as the Congress may direct for
the colonies, or make it their great study to establish such a form of govern-
ment there, as shall not only promote their advantage, but the union and inte-
Fest of all America.”
Ordered, To lie on the table for farther consideration.
Doctor Benjamin Church being directed by the convention of Massachusetts-
Bay, to confer with the Congress respecting such matters, as may be necessary
to the defence of that colony, and particularly the state of the army therein;
Ordered, That he be introduced.
After he withdrew, an express arriving with despaches from Massachusetts-
Bay, the President laid before the Congress letters from the conventions of
that colony, and New-Hampshire, also from governor Trumbull, which were
read.
Upon motion, Resolved, that no bill of exchange, draught, or order of any
officer in the army or navy, their agents or contractors, be received, or nego-
tiated, or any money supplied to them by any person in America; ,
That no provisions or necessaries of any kind be furnished or supplied to, or
for the use of, the British army or navy, in the colony of Massachusetts-Bay;
That no vessel employed in transporting British troops to America, or from
one part of North America to another, or warlike stores or provisions for said
troops, be freighted or furnished with provisions or any necessaries, until
further orders from this Congress.
}
A
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 79
ordered, That the above resolves be immediately published.
The order of the day being postponed, the Congress adjourned till to-mor-
row at nine o’clock. -
SATURDAY, June 3, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
A letter from the convention of New-York, together with sundry letters and
papers enclosed, from Albany, were laid before the Congress and read.
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The letter from the convention of Massachusetts, dated the 16th May, be-
ing again read, & &
Resolved, That a committee of five persons be chosen to consider the same,
and report what in their opinion is the proper advice to be given to that com-
vention.
The following persons were chosen by ballot, to compose that committee,
viz: Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Jay, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. Lee.
ki Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to draught a petition to the
Ing.
That another committee of three be appointed to prepare an address to the
inhabitants of Great-Britain.
That another committee of four be appointed to prepare an address to the
people of Ireland.
That another committee of three be appointed to bring in the draught of a -,
letter to the inhabitants of Jamaica.
That another committee of five be appointed to bring in an estimate of the
money necessary to be raised. * >
The Congress then proceeded to chuse, by ballot, the several committees,
when Mr. Dickinson, Mr. Johnson, Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr. Jay, and Mr.
Franklin, were elected to compose the first; Mr. Lee, Mr. R. R. Livingston,
and Mr. Pendleton, for the second; Mr. Duane, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. S.
Adams, and Mr. J. Adams, for the third; Mr. Hooper, Mr. Wilson, and Mr.
Lynch, for the fourth; and Mr. Washington, Mr. Schuyler, Mr. Deane, Mr.
Cushing, and Mr. Hewes, for the fifth.
Adjourned till Monday at nine o’clock.
On Monday and Tuesday, the Congress met and adjourned, to give the
committees time to bring in their report.
WEDNESDAY, June 7, 1775.
The Congress met according to adjournment.
The committee appointed to make an estimate of the money necessary to
be raised, brought in their report, which was read and referred to the commit-
tee of the whole.
On motion, Resolved, That Thursday the 20th of July next, be observed
throughout the twelve United Colonies, as a day of humiliation, fasting and
prayer: and that Mr. Hooper, Mr. J. Adams, and Mr. Paine, be a committee to
bring in a resolve for that purpose.
The committee appointed to prepare advice in answer to the letter from
the convention of W.º. brought in their report, which was
read, and ordered to lie on the table for consideration.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved themselves into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the state of
America; after some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair ;
and Mr. Ward reported, that the committee had proceeded in the business re-
ferred to them, but not having come to a conclusion, desired him to move for
leave to sit again. s
§
80 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve themselves into
a committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the state of
America; and that this be a standing order till the business is completed.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
THURSDAY, June 8, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The Congress being informed, that a major Skene, with some other officers,
who arrived last evening, in a vessel from London, were, with their papers, in
the custody of the troops of this city; that the said Skene had lately been
appointed governor of the forts of Ticonderoga, and Crown-Point; that one of
the officers with him, is a lieutenant in the regulars, now in the province of
Quebec; and moreover, that the said Skene had declared, that he has authority
to raise a regiment in America ; from all this, apprehending that the said
Skene is a dangerous partizan of administration, and that his papers may
contain intelligence of ministerial designs against America, very important to
be known.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to examine the papers of the said
Skene and lieutenant, in their presence. t
That the committee consist of Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Deane, and Mr. Mifflin :
That the said committee be upon honor to conceal whatever, of a private
nature, may come to their knowledge by such examination; and that they
communicate, to this Congress, what they shall discover relative to the present
dispute, between Great-Britain and America. ~.
The remainder of the day being spent in a committee of the whole, on the
state of America, the Congress adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
FRIDAY June 9, 1775.
Met according to adjournment. *
The report of the committee, on the letter from the convention of Massa-
chusetts-Bay, being again read, the Congress came to the following resolu-
tion :
IResolved, That no obedience being due to the act of parliament for altering
the charter of the colony of Massachusetts-Bay, not to a governor, or a
lieutenant-governor, who will nor observe the directions of, but endeavour to
subvert that charter, the governor and lieutenant-governor of that colony are
to be considered as absent, and their offices vacant; and as there is no council
there, and the inconveniencies, arising from the suspension of the powers of
government, are intolerable, especially at a time, when general Gage hath
actually levied war, and is carrying on hostilities, against his majesty's
peaceable and loyal subjects of that colony; that, in order to conform, as near
as may be, to the spirit and substance of the charter, it be recommended to
, the provincial convention, to write letters to the inhabitants of the several
places, which are entitled to representation in assembly, requesting them to
chuse such representatives, and that the asssembly, when chosen, do elect
councillors; and that such assembly, or council, exercise the powers of govern-
ment, until a governor, of his majesty’s appointment, will consent to govera
the colony according to its charter. *
Ordered, that the president transmit a copy of the above to the convention
of Massachusetts-Bay.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
SATURDAY, June 10, 1775.
Met according to adjournment. *A
Sundry, letters, from Massachusetts-Bay, Ticonderoga, Crown-Point, &c.
being laid before the Congress, were read; and the same being taken into
consideration, the Congress came to the following resolutions:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 81
Resolved, That it be recommended to the several towns and districts in the
colonies of Massachusetts-Bay, New-Hampshire, Rhode-Island, and Provi-
dence Plantations, Connecticut, New-York, and the eastern division of New-
Jersey, to collect all the salt-petre and brimstone in their several towns
and districts, and transmit the same, with all possible despatch, to the provin-
cial convention at New-York.
That it be recommended to the provincial convention of the colony of
New-York, to have the powder-mills, in that colony, put into such a condition
as immediately to manufacture, into gun-powder, for the use of the continent,
whatever materials may be procured in the manner above directed.
That it be recommended to the committees of the western division of New-
Jersey, the colonies of Pennsylvania, lower counties on Delaware and Mary-
land, that they, without delay, collect the salt-petre and sulphur in their
respective colonies, and transmit the same for the committee of the city and
liberties of Philadelphia; to the end, that those articles may be immediately
manufactured into gun-powder, for the use of the continent.
That it be recommended to the conventions and committees of the colonies of
Virginia, North-Carolina and South-Carolina, that they, without delay, collect
the salt petre and sulphur in their respective colonies, and procure these arti-
cles to be manufactured, as soon as possible, into gun-powder, for the use of
the continent.
That it be recommended to the several inhabitants of the United Colonies,
who are possessed of salt-petre and sulphur, for their own use, to dispose them
for the purpose of manufacturing gun-powder.
That the salt-petre and sulphur, collected in consequence of the above re-
solves of Congress, be paid for out of the continental fund.
That Mr. Paine, Mr. Lee, Mr. Franklin, Mr. Schuyler and Mr. Johnson, be
a committee to devise ways and means to introduce the manufacture of salt-
petre in these colonies.
The committee for examining governor Skene’s letters, &c. having communi-
cated to Congress what they found relative to the dispute between Great-Britain
and these colonies;
Upon motion, Resolved, That governor Philip Skene, lieutenant Moncrief,
and Mr. Lundy be released from their present confinement, and permitted to
go at large any where within eight miles of the city, between Delaware and
Schuylkill, on their parole of honor, not to pass those limits, and that they
. hold no correspondence with any person whatsoever, on any political
subject.
That Mr. Gadsden be added to the committee for examining governor Skene's
. and that said committee have it in charge to execute the above
l'eSO1Ve. *
Adjourned till Monday at nine o’clock.
MONDAY, June 12, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The committee, appointed to prepare a resolution for a fast, brought in their
report, which, being read, was agreed to as follows:
As the great Governor of the world, by his supreme and universal provi-
dence, not only conducts the course of nature with unerring wisdom and recti-
tude, but frequently influences the minds of men to serve the wise and gracious
purposes of his providential government; and it being, at all times, our indis-
Pensable duty devoutly to acknowledge his superintending providence, espe-
cally in times of impending danger and public calamity, to reverence and
adore his immutable justice as well as to implore his merciful interposition for
our deliverance: g *
This Congress, therefore, considering the present critical, alarming and
* rate of these colonies, do earnestly recommend that Thursday, the
O I, , i. 1.1
82 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
—i.
20th day of July next, be observed, by the inhabitants of all the English
colonies on this continent, as a day of public humiliation, fasting and prayer;
that we may, with united hearts and voices, unfeignedly confess and deplore
our many sins; and offer up our joint supplications to the all-wise, omnipotent,
and merciful Disposer of all events; humbly beseeching him to forgive our
iniquities, to remove our present calamities, to avert those desolating judgments,
with which we are threatened, and to bless our rightful sovereign, #. George
the third, and to inspire him with wisdom to discern and pursue the true
interest of his subjects, that a speedy end may be put to the civil discord be-
tween Great-Britain and the American colonies, without farther effusion of
blood : And that the British nation may be influenced to regard the things that
belong to her peace, before they are hid from her eyes: That these colonies
may ever be under the care and protection of a kind Providence, and be pros-
pered in all their interests; that the divine blessing may descend and rest,
upon all our civil rulers, and upon the representatives of the people, in their
several assemblies and conventions, that they may be directed to wise and
effectual measures for preserving the union, and securing the just rights and
privileges of the colonies; that virtue and true religion may revive and flourish
throughout our land; and that all America may soon behold a gracious inter-
position of heaven, for the redress of her many grievances, the restoration of
her invaded rights, a reconciliation with the parent state, on terms constitu-
tional and honorable to both ; and that her civil and religious privileges may be
secured to the latest posterity. *
And it is recommended to Christians, of all denominations, to assemble for
public worship, and to abstain from servile labour and recreation on said day.
Ordered, That a copy of the above be signed by the president and attested by
the secretary, and published in the newspapers, and in hand-bills.
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take
into consideration the ways and means of raising money, and having spent
thereon the remainder of the day, and the day following, adjourned till Wed-
nesday at nine o’clock.
WEDNESDAY, June 14, 1775.
Met according to adjournment. & tº
Agreeable to the standing order of the day, the Congress resolved itself in-
to a committee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of America;
and after some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and
Mr. Ward reported, that the committee had come to certain resolutions, which
he was ordered to report; but not having come to a conclusion, they desired
him to move for leave to sit again.
The resolutions being read, were agreed to as follows: º • * >
Resolved, That six companies of expert riflemen, be immediately raised in
Pennsylvania, two in Maryland, and two in Virginia; that each company
consist of a captain, three lieutenants, four serjeants, four corporals, a drummer
or trumpeter, and sixty-eight privates. e
That each company, as soon as completed, march and join the army near
Boston, to be there employed as light-infantry, under the command of the chief
officer in that º: {º te
That the pay of the officers and privates be as follows, viz. a captain 30 dol-
lars per month; a lieutenant thirteen dollars and one-third of a dollar per
month; a serjeant eight dollars per month; a corporal seven dollars and one.
third of a dollar per month; a drummer or trumpeter the same ; privates sº
dollars and two-thirds of a dollar per month; to find their own arms and
clothes.
That the form of the enlistment be in the following words :
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 83
*
—A
--es-as-msm-
I have, this day, voluntarily enlisted myself, as
a soldier, in the American continental army, for one year, unless sooner dis-
charged: And I do bind myself to conform, in all instances, to such rules and
regulations, as are, or shall be, established for the government of the said army.
pon motion, Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to prepare
rules and regulations for the government of the army.
The following persons were chosen to compose that committee : Mr. Wash-
ington, Mr. Schuyler, Mr. Deane, Mr. Cushing, and Mr. Hewes.
A letter from the convention of New-York, dated 10th instant, respecting
a vessel which is stopped there, on suspicion of having on board provisions for
the army and navy at Boston, was read and referred to the delegates of Massa-
chusetts-Bay, Connecticut, and New-York.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into farther consideration the ways and means
of raising money, and the state of America. This to be a standing order, until
the business is completed.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
THURSDAY, June 15, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The committee, to whom the letter from the convention of New-York was
referred, brought in their report, which being read,
Resolved, That the thanks of this Congress be given to the convention of
New-York, for their vigilance in the case of capt. Coffin’s vessel, and that it
be recommended to them that the vessel be unloaded, and the cargo safely
. until all just suspicions, concerning the destination of it, shall be re-
II].OWed.
Ordered, That the above be transmitted, by the president, in a letter to the
chairman of the convention of New-York.
Agreeable to order, the Congress resolved itself into a committee of the
whole, and, after some time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward
reported, that the committee had come to some farther resolutions, which he
was ordered to report.
The report of the committee being reed and considered,
Resolved, That a general be appointed to command all the continental forces,
raised, or to be raised, for the defence of American liberty.
That five hundred dollars, per month, be allowed for the pay and expenses
of the general.
The Congress then proceeded to the choice of a general, by ballot, and
George Washington, esq. was unanimously elected.
Adjourned till to-morrow at eight o’clock.
FRIDAY, June 16, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The president informed col. Washington that the Congress had yesterday
unanimously made choice of him to be general and commander in chief of the
American forces, and requested he would accept of that employment; to
which colonel Washington, standing in his place, answered:
“MR. PRESIDENT, º
“Though I am truly sensible of the high honor done me, in this appointment,
yet I feel great distress, from a consciousness that my abilities and military
experience may not be equal to the extensive and important trust: However,
as the Congress desire it, I will enter upon the momentous duty, and exert
“very power I possess in their service, and for support of the glorious cause.
I beg they will accept my most cordial thanks for this distinguished testimony
of their approbation.
84 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
“But, lest some unlucky event should happen, unfavorable to my reputation,
I beg it may be remembered, by every gentleman in the room, that I, this day,
declare with the utmost sincerity, I do not think myself equal to the command
I am honored with. |
“As to pay, sir, I beg leave to assure the Congress, that, as no pecuniary
consideration could have tempted me to accept this arduous employment, at
the expense of my domestic ease and happiness, I do not wish to make an
profit from it. I will keep an exact account of my expenses. Those, I doubt
not, they will discharge, and that is all I desire.”
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to draught a commission and in-
structions for the general.
The persons chosen to compose the committee, were Mr. Lee, Mr. E. Rut-
ledge, and Mr. J. Adams.
The papers transmitted from the convention of New-York, being read,
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of five, and that they
report what steps, in their opinion, are necessary to be taken for securing and
preserving the friendship of the Indian nations.
The following persons were chosen for this committee, viz. Mr. Schuyler,
Mr. Henry, Mr. Duane, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. P. Livingston.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the report from the commit-
tee of the whole, and came to the following resolutions:
Resolved, That two major-generals be appointed for the American army.
That the pay of each of the major-generals be one hundred and sixty-six
dollars per month. *
That when any of these act in a separate department, he be allowed, for his
pay and expenses, three hundred and thirty-two dollars per month.
That there be eight brigadiers-general.
That the pay of each of the brigadiers-general be one hundred and twenty-
five dollars per month.
That there be one adjutant-general.
That his pay be one hundred and twenty-five dollars per month. *
That there be one commissary-general of stores and provisions.
That his pay be eighty dollars per month.
That there be one quarter-master-general for the grand army, and one deputy,
under him, for the separate army.
That the pay of the quarter-master-general be eighty dollars per month, and
that of the deputy forty dollars per month.
That there be one pay-master-general, and a deputy under him, for the army
in a separate department; that the pay, for the pay-master-general himself, be
one hundred dollars per month, and for the deputy pay-master, under him,
nº dollars per month.
hat there be one chief engineer at the grand army, and that his pay be
sixty dollars per month.
hat two assistants be employed under him, and that the pay of each of
them be twenty dollars per month.
That there be one chief engineer for the army, in a separate department,
and two assistants under him; that the pay of the chief engineer be sixty dol-
lars per month, and the pay of the assistants each, twenty dollars . month.
That there be three aids-de-camp; and that their pay be thirty-three dollars
er month each.
That there be a secretary to the general; and that his pay be sixty-six dollars
per month.
That there be a secretary to the major-general, acting in a separate depart-
ment; and that his pay be thirty-three dollars per month.
That there be a commissary of the musters.
That his pay be forty dollars per month.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 85
- †-º-º- ºr .-º-º:
A letter from the convention of New-York, received by express, was laid
before the Congress and read, and the same being taken into consideration,
Resolved, That the provincial convention of New-York, be desired imme-
diately to apply to governor Trumbull to order the Connecticut troops, now
stationed at Greenwich, Stanford, and parts adjacent, to march towards New-
York.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock,
SATURDAY, June 17, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The committee appointed to draught a commission to the general, reported
the same, which, being read by paragraphs and debated, was agreed to as
follows:
z IN CONGRESS.
The delegates of the United Colonies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode Island, Con-
necticut, New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, the counties of New-Castle, Kent, and Sussex, on
Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina, and South-Carolina;
To George Washington, Esq.
WE, reposing special trust and confidence in your patriotism, valor, con-
duct, and fidelity, do, by these presents, constitute and appoint you to be
general and commander in chief, of the army of the United Colonies, and of
all the forces now raised, or to be raised, by them, and of all others who shall
voluntarily offer their service, and join the said army for the defence of Ame-
rican liberty, and for repelling every hostile invasion thereof: And you are
hereby vested with full power and authority to act as you shall think for the
good and welfare of the service.
And we do hereby strictly charge and require all officers and soldiers, under
your command, to be obedient to your orders, and diligent in the exercise of
their several duties.
And we do also enjoin and require you, to be careful in executing the great
trust reposed in you, by causing strict discipline and order to be observed in
the army, and that the soldiers be duly exercised, and provided with all conve-
nient necessaries.
And you are to regulate your conductin every respect by the rules and dis-
cipline of war, (as herewith given you,) and punctually to observe and follow
such orders and directions, from time to time, as you shall receive from this, or
a future Congress of these United Colonies, or committee of Congress.
This commission to continue in force, until revoked by this, or a future
Congress.
By order of the Congress.
Ordered, That the same be fairly transcribed, signed by the president, at-
tested by the secretary, and delivered to the general.
Resolved unanimously, Whereas, the delegates of all the colonies, from
Nova-Scotia to Georgia, in Congress assembled, have unanimously chosen
George Washington, esq. to be general and commander in chief, of such forces
as are, or shall be, raised for the maintenance and preservation of American
liberty; this Congress doth now declare, that they will maintain and assist
him, and adhere to him, the said George Washington, with their lives and for-
tunes in the same cause.
b º: Congress then proceeded to the choice of the officers in the army by
all Ot, 3 *.
Artemus Ward, esq. was chosen first major-general.
Horatio Gates, esq. adjutant-general.
Resºlved, That Horatio Gates, esq. now chosen adjutant-general, shall
have the rank of brigadier-general.
Charles Lee, esq., second major-general.
Adjourned till Monday at nine o'clock.
86 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
MONDAY, June, 19, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The president laid before the Congress, sundry letters he had received from
Massachusetts-Bay and New-York, which were read.
Ordered, That Mr. Henry, Mr. Lynch, and Mr. J. Adams, be a committee to
wait upon general Lee, and to inform him of his appointment, and request his
answer, whether he will accept the command.
The committee returned and reported, that they had waited on general
Lee, and informed him of his appointment, and that he gave for answer ;
“That he had the highest sense of the honor conferred upon him by the
Congress ; that no effort in his power shall be wanting to serve the American
cause.”
The letters from Massachusetts-Bay being taken into consideration, the
Congress come to the following resolve :
That the governor of Connecticut be requested to direct all the forces raised
in that colony, not employed at Ticonderoga and Crown-Point, or recommend-
ed by this Congress to be marched towards New-York, to be immediately sent
to join the combined army before Boston: And it is earnestly recommended to
the colony of Rhode-Island, and to the provincial convention of New-Hamp-
shire, to send immediately to the army before Boston, such of the forces as are
already embodied, towards their quotas of the troops agreed to be raised by
the New-England colonies.
Itesolved, That Mr. Lee, Mr. E. Rutledge, and Mr. J. Adams, be a com-
mittee to prepare the form of a commission for the major-generals, also for
the brigadier-generals, and other officers in the army.
Resolved, That there be four major-generals.
The Congress then proceeded to chuse the two remaining major-generals,
when Philip Schuyler, esq. was chosen third major-general, and Israel Put-
nam, esq. was unanimously chosen fourth major-general.
The committee appointed to prepare the form of a commission for the major
and brigadier-generals, reported the same, which being agreed to,
Ordered, That a copy thereof be made out, signed by the president, and
attested by the secretary, for each of the major-generals and brigadier-gene-
rals.
Ordered, That the secretary get a number of commissions, with proper
s blanks, printed for the other officers.
The committee appointed to prepare a petition to the king, reported a
draught of one, which was read.
Adjourned till to-morrow nine o’clock.
TUESDAY, June 20, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
: The committee appointed to prepare instructions to the general, reported
the same, which being read and debated, were agreed to.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock, t
WEDNESDAY, June 21, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
Mr. Thomas Jefferson appeared as a delegate for the colony of Virginia,
and produced his credentials, which were read and approved, and are as fol-
w
lows:
At a convention of the delegates, for the counties and corporations in the
colony of Virginia, at the town of Richmond, in the county of Henrico, on
Monday, 27th March, 1775.
On a motion made, Resolved, That Thomas Jefferson, esq. be appointed a
deputy to represent this colony in general Congress, in the room of the hon-
o JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 87
*— ~-ºf
orable Peyton Randolph, esq. in case of the non-attendance of the said Peyton
Randolph, esq.
Attest, JOHN TAZEWELL, clerk of convention.
At a general assembly, began and held at the capitol, in the city of Wil-
liamsburgh, on Thursday, 1st June, in the fifteenth year of the reign of our
lord, George the third, by the grace of God, of Great-Britain, &c. A. D. 1775,
Monday, June 5, 15th G. III. 1775.
Resolved, JW. C. D. That this house doth entirely approve of the proceed-
ings and resolutions of the convention of delegates, for the couny and cor-
porations in the colony, of Virginia held at Richmond town, in the county of
Henrico, the 20th of March, 1775; and that it be recommended to all the
good people of this colony, strictly to conform to, and observe the same.
By the house of burgesses,
PEYTON RANDOLPH, Speaker.
Mr. Henry informed the Congress, that the general had put into his hand
sundry queries, to which he desired the Congress would give an answer.
The queries being read and debated,
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to prepare proper answers.
The persons chosen, were Mr. Deane, Mr. Henry, Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr.
S. Adams, and Mr. Lee.
On a motion made, Resolved, That the general be allowed three aids-de-
Caſſ) D.
That each of the major-generals have two aids-de-camp.
That their pay be thirty-three dollars per month each.
Adjourned tiſl to-morrow at nine o’clock.
THURSDAY, June 22, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The committee appointed to prepare answers to the general’s queries, report-
ed the same, which were read.
The Congress then came to the following resolutions:
Resolved, That the number of brigadier-generals be augmented to eight:
and the same were chosen by ballot, as follows: *
Seth Pomeroy, esq. first brigadier-general. Joseph Spencer, esq. fifth do.
Richard Montgomery, esq. second do. John Thomas, esq. sixth do.
David Worster, esq. third do, John Sullivan, esq., seventh do.
William Heath, esq. fourth do. Nathaniel Green, esq., eighth do.
Resolved, That the troops, including the volunteers, be furnished with camp
equipage, and blankets, where necessary, at the continental expense.
Resolved, That the officers, now in the army, receive their new commissions
through the hands of the general.
Itesolved, That a sum not exceeding two millions of Spanish milled dollars
be emitted by the Congress in bills of credit, for the defence of America.
Resolved, That the twelve confederated colonies be pledged for the redemption
of the bills of credit, now directed to be emitted.
Upon motion made, Resolved, That the colony of Pennsylvania raise two
more companies of riflemen, and that these, with the six before ordered to be
by them raised, making eight companies, be formed into a battalion, to be com-
manded by such field officers, captains and lieutenants, as shall be recom-
mended by the assembly or convention of said colony,
Adjourned till to-morrow nine o'clock.
TUESDAY, June 23, 1775.
Metaccording to adjournment.
I
N
88 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
-----> --> *
A letter from Crown-Point, dated June 10, was laid before the Congress and
read. Information being given, that two officers who brought the letter were
at the door, and had some things of importance to communicate,
Ordered, That they be introduced, and they were introduced. After they
withdrew, the Congress came to the following resolutions:
Resolved, That it be recommended to the oſficer commanding in the New-York
department, to procure, as soon as possible, a list of the men employed in tak-
ing and garrisoning Crown-Point and Ticonderoga, and keeping possession of
the lakes, and also of their disbursements, in order that they may be paid.
Resolved, That their pay be the same as that of the officers and privates in
the American army ; the highest of the officers not to exceed that of a captain,
and that the pay commence the third day of May last, and continue till they
are discharged.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention of New-York, that
they, consulting with general Schuyler, employ in the army to be raised for
the defen ce of America, those called Green Mountain Boys, under such officers
as the said Green Mountain Boys shall chuse:
On a motion made, Resolved, That a committee of five be chosen to draw
up a declaration, to be published by general Washington, upon his arrival at
the camp before Boston.
The committee chosen are Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Frank-
lin, Mr. Jay, and Mr. Johnson.
Agreeable to order, the Congress resolved itself into a committee of the
whole, to take into further consideration the state of America, and after some
time spent therein, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported
certain resolutions come into by them, and that not having yet finished, they
desired leave to sit again.
The report of the committee being read, was agreed to as follows:
Resolved, That the number and denomination of the bills to be emitted be
as follows:
49,000 bills of 8 dollars each—392,000 245,000 Brought up, 1,470,000
49,000 do. of 7 dollars each—343,000 49,000 do. of 3 dollars each—147,000
49,000 do. of 6 dollars each—294,000 49,000 do. of 2 dollars each— 98,000
- 49,000 do. of 5 dollars each—245,000 49,000 do. of 1 dollars each— 49,000
49,000 do. of 4 dollars each—196,000 11,800 do. of 20 dollars each—236,000
245,000 Carried up, $1,470,000 403,800 $2,000,000
Resolved, That the form of the bills be as follows:
CONTINENTAL CURRENCY.
No. Dollars.
THIS bill entitles the bearer to receive
Spanish milled dollars, or the value
thereof in gold or silver, according to the resolutions of the Congress, held at
Philadelphia, on the 10th day of May, A. D. 1775.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Adams, Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr. Duane, doctor Frank-
lin, and Mr. Wilson, be a committee to get proper plates engraved, to provide
paper, and to agree with printers to print the above bills.
The order for a committee of the whole renewed, and the Congress adjourn-
ed till to-morrow at nine o’clock. \
SATURDAY, June 24, 1775.
Met according to adjournment. *
On a motion made, Resolved, That a committee of seven be appointed to de-
vise ways and means to put the militia of America in a proper state for the
defence of America.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. ...” * 89
The members chosen are Mr. Paine, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Hep-
kins, Mr. Floyd, Mr. Gadsden, and Mr. Dickinson.
The committee º to prepare a declaration to be published by general
Washington, upon his arrival at the camp before Boston, brought in their re-
port, which was read and debated, and after some time referred for farther
consideration till Monday next.
Adjourned till Monday at nine o'clock.
MONDAY, June 26, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
A letter from governor Trumbull was read, and referred to the committee
appointed to devise ways and means for introducing the manufacture of salt-
petre into these colonies.
The state of North-Carolina being taken into consideration, the Congress
came to the following resolutions : .
Whereas it is represented to this Congress, that the enemies of the liberties
of America are pursuing measures to divide the good people of the colony of
North-Carolina, and to defeat the American association;
Resolved, That it be recommended to all in that colony, who wish well to
the liberties of America, to associate for the defence of American liberty, and
to embody themselves as militia, under proper officers.
Resolved, That in case the assembly or convention of that colony shall think
it absolutely necessary, for the support of the American association and safety
of the colony, to raise a body of forces not exceeding one thousand men, this
Congress will consider them as an American army, and provide for their pay.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the declaration, and after
Some debate,
Resolved, That it be re-committed, and that Mr. Dickinson and Mr. Jeffer-
son be added to the committee.
The committee for Indian affairs brought in their report, which was read.
Ordered, That the president write to governor Trumbull, and inform him,
and also the conventions of New-Hampshire and Massachusetts-Bay, and the
government of Rhode-Island, that the Congress have appointed George Wash-
ington, esq. commander in chief of all the forces raised, or to be raised, for the
defence of America.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
TUESDAY, June 27, 1775.
Met according to adjournment. 2
On motion made, Resolved, That governor Skene be sent under a guard to
Weathersfield, or Middletown, in the county of Hartford, in Connecticut, there
to be confined on his parole, not to go out of the bounds prescribed to him
by governor Trumbull. --
Ordered, That the delegates for Pennsylvania take measures to have the
above resolve carried into execution.
A letter from the convention of Massachusetts-Bay, received by express, was
laid before the Congress and read. &
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the state of affairs in the
New-York department, and after some time spent therein, came to certain re-
solutions, which were ordered to be immediately transmitted to general Schuy-
ler for his direction. w”
The committee appointed to draw up an address to the inhabitants of Great-
Britain, reported the same, which was read.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
VoI. I. | Q
*
90 Journ ALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
\
WEDNESDAY, June 28, 1775.
Met according to adjournment. º
The committee appointed to prepare 'a draught of rules and regulations for
the government of the army, reported the same, which was read, and taken
into consideration. And the remainder of the day, and the day following,
being spent thereon, adjourned till the next day at mine o’clock.
FRIDAY, June 30, 1775.
Met according to adjournment. &
The Congress resumed the consideration of the rules and regulations, which
being gone through, were agreed to as follows:
Whereas his majesty's most fathful subjects in these colonies are reduced
to a dangerous and critical situation, by the attempts of the British ministry,
to carry into execution, by force of arms, several unconstitutional and oppres- .
sive acts of the British parliament for laying taxes in America, to enforce the
collection of those taxes, and for altering and changing the constitution and
internal police of some of these colonies, in violation of the natural and civil
rights of the colonies. W s
And whereas hostilities have been actually commenced in Massachusetts-
Bay, by the British troops, under the command of general Gage, and the lives
of a number of the inhabitants of that colony destroyed; the town of Boston
not only having been long occupied as a garrisoned town in an enemy’s coun-
try, but the inhabitants thereof treated with a severity and cruelty not to be
justified even towards declared enemies.
And whereas läge reinforcements have been ordered, and are soon expected,
for the declared purpose of compelling these colenies to submit to the opera-
tion of the said acts, which hath rendered it necessary, and an indispensable
duty, for the express purpose of securing and defending these colonies, and
preserving them in safety against all attempts to carry the said acts into execur-
tion, that an armed force be raised sufficient to defeat such hostile designs, and
reserve and defend the lives, liberties and immunities of the colonists: for
the due regulating and well ordering of which ;
Resolved, That the following rules and orders be attended to, and ob-
served by such forces as are or may hereafter be raised for the purposes afore.
said. tº *
Jīrticle I. That every officer who shall be retained, and every soldier who
shall serve in the continental army, shall, at the time of his acceptance of his
commission or inlistment, subscribe these rules and regulations. And that the
officers and soldiers, already of that army, shall also, as soon as may be, sub-.
scribe the same; from the time of which subscription every officer and soldier,
shall be bound by those regulations. But if any of the officers or soldiers, now
of the said army, do not subscribe these rules and regulations, then they may
be retained in the said army, subject to the rules and regulations under which
they entered into the service, or be discharged from the service, at the option
of the commander in chief. !
II. It is earnestly recommended to all officers and soldiers, diligently to
attend divine service; and all officers and soldiers who shall behave indecentlv
or irreverently at any place of divine worship, shall, if commissioned officers,
be brought before a court-martial, there to be publicly and severely reprimand-
ed by the president; if non-commissioned officers or soldiers, every person
so offending, shall, for his first offence, forfeit one-sixth of a dollar, to be de-
ducted out of his next pay; for the second offence, he shall not only forfeit a
ſike sum, but be confined for twenty-four hours, and for every like offence,
shall suffer and pay in like manner; which money so forfeited, shall be ap-
plied to the use of the sick soldiers of the troop or company to which the
offender belongs. |
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 91
III. Whatsoever non-commissioned officer or soldier shall use any profane
oath or execration, shall incur the penalties expressed in the foregoing article;
and if a commissioned officer be thus guilty of profane cursing or swearing,
he shall forfeit and pay for each and every such offence, the sum of four shil-
lings, lawful money.
IV. Any officer or soldier, who shall behave himself with contempt or dis-
respect towards the general or generals, or commanders in chief of the conti-
mental forces, or shall speak false words, tending to his or their hurt or disho-
nor, shall be punished according to the nature # his offence, by the judgment
of a general court-martial.
V. Any officer or soldier, who shall begin, excite, cause, or join in any
mutiny or sedition, in the regiment, troop, or company to which he belongs,
or in any other regiment, troop or company of the continental forces, either by
land or sea, or in any part, post, detachment, or guard, on any pretence what-
soever, shall suffer such punishment, as by a general court-martial shall be
ordered.
VI. Any officer, non-commissioned officer, or soldier, who being present at
any mutiny or sedition, does not use his utmost endeavours to suppress the
same, or coming to the knowledge of any mutiny, or intended mutiny, does not,
without delay, give information thereof to the commanding officer, shall be
º by order of a general court-martial, according to the nature of his
OlíðIl Cé.
VII. Any officer or soldier, who shall strike his superior officer, or draw,
or offer to draw, or shall lift up any weapon, or offer any violence against him,
being in the execution of his office, on any pretence whatsoever, or shall dis-
obey any lawful commands of his superior officer, shall suffer such punishment
as shall, according to the nature of his offence, be ordered by the sentence of a
general court-martial:
VIII. Any non-commissioned officer, or soldier, who shall desert, or without
leave of his commanding officer, absent himself from the troop or company to
which he belongs, or from any detachment of the same, shall, upon being con-
victed thereof, be punished according to the nature of his offence, at the discre-
tion of a general court-martial.
IX. Whatsoever officer, or soldier, shall be convicted of having advised or
persuaded any other officer or soldier, to desert, shall suffer such punishment,
as shall be ordered by the sentence of a general court-martial.
X. All officers, of what condition soever, shall have power to part and quell
all quarrels, frays, and disorders, though the persons concerned, should belong
to another regiment, troop, or company; and either order officers to be arrested,
or non-commissioned officers, or soldiers, to be confined and imprisoned, till
their proper superior officers shall be acquainted therewith : and whoever shall
refuse to obey such officer, (though of an inferior rank,) or shall draw his
sword upon him, shall be punished at the discretion of a general court-martial.
XI. No officer or soldier shall use any reproachful or provoking speeches or
gestures to another, nor shall presume to send a challenge to any person to
fight a duel: And whoever shall, knowingly and willingly, suffer any person
whatsoever to go forth to fight a duel, or shall second, promote, or carry any
challenge, shall be deemed as a principal; and whatsoever officer or soldier shall
ºpbraid another for refusing a challenge, shall also be considered as a chal-
lenger; and all such offenders, in any of these or such like cases, shall be
punished at the discretion of a general court-martial.
XII. Every officer, commanding in quarters or on a march, shall keep good
order, and, to the utmost of his power, redress all such abuses or disorders
which may be committed by any officer or soldier under his command : If upon
any complaint being made to him, of officers or soldiers beating, or otherwise
ill-treating any person, or of committing any kind of riot, to the disquieting
N.
92 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
of the inhabitants of this continent; he the said commander, who shall refuse
or omit to see justice done on the offender or offenders, and reparation made
to the party or parties injured, as far as the offender’s wages shall enable him
or them, shall, upon due proof thereof, be punished as ordered by a general
court-martial, in such manner as if he himself had committed the crimes or
disorders complained of.
XIII. If any officer should think himself to be wronged by his colonel or
the commanding officer of the regiment, and shall, upon due application made
to him, be refused to be redressed, he may complain to the general or com-
mander in chief of the continental forces, in order to obtain justice, who is
hereby required to examine into said complaint, and see that justice be done.
XIV. If any inferior officer or soldier, shall think himself wronged by his
captain or other officer commanding the troop or company to which he belongs,
he is to complain thereof to the commanding officer of the regiment, who is
hereby required to summon a regimental court-martial, for the doing justice to
the complainant; from which regimental court-martial, either party may, if he
thinks himself still aggrieved, appeal to a general court-martial ; but if, upon
a second hearing, the appeal shall appear to be vexatious and groundless, the
}. so appealing, shall be nºt at the discretion of the general court-
martial.
XV. Whatsoever non-commissioned officer or soldier, shall be convicted, at
a regimental court-martial, of having sold, or designedly, or through neglect,
wasted the ammunition, arms, or provisions, or other military stores, delivered
out to him, to be employed in the service of this continent, shall, if an officer,
be reduced to a private sentinel; and if a private soldier, shall suffer such
unishment as shall be ordered by a regimental court-martial.
XVI. All non-commissioned officers and soldiers, who shall be found one
mile from the camp, without leave in writing from their commanding officer,
shall suffer such punishment as shall be inflicted on him or them by the sentence
of a regimental court-martial.
XVII. No officer or soldier shall lie out of his quarters or camp, without
leave from the commanding officer of the regiment, upon penalty of bein
punished according to the nature of his offence, by order of a łºi
court-martial.
XVIII. Every non-commissioned officer and soldier shall retire to his quar-
ters, or tent, at the beating of the retreat; in default of which, he shall be
* according to the nature of his offence, by order of the commanding
OIII CCI”.
XIX. No officer, non-commissioned officer or soldier, shall fail of repairing,
at the time fixed, to the place of parade or exercise, or other rendezvous ap-
pointed by the commanding officer, if not prevented by sickness or some other
evident necessity; or shall go from the said place of rendezvous, or from his
guard, without leave from his commanding officer, before he shall be regularly
dismissed or relieved, on penalty of being punished according to the nature of
his offence, by the sentence of a regimental court-martial.
XX. Whatsoever commissioned officer shall be found drunk on his guard,
party, or duty, under arms, shall be cashiered for it; any non-commissioned
officer or soldier so offending, shall suffer such punishment as shall be ordered
by the sentence of a regimental court-martial.
XXI. Whatsoever sentinel shall be found sleeping upon his post, or shall
leave it before he shall be regularly relieved, shall suffer such punishment as
shall be ordered by the sentence of a general court-martial.
XXII. Any person belonging to the continental army, who, by discharging
of fire arms, beating of drums, or by any other means whatsoever, shall occa-
sion false alarms, in camp or quarters, shall suffer such punishment as shall be
ordered by the sentence of a general court-martial.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 03
XXIII. Any officer or soldier, who shall, without urgent necessity, or with:
out leave of his superior officer, quit.his platoon or division, shall be punished
according to the nature of his offence, by the sentence of a regimental court-
martial.
XXIV. No officer or soldier shall do violence, or offer any insult, or abuse,
to any person who shall bring provisions, or other necessaries, to the camp or
quarters of the continental army; any officer or soldier so offending, shall,
upon complaint being made to the commanding officer, suffer such punishment
as shall be ordered by a regimental court-martial.
XXV. Whatsoever officer or soldier shall shamefully abandon any post
committed to his charge, or shall speak words inducing others to do the like,
in time of an engagement, shall suffer death immediately.
XXVI. Any person belonging to the continental army, who shall make
known the watch-word to any person who is not entitled to receive it, accord-
ing to the rules and discipline of war, or shall presume to give a parole, or
watch-word, different from what he received, shall suffer death, or such other
punishment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a general court-martial.
XXVII. Whosoever belonging to the continental army, shall relieve the
enemy with money, victuals, or ammunition, or shall knowingly harbor or
protect an enemy, shall suffer such punishment as by a general court-martial
shall be ordered. g
XXVIII. Whosoever belonging to the continental army, shall be convicted
of holding correspondence with, or of giving intelligence to, the enemy, eithel
directly or indirectly, shall suffer such punishment as by a general court-
martial shall be ordered.
XXIX. All public stores taken in the enemy’s camp or magazines, whether
of artillery, ammunition, clothing, or provisions, shall be secured for the use
of the United Colonies.
XXX. If any officer or soldier shall leave his post or colors, in time of an
engagement, to go in search of plunder, he shall, upon being convicted thereof
before a general court-martial, suffer such punishment as by the said court-
martial shall be ordered.
XXXI. If any commander of any post, intrenchment, or fortress, shall be
compelled, by the officers or soldiers under his command, to give it up to the
enemy, or to abandon it, the commissioned officer, non-commissioned officers,
or soldiers, who shall be convicted of having so offended, shall suffer death, of
such other punishment as may be inflicted upon them by the sentence of a ge-
neral court-martial.
XXXII. All suttlers and retailers to a camp, and all persons whatsoever,
serving with the continental army in the field, though not inlisted soldiers, are
to be subject to the articles, rules, and regulations of the continental arm Y.
XXXIII. No general court-martial shall consist of a less number than
thirteen, none of which shall be under the degree of a commissioned officer;
and the president shall be a field officer: And the president of each and every
court-martial, whether general or regimental, shall have power to administer
an oath to every witness, in order to the trial of offenders. And thé members
of all courts-martial shall be duly sworn by the president; and the next in rank
on the court-martial, shall administer the oath to the president.
XXXIV. The members, both of general and regimental courts-martial,
shall, when belonging to different corps, take the same rank which they hold
in the army ; but when courts-martial shall be composed of officers of one
ºorps, they shall take their ranks according to their commissions by which
they are mustered in the said corps.
XXXV. All the members of a court-martial, are to behave with calmness,
ecency, and impartiality; and in giving of their votes, are to begin with
the youngest on lowest in commission. &
94 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
XXXVI. No field officer shall be tried by any person under the degree of a
captain ; nor shall any proceedings or trials be carried on, excepting between
the hôurs of eight in the morning, and three in the afternoon, except in cases
which require an immediate example.
XXXVII. The commissioned officers of every regiment may, by the appoint-
ment of their colonel or commanding officer, {j regimental courts-martial
for the enquiring into such disputes or criminal matters as may come before
them, and for the inflicting corporeal punishment, for small offences, and shall
give judgment by the majority of voices; but no sentence shall be executed
till the commanding officer (not being a member of the court-martial) shall
have confirmed the same.
XXXVIII. No regimental court-martial shall consist of less than five offi-
cers, excepting in cases where that number cannot be conveniently assembled,
when three may be sufficient; who are likewise to determine upon the
sentence by the majority of voices; which sentence is to be confirmed by the
commanding officer, not being a member of the court-martial.
XXXIX. Every officer, commanding in any fort, castle, or barrack, or else-
where, where the corps under his command consists of detachments from dif-
ferent regiments or of independent companies, may assemble courts-martial
for the trial of offenders in the same manner as if they were regimental, whose
sentence is not to be executed till it shall be confirmed by the said command-
ing officer.
XL. No person whatsover shall use menacing words, signs, or gestures in
the presence of a court-martial then sitting, or shall cause any disorder or riot,
so as to disturb their proceeding, on the penalty of being punished at the discre-
tion of the said court-martial. *
XLI. To the end that offenders may be brought to justice; whenever any
officer or soldier shall commit a crime deserving punishment, he shall, by
his commanding officer, if an officer, be put in arrest; if a non-commissioned
officer or soldier, be imprisoned till he shall be either tried by a court-martial,
or shall be law fully discharged by proper authority.
XLII. No officer or soldier who shall be put in arrest, or imprisonment, shall
continue in his confineinent more than eight days, or till such time as a court-
martial can be conveniently assembled.
XLII?. No officer commanding a guard, or provost-marshal, shall refuse to
receive or keep any prisoner committed to his charge, by an officer belonging to
the continental forces; which officer shall at the same time deliver an account
in writing, signed by himself, of the crime with which the said prisoner is
charged. *
XLIV. No officer commanding a guard, or provost-marshal, shall presume
to release any prisoner committed to his charge, without proper authority for
so doing; nor shall he suffer any prisoner to escape, on the penalty of being pun-
ished for it, by the sentence of a general court-martial.
XLV. Every officer or provost-marshal, to whose charge prisoners shall be
committed, is hereby required, within twenty-four hours after such commit-
ment, or as soon as he shall be relieved from his guard, to give in writing to
the colonel of the regiment to whom the prisoner belongs (where the prisoner
is confined upon the guard belonging to the said regiment, and that his offence
only relates to the neglect of duty in his own corps) or to the commander in chief,
their names, their crimes, and the names of the officers who committed them,
on the penalty of being punished for his disobedience or neglect, at the discretion
of a general court-martial. *
XLVI. And if any officer under arrest shall leave his confinement before
he is set at liberty by the officer who confined him, or by a superior power,
he shall be cashiered for it. #
Xi,VII. Whatsoever commissioned officer shall be convicted before a gen-
eral court-martial, of behaving in a scandalous, infamous manner, such as is
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 95
unbecoming the character of an officer and a gentleman, shall be discharged
from the service. -
XLVIII. All officers, conductors, gunners, matrosses, drivers, or any other
persons whatsoever, receiving pay or hire, in the service of the continental artil-
fery, hall be governed by the aforesaid rules and articles, and shall be subject to
be tried by courts-martial, in like manner with the officers and soldiers of the
continental troops.
XLIX. For fºrences arising amongst themselves, or in matters relating
solely to their own corps, the courts-martial may be composed of their own
officers; but where a number sufficient of such officers cannot be assembled,
or in matters wherein other corps are interested, the officers of artillery shall
sit in courts-martial, with the officers of the other corps.
L. All crimes, not capital, and all disorders and neglects, which officers and
soldiers may be guilty of, to the prejudice of good order and military discipline,
though not mentioned in the articles of war, are to be taken cognizance of b
a general or regimental court-martial, according to the nature and degree of the
offence, and be punished at their discretion. -
LI. That no persons shall be sentenced by a court-martial to suffer death,
except in the cases expressly mentioned in the foregoing articles; nor shall
any punishment be inflicted at the discretion of a court-martial, other than de-
grading, cashiering, drumming out of the army, whipping not exceeding
thirty-nine lashes, fine not exceeding two months pay of the offender, imprison:
ment not exceeding one month. .
LII. The field officers of each and every regiment are to appoint some
suitable person belonging to such regiment, to receive all such fines as may arise
within the same, for any breach of any of the foregoing articles, and shall di-
rect the same to be carefully and properly applied to the relief of such sick,
wounded, or necessitous soldiers as belong to such regiment ; and such person
shall account with such officer for all fines received, and the application-
thereof.
LIII. All members sitting in courts-martial shall be sworn by the president
of said courts, which president shall himself be sworn by the officer in said
court next in rank:-The oath to be administered previous to their proceeding
to the trial of any offender, in form following, viz. {
“You A. B. swear that you will well and truly try, and impartially deter-
mine the cause of the prisoner now to be tried, according to the rules for regu-
lating the continental army. So help you God.” -
LIV. All persons called to give evidence, in any case, before a court-martial,
who shall refuse to give evidence, shall be punished for such refusal at the dis’
cretion of such court-martial —The oath to be administered in the following
form, viz.
“You swear the evidence you shall give in the case now in hearing, shall be
the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. So help you God.”
LV. Every officer commanding a regiment, troop, or company, shall, upon
notice given to him by the commissary of the musters, or from one of his de-
Puties, assemble the regiment, troop, or company under his command, in the
next convenient place for their being mustered.
I-VI. Every colonel or otherfield officer, or officer commanding any corps, to
which there is no field officer, and actually residing with it, may give furloughs
tº non-commissioned officers and soldiers, in such numbers, and for so long a
time, as he shall judge to be most consistent with the good of the service; 5ut
nº non-commissioned officer or soldier shall, by leave of his captain, or inferior
officer, commanding the troop, or company (his field officer not being present)
be absent above twenty days in six months, nor shall more than two private
then be absent at the same time from their troop or company, excepting some
extraordinary occasion should require it, of which occasion the field officer
Present with, and commanding the regiment or independent corps, is to be judge.
^
36 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
---
LVII. At every muster the commanding officer of each regiment, troop, or
company, then present, shall give to the commissary of musters certificates
signed by himself, signifying how long such officers, non-commissioned officers,
and soldiers, who shall not appear at the said muster, have been absent, and
the reason of their absence; which reasons, and the time of absence, shall be
inserted in the muster-rolls, opposite to the respective names of such absentees:
The said certificates shall, together with the muster-rolls, be by the said com-
missary transmitted to the general, and to this or any future Congress of the
United Colonies, or committee appointed thereby, within twenty days next after
such muster being taken; on failure whereof, the commissary so offending shall
be discharged from the service.
LWiLI. ºvery officer who shall be convicted before a general court-martial
of having signed a false certificate, relating to the absence of either officers,
non-commissioned officer, or private soldier, shall be cashiered.
LIX. Every officer, who shall knowingly make a false muster of man or
horse, and every officer or commissary who shall willingly sign, direct, or
allow the signing of the muster-rolls, wherein such false muster is contained,
shall, upon proof made thereof, by two witnesses, before a general court-mar-
tial, be cashiered, and moreover forfeit all such pay as may be due to him at the
time of conviction for such offence. * f z
LX. Any commissary who shall be convicted of having taken any gift or .
gratuity on the mustering any regiment, troop or company, or on the signing
the muster-rolls, shall be displacéd from his office, and forfeit his pay, as in
the preceding article. . .
LXI. Any officer who shall presume to muster any person as a soldier, who
is at other times accustomed to wear a livery, or who does not actually do his
duty as a soldier, shall be deemed guilty of having made a false muster, and
- shall suffer accordingly.
LXII. Every officer who shall knowingly make a false return to the com-
mander in chief of the American forces, or to any his superior, officer, autho-
rized to call for such returns, of the state of the regiment, troop, independent
company, or garrison under his command, or of arms, ammunition, clothing,
or other stores thereunto belonging, shall, by a court-martial, be cashiered.
LXIII. The commanding officer of every regiment, troop, independent
company, or garrison, in the service aforesaid, shall, in the beginning of every
month, remit to the commander in chief of said forces, an exact return of
the state of the regiment, troop, independent company, or garrison under his
command, specifying the names of the officers not them residing at their posts,
and the reason for, and the time of their absence: whoever shall be convicted
of having, through neglect or design, omitted the sending such returns, shall
be punished according to the nature of his crime, by the judgment of a general
court-martial.
LXIV. No Suttler shall be permitted to sell any kind of liquors or victuals,
or to keep their houses or shops open, for the entertainment of soldiers, after nine
at night, or before the beating of the reveilles, or upon Sundays, during divine
service or sermon, on the penalty of being dismissed from all future suttling.
LXV. All officers commanding in the camp, or in any forts, barracks, or gar-
risons, are hereby required to see that the persons permitted to suttle shall
supply the soldiers with good and wholesome provisions at a reasonable price,
as they shall be answerable for their neglect.
LXVI. No officers commanding in any camp, garrisons, forts, or barracks,
shall either themselves exact exorbitant prices for houses or stalls let out to
suttlers, or shall connive at the like exactions in others, nor lay any duty or
impositions upon, or be interested in the sale of such victuals, liquors, or other
necessaries of life, which are brought into the camp, garrison, fort or barracks,
for the use of the soldiers, on the penalty of being discharged from the service.
t
…”
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 97
~w-TFE
—T-
LXVII. That the general, or commander in chief for the time being, shall
have full power of pardoning, or mitigating any of the punishments ordered to
be inflicted, for any of the offences ...} in the foregoing articles; and
every offender, convicted as aforesaid, by any regimental court-martial, may
be pardoned, or have his punishment mitigated by the colonel or officer com-
manding the regiment.
LXVIII. When any commissioned officer shall happen to die, or be killed
in the service of the §. Colonies, the major of the regiment, or the officer
doing the major's duty in his absence, shall immediately secure all his effects
or equipage, then in camp or quarters; and shall, before the next regimental
court-martial, make an inventory thereof, and forthwith transmit to the office
of the secretary of the Congress, or assembly of the province in which the corps
is stationed or shall happen to be at the time of the death of such officer; to
the end that his executors may, after payment of his debts in quarters, and
interment, receive the overplus, if any be, to his or their use.
LXIX. When any non-commissioned officer or private soldier, shall happen
to die, or be killed in the service of the United Colonies, the then commanding
officer of the troop or company, shall, in the presence of two other commis-
sioned officers, take an account of whatever eft. he dies possessed of, and
transmit the same, as in the case above provided for, in order that the same
may be secured for, and paid to their respective representatives.*
*IN CONGRESS, JYovember 7, 1775.
Resolved, That the following additions and alterations or amendments, be made in the
RULLs and REGULATIONs of the continental army.
1. All persons convicted of holding a treacherous correspondence with, or giving intelli-
gence to the enemy, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as a general court-martial
shall think proper
2. All commissioned officers found guilty by a general court-martial of any fraud or em-
bezzlement, shall forfeit all his pay, be ipso facto cashiered, and deemed unfit for further
service as an officer.
3. All non-commissioned officers and soldiers, convicted before a regimental court-martial
of stealing, embezzling or destroying ammunition, provision, tools, or any thing belonging
to the public stores, if a non-commissioned officer, to be reduced to the ranks, and punished
with whipping, not less than fifteen, nor more than thirty-nine lashes, at the discretion of the
court-martial; if a private soldier with the same corporeal punishment.
4. In all cases where a commissioned officer is cashiered for cowardice or fraud, it be
added in the punishment, that the crime, name, place of abode, and punishment of the
delinquent be published in the newspapers, in and about the camp, and of that colony from
which the offender came, or usually resides: after which it shall be deemed scandalous in
any officer to associate with him.
. 5. Any officer or soldier, who shall begin, excite, cause, or join in any mutiny or sedition
in the regiment, troop, or company to which he belongs, or in any other regiment, troop, or
company of the continental forces, either by land or sea, or in any party, post, detachment
or guard, on any pretence whatsoever, shall suffer death, or such other punishment, as a
general court-martial shall direct.
6. Any officer or soldier, who shall desert to the enemy, and afterwards be taken, shall
suffer death, or such other punishment, as a general court-martial shall direct.
7, Whatsoever commissioned officer shall be found drunk on his guard, party, or other
duty under arms, shall be cashiered and drummed out of the army with infamy, any non-
Commissioned officer or soldier, so offending, shall be sentenced to be whipt, not less than
twenty, nor more than thirty-nine lashes, according to the nature of the offence.
8. Whatsoever officer or soldier, placed as a sentinel, shall be found sleeping upon his
ost, Qr shall leave it before he shall be regularly relieved, if a commissioned officer, shall
C cashiered, and drummed out of the army with infamy; if a non-commissioned officer or
Soldier, shall be sentenced to be whipt, not less than twenty, nor more than thirty-nine
lashes, according to the nature of the offence:
9. No officer or soldier shall lie out of his quarters or camp, without leave from the com-
manding officer of the regiment, upon penalty, if an officer, of being mulcted one month’s pay
for the first offence, and cashiered for the second; if a non-commissioned officer or soldier,
of being confined seven days on bread and water for the first offence; and the same punish-
ment and a forfeiture of a week's pay for the second.
Wor... [. ! 3
'98 JOURNALS or CONGRESS, 1775.
*
t
*=- —h.
º
Qrdered, That Mr. Deane, Mr. Cushing and Mr. Hewes, be a committee to
revise them for the press, and to get them printed.
Resolved, That the Congress will, on Monday next, resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to consider the trade of these colonies.
A number of letters and speeches from the Stockbridge Indians were laid
before the Congress and read:
Resolved, That the committee for Indian affairs, do prepare proper talks to
the several tribes of Indians, for engaging the continuance of their friendship
to us; and neutrality in our present unhappy dispute with Great-Britain.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine º
SATURDAY, July 1, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
. On motion made, Resolved, That in case any agent of the ministry, shall
induce the Indian tribes, or any of them, to commit actual hostilities against
these colonies, or to enter into an offensive alliance with the British troops,
thereupon the colonies ought to avail themselves of an alliance with such In-
dian nations as will enter into the same, to oppose such British troops and their
Indian allies.
Letters being received by express from general Schuyler, which required
an immediate answer, were laid before Congress, and after due deliberation,
an answer was returned.
10. Whatsoever officer or soldier shall misbehave himself before the enemy, or shamefully
abandon any#. committed to his charge, or shall speak words inducing others to do the
like, shall suffer death.
11. All public stores taken in the enemy's camp or magazines, whether of artillery, am-
munition, clothing, or provisions, shall be secured for the use of the United Colonies; and
all commissioned officers, found guilty, by general court-martial, of embezzling the same, or
any of them, shall forfeit all his pay, be ipso facto cashiered, and deemed unfit for farther
service as an officer. And all non-commissioned officers and soldiers, convicted before a
regimental court-martial of stealing or embezzling the same, if a non-commissioned officer,
shall be reduced to the ranks, and punished with whipping, not less than fifteen, nor more
than thirty-nine lashes, at the discretion of the court-martial; if a private soldier, with the
same punishment.
12. If any officer or soldier, shall leave his post or colours, in time of an engagement, to
go in search of plunder, he shall, if a commissioned officer, be cashiered, and drummed out
of the army with infamy, and forfeit all share of plunder; if a non-commissioned officer or
soldier, be whipped, not less than twenty, nor more than thirty-nine lashes, according to the
nature of the offence, and forfeit all share of the plunder taken from the enemy.
13. Every officer commanding a regiment, troop, or company, shall, upon notice given
to him by the commissary of the musters, or from one of his deputies, assemble the regiment,
troop, or company under his command, in the next convenient place for their being mustered,
on penalty of his being cashiered, and mulcted of his pay. t
14. At every muster, the commanding officer of each regiment, troop or company there
present, shall give to the commissary of musters, certificates signed by himself, signifying
how long such officers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers, who shall not appear at the
said muster, have been absent, and the reason of their absence, which reasons and the time
of absence, shall be inserted in the muster rolls, opposite the names of such absentees: and
the surgeons or their mates, shall at the same time give to the commissary of musters a
certificate signed by them, signifying the state of health or sickness of those under their care,
and the said certificate shall, together with the muster rolls, be by the said commissary trans-
mitted to the general, and to this or any future Congress of the United Colonies, or commit-
tee appointed thereby, within twenty days next after such muster being taken, on failure
whereof, the commissary so offending, shall be discharged from the service.
15. Every officer who shall be convicted before a general court-martial, of having signed
a false certificate relating to the absence of either officer, non-commissioned officer, or pri-
vate soldier; and every surgeon or mate, convicted of signing a false certificate, relating to
the health or sickness of those under his care, shall be cashiered. .
16. All officers and soldiers who shall wilfully, or through negligence, disobey any general
or special orders, shall be punished at the discretion of a regimental court-martial, where
the offence is against a regimental order, and at the discretion of a general court-martial,
where the offence is against an order given from the commander in chief, or the commanding
officer of any detachment or post, and such general court-martial can be had.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 90
On motion made, Itesolved, That lieutenant Patrick Moncrief have liberty
to return to England, on giving his parole of honor, that he will not act
against the Americans in the present controversy between Great-Britain and
these colonies.
Adjourned till Monday at nine o’clock.
MONDAY, July 3, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
Sundry letters being laid before the Congress, were read.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to consider the trade of these colonies, and after some
time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported a resolution
they had come to.
The resolution of the committee being read, was, at the desire of the colony
of South-Carolina, referred for farther consideration till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
TUESDAY, July 4, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The report from the committee of the whole being resumed and debated, was
agreed to as follows:
Resolved, That the two acts passed in the first session of the present par-
liament, the one, intituled “An act to restrain the trade and commerce of the
province of Massachusetts-Bay and New-Hampshire, and the colonies of Con-
necticut and Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations, in North-America, to
Great-Britain, Ireland, and the British islands in the West-Indies; and to
prohibit such provinces and colonies from carrying on any fishery on the banks
of Newfoundland or other places therein mentioned, under certain conditions
and limitations:” The other, intituled “An act to restrain the trade and
commerce of the colonies of New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia,
and South-Carolina, to Great-Britain, Ireland, and the British islands in the
West-Indies, under certain conditions and limitations,” are unconstitutional,
oppressive, and cruel; and that the commercial opposition of these colonies,
to certain acts enumerated in the association of the last Congress, ought to be
made against these, until they are repealed.
Ordered, That the above be immediately published. \
The petition to the king being again read, after some debate, the further con-
sideration of it was deferred till to-morrow. *
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
WEDNESDAY, July 5, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
Several letters were laid before the Congress and read. *
It appearing that governor Philip Skene and Mr. Lundy have designs inimi-
cal to America:
Ordered, That it be recommended to the delegates of the colony of Penn-
sylvania, to have the order of Congress of the 27th of June last, respecting
i. sending governor Skene to Connecticut, immediately carried into execu-
10Il.
Resolved, That Mr. Lundy be sent under guard along with governor Skene
to Connecticut, there to be confined in the same manner as is ordered with
*; to governor Skene.
$olved, That such provision be made for the support of governor Skene
*nd Mr. Lundy, as governor Trumbull shall think proper, at the expense of the
United Colonies.
Qrdered, That the president write to governor Trumbull on this subject,
and enclose him the above order and resolves.
100 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the petition to the king,
and the same being debated by paragraphs, was agreed to, and ordered to be
engrossed. *º-
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
TILURSDAY, July 6, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The Congress took into consideration 'the address to the inhabitants of
Great-Britain, and after some debate, the same was re-committed. ,
The committee, to whom the declaration was re-committed, brought in the
i. which being again read, and debated by paragraphs, was agreed to as
011OWS :
A declaration by the Representatives of the United Colonies of North-America, now met in Congress
at Philadelphia, setting forth the causes and necessity of their taking up arms.
If it was possible for men, who exercise their reason, to believe, that the
divine Author of our existence intended a part of the human race to hold an
absolute property in, and an unbounded power over others, marked out
by his infinite goodness and wisdom, as the objects of a legal domination never
rightfully resistible, however severe and oppressive, the inhabitants of these
colonies might at least require from the parliament of Great-Britain some
evidence, that this dreadful authority over them, has been granted to that body.
But a reverence for our great Creator, principles of humanity, and the dictates
of common sense, must convince all those who reflect upon the subject, that
government was instituted to promote the welfare of mankind, and ought to
be administered for the attainment of that end. The legislature of Great-
Britain, however, stimulated by an inordinate passion for a power, not only un-
justifiable, but which they know to be peculiarly reprobated by the very consti-
tution of that kingdom, and desperate of successin any mode of contest, where
regard should be had to truth, law, or right, have at length, deserting those,
attempted to effect their cruel and impolitic purpose of enslaving these colo-
, nies by violence, and have thereby rendered it necessary for us to close with
their last appeal from reason to arms-Yet, however blinded that assembly
may be, by their intemperate rage for unlimited domination, so to slight justice
and the opinion of mankind, we esteem ourselves bound, by obligations of respect
to the rest of the world, to make known the justice of our cause.
Our forefathers, inhabitants of the island of Great-Britain, left their native
Iand, to seek on these shores a residence for civil and religious freedom. At
the expense of their blood, at the hazard of their fortunes, without the least
charge to the country from which they removed, by unceasing labour, and an
unconquerable spirit, they effected settlements in the distant and inhospitable
wilds of America, then filled with numerous and warlike nations of barbarians.
Societies or governments, vested with perfect legislatures, were formed under
charters from the crown, and an harmonious intercourse was established be-
tween the colonies and the kingdom from which they derived their origin. The
mutual benefits of this union became in a short time so extraordinary, as to
excite astonishment. It is universally confessed, that the amazing increase of
the wealth, strength, and navigation of the realm, arose from this source; and
the minister, who so wisely and successfully directed the measures of Great-
Britain in the late war, publicly declared, that these colonies enabled her to
triumph over her enemies.—Towards the conclusion of that war, it pleased
our sovereign to make a change in his counsels.--From that fatal moment, the
affairs of the British empire began to fall into confusion, and gradually sliding
from the summit of glorious prosperity, to which they had been advanced by the
virtues and abilities of one man, are at length distracted by the convulsions,
that now shake it to its deepest foundations. The new ministry finding the
brave foes of Britain, though frequently defeated, yet still contending, took up
the unfortunate idea of granting them a hasty peace, and of then subduing her
faithful friends,
; , , , , , , , ;
*
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 101
These devoted colonies were judged to be in such a state, as to present
victories without bloodshed, and all the easy emoluments of statuteable plun-
der.—The uninterrupted tenor of their peaceable and respectful behaviour
from the beginning of colonization, their dutiful, zealous, and useful services
during the war, though so recently and amply acknowledged in the most ho-
norable manner by his majesty, by the late king, and by parliament, could not
save them from the meditated innovations.—Parliament was influenced to
adopt the pernicious project, and assuming a new power over them, have, in the
course of eleven years, given such decisive specimens of the spirit and conse:
quences attending this power, as to leave no doubt concerning the effects of
acquiescence under it. They have undertaken to give and grant our money
without our consent, though we have ever exercised an exclusive right to dis-
pose of our own property; statutes have been passed for extending the juris-
diction of courts of admiralty and vice-admiralty beyond their ancient limits;
for depriving us of the accustomed and inestimable privilege of trial by jury,
in cases affecting both life and property; for suspending the legislature of one
of the colonies; for interdicting all commerce to the capital of another; and
for altering fundamentally the form of government established by charter, and
secured by acts of its own legislature solemnly confirmed by the crown; for
exempting the “murderers” of colonists from legal trial, and in effect, from
punishment; for erecting in a neighboring province, acquired by the joint
arms of Great-Britain and America, a despotism dangerous to our very exist-
ence; and for quartering soldiers upon the colonists in time of profound
peace. It has also been resolved in parliament, that colonists charged with
committing certain offences, shall be transported to England to be tried.
But why should we enumerate our injuries in detail; By one statute it is
declared, that parliament can “of right make laws to bind us in all cases what-
soever.” . What is to defend us against so enormous, so unlimited a power?
Not a single man of those who assume it, is chosen by us; or is subject to our
controul or influence; but, on the contrary, they are all of them exempt from
the operation of such laws, and an American revenue, if not diverted from the
ostensible purposes for which it is raised, would actually lighten their own
burdens in proportion as they increase ours. We saw the misery to which
such despotism would reduce us... We for ten years incessantly and ineffect-
ually besieged the throne as supplicants; we reasoned, we remonstrated with
parliament, in the most mild and decent language.
Administration, sensible that we should regard these oppressive measures as
freemen ought to do, sent over fleets and armies to enforce them. The indig-
nation of the Americans was roused, it is true; but it was the indignation of a
virtuous, loyal, and affectionate people. A Congress of delegates from the
United Colonies was assembled at Philadelphia, on the fifth day of last Sep-
tember. . We resolved again to offer an humble and dutiful petition to the
king, and also addressed our fellow-subjects of Great Britain. We have pur-
sued every temperate, every respectful measure: we have even proceeded to
break off our commercial intercourse with our fellow-subjects, as the last
peaceable admonition, that our attachment to no nation upon earth should sup-
plant our attachment to liberty.—This, we flattered ourselves, was the ultimate
step of the controversy: but subsequent events have shewn, how vain was this,
hope of finding moderation in our enemies. | \, *
Several threatening expressions against the colonies were inserted in his
majesty's speech; our petition, though we were told it was a decent one, and
that his majesty had been pleased to receive it graciously, and to promise laying
it before his parliament, was huddled into both houses among a bundle of
American papers, and there neglected. The lords and commons in their ad-
dress, in the month of February, said, that “a rebellion at that time actually
existed within the province of Massachusetts-Bay; and that those concerned
\ t
*
§ .
102 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
in it, had been countenanced and encouraged by unlawful combinations and
engagements, entered into by his majesty’s subjects in several of the other co-
lonies; and therefore they besought his majesty, that he would take the most
effectual measures to enforce due obedience to the laws and authority of the
supreme legislature.”—Soon after, the commercial intercourse of whole colo-
nies, with foreign countries, and with each other, was cut off by an act of
parliament; by another, several of them were entirely prohibited from the
fisheries in the seas near their coasts, on which they always depended for their
sustenance; and large reinforcements of ships and troops were immediately
sent over to general Gage.
Fruitless were all the entreaties, arguments, and eloquence of an illustrious
band of the most distinguished peers, and commoners, who nobly and stren-
uously asserted the justice of our cause, to stay, or even to mitigate the heed-
less fury with which these accumulated and unexampled outrages were hurried
on-Equally fruitless was the interference of the city of London, of Bristol,
and many other respectable towns in our favor. Parliament adopted an insi.
dious manoeuvre calculated to divide us, to establish a perpetual auction of
taxations where colony should bid against colony, all of them uninformed what
ransom would redeem their lives; and thus to extort from us, at the point of
the bayonet, the unknown sums that should be sufficient to gratify, if possible
to gratify, ministerial rapacity, with the miserable indulgence left to us of
raising, in our own mode, the prescribed tribute. What terms more rigid and
shumiliating could have been dictated by remorseless victors to conquered
enemies? In our circumstances to accept them, would be to deserve them.
Soon after intelligence of these proceedings arrived on this continent, gen-
eral Gage, who in the course of the last year had taken possession of the town
of Boston, in the province of Massachusetts-Bay, and still occupied it as a
garrison, on the 19th day of April, sent out from that place a large detach-
ment of his army, who made an unprovoked assault on the inhabitants of the said
province, at the town of Lexington, as appears by the affidavits of a great
number of persons, some of whom were officers and soldiers of that detachment,
murdered eight of the inhabitants, and wounded many others. From thence
the troops proceeded in warlike array to the town of Concord, where they set
upon another party of the inhabitants of the same province, killing several and
wounding more, until compelled to retreat by the country people suddenly
assembled to repel this cruel aggression. Hostilities, thus commenced by the
British troops, have been since prosecuted by them without regard to faith or
reputation.—The inhabitants of Boston being confined within that town by the
general their governor, and having, in order to procure their dismission, entered
into a treaty with him, it was stipulated that the said inhabitants having de-
posited their arms with their own magistrates, should have liberty to depart,
taking with them their other effects. They accordingly delivered up their arms,
but in open violation of honor, in defiance of the obligation of treaties, which
even savage nations esteemed sacred, the governor ordered the arms deposited
as aforesaid, that they might be preserved for their owners, to be seized by a
body of soldiers; detained the greatest part of the inhabitants in the town,
and compelled the few who were permitted to retire, to leave their most valu-
able effects behind.
By this' perfidy wives are separated from their husbands, children from their
parents, the aged and the sick from their relations and friends, who wish to
attend and comfort them ; and those who have been used to live in plenty and
even elegance, are reduced to deplorable distress.
The general, further emulating his ministerial masters, by a proclamation
bearing date on the 12th day of June, after venting the grossest falsehoods and
calumnies against the good people of these colonies, proceeds to “declare them
“all, either by name or description, to be rebels and traitors, to supersede the
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 1 OS
—--—
“ course of the common law, and instead thereof to publish and order the use
and exercise of the law martial.”—His troops have butchered our countrymen,
have wantonly burnt Charlestown, besides a considerable number of houses in
other places; our ships and vessels are seized; the necessary supplies of pro-
visions are intercepted, and he is exerting his utmost power to spread destruc-
tion and devastation around him.
We have received certain intelligence that general Carleton, the governor of
Canada, is instigating the people of that province and the Indians to fall upon
us; and we have but too much reason to apprehend, that schemes have been
formed to excite domestic enemies against us. In brief, a part of these colo-
nies now feel, and all of them are sure of feeling, as far as the vengance of
administration can inflict them, the complicated calamities of fire, sword, and
famine. We are reduced to the alternative of chusing an unconditional sub-
mission to the tyranny of irritated ministers, or resistance by force.—The lat-
teris our choice.—We have counted the cost of this contest, and find nothing
so dreadful as voluntary slavery.—Honor, justice, and humanity, forbid us
tamely to surrender that freedom which we received from our gallant ancestors,
and which our innocent posterity have a right to receive from us. ! We cannot
endure the infamy * guilt of resigning succeeding generations to that
wretchedness which inevitably awaits them, if we basely entail hereditary
bondage upon them.
Our cause is just. Our union is perfect. Our internal resources are great,
and, if necessary, foreign assistance is undoubtedly attainable. We grate-
fully acknowledge, as signal instances of the Divine favor towards us, that his
Providence would not permit us to be called into this severe controversy, until
we were grown up to our present strength, had been previously exercised in
warlike operation, and possessed of the means of defending ourselves. With
hearts fortified with these animating reflections, we most solemnly, before God
and the world, declare, that, exerting the utmost energy of those powers, which
our beneficent Creator hath graciously bestowed upon us, the arms we have
been compelled by our enemies to assume, we will, in defiance of every hazard,
with unabating firmness and perseverance, employ for the preservation of our
liberties ; being with one mind resolved to die freemen rather than live slaves.
Lest this declaration should disquiet the minds of our friends and fellow-
subjects in any part of the empire, we assure them that we mean not to dis-
solve that union which has so long and so happily subsisted between us, and
which we sincerely wish to see restored.—Necessity has not yet driven us into
that desperate measure, or induced us to excite any other nation to war against
them.—We have not raised armies with ambitious designs of separating from
Great-Britain, and establishing independent states. We fight not for glory or
for conquest. We exhibit to mankind the remarkable spectacle of a people
attacked by unprovoked enemies, without any imputation or even suspicion
of offence. ...They boast of their privileges and civilization, and yet proffer no
milder conditions than servitude or death.
In our own native land, in defence of the freedom that is our birth-right,
and which we ever enjoyed till the late violation of it—for the protection of
our property, acquired solely by the honest industry of our fore-fathers and
ourselves, against violence actually offered, we have taken up arms. We shall
lay them down when hostilities shall cease on the part of the aggressors, and
al danger of their being renewed shall be removed, and not before.
With an humble confidence in the mercies of the supreme and impartial
Judge and Ruler of the Universe, we most devoutly implore his divine good-
ness to protect us happily through this great conflict, to dispose our adversa-
ries to reconciliation on reasonable terms, and thereby to relieve the empire
from the calamities of civil war.
9n a motion made, Resolved, That a letter be prepared to the lord mayor,
aldermen, and livery of the city of London, expressing the thanks of this Con-
104 Journals of CONGRESS, 1775.
—A-
gress, for their virtuous and spirited opposition to the oppressive and ruinous
system of colony administration adopted by the British ministry.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to draught an address to the people
of Great-Britain, do prepare this.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
FRIDAY, July 7, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The committee to whom the address to the people of Great-Britain, was re-
committed, brought in the same, which being again read and debated, the
farther consideration thereof was deferred till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
Sw SATURDAY, July 8, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The petition to the king being engrossed, was compared at the table, and
signed by the members present.
To the king’s most excellent majesty:
Most GRACIOUs sov EREIGN, *
We, your majesty’s faithful subjects of the colonies of New-Hampshire,
Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island and, Providence Plantations, Connecticut,
New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, the counties of New-Castle, Kent, and
Sussex, on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina, and South Carolina,
in behalf of ourselves, and the inhabitants of these colonies, who have depu-
ted us to represent them in general Congress, entreat your majesty’s gracious
attention to this our humble petition.
The union between our mother country and these colonies, and the energy
of mild and just government, produced benefits so remarkably important, and
afforded such an assurance of their permanency and increase, that the won-
der and envy of other nations were excited, while they beheld Great-Britain
rising to a power the most extraordinary the world had ever known.
Her rivals, observing that there was no probability of this happy connexion
being broken by civil dissensions, and apprehending its futrue effects, if left
any longer undisturbed, resolved to prevent her receiving such continual and
formidable accessions of wealth and strength, by checking the growth of those
settlements from which they were to be ...
In the prosecution of this attempt, events so unfavorable to the design took
place, that every friend to the interest of Great-Britain and these colonies,
entertained pleasing and reasonable expectations of seeing an additional force
and exertion immediately given to the operations of the union hitherto ex-
perienced, by an enlargement of the dominions of the crown, and the removal
of ancient and warlike enemies to a greater distance.
At the conclusion, therefore, of the late war, the most glorious and advan-
tageous that ever had been carried on by British arms, your loyal colonists hav-
ing contributed to its success, by such repeated and strenuous exertions, as
frequently procured them the distinguished approbation of your majesty,
of the late king, and of parliament, doubted not but that they should be per-
mitted, with the rest of the empire, to share in the blessings of peace, and the
emoluments of victory and conquest.
While these recent and honorable acknowledgments of their merits re-
mained on record in the journals and acts of that august legislature, the par-
liament, undefaced by the imputation or even the suspicion of any offence,
they were alarmed by a new system of statutes and regulations adopted for
the administration of the colonies, that filled their minds with the most pain-
ful fears and Jealousies; and, to their inexpressible astonishment, perceived the
danger of a foreign quarrel quickly succeeded by domestic danger, in their
judgment, of a more dreadful kind.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 105
Nor were these anxieties alleviated by any tendency in this system to pro-
mote the welfare of their mother country. For though its effects were more
immediately felt by them, yet its influence appeared to be injurious to the
commerce and prosperity of Great-Britain.
We shall decline the ungrateful task of describing the irksome variety of
artifices, practised by many of your majesty’s ministers, the delusive preten-
ces, fruitless terrors, and unavailing severities, that have, from time to time, been
dealt out by them, in their attempts to execute this impolitic plan, or of trac:
ing, through a series of years past, the progress of the unhappy differences
between. Great-Britain and these colonies, that have flowed from this fatal
SOul'Ce.
Your majesty’s ministers, persevering in their measures, and proceeding to
open hostilities for enforcing them, have compelled us to arm in our own de-
fence, and have engaged us in a controversy so peculiarly abhorrent to the
affections of your still faithful colonists, that when we consider whom we
must oppose in this contest, and if it continues, what may be the consequences,
our own particular misfortunes are accounted by us only as parts of our dis-
tress.
Knowing to what violent resentments and incurable animosities, civil dis-
cords are apt to exasperate and inflame the contending parties, we think our-
selves required by indispensable obligations to Almighty God, to your majesty,
to our fellow-subjects, and to ourselves, immediately to use all the means in our
power, not incompatible with our safety, for stopping the further effusion of
blood, and for averting the impending calamities that threaten the British
empire.
Thus called upon to address your majesty on affairs of such moment to
America, and probably to all your dominions, we are earnestly desirous of per-
forming this office, with the utmost deference for your majesty; and we there-
fore pray, that your majesty’s royal magnanimity and benevolence may make
the most favourable constructions of our expressions on so uncommon an occa-
sion. Could we represent in their full force, the sentiments that agitate the
minds of us your dutiful subjects, we are persuaded your majesty would ascribe
any seeming deviation from reverence in our language, and even in our conduct,
not to any reprehensible intention, but to the impossibility of reconciling the
usual appearances of respect, with a just attention to our own preservation
against those artful and cruel enemies, who abuse your royal confidence and
authority, for the purpose of effecting our destruction.
Attached to your majesty’s person, family, and government, with all devotion
that principle and affection can inspire, connected with Great-Britain by the
strongest ties that can unite societies, and deploring every event that tends in
any degree to weaken them, we solemnly assure your majesty, that we not
only most ardently desire the former harmony between her and these colonies
may be restored, but that a concord may be established between them upon so
firm a basis as to perpetuate its blessings, uninterrupted by any future dissen-
tions, to succeeding generations in both countries, and to transmit your majesty’s
name to posterity, adorned with that signal and lasting glory, that has attended
the memory of those illustrious personages, whose virtues and abilities have
extricated states from dangerous convulsions, and, by securing happiness to
others, have erected the most noble and durable monuments to their own fame.
We beg leave further to assure your majesty, that notwithstanding the suf-
ferings of your loyal colonists, during the course of this present controversy,
our breasts retain too tender a regard for the kingdom from which we derive
our origin, to request such a reconciliation as might in any manner be incon-
sistent with her dignity or her welfare. These, related as we are to her, honor
and duty, as well as inclination, induce us to support and advance; and the
* that now oppress our hearts with unspeakable grief, being once
OL. I. 14
106 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
{
removed, your majesty will find your faithful subjects on this continent ready
and willing at all times, as they have ever been, with their lives and fortunes,
to assert and maintain the rights and interests of your majesty, and of our mo-
ther country.
We, therefore, beseech your majesty, that your royal authority and influ-
ence may be graciously interposed to procure us relief from our i. fears
and jealousies, occasioned by the system before mentioned, and to settle peace
through every part of our dominions, with all humility submitting to your ma-
jesty’s wise consideration whether it may not be expedient for facilitating
those important purposes, that your majesty be pleased to direct some mode,
by which the united applications of your faithful colonists to the throne, in
pursuance of their common councils, may be improved into a happy and per-
manent reconciliation; and that, in the mean time, measures may be taken for
preventing the further destruction of the lives of your majesty’s subjects; and
that such statutes as more immediately distress any of your majesty’s colo-
nies may be repealed.
For such arrangements as your majesty’s wisdom can form, for collecting
the united sense of your American Pºp'. we are convinced your majesty
would receive such satisfactory proofs of the disposition of the colonists to-
wards their sovereign and parent state, that the wished for opportunity would
Soon be restored to them, of evincing the sincerity of their professions, by every
testimony of devotion becoming the most dutiful subjects, and the most affec-
tionate colonists.
That your majesty may enjoy a long and prosperous reign, and that your
descendants may govern your dominions with honor to themselves and happi-
mess to their subjects, is our sincere prayer.
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to the lord mayor, &c. reported
the same, which was read.
On motion, Resolved, That the same committee prepare a letter to Richard
Penn, esq. and the colony agents by name in England.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the address to the inhabi-
i. of Great-Britain, which being debated by paragraphs, was agreed to as
011OWS :
The Twelve United Colonies, by their delegates in Congress, to the inhabitants of Great-Britain.
FRIENDS, countryMEN, AND BRETHREN'
By these, and by every other appellation that may designate the ties, which
bind us to each other, we entreat your serious attention to this our second at-
tempt to prevent their dissolution. Remembrance of former friendships, pride
in the glorious achievements of our common ancestors, and affection for the
heirs of their virtues, have hitherto preserved our mutual connexion; but when
that friendship is violated by the grossest injuries; when the pride of ancestry
becomes our reproach, and we are no otherwise allied than as tyrants and
slaves; when reduced to the melancholy alternative of renouncing your favour
or our freedom ; can we hesitate about the choice P Let the spirit of Britons
determine.
In a former address we asserted our rights, and stated the injuries we had
then received. We hoped, that the mention of our wrongs would have roused
that honest indignation which has slept too long for your honor, or the welfare
of the empire. But we have not been permitted to entertain this pleasing ex-
pectation. Every day brought an accumulation of injuries, and the invention
of the ministry has been constantly exercised, in adding to the calamities of
our American brethren. v.
After the most valuable right of legislation was infringed; when the powers
assumed by your parliament, in which we are not represented, and from our
local and other circumstances cannot properly be represented, rendered our
2
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 107
property precarious; after being denied that mode of trial, to which we have
long been indebted for the safety of our persons, and the preservation of our
liberties; after being in many instances divested of those laws, which were
transmitted to us by our common ancestors, and subjected to an arbitrary code,
compiled under the auspices of Roman tyrants; after those charters, which
encouraged our predecessors to brave death and danger in every shape, on
unknown seas, in deserts unexplored, amidst barbarous and inhospitable na-
tions, were annulled ; when, without the form of trial, without a public accusa-
tion, whole colonies were condemned, their trade destroyed, their inhabitants
impoverished; when soldiers were encouraged to embrue their hands in the
blood of Americans, by offers of impunity; when new modes of trial were in-
stituted for the ruin of the accused, where the charge carried with it the horrors
of conviction; when a despotic government was established in a neighboring
province, and its limits extended to every of our frontiers; we little imagine
that any thing could be added to this black catalogue of unprovoked injuries:
but we have unhappily been deceived, and the late measures of the British
ministry fully convince us, that their object is the reduction of these colonies
to slavery and ruin.
To confirm this assertion, let us recal your attention to the affairs of Ame-
rica, since our last address. Let us combat the calumnies of our enemies;
and let us warn you of the dangers that threaten you in our destruction.
Many of your fellow-subjects, whose situation deprived them of other support,
drew their maintenance from the sea; but the deprivation of our liberty being
insufficient to satisfy the resentment of our enemies, the horrors of famine
were superadded, and a British parliament, who, in better times, were the
protectors of innocence and the patrons of humanity, have, without distinction
of age or sex, robbed thousands of the food which they were accustomed to
draw from that inexhaustible source, placed in their neighborhood by the bene-
volent Creator.
Another act of your legislature shuts our ports, and prohibits our trade with
any but those states from whom the great law of self-preservation renders it
absolutely necessary we should at present withhold our commerce. But this
act (whatever may have been its design) we consider rather as injurious to
your opulence than our interest. All our commerce terminates with you ; and
the wealth we procure from other nations, is soon exchanged for your superflui-
ties. Our remittances must then cease with our trade; and our refinements
with our affluence. We trust, however, that laws which deprive us of ever
blessing but a soil that teems with the necessaries of life, and that liberty
which renders the enjoyment of them secure, will not relax our vigor in their
defence.
We might here observe on the cruelty and inconsistency of those, who,
while they publicly brand us with reproachful and unworthy epithets, endeavor
to deprive us of the means of defence, by their interposition with foreign
powers, and to deliver us to the lawless ravages of a merciless soldiery. But
happily we are not without resources; and though the timid and humiliating
applications of a British ministry should prevail with foreign nations, yet in-
dustry, prompted by necessity, will not leave us without the necessary supplies.
We could wish to go no further, and, not to wound the ear of humanity,
leave untold those rigorous acts of oppression, which are daily exercised in the
town of Boston, did we not hope, that by disclaiming their deeds and punishing
the perpetrators, you would shortly vindicate the honor of the British name,
and re-establish the violated laws of justice. *
That once populous, flourishing and commercial town is now garrisoned by .
an army sent not to protect, but to enslave its inhabitants. The civil govern-
ment is overturned, and a military despotism erected upon its ruins. With-
out law, without right, powers are assumed unknown to the constitution.
108 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
Private property is unjustly invaded. The inhabitants, daily subjected to the
licentiousness of the soldiery, are forbid to remove in defiance of their natural
rights, in violation of the most solemn compacts. Or if, after long and weari-
some solicitation, a pass is procured, their effects are detained, and even those
who are most fººd. have no alternative but poverty or slavery. The distress
of many thousand people, wantonly deprived of the necessaries of life, is a
subject, on which we would not wish to enlarge.
Yet, we cannot but observe, that a British ſleet (unjustified even by acts of
your legislature), are daily employed in ruining our commerce, seizing our
ships, and depriving whole communities of their daily bread. Nor will a re-
gard for your honor permit us to be silent, while British troops sully your glory,
by actions, which the most inveterate enmity will not palliate among civilized
nations, the wanton and unnecessary destruction of Charlestown, a large, an-
cient, and once populous town, just before deserted by its inhabitants, who had
fled to avoid the fury of your soldiery.
If you still retain those sentiments of compassion, by which Britons have
ever been distinguished, if the humanity, which tempered the valor of our
common ancestors, has not degenerated into cruelty, you will lament the mise-
ries of their descendants.
To what are we to attribute this treatment? If to any secret principle of
the constitution, let it be mentioned ; let us learn, that the government, we
have long revered, is not without its defects, and that while it gives freedom to
a part, it necessarily enslaves the remainder of the empire. If such a principle
exists, why for ages has it ceased to operate P Why at this time is it called
into action ? Can no reason be assigned for this conduct? Or must it be
resolved into the wanton exercise of arbitrary power P And shall the decend-
ants of Britons tamely'submit to this?—No, sirs . We never will, while we
revere the memory of our gallant and virtuous ancestors, we never can sur-
render those glorious privileges, for which they fought, bled, and conquered.
Admit that your ſleets could destroy our towns, and ravage our sea-coasts;
these are inconsiderable objects, things of no moment to men, whose bosoms
glow with the ardor of liberty. We can retire beyond the reach of your navy,
and, without any sensible diminution of the necessaries of life, enjoy a luxury,
which from that period you will want—the luxury of being free.
We know the force of your arms, and was it called forth in the cause of
justice and your country, we might dread the exertion : but will Britons fight
under the banners of tyranny ? Will they counteract the labours, and dis-
grace the victories of their ancestors? Will they forge chains for their
posterity ? If they descend to this unworthy task, will their swords retain
their edge, their arms their accustomed vigour P Britons can never become
the instruments of oppression, till they lose the spirit of freedom, by which
alone they are invincible.
Our enemies charge us with sedition. In what does it consist? In our
refusal to submit to unwarrantable acts of injustice and cruelty? If so, shew
us a period in your history, in which you have not been equally seditious.
We are accused of aiming at independence; but how is this accusation sup-
Ported By the allegations of your ministers, not by our actions. Abused,
insulted, and contemned, what steps have we pursued to obtain redress P. We
have carried our dutiful petitions to the throne. We have applied to your
justice for relief. We have retrenched our luxury, and withheld our trade.
The advantages of our commerce were designed as a compensation for your
protection: When you ceased to protect, for what were we to compensate?
What has been the success of our endeavours ? The clemency of our sove-
reign is unhappily diverted; our petitions are treated with indignity; our
prayers answered by insults. Our application.to you remains unnoticed,
and leaves us the melancholy apprehension of your wanting either the will, or
the power, to assist us.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. J 09
Even under these circumstances, what measures have we taken that betray
a desire of independence? Have we called in the aid of those foreign powers,
who are the rivals of your grandeur P. When your troops were º and de-
ſenceless, did, we take advantage of their distress and expel them our towns 2
Or have we permitted them to fortify, to receive new aid, and to acquire addi-
tional strength |
Let not your enemies and ours persuade you, that in this we were influenced
by fear or any other unworthy motive. The lives of Britons are still dear to
us. They are the children of our parents, and an uninterrupted intercourse
of mutual benefits had knit the bonds of friendship. When hostilities were
commenced, when on a late occasion we were wantonly attacked by your
troops, though we repelled their assaults and returned their blows, yet we
lamented the wounds they obliged us to give ; nor have we yet learned to re-
joice at a victory over Englishmen.
As we wish not to colour our actions, or disguise our thoughts, we shall, in
the simple language of truth, avow the measures we have pursued, the motives
upon which we have acted, and our future designs. *
When our late petition to the throne produced no other effect than fresh
injuries, and votes of your legislature, calculated to justify every severity;
when your fleets and your armies were prepared to wrest from us our property,
to rob us of our liberties or our lives; when the hostile attempts of general
Gage evinced his designs, we levied armies for our security and defence.
When the powers vested in the governor of Canada, gave us reason to appre-
hend danger from that quarter; and we had frequent intimations, that a cruel
and savage enemy was to be let loose upon the defenceless inhabitants of our
frontiers ; we took such measures as prudence dictated, as necessity will jus-
tify. We possessed ourselves of Crown-Point and Ticonderoga. Yet giye
us leave most solemnly to assure you, that we have not yet lost sight of the
object we have ever had in view, a reconciliation with you on constitutional
principles, and a rostoration of that friendly intercourse, which, to the advan-
tage of both, we till lately maintained. |
The inhabitants of this country apply themselves chiefly to agriculture and
commerce. As their fashions and manners are similar to yours, your markets
must afford them the conveniencies and luxuries, for which they exchange the
produce of their labours. The wealth of this extended continent centres with
you ; and our trade is so regulated as to be subservient only to your interest.
You are too reasonable to expect, that by taxes (in addition to this) we should
contribute to your expense; to believe, after diverting the fountain, that the
streams can flow with unabated force.
It has been said, that we refuse to submit to the restrictions on our commerce.
From whence is this inference drawn P Not from our words, we have repeat-
edly declared the contrary; and we again profess our submission to the seve-
|al acts of trade and navigation, passed before the year 1763, trusting, never-
theless, in the equity and justice of parliament, that such of them as, upon cool
and impartial consideration, shall appear to have imposed unnecessary or
grievous restrictions, will, at some happier period, be repealed or altered. And
We sheerfully consent to the operation of such acts of the British parliament,
as shall be restrained to the regulation of our external commerce, for the pur-
pose of Securing the commercial advantages of the whole empire to the mother
county, and the commercial benefits of its respective members; excluding
every idea of taxation internal or external, for raising a revenue on the subjects
in America, without their consent.
It is alleged that we contribute nothing to the common defence. To this
we answer, that the advantages which Great-Britain receives from the mono-
Poly of our trade, far exceed our proportion of the expense necessary for that
Purpose. But should these advantages be inadequate thereto. let the restric-
|
1 10 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
*-** -- ~~~~- --
tions on our trade be removed, and we will cheerfully contribute such propor-
tion when constitutionally required.
It is a fundamental principle of the British constitution, that every man
should have at least a representative share in the formation of those laws, by
which he is bound. Were it otherwise, the regulation of our internal police by
a British parliament, who are and ever will be acquainted with our local
circumstances, must be always inconvenient, and frequently oppressive, work-
ing our wrong, without yielding any possible advantage to you.
A plan of accommodation (as it has been absurdly called) has been proposed
by your ministers to our respective assemblies. Were this proposal free from
every other objection, but that which arises from the time of the offer, it would
not be unexceptionable. Can men deliberate with the bayonet at their breast?
Can they treat with freedom, while their towns are sacked; when daily instan-
ces of injustice and oppression disturb the slower operations of reason P
If this Pº is really such as you would offer and we accept, why was
it delayed till the nation was put to useless expense, and we were reduced to
our present melancholy situation? If it holds forth nothing, why was it pro-
posed ? Unless indeed to deceive you into a belief, that we were unwilling to listen
to any terms of accommodation. But what is submitted to our consideration ?
We contend for the disposal of our property. We are told that our demand
is unreasonable, that our assemblies may indeed collect our money, but that
they must at the same time offer, not what your exigencies or ours may re-
quire, but so much as shall be deemed sufficient to satisfy the desires of a
minister and enable him to provide for favorites and dependants. A recurrence
to your own treasury will convince you how little of the money already ex-
torted from us has been º to the relief of your burthens. To suppose
that we would thus grasp the shadow and give up the substance, is adding in-
sult to injuries.
We have nevertheless again presented an humble and dutiful petition to our
sovereign, and to remove every imputation of obstinacy, have requested his
majesty to direct some mode, by which the united applications of his faithful
colonists may be improved into happy and permanent reconciliation. We are
willing to treat on such terms as can alone render an accommodation lasting,
and we flatter ourselves that our pacific endeavors will be attended with a re-
moval of ministerial troops, and a repeal of those laws, of the operation of
which we complain, on the one part, and a disbanding of our army, and a dis-
solution of our commercial associations, on the other.
Yet conclude not from this that we propose to surrender our property into
the hands of your ministry, or vest your parliament with a power which may
terminate in Gur destruction. The great bulwarks of our constitution we have
desired to maintain by every temperate, by every peaceable means; but your
ministers (equal foes to British and American freedom) have added to their
former oppressions an attempt to reduce us by the sword to a base and abject
submission. "On the sword, therefore, we are compelled to rely for protection.
Should victory declare in your favor, yet men trained to arms from their infan-
cy, and animated by the love of liberty, will afford neither a cheap or easy
conquest. Of this at least we are assured, that our struggle will be glorious,
our success certain ; since even in death we shall find that freedom which in
life you forbid us to enjoy.
Let us now ask what advantages are to attend our reduction ? the trade of a
ruined and desolate country is always inconsiderable, its revenue trifling; the ex-
pense of subjecting and retaining it in subjection certain and inevitable. What
then remains but thegratification of an ill-judged pride, or the hope of rendering
us subservient to designs on your liberty. *
Soldiers who have sheathed their swords in the bowels of their American
brethren, will not draw them with more reluctance against you. When too
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 1. ii
a. ** *****
late you may lament the loss of that freedom, which we exhort you, while still
in your power, to preserve.
ë. the other hand, should you prove unsuccessful ; should that connexion,
which we most ardently wish to maintain, be dissolved ; should your minis-
ters exhaust your treasures and waste the blood of your countrymen in vain
attempts on our liberty; do they not deliver you, weak and defenceless, to
your natural enemies? tº º tº
Since then your liberty must be the price of your victories; your ruin, of
your defeat: What blind fatality can urge you to a pursuit destructive of all
that Britons hold dear P tº *
If you have no regard to the connexion that has for ages subsisted between
us; if you have forgot the wounds we have received fighting by your side for
the extension of the empire; if our commerce is not an object below your con-
sideration; if justice and humanity have lost their influence on your hearts;
still motives are not wanting to excite your indignation at the measures now
pursued ; your wealth, your honor, your liberty are at stake.
Notwithstanding the distress to which we are reduced, we sometimes forget
our own afflictions, to anticipate and sympathize in yours. We grieve that
rash and inconsiderate councils should precipitate the destruction of an empire,
which has been the envy and admiration of ages, and call God to witness! that
we would part with our property, endanger our lives, and sacrifice every thing
but liberty, to redeem you from ruin.
A cloud hangs over your heads and ours; ere this reaches you, it may
probably burst upon us; let us then (before the remembrance of former kind-
mess is obliterated) once more repeat those appellations which are ever grateful
in our ears; let us entreat heaven to avért our ruin, and the destruction that
threatens our friends, brethren and countrymen, on the other side of the
Atlantic.
Ordered, That the above address be immediately printed, and sent by
Mr. Penn to England.
The letter to the lord mayor, aldermen and livery of London, being again
read and debated, was agreed to as follows:
My Lord,
Permit the delegates of the people of twelve ancient colonies, to pay your
lordship, and the very respectable body of which you are head, the just tribute
of gratitude and thanks, for the virtuous and unsolicited resentment you have
shewn to the violated rights of a free people. The city of London, my lord,
having in all ages, approved itself the patron of liberty, and the support of just
government, against lawless tyranny and oppression, cannot fail to make us
deeply sensible of the powerful aid, our cause must receive from such advo-
cates. . A cause, my lord, worthy the support of the first city in the world, as
it invelves the fate of a great continent, and threatens to shake the foundations
of a flourishing, and, until lately, a happy empire.
North-America, my lord, wishes most ardently for a lasting connexion with
Great-Britain on terms of just and equal liberty; less than which generous
minds will not offer, nor brave and free ones be willing to receive.
A cruel war has at length been opened against us, and whilst we prepare to
defend ourselves like the descendants of Britons, we still hope that the mediar
tion of wise and good citizens, will at length prevail over despotism, and
restore harmony and peace, on permanent principles, to an oppressed and di-
vided empire.
We have the honor to be, my lord,
With great esteem, your lordship's
Faithful friends and fellow-subjects.
Qrdered, That the above letter be transcribed, then signed by the president,
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to Mr. Penn and the colony
agents, reported a draught, wº was read and approved as follows: *
*
&
112 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
* --
GENTLEMEN,
The perseverance of the British ministry in their unjust and cruel system
of colony administration, has occasioned the meeting of another Congress.
We have again appealed to the justice of our sovereign for protection against
the destruction which his ministers meditate for his American subjects. This
petition to his majesty you will please, gentlemen, to present to the king with
all convenient expedition, after which we desire it may be given to the public.
We likewise send you our second application to the equity and interest of our
fellow-subjects in Great-Britain, and also a declaration setting forth the
causes of our taking up arms: Both which we wish may be immediately put to
press, and communicated as universally as possible. &
The Congress entertain the highest sense of the wise and worthy interposi-
tion of the lord mayor and livery of London, in favour of injured America.
They have expressed this, their sense, in a letter to his lordship and the livery,
which we desire may be presented in the manner most agreeable to that re-
spectable body.
You will oblige us, gentlemen, by given the most early information to the
Congress, and to the speakers of our respective assemblies, of your proceeding
in this business, and such further intelligence as you may judge to be of im-
portance to America in this great contest.
We are, with great regard, gentlemen, &c.
Ordered, That the above be fairly transcribed, and then signed by the pre-
sident, and by him sent under cover, together with the petition to the king, and
address to the inhabitants of Great-Britain, and the letter to the lord mayor,
&c. to Richard Penn, esq. and that the president request Mr. Penn, in behalf
§ the Congress, to join with the colony agents in presenting the petition to the
II.10.
Kimmed till Monday at nine o’clock.
MONDAY, July 10, 1775.
Met according to adjournment. l
Information being given, that there was a gentleman in town well acquainted
with the state and disposition of the Indians, a motion was made for introduc-
ing him, and he was accordingly introduced and examined.
he committee appointed to devise ways and means for putting the militia
in a proper state for the defence of America, brought in their report, which
was read, and after debate referred for further consideration.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
TUESDAY, July 11, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The report of the committee on Indian affairs was taken up and read, and,
after some debate, the same was deferred till to-morrow.
On information that there were two companies of riflemen raised in Lancaster
instead of one,
Resolved, That both be taken into the continental service.
“An address of deputies from the different parishes of the islands of Ber-
muda,” to the Congress, was presented and read.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
| WEDNESDAY, July 12, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
* A gentleman from the province of Quebec was introduced and examined.
Letters from governor Cooke and general Ward were read. • , ,
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the report of the committee
on Indian affairs, and the same being gone through was agreed to as follows :
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 113
** ~ * ------- ~~ * -º-º-º-º-º-
That the securing and preserving the friendship of the Indian nations, ap-
pears to be a subject of the utmost moment to these colonies.
That there is too much reason to apprehend that administration will spare
no pains to excite the several nations of Indians to take up arms against these
colonics; and it becomes us to be very active and vigilant in exerting every
prudent means to strengthen and confirm the friendly disposition towards these
colonies, which has long prevailed among the northern tribes, and which has
been lately manifested by some of those to the southward.
As the Indians depend on the colonists for arms, ammunition, and clothing,
which are become necessary to their subsistence, that commissioners be ap-
pointed by this Congress, to superintend Indian affairs in behalf of these
colonies.
That there be three departments of Indians, the northern, middle and south-
ern. The northern to extend so far south as to include the whole of the In-
dians known by the name of the Six Nations, and all the Indians northward of
those nations. The southern department to extend so far north as to include
the Cherokees, and all the Indians that may be to the southward of them. The
middle to contain the Indian nations that lie between the other two depart-
ments. -ºr
That five commissioners be appointed for the southern department.
That for each of the other two departments, there be appointed three com-
IſllSSIOIACl’S.
That the commissioners have power to treat with the Indians in their res-
pective departments, in the name, and on behalf of the United Colonies, in
order to preserve peace and friendship with the said Indians, and to prevent
their taking any part in the present commotions.
That the commissioners for the southern department, receive from the con-
tinental treasury the sum of ten thousand dollars; the commissioners for the
middle and northern department, the sum of six thousand six hundred and
sixty-six and two-thirds, for each of their respective departments, for defray-
ing the expense of treaties and presents to the Indians.
That the commissioners respectively have power to take to their assistance
gentlemen of influence among the Indians, in whom they can confide, and to
appoint agents, residing near or among the Indians, to watch the conduct of
the superintendents and their emisaries.
That in case the commissioners for the respective districts, or any one of
them in either district, shall have satisfactory proof, that the king's super-
intendents, their deputies or agents, or any other person whatsoever, are
active in stirring up or inciting the Indians or any of them, to become inimical
to the American dº. such commissioner or commissioners, ought to cause
such superintendents or other offender, to be seized and kept in safe custody
until order shall be taken therein by a majority of the commissioners of the
districts where such seizure is made, or by the Continental Congress, or a com-
mittee of said Congress, to whom such seizure, with the causes of it, shall, as
Soon as possible after, be made known.
That the commissioners shall exhibit fair accounts of the expenditure of all
moneys by them respectively to be received for the purposes aforesaid, to every
succeeding Continental Congress, or committee of Congress, together with a
general state of Indian affairs, in their several departments; in order that the
colonies may be informed from time to time, of every such matter as may con-
cern them to know and avail themselves of, for the benefit of the common
Call SG2.
That as there is a seminary for the instruction of Indian youth, which has
been established under the care of doctor Wheelock, on Connecticut river;
and as there are nine or ten Indian youths at that school, chiefly from the tribes
* * ; and as for want of a proper fund, there is danger that
OL's 3 15 * &f
114 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
*~~
these youths may be sent back to their friends, which will probably excite jeat
lousy and distrust, and be attended with bad consequences, the commissioners
for Indian affairs in the northern department, be authorized to receive out of
the continental treasury, a sum not exceeding five hundred dollars, to be ap-
plied by them for the support of said Indian youths.
On motion made, Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to devise
ways and means to protect the trade of these colonies.
The following were chosen: Mr. Jay, Mr. Franklin, Mr. Gadsden, Mr.
Deane, and Mr. Lee.
Adjourned till to-morrow at eight o’clock.
THURSDAY, July 13, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The committee appointed to prepare proper talks to the Indians, reported
the same, which was agreed to as follows:
A Speech to the Six Confederate Nations, Mohawks, Oneidas, Tuscaroras, Onondagas, Cayugas,
Senekas, from the Twelve United Colonies, convened in Council at Philadelphia.
BROTHERS, SACHEMs, AND war RIoRs, &
We, the delegates from the twelve United Provinces, viz. New-Hamp-
shire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island, Connecticut, New-York, New-Jersey,
Pennsylvania, the three lower counties of New-Castle, Kent, and Sussex, on
Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina, and South-Carolina, now sit-
ting in general Congress at Philadelphia, send this talk to you our brothers.
We are sixty-five in number, chosen and appointed by the people throughout
all these provinces and colonies, to meet and sit together in one great council,
; consult together for the common good of the land, and speak and act for
them. \
Brothers, in our consultation we have judged it proper and necessary to send
you this talk, as we are upon the same island, that you may be informed of the
reasons of this great council, the situation of our civil constitution, and our
disposition towards you our Indian brothers of the Six Nations and their allies.
(Three Strings, or a small Belt.)
BROTHERS AND FRIENDs, Now ATTEND,
When our fathers crossed the great water and came over to this land, the
king of England gave them a talk: assuring them that they and their children
should be his children, and that if they would leave their native country and
make settlements, and live here, and buy, and sell, and trade with their bre-
thren beyond the water, they should still keep hold of the same covenant chain
and enjoy peace.—And it was covenanted, that the fields, houses, goods and
ossesions which our fathers should acquire, should remain to them as their own,
and be their children’s forever, and at their sole disposal.
Trusting that this covenant should never be broken, our fathers came a great
distance beyond the great water, laid out their money here, built houses, cleared
fields, raised crops, and through their own labour and industry grew tall and
Strong.
they have bought, sold and traded with England according to agreement,
sending to them such things as they wanted, and taking in exchange such things
as were wanted here. t *
The king of England and his people kept the way open for more than one
hundred years, and by our trade became richer, and by a union with us, greater
and stronger than the other kings and people who live beyond the water.
All this time they lived in great friendship with us, and we with ther:, ; for
we are brothers—one blood.
Whenever they were struck, we instantly felt as though the blow had been
given to us—their enemies were our enemies. &
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 115
Whenever they went to war, we sent our men to stand by their side and
fight for them, and our money to help them and make them strong. º
They thanked us for our love, and sent us good talks, and renewed their pro-
mise to be one people forever. w
BROTHERS AND FRIENDs, open A KIND EAR *
We will now tell you of the quarrel betwixt the counsellors of king George
and the inhabitants and colonies of America,
Many of his counsellors are proud and wicked men.—They persuade the king
to break the covenant chain, and not to send us any more good talks. A consi-
derable number have prevailed upon him to enter into a new covenant against
us, and have torn asunder and cast behind their backs the good old covenant
which their ancestors and ours entered into, and took strong hold of.
They now tell us they will slip their hand into our pocket without asking, as
though it were their own; and at their pleasure they will take from us our
charters or written civil constitution, which we love as our lives—also our
plantations, our houses and goods whenever they please, without asking our
leave.—That our vessels may go to this island in the sea, but to this or that
particular island we shall not trade any more.—And in case of our non-com-
pliance with these new orders, they shut up our harbours.
Brothers, this is our present situation—thus have many of the king’s coun
sellors and servants dealt with us.-If we submit, or comply with their demands,
you can easily perceive to what state we will be reduced.—If our ºr. la-
bour on the field, they will not know who shall enjoy the crop.–If they hunt in
the woods, it will be uncertain who shall taste of the meat or have the skins.—
If they build houses, they will not know whether they may sit round the fire,
with their wives and children. They cannot be sure whether they shall be per-
mitted to eat, drink, and wear the fruits of their own labour and industry.
BROTHERS AND FRIENDs of THE Six NATIONs, ATTEND,
We upon this island have often spoke and intreated the king and his servants
the counsellors, that peace and harmony might still continue between us—that
we cannot part with or lose our hold of the old covenant chain which united
our fathers and theirs—that we want to brighten this chain—and keep the
way open as our fathers did; that we want to live with them as brothers, labour,
trade, travel abroad, eat and drink in peace. We have often asked them to
love us and live in such friendship with us as their fathers did with ours.
We told them again that we judged we were exceedingly injured, that they
might as well kill us, as take away our property and the necessaries of life.—
We have asked why they treat us thus?—What has become of our repeated
addresses and supplications to them P Who hath shut the ears of the king
to the cries of his children in America P No soft answer—no pleasant voice
from beyond the water has yet sounded in our ears.
Brothers, thus stands the matter betwixt old England and America. You
Indians know how things are proportioned in a family—between the father and
the son—the child carries a little pack—England we regard as the father—this
island may be compared to the son.
The father has a numerous family—both at home and upon this island.—He
appoints a great number of servants to assist him in the government of his
family. In process of time, some of his servants grow proud and ill-natured—
they were displeased to see the boy so alert and walk so nimbly with his pack.
They tell the father, and advise him to enlarge the child’s pack—they prevail—
the pack is increased—the child takes it up again—as he thought it might be
the father’s Pºpº. but few words—those very small—for he was
loth to offend the father. Those proud and wicked servants finding they had
lº, laughed to see the boy sweat and stagger under his increased load.
ty and by, they apply to the father to double the boy’s pack, because they heard
him complain—and without any reason said they—he is a cross child—correct
|
{16 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
him if he complains any more.—The boy intreats the father—addresses the
great servants in a decent manner, that the pack might be lightened—he could
not go any farther—humbly asks, if the old fathers, in any of their records, had
described such a pack for the child—after all the tears and entreaties of the
child, the pack is redoubled—the child stands a little, while staggering under
the weight—ready to fall every moment. However he entreats the father once
more, though so faint he could only lisp out his last humble supplication—waits
a while—no voice returns. The child concludes the father could not hear—
those proud servants had intercepted his supplications, or stopped the ears of
the father. He therefore gives one struggle and throws off the pack, and says
he cannot.take it up again—such a weight would crush him down and kill him
—and he can but die if he refuses.
Upon this, those servants are very wroth—and tell the father many false
stories respecting the child—they bring a great cudgel to the father, asking
him to take it in his hand and strike the j
This may serve to illustrate the present condition of the king’s American
subjects or children. -
Amidst these oppressions we now and then hear a mollifying and reviving
voice from some of the king’s wise counsellors, who are our friends and feel
ſor our distresses, when they heard our complaints and our cries, they applied
to the king, also told those wicked servants, that this child in America was not
a cross boy, it had sufficient reason for crying, and if the cause of its com-
plaint was neglected, it would soon assume the voice of a man, plead for justice
like a man, and defend its rights and support the old covenant chain of the
fathers.
BROTHERs, LISTEN!
Notwithstanding all our entreaties, we have but little hope the king will
send us any more good talks, by reason of his evil counsellors; they have
persuaded him to send an army of soldiers and many ships of war, to rob and
destroy us. They have shut up many of our harbors, seized and taken into
possession many of our vessels: the soldiers have struck the blow, killed some
of our people, the blood now runs of the American children: They have also
burned our houses and towns, and taken much of our goods.
Brothers! We are now necessitated to rise, and forced to fight, or give up
our civil constitution, run away and leave our farms and houses behind us.
This must not be. Since the king’s wicked counsellors will not open their
ears, and consider our just complaints, and the cause of our weeping, and hath
iven the blow, we are determined to drive away the king’s soldiers, and to
kill and destroy all those wicked men we find in arms against the peace of the
twelve United Colonies upon this island. We think our cause is just; there-
fore hope God will be on our side. We do not take up the hatchet and struggle
for honor and conquest; but to maintain our civil constitution and religious
privileges, the very same for which our forefathers left their native land and
eame to this country.
BRoth ERS AND FRIENDS!
We desire you will hear and receive what we have now told you, and that
you will open a good ear and listen to what we are now going to say. This is
a family quarrel between us and Old England. You Indians are not concerned
in it. We don’t wish you to take up the hatchet against the king’s troops.
We desire you to remain at home, and not join on either side, but keep the
hatchet buried deep. In the name and behalf of all our people, we ask and
desire you to love peace and maintain it, and to love and sympathise with us
in our troubles; that the path may be kept open with all our people and yours,
to pass and repass, without molestation.
Brothers! we live upon the same ground with you. The same island is our
common birth-place. We desire to sit down under the same tree of peace with
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 117
you: let us water its roots and cherish its growth, till the large leaves and
flourishing branches shall extend to the setting sun, and reach the skies.
BRoth ERs, observe well.'
What is it we have asked of you? Nothing but peace, notwithstanding oup
present disturbed situation—and if application should be made to you by any
of the king's unwise and wicked ministers to join on their side, we only advise
you to deliberate, with great caution, and in your wisdom look forward to the
consequences of a compliance. For, if the king's troops take away our pro-
perty, and destroy us who are of the same blood with themselves, what can
you, who are Indians, expect from them afterwards 2
Therefore, we say, brothers, take care—hold fast to your covenant chain.
You now know our disposition towards you, the Six Nations of Indians, and
your allies. Let this our good talk remain at Onondaga, your central council
house. We depend upon you to send and acquaint your allies to the north-
ward, the seven tribes on the river St. Lawrence, that you have this talk of
Qurs at the great council fire of the Six Nations. And when they return, we
invite your great men to come and converse farther with us at Albany, where
we intend to re-kindle the council fire, which your and our ancestors sat round
in great friendship. z
Brothers and Friends !
* We greet you all farewell.
(The large belt of intelligence and declaration.)
BROTHERs
We have said we wish you Indians may continue in peace with one another,
and with us the white people. Let us both be cautious in our behaviour to-
wards each other at this critical state of affairs. This island now trembles,
the wind whistles from almost every quarter—let us fortify our minds and
shut our ears against false rumors—letus be cautious what we receive for truth,
unless spoken by wise and good men. If any thing disagreeable should ever
fall out between us, the twelve United Colonies, and you, the Six Nations, to
wound our peace, let us immediately seek measures for healing the breach.
From the present situation of our affairs, we judge it wise and expédient to
kindle up a small council fire at Albany, where we may hear each other's voice,
and disclose our minds more fully to each other.
(J. small belt.)
Ordered, That a similar talk be prepared for the other Indian nations, pre-
serving the tenor of the above, and altering it so as to suit the Indians in the
several departments.
The Congress then proceeded to the choice of commissioners for Indian
affairs, and after some debate, agreed that the nomination of commissioners for
the southern department be postponed till Tuesday next.
Mr. Franklin, Mr. Henry, and Mr. Wilson, were unanimously elected for
the middle department.
The Congress then proceeded to elect the commissioners for the northern
department, and the following gentlemen were chosen, viz: major-general
Philip Schuyler, major Joseph Hawley, Mr. Turbot Francis, Mr. Oliver
Wolcott, and Mr. Volkert P. Douw.
Adjourned till to-morrow at eight o’clock.
FRIDAY, July 14, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
, The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on
the militia, and after debate, the same was referred for farther consideration.
Adjourned till to-morrow at eight o’clock.
t 18 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775
saturday, July 15, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
On motion made, the Congress came to the following resolution:
Whereas, the government of Great-Britain hath j the exportation
of arms and ammunition to any of the plantations, and endeavored to prevent
other nations from supplying us: r/
Resolved, That for the better furnishing these colonies with the necessary
means of defending their rights, every vessel importing gun-powder, salt-petre,
sulphur, provided they bring with the sulphur four times as much salt-petre,
brass field-pieces, or good muskets fitted with bayonets, within nine months
from the date of this resolution, shall be permitted to load and export the pro-
duce of these colonies, to the value of such powder and stores aforesaid, the
non-exportation agreement notwithstanding; and it is recommended to the
committees of the several provinces to inspect the military stores so imported,
and to estimate a generous price for the same, according to their goodness, and
permit the importer of such powder and other military stores aforesaid, to ex-
port the value thereof and no more, in produce of any kind.
Sundry intercepted letters were laid before the Congress and read.
The talk to the Stockbridge Indians was then taken up, and the same being
debated, was agreed to. *
On motion, Itesolved, That the Congress will, on Thursday next, attend
divine service in a body, both morning and afternoon. M
Ordered, That Mr. Lynch, and Mr. Dickinson, wait on Mr. Duche, and Dr.
Allison, and request Mr. Duche to preach before the Congress on Thursday
next, in the morning, and Dr. Allison in the afternoon. a-
Adjourned till Monday at eight o’clock. .#
MONDAY, July, 17, 1775.
Met according to adjournment. -
A letter from general Schuyler, being laid before Congress, was read, and the
same being taken into dº.
Resolved, That a commissary of stores and provisions be appointed for the
New-York department, during the present campaign.
Walter Livingston, esq. chosen to that office.
Resolved, That a deputy quarter-master-general be appointed for the said
department.
Donald Campbell, esq. elected to that office.
Ordered, That Mr. D. Campbell, have the rank of colonel in the army.
Resolved, That a deputy muster-master be appointed for the said departmént.
Gunning Bedford, esq. elected to that office. - t
Resolved, That the convention of New-York be desired to recommend to
general Schuyler, a proper person for a deputy adjutant-general or brigade-
major, for the army in the New-York department.
Adjourned till to-morrow at eight o’clock.
TUESDAY, July 18, 1775.
Met according to adjournment. *
The Congress again resumed the consideration of the report of the com-
mittee for putting the militia into a proper state for the defence of America,
and the same being debated by paragraphs, was agreed to as follows:
Resolved, That it be recommended to the inhabitants of all the United En-
glish Colonies in North-America, that all able bodied effective men, between
sixteen and fifty years of age in each º immediately form themselves into
regular companies of militia, to consist of one captain, two lieutenants, one
ensign, four serjeants, four corporals, one clerk, one drummer, one fifer, and
about sixty-eight privates.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 119
4 *-
That the officers of each company be chosen by the respective companies.
That each soldier be furnished with a good musket, that will carry an ounce
ball, with a bayonet, steel ramrod, worm, priming wire and brush fitted thereto,
a cutting sword or tomahawk, a cartridge-box, that will contain twenty-three
rounds of cartridges, twelve flints and a knapsack.
That the companies be formed into regiments or battalions, officered with a
colonel, lieutenant-colonel, two majors, an adjutant, or quarter-master.
That all officers above the ... of a captain, be appointed by the respec-
tive provincial assemblies or conventions, or in their recess, by the committees
of safety appointed by said assemblies or conventions.
That all officers be commissioned by the provincial assemblies or conventions,
or in their recess by the committees of º appointed by said assemblies or
conventions.
That all the militia take proper care to acquire military skill, and be well
prepared for defence by being each man provided with one pound of good gun-
powder, and four pounds of ball, fitted to his gun.
That one fourth part of the militia in every colony, be selected for minute
men, of such persons as are willing to enter into this necessary service, formed
into companies and battalions, and their officers chosen and commissioned as
aforesaid, to be ready on the shortest notice, to march to any place where their
assistance may be required, for the defence of their own or a neighboring colo-
ny; and as these minute men may eventually be called to action before the
whole body of the militia are º trained, it is recommended that a
j particular and diligent attention be paid to their instruction in military
iscipline.
º such of the minute men, as desire it, be relieved by new draughts as
aforesaid, from the whole body of the militia, once in four months.
As there are some people, who, from religious principles, cannot bear arms
in any case, this Congress intend no violence to their consciences, but earnestly
recommend it to them, to contribute liberally in this time of universal calamity,
to the relief of their distressed brethren in the several colonies, and to do all
other services to their oppressed country, which they can consistently with their
religious principles.
That it be recommended to the assemblies or conventions in the respective
colonies to provide, as soon as possible, sufficient stores of ammunition for their
colonies ; also that they devise proper means for furnishing with arms, such ef-
ective men as are poor and unable to furnish themselves.
That it be recommended to each colony to appoint a committee of safety, to
superintend and direct all matters necessary for the security and defence of
their respective colonies, in the recess of their assemblies and conventions.
That each colony, at their own expense, make such provision by armed ves-
sels or otherwise, as their respective assemblies, conventions, or committees of
safety shall judge expedient and suitable to their circumstances and situations,
for the protection of their harbours and navigation on their sea coasts, against all
unlawful invasions, attacks, and depredations, from cutters and ships of war.
That it be recommended to the makers of arms for the use of the militia,
that they make good substantial muskets, with barrels three feet and a half in
length, that will carry an ounce ball, and fitted with a good bayonet and steel
ramºod, and that the making such arms be encouraged in these United Colonies,
Where in any colony a militia is already formed under regulations approved
of by the convention of such colony, or by such assemblies as are annually
elective, we refer to the discretion of such convention or assembly, either to
adopt the foregoing regulations in the whole or in part, or to continue their
former, as they, on consideration of all circumstances, shall think best.
Adjourned till to-morrow at eigbt o'clock,
120 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
!
WEDNESDAY, July 19, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The president laid before the Congress a letter from the general, with sundry
papers enclosed, which were read and considered : whereupon,
Ordered, That Mr. Wilson apply to the committee of the city and liberties
of Philadelphia, and request them to make diligent enquiry what quantity of
duck, Russia sheeting, tow-cloth, ozanaburgs and ticklenburgs can be procured
in this city, and make return as soon as possible to this Congress.
Resolved, That Joseph Trumbull be commissary-general of stores and provi-
sions for the army of the United Colonies.
Resolved, That the appointment of a quarter-master general, a commissary of
musters, and a commissary of artillery, be left to general Washington.
That general Thomas be appointed first brigadier-general in the army of the
United Čolonies, in the room of general Pomeroy, who never acted under the
commission sent to him, and that general Thomas’s commission bear the same
date that general Pomeroy’s did.
That it be left to general Washington, if he thinks fit, to appoint three bri-
gade-majors, and commission them accordingly. -
That a committee of three be appointed to report the method of establishing
an hospital.
Tºmittee chosen are, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Paine, and Mr. Middleton.
That it be recommended to the colonies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-
Bay, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, to complete the deficiencies in the regi-
ments belonging to their respective colonies, retained by the general in the
continental army before Boston.
That it be recommended to the colony of Rhode-Island, to complete and
send forward to the camp before Boston, as soon as possible, the three hundred
and sixty men, lately voted by their general assembly.
That it be recommended to the colony of Connecticut, to complete and
send forward to the camp before Boston, as soon as possible, the fourteen hun-
dred men lately voted by their general assembly.
On motion made, Resolved, That a committee be appointed to bring in an
estimate of the expenses, incurred by the votes and resolves of this Congress.
Mr. Deane, Mr. Johnson, and Mr. Cushing chosen.
.ſlgreed, That the Congress meet at this place to-morrow, and from this place
go in a body to attend divine service. \
Resolved, That the nomination of three of the commissioners for Indian
affairs, in the southern department, be left to the council of safety, appointed by
the colony of South-Carolina.
That Mr. John Walker, of Virginia, be appointed one of the commissioners
for Indian affairs in the southern department.
Adjourned till to-morrow at half past nine o’clock.
THURSDAY, July 20, 1775, half after nine, A. M.
An express arriving with despatches from general Schuyler, the same were
read. A.
A letter was also received from the convention of Georgia, and read, setting
forth, that that colony had acceded to the general association, and appointed
delegates to attend this Congress.
Adjourned till one o’clock, P. M.
P. M. met according to adjournment.
The despatches from general Schuyler being taken into consideration,
Resolved, That general Schuyler be empowered to dispose of and employ
all the troops in the New-York department, in such manner as he may think
best for the protection, and defence of these colonies, the tribes of Indians in
friendship and amity with us, and most effectually to promote the general in-
\
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 121
terest, still pursuing, if in his power, the former orders from this Congress,
and subject to the future orders of the commander in chief.
Adjourned till to-morrow at eight o’clock.
FRIDAY, July 21, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The committee appointed to prepare an address to the inhabitants of Jamaica,
having brought in a draught, the same was read.
ordered, To lie on the table.
The committee appointed to prepare an address to the people of Ireland,
brought in a draught:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That Mr. R. Bache, Mr. Stephen Paschall, and Mr. M. Hillegas, be
appointed to superintend the press, and to have the oversight and care of print-
ing the bills of credit j'. be struck by this Congress.
Resolved, That Mr. Willie Jones, of North-Carolina, be the fifth commis-
sioner of Indian affairs in the southern department.
Agreeable to order, the Congress resolved itself into a committee of the
whole, to take into consideration the state of America, and after some time
spent therein, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that
they had come to certain resolutions, which he read, and then desired leave to
sit again.
The committee appointed to devise ways and means to protect the trade of
these colonies, brought in their report, which was read.
Ordered, That the same be taken into consideration to-morrow morning.
The Congress then entered upon the consideration of the report from the
committee of the whole, and after some debate,
Resolved, That such a body of troops be kept up in the Massachusetts-Bay,
as general Washington shall think necessary, provided they do not exceed
twenty-two thousand men.
Adjourned till to-morrow at eight o’clock.
SATURDAY, July 22, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
Agreeable to the order of yesterday, the Congress took into consideration
the report of the counmittee appointed to devise ways and means to protect
the trade of these colonies, and after some debate, the farther consideration of
it was postponed to a future day.
On motion, Resolved, That Dr. Franklin, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. J. Adams, and
Mr. Lee, be a committee to take into consideration, and report on the
resolution of the house of commons, Feb. 20, 1775, commonly called lord
North’s motion.
Adjourned till Monday at eight o’clock.
Monday being spent in a committee of the whole. *
TUESDAY, July 25, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The committee for that purpose appointed, brought in their report for estab-
lishing an hospital, which was read.
The committee appointed to consider the ways and means of establishing a
post, brought in their report, which was read, and ordered to be considered
to-morrow. v.
The committee appointed to consider and report their opinion of the resolu-
tion of the house of commons, brought in their report, which was read, and
ordered to lie on the table for the perusal of the members.
VoI. I. 16
122 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the address to the assem-
bly of Jamaica, and the same being debated by paragraphs, was agreed to as
follows:
MR. SPEAKER, AND GENTLEMEN OF THE AssBMBLY OF JAMAICA,
We would think ourselves deficient in our duty, if we suffered this Con-
gress to pass over, without expressing our esteem for the assembly of Jamaica.
Whoever attends to the conduct of those who have been entrusted with the
administration of British affairs, during these last twelve years, will discover in
it, a deliberate plan to destroy, in every part of the empire, the free constitu-
tion, for which Britain has been so long and so justly famed. With a dexterity,
artful and wicked, they have varied the modes of attack, according to the dif-
ferent characters and circumstances of those whom they meant to reduce. In
the East-Indies, where the effeminacy of the inhabitants promised an easy con-
quest, they thought it unnecessary to veil their tyrannic principles under
the thinnest disguise. Without deigning even to pretend a justification of
their conduct, they sacrificed the lives of millions to the gratification of their
insatiable avarice and lust of power. In Britain, where the maxims of freedom
were still known, but where luxury and dissipation had diminished the wonted
reverence for them, the attack has been carried on in a more secret and indi-
rect manner: Corruption has been employed to undermine them. The Ame-
ricans are not enervated by effeminacy, like the inhabitants of India ; nor
debauched by luxury, like those of Great-Britain : It was, therefore, judged
improper to assail them by bribery, or by undisguised force. Plausible systems
were formed; specious pretences were made : All the arts of sophistry were
tried to shew that the British ministry had by law.a right to enslave us. The
first and best maxims of the constitution, venerable to Britons and to Ameri-
cans, were perverted and profaned. The power of parliament, derived from
the people, to bind the people, was extended over those from whom it was never
derived. It is asserted, that a standing army may be constitutionally kept
among us, without our consent. Those principles, dishonorable to those who
adopted them, and destructive to those to whom they were applied, were ne-
vertheless carried into execution by the foes of liberty and of mankind. Acts
of parliament, ruinous to America, and unserviceable to Britain, were made to
bind us; armies, maintained by the parliament, were sent over to secure their
operation. The power, however, and the cunning of our adversaries, were
alike unsuccessful. We refused to their parliaments an obedience, which our
judgments disapproved of: We refused to their armies a submission, which
spirits unaccustomed to slavery, could not brook. º
But while we spurned a disgraceful subjection, we were far from running
into rash or seditious measures of opposition. Filled with sentiments of loyalty
to our sovereign, and of affection and respect for our fellow-subjects in Britain,
we petitioned, we supplicated, we expostulated: Our prayers were rejected;--
our remonstrances were disregarded 3–0ur grievances were accumulated. All
this did not provoke us to violence.
An appeal to the justice and humanity of those who had injured us, and who
were bound to redress our injuries, was ineffectual; we next resolved to make
an appeal to their interest, though by doing so, we knew we must sacrifice our
own, and (which gave us equal uneasiness) that of our friends, who had never
offended us, and who were connected with us by a sympathy of feelings, under
oppressions similar to our own. We resolved to give up our commerce that
we might preserve our liberty. We flattered ourselves, that when, by withdraw:
ing our commercial intercourse with Britain, which we had an undoubted right
either to withdraw or continue, her trade should be diminished, her reventies
impaired, and her manufactures unemployed, our ministerial foes would be in-
duced by interest, or compelled by necessity, to depart from the plan of tyr
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 123
ranny which they had so long pursued, and to substitute in its place, a system
more compatible with the freedom of America, and justice of Britain. That
this scheme of non-in portation and non-exportation might be productive of the
desired effects, we were obliged to include the islands in it. From this ne-
cessity, and from this necessity alone, has our conduct towards them proceeded.
By converting your sugar plantations into fields of grain, you can supply your-
selves with the necessaries of life: While the present unhappy struggle shall
continue, we cannot do more.
But why should we make any apology to the patriotic assembly of Jamaica,
who know so well the value of liberty; who are so sensible of the extreme dan-
ger to which ours is exposed ; and º foresee how certainly the destruction of
ours must be followed by the destruction of their own P
We receive uncommon pleasure from observing the principles of our righte-
ous opposition distinguished by your approbation : We feel the warmest gra-
titude for your pathetic mediation in our behalf with the crown. It was indeed
unavailing—but are you tº blame P Mournful experience tells us that petitions
are often rejected, while the sentiments and conduct of the petitioners entitle
what they offer to a happier fate. #
That our petitions have been treated with disdain, is now become the small-
est part of our complaint: Ministerial insolence is lost in ministerial barbarity.
it has, by an exertion peculiarly ingenious, procured those very measures,
which it laid us under the hard necessify of pursuing, to be stigmatized in
parliament as rebellious : It has employed additional fleets and armies for the
infamous purpose of compelling us to abandon them : It has plunged us in all
the horrors and calamities of civil war: It has caused the treasure and blood
of Britons (formerly shed and expended for far other ends) to be spilt and
wasted in the execrable design of spreading slavery over British America :
It will not, however, accomplish its aim : In the worst of contingencies, a
choice will still be left, which it never can prevent us from making.
The peculiar situation of your island forbids your assistance. But we have
your good wishes. From the good wishes of the friends of liberty and mankind,
we shall always derive consolation. º
Ordered, That a fair copy be made out, to be signed by the president, and
transmitted by the first opportunity.
The Congress then, resuming the report of the committee of the whole,
came to the following Resolutions:
Itesolved, That a body of forces not exceeding five thousand, be kept up in the
New-York department, for the purpose of defending that part of America, and
for securing the lakes, and protecting the frontiers from incursions or invasions.
That a farther sum, amounting to the value of one million of Spanish milled
dollars, be struck in bills of thirty dollars each.
As the signing so great a number of bills as has been directed to be issued
by this Congress, will require more time than the members can possibly devote
to that business, consistent with the attention due to the public service,
Resolved, That the following gentlemen be appointed and fully authorized to
sign the same, viz. Luke Morris, Samuel Meredith, Judah Foulke, Samuel
Morris, Frederick Kuhl, Robert Strettle Jones, Thomas Coombe, Ellis Lewis,
John Mease, Thomas Lawrence, Daniel Clymer, John Maxwell Nesbit, Thomas
Barclay, John Bayard, William Craig, Thomas Bartow, John Shee, Isaac Hazle-
hurst, Robert Roberts, Anthony Morris, Mordecai Lewis, George Mifflin,
Robert Tuckniss, Andrew Bunner, William Jackson, J oseph Sims, James
Milligan, and James Reed.
That each of the continental bills be numbered and signed by two of the
above gentlemen.
That each gentleman who signs the continental bills, be allowed and paid
out of the continental treasury, one dollar and one-third of a dollar for each
and every thousand bills signed, and numbered by him. gº
g
124 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
*-* * sº
*** **
That the gentlemen appointed to number and sign the bills, do give their
receipts for the same, expressing the number and denomination of them ; and
after numbering and signing them, shall deliver the same to the continental
treasurers, taking their receipts for the bills so delivered.
On motion, Resolved, That Mr. Samuel Adams, Mr. Lee, and Mr. J. Rut-
Iedge, with the secretary, be a committee to revise the journal of this Congress,
and prepare it for the press.
Adjourned till to-morrow at eight o’clock.
-** WEDNESDAY, July 26, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
Agreeable to order, the Congress resumed the consideration of the report of
the committee for establishing a post; and the same being debated, was agreed to
as follows :
That a post-master general be appointed for the United Colonies, who shall
hold his office at Philadelphia, and shall be allowed a salary of one thousand
dollars per annum for himself, and three hundred and forty dollars per annum
for a secretary and comptroller, with power to appoint such, and so many depu-
ties as to him may seem proper and necessary.
That a line of posts be appointed under the direction of the post-master
general, from Falmouth in New-England to Savannah in Georgia, with as many
cross posts as he shall think fit.
That the allowance to the deputies in lieu of salary and all contingent ex-
penses, shall be twenty per centum on the sums they collect and pay into the
general post-office annually, when the whole is under or not exceeding one
thousand dollars, and ten per centum for all sums above one thousand dollars
3, Véal".
%. the several deputies account quarterly with the general post-office, and
the post-master general annually with the continental treasurers, when he
shall pay into the receipt of the said treasurers, the profits of the post-office;
and if the necessary expense of this establishment should exceed the pro-
duce of it, the deficiency shall be made good by the United Colonies, and paid to
the post-master general by the continental treasurers. “sº
On motion made, Resolved, That it be recommended to the post-master gen-
eral to establish a weekly post to South-Carolina.
That it be left to the post-master general to appoint a secretary and comp-
troller. &
The Congress then proceeded to the election of a post-master general for
one year, and until another is appointed by a future Congress, when Benjamin
Franklin, esq. was unanimously chosen.
Adjourned till to morrow at eight o’clock.
THURSDAY, July 27, 1775.
, Met according to adjournment.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on esta-
blishing an hospital for the army, and the same being debated, was agreed to as
follows:
That for the establishment of an hospital for an army, consisting of twenty
thousand men, the following officers and other attendants be appointed, with
the following allowance or pay, viz.
One director-general and chief physician, his pay per day, four dollars.
Four surgeons, each ditto, one and one third of a dollar.
One apothecary, ditto, one and one third of a dollar.
Twenty surgeons’ mates, each ditto, two thirds of a dollar.
One clerk, ditto, two thirds of a dollar.
Two store-keepers, each four dollars per month.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 125
******
adº.
One nurse to every ten sick, one fifteenth of a dollar per day, or two dollars
per month.
Labourers occasionally.
The duty of the above officers :
The director to furnish medicines, bedding and all other necessaries, to pay
for the same, superintend the whole, and make his report to, and receive or-
ders from the commander in chief.
Surgeons, apothe- To visit and attend the sick, and the mates to obey the
cary and i.; orders of the physicians, surgeons and apothecary.
Matron. To superintend the nurses, bedding, &c.
Nurses. To attend the sick, and obey the matron’s orders.
Clerk. To keep accounts for the director and store keepers.
Store-keeper. To receive and deliver the bedding and other necessaries
by order of the director.
The Congress then proceeded to the election of officers for the hospital,
when
Benjamin Church was unanimously elected to be director of, and physician
in, the hospital.
Resolved, That the appointment of the four surgeons and the apothecary be
left to doctor B. Church.
That the mates be appointed by the surgeons.
That the number of mates do not exceed twenty. &
That the number be not kept in constant pay, unless the sick and wounded
should be so numerous as to require the attendance of twenty, and to be di-
minished as circumstances will admit; for which purpose, the pay is fixed by
the day, that they may only receive pay for actual service.
That one clerk, two store-keepers, and one nurse to evey ten sick, be ap-
pointed by the director.
On motion made, Resolved, That the pay-master give bond, with two sure-
ties, in the sum of fifty thousand dollars, for the faithful performance of his
office. **.
That the bond be made payable to the same persons, to whom the bonds of
the continental treasurers are payable,
James Warren, esq. was then unanimously elected pay-master general.
Resolved, That the paymaster in the New-York department give bond to the
same persons as above directed, with two sureties, in the sum of twenty-five
thousand dollars, for the faithful performance of his office.
Adjourned till to-morrow at eight o’clock.
FRIDAY July 28, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
Ordered, That Mr. M'Kean, and Mr. Wilson, prepare the form of bonds
for the continental treasurers to execute.
The Congress then proceeded to the election of a pay-master for the forces
in the New-York department, when Jonathan Trumbull, jun. esq. was unani-
mously elected to that office.
The address to the people of Ireland being again read by Paragraphs, was
agreed to as follows:
To the people of Ireland. From the delegates appointed by the United Colonies of New-Hamp-
shire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island, and Providence Plantatious, Connecticut, New-York,
New Jersey, Pennsylvania, the lower counties on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina,
and South-Carolina, in general Congress at Philadelphia, the 10th of May, 1775.
FRIENDS AND FELLow-subjects
As the important contest, into which we have been driven, is now become in-
teresting to every European state, and particularly affects the members of the
british empire, we think it our duty to address you on the subject. We are
*
126 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
desirous, as is natural to injured innocence, of possessing the good opinion of
the virtuous and humane. We are peculiarly desirous of furnishing you with
a true state of our motives and objects; the better to enable you to judge of
our conduct with accuracy, and determine the merits of the controversy with
impartiality and pecision.
However incredible it may appear, that, at this enlightened period, the lea-
ders of a nation, which in every age has sacrificed hecatombs of her bravest
patriots on the altar of liberty, should presume gravely to assert, and, by force
of arms, attempt to establish an arbitrary sway over the lives, liberties, and
property of their fellow-subjects in America, it is, nevertheless, a most deplo-
rable and indisputable truth.
These colonies have, from the time of their first settlement, for near two
centuries, peaceably enjoyed those very rights, of which the ministry have,
for ten years past, endeavoured, by fraud and by violence, to deprive them.
At the conclusion of the last war, the genius of England and the spirit of
wisdom, as if offended at the ungrateful treatment of their sons, withdrew
from the British councils, and left that nation a prey to a race of ministers, with
whom ancient English honesty and benevolence disdained to dwell. From
that period, jealousy, discontent, oppression and discord have raged among all
his majesty’s subjects; and filled every part of his dominions with distress and
complaint. .
Not content with our purchasing of Britain, at her own price, clothing and
a thousand other articles used by near three millions of people on this vast
continent; not satisfied with the amazing profits arising from the monopoly of
our trade, without giving us either time to breathe after a long, though glorious
war, or the least credit for the blood and treasure we have expended in it; not-
withstanding the zeal we had manifested for the service of our sovereign, and
the warmest attachment to the constitution of Britain and the people of En-
gland, a black and horrid design was formed, to convert us from freemen into
slaves, from subjects into vassals, and from friends into enemies.
Taxes, for the first time since we landed on the American shores, were, with-
out our consent, imposed upon us; an unconstitutional edict to compel us to
furnish necessaries for a standing army, that we wished to see disbanded, was
issued; and the legislature of New-York suspended for refusing to comply
with it. Our ancient and inestimable right of trial by jury was, in many in-
stances, abolished; and the common law of the land made to give place to
admiralty jurisdictions. Judges were rendered, by the tenure of their com-
missions, entirely dependent on the will of a minister. New crimes were
arbitrarily created: and new courts, unknown to the constitution, instituted.
Wicked and insidious governors have been set over us; and dutiful petitions,
for the removal of even the notoriously infamous governor Hutchinson, were
branded with the opprobrious appellation of scandalous and defamatory. Hardy
attempts have been made, under colour of parliamentary authority, to seize
Americans, and carry them to Great-Britain to be tried for offences committed
in the colonies .Ancient charters have no longer remained sacred ; that of the
Massachusetts-Bay was violated ; and their form of government essentially
mutilated and transformed. On pretence of punishing a violation of some
private property, committed by a few disguised individuals, the populous and
flourishing town of Boston, was surrounded by fleets and armies; its trade
destroyed; its port blocked up; and thirty thousand citizens subjected to all
the miseries attending so sudden a convulsion in their commercial metropolis;
and, to remove every obstacle to the rigorous execution of this system of Qp-
pression, an act of parliament was passed evidently calculated to indemnify
those, who might, in the prosecution of it, even embrue their hands in the
blood of the inhabitants. º º
Though pressed by such an accumulation of undeserved injuries, America
still remembered her duty to her sovereign. A Congress, consisting of depu-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 127
ties from twelve United Colonies, assembled. They, in the most respectful
terms, laid their grievances at the foot of the throne; and implored his majes-
ty’s interposition in their behalf. They also agreed to suspend all trade with
Great-Britain, Ireland, and the West-Indies; hoping, by this peaceable mode
of opposition, to obtain that justice from the British ministry which had been
so long solicited in vain. And here permit us to assure you, that it was with
the utmost reluctance we could prevail upon ourselves, to cease our commercial
connexion with your island. Your parliament had done us no wrong. You
had ever been friendly to the rights of mankind; and we acknowledge, with
pleasure and gratitude, that your nation has produced patriots, who have nobly
distinguished themselves in the cause of humanity and America. On the other
hand, we were not ignorant that the labour and manufactures of Ireland, like
those of the silk-worm, were of little moment to herself; but served only to
give luxury to those who neither toil nor spin. We perceived that if we con-
tinued our commerce with you, our agreement not to import from Britain would
be fruitless, and were, therefore, compelled to adopt a measure, to which no-
thing but absolute necessity would have reconciled us. It gave us, however,
some consolation to reflect, that should it occasion much distress, the fertile
regions of America would afford you a safe assylum from poverty, and, in time,
from oppression also; an assylum, in which many thousands of your country-
men have found hospitality, peace, and affluence, and become united to us by
all the ties of consanguinity, mutual interest, and affection. Nor did Congress
stop here : Flattered by a pleasing expectation, that the justice and humanity
which had so long characterized the English nation, would, on proper applica-
tion, afford us relief, they represented their grievances in an affectionate ad-
dress to their brethren in Britain, and intreated their aid and interposition in
behalf of these colonies.
The more fully to evince their respect for their sovereign, the unhappy peo-
}. of Boston were requested by the Congress to submit with patience to their
ate ; and all America united in a resolution to abstain from every species of
violence. During this period, that devoted town suffered unspeakably. Its
inhabitants were insulted and their property violated. Still relying on the
clemency and justice of his majesty and the nation, they permitted a few regi-
ments to take possession of their town, to surround it with fortifications; and
to cut off all intercourse between them and their friends in the country.
With anxious expectation did all America wait the event of their petition—
All America laments its fate. Their prince was deaf to their complaints: and
vain were all attempts to impress him with a sense of the sufferings of his Ame-
rican subjects, of the cruelty of their task-masters, and of the many plagues
which impended over his dominions. Instead of directions for a candid enquiry
into our grievances, insult was added to oppression ; and our long forbearance
rewarded with the imputation of cowardice. Our trade with foreign states
was prohibited ; and an act of parliament passed to prevent our even fishing
9n our own coasts. Our peaceable assemblies, for the purpose of consult-
ing the common safety, were declared seditious; and our asserting the very
rights which placed the crown of Great-Britain on the heads of the three suc-
cessive princes of the house of Hanover, stiled rebellion. Orders were given
to, reinforce the troops in America. The wild and barbarous savages of the
Wilderness have been solicited, by gifts, to take up the hatchet against us;
and instigated to deluge our settlements with the blood of innocent and de-
engeless, women and children. The whole country was, moreover, alarmed
With the horrors of domestic insurrections. Refinements in parental cruelty,
at which the genius of Britain must blush | Refinements which admit not of
being even recited without horror, or practised without infamy! We should
e happy, were these dark machinations the mere suggestions of suspicion. We
**, Sorry to declare, that we are possessed of the most authentic and indubi-
table evidence of their reality.
128 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
—I-
The ministry, bent on pulling down the pillars of the constitution, endea-
voured to erect the standard of despotism in America; and if successful, Bri-
tain and Ireland may shudder at the consequences !
Three of their most experienced generals are sent to wage war with their
fellow-subjects: and America is amazed to find the name of Howe in the cata-
logue of her enemies: She loved his brother.
Despairing of driving the colonists to resistance by any other means than
actual hostility, a detachment of the army at Boston marched into the country
in all the array of war; and, unprovoked, fired upon, and killed several of the
inhabitants. The neighbouring farmers suddenly assembled, and repelled the
attack. From this, all communication between the town and country was
intercepted. The citizens petitioned the general for permission to leave the
town, and he promised, on surrendering their arms, to permit them to depart
with their other effects. They accordingly º their arms, and the
general violated his faith. Under various pretences, passports were delayed
and denied ; and many thousands of the inhabitants are, at this day, confined
in the town, in the utmost wretchedness and want. The lame, the blind, and
the sick, have indeed, been turned out into the neighbouring fields; and some,
eluding the vigilance of the centries, have escaped from the town, by swimming
to the adjacent shores.
The war having thus began on the part of general Gage's troops, the country
armed and embodied. The reinforcements from Ireland soon after arrived; a
vigorous attack was then made upon the provincials. In their march, the
troops surrounded the town of Charlestown, consisting of about four hundred
houses, then recently abandoned to escape the fury of a relentless soldiery.
Having plundered the houses, they set fire to the town, and reduced it to ashes.
To this wanton waste of property, unknown to civilized nations, they were
prompted the better to conceal their approach under cover of the smoke. A
shocking mixture of cowardice and cruelty, which then first tarnished the lustre
of the British arms, when aimed at a brother’s breast! But, blessed be God, they
were restrained from committing further ravages, by the loss of a very consi-
derable part of their army, including many of their most experienced officers.
The loss of the inhabitants was inconsiderable.
Compelled, therefore, to behold thousands of our countrymen imprisoned, and
men, women and children involved in promiscuous and unmerited misery
When we find all faith at an end, and sacred treaties*turned into trieks of
state; when we perceive our friends and kinsmen massacred, our habitations
plundered, our houses in flames, and their once-happy inhabitants fed only by
the hand of charity; who can blame us for endeavouring to restrain the pro-
gress of desolation? who can censure our repelling the attacks of such a barba-
rous band * who, in such circumstances, would not obey the great, the univer-
sal, the divine law of self-preservation ?
Though vilified as wanting spirit, we are determined to behave like men—
though insulted and abused, we wish for reconciliation—though defamed as
seditious, we are ready to obey the laws—and though charged with rebellion,
will cheerfully bleed in defence of our sovereign in a righteous cause. What
more can we say P What more can we offer?
But we forbear to trouble you with a tedious detail of the various and fruitless
offers and applications we have repeatedly made, not for pensions, for wealth,
or for honors, but for the humble boon of being permitted to possess the fruits
of honest industry, and to enjoy that degree of liberty, to which God and the
constitution have given us an undoubted right. *
Blessed with an indissoluble union, with a variety of internal resources, and
with a firm reliance on the justice of the Supreme Disposer of all human events,
we have no doubt of rising superior to all the machinations of evil and abandon:
ed ministers. We already anticipate the golden period, when liberty, with
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 129
all the gentle arts of peace and humanity, shall establish her mild dominion in
this western world, and erect eternal monuments to the memory of those yır-
tuous patriots and martyrs, who shall have fought and bled and suffered in
her cause.
Accept our most grateful acknowledgments for the friendly disposition you
have always shewn towards us. We know that you are not without your
grievances. . We sympathize with you in your distress, and are pleased to find
that the design of subjugating us, has persuaded administration to dispense
to Ireland, some vagrant rays of ministerial sunshine. Even the tender mer:
cies of government have long been cruel towards you. In the rich pastures of
Ireland, many hungry parricides have fed, and grown strong to labour in its
destruction. We hope the patient abiding of the meek may not always be
forgotten; and God grant that the iniquitous schemes of extirpating liberty
from the British empire may be soon defeated. But we should be wanting to
ourselves—we should be perfidious to posterity—we should be unworthy that
ancestry from which we derive our descent, shopl.d we submit, with folded
arms, to military butchery and depredation, to gratify the lordly ambition, or
sate the avarice of a British ministry. In defence of our persons and proper:
ties, under actual violation, we have taken up arms; when that violence shall
be removed, and hostilities cease on the part of the aggressors, they shall cease
on our part also.--For the achievement of this happy event, we confide in the
good offices of our fellow-subjects beyond the Atlantic. Of their friendly
disposition, we do not yet despond; aware, as they must be, that they have
nothing more to expect from the same common enemy, than the humble favour
of being last devoured.
Adjourned till to-morrow at eight o’clock.
SATURDAY, July 29, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report from the commit-
tee of the whole, and came to the following resolution:
Resolved, That the pay of the commissary-general of musters be forty dollars
per month.
Deputy commissary-general of stores and provisions, sixty dollars per ditto.
Deputy adjutant-general, fifty dollars per do.
Deputy muster-master-general, forty dollars per do.
Brigade-major, thirty-three dollars per do,
Commissary of artillery, thirty dollars per do.
Judge advocate, twenty dollars per do.
Colonel, fifty dollars per do.
Lieutenant-colonel, forty dollars per do.
Major, thirty-three dollars and one-third per do.
Captain, twenty dollars per do.
Lieutenant, thirteen dollars and one-third per do.
Ensign, ten dollars per do.
Serjeant, eight dollars per do.
Corporal, drummer, and fifer, each seven dollars and one-third per do.
Private, six dollars and two-thirds per do.
Adjutant, eighteen dollars and one-third per do.
Quarter-master, eighteen dollars and one-third per do.
Chaplain, twenty dollars per do.
That the pay of the light-infantry be the same as that in the regiment from
8. º to a private, both inclusive.
That in the artillery, the pay of a captain be twenty-six dollars and two-
thirds per month.
Captain-lieutenant, twenty dollars per do.
VoI. I. 17
130 - JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
!
__ a-L-A- *—— a-
Lieutenants, first and second, eighteen dollars and one-third per do.
Lieutenant fireworker, thirteen dollars and one-third per do.
Serjeant, eight dollars and one-third per do.
Corporal, seven dollars and a half per month.
, Bombardier, seven dollars per do.
Matross, six dollars and five-sixths of a dollar per do.
That the appointment of provost-martial, waggon-master, and master car-
penter, be left to the commander in chief of the army, who is to fix their pay,
having regard to the pay they receive in the ministerial army, and the propor-
tion that the pay of the officers in said army bears to the pay of our officers.
William Tuder, esq. was elected judge advocate of the army.
Resolved, That Mº Hillegas, and George Clymer, esqrs, be joint trea-
surers of the United Colonies: that the treasurers reside in Philadelphia, and
that they shall give bond, with surety, for the faithful performance of their of.
fice, in the sum of one hundred thousand dollars, to John Hancock, Henry
Middleton, John Dickinson, John Alsop, Thomas Lynch, Richard Henry Lee,
and James Wilson, esqrs. and the survivor of them, in trust for the United
Colonies.
That the provincial assemblies or conventions do each choose a treasurer for
their respective colonies, and take sufficient security for the faithful perfor-
mance of the trust.
That each colony provide ways and means to sink its proportion of the bills
ordered to be ...] by this Congress, in such manner as may be most effectual
and best adapted to the condition, circumstances, and equal mode of levying
taxes in such colony.
That the proportion or quota of each colony be determined according to the
number of inhabitants, of all ages, including negroes and mulattoes in each
colony; but, as this cannot, at present, be ascertained, that the quotas of the
several colonies be settled for the present, as follows, to undergo a revision and
correction, when the list of each colony is obtained.

New-Hampshire, 1240.69% Pennsylvania, 372208;
Massachusetts-Bay, 434244 Delaware, 87219%
Rhode-Island, 71959; Maryland, 3101743
Connecticut, / 248.189 Virginia, 496278
New-York, 248.139 || North-Carolina, 248.139
New-Jersey, 161290} | South-Carolina, 24,8139
——3,000,000
That each colony pay its respective quota in four equal annual payments,
the first payment to be made on or before the last day of November, which
will be in the year of our Lord, 1779; the second, on or before the last day of
November, 1780; the third, on or before the last day of November, 1781;
and the fourth or last, on or before the last day of November, 1782; and that
for this end, the several provincial assemblies, or conventions, provide for laying
and levying taxes in their respective provinces or colonies, towards sinking the
continental bills: that the said bills be received by the collectors in payment of
such taxes, and be by the collectors paid into the hands of the provincial trea;
surers, with all such other monies as they may receive in lieu of the continental
bills, which other monies the said provincial treasurer shall endeavor to get ex-
changed for continental bills, and where that cannot be done, shall send tº the
continental treasurers the deficiency in silver or gold, with the bills making
up the quota to be sunk in that year, taking care to cut, by a circular punch,
P an inch-diameter, an hole in each bill, and to cross the same, thereby to
render them unpassable, though the sum or value is to remain, fairly legible:
And the continental treasurers, as fast as they receive the said quotas; shall,
with the assistance of a committee of five persons, to be appointed by the
Congress, if sitting, or by the assembly or convention of the province of Penn-
sylvania, examine and count the continental bills, and in the presence of the
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 131
said committee, burn and destroy them. ... And the silver and gold sent them
to make up the deficiencies of quotas, they shall retain in their hands until
demanded in redemption of continental bills, that may be brought to them for that
purpose, which bills so redeemed, they shall also burn and destroy in presence
of the said committee. And the said treasurers, whenever they have silver or
gold in their hands for the redemption of continental bills, shall advertise the
same, signifying that he is ready to give silver or gold for such bills, to all per-
sons requiring it in exchange. g
The provincial treasurers and collectors are to have such allowances for their
respective services, as shall be directed by the several assemblies or conven-
tions, to be paid by their respective province or colony,
That the continental treasurers be allowed for their service this year, five
hundred dollars each.
Itesolved, That the pay-master general, commissary general, quarter-master
general, and every of their deputies, shall take an oath, truly and faithfully to
discharge the duties of their respective stations. *. -
Ordered, That the continental treasurers do pay to colonel William Thomp-
son, or his order, five thousand dollars, on account, being by advance for the
service of a battalion of riflemen under his command. tº
Resolved, That this Congress will, as soon as the public business permits,
adjourn to the fifth of September next. º,
Resolved, That the Congress will, on Monday next, consider of the state of
trade, after the tenth of next September.
Mr. M'Kean, from the committee, reported the form of a bond, to be given by
the joint continental treasurers.
Ordered, That the said committee do inspect into the sufficiency of the
Sureties.
Adjourned till Monday at eight o’clock.
MONDAY, July 31, 1775.
Met according to adjournment. .
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the re-
solve of the house of commons, and the same being debated by paragraphs, was
agreed to as follows:
The several assemblies of New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, having
referred to the Congress a resolution of the house of Commons of Great-Bri-
tain, which resolution is in these words.: t
LUNAs, 20° Die Feb. 1775.
“The house in a committee on the American papers. Motion made, and
question proposed :
“That it is the opinion of this committee, that when the general council and
assembly, or general court of any of his majesty’s provinces, or colonies in
America, shall propose to make provision, according to the condition, circum-
stance, or situation of such province or colony, for contributing their proportion
to the common defence (such proportion to be raised under the authority of the
general court, or general assembly of such province or colony, and disposable
by parliament) and shall engage to make provision also, for the support of the
civil #º and the administration of justice in such province or colony,
it will be proper, if such proposal shall be approved by his majesty, and the two
houses of parliament, and for so long as such provision shall be made accord-
ingly, to forbear in respect to such province or colony, to lay any duty, tax, or
*śsessment, or to impose any farther duty, tax, or assessment, except only such
duties as it may be expedient to continue to levy or impose, for the regulation
of commerce; the net produce or the duties last mentioned to be carried to
the account of such province or colony respectively.”
132 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
-**—
F. Congress took the said resolution into consideration, and are thereupon,
OI Opinion,
That the colonies of America are entitled to the sole and exclusive privi-
; lege of giving and granting their own money : that this involves a right of
deliberating whether they will make any gift, for what purposes it shall be
made, and what shall be its amount; and that it is a high breach of this privi-
lege for any body of men, extraneous to their constitutions, to prescribe the
purposes for which money shall be levied on them, to take to themselves the
authority of judging of their conditions, circumstances, and situations, and of
determining the amount of the contribution to be levied.
That as the colonies possess a right of appropriating their gifts, so are they
entitled at all times to enquire into their application, to see that they be not
wasted among the venal and corrupt for the purpose of undermining the civil
rights of the givers, nor yet be diverted to the support of standing armies, in-
consistent with their freedom and subversive of their quiet. To propose,
therefore, as this resolution does, that the moneys given by the colonies shall
be subject to the disposal of parliament alone, is to propose that they shall
relinquish this right of inquiry, and put it in the power of others to render their
gifts ruinous, in proportion as they are liberal. .
That this privilege of giving or of withholding our moneys, is an important bar-
rier against the undue exertion of prerogative, which, if left altogether without
controul, may be exercised to our great oppression; and all history, shows
how efficacious is its intercessions for redress of grievances and re-establish-
i. of rights, and how inprovident it would be to part with so powerful a me-
iator.
We are of opinion that the proposition contained in this resolution is unrea-
sonable and insidious : Unreasonable, because, if we declare we accede to it,
we declare, without reservation, we will purchase the favour of parliament,
not knowing at the same time at what price they will please to estimate their
favour; it is insidious, because, individual colonies, having bid and bidden again,
till they find the avidity of the seller too great for all their powers to satisfy ; are
then to return into opposition, divided from their sister colonies whom the
minister will have previously detached by a grant of easier terms, or by an
artful procrastination of a definitive answer. º
That the suspension of the exercise of their pretended power of taxation
being expressly made commensurate with the continuance of our gifts, these
must be perpetual to make that so. Whereas no experience has shewn that a
gift of perpetual revenue secures a perpetual return of duty or of kind disposi-
tion. On the contrary, the parliament itself, wisely attentive to this observa-
tion, are in the established practice of granting their supplies from year to
ear only. º
y Bºi. and determined, as we are, to consider, in the most dispassionate
view, every seeming advance towards a reconciliation made by the British
parliament, let our brethren of Britain reflect, what would have been the sa-
ºrifice to men of free spirits, had even fair terms been proffered, as these
insidious proposals were with circumstances of insult and defiance: A Pro-
position to give our money, accompanied with large fleets and armies, see.
addressed to our fears rather than to our freedom. "With what patience would.
Britons have received articles of treaty from any power on earth when borne
on the point of the bayonet by military plenipotentiaries?
We think the attempt unnecessary to raise upon us by force or by threats,
our proportional contributions to the common defence, when all know, and
themselves acknowledge, we have fully contributed, whenever called upon to
do so in the character of freemen. . . º
We are of opinion it is not just that the colonies should be required to
oblige themselves to other contributions, while Great-Britain possesses * *
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 133
nopoly of their trade. This of itself lays them under heavy contribution.
To demand, therefore, additional aids in the form of a tax, is to demand the
double of their equal proportion: if we are to contribute equally with the other
parts of the empire, let us equally with them ‘. free commerce with the
whole world. But while the restrictions on our trade shut to us the resources
of wealth, is it just we should bear all other burthens equally with those to
whom every resource is open?
We conceive that the British parliament has no right to intermeddle with
our provisions for the support of civil government, or administration of justice.
The provisions we have made, are such as please ourselves, and are agreeable
to our own circumstances: they answer the substantial purposes of government
and of justice, and other purposes than these should not be answered. We do
not mean that our people shall be burthened with oppressive taxes, to provide
sinecures for the idle or the wicked, under color of providing for a civil list.
While parliament pursue their plan of civil government within their own
jurisdiction, we also hope to pursue ours without molestation.
We are of opinion the proposition is altogether unsatisfactory, because it,
imports only a suspension of the mode, not a renunciation of the pretended
right to tax us: because, too, it does not propose to repeal the several acts of
parliament passed for the purposes of restraining the trade, and altering the
form of government of one of our colonies: extending the boundaries and
changing the government of Quebec; enlarging the jurisdiction of the courts
of admiralty and vice-admiralty; taking from us the rights of trial by a jury
of the vicinage, in cases affecting both life and property ; transporting us into
other countries to be tried for criminal offences; exempting, by mock-trial, the
murderers of colonists from punishment; and quartering soldiers on us in
times of profound peace. , Nor do they renounce the power of sºning
our own legislatures, and for legislating for us themselves in all cases whatso-
ever. On the contrary, to shew they mean to discontinuance of injury, they
pass acts, at the very time of holding out this proposition, for restraining the
commerce and fisheries of the provinces of New-England, and for interdicting
the trade of other colonies with all foreign nations, and with each other. This
proves, unequivocally, they mean not to relinquish the exercise of indiscri-
minate legislation over us. &
Upon the whole, this proposition seems to have been held up to the world,
to deceive it into a belief that there was nothing in dispute between us but the
mode of levying taxes; and that the parliament having now been so good as to
give up this, the colonies are unreasonable if not perfectly satisfied: "Whereas,
in truth, our adversaries still claim a right of demanding ad libvtum, and of
taxing us themselves to the full amount of their demand, if we do comply
with it. This leaves us without any thing we can call property. But, what
is of more importance, and what in this proposal they keep out of sight, as if
no such point was now, in contest between us, they claim a right to alter our
charters and establish laws, and leave us without any security for our lives or
liberties. The proposition seems also to have been calculated more particu-
larly to lull into fatal security, our well affected fellow-subjects on the other
side the water, till time should be given for the operation of those arms, which
a British minister pronounced would instantaneously reduce the “cowardly”
Sons of America to unreserved submission. But, when the world reflects how
inadequate to justice are these vaunted terms; when it attends to the rapid
and bold succession of injuries, which, during the course of eleven years, have
been aimed at these colonies; when it reviews the pacific and respectful ex-
postulations, which, during that whole time, were the sole arms we opposed to
them; when it observes that our complaints were either not heard at all, or
Were answered with new and accumulated injuries; when it recollects that
the minister himself, on an early occasion, declared “that he would never treat
i
134 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
-wº-
with America, till he had brought her to his feet,” and that an avowed partisan
of ministry has more lately denounced against us the dreadful sentence, “de-
lenda est Carthago;” that this was done in the presence of a British senate,
and being unreproved by them, must be taken to be their own sentiment, (espe-
cially as the purpose has already in part been carried into execution, by their
treatment of Boston and burning of Charlestown; when it considers the great
armaments with which they have invaded us, and the circumstances of cruelty
with which they have commenced and prosecuted hostilities; when these
things, we say, are laid together and attentively considered, can the world be
deceived into an opinion that we are unreasonable, or can it hesitate to believe
with us, that nothing but our own exertions may defeat the ministerial sentence
of death or abject submission.
On motion made, Resolved, That, Mr. Langdon, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Hop-
lºins, Mr. Deane, Mr. Clinton, Mr. Crane, Doctor Franklin, Mr. Rodney, Mr.
Johnson, Mr. Henry, Mr. Hewes, Mr. Gadsden, and Mr. Hall, be a committee,
in the recess of Congress, to make enquiry in all the colonies, after virgin lead,
and leaden ore, and the best methods of collecting, smelting, and refining it.
Resolved, That the above named gentlemen be a committee, in the recess of
the Congress, to inquire into the cheapest and easiest methods of making salt
in these colonies.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress took under consideration
the state of trade after the tenth of September, and after some debate, the
same was postponed to a future day.
On motion, Resolved, That when the Congress adjourns for recess, it be ad-
journed to meet at Philadelphia. -
Two petitions, one from sundry merchants in New-York, and the other
from sundry merchants in Philadelphia, respecting the sale of teas imported
before the late association, were laid before Congress.
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Adjourned till to-morrow at eight o’clock.
TUESDAY, August 1, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
Resolved, That the sum of five hundred thousand dollars be immediately
forwarded from the continental treasury, to the pay-master general, to be ap-
plied to the use of the army in Massachusetts-Bay, in such manner, as general
Washington, or the commander in chief for the time being, by his warrants,
shall limit and appoint; and if the above sum shall be expended before the
next meeting of the Congresss, then that general Washington, or the commander
in chief for the time being, be empowered to draw upon the continental trea-
Sury, for the sum of two hundred thousand dollars, in favor of the pay-master
general, to be applied for the use and in the manner above mentioned.
Ordered, That the delegates for Pennsylvania be a committee to receive and
count the above sum of five hundred thousand dollars, and forward the same,
under the care of the delegates of Massachusetts-Bay, provided so much is
now ready in the treasury. If that is not the case, then to receive, count, and
forward, by the said delegates, what is ready, and the remainder by the first
opportunity in the safest and best manner. r
Resolved, That a sum not exceeding, one hundred and seventy-five thousand
dollars be paid to the provincial convention of New-York, to be applied to-
wards the discharge of the moneys advanced and the debts contracted for the
public service, by the said provincial convention and the committee of Albany;
in pursuance of the directions of this Congress; and that the said provincial
convention account to this Congress, at their next meeting, for the application
of the said money. t
t
' A
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 135
Resolved, That the treasurers be, and they are hereby, ordered to pay to the
delegates of the colony of Connecticut, viz. Eliphalet Dyer, Roger Sherman,
and Silas Deane, esqrs. the sum of fifty thousand dollars, to be by them º
unto the governor and company of the said colony, in part of the sums by them
disbursed in the continental service : The said governor and company to ac-
count therefor.
Resolved, That the sum of one hundred thousand dollars be immediately
forwarded from the continental treasury, to the paymaster general, to be ap-
plied to the use of the army in the New-York department, in such manner as
general Schuyler, by his warrant, shall limit and appoint; and that if the
above sum shall be expended before the next meeting of Congress, then that
general Schuyler, or the commander in chief, for the time being, ifi that de-
partment, be empowered to draw upon the continental treasury, for a further
sum, not exceeding two hundred thousand dollars, to be applied for the use
and in the manner above mentioned.
* Resolved, That the sum of sixteen thousand dollars be paid to the delegates
of the colony of Pennsylvania, in full for the like sum by them borrowed by
order of the Congress, on the 3d of June last, for the use of the continent.
Resolved, That the sum of ten thousand dollars be placed in the hands of the
delegates of Pennsylvania, or any three of them, for contingent services, and
that out of the same, be paid the expenses incurred for raising and arming the
rifle companies, and for expresses and other small charges, of which the Con.
gress have not been able to procure exact accounts; and that the said com-
mittee do lay before the Congress, at their next meeting, an account of their
proceedings in that matter.
. Whereas, at a former Congress, it was resolved, that, if certain acts of par-
liament, in the continental association enumerated and complained of, should
nºt be repealed on or before the tenth day of September, 1775, the inhabitants
of these United Colonies would not, directly or indirectly, export any mer-
Shandise or commodity whatsoever, to Great-Britain, Ireland, or the West-
Indies; and as some doubts have arisen with respect to the true spirit and
construction of said resolve; to the end, that such doubts may be removed,
Resolved, That under the prohibition, in the said association contained, to
export to, or import from, the islands of Great-Britain and Ireland, this Con-
'gress intends to comprise all exportation to, or importation from, the islands
of Jersey, Guernsey, Sark, Aldernay, and Man, and every European island and
settlement within the British dominions; and that under the denomination of
the West-Indies, this Congress means to comprehend all the West-India
islands, British and foreign, to whatever state, power, or prince belonging,
or by whomsoever governed, and also the Summer islands, Bahama islands,
Berbicia and Surinam on the Main, and every island and settlement within the
latitude of the southern line of Georgia and the equator.
Adjourned to Tuesday, the fifth of September next. ſº
The above is a copy of the journal of the proceedings of the Congress, from their meeting
9.the tenth of May, to this time, except that some resolutions, relative to military ope:
rations, carrying on, are omitted,
tº JOHN HANCOCK, President.
CHARLES THOMSON, Secretary.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS.
1775.
—r—
(e
WEDNESDAY, Septemberg, 1775.
AGREEABLE to adjournment, the president and a number of the mem-
bers met, but there not being sufficient to enter upon business, the Congress
was adjourned from day to day until Wednesday the 13th.
WEDNESDAY, September 13, 1775.
Met according to adjournment.
The province of Georgia, having appointed delegates to represent that colo-
ny in Congress, and three of the delegates attending, their credentials were
produced, read, and approved, and are as follows:
Georgia. The alarming and critical situation of affairs upon the continent
of America, having, at length, roused the attention of this province, and the
several inhabitants thereof, being desirous of uniting with their sister colonies
in the great and important cause, a general election was held throughout the
province for delegates to sit in provincial Congress; and the said delegates
having so met in Savannah, on the fourth day of July, proceeded upon the
consideration of such busines as appeared to be fit and necessary; and among
other things, they made choice of five delegates to represent this province in
wr the grand Continental Congress, now sitting in Philadelphia, viz. Archibald
Bullock, esq. John Houston,esq. the rev. Dr. Zubly, Noble Wimberly Jones, esq.
and º Hall, esq. Now, therefore, be it known, and we, the several dele-
gates for the different parishes and districts in this province, in provincial
Congress assembled, do hereby declare the said Archibald Bullock and John
Houston, esqrs. the rev. Dr. Zubly, Noble Wimberly Jones, and Lyman Hall,
esqrs. duly and fairly elected, as the delegates, for this province; and we do
authorize and require the said Archibald Bullock, and John Houston, esqrs.
the rev. Dr. Zubly, Noble Wimberly Jones, and Lyman Hall, esqrs. or any
three of them, immediately to repair to the said city of Philadelphia, and there
to take their seats, as the representatives of the province of Georgia, in the
general Congress now sitting, to do, transact, join and concur with the seve:
ral delegates from the other colonies and provinces upon this continent, in all
such matters and things as shall appear eligible and fit, at this alarming time,
for the preservation and defence of our rights and liberties, and for the restora;
tion of harmony upon constitutional principles, between Great-Britain and
America. w
And we give and grant to the said Archibald Bullock, and John Houston,
esqrs, the rev. Dr. Zubly, Noble Wimberly Jones, and Lyman Hall, esqrs. or
any three of them, in whose fidelity, honor, and ability we very much confide,
our full and whole power in the premises; and do promise and engage, in be-
half of ourselves and our constituents respectively, (the inhabitants of the
province of Georgia) under the sacred ties of virtue, honor, and love of ºur
country, to abide by, enforce, and carry into execution, or endeavour, at the
risque and expense of life and property, so to do, all and whatsoever,0\r said
delegates, or any three of them, in concurrence with the rest of the delegate;
from the several colonies and provinces upon this continent, shall resolve and
agree upon, or, as shall be agreed and resolved upon by the said Continental
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 137
Congress, now sitting in Philadelphia aforesaid, while our said delegates or any
three of them shall be so sitting.
Signed in provincial Congress, this fifteenth day of July, 1775, by 53
members.
The delegates from Virginia, appointed by a convention of that colony, at
Richmond, August 11, 1775, produced their credentials, which were read and
approved, as follows:
VIRGINIA, IN convention, JAugust 11, 1775.
The convention being about to proceed to the choice of deputies to repre-
sent this colony in general Congress, Edmund Pendleton, esq., expressed his
most grateful acknowledgments for the honor done him in two former appoint-
ments to that important trust, but, on account of the declining state of his
health, entreated to be excused from the present nomination, which excuse
being accepted.
Resolved, unanimously, That the thanks of this convention are justly due to
George Washington, Patrick Henry, and Edmund Pendleton, esqrs. three of
the worthy deputies, who represented this colony in the late Continental Con-
gress, for their faithful discharge of that important trust, and this body are
only induced to dispense with their future services of the like nature, by the
appointment of the two former to other offices in the public service, incompa-
tible with their attendance on this, and the infirm state of health of the latter.
The convention then proceeded to the appointment of deputies to represent
this colony in general Congress, for one year, and the members having prepar-
ed tickets, with the names of the deputies to be appointed, and put the same
into the ballot-box, Mr. Robert Carter Nicholas, Mr. Cary, Mr. Pendleton, and
Mr. Adams were appointed to examine the ballot-box, and report upon whom
the majority fell, who retired, and after some time, returned into convention, and
reported, that they had, according to order, examined the ballot-box, and that
the numbers appeared as follows:
For the hon. Peyton Randolph, esq. 89 For the hon. Thomas Nelson, esq. 66
Richard Henry Lee, esq. 88 Richard Bland, esq. 61
Thomas Jefferson, esq. 85 George Wythe, esq. 58
Benjamin Harrison, esq. 83
Resolved, That the said Peyton Randolph, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas
Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson, Richard Bland, and George
Wythe, esqrs. be appointed deputies to represent this colony in general Con-
gress for one year; and that they have power to meet and to adjourn for such
time and to such place or places as may be thought most proper. 4-
Resolved, That the said deputies, or any four of them, be a sufficient number
to represent this colony.
SATURDAY, August 12, 1775.
Richard Bland, esq. returned this convention his most grateful acknowledg-
ments for the great honor they had pleased a third time to confer on him, by
appointing him one of the deputies to represent this colony in general Congress,
and said that this fresh instance of their approbation was sufficient for an old
man, almost deprived of sight, whose greatest ambition had ever been to receive
the plaudit of his country, whenever he should retire from the public stage of
life: That the honorable-testimony he lately received of this approbation,
joined with his present appointment, should ever animate him, as far as he was
ºple, to suppºrt the glorious cause in which America is now engaged, but that
his advanced age rendered him incapable of taking an active part in those
weighty and important concerns, which must necessarily be agitated in the
§reat council of the United Colonies; and, therefore, begging leave to decline
the honor they had been pleased to confer on him, and desiring that some per-
*on, more fit and able, might supply his place.
VoI. I. T 8
138 Journals OF CONGRESS, 1775.
*A
Resolved unanimously, That the thanks of this convention are justly due to
the said Richard Bland, esq. one of the worthy deputies who represented this
colony in the late Continental Congress, for his faithful discharge of that im-
portant trust, and this body are only induced to dispense with his future ser-
vices of the like nature, on account of his advanced age.
TUEs DAY, August 15, 1775.
The convention proceeded to the appointment of a deputy to represent this
colony in general Congress, in the room of Richard Bland, esq. who hath re-
signed, and the members having prepared tickets, with the name of the deputy
to be appointed, a committee was appointed to examine the ballot-box, and
report on whom the majority fell; who retired, and after some time, reported
that the numbers stood as follows:
Francis Lightfoot Lee, esq. . 37 | Carter Braxton, esq. . . . 36
Resolved, That the said Francis Lightfoot Lee, esq., be appointed a deputy to
represent this colony in general Congress.
(Signed) JOHN TAZEWELL, Clerk of the Convention.
The delegates from Maryland also produced the credentials of their appoint-
ment, which were read and approved, as follows:
At a meeting of the delegates appointed by the several counties of the pro-
vince of Maryland, at the city of Annapolis, on Wednesday, the 26th of July,
1775, and continued till the i4th day of August, in the same year:
Resolved, That the honorable Matthew Tilghman,esq. and Thomas Johnson,
jun. Robert Goldsborough, William Paca, Samuel Chase, Thomas Stone, and
John Hall, esqrs. or any three or more of them, be deputies to represent this
province in Continental Congress, and that they, or any three or more of them,
have full and ample power to consent and agree to all measures, which such
Congress shall deem necessary and effectual to obtain a redress of American
grievances; and further, we do authorize our said deputies, to représent and
act for this province in any continental Congress, which may be held before
the 25th day of March next. -
(Signed) & . G. DUWALL, Clerk.
The Congress being informed that only 172,520 dollars have been transmit-
ted to the pay-master general for the use of the army in the Massachusetts-Bay,
and that the general was under § difficulty for want of money:
Ordered, That the delegates for Pennsylvania do immediately send, under a
proper guard, to the pay-master general, for the use of the army in the Massa-
chusetts-Bay, the sum of 527,480 dollars, which, with that sent, will make up
the sum of 700,000 dollars voted at the last session.
Sundry letters received during the recess of Congress, were produced and
read, viz.
Two from general Washington, No. 4, and 5, with sundry enclosed papers;
four from general Schuyler, 16th and 21st of July, and 2d and 31st of August,
with sundry papers enclosed.
One from Messrs. L. Morris, and J. Wilson, of 6th September.
One from G. Bedford, deputy muster-master general, with enclosed papers.
* Also, a letter from the deputies of the several districts in the island of Ber:
muda, dated 12th of August, with an account of the provisions imported and
expended in that island, for three years last past, taken from the custom-house
books, and an estimate of the provisions necessary for the support of the inha-
bitants for one year. e
A memorial from James Stewart and Samuel Jackson, owners of the ship
Friendship, Thomas Jann, master, was presented to Congress and read, settſ;
forth that the said ship, on the 28th of August last, sailed from Maryland with
a cargo of tobacco, but being overtaken by the late storm, she was driven ""
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 139
shoals and much damaged, and got into Hampton road, with the loss of all her
masts; and praying that the memorialists may be allowed to unload said ship,
and that after being refitted, she may take the said cargo onboard, and proceed
on her voyage. *.
The Congress, taking into consideration the above memorial,
Resolved, That the said cargo be unloaded under the inspection of the com-
mittee of Norfolk, and that the said ship, being refitted, be allowed to take
said cargo on board again, and proceed on her voyage; and in case, on exami-
nation, the said ship is condemned as unfit for sea, that the said cargo be put
on board some other vessel, under the inspection of the committee aforesaid,
and exported. g
Information being given to Congress, that Dr. Franklin had on board the Ma-
ry and Elizabeth, capt. N. Falconer, from London, sundry cases, containing
his books, papers, and household furniture, which were in his use when he liv-
ed in London, and which were imported for his own use, and not for sale; and
it being submitted to the consideration of the Congress, whether such importa-
tion is comprehended within the first article of association,
Resolved, That such importation is not to be comprehended within the mean-
ing of the said first article of the association, and that the said books, papers,
and furniture may be landed and delivered to the owner.
A memorial from the committee of the county of Westmoreland, in the pro-
vince of Pennsylvania, was presented and read.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, September 14, 1775.
A number of letters received by several members, during the recess of Con-
gress, being produced, were read:
First, a letter from Joseph Hawley, esq., excusing his not acting as a com-
missioner for Indian affairs, on account of his bad state of health.
Second, a letter from Elisha Phelps, appointed a commissary for the northern
army by governor Trumbull, in pursuance of an order of Congress, together
with a copy of his commission * appointment.
Third, a letter from J. Reade, esq., secretary to general Washington, among
other things, intimating the desire of the general, that the clothing lately in:
tercepted by the committee of Philadelphia, should be forwarded to the camp
for the use of the American army.
Ordered, That the above clothing be immediately forwarded, under a proper
guard, by the delegates of Pennsylvania, to general Washington, for the use of
the American army. *. *
Fourth, a letter from the committee of safety in New York, with an enclosed
copy of a letter from general Washington :
These being taken into consideration,
Ordered, That the delegates for Pennsylvania prepare and lay before the
Congress to-morrow, an account of the powder belonging to the United Colo-
nies, received, and how it is disposed . also an account of all the powder
now in this city,
Rºsolved, That Edward Flemming, esq. be appointed deputy adjutant-general
for the army in the New-York or northern department, with the rank of a colo-
ael, and that the president make out a commission for him accordingly, and
forward the same by the first opportunity.
Rºsolved, That the president forward to general Schuyler four hundred
blank commissions for the officers in his army, to be by him filled up, agreeable
to the order of Congress.
alſº sundry letters from general Schuyler, which being taken into consi-
10n,
*ºd, That Samuel Stringer, esq. be appointed director of the hospital,
and chief physician and surgeon for the army in the northern department.
140 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
That the pay of the said Samuel Stringer, as director, physician, and sur-
geon, be four dollars per day.
That he be authorized and have power to appoint a number of surgeon’s
mates under him, not exceeding four. . .
That the pay of said mates be two-thirds of a dollar per day. *
That the number be not kept in constant pay, unless the sick and wounded
be so numerous as to require the constant attendance of four, and to be dimi-
nished as circumstances will admit, for which reason the pay is fixed by the
day, that they may only receive pay for actual service. #
That the deputy commissary general be directed to pay Dr. Stringer for
the medicines he has purchased for the use of the army, and that he purchase
and forward such other medicines as general Schuyler shall, by his warrant,
direct, for the use of said army.
That Mr. Dyer, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Jay, Mr. J. Adams. and Mr. Lewis, be a
committee to devise ways and means for supplying the continental army, with
medicines. 4 ! »
The delegates for Pennsylvania appointed, at the last session, a committee to
settle and pay the expenses incurred for raising and arming the rifle compa-
nies, as well as those incurred in consequence of a resolve for raising a compa-
ny of hussars, and for expresses, &c. informed the Congress, that, on account
of sundry difficulties, they had not executed that service, and desired that
some members from other colonies, where debts have been contracted, may be
added ; whereupon,
Resolved, That Mr. Chase, Mr. Nelson, Mr. Crane, Mr. Jay, and Mr. Deane,
be added to the delegates for Pennsylvania, and that any five of them be a quo-
rum to settle and pay the above accounts, and make report of their proceed-
ings to Congress.
The delegates from the colony of Georgia informed the Congress, that, agree-
ble to an order from their constituents, they had sundry papers from that co-
lony to lay before the Congress.
he papers, being produced, were read.
The commissioners for Indian affairs, in the northern department, having
transmitted to the Congress the minutes of a treaty held with the Six Nations
at Albany, in August, the same were read.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the letter received from
Messrs. L. Morris, and J. Wilson, of the 6th inst.
Resolved, That col. Lewis Morris, who is now at Pittsburg, be, and he is
hereby empowered to act as a commissioner for Indian affairs in the middle de-
partment, at the treaty proposed to be held there on the 23d instant, Dr. Frank-
lin, the standing commissioner, not being able to attend.
Ordered, That the president write to Messrs. Morris and Wilson, and in-
form them of the foregoing resolution
Adjourned till ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, September 15, 1775.
Itesolved, That Dr. Thomas Walker be appointed a commissioner for In-
dian affairs in the middle department, in the room of P. Henry, esq. who has
declined that service.
The delegates from Georgia informed the Congress, that when the conven-
tion of that colony agreed to enter into the continental association, they re-
solved, among other things, “that if any vessel arrived from Great-Britain,
between the sixth day of July and the sixth of August, the goods. imported
should, at the option of the importer, either be re-shipped, or put into stoº
and there remain until the Congress determined what should be done with
them.”—That during that time two vessels had arrived with goods, which
were stored; they therefore desired the determination of the Congress on
that matter.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 141
After some debate thereon,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention of Georgia, to cause
the cargoes, which have arrived there from Great-Britain or Ireland, between
the sixth day of July and the sixth day of August, at the election of the
proprietors, either to be sent back or sold at public auction; that out of the
monies arising from such sales, the proprietors or shippers, be paid the prime
cost of said cargoes, and all charges attending the same, and that the overplus
be retained by the said convention, and by them applied toward putting their
province into a posture of defence.
Adjourned till nine o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, September 16, 1775.
The delegates from New-Hampshire attended in Congress, and produced
their credentials, which were read and approved, and are as follows:
CoLony of New-HAMPSHIRE, IN CoNGREss, AT Exeter, Jiugust 23, 1775.
Voted, That colonel Josiah Bartlett be appointed in the room and stead of
John Sullivan, esq. now engaged in the army, in conjunction with captain John
Langdon, to represent this colony in the Congress of the United Colonies at
Philadelphia, and that either of them, in the absence of the other, have full
power to represent this colony at said Congress.
(Signed) MATTHEW THORNTON, President.
A true copy from the journal,
Attest, E. THOMSON, Secretary.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the letters from general Wash-
ington, No. 4, 5, and 6, and one since received, but not numbered; and after
debate, e
Resolved, That the further consideration of them be deferred till Monday
Inext.
Resolved, That this Congress will, on Wednesday next, take into conside-
ration the state of the trade of America.
Adjourned till Monday next, nine o’clock.
MONDAY, September 18, 1775.
The committee appointed to settle the accounts of the riflemen, &c. laid
before the Congress the account of Mr. West and Mr. Donaldson, amounting
to 5303. 62-90 dollars, money by them advanced for the purchase of rifles and
shirts, &c. for the privates of several companies, which is charged to the res-
pective companies, and for blankets and ammunition supplied them, which is
. to the continent, which account the committee have examined and
nd just.
Ordered, That the committee pay the above account.
An express arriving with letters from general Schuyler, dated Isle-aux-Noix,
September 8th, and the same being read,
Resolved, That the consideration of the letters from general Washington,
be deferred till to-morrow.
Resolved, That the Congress will, to-morrow, take into consideration the
letters from general Schuyler.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
TUESDAY, September 19, 1775.
The Congress took into consideration the letters from general Schuyler:
º, That the Secretary publish an authentic account of the intelligence
received. Z
Resolved. That Mr. Deane, Mr. Chase, Mr. Rutledge, and Mr. Jay, be a
committee to prepare the draught of a letter to general Schuyler.
A motion being made in behalf of one Col. John Fenton, who had been
taken into custody by the convention of New-Hampshire, for being concerned
142 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
in measures dangerous to the rights of Americans, and who, by order of the
general, now remains, on his parole, a prisoner at Hartford; that he, may be
permitted to go to Great-Britain or Ireland,
Resolved, That general Washington be instructed to discharge the said
Col. John Fenton from custody, on his giving his parole of honor to proceed
to New-York, and from thence to Great-Britain or Ireland, and not to take up
arms against the good people of this continent. -
Resolved, That the Congress will, to-morrow, take into consideration the
letters from general Washington.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
WEDNESDAY, September 20, 1775.
Resolved, That the president write to the provincial convention of New-
York, or the committee of safety, directing them immediately to equip and
send forward the whole of the troops ordered to be raised, to join general
Schuyler, with all possible expedition.
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to general Schuyler, brought in
the same, which being debated, corrected and approved,
Ordered, That it be signed by the president and forwarded immediately.
Ordered, That a copy of general Schuyler’s letter, and of the enclosed papers,
and of the letter sent to general Schuyler, beinmediately forwarded to general
Washington. .*
The Congress resumed the consideration of the letters from gen. Washington.
Resolved, That Mr. Gridly have a commission as a colonel of the artillery.
That the appointment of a brigadier-general be deferred till to-morrow.
The subject of trade to this day referred being postponed,
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow. §
THURSDAY, September 21, 1775.
The committee of accounts laid before the Congress sundry accounts, viz.
An account of Timothy Matlack, employed as a clerk, amounting to 162
dollars.
An account of James Milligan, for sundry sail cloth, Russia sheeting, ozna-
brigs, &c. bought at the desire of Mr. Wilson, by order of the Congress, for
the use of the continental army, amounting to 4842 3-90 dollars.
An account from the committee of Berks, advanced for sundry rifle compa-
mies, amounting to 5521 1-5 dollars, including a considerable Suin advanced to
colonel Thompson.
Ordered, That the two first be paid immediately, and that the last be referred
back to the committee, for examination, and if found just, that they pay it.
Resolved, That the appointment of a brigadier-general be deferred.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the general’s letters, and
thereupon came to the following resolutions: ^.
Resolved, That general Washington be ordered to issue commissions to
majors Box, Scammel, and Brewer, as brigade-majors.
That the pay of the judge-advocate in the army in the Massachusetts-Bay,
for himself and his clerk, be fifty dollars per month, from the time of his ap-
pointment.
That a committee of five be appointed to take into consideration the me-
morial of the commissary general, and report their opinion on the best means
of supplying the army with provisions.
The ballots being brought in and examined, the following persons were
elected, viz. Mr. Willing, Mr. Deane, Mr. P. Livingston, Mr. Cushing and
Mr. Ward. 4. * º
Resolved, That general Schuyler be empowered to nominate and appoint à
proper person to the office of brigade-major, in the army under his command,
and to issue a commission accordingly. *
Journals of CoNGRESS, 1775. 143
4 Resolved, That the Congress will, to-morrow, take into consideration the state
of the trade of North-America.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow. *
FRIDAY, September 22, 1775.
The committee of claims reported, that the account of Andrew M’Neare,
deor-keeper, for his service, amounting to 57.8 dollars, is reasonable, and ought
to be .
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Sundry letters were laid before the Congress and read, viz.
Two from the committee of safety in New-York, with sundry papers en-
closed.
One from Mr. Morris and Mr. Wilson, dated Pittsburg, September 14,
with sundry papers enclosed. •
The committee of safety for Pennsylvania, having informed the Congress
that they have taken into custody major Rogers, an i. in the king's service,
Resolved, That in case the committee find nothing against major Rogers,
except that of his being a half-pay officer, he be discharged, on giving his
parole not to take up arms against the inhabitants of America in the present
controversy between Great-Britain and America.
The order of the day being read,
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to take into consideration the state
of the trade of America, and report their opinion.
That the committee consist of seven.
The ballots being taken and examined, the following persons were chosen,
viz. Dr. Franklin, Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr. Jay, Mr. Randolph, Mr. Johnson, Mr.
Deane, and Mr. Willing.
The committee of claims reported, that the account of William Shed,
amounting to 48 dollars, for his services as messenger, last session, is reason-
able, and ought to be paid. &
Ordered, That the above account be paid.
Adjourned till to-morrow at nine o’clock.
SATURDAY, September 23, 1775.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to purchase a quantity of woollen
goods for the use of the army, to the amount of five thousand pounds sterling.
That the said goods, when bought, be placed in the hands of the quarter-
masters general of the continental armies, and that the same be by them sold
out to the private soldiers of said armies, at prime cost and charges, including
a commission of five per centum to the said quarter-masters general for their
trouble.
That the committee consist of five.
The ballot being taken and examined, the following members were chosen :
Mr. Lewis, Mr. Alsop, Mr. Willing, Mr. Deane, and Mr. Langdon.
The committee of claims produced two receipts for money received of James
Whitehead.
One signed by Richard Brown, a captain of one of the rifle companies from
Maryland, for fifty pounds Pennsylvania currency, 133 1-5 dollars.
The other signed by Michael Cressop, a captain of the other rifle company from
Maryland, for one hundred pounds Pennsylvania currency, 266 2-3 dollars,
received for the use of their respective companies, marching to Cambridge in
the continental service.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid to James Whitehead, and charged
to the respective companies.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to devise ways and means of supply-
144 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775
ing the army with medicines, do buy a parcel of drugs in the hands of Mr. Ra-
palje, which he offers at the prime cost. *
Adjourned to mine o’clock, on Monday next.
MONDAY, September 25, 1775.
The Congress took into consideration the letters from general Washington,
No. 5, and 6, and two others not numbered.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare an answer.
The ballots being taken and examined, the following members were chosen,
viz. Mr. Lynch, Mr. Lee, and Mr. Adams.
The committee of claims having represented to the Congress, that in conse-
quence of the order of Congress, dated the first of August last, they have drawn
out of the treasury the sum of 10,000 dollars, and that over and above, they
have drawn on the treasurers for the further sum of 1,926 1-4 dollars, to dis-
charge sundry accounts, which the Congress ordered them to pay, they there-
fore move that the Congress will issue an order for the same to indemnify the
treasurers. {
The congress taking this matter into consideration,
Resolved, That the committee’s draught for the above sum be deemed valid,
and allowed good in the treasurer’s accounts.
As accounts are brought in different from those committed to the foregoing
committee to liquidate, and as it is proper that the accounts of the continent
be put into a proper train of liquidation and settlement, in order for payment,
Resolved, That a committee of accounts or claims be now appointed to con-
sist of one member from each of the United Colonies, to whom all accounts
against the continent are to be referred, who are to examine and report upon
the same, in order for payment, seven of them to be a quorum.
That the committee consist of the following members, viz. Mr. Langdon,
Mr. Cushing, Mr. Ward, Mr. Deane, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Smith, Mr. Willing,
Mr. Rodney, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Nelson, Mr. Gadsden, and Mr. Zubly.
That the former committee deliver to the committee now appointed, all the
books, accounts, and papers in their hands.
The delegates from Pennsylvania produced an account of the powder im-
ported, and how it has been disposed of.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the letter from Messrs. Morris
and Wilson, of 14th September, with the enclosed papers, and after some de-
bate, the same was referred till to-morrow.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, September 26, 1775.
The order of the day was called for, but as the delegates for Virginia and
Pennsylvania were not present, the consideration of the letters and papers from
Messrs. Morris and Wilson was deferred till to-morrow.
The committee appointed to prepare an answer to General Washington’s
Hetters, reported the same, which was read, debated, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the same being transcribed, be signed by the president, and
be forwarded immediately. # l
The committee appointed to examine the journal of the Congress during the
last sessions, in order for the press, reported a copy, which was in part read.
Ordered, That the remainder be read to-morrow.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, September 27, 1775.
The committee of claims applied to the Congress for advice how to charge
sundry accounts, and the same being taken into consideration,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 145
Resolved, That the expense of kettles, canteens, and spoons, supplied to the
soldiers, be charged to the continent.
Resolved, That the sum of 160,000 dollars be paid to Connecticut, for sup-
plies issued by that colony for the service of the United Colonies, to be ac-
counted for by them.
The committee of claims reported, that in their opinion, the following ac-
counts were reasonable, and ought to be paid.
d ºnce due to Robert Erwin, wagon-master, amounting to 887 1-15 of a
Olla.I’.
An account of George Frank, for riding express, amounting to 38 dollars.
An account of the committee of Northampton county, for money advanced
for sundry rifle companies, amounting to 3182 39-90 of a dollar.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee
ºned to examine the journals of the last sessions, and the same being
read, *
Ordered, That the journal, as now corrected, be published by the secretary,
and that he superintend and correct the press.
A memorial of Samuel and Robert Purviance, was presented and read,
setting forth, that they had chartered a vessel to cary a load of wheat, that the
said vessel in going from Philadelphia to Chester-Town, Maryland, was lost in
the late storm, by which they were prevented from exporting, before the 10th
of September, the cargo which they had actually purchased ; and therefore
praying for liberty to export the cargo to a foreign port.
Ordered, to lie on the table.
Certain resolutions of the committee of the city and liberties of Philadel-
phia, respecting an application made to them by a captain, for leave to take a
cargo of flour to Gloucester, in Massachusetts-Bay, were laid before the Con-
gress and read.
Ordered, To lie on the table.
djourned to nine o’clock on Friday.
FRIDAY, September 29, 1775.
A letter from general Washington, dated the 21st of September, with
sundry enclosed papers, being received by express, was laid before Congress
and read.
The committee of claims reported, as their opinion, that the following ac-
counts ought to be paid :
A balance due to John Powell, for riding express, amounting to 451-3 dollars.
An account of Matthias Stough, for money advanced to the rifle companies,
amounting to 710 64-90 dollars.
An account of James Alexander for riding express, a balance due to him,
amounting to 172 26-90 dollars.
ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
Resolved, That when any accounts are ordered to be paid, the orders be
drawn on the treasurers and signed by the president.
Resolved, That a committee of three members be appointed to repair imme-
diately to the camp at Cambridge, to confer with general Washington, and
with the governor of Connecticut, lieutenant-governor of Rhode-Island, the
council of Massachusetts, and the president of the convention of New-Hamp-
shire, and such other persons as to the said committee shall seem proper,
touching the most effectual method of continuing, supporting, and regulating
a continental army.
Resolved, That the appointment of said committee be deferred till to-
Thorrow.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
VoI. I. 19
146 Journals OF CONGRESS, 1775.
SATURDAY, spenber 30, 1775.
The Congress proceeded to the election of a committee, and the ballots being
examined, Mr. Lynch and Dr. Franklin were found to be duly elected by a
majority of votes, and two other members having an equal number,
Resolved, That the Congress proceed to the election of another member for
the committee, and that this rule be observed in all similar cases.
Accordingly, the ballots being taken, the committee of examination reported,
that Mr. Harrison is duly elected.
Resolved, That a committee of five members be appointed to draw up in-
structions for the above committee. * sé
The ballots being taken, the ſollowing members were chosen: Mr. J. Rut-
ledge, Mr. Lee, Mr. Johnson, Mr. R. Livingston, and Mr. S. Adams.
Resolved, That the presidentinform general Washington, by express, of the
resolution of Congress, appointing a committee to wait on him, in order to con-
sult with him, touching the most effectual method of continuing, supporting,
and regulating a continental army.
That a letter to the same import be written to the governor of Connecticut,
and that the president therein request him, in case he cannot himself attend,
that he will appoint a person to represent that colony, and confer with the com-
mittee of the Congress on the subjects entrusted to them.
That like letters be written to the council of Massachusetts-Bay, and to the
lieutenant-governor of Rhode-Island, and to the president of the convention
of New-Hampshire.
The committee of claims reported, that in their opinion, the following ac-
counts ought to be paid, viz.
A certificate presented by William Hall, signed by captain Daniel Morgan,
for necessaries furnished by George Kyser to his company, another certificate
presented by said W. Hall, and signed by said D. Morgan, for necessaries
furnished his company by Mesheck Sexton, both the above sums, amounting in
the whole to 71 2-8 dollars, to be charged to said Morgan’s company.
An account of necessaries furnished by John Jordan, of Lancaster, for cap-
tain Ross and captain Smith’s companies of riflemen, amounting to 432 1-5
dollars, to be charged to the continent.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
The committee appointed to consider the trade of America, brought in their
report, which was read, and referred to Monday next.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday next.
MONDAY, October 2, 1775.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on trade,
and after some debate,
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into consideration the state of the trade of the thirteen
United Colonies.
That the above report be referred to that committee.
The committee appointed to prepare instructions, reported a draught, which
being read and debated by paragraphs, was agreed to.
Ordered, That a fair copy be made out and delivered to the committee ap-
pointed to wait on the general.
Resolved, That where the word month is used, the Congress means calendar
. by which the pay of the men in the service of the continent is to be re-
ulated.
8 Itesolved, That the pay of the second lieutenants in the marching regiments
be the same as that of the first lieutenants.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to morrow.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 147
A. : * *.
TUESDAY, October 3, 1775.
The committee of claims reported that, in their opinion, the following ac
counts ought to be paid :
The account of Frederick Bicking for 56 reams of paper for the continental
currency, amounting to 388 4-5 dollars.
The account of Samuel Boughman, for the entertainment of capt. Ross's com-
pany, amounting to 14.1 dollars.
wo accounts from the committee of Trenton for wagonage and sundry ex-
presses, amounting together to the sum of 1034-5.
Two accounts delivered in by Casper Weitzal, for expenses for diet and pro-
visions for capt. Lowden’s company of riflemen, amounting, together, to the
sum of 44.6 dollars.
Two accounts delivered in by Miles and Wistar, for necessaries furnished
by John Harris,jun, and Elias Younkman, to capt. Lowden’s company of rifle-
men, amounting to 96 dollars, to be charged to the said company.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
The committee of claims further reported an account of Frederick Blanken-
berg and Leonard Stein, retained as hussars, on which they desired to know
the determination of Congress.
Ordered, That the above named Frederick Blankenberg and Leonard Stein
be allowed to retain the clothes made for them, and that, over and above, they
be paid 16 dollars each for the time they were retained in service.
Resolved, That the commissary general contract for such quantities of beef
and pork as may be thought proper by the general, and have the same salted up
in convenient houses near the camp, according to his scheme recommended by
the general to the consideration of the Congress.
Resolved, That the sum of three hundred thousand dollars be immediately
sent to the pay-master general, for the use of the army in the Massachusetts
Bay.
Resolved, That the committee who are appointed to repair to the camp, be
requested to take the charge of the above sum, or as much of it as they con-
veniently can.
Itesolved, That the expenses of the committee be paid out of the continental
treasury.
One # the delegates for Rhode-Island laid before the Congress a part of the
instructions given them by their two houses of legislature, August, 26, 1775.
Resolved, That the Congress will on Friday next take the above into consi-
deration.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to repair to the camp, do confer with
Mr. Rittenhouse, and enquire of him whether he apprehends he can be of ser-
Vice to the continent as an engineer, and, if he can, to engage him, and desire
he would, with all convenient speed, repair to the camp.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a commit.
tee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of the trade of these colo-
IlleS,
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, October 4, 1775.
The committee of claims reported that, in their opinion, the following ac-
count ought to be paid. * &
An account of the committee of Bedford county, for necessaries furnished to
the company of riflemen raised therein, amounting to 755 1-3 dollars, of which
* {3} 3:3 dollars ought to be charged to the continent, and the remaining
sum of 626 2.3 dollars ought to be charged to capt. Robert Clu 3. -
ny, as so much of their º to them. p ggage’s compa
148 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
—r-
Ordered, That the above be paid.
Two members who undertook to receive and count the money, for which an
order passed yesterday, to be sent to the pay-master general, reported that they
ſound only 189,467 dollars ready in the treasury, which they received and have
packed up ready to be sent forward, for which they gave their own receipts,
and now return the order drawn by the president. .
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of the trade of the thir-
teen United Colonies, and, after some time spent therein, the president resum-
ed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that the committee had taken into con-
sideration the matter referred to them, but not having come to any resolution,
desired leave to sit again. e sº
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into further consideration the state of the trade of the thir-
teen United Colonies. *
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, October 5, 1775.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into further consideration the state of the trade of
the thirteen United Colonies, and, after some time spent therein, the president
resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that not having come to any reso-
lution, they desired leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into their further consideration the state of the trade of
the thirteen United Colonies.
Sundry letters from London were laid before the Congress and read.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare a plan for in-
tercepting two vessels, which are on their way to Canada, laden with arms and
powder, and that the committee proceed on this business immediately.
The committee of claims reported, that, in their opinion, the following ac-
counts ought to be paid :
An account of Mrs. Stille, of Trenton, for the expenses of captain Ross,
and others, to be charged to the said Ross, until he makes it appear to be just
and reasonable, that the same be charged to the continent, amounting to 32 76-
90 dollars.
An account of Charles Axford, for provisions for captain Ross’s company,
amounting to 83-90 dollars.
An account rendered by Charity Britton, for provisions for the same com-
pany, amounting to 966-90 dollars, k
An account rendered by Joseph Clunn, for provisions for the same company,
amounting to 7 86-90 dollars.
An account of William and Thomas Bradford, for printing, amounting to
1787-90 dollars.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
Resolved, That Timothy Matlack, of this city, be employed as a store,
keeper, and that the implements provided for the hussars, and the tents and
linen, &c. purchased for the army, be put under his care. *
The committee appointed to prepare a plan for intercepting the two vessels
bound to Canada, brought in a report, which was taken into consideration ;
whereupon, sº
Resolved, That a letter be sent to general Washington, to inform him, that
Congress having received certain intelligence of the sailing of two north
country built brigs, of no force, from England, on the 11th of August last,
loaded with arms, powder, and other stores, for Quebec, without convoy, which
it being of importance to intercept, desire that he apply to the council of Mas-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 149
sachusetts-Bay, for the two armed vessels in their service, and despatch the
same, with a sufficient number of people, stores, &c. particularly a number of
oars, in order, if possible, to intercept the said two brigs and their cargoes,
and secure the same for the use of the continent; also, any other transports
laden with ammunition, clothing, or other stores, for the use of the ministerial
army or navy in America, and secure them in the most convenient places for
the purpose abovementioned; that he give the commander or commanders
such instructions as are necessary, as also proper encouragement to the ma-
rines and seamen, that shall be sent on this enterprize, which instructions are
to be delivered to the commander or commanders sealed up, with orders not to
open the same until out of sight of land, on account of secrecy,
That a letter be written to the said honorable council, to put the said vessels
under the general’s command and direction, and to furnish him instantly with
every necessary in their power, at the expense of the continent.
That the general be directed to employ the said vessels and others, if he
judge necessary, to effect the purposes aforesaid; and that he be informed that
the Rhode-Island and Connecticut vessels of force will be sent directly to their
assistance.
That a letter be wrote to governor Cooke, informing him of the above,
desiring him to despatch one or both the armed vessels of the colony of
Rhode island on the same service, and that he use the precautions abovemen-
tioned.
That a letter be written to governor Trumbull, requesting of him the largest
vessel in the service of the colony of Connecticut, to be sent on the enterprize
aforesaid, acquainting him with the above particulars, and recommending the
same precautions.
That the said ships and vessels of war be on the continental risque and pay,
during their being so employed.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, October 6, 1775.
Two letters from general Schuyler, dated Ticonderoga, 25th and 28th Sep-
tember, with sundry papers enclosed, were read.
Resolved, That orders issue to the continental treasurers, to collect for con-
tinental bills, a quantity of silver and gold, not exceeding 53,200 dollars in
value, for the use of the army in Canada.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the several provincial assemblies or
conventions, and councils or committees of safety, to arrest and secure every
person in their respective colonies, whose going at large may, in their opinion,
endanger the safety of the colony, or the liberties of Åmerica.
Ordered, That an authentic copy of the last resolve be transmitted by the
delegates to %. persons in their respective colonies.
Resolved, That the committee appointed for the importation of powder, be
directed to export, agreeable to the continental association, as much provisions
9; other produce of these colonies, as they shall judge expedient for the pur-
chase of arms and ammunition.
The Congress taking into consideration the letter from New-York, respecting
the fortifications ordered to be erected on Hudson's river, &
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to report to-morrow
mºung an answer to the convention of New-York.
The following members were chosen by ballot, viz: Mr. Morton, Mr. Beane
and Mr. R. Livingston. y
The committee appointed to prepare a plan, &c. shti * * * * * * * *
which was read: pp prep r a plan, &c. brought in a farther report,
º To lie on the table, for the perusal of the members. .
he order of the day was renewed, and the consideration of the instructions
#
150 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
given to the delegates of Rhode-Island, referred to this day, was put off to
Monday 16th instant.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, October 7, 1775.
Ordered, That the president draw on the treasurers, in favor of Francis
Lewis, John Alsop, Thomas Willing, Silas Deane, and John Langdon, esqrs.
for the sum of five thousand pounds sterling, to pay for the goods they were
ordered to purchase for the use of the jº army.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the letter from the con-
vention of New-York, brought in their report, which being read and debated,
was agreed to, as follows:
That the provincial convention of New-York be directed immediately to
render Hudson’s river defensible; that in doing this they be particularly at-
tentive to form such works as may be finished before the winter sets in. As it
is very doubtful whether any stone work can be properly made at this advanced
season, it is submitted to the judgment of the said convention, whether it could
not be more cheaply and expeditiously done by works of wood or fascines. If
they should think otherwise, that they be directed to go on with the work in the
way which they think best, since it is the opinion of the Congress that the work
should by no means be neglected.
But if the work be already begun on the plan sent us, that they render such
parts as can be first finished defensible, so that the labour be not thrown away,
if an attack should be made before the whole can be finished.
That the convention be directed to enquire whether there are not some
other places where small batteries might be erected, so as to annoy the enemy
on their passage, particularly, a few heavy cannon at or near Moore’s house,
and at a point on the west shore, a little above Verplank’s point.
That it be recommended to said convention, to establish, at proper distances,
posts to be ready to give intelligence to the country, in case of any invasion,
or by signals to give alarms in case of danger, and that they confer with the
assembly of Connecticut, and convention of New-Jersey, on the speediest }}] all-
ner of conveying intelligence in such cases, and receiving assistance when
necessary.
That the convention be farther directed to take the most effectual method
to obstruct the navigation of the said river, if, upon examination, they find it
practicable.
Resolved, That orders be sent to general Wooster, in case he has no orders
to the contrary from general Schuyler, that he immediately return to the bat-
teries erecting in the highlands, and there leave as many of his troops, as the
conductors of the work shall think necessary for completing them, and that
he repair with the remainder to New-York. *
A member from Pennsylvania laid before the Congress a resolve passed in the
house of assembly, in these words:
“In Assembly, September 30, 1775.
“The house taking into consideration the several letters sent down yesterday
by the governor, acquainting him with the intrusion of a number of people
into this province, under a pretended claim of the colony of Connecticut, to
the great annoyance of the good people of this province : . . .
“Resolved, That the delegates for this province, be specially directed to lay
the same before the Congress, with the mischievous tendency the pursuing
such measures will have, and procure the aid of that assembly to quiet the
minds of the good people of this province, and prevent further intrusion or
extension of settlements under the said claim, until the matter shall be deter-
mined by the king and council, to whom both sides have submitted the dispute.
i Extract from the journals,
CHARLESMOORE, Clerk of Assembly.”
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. f 51
*— –4– – a
*-
Resolved, That the same be referred to the delegates for Connecticut and
Pennsylvania, who are desired to report thereon on Monday next.
Resolved, That the letter from Messrs. Morris and Wilson of the 14th of
September, be taken into consideration on Monday next.
Adjourned to nine o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, October 9, 1775.
A letter from Joseph Trumbull, commissary-general, dated September 23,
1775, was read, desiring that sº 500 lawful money, 1666.2-3 dollars be paid to
Mr. Tracy, for money by him advanced to colonel Arnold, for the use of the
continent, and that the same be charged to his account.
Ordered, That the president draw on the treasurers for the above sum in
favour of Mr. Tracy, and that the same be charged as above.
A letter from general Schuyler, dated the 19th of September, with one
enclosed from general Montgomery, and sundry other papers, were read.
Resolved, That a committee of five members be appointed to take the same
into consideration, and report an answer.
†.". members chosen, viz. Mr. J. Adams, Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr.
Chase, Mr. R. Livingston, and Mr. Deane. -
The delegates of Pennsylvania, and Connecticut, informing the Congress,
that they were not yet ready to make a report on the matters referred to them,
Ordered, That they prepare and bring in their report on Wednesday next.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention of New-Jersey, that
they immediately raise, at the expense of the continent, two battalions, con-
sisting of eight companies each, and each company of sixty-eight privates,
officered with one captain, one lieutenant, one ensign, four serjeants, and four
corporals.
That the privates be inlisted for one year, at the rate of five dollars per cal-
endar month, liable to be discharged at any time, on allowing them one month’s
pay extraordinary.
That each of the privates be allowed, instead of a bounty, one felt hat,
a pair of yarn stockings, and a pair of shoes; the men to find their own arms.
That the pay of the officers, for the present, be the same as that of the offi-
cers in the present continental army, and in case the pay of the officers in the
army is augmented, the pay of the officers in these battalions shall, in like
manner, be augmented from the time of their engaging in the service.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, October 10, 1775.
The committee of claims reported the following accounts reasonable, and
which ought to be paid, viz.
The account of Du Simitiere, for translating the address of the United Co-
lonies, to the inhabitants of Quebec, amounting to eight dollars. $
William Govett's account of the expenses of a party of twenty-seven men,
escorting powder to Trenton, amounting to 67.2 dollars.
sº Rittenhouse's for thirty-six cuts for continental money, amounting to
Ollºll’S.
John Thornton’s account of provisions and ferriage for part of captain
Ross's company, amounting to 16 dollars. &
Christopher Ludwig's account for sundry expenses in forwarding powder to
Ticonderoga, amounting to 41.2 dollars. *
Qrdered, That the said accounts be paid.
The committee appointed to prepare an answer to general Schuyler's letters,
reported a draught, which was read, and ordered to lie on the table for the pe-
rusal of the members.
i 32 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
A motion being made relative to the appointment of officers in the conti-
nental army, and the same being largely debated, the determination thereon
was deferred till to-morrow.
The order of the day was renewed. *,
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, October 11, 1775.
A list of the matters referred to this day being read,
The delegates of Connecticut and Pennsylvania were called on to report, on
the matter referred to them, but not being yet ready,
Ordered, That they meet this afternoon, and prepare a report to be laid be-
fore Congress to-morrow.
The committee of claims reported that the following accounts ought to be
aid, viz.
p The account of the committee of Elizabeth-Town, for cartage, expresses,
and for provisions to captain Ross's company, amounting to 98.3 dollars, of
which 3 2-3 dollars to be charged to captain Ross.
James Leslie’s account of necessaries furnished to captain Ross's company,
amounting to 14.8 dollars.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid. *
The Congress resumed the consideration of the motion made yesterday, re-
specting the appointment of officers, and after debate, the same was postponed.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to report what subsistence
ought to be allowed to the officers and soldiers in the continental service, when
on their march, and in quarters, before they join the army. *
The members chosen, Mr. Kinsey, Mr. Deane, and Mr. Langdon.
The Congress took into consideration the letter to general Schuyler, which
being debated by paragraphs, was agreed to.
Ordered, That the same be transcribed and forwarded.
The committee appointed on the subsistence, &c. brought in their report,
which being read, was ordered to lie on the table to be taken up to-morrow.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, October 12, 1775.
The Congress taking into consideration the report of the committee respect-
ing subsistence for the soldiers, &c.
Resolved, That each captain and other commissioned officer, while in the re-
cruiting service of this continent, or on their march to join the army, shall be
allowed two dollars and two thirds of a dollar per week, for their subsistences
and that the men who enlist shall each of them, whilst in quarters, be allowed
one dollar per week, and when on their march to join the army, one dollar and
one third of a dollar for the same purpose.
Itesolved, That the president transmit to the convention of New Jersey;
blank commissions, to be filled up by the said convention, to the captains and
subaltern officers in the two battalions to be raised in that colony; and that the
appointment of the field officers be for the present suspended, until the Con-
gress come to a determination on that matter. * tº
John Penn, esq. one of the delegates for North-Carolina, appeared in Con-
gress, and produced his credentials, which being read, were approved, and are
as follows.
North-Carolina, HILLsborough. In CoNGRESS, 8th Sept. 1775.
“Mr. Caswell informed the Congress, that as they had done him the honor
to appoint him treasurer of the southern district of this province, and one of
the signers of the public bills of credit, his attending those duties would ren-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 153
der it entirely out of his power to attend the Continental Congress, as one
of the delegates of this province, he therefore requested this Congress would
be pleased to appoint some other gentleman in his stead. Whereupon, it is
resolved, that John Penn, esq. be, and he is hereby appointed a delegate in be-
half of this province, in conjunction with William Hooper, and Joseph Hewes,
esqrs. and that he be invested with the same power, and entitled to the like
allowance, that the said Richard Caswell would have been vested with, and
entitled to, under a former resolution of this Congress.
By order, signed,
SAMUEL JOHNSON, President.
ANDREW KNOX, Secretary.
The committee of claims reported their opinion that the following accounts
ought to be paid :
Two accounts of Peter Cooper, one for several articles furnished capt. Cres-
sop's company in Lancaster, amounting to 2 1-5 dollars, to be charged to said
company. The other for 34 pair of boots, made by him for the hussar company,
amounting to 1131-3 dollars. *
Francis Wade’s account of expenses for himself and a party of eighteen men
escorting governor Skene and Mr. Lundy to New York, anounting to 445
65-90 dollars.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the assembly or committee of safety of
Pennsylvania, to raise one battalion on the same terms as those ordered to be
raised in New Jersey, and to be officered in like manner. -
Resolved, That the men to be enlisted be furnished at the continental ex-
ense, with a hunting shirt, not exceeding in value 1 1-8 dollar, and a blanket,
if to be procured, but not to be made part of the terms of enlistment.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a commit-
tee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of the trade of the thirteen
United Colonies, and after some time spent therein, the president resumed the
chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that the committee had iſ: into consideration
the matter referred to them, but not having come to a conclusion, desired him
to move for leave to sit again.
Itesolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into their further consideration the state of the trade of the
thirteen United Colonies.
The other matters referred to this day, being postponed, the Congress ad-
journed to nine o'clock to-morrow. **
FRIDAY, October 13, 1775.
º: to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a commit-
tee of the whole to take into their further consideration the trade of the thirteen
United Colonies, and after some time spent thereon, the president resumed the
chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that the committee had taken into consideration
the matter referred to them, but not having come to a conclusion, desired him
to move for leave to sit again.
Whereupon the order was renewed.
A letter from general Washington, dated 5th of October, with sundry papers
enclosed, was read. *
The Congress, taking into consideration the report of the committee appoint-
ed to prepare a plan, &c. after some debate, *
Resolved, That a swift sailing vessel, to carry ten carriage guns, and a pro-
portionable number of swivels, with eighty men, be fitted, with all possible des-
patch, º: à. * of three months, and that the commander be instructed to
''OL. l. 20
154 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
cruize eastward, for intercepting such transports as may be laden with warlike
stores and other supplies for our enemies, and for such other purposes as the
Congress shall direct.
That a committee of three be appointed to prepare an estimate of the ex-
pense, and lay the same before the Congress, and to contract with proper per-
sons to fit out the vessel.
Resolved, That another vessel be fitted out for the same purposes, and that
the said committee report their opinion of a proper vessel, and also an esti-
mate of the expense.
The following members were chosen to compose the committee : Mr. Deane,
Mr. Langdon, and Mr. Gadsden.
Resolved, That the further consideration of the report be referred to Mon-
day next.
#. Congress, taking into consideration the memorial of sundry merchants
of New York and Philadelphia, respecting a quantity of tea on hand, which
were referred by the Congress at their last session, to be taken up at their
next :
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to take into consideration
the said memorials, and enquire into the state of facts, and make report thereon
to the Congress.
The members chosen, Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. J. Adams, Mr.
Ward, and Mr. Lee. tº
The several matters referred to this day, were postponed till to-morrow, to
which time the Congress adjourned to meet at nine o’clock.
SATURDAY, October 14, 1775.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the letter from general Wash-
ington, and the papers enclosed.
Itesolved, That a director general and chief physician of the hospital in Mas-
sachusetts-Bay, be appointed in the room of Dr. Church, who is taken into cus-
tody for holding a correspondence with the enemy. º
Resolved, That the Congress will, on Monday next, proceed to the election
of a director general and chief physician of the hospital, in the room of doctor
Church. * *
Resolved, That the further consideration of the general’s letter be postponed
till Monday next.
The delegates for Connecticut informed the Congress that they had met
some of the delegates for Pennsylvania, in order to take into consideration the
matters referred to them, but not being able to come to any agreement with
them, and as the dispute between the people of the two colonies on the waters
of the Susquehanna, had proceeded to bloodshed, and, in their apprehension,
may be attended with very dangerous consequences, unless speedily prevent-
ed, they moved that a committee be appointed out of the other colonies, to take
this matter into consideration, and report thereon to the Congress.
Resolved, That this be referred to Monday next.
Adjourned to nine o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, October 16, 1775.
Two letters from the convention of New-Jersey, dated 13th and 14th instant,
being read, *
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to take the same into
consideration, and report an answer. g
The members chosen, Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr. Dickinson, and Mr. W. Li-
vingston. g tº
Á letter from general Schuyler, dated 5th instant, with sundry paper* *
closed, being received and taken into consideration,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 155
Itesolved, That the sum of 200,000 dollars be sent to the deputy pay-master
general for the northern army. ſº
That the delegates of Pennsylvania do immediately count and send forward
the above sum under a guard.
Resolved, That the ton of powder forwarded last week to New-York, be
immediately sent to general Schuyler. g
Resolved, That a committee of five members be appointed to consider farther
ways and means of promoting the manufacture of salt-petre.
The following members chosen, Mr. Randolph, Mr. Wisner, Mr. Chase, Mr.
J. Rutledge, and Mr. Morton.
Resolved, That it be earnestly recommended to all persons, who are possess-
ed of the salt-petrelately removed from Turtle-Bay, on the island of New-York,
forthwith to send the same to the president of the convention of New York, to
be manufactured into gun-powder, for the use of the continental army.
Ordered, That Mr. Langdon, Mr. Dyer, and Mr. J. Adams, enquire what
quantity of powder has been sent to the northern army, and report by whom
Sent.
The order of the day being renewed, and the several matters referred to this
day postponed,
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, October 17, 1775.
The Congress, taking into consideration the motion made last Saturday, by
the delegates of Connecticut, g º
Resolved, That a committee of five members be appointed to take into consi-
deration the disputes between the people of Connecticut and Pennsylvania,
and report what in their opinion is proper to be done by Congress.
The members chosen are, Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr. Chase, Mr. Jefferson, Mr.
Kinsey, and Mr. Hopkins.
The committee appointed to prepare an estimate, &c. brought in their re-
port, which, after debate, was re-committed.
The committee of claims reported that there is due to Ephraim Martin, for
provisions furnished to several rifle companies, 59.3 dollars.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
A letter from governor Cooke, dated 9th instant, was read.
The Congress proceeded to the election of a director-general and chief phy-
sician of the hospital, in the room of Dr. Church, and the ballots being examined,
Dr. John Morgan, of Philadelphia, was elected.
Ordered, That the president write to the convention of New-York, and
inform them, that it is the desire of the Congress, that the sulphur in that city
be immediately removed to a place of safety.
The several matters referred to this day being postponed, and the order of
the day renewed,
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, October 18, 1775.
The committee on the memorials from sundry merchants in New-York and
Philadelphia, brought in their report, which being read, after some debate,
Resolved, That the further consideration thereof be postponed.
, The delegates from New-Hampshire laid before the Congress, a part of the
instructions delivered to them by their colony, in these words:
“We would have you immediately use your utmost endeavours to obtain
the advice and direction of the Congress, with respect to a method for our ad-
jºinistering justice, and regulating our civil police. We press you not to de-
lay this matter, as, its being done speedily, will probably prevent the greatest
confusion among us.”
156 * JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. \
-Ali-
Resolved, That the consideration of this matter be referred to Monday next.
Resolved, That a just and well authenticated account of the hostilities com-
mitted by the ministerial troops and navy in America since last March, be
collected, with proper evidence of the truth of the facts related, the number
and value of the buildings destroyed by them, also the number and value of
the vessels inward and outward bound, which have been seized by them since
that period, as near as the number and value can be ascertained, also the
stock taken by them from different parts of the continent.
That a cominittee of three be appointed for this purpose.
The members chosen are, Mr. Deane, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Wythe.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
THIURSDAY, October 19, 1775.
The committee of claims reported, that, in their opinion, the following ac-
counts ought to be paid : -
The account of the committee of Lancaster, for sundries furnished the rifle
companies, amounting to 22.13.6 dollars. -
The account of Richard Bache, Stephen Paschall, and Michael Hillegas, for
superintending the printing of the continental bills of credit, amounting to
272 dollars.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the method proposed by
the commissary-general for supplying the army with provisions, brought in
their report, which was read.
It being represented to Congress, that captain Isaac Sears, of New-York,
has, at the request of Mr. Trumbull, the commissary-general, forwarded to
the camp at Cambridge, seven thousand barrels of flour, for which Mr. Trum-
bull has not been able to pay him, for want of money in the military chest,
Resolved, That 30,000 dollars be paid to captain Isaac Sears, on account of
the above flour, he giving bond to the treasurers to account for the same with
Mr. Trumbull, and that the same be charged to the account of Mr. Trumbull,
commissary-general. -
A petition from Mr. Sears, and Mr. Randal, was laid before the Congress,
and read.
Resolved, That the same be referred to Thursday, the 2d of November next,
then to be taken into consideration.
Resolved, That captain Macpherson be requested immediately to repair to
the camp at Cambridge, and confer with general Washington, on the subject
contained in his letter to Congress.
Resolved, That the provincial convention of New-York be requested to
send to this Congress, a copy of any order or proceeding of theirs, or of the
mayor and corporation in consequence of governor Tryon's letter to the may:
or, published in the New-York papers, under the 16th instant, also an attested
cop of said letter.
he order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, October 20, 1775.
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to the general, reported a
draught, which was read and agreed to.
Resolved, That three hundred dollars be paid to captain John Macpherson,
to defray the expenses of his journey to the camp, he to be accountable.
The remainder of the day, and the day following, were spent in a committee
of the whole, on the trade of the United Colonies. On which, not being rea-
dy to report, the order of the day was renewed, and the Congress adjourned
to ten o’clock on Monday.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 457
.:-
MONDAY, October 23, 1775.
The Congress being informed that yesterday the honorable Peyton Randolph,
eSq. suddenly departed this life,
Resolved, That the Congress will attend his funeral as mourners, with a crape
round their left arm, according to the association.
That the Congress thus continue in mourning for the space of one month.
That a committee of three be appointed to superintend the funeral.
The members chosen, Mr. Middleton, Mr. Hopkins, and Mr. Chase.
That the committee wait on the reverend Mr. Duche, and request him to
prepare a proper discourse to be delivered at the funeral.
The delegates for Delaware government having been re-appointed by their
assembly, on the 21st inst. produced the credentials of their re-appointment,
which were read and approved.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow, and from thence, by adjournments, to
ten o’clock on Wednesday.
WEDNESDAY, October 25, 1775.
Sundry letters from general Washington, governor Trumbull, and the con-
vention of New-York, being received, were read.
The committee appointed to prepare an answer to the letters from the con-
vention of New-Jersey, dated 13th and 14th instant, brought in a draught, and
the same being read and debated, an answer was agreed to, and ordered to be
forwarded.
The committee of claims reported that there is due,
To John Biddle, commissary of the rifle battalion, 4139.7 dollars.
James Stewart, for provisions to riflemen, 15.7 ditto.
Jacob Hoyler, for do. to capt. Ross’s company, 18.3 ditto.
Ordered, That the same be paid. *
The committee of safety, of Pennsylvania, informed the Congress, that they
have taken into custody a captain Campbell, and a lieutenant Symes, together
with a number of soldiers, who came from Boston in the Rebecca and Frances
transport, which was cast away on Brigantine beach, and that, from general
Gage’s instructions to said Campbell and Symes (herewith transmitted to Con-
gress,) it appeared they were sent to raise recruits for general Gage’s army,
and that from sundry examinations taken and submitted to Congress, it appear-
ed said Campbell has heretofore been employed in the like service, and has
endeavoured to inveigle recruits by the offer of grants of forfeited lands.
The instructions being read,
Ordered, That they be published.
The examinations also being read,
Ordered, That a copy of them be forwarded to the convention of New-York,
with a recommendation to them to seize a Mr. Grant, who, it is said, is employed
in raising recruits for general Gage’s army in that colony.
Resolved, That Mr. Hewes be added to the committee of claims.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, October 26, 1775.
Ordered, That the resolution of the 15th of July last for encouraging the
importation of arms and ammunition, and the resolution of the 18th inst. for
collecting an account of the hostilities committed by the ministerial troops and
navy, be immediately published. \
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to take into consideration
the letter from the convention of New-York, dated 20th instant, and report
& IlsallSWer,
i 58 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
The members chosen, Mr. Deane, Mr. S. Adams, and Mr. Duane.
Information being given to Congress, that there has been lately discovered,
in the colony of Virginia, a mineral containing a large quantity of salt-petre,
Ordered, That the delegates of Virginia send an express to enquire into the
truth of the fact, and to bring a sample of the mineral. A.
Resolved, That a committee of five members be appointed to take into con-
sideration the instructions given to the delegates of New Hampshire, and report
their opinion thereon.
The members chosen, Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Ward, Mr. Lee,
and Mr. Sherman. *
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into farther consideration the state of the trade of
the United Colonies, and after some time spent thereon, the president resumed
the chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that the committee had taken into consi-
deration the matter referred to them, and have come to a resolution which they
desired him to report, and further to move for leave to sit again.
The report of the committee being read, was agreed to as follows:
Resolved, That it be recommended to the several provincial assemblies, con-
ventions, or councils of safety, of the United Colonies, to export to the foreign
West-indies, on account and risk of their respective colonies, as much provi-
sions or other produce, except horned cattle, . hogs, and poultry, as they
. deem necessary for the inportation of arms, ammunition, sulphur, and
Salt-petre.
bººi, That a copy of the above be transmitted by the delegates to their
respective assemblies, conventions, or committees of safety.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into their further consideration the state of the
trade of the United Colonies.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, October 27, 1775.
The committee appointed to prepare an answer to the convention of New-
York, brought in a report, which was read.
The remainder of the day being spent in a committee of the whole, and the
order of the day renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, October 28, 1775.
The committee of safety of Pennsylvania having transmitted to Congress
some further examinations of the soldiers who came in the Rebecca and Fran-
ces transport, desired the direction of Congress with regard to the officers and
soldiers. Whereupon,
Resolved, That capt. Campbell and lieut. Symes, and the men who came with
them in the Rebecca and Frances transport, be confined in such gaols in this
colony, as the committee of safety of said colony think proper, and that said
-captain Campbell and lieut. Symes be allowed for their subsistence 1 1-3 dol-
lars each a week, and the men one dollar a week each, to be paid out of the
continental treasury. }
The Congress taking into consideration the report of the committee on the
New York letters,
Resolved, That a company of matrosses, to consist of a captain, a captain-
lieutenant, a first and second lieutenant, a lieutenant fire-worker, four ser-
jeants, four corporals, eight bombardiers, sixty-eight matrosses, one drummer,
and one fifer, be immediately raised in New York, for the defence of Hud-
son’s river, and to occupy the fortifications now erecting in the highlands, and
that it be recommended to the convention of said colony immediately to raise
said company, and to appoint the proper officers.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 159
The committee of claims reported, that there is due on account of necessaries
ſurnished to the hussar company, and for services therein, the following sums,
VIZ, *
To James & Drinker, per account, 192.8 dollars.
Thomas Clifford and Sons, 64.4 dollars.
usher & Henry, 29.2 dollars.
George Fromberger, 127.3 dollars.
William Ogden, 73.3 dollars.
William Kerlin, 64 dollars.
Samuel Garrigues, 11 dollars.
Andrew Fegener, 266.6 dollars.
Lewis Kuhn, 425.3 dollars.
Lewis Prahl, to be paid by his order to Andrew Bonner, 226.6 dollars.
Sundries for smaller sums to be paid by T. Matlack, 550.6 dollars.
That there is due to Rachael Stille, for expenses of a guard at Trenton over
the powder, 10.5 dollars.
To William Holmes, for goods furnished the rifle company raised in Cum-
berland, 85.6 dollars.
To º Matlack, to pay for wood for the use of the Congress, 22 dollars.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
Resolved, That five of the committee of claims, of which the chairman is to
be one, be empowered to act.
Resolved, That the inspectors of the press deliver the proof-sheets and
checks of the continental bills, to the continental treasurers, and that they de-
liver one of each to the delegates of every colony, to be deposited with the
provincial treasurer appointed in such colony, and retain the rest in their hands.
Mr. Randolph, one of the salt-petre committee, being dead, and Mr. Morton,
another, desiring to be excused, on account of his attendance in the house of
assembly,
Resolved, That three new members be chosen for that committee.
The members chosen, Mr. Paine, Mr. Humphreys, and Mr. Wythe.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, October 30, 1775.
The committee appointed to prepare an estimate, and to fit out the vessels
brought in their report, which being taken into consideration, 3.
Resolved, That the second vessel ordered to be fitted out on the 13th instant
be of such a size as to carry fourteen guns, and a proportionate number of swi.
vels and men.
Resolved, That two more vessels be fitted out with all expedition; the one to
carry not exceeding twenty guns, and the other not exceeding thirty-six guns,
with a proportionable number of swivels and men, to be employed in such man.
ner, for the protection and defence of the United Colonies, as the Congress
shall direct.
Resolved, That four members be chosen and added to the former committee
of three, and that these seven be a committee to carry into execution with all
possible expedition, as well the resolutions of Congress passed the 13th
instant, as those passed this day, for fitting out armed vessels. l
Al he members chosen, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Hewes, Mr. R. H. Lee, and Mr. J.
all (1S. w t
The Convention of New-Jersey, having recommended sundry gentlemen for
field officers to command the two battalions raising in that colony,
Resolved, That the same be referred till to-morrow.
A letter from W. Livingston, esq. dated the 18th instant, was read, and re-
ferred till to-morrow.
160 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, October 31, 1775. º
Sundry letters from general Schuyler of the 6th, 13th, 14th, and 19th instant,
with sundry papers enclosed, were read.
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
further consideration the trade of these colonies, and after some time spent
therein, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that the
committee, having taken into consideration the matter to them referred, have
come to certain resolutions, which they desired him to report, but that not
having come to a conclusion, they desired him to move for leave to sit again.
The report of the committee being read,
Resolved, That the same be taken into consideration to-morrow morning.
Resolved, That the appointment of field officers for the battalions raising in
New-Jersey, be postponed to Friday next.
A member from Pennsylvania laid before the Congress a resolve of the
honorable assembly of that colony, in these words:
“IN AssEMBLY, October 28, 1775.
“The house taking into their further consideration the resolve of Congress,
for raising a battalion in this province, for general service, find it necessary
that moneys should be advanced by the several captains for that purpose.
“Resolved, Therefore, that the Congress be requested to ... a sufficient
sum of money to be put into the j. of the committee of safety of this pro-
vince, to be immediately applied in raising said battalion.
“Extract from the minutes,
“CHARLES MOORE, Clerk of Assembly.”
Resolved, That the consideration thereof be referred to Friday next.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, JW ovember 1, 1775.
A leter from general Washington by express, with an account of the burning
of Falmouth, was read.
Ordered, That a copy be forwarded by the delegates to their respective as-
semblies, conventions, and committees of safety. * $
A letter from the committee of conference, with the minutes of their pro-
ceedings, was read.
Ordered, To lie on the table for the perusal of the members.
The Congress, taking into consideration the report from the committee of
the whole, f
Resolved, That no produce of the United Colonies be exported, (except from
colony to colony, under the direction of the committees of inspection and obser-
vation, and except from one part to another of the same colony) before the first
day of March next, without the permission or order of this Congress: provided,
that nothing herein contained shall be construed to vacate the resolutions of
Congress for the importation of arms, ammunition, &c.
Resolved, That New-York, the three lower counties on Delaware, North-
Carolina, and Georgia, ought not to avail themselves of the benefit allowed to
them by the late restraining act, and therefore, that no person should apply at
the custom-houses in those colonies for clearances or other documents, which
other colonies are deprived of by said restraining act, for securing the navigation
of vessels with cargoes from their ports; and that the president transmit to the
assemblies or conventions of those colonies, copies of this resolution, with the
, thanks of this Congress, to those colonies respectively, for not having hitherto
taken any advantage of the exemptions in the said act of parliament.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 161
Resolved, That no rice be exported under the exception contained in the 4th
article of the association, from any of the United Colonies to Great-Britain,
Ireland, or the islands of Jersey, Guernsey, Sark, Aldernay, or Man, or any
other European island, or settlement within the British dominions.
Resolved, That no live stock, (necessary sea-stores, at the discretion of the
committees, and horses excepted) be exported from these colonies, or water
borne, except in rivers, bays, and sounds.
The further consideration of the report being postponed, and the order of
the day renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, JW ovember 2, 1775.
The committee of claims reported that there is due,
To Daniel Smith, for expenses of guards attending governor Skene, major
French and others, and the expenses of Mr. Lundy and major French, 133.3
dollars.
d º John Davies, for provisions and carriage to three rifle companies, 1320.9
Ol 13.1°S.
To Simons and Henry, for sundries to rifle companies, 2313.6 dollars; of
this 26.7 dollars to be charged to the continent, the remainder to several rifle
companies, the money to be paid to Hugh and George Roberts, per order of
said Simons and Henry.
To John Montgomery, 56 dollars, of which 2.4 to be charged to the continent.
To John Brewster, Zachariah Dubois, and Jon. Brooks, 61.1 dollars, to be
paid per order to Henry Wisner, esq.
To William Sickle, according to the prayer of his petition, 40 dollars.
To captain Dowdle, for drums, &c. for his company, 61.1 dollars.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to carry into execution the resolves
of Congress, for fitting out four armed vessels, be authorized to draw on the
continental treasurers, from time to time, for as much cash as shall be necessary
for the above purpose, not exceeding the sum of one hundred thousand dollars,
and that the said committee have power to agree with such officers and seamen,
as are proper to man and command said vessels, and that the encouragement
to such officers and seamen be one half of all ships of war made prize of by
them, and one-third of all transport vessels, exclusive of wages.
The inhabitants of a district in Nova-Scotia, having chosen a committee of
Safety, and having, by their petition, applied to the Congress to be admitted
into the association of the United Colonies, for the preservation of their rights
and liberties, • \
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to take this matter into
consideration, and report what steps, in their opinion, it may be proper to take,
º consequence of this application, for the preservation of the É.i. of
Ill (21°1Cà.
The members chosen, Mr. Deane, Mr. Jay, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Langdon, and
Mr. J. Adams.
*esolved, That the delegates have liberty to transmit to their respective
committees of safety, a copy of the resolution passed yesterday.
A memorial from the committee of safety, of Pennsylvania, respecting lieu-
tenant Symes, was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
A lette, from Mr. Bedford, deputy muster-master general, with sundry
muster rolls, being received, were read.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the instruction to the
delegates ºf New-Hampshire, brought in their report, which was read
Ordered, To lie on . table. § t p J
Vol. I. 21
162 JOURNALS of congress, 1775.
A petition from John Raigs, of Bermudas, was read.
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The Congress, taking into consideration the letters from general Schuyler,
general Montgomery, and W. Livingston, esq.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to repair to the north-
ward, to confer with general Schuyler, and to pursue such instructions as may
be given them in charge by the Congress.
The members chosen, Mr. Langdon, Mr. Paine, and Mr. Dyer.
That a committee of five be appointed to prepare instructions for the fore-
going committee. \
The members chosen, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Jay, Mr. Lee, Mr. Deane, and Mr.
J. Adams.
Resolved, That 3000 felt hats, 3000 worsted caps, 3000 pair of buckskin
breeches, 3000 pair of shoes, 3000 pair of yarn stockings, and 3000 waistcoats,
suitable for the season, be immediately purchased and sent to the army, under
the command of general Schuyler, to be sold to the soldiers at prime cost, in-
cluding charges of carriage, and five per cent. to the deputy quarter-master
general, by whom the said goods are to be sold.
Resolved, That these goods be sold to those soldiers only, who will re-inlist
in the continental army, and to the new recruits.
Resolved, That as much duffels or kersey, as will make three hundred watch
coats, be purchased and sent to general Schuyler, with needles and thread, to
be made into watch coats, and that these be charged to the continent, and kept
for the use of the out centries.
º, That a committee of three be appointed to purchase the foregoing
articles.
The members chosen, Mr. Alsop, Mr. Lewis, and Mr. Sherman.
Ordered, That the committee apply to the committee of inspection of the
city º liberties of Philadelphia, for their assistance in purchasing the above
articles.
The committee appointed to repair to the camp at Cambridge, being returned,
made a farther report of their proceedings: Whereupon, tº
Resolved, That Saturday next be assigned for taking into consideration the
report of the committee, and the state of the army at Cambrid ge.
Resolved, That the petition of Mr. Sears, and Mr. Randall, which was re-
ferred to this day, be postponed to Monday next.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JNovember 3, 1775.
The Congress, taking into consideration the report of the committee on the
New-Hampshire instructions,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the provincial convention of New-
Hampshire, to call a full and free representation of the people, and that the
representatives, if they think it necessary, establish such a form of government,
as, in their judgment, will best produce the happiness of the people, and most
effectually secure peace and good order in the province, during the continu-
ance of the present dispute between Great-Britain and the colonies:
The Congress then, taking into consideration the state of South-Carolina,
and sundry papers relative thereto, being read and considered, . tºp
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to take the same into consi-
deration, and report what, in their opinion, is necessary to be done.
The members chosen, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Bullock, Mr. Hooper, Mr. Chase,
and Mr. S. Adams. º * * * * * tº
The committee of claims reported, that there is due to William Holiday,
for goods and provisions furnished by several persons to the rifle companies of
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 163
Virginia, the sum of 59.246 12 3 Virginia currency, 122 dollars; of which
there ought to be charged to capt. Morgan, the sum of £ 169 1 73, and to
captain Stevenson, the sum of £13 16 11, and the remainder to the conti-
ment. *
To Andrew Bonner, for goods furnished to capt. Cressop's company, by
David Mitchell, the sum of 59.67 4 6, and for provisions to capt. Stevenson’s
company, the sum of £ 3,26, the last mentioned sum to be charged to the
continent, both amounting to 187.6 dollars.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
The Congress, taking into consideration the recommendation from the con-
vention of New-Jersey,
Resolved, That the same be referred to Monday next.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, JVovember 4, 1775.
A letter from gen. Schuyler, with sundry enclosed papers, containing an
account of the taking of fort Chambly, being received and read,
Resolved, That the same be referred to the committee appointed to prepare
instructions.
Ordered, That gen. Montgomery’s letter, and the articles of capitulation, be
published by the secretary.
The committee appointed on the differences between the people of Pennsyl-
vania and Connecticut, brought in their report, which being read,
Resolved, 'That the same be referred to º next.
On motion made, the Congress came to the following resolution:
The Côngress, considering that the most perfect union between all the colo-
nies, is essentially necessary for the preservation of the just rights of North-
America, and being apprehensive that there is great danger of hostilities being
commenced, at or near Wyoming, between the inhabitants of the colony of
Pennsylvania, and those of Connecticut,
Resolved, That the assemblies of the said colonies be requested to take the
most speedy and effectual steps to prevent such hostilities.
Ordered, That Mr. M'Kean and Mr. Deane, wait upon the honourable house
of assembly, of Pennsylvania, now sitting, with a copy of the above resolution.
Ordered, That a copy of the said resolution be transmitted by express to the
magistrates, and people of Pennsylvania and Connecticut, on the waters of
Susquehanna.
The Congress, taking into consideration the report of the committee of
conference,
Resolved, That the new army, intended to lie before Boston, consist of 20,372
men, officers included.
Resolved, That the pay of the officers and privates (except that of the cap-
tains, lieutenants, and ensigns in the marching regiments) be the same as in
the present army. *
Resolved, That the pay of a captain, in the marching regiment, be 262-3
dollars per calendar month. &
That the pay of a lieutenant in ditto, be 18 dollars per ditto,
The pay of an ensign in ditto, be 13 1-3 dollars per ditto.
Resolved, That each regiment consist of 728 men, officers included ; that it
be divided into eight companies, each company to consist of one captain, two
lieutenants, one ensign, four serjeants, four corporals, two drums or fifes, and
76 privates.
. Resolved, That a ration consist of the following kind and quantity of provi-
S100S 3
1 lb. beef, or 3-4 lb. pork, or 1 lb. salt fish, per day. * sº
1 lb. bread or flour per day.
164 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
<!.
2-ºf-
3 pints of pease or beans per week, or vegetables equivalent, at one dollar
per bushel for pease or beans.
1 pint of milk per man, or at the rate of 1-72 of a dollar.
1 half pint of rice, or 1 pint of Indian meal per man per week.
1 quart of spruce beer or cyder per man per day, or nine gallons of molasses
per company of 100 men per week.
3 lb. candles to 100 men per week for guards.
24 lb. soft, or 8 lb hard soap for 100 men per week.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the several assemblies or conventions
of the colonies respectively, to set and keep their gunsmiths at work, to manu-
facture good firelocks, with bayonets; each firelock to be made with a good
bridle lock, three-quarters of an inch bore, and of good substance at the breech,
the barrel to be three feet 8 inches in length, the bayonet to be 18 inches in the
blade, with a steel ramrod, the upper loop thereof to be trumpet-mouthed;
that the price to be given be fixed by the assembly or convention, or committee
of safety of each colony, and that until a sufficient quantity of good arms can
be manufactured, they import as many as are wanted, by all the means in their
OW el’.
p Resolved, That the good arms of such soldiers as leave the service, be re-
tained for the use of the new army, on a valuation made of them.
Resolved, That clothing be provided for the new army by the continent, and
paid for, by stoppages out of the soldiers' wages, at 12-3 dollars per month;
that as much as possible of the cloth for this purpose be dyed brown, and the
distinctions of the regiments made in the facings.
That a man who brings a good new blanket into the camp, be allowed two
dollars therefor, and take it away at the end of the campaign.
Resolved, That in order to supply the army with provisions, the commissary-
general be directed to cause cattle and hogs to be driven, at proper seasons, to
the camp, there to be slaughtered and cured, and as to the articles of bread and
flour, that he proceed in the way that he has done for some time past.
Resolved, That such officers as have served in the present army to approba-
tion, and are willing to stay, be preferred, and if there are more of these than
are necessary for the new army, that the general distinguish such as he deems
best qualified. *
Resolved, That it be recommended to the several legislatures of New-
England to empower the general to impress carriages, vessels, horses, and other
things necessary, at a reasonable rate, for the transportation or march of the
army, or any part of it, or on any other emergency, and that this power may
be deputed in writing, under the hand of the general to the quarter-master
#. or to any inferior officer, who are to be accountable for any abuse
thereof. &
Resolved, That the general be directed to propose to the officers now serving
in the present army, that they signify in writing, as soon as possible, which of
them will continue to serve and defend their country, and which of them will
retire, and that such officers as propose to continue in the service, and are ap-
proved by the general, proceed to inlist their men into the continental service,
upon the same pay and allowance of provisions as is now given, their service to
continue to the last day of December, 1776, subject to be discharged at any
time by the continental Congress.
Resolved, That if, upon trial, the number of men before resolved on, cannot
be raised out of the present army, then the officers appointed for the new army,
recruit their several regiments and companies to their full complement; and,
in case the necessity of the service requires it, that the general be empowered
to call forth the minute-men or militia of Massachusetts-Bay, or the neighbor"
ing colonies, according to the nature and exigence of the service. ‘. . .
Fesolved, That it be recommended to the several legislatures, assemblies,
or conventions of the colonies, to enact a law or pass an ordinance, inflicting
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 165
- –sº
r—
the following punishments upon such as harbor deserters, knowing them to be
such, viz: a fine upon all such offenders, not less than thirty, nor more than
fifty dollars; and in case of inability to pay the fine, to be punished with whip-
ping, not exceeding thirty-nine lashes for each offence: also, that they em-
power the commander in chief, or the officer commanding a detachment or any
out-post, to administer an oath, and swear any person or persons to the truth
of any information or intelligence, or any other matter relative to the public
Service.
Resolved, That any person who shall apprehend a deserter, and bring him
to the regiment to which he belongs, upon certificate thereof by the colonel or
commanding officer of such regiment, shall be entitled to receive five dollars
and all reasonable expenses from the pay-master general, or deputy pay-master,
which is to be deducted from the pay of such soldier.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be referred to Mon-
dav next.
#. committee appointed to take into consideration the state of South-
Carolina, brought in their report, which being read,
Resolved, That for the defence of South-Carolina, there be kept up in that
colony, at the continental expense, three battalions of foot, each battalion to
consist of the same number of men and officers, and be upon the same pay,
and under the same regulations, as the continental army.
Resolved, That for the defence of the colony of Georgia, there be one bat-
talion kept up there at the continental expense, to be composed as the battalions
of South-Carolina.
Resolved, That the said troops be inlisted to the 31st day of December,
1776, subject, however, to be discharged sooner if the continental Congress
shall think proper.
º Resolved, That the president sign blank commissions, and that the conven-
tions, or, in their recess, the councils of safety for South-Carolina and Georgia
respectively, fill them up with the names of such officers as they may think
proper, and return a list thereof to the Congress.
Resolved, That in case of a vacancy occasioned by the death or removal of
a colonel or inferior officer, the said conventions or, in their recess, the said
councils of safety, º: another person to fill up such vacancy, until a com-
mission shall issue from the Congress, and that they return to the Congress a
list of the names of the person or persons so appointed.
º Resolved, That the officers on the continental establishment shall, when act-
ing in conjunction with officers of equal rank on the provincial establishment,
take command of the latter, and also of the militia; and the officers of the
troops on the provincial establishment shall, when acting in conjunction with
the officers of the militia, take command and precedence of the latter of equal
rank, notwithstanding prior dates of commissions.
Resolved, That if the convention, or, in their recess, the council of safety of
South-Carolina, shall think it expedient for the security of that colony, to
seize or destroy, and shall seize or destroy, any ship or vessel of war, this
Congress will approve of such proceeding.
Resolved, That the town of Charleston ought to be defended against any
attempts that may be made to take possession thereof by the enemies of
America, and that the convention or council of safety of the colony of South-
‘’arºlina, ought to pursue such measures, as to them shall seem most efficacious
for that purpose, and that they proceed immediate ly to erect such fortifications
and batteries in or near Charleston, as will best conduce to promote its se-
curity, the expense to be paid by the said colony.
Fesolved. That if the convention of South Carolina shall find it necessary to
establish a form of government in that colony, it be recommended to that con-
Vention to call a full and free representation of the people, and that the said
i 66. JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775
A lº
º -L-
representatives, if they think it necessary, shall establish such a form of govern-
ment as in their judgment will produce the happiness of the people, and most
effectually secure peace and good order in the colony, during the continuance
of the present dispute between Great Britain and the colonies.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, JNovember 6, 1775.
The assembly of Pennsylvania having appointed new delegates, the said de-
legates produced their credentials, which were read and approved, and are as
follows:
“ IN AssFMBLy, JVovember 3, 1775.
“Resolved, That the honorable John Morton, speaker, John Dickinson, Robert
Morris, Benjamin Franklin, Charles Humphreys, Edward Biddle, Thomas
Willing, Andrew Allen, and James Wilson, be, and they are hereby, appoint-
ed to serve as representatives of this province in the Continental Congress.
“Extract from the minutes
“CHARLES MOORE, Clerk of Assembly.”
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to take into consideration
the sundry letters lately received from the convention of New-York, and the
state of that colony, and report what in their opinion is necessary to be done.
The members chosen, Mr. R. Livingston, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Harrison, Mr.
Allen, and Mr. Ward.
The Congress, resuming the consideration of the report of the committee re-
turned from the camp, and having agreed to sundry articles therein contained,
and come to sundry resolutions,
Ordered, That the secretary digest in order the resolutions of the Congress,
as far as they have gone in the report, and lay the same before Congress to-
In Orr OW. A-
Resolved, That the further consideration of the report be referred till to-
IYAOI"I'OW.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to examine what money, remains
in the continental treasury unapplied, and to form an estimate of the public
debts already incurred, and which will become due on the first day of June
next.
That the committee consist of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Nelson, Mr. Deane, and Mr. Cushing.
The committee of claims reported that there is due,
To John Forbes, for goods and necessaries delivered to several rifle compa-
nies, the sum of £35 11 10, equal to 94.9 dollars, of which sum capt, Cluggage
ought to be charged with £6.2 10, and captain Chambers with £410, the re-
mainder to the continent; that this is to be paid per order to Blair M'Clena-
chan.
To Jane Allen, the sum of £47 0 7, and to Wendal Lands the sum of £2 00,
both sums being 130.7 dollars, and that the same be paid, per order, to Henry
Wisner, esq. and be charged to the continent. * º
To Judah Harbow, £7 124, and to capt. Jackson £1346, for necessaries
furnished several rifle companies, and that both sums be paid, per order, to
Henry Wisner, esq. and charged to the continent, being 52.1 dollars.
To Andrew Graft, for wagonage, the sum of £27 26, and to Christopher
Crawford, for blankets, the sum of £6 15, both which sums to be paid, per or-
der, to George Graff, and charged to the continent, being 90.3 dollars.
To Richard Backhouse, for wagonage, the sum of £51, being 136 dollars.
To Miles and Wister, by sundry certificates, £26 64, equal to 70.1 dollars,
of which £13 10 be charged to capt. Rice's company, and 3s. to capt. Cressop's
company; the remainder to the continent,
Journals of congress, irrs. 167.
To Frederick Lienbach, by sundry certificates, £58, 11 5, equal to 156.2
dollars, of which £4 13 6 to be charged to capt. Price, £3 15 to capt. Steven-
son, £6 15 1 to commissary Biddle, until it appears to be otherwise accounted
for, and the remainder to the continent, to be paid, per order, to George Schlos-
SČſ, *
To John Murrow, for goods delivered to capt. Stevenson, 5971 1810, to be
; per order, to George Davis, and charged to said Stevenson, being 191.8
Olla.I.S. *
To Robert Erwin, for wagonage, sº 1699 3, equal to 451.9 dollars.
To Timothy Matlack, money by him paid to Joseph Brown, an express to
Cambridge, sº 1741, equal to 45.9 dollars.
To Jasper Stimes and Abraham Storm, for provisions and carriage furnished
by them to the rifle companies £1492, New York currency, 36.1 dollars, to
be paid, per order, to John Alsop, esq.
Ordered, That the above sums be paid.
Application being made in behalf of the colony of North Carolina, for the
sum of 3,750 dollars, in part of the expense incurred for raising and equipping
a thousand men for the support of the association and the safety of that colony,
agreeable to the resolve of the Congress,
Ordered, That the same be paid to William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, and
John Penn, esqs. and charged to the colony of North Carolina, by which the
same is to be accounted for.
The several matters to this day referred being postponed, and the order of
the day renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, JNovember 7, 1775.
A letter from general Washington, No. 11, was read.
The secretary having digested in order the resolutions passed by Congress,
produced the same, which being read, were approved as follows:
Resolved, That Dr. Church be close confined in some secure gaol in the
colony of Connecticut, without the use of pen, ink, and paper, and that no
person be allowed to converse with him, except in the presence and hearing of
a magistrate of the town, or the sheriff of the county where he shall be confined,
and in the English language, until father orders from this or a future Con-
gress.
Resolved, That the following additions and alterations or amendments be
made in the rules and regulations of the continental army.
(For these rules and regulations, see page 97, &c. in the notes. }
Resolved, That three new members be added to the committee for importing
arms, ammunition, &c. and that any five of them be a quorum.
The members chosen, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Bartlett, and Mr. Bullock.
The Congress taking into consideration the recommendation for field officers
of the New-Jersey battalions,
Resolved, That the Congress will proceed by ballot to the election of the said
field officers.
The ballots being taken and examined,
Jºrd. Sterling was elected colonel of the first of the two battalions.
William Wind, esq. lieutenant-colonel of ditto.
William De Hart, esq. major of ditto. . 4.
William Maxwell, esq. colonel of the second of ditto,
Israel Shrieve, esq. lieutenant-colonel of ditto.
David Rhea, esq. major of ditto.
Mr. Dickinson delivered a verbal message from the assembly of Pennsyl-
Yanº respecting the resolve sent to them by Mr. M'Kean, and Mr. Deane,
desiring to know on what evidence the Congress ground the apprehension
168 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
-**-e
therein expressed, of hostilities commencing, at or near Wyoming, between
the inhabitants of the colony of Pennsylvania and those of 'Connecticut.
Ordered, That the same be referred till to-morrow.
The committee appointed to take into considºation the letters from the
convention of New-York, and the state of thätº colony, brought in their
report : sº
ºrd, That the same be referred till to-mor.
The order of the day being renewed, Nº.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, JW ovember 8, 1775.
On motion, Resolved, That the secret committee* appointed to contract for
the importation of arms, ammunition, &c. be empowerd to export to the foreign
West-Indies, on account and risque of the continent, as much provision, or
any other produce, (except horned cattle, sheep, hogs, and poultry) as they
. deem necessary for the importation of arms, ammunition, sulphur, and
Salt-Detre.
hºu, That a committee of three be appointed to confer with Mr.
Kirkland.
The members chosen, Mr. Cushing, Mr. Wythe, and Mr. Ward.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Alexander Klinger, for provisions furnished to captain Hendrick’s com-
pany, sº 9 10, and to Resine Mourer, for ferriage 9s 2, the whole to be paid,
per order, to Henry Christ, being 26.5 dollars.
To George Kungle, for provisions furnished to captain Ross's company,
284 16 10, = 75 dollars.
To Henry Valentine, for transcribing writings for the Congress, £3
18 = 10.4 dollars.
To Samuel Bear, for provisions furnished to several companies, #327 15
7, to be paid, per order, to Thomas Compton, a 74 dollars.
To sundries, per certificates and accounts forwarded by Lewis Ogden, for
necessaries furnished captain Ross's company, and for a guard over a powder
wagon, £ 42 0 2, New-York currency, to be paid, per order, to George
Kennedy, being 105 dollars.
To Henry Dearing, for necessaries furnished to captain Ross's company,
406 17, to be paid, per order, to John Biddle, junior, being 18.3 dollars.
To John Jones, for ferriage and provisions, for captain Ross's company,
482, - 5.3 dollars.
Mathias Slough, per certificates, for provisions furnished several rifle com-
panies, sº 22 32,-59.1 dollars.
To sundries, per certificates, for provisions furnished captain Ross's come
pany, ag 23 15 5, New-York currency, to be paid, per order, to
being 59.4 dollars.
*IN congress, September, 18, 1775.
Resolved, That a secret committee be appointed to contract for the importation and delive-
ry of any quanity of gun-powder, not exceeding five hundred tons. º
That in case such a quantity of gun-powder cannot be procurred, to contract for the in-
portation of so much salt-petre, with a proportionable quantity of sulphur, as, with the
powder procured, will make five hundred tons. *.
that the said committee be empowered to contract for the importation of forty brass field
pieces, six pounders, for 10,000 stand of arms, and 20,000 good plain double bridle musket
locks. g
That the said committee be empowered to draw on the treasurers to answer the said Con-
tracts. w
That the said committee consist!of nine members, any five of whom to be a q99*.
the members chosen, Mr. Willing, Mr. Franklin, Mr. Livingston, Mr. Alsop, Mr. HDeane,
Mr, Dickinson, Mr. Langdon, Mr. M'Kean and Mr. Ward.


JoURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 169
–º-
Ordered, That the above be paid.
The Congress taking into consideration the report of the committee on the
New-York ſetter, &c.
Resolved, That a commander with the rank of a colonel, be appointed to
take the command of the fortifications or fortresses on Hudson’s river, in the
highlands.
Itesolved, That it be recommended to the convention of New-York, to em-
power the said commander to call together and command two hundred men of
the militia of Duchess, Orange, and Ulster counties, and one company of ar-
tillery from the city of New-York, who shall be stationed in the highlands
until relieved by the company of artillery, directed by this Congress to be
raised in the city of New-York, and such other continental troops as may
hereafter be directed to take possession of the same.
Resolved, That the minute men or militia, while on service, be maintained
and paid at the same rate, as the rest of the continental forces. *
Resolved, That a number of the militia of the counties of Duchess, º:
and Ulster, be formed into independent companies, under the direction of the
commander of the said fortresses, and in case of alarm, be directed to repair
to the several stations in the highlands, which, in order to prevent confusion,
should be immediately assigned them. &
Resolved, That the troops, which shall at any time hereafter be directed to
garrison the fortresses in the highlands, be put under the direction of the com-
mander of the fortresses, except when headed by a general officer.
Resolved, That the deputy commissary-general be directed to provide suffi-
. provision for one thousand men for one month, and keep that quantity in
Stock.
Itesolved, That the powder sent from this place to general Schuyler, be re-
manded, if it can be any way spared, and left at the fortresses in the highlands.
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, be requested to
furnish the colony of New-York with 500 lbs. of powder, and forward the same
immediately to Dobb's ferry; that the convention of New-York give order to
i. it there, and send it as soon as possible to the fortresses in the high-
ands.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention of New-York, if they
have not already sent forward a sufficient number of cannon for the defence of
the fortresses erecting in the highlands, that they immediately send forward to
those fortresses so many of the cannon at King’s bridge of the best quality and
largest bore, as they may think necessary for that purpose.
Resolved, That the bills of sale, for the vessels ordered to be purchased, be
made to the continental treasurers, or those who shall succeed them in that
office, in trust nevertheless for the use of the continent, or their representatives,
in Congress met.
Resolved, That the appointment of a commander of the fortresses on Hud-
Son’s river be deferred till to-morrow.
Mr. Dyer having, on account of indisposition, desired to be excused from
going to the northward, the Congress proceeded to the election of another in
his stead, and Mr. R. R. Livingston was chosen.
The committee appointed to prepare a draught of instructions, reported the
same, which being read, and debated by paragraphs, were agreed to as follows:
Instructions to R. R. Livingston, Robert Treat Paine, and J. Langdon, esquires.
“GENTLEMEN,
“The Congress expect that you repair, with as much despatch, as the ne-
cessary preparations for your journey will admit, to Ticonderoga, in order to
consult with general Schuyler what number of forces will be necessary in Ca-
nada, º * best and most efficacious method for procuring or continuing
OI, . Q 22
170 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775,
such forces in the northern department during the ensuing winter, of engaging
the inhabitants of the colony of Canada to accede to the association of the
United Colonies, and of protecting them for the future against their and our
€110. In 16S.
“If, upon such a conference, it shall be judged necessary, you are authorized
to direct Mr. Livingston, the deputy commissary-general, to furnish the neces-
sary provisions for an army of three thousand men for six months.
“You are also authorized to offer two months’ pay as a bounty to such
officers and soldiers as shall re-inlist, to be paid upon their taking the fortress
at St. John’s and Montreal, and you are to make use of every argument, to in-
duce them to re-inlist, or at least to stay until they can be relieved, and to
i. them, that the Congress have taken care to supply them with proper
clothing.
“You are to direct the fortresses at Ticonderoga and Crown-Point, to be
put into such a posture of defence, as the state of our affairs may require.
“You are to advise the general to purchase of such officers and soldiers,
whd have arms and are sick, their arms for the use of those who have none, or
bad ones and are well.
“Ammunition it is hoped since the late capture will not be wanting, if it
should, Congress will send the first that shall arrive.
“If there should be occasion of reinforcements, you are empowered, in con-
cert with general Schuyler, to raise any number that can be procured in Canada,
New-York, or any of the New-England governments, in order to possess thent-
..selves of Montreal and Quebec.
“The Congress desire you to exert your utmost endeavours to induce the
Canadians to accede to a union with these colonies, and that they form from
their several parishes, a provincial convention, and send delegates to this Con-
gress. And as, in the present unsettled state of that country, a regular elec-
tion can hardly be expected, the Congress will acquiesce in the choice of such
parishes and districts, as are willing to join us.
“You may, and are hereby empowered to assure them, that we shall hold
their rights as dear as our own, and on their union with us, exert our utmost
endeavours to obtain for them, and their posterity, the blessings of a free gov-
ernment, and that security to their persons and property, which is derived from
the British constitution.
“And you may, and are hereby empowered further to declare, that we hold
sacred the rights of conscience, and shall never molest them in the free enjoy-
ment of their religion.
“In case general Schuyler has not yet raised the regiment recommended
to him to be raised in Canada, or in case he cannot proceed to Canada, you are
to use all the means in your power to perfect the raising of a regiment of Cana-
dians, to join the continental forces, and you are, for that purpose, to take
with you blank commissions, which, taking the advice of the general officers
in that department, you are to fill up with the names of such persons as have
the most merit and best qualifications for the service.
“Congress direct you to acquaint general Schuyler, that they approve of his
appointment of . Dimon, to be a brigade major, and have ordered him a
commission accordingly.
“The Congress moreover are desirous that you should take an accurate view
of the state of our fortifications upon Hudson’s river, and make a report of it
as soon as it can conveniently be done.
“If the circumstances of the army should be such, that a ton of powder may
be spared, you are to direct that quantity to be sent to New-York, and all such
cannon and military stores as shall not be wanted in Canada, or in the forti-
fications on the lakes, to be sent to Albany, there to remain until the Congress
give farther directions concerning them; and for this purpose, you are here-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775, 171
wº- -v---
with furnished with a list of the ordnance and military stores, which were at
those places when taken. ' -
“You are to inſorm the general that the pay of some of the officers is raised,
and to take with you from the minutes, the additional establishment.
“You are to direct all such officers and soldiers as shall re-inlist, to be paid
all arrears that may be due to them, according to the rolls to be sent by gov-
ernor Trumbull, who in the mean time will be requested by Congress to send
the rolls to the general, ascertaining how long the men have been in service.
“The disposition of the prisoners is approved of by the Congress, but the
officers are not to be permitted to reside in or near any sea-port.
“You are authorized to assure major Brown and major Livingston, that the
Congress have a just sense of their important services, and will take the first
proper opportunity to reward them. *
“You are also to acquaint the general, that general Montgomery’s request,
as to the pay of the company of artillery by him appointed, is complied with.
“A committee will be appointed to procure as much hard money as will be
necessary to be transmitted to the deputy pay-master general in the northern
army, to be used in Canada.”
Resolved, That the committee appointed to make an estimate, &c. be au-
thorized to contract for the making proper paper for a future emission of paper
bills of credit.
Resolved, That the president draw an order on the treasurers for the sum of
3000 dollars, in favour of the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, agreeable
to the request of the honorable the assembly, towards the expense of the bat-
talion ordered to be raised in said colony.
Resolved, That all letters to and from the delegates of the United Colonies,
during the sessions of Congress, pass, and be carried free of postage, the mem-
bers having engaged upon honour not to frank or enclose any letters but their
OWI).
Ordered, That this be published. f
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers for the sum of 20,000
dollars in favour of Francis Lewis and Roger Sherman, esqrs. to enable them
to pay for the clothing they were ordered to purchase. *
The matters to this day referred, being postponed, and the order of the day
renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow,
THURSDAY, November 9, 1775.
A letter from the agents respecting the delivery of the petition and the re-
ception it met with, was read:
Ordered, That the secretary publish the substance of said letter.
Resolved, That the appointment of a commander of the fortresses on Hud-
son’s river be postponed to Wednesday next, and that captain John Hanson
take and keep the command of the said fortresses and the troops there, until
the Congress shall appoint a commander.
On º made by the delegates of Georgia,
Resolved, That the president draw an order on the treasurers in favour of
the delegates of that colony, for the sum of 5000 dollars, towards the expense
of the battalion ordered to be raised there, the said colony to account for the
Sālīle.
The committee to whom was referred the petition from some inhabitants of
Nova-Scotia, brought in their report, and the same being taken into considera-
tion and debated, was postponed till to-morrow.
The order of the day renewed.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
172 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
FRIDAY, JNovember 10, 1775.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers for 1000 dollars, in favor
of Mr. R. Livingston, Mr. Paine, and Mr. Langdon, the committee appointed
to repair to the northward,
Resolved, That the goods bought for the northern army be sent by land to
Dobb's ferry, and that the president write to the convention of New-York, and
tlesire them to have a vessel ready to take in the said goods, and transport them
immediately to Albany.
Resolved, That the medicines purchased in this city for the army at Cam-
bridge, be sent thither by land.
Resolved, That the president give written orders to Dr. Morgan, to call
upon Mr. Sears, and desire him to deliver what medicines he has under his
care, or can procure, that they may be forwarded to the camp at Cambridge,
for the use of the army.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to enquire into the state of the
colony of Virginia, to consider whether any, and what provisions may be ne-
cessary for its defence, and to report the same to Congress.
That the committee consist of five.
The members chosen, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Ward,
and Mr. Johnson.
Resolved, That all letters to and from the commander in chief of the con-
tinental army, or the chief commander in the army in the northern department,
ass and be carried free of postage.
Resolved, That the commander of the New-Jersey battalions be directed to
march six companies of said battalions, as soon as they are completed, to
* the fort on Hudson’s river, in the highlands, in the colony of New-
OI’Ke
Resolved, That the president write to governor Cooke, and request him to
send to the committee of safety of New-York, one ton of powder, for the de-
fence of that city and colony.
Resolved, That there be paid to John Wendall, the express from Albany,
who has been detained twelve days by order of Congress, the sum of sixteen
dollars, for the time he has been detained.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favor of the dele-
gates of New-Jersey, for 5000 dollars, towards the expense of the battalions
ordered to be raised in that colony. f
Ordered, That the delegates of Pennsylvania call on the gentlemen appointed
to sign the continental bills, and request them with all possible expedition to
complete that business.
The committee appointed to consider farther ways and means of promoting
the manufacture of salt-petre, brought in their report, which was read in these
words:
It º to your committee, that skilful persons sent to Virginia, and em-
ployed there in a public salt-petre work, under the inspection of gentlemen
who will superintend it, may, with sufficient assistance, produce a considerable
quantity of that article; and that a further supply of it may be procured from
the other colonies, if the assemblies, conventions, and councils of safety will
appoint proper persons in their respective colonies, whose business it shall be
to employ and set to work such and so many of their countrymen, as they
shall judge fit, to collect earth from which nitrous salt may be extracted, and
to manufacture it into salt petre.
The Congress taking into consideration the said report,
Resolved, That Richard Bland, Peter Poythress, John Bannister, John Buffin,
Archibald Cary, Benjamin Watkins, John Tabb, Richard Adams, Richard
Randolph, and Theodorick Bland, the younger, esqrs. or any five or more of
them, be desired and empowered to agree with the proprietors of the Public
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 173
ware-houses, and of other places impregnated with nitre, in the counties of
Prince-George, Dinwiddie, Chesterfield, and Henrico; Carter Braxton, John
Syme, Burwell Basset, Bartholomew Dandridge, William Aylett, George
Brook, George Lyne, and George Webb, esqrs. or any five or more of them,
with such proprietors in the counties of Hanover, New-Kent, King William,
and King and Queen; Edmund Pendleton, James Taylor, George Stubblefield,
Mann Page, the younger, Joseph Jones, William Fitzhugh, of Sommerset, and
Fielding Lewis, esqrs. or any four or more of them, with such proprietors in the
counties of Caroline, Spotsylvania, and King George ; and Charles Carter, of
Stafford, Thomas Ludwell Lee, Henry Lee, Thomas Blackburn, Charles Broad-
water, and George Mason, esqrs. or any three or more of them, with such
roprietors in the county of Stafford, Prince William, and Fairfax, in the co-
ony of Virginia, to purchase for the use of the United Colonies, all the salt-
petre which may within twelve calendar months be produced from the floors
and yards of the ware-houses and other places, under the management of such
persons as the Congress shall appoint for that purpose, and to pay to the owners
of the soil, if they will manufacture it at their own expense, after the rate of
two fifths of a dollar for every pound weight, avoirdupois, of clean, pure, and
meat salt-petre, delivered to the gentlemen above named, for the use of the
United Colonies, and to hire laborers, and provide the necessary apparatus, to
be employed under the direction of the said managers, in the soil of such per-
Sons as shall not chuse to adventure in the business themselves, paying to
the owners, if they require satisfaction, what they shall be willing to take, so
that it do not exceed one forty-fifth part of a dollar for every pound weight,
avoirdupois, of salt-petre of the like quality, in both which cases the Congress
will make good the contracts, and will pay all such expenses as shall be incurred
by the gentlemen desired to superintend the operation; on whose zeal, influ-
ence, and abilities, to procure, with all convenient expedition, a large quantity
of this article, so necessary for the defence of their country, and thereby ren:
der it a very important service, and by their example and activity to forward
and encourage this useful work, the Congress rely with confidence.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the assemblies, conventions, and com-
mittees of safety, of the thirteen United Colonies, to appoint certain persons
within each of the said colonies, whose business it shall be to employ and set
to work so many persons as they may think proper, both to work up such earth
as is now fit for making salt-petre, and to collect together and place in beds or
walls under sheds, all such earth and composition of materials as are suitable
to produce salt-petre, after being duly exposed to the air, in order to encrease
the produce of it, and that the delegates of the respective colonies be directed
to send this resolution, together with the resolutions of last session .#
saltpetre, to their respective colonies, and cause them to be printed and made
public there.
Resolved, That two battalions of marines be raised, consisting of one colonel,
two lieutenant-colonels, two majors, and other officers as usual in other regi-
ments; that they consist of an equal number of privates with other battalions;
that particular care be taken, that no persons be appointed to offices, or inlist-
edinto said battalions, but such as are good seamen, or so acquainted with ma-
ritime affairs as to be able to serve to advantage by sea when required : that
they be inlisted and commissioned to serve for and during the present war
botween Great-Britain and the colonies, unless dismissed by order of Con-
gress : that they be distinguished by the names of the first and second batta-
lions of American marines, and that they be considered as part of the number
which the continental army before Boston is ordered to consist of.
Ordered, That a copy of the above be transmitted to the general.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
174 Journals OF CONGRESS, 1775.
--rºy&
SATURDAY, JNovember 11, 1775.
Resolved, That it be recommended to such proprietors of tobacco ware-
houses, and tobacco houses in Virginia and Maryland, as cannot speedily have
the earth of the floors of their houses worked for salt-petre, that they cause those
floors to be soon dug up and left fine, loose, and light, at least six inches deep, suf-
fering the tobacco . and trashy leaves to be spread thereon, and leaving the
doors open, especially in dry weather, as often as convenience will permit,
whereby the soil will be much the more impregnated with nitrous particles, the
manufacture of salt-petre facilitated, and the quantity jº greatly in-
creased. -
Two petitions, one from Charles Wharton, the other from James Lough-
head, each praying to be appointed commissary to the battalions raising in
this colony, were read.
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to contract with such per-
son or persons as will undertake, at the cheapest rate, to supply such conti-
mental troops as are or may be in the barracks at Philadelphia, during their
stay there, with the rations allowed by this Congress.
The members chosen, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Lewis, and Mr. Allen.
Resolved, That the recruiting officers in Pennsylvania, send the recruits they
may enlist as soon as raised, to the barracks in Philadelphia.
A letter from Volkert P. Douw, esq. dated 6th instant, was read.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to take into consideration the fore
going letter, and the minutes of the treaty held with the Indians at Albany, by
the Indian commissioners of the northern department, and report thereon.
That the committee consist of five. -
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Franklin, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Duane,
and Mr. Cushing. º,
Resolved, That the committee appointed to proceed to Ticonderoga and
Canada, be directed to confer with the generals commanding in that depart-
ment, on the propriety of sending the whole or any part of the army under their
command, with proper artillery and ammunition, to Quebec, in order to second
colonel Arnold’s expedition, or to renew the attempt, should his have failed,
and to give directions accordingly.
Resolved, That the fortifications of Quebec, in case it comes into our hands,
be repaired, and furnished with such provisions, arms, ammunition and artillery,
as may be necessary for its security.
Resolved, That in case any one of the foregoing committee be disabled or
prevented from proceeding, the other two have full power to proceed and
transact the business entrusted to them.
The committee appointed to confer with Mr. Kirkland, brought in their re-
ort: Whereupon,
Resolved, That 113 dollars be paid to the rev. Samuel Kirkland, for his past
services, out of the continental treasury.
Resolved, That for the propagation of the gospel amongst the Indians, and
conciliating their affections to the United Colonies, and thereby preserving their
friendship and neutrality, Mr. Kirkland be continued in his mission amongst
them, and that for those important purposes, he be allowed and paid out of the
continental treasury, for the support of himself and family the ensuing year,
sixty-five pounds sterling, or 288 8-9 dollars, and that sixty pounds sterling,
or 266 2-3 dollars be advanced to him, to be by him disposed of in such manner
as may best promote the happiness of the Indians, and attach them to these
colonies.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be postponed until the
committee to whom Mr. Douw’s letter, and the minutes of the late treaty are
referred, shall have made their report. *
Journals OF CONGRESS, 1775. 175
Resolved, That 3000 tin cartouch boxes be made and sent to the camp, or if
tin sufficient to make them can be procured, that it be sent.
Ordered, That the delegates of Pennsylvania execute this.
Resolved, That the salt-petre committee be empowered to enter into a con-
tract with persons who offer to go to Virginia on this business.
Resolved, That 500,000 dollars be sent to the pay-master general, for the use
of the army in Massachusetts-Bay.
That 50,000 dollars be sent to the convention of New-York, to be account-
ed for by said convention. g tº
Ordered, That the delegates of Pennsylvania be a committee to count and
forward the said sums under a guard. º
Resolved, That the guard do not exceed three or two of the light horse,
and, a servant.
Two petitions, one from Murray, Sansom and others, and the other from Jas-
per Griffing, were read. * * * g
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to take into consideration
the foregoing petitions, and report thereon to Congress.
The members chosen, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Lee, and Mr. Johnson.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, JNovember 13, 1775.
A letter from general Washington, with sundry papers enclosed, was read.
Ordered, That the rules and regulations of the army be republished, with
the additions and alterations lately made.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare a declaration,
in answer to supdry illegal ministerial proclamations that have lately appeared
in America &
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. W. Livingston.
Resolved, That Thursday, the 23d instant, be assigned for electing a briga-
dier-general.
The several matters to this day referred being postponed, and the order of
the day renewed, adjourned to ten o’clock to morrow, and from thence to ten
o'clock on Wednesday.
WEDNESDAY, JNovember 15, 1775.
An express having arrived with an account of the surrender of fort St.
º the letters from general Schuyler and general Montgomery, were
l'êa.01.
Resolved, That an order for 542 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in fa-
vour of captain Thomas Price, on account of his rifle company, he to be ac-
countable for the same.
The committee to whom the petitions from Jasper Griffing, and Murray,
Sansom and company and others, were referred, brought in their report, which
was read, and agreed to as follows:
Your committee on the memorial of Jasper Griffing, are of opinion, that the
examination of the facts, set forth in that memorial, ought to be referred to
the committee of observation, for Guilford, and that the same being sufficiently
proved, the schooner Betsey, mentioned in said memorial, ought to be permit-
ted to proceed on her voyage, with the cargo purchased and provided for her
before the 10th day of September last, the master and owner of the vessel
previously making oath, that they will use their best and utmost endeavours,
that the said cargo shall be landed in some foreign port.
On the memorial of Murray, Sansom and company, Jacob Watson, and
Frederick Rhinelander, of the city of New-York, your committee having exam-
ined as far as they could, into the conduct of the parties concerned, find no
i.76 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
ground to suspect that the owners of the cargo intended it should be landed or
disposed of in any other manner than set forth in the said memorial, but your
committee think there is just ground to suspect, that William Barron, the
master of the ship Peggy, would not be very solicitous to prevent the cargo,
which might be useful to the ministerial army, from falling into the possession
of the men of war, he having been before taken in the same ship, in Rhode-
Island, with a cargo from Chesapeake-Bay, for Europe, nor can your commit-
tee approve the conduct of the owner of the ship who continued the captain
afterwards.
Your committee are therefore of opinion, that another master ought to be
appointed to the said ship, who shall be approved by the committee of Norwich,
and that the time of her sailing, as well as her tº: be appointed by that com-
mittee, and the master sworn to use his best endeavours to prevent the said
ship falling into the possession of any man of war or cutter, and to pursue as
far as he can, the orders of the said committee in navigating the ºf ship, on
which terms your committee are of opinion, the said ship ought to be permit-
ted to proceed with her cargo. *
A proposal, from Nathaniel Sackett, for making a quantity of salt-petre,
being received and read,
Ordered, That the same be referred to the salt-petre committee.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
-
THURSDAY, JNovember 16, 1775.
Resolved, That two small swift sailing vessels be provided for packets, to be
under the direction of Congress.
Ordered, That Mr. Morris be appointed to provide said vessels, and that he
be directed to get one ready to sail as soon as possible, and the other in a
month hence.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to devise ways and means
of employing these vessels to the best advantage.
The members chosen, Mr. Lynch, Mr. R. Morris, and Dr. Franklin.
The assembly of Pennsylvania having, by a resolution of their house, recom-
mended three gentlemen for field officers to the battalion raising in said colo-
ny, the same, together with applications from sundries, to be appointed adjutant
and quarter-master to said battalion, were read.
Sundry papers from the general assembly of the colony of Massachusetts-
Bay, being laid before Congress and read,
Resolved, That these be referred to a committee of seven.
The members chosen, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Sherman, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr.
Ward, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Hooper, and Mr. Harrison.
Resolved, That the committee appointed on the 11th instant, to contract for
supplying the troops in the barracks in Philadelphia, be empowered to contract
for supplying the same wherever sent, for twelve calendar months, provided
. are so long continued in the continental service, to commence next Mon-
aV".
ºne committee of claims reported, that there is due to Henry Rankin, for
provisions to captain Ross’s company, 161.9 dollars.
To John Hider, for carrying powder to Trenton, 10.6 dollars.
This to be paid per order to Joseph Jewell.
To Francis Lee, for horse-hire for expresses, 20 dollars.
To John Little, for entertainment of sundry expresses, 16.8 dollars.
Ordered, That the same be paid. º
The said committee also reported an account of Major Coates and captain
Copperthwaite, which being read, t
fºrdered, That the same lie on the table for the perusal of the members.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 177
—rr-
–4-a-
Resolved, That the delegates write to their colleagues, who are absent, and
inform them that the Congress expect their immediate attendance.
Resolved, That for the future, no member absent himself from Congress
without leave of Congress,
Resolved, That it be a rule of this Congress, that every member remain in
his seat whilst any paper is reading or question putting.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JNovember 17, 1775.
A letter from general Washington, enclosing a letter and journal of colonel
Arnold, and sundry papers, being received, the same were read: Whereupon,
Resolved, That a committee of seven be appointed, to take into considera-
tion so much of the general’s letter as relates to the disposal of such vessels
and cargoes belonging to the enemy, as shall fall into the hands of, or be taken
by, the inhabitants of the United Colonies.
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. E. Rutledge, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. W.
Livingston, Dr. Franklin, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. Johnson.
Resolved, That the prisoners taken at Chambly and St. John’s, be sent to,
and kept in, the towns of Reading, Lancaster, and York, in the colony of Penn-
sylvania.
That the committee appointed the 11th instant, to contract for supplying
the battalion, raised in Pennsylvania, be empowered to distribute the said pri-
soners in the towns aforesaid, and contract for their support or subsistence.
That the rations of the privates be the same as are allowed the privates in
the continental army. º
That orders issue to the officer who has the charge of conducting the prisoners,
to march them by the nearest road to Reading, in the colony of Pennsylvania,
and that the deputy commissary-general be directed to supply them with
provisions for their march, agreeable to the rations supplied the continental
army,
That the said commissary be directed, if the prisoners agree to it, to send
the women, children and baggage by water to Amboy, from thence to be sent
across to Bordentown, and from thence by water to Philadelphia, from which
last place they will be sent to join the garrison in the towns allotted to them,
º being judged the safest, cheapest, and most commodious way of conveying
10 II).
...Whereas it is become necessary to appoint a colonel of the regiment of ar-
tillery, in the room of colonel Gridley, on account of his advanced age,
Resolved, That this Congress will indemnify colonel Gridley for any loss
of half-pay, which he may sustain in consequence of his having been in the
service of the United Colonies.
The Congress then proceeded to the choice of a colonel of the regiment of
artillery, and
Henry Knox, esq. was unanimously elected. *
Resolved, That the commissioned officers, taken in the forts of Chambly
and St. John’s, be put upon their parole of honour, that they will not go into or
near any seaport town, nor farther than six miles distant from the respective
places of their residence, without leave of the Continental Congress, and that
they will carry on no political correspondence whatever, on the subject
of the dispute between Great-Britain and the colonies, so long as they remain
prisoners.
Whereas the officers taken at fort Chambly, have been permitted by general
§chuyler, to make choice of, and to reside in Trenton, in New-Jersey, and the
º * prisoners by him made, has been approved by Gongress,
OL • lo * 23
178 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
Ordered, That a copy of the foregoing resolution be sent to the committee
of Trenton, and that the said committee be desired to get the same signed by
the officers there.
Resolved, That the officers taken at St. John’s, be sent to Windham and
Lebanon, in the colony of Connecticut, provided general Schuyler has not
given his word for another disposition of them.
The several matters to this day referred being postponed, and the order of
the day renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, November 20, 1775.
Sundry letters from general Washington and governor Trumbull, with pa-
pers enclosed, among which were intercepted letters from Cork, were read.
Two petitions, one from Godfred Fehr, the other from Melchior Neff, were
presented to Congress and read.
Capt. John Hulbert, who was sent by general Schuyler to conduct the offi-
cers, who were taken prisoners at Fort Čhambly, to Trenton, attended and
made report of his proceedings.
Resolved, That the sum of 16,669 1-5 dollars be put into the hands of Mr.
Thomas Lowry, of New Jersey, for the purpose of furnishing the two battalions
raised in said colony with the articles allowed them, in lieu of bounty, and for
one month’s pay of said battalions, he to give security for the disposal of said
money, and to render account to Congress.
Ordered, That Mr. R. Morris confer with Mr. Lowry, and receive proposals
with regard to the recompence he will expect for this service.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to contract for º the bat-
talions raised in Pennsylvania, be empowered to advertise and receive propo-
sals, and contract for supplying the above two battalions with the rations al-
lowed them.
The Congress then proceeded to the choice of an adjutant for the battalion
under the command of colonel lord Sterling, raised in the eastern division of
New-Jersey, and Alexander Clough was elected. e
Resolved, That general Schuyler be directed to make further search in the
places where the lead was found at Crown-Point and Ticonderoga, and that he
send as much lead as can be spared to the camp at Cambridge. º
Resolved, That the secret committee be empowered to contract for the im-
portation of an hundred tons of lead.
Resolved, That the intercepted letters be referred to the committee of seven,
appointed the 17th instant, in order to select such parts of them as it may be
proper to publish, and that they lay the extracts before Congress.
he orders of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, JNovember 21, 1775.
Mr. Morris, who was appointed to confer with Mr. Lowry, having made his
report, and the same being considered, º
'Resolved, That Mr. Lowry be allowed one and a quarter per cent. in full of
all charges, for the money passing through his hands. º
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take in-
to consideration the petitions from Bermuda, to them referred, and after some
time spent therein, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported,
that the committee had taken into consideration the petitions to them referred:
and had come to certain resolutions thereon, which he read in his place, and
then delivered in.
The report of the committee being again read,
Ordered, That the same be considered to-morrow.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 179
…ºt
The orders of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, JW ovember 22, 1775.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report from the committee
of the whole, which was agreed to as follows:
The committee of the whole, to whom were referred the several petitions from
the island of Bermuda, representing the distress to which they were exposed
by the non-exportation agreement, and praying to be relieved in such manner
as the Congress may deem consistent with the safety of America, report that
they have considered the same, and thereupon came to the following resolu-
tions:
That the inhabitants of the island of Bermuda appear friendly to the cause
of America, and ought to be supplied with such and so great a quantity of the
produce of these colonies, as may be necessary for their subsistence and home
consumption ; that, in the opinion of this committee, they will annually require
for the purposes aforesaid, 72,000 bushels of Indian corn, 2,000 barrels of bread
or flour, 1,000 barrels of beef or pork, 2,100 bushels of peas or beans, and 300
tierces of rice, and that they be permitted to export the same yearly.
That the said inhabitants ought to pay for the above annual allowance in salt,
but it is not the design of this resolution to exclude them from the privilege of
receiving American produce to any amount in exchange for arms, ammunition,
salt-petre, sulphur, and field pieces, agreeable to a resolution of Congress, pass-
ed the 15th of July last. º
That, to enable such of these colonies as can conveniently furnish the island
of Bermuda with the abovementioned allowance, to divide whatever advantages
may result therefrom, in proportion to their respective shares of the general ex-
pense. It is further the opinion of this committee, ---
That the colony of South Carolina supply them with 300 tierces of rice.
That the colony of North Carolina supply them with ré,000 bushels of In-
dian corn, and 468 bushels of peas or beans.
That the colony of Virginia supply them with 36,000 bushels of Indian corn,
and 1,050 bushels of peas or beans.
That the colony of Maryland supply them with 20,000 bushels of Indian
corn, and 582 bushels of peas or beans.
That the colony of Pennsylvania supply them with 1,200 barrels of flour or
bread, and 600 barrels of beef or pork.
That the colony of New York supply them with 800 barrels of flour or bread,
and 400 barrels of beef or pork.
. That the conventions or committees of safety of the above mentioned colo-
nies ought to superintend the said exportation, provide against frauds, and
take care that, in exchanging the said commodities of salt and provisions, no
undue advantage be taken by either party of their mutual wants, and further,
that no vessel employed in this business ought to load without their permission,
and that when they shall, in pursuance of these resolutions, permit any of the
said vessels to load, they do give notice thereof to the committee of inspection
ºf the county, city, or town where such vessel shall load, and inform them that
the same is done under the authority and by order of this Congress.
Ordered, That a copy of the foregoing resolutions be transmitted to the se-
Veral conventions, assemblies, or committees of safety of the United Colonies,
and to the island of Bermuda; and that the inhabitants of the latter beinform-
ed., that the Congress will afford them other necessaries (such as lumber, Soap,
and candles) whenever the quality and quantity of each of those articles used
in the island shall be ascertained.
That Edward Stiles be permitted, under the direction of the committee of
safety of the colony of Pennsylvania, to send the brig Sea-Nymph, Samuel
180 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
Stobel, master, with 4000 bushels of Indian corn, 300 barrels of flour, 100
barrels of bread, 20 barrels of pork, 8 barrels of beef, 30 boxes of soap, and 15
barrels of apples to Bermuda, |. the immediate supply of the inhabitants, and
that the said cargo be considered as part of the annual allowance aforesaid, for
the year ensuing. ^,
The committee on Volkert P. Douw’s letter, and the minutes of the treaty
at Albany, brought in their report, which being read and debated,
Resolved, That the further consideration thereof be deferred till to-morrow.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, JW ovember 23, 1775.
Resolved, That 120 dollars be paid to captain John Hulbert, and charged
to general Schuyler, and that said J. Hulbert, after stationing his men at
the fortresses on Hudson’s river, have leave to be absent ten days.
The committee for fitting out armed vessels laid before Congress a draught
of rules for the government of the American navy, and articles to be signed
by the officers and men employed in that service, which were read, and ordered
to lie on the table for the perusal of the members.
The committee on general Washington’s letter brought in their report,
which being read,
Ordered, That the same lie on the table for the perusal of the members. ,
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the report of the committee
on Mr. Douw's letter, and the Albany treaty, and after debate, the first pa-
ragraph was postponed, and the remainder agreed to as º: :
The committee to whom it was referred to take into consideration the letter
from Volkert P. Douw, esq. and the minutes of the treaty held with the Indians
at Albany, by the commissioners for Indian affairs in the northern department,
have examined the same, and come to the following resolutions thereupon :
That it is the opinion of this committee, that the Indians be assured that this
Congress are pleased with their desire, that the trade should be opened as
formerly at Albany and Schenectady, that the Congress will exert their strenu-
ous endeavours to procure the goods the Indians many want, and put the trade
under such wise regulations, as that mutual justice may be effected, and that
they hope those endeavours will be successful.
hat general Schuyler be desired to furnish the commissioners at Albany
with some powder, if he can spare it, to be distributed among the Indians, who
in the present circumstances, are much distressed by the want of that article.
That the commissioners for transacting Indian affairs in the northern de-
partment, be desired to obtain from the Mohawk Indians, and the corporation of
Albany, a state of the controversy between them, concerning the land desired
by the former in the late treaty at Albany, to be restored to them, and report
the matter as it shall appear to them, to the Congress.
That the said commissioners be desired, at the expense of the United Colo-
nies, to provide for and entertain the sachems and warriors of the Six Na:
tions, and other Indians friendly to these colonies, their attendants and
messengers, with the accustomed hospitality when they come to Albany or
Schenectady, to treat, or give intelligence of public affairs, or upon a visit,
and for this purpose that 750 dollars be lodged in the hands of the said cont-
missioners, subject to account.
That the said commissioners be directed to employ two blacksmiths for
reasonable salaries, to reside among and work for the Indians of the Six
Nations. • º
That the said commissioners be empowered to employ an interpreter, with
a salary of 222 1-5 dollars by the year, commencing the 12th day of this
month, who shall also be allowed his travelling expenses to be settled by the
f
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 181
commissioners, and James Deane, if they judge him well qualified, is recom-
mended to execute this office.
That 23 dollars be paid James Deane over and above the 75 dollars advanced
him by the commissioners for his past services.
Resolved, That three members be added to the committee on the Albany
treaty, and that they be directed to consider of a plan for carrying on a trade
with the Indians, and to devise ways and means for procuring goods proper
for that trade.
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Deane, and Mr. Lewis.
Whereas major Hawley, who was elected one of the commissioners of In-
dian affairs in the northern department, cannot, on account of the situation of
his private affairs, attend that business, and he having by his letter desired to
be excused from that service,
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for electing a commissioner of Indian
affairs in the northern department, in the room of the said major Hawley.
Information being given to Congress, that certain frauds have been attempt-
ed in executing contracts for the continent,
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to enquire into that matter.
The members chosen, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Johnson, colonel Lee,
and Mr. S. Adams.
Application being made by Mr. Jay, in behalf of lieutenant Hamar, one of
the prisoners at Trenton, for leave to reside with Mr. Duer, near Saratoga,
the same was granted, he to be on the same parole as other officers, with this
variation, not to go farther than twelve miles from the place now assigned him.
Application being also made in behalf of lieutenant Symes, a prisoner now
in the gaol of Philadelphia, for leave to reside at Trenton, on the same parole
as the other officers there, the same was granted.
Information being given to Congress by the committee of inspection for the
city and liberties of Philadelphia, that sundry persons in this city have refused
to receive in payment or give currency to the bills issued by order of this
Congress, and also to those emitted by the assembly of this province, ~~~. T
Resolved, That a committee of seven be appointed to take this matter into
consideration, and report thereon to Congress.
The members chosen, Mr. Jay, Dr. Franklin, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. Johnson,
Mr. Wythe, Mr. E. Rutledge, and Mr. Jefferson.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed, and the orders of
the day renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JNovember 24, 1775.
Resolved, That despatches be sent to the colony agents in England, by Mr.
Morris’s vessel, which will be ready to sail on Monday next.
The committee to whom the intercepted letters were referred, brought in
their report, which being read and agreed to,
Ordered, That the said committee publish the extracts now laid before Con-
gress, and that they get a thousand copies of the same, together with an au-
thentic account of the capture of Chambly and St. John’s, struck off.
Ordered, That the committee prepare a letter to the colony agents.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress proceeded to the choice of
a commissioner for Indian affairs in the northern department, in the room of
major Hawley, and the ballots being taken and examined,
Timothy Edwards, esq. was unanimously elected.
Resolved. That a committee of three be appointed to take into consideration
the state of North-Carolina, and report to Congress what in their opinion is
necessary to be done for its safety and security.
The members chosen, Mr. E. Rutledge, Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Paca,
189 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report on general Wash-
ington’s letter, and the same, after debate, was referred for farther considera-
tion till to-morrow.
A petition from Downham Newton, was presented and read.
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Allen, and Mr. Jay.
Resolved, That the treasurers pay such sums of money as the committee.
for promoting the manufacture of salt-petre shall draw orders upon, or apply
to them for, not exceeding 1000 dollars, to be accounted for by said committee.
That in case the committee for promoting the manufacture of salt-petre,
cannot procure persons to go to Virginia for that purpose, it be recommended
to the gentlemen, who are desired and empowered to superintend and for-
ward the work in that colony, to employ any skilful managers they can meet
with, to undertake it.
A petition from captain Dugal McGregor, was presented and read.
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee to whom Downham Newton’s
petition is referred.
The committee on the state of the treasury, brought in their report, which
was read, and referred till to-morrow. -
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, JW ovember 25, 1775.
The Congress proceeded to the election of field officers for the battalion
raised in Pennsylvania, when the ballots being taken and examined:
John Bull, esq. was elected colonel.
James Irvine, esq. lieutenant-colonel.
Anthony James Morris, esq. major.
Resolved, That Monday next be assigned for the appointment of an adjutant
and a quarter-master for the second battalion, raised in New Jersey, and of an
adjutant and quarter-master for the battalion raised in Pennsylvania.
Resolved, That Tuesday next be assigned for the consideration of the me-
morials of the tea-holders in New-York and Philadelphia.
-The committee of claims reported, that there is due to J ohn Hinchman, for
provisions furnished to several rifle companies, the sum of 65.2 dollars.
Christopher Haine, for kettles and canteens; furnished to captain Stevenson
and captain Ross’s companies, the sum of 35.8 dollars, which ought to be paid
to Gibson and Aston.
Richard Bache, deputy post-master, for Sundry postages, from the 14th of
October, to 8th November, 1775, inclusive, 31.1 dollars.
Thomas Dewees, for dieting the crew of the ship Rebecca and Frances, 44.4
dollars.
, Levi Hollingsworth, for expenses of himself and three others, to Ticonde-
roga and back again, who took with them a quantity of money for general
Schuyler, the sum of 128 dollars.
Andrew Bunker, for blankets and kettles, furnished captain Stevenson's
company by Anthony Noble, 41.4 dollars.
Doctor Franklin, for the expenses of Mr. Harrison, Mr. Lynch, and himself,
on their journey to the camp at Cambridge, including carriage hire, &c. 581.9
dollars, and for other monies paid by him for the continental service, including
20 dollars advanced to Christopher Madeira, and to be charged to him the
sum of 72.7 dollars.
John Sterret, for goods furnished by Joseph Holmes to captain Morgan's
company, to be charged to said company, the sum of 55.9 dollars.
William West, for goods furnished by John Holmes to captain Cluggage’s
company, the sum of 281.3 dollars, of which sum, 35 12-90 dollars being for
Journals of congress, 1775. 183
S-
*:::= $ R
blankets charged to the continent, and the remainder to captain Cluggage’s
company. *
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on
general Washington’s letter, and the same being debated by paragraphs, was
agreed to as follows:
Whereas, it appears from undoubted information, that many vessels which
had cleared at the respective custom-houses in these colonies, agreeable to the
regulations established by acts of the British parliament, have in a lawless
manner, without even the semblance of just authority, been seized by his ma-
jesty’s ships of war, and carried into the harbour of Boston and other ports,
where they have been rifted of their cargoes, by orders of his majesty's naval
and military officers, there commanding, without the said vessels having been
proceeded against by any form of trial, and without the charge of having
offended against any law.
And whereas orders have been issued in his majesty’s name, to the com-
manders of his ships of war, “to proceed as in the case of actual rebellion
against such of the sea port towns and places being accessible to the king’s
ships, in which any troops shall be raised or military works erected,” under
colour of which said orders, the commanders of his majesty’s said ships of war,
have already burned and destroyed the flourishing and populous town of Fal-
mouth, and have fired upon and much injured several other towns within the
United Colonies, and dispersed at a late season of the year, hundreds of help-
less women and children, with a savage hope that those may perish under the
approaching rigours of the season, who may chance to escape destruction
from fire and sword, a mode of warfare long exploded amongst civilized
nations.
And whereas the good people of these colonies, sensibly affected by the
destruction of their property, and other unprovoked injuries, have at last de-
termined to prevent as much as possible a repetition thereof, and to procure
some reparation for the same, by fitting out armed vessels and ships .# force.
In the execution of which commendable designs, it is possible that those who
have not been instrumental in the unwarrantable violences abovementioned
may suffer, unless some laws be made to regulate, and tribunals erected com-
petent to determine the propriety of captures: Therefore resolved,
1st. That all such ships of war, frigates, sloops, cutters, and armed vessels
as are or shall be employed in the present cruel and unjust war against the
United Colonies, and shall fall into the hands of, or be taken by the inhabi-
tants, thereof, be seized and forfeited to, and for the purposes hereinafter
mentioned.
2d. Resolved, That all transport vessels in the same service, having on
board any troops, arms, ammunition, clothing, provisions, or military or naval
stores, of what kind soever, and all vessels to whomsoever belonging, that shall
be employed in carrying provisions or other necessaries to the British army or
armies, or navy, that now are or shall hereafter be within any of the United
Colonies, or any goods, wares, or merchandise for the use of such fleet or army,
shall beliable to seizure, and with their cargoes shall be confiscated.
3d. That no master or commander of any vessel shall be entitled to cruize for,
ºr make prize of any vessel or cargo before he shall have obtained a commission
from the Congress, or from such person or persons as shall be for that purpose
appointed in some one of the United Colonies.
4th., That it be and is hereby recommended to the several legislatures in the
United Colonies, as soon as possible, to erect courts of justice, or give juris-
diction to the courts now in being for the purpose of determining concerning
the captures to be made as foresaid, and to provide that all trials in such case
be had by ajury under such qualifications, as to the respective legislatures shall
seem expedient. , *
184 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
5th. That all prosecutions shall be commenced in the court of that colony in
which the captures shall be made, but if no such court be at that time erected
in the said colony, or if the capture be made on open sea, then the prosecution
shall be in the court of such colony, as the captor may find most convenient,
provided that nothing contained in this resolution shall be construed so as to
enable the captor to remove his prize from any colony competent to determine
concerning the seizure, after he shall have carried the vessel so seized within
any harbour of the same.
6th. That in all cases an appeal shall be allowed to the Congress, or such
person or persons as they shall appoint for the trial of appeals, provided the
appeal be demanded within five days after definitive sentence, and such appeal
be lodged with the secretary of Congress within forty days afterwards, and
provided the party appealing shall give security to prosecute the said appeal to
effect, and in case of the death of the secretary during the recess of Congress,
then the said appeal to be lodged in Congress within twenty days after the
meeting thereof. --- b
7th. That when any vessel or vessels shall be fitted out at the expense of
any private person or persons, then the captures made shall be to the use of
the owner or owners of the said vessel or vessels; that where the vessels em-
ployed in the capture shall be fitted out at the expense of any of the United
Colonies, then one-third of the prize taken shall be to the use of the captors,
and the remaining two-thirds to the use of the said colony, and where the
vessels so employed shall be fitted out at the continental charge, then one-third
shall go to the captors, and the remaining two-thirds to the use of the United
Colonies; provided, nevertheless, that if the capture be a vessel of war, then
the captors shall be entitled to one-half of the value, and the remainder shall
go to the colony or continent as the case may be, the necessary charges of
condemnation of all prizes, being deducted before distribution made.
8th. That the captures heretofore made by vessels fitted out at the continen-
tal charge were justifiable, and that the distribution of the captor’s share of the
prizes by general Washington, be confirmed, which is as follows:
A captain or commander, 6 shares. Mate, 1% shares.
First lieutenant, 5 do. Gunner, 13 do.
Second lieutenant, 4 do. Boatswain, 13 do.
Surgeon, 4 do. Gunner’s mate, 13 do.
Master, 3 do. Serjeant, 13 do.
Steward, 2 do. Privates, 1 do.
Resolved, That that part of general Washington’s letter of the 11th instant,
respecting the capture of a vessel by the inhabitants of New-Hampshire, be
referred to the committee, who brought in the foregoing report.
The Congress next took into consideration the rules and orders for the fleet
of the United Colonies, but not having time to finish them,
Resolved, That the farther consideration of them be deferred till Monday next.
The orders of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, JNovember 27, 1775.
A report prevailing that young Mr. Skene, who was a prisoner in Connec-
ticut, has made his escape, N
Resolved, That the delegates of Connecticut be a committee to enquire into
the truth of that report.
Resolved, That orders issue to lord Sterling to collect the troops which were
raised in New-Jersey (except the six companies which have been ordered to
the fortresses on Hudson’s river) and to . them in barracks in the eastern
division of New-Jersey, as contiguous to New-York as can be, there to remain
till further orders from Congress,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 185
grº-
Resolved, That a letter be written to the convention of New-York, request.
ing them to use their utmost endeavours to furnish the troops raised in New-
Jersey for the defence of New-York, with as many arms as they can spare.
The Congress then proceeded to the choice of an adjutant and quarter-
master for the battalion raised in the western division of New-Jersey, when
Mr. Ephraim Anderson was elected adjutant, and Mr. Buddel Shin, quarter-
master. *
Resolved, That the troops in the service of the continent be supplied with
fuel and bedding at the expense of the continent. *
Resolved, That an order for 3000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in fa-
vour of the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, to be applied towards the
pay of the battalion raised in said colony, the committee to account for the ex-
penditure of the same. *
A letter from general Washington of the 19th instant, enclosing a copy of a
letter from colonel Arnold, of the 27th October, being received, was read. gº
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the report of the commit;
tee on the disputes between the people of Connecticut and Pennsylvania, and
after debate, *
Resolved, That the same be recommitted, and that it be an instruction to
the committee to hear evidence on the possession and jurisdiction of the lands
in dispute, and reduce to writing such parts of the evidence as they shall think
l'O?)€I". ---
p %. three of the committee are absent, viz. Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr. Chase, and
Mr. Kinsey,
Resolved, That three members be elected in their stead.
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Jay, and Mr. Hooper.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
f TUESDAY, JVovember 28, 1775.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the rules and orders for the na-
Vy of the United Colonies, and the same being debated by paragraphs, were
agreed to as follows:
Rules for the regulation of the navy of the United Colonies.
The commanders of all ships and vessels belonging to the thirteen United
Colonies, are strictly required to shew in themselves a good example of honor
and virtue to their officers and men, and to be very vigilant in inspecting the
behaviour of all such as are under them, and to discountenance and suppress
all dissolute, immoral, and disorderly practices, and also such as are contrary
tº the rules of discipline and obedience, and to correct those who are guilty of
the same, according to the usage of the sea.
The commanders of the ships of the thirteen United Colonies, are to take
care that divine service be performed twice a day on board, and a sermon
Preached on Sundays, unless bad weather or other extraordinary accidents
prevent. i.e.
If any shall be heard to swear, curse, or blaspheme the name of God, the
$ºmmander is strictly enjoined to punish them for every offence, by causing
them to wear a wooden collar, or some other shameful badge of distinction, for
* long time as he shall judge proper. If he be a commissioned officer, he shall
forfeit one shilling for each offence, and a warrant or inferior officer six pence,
He who is guilty ºf drunkenness, if a seaman, shall be put in irons until he is
sober, but if an officer, he shall forfeit two days’ pay.
No commander shall inflict any punishment upon a seaman beyond twelve
lashes upon his bare back, with a cat of nine tails ; if the fault shall deserve a
&eater Punishment, he is to apply to the commander in chief of the navy, in
VoI. I. 94
186 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
|
order to the trying of him by a court martial, and in the mean time, he may put
him under confinement,
The commander is never by his own authority to discharge a commission or
warrant officer, nor to punish or strike him, but he may suspend or confine
them, and when he comes in the way of a commander in chief, apply to him for
holding a court martial. * ~
The officer who commands by accident of the captain or commander’s ab-
sence (unless he be absent for a time by leave) shall not order any correction,
but confinement, and upon the captain’s return on board, he shall then give an
account of his reasons for so doing.
The captain is to cause the articles of war to be hung up in some public place
of the ship, and read to the ship’s company once a month.
Whenever a captain shall inlist a seaman, he shall take care to enter on his
books the time and terms of his entering, in order to his being justly paid.
The captain shall, before he sails, make return to, and leave with the Con-
gress, or such person or persons as the Congress shall appoint for that purpose,
a complete list of all his officers and men, with the time and terms of their en-
tering; and during his cruize shall keep a true account of the desertion or death
of any of them, and of the entering of others, and after his cruize, and before
any of them are paid off, he shall make return of a complete list of the same,
including those who shall remain onboard his ship.
The men shall, at their request, be furnished with slops that are necessary
by the captain or purser, who shall keep an account of the same, and the cap-
tain, in his return in the last mentioned article directed to be made, shall men-
tion the amount delivered to each man, in order to its being stopped out of his
3.V.
X, to the term “inferior officer,” the captain is to take notice that the same
does not include any commission nor any warrant officer, except the second
. surgeon’s mate, cook, armorer, gun-smith, master at arms, and sail-
Iſla Kel".
The captain is to take care when any inferior officers or volunteer seamen
are turned over into the ship under his command from any other ship, not to
rate them on the ship’s books in a worse quality, or lower degree or station,
than they served in the ship they were removed from ; and for his guidance he
is to demand from the commander of the ship from which they are turned over,
a list, under his hand, of their names and qualities.
Any officer, seaman, or others, entitled to wages or prize money, may have
the same paid to his assignee, provided the assignment be attested by the cap-
tain or commander, the master or purser of the ship, or a chief magistrate of
some county or corporation. .*
The captain is to discourage the seamen of his ship from selling any part of
their wages or shares, and never to attest the letter of attorney of any seaman,
until he is fully satisfied that the same is not granted in consideration of money
given for the purchase of his wages or shares.
When any inferior officer or seaman dies, the captain is forthwith to make
out a ticket for the time of his service, and to send the same by the first safe
conveyance to the Congress, or agents, by them for that purpose appointed, in
order to the wages being forthwith paid to the executors or administrators of
the deceased. *
A convenient place shall be set apart for sick or hurt men, to which they are
to be removed, with their hammocks and bedding, when the surgeon shallad.
vise the same to be necessary, and some of the crew shall be appointed to attend
and serve them, and to keep the place clean.
The cooper shall make buckets with covers and cradles, if necessary, for,
their use. •
All ships furnished with fishing tackle, being in such places where fish is tº
be had, the captain is to employ some of the company in fishing; the fish to be
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 187
===&º
ammºmºmºmºmº"a
distributed daily to such persons as are sick or upon recovery, provided the
surgeon recommend it, and the surplus, by turns amongst the messes of the of.
ficers and seamengratis, without any deduction of their allowance of provisions
on that account.
It is left to the discretion of commanders of squadrons, to shorten the allow-
ance of provisions according to the exigence of the service, taking care that
the men be punctually paid for the same.
The like power is given to captains of single ships in cases of absolute ne-
cessity.
If there should be a want of pork, the captain is to order three pounds of beef
to be issued to the men, in lieu of two pounds of pork. º
One day in every week shall be issued out a proportion of flour and suet, in
lieu of beef, for the seamen, but this is not to extend beyond four months’ victu-
alling at one time, nor shall the purser receive any allowance for flour or suet
kept longer on board than that time, and there shall be supplied, once a year, a
proportion of canvass for pudding-bags, after the rate of one ell for every six-
teen men.
If any ships of the thirteen United Colonies, shall happen to come into port
in want of provisions, the warrant of a commander in chief shall be sufficient
to the agent or other instrument of the victualling, to supply the quantity
wanted, and in urgent cases where delay may be hurtful, the warrant of the
captain of the ship shall be of equal effect.
The captain is frequently to order the proper officers to inspect the condi-
tion of the provisions, and if the bread proves damp, to have it aired upon the
quarter deck or poop, and also examine the flesh cask, and if any of the pickle
be leaked out, to have new made and put in, and the cask made tight and secure.
The captain or purser shall secure the clothes, bedding, and other things of
such persons as shall die or be killed, to be delivered to their executors or ad-
ministrators.
All papers, charter parties, bills of lading, passports, and other writings
whatsoever, found on board any ship or ships, which shall be taken, shall be
carefully preserved, and the originals sent to the court of justice for maritime
affairs, appointed or to be appointed by the legislatures in the respective colo-
nies, for judging concerning such prize or prizes; and if any person or persons
shall wilfully or negligently destroy or suffer to be destroyed, any such paper
or papers, he or they so offending, shall forfeit their share of such prize or
prizes, and suffer such other punishment, as they shall be judged by a court-
martial to deserve.
lf any person or persons, shall embezzle, or steal, or take away any cables,
anchors, sails, or any of the ship's furniture, or any of the powder, arms, am-
inunition, or provisions of any ship belonging to the thirteen United Colonies,
he or they shall suffer such punishment as a court-martial shall order.
When in sight of a ship or ships of the enemy, and at such other times as
may appear to make it necessary to prepare for an engagement, the captain
shall order all things in his ship in a proper posture for fight, and shall, in his
own person, and according to his duty, heart on and encourage the inferior
officers and men to fight courageously, and not to behave themselves faintly or
cry for quarters, on pain of such punishment as the offence shall appear to de-
serve for his neglect.
Any captain or brother officer, mariner, or others, who shall basely desert
their duty or station in the ship, and run away while the enemy is in sight, or,
ºn time of action, shall entice others to do so, shall suffer death, or such other
Punishment as a court-martial shall inflict.
Any officer, Seaman, or marine, who shall begin; excite, cause, or join in any
ºny or sedition in the ship to which he belongs, on any pretence whatsoever,
shall suffer death, or such other punishment as a court-martial shall direct.
Any person in or belonging to the ship, who shall utter any words of sedition
|
188 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
and mutiny, or endeavor to make any mutinous assemblies on any pretence
whatsoever, shall suffer such punishment as a court-martial shall inflict.
None shall presume to quarrel with or strike his superior officer, on pain oſ
such punishment as a court-martial shall order to be inflicted. *
If any person shall apprehend he has just cause of complaint, he shall
quietly and decently make the same known to his superior officer, or to the
captain, as the case may require, who shall take care that justice be done him.
There shall be no quarrelling or fighting between ship-mates on board any
ship belonging to the thirteen ünited Colonies, nor shall there be used any
reproachful or provoking speeches, tending to make quarrels and disturbance,
on pain of imprisonment, and such other punishment, as a court-martial shall
judge proper to inflict. gr
If any person shall sleep upon his watch, or negligently perform the duty
which shall be enjoined him to do, or forsake his station, he shall suffer such
punishment as a court-martial shall judge proper to inflict, according to the
nature of his offence.
All murder shall be punished with death.
All robbery and theft shall be punished at the discretion of a court-martial.
Any master at arms who shall refuse to receive such prisoner or prisoners,
as shall be committed to his charge, or having received them, shall suffer him
or them to escape, or dismiss them without i. for so doing, shall suffer in
his or their stead, as a court-martial shall order and direct.
The captains, officers, and others, shall use their utmost endeavors to detect,
apprehend, and bring to punishment, all offenders, and shall at all times readily
assist the officers appointed for that purpose in the discharge of their duty,
on pain of being proceeded against, and punished by a court-martial at dis-
cretion. *
All other faults, disorders, and misdemeanors, which shall be committed on
board any ship belonging to the thirteen United Colonies, and which are not
herein mentioned, shall be punished according to the laws and customs in such
cases at sea. e
A court-martial shall consist of at least three captains and three first lieuten-
ants, with three captains and three first lieutenants'of marines, if there shall be
so many of the marines then present, and the eldest captain shall preside.
All sea officers of the same denomination shall take rank of the officers of
marines.
Every member of a court-martial shall take the following oath, viz:
You swear that you will well and truly try, and
impartially determine the cause of the prisoner now to be tried, according to
the rules of the navy of the United Colonies. So help you God: which, ºath
shall be administered by the president to the other members, and the president
shall himself be sworn by the officer in said court next in rank.
All witnesses, before they may be admitted to give evidence, shall take the
following oath: * tº
“You swear the exidence you shall give, in the cause now in hearing, shall
be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.” So help you God.
The sentence of a court-martial for any capital offence, shall not be put in
execution, until it be confirmed by the commander in chief of the fleet; and
it shall be the duty of the president of every court-martial, to transmit tº the .
commander in chief of the fleet, every sentence which shall be given, with a
summary of the evidence and proceedings thereon, by the first opportunity.
The commander in chief of the fleet, for the time being, shall have power
to pardon and remit any sentence of death, that shall be given in consequen"
of any of the aforementioned articles. º *
There shall be allowed to each man serving on board the ships in theºry”
of the thirteen United Colonies, a daily proportion of provisions, according *.
is expressed in the following table, viz.
Journals OF CONGRESS, 1775. 189
Sunday, 1 lb. bread, 1 lb. beef, 1 lb. potatoes or turnips. *
Monday, 1 lb. bread, 1 lb. pork, half pint peas, and four ounces cheese.
Tuesday, 1 lb. bread, 1 lb. beef, 1 lb. potatoes or turnips, and pudding:
Wednesday, 1 lb. bread, two ounces butter, four ounces cheese, and half
pint of rice.
Thursday, 1 lb. bread, 1 lb. pork, and half pint of peas.
Friday, 1 lb. bread, 1 lb. beef, 1 lb. potatoes or turnips, and pudding.
Saturday, 1 lb. bread, 1 lb. pork, half pint peas, and four/ounces cheese.
Half pint of rum per man every day, and discretionary allowance on extra
duty, and in time of engagement.
A pint and half of vinegar for six men per week.
The pay of the officers and men shall be as follows”:

Captain or commander, 32 dollars, T Cooper, 15 dollars, T.
Lieutenants, ar 20 do. Captain's clerk, 15 do.
Master, 20 do. # Steward, 13 1-3 do. #
Mates, 15 do. 5 Chaplain, 20 do. 5
Boatswain, 15 do. F. Able seaman, 62-3 do. 3.
|Boatswain's first mate, ‘91-2 do. H Captain of marines, 262-3 do. :
Ditto, second ditto, 8 do. >3 Lieutenants, 18 do. >3
Gunner, 15 do. ,& Serjeants, 8 do. .9
Ditto mate, 10 1-3 do. Š Corporals, 7 1-3 do. §
Surgeon, 21 1-3 do. F- Fifer, 7 1-3 do. 3-4
Surgeon’s mate, 13 1-3 do. ă. Drummer, 7 1-3 do. 3.
Carpenter, 15 do. Privates or marines, 62-3 do.
Carpenter’s mate, 10 2-3 do. -
ORDERS OF CONGRESS.
We, whose hands and marks are hereunto set and subscribed, being officers,
seamen, and-marines, do, and each of us doth agree to and with
of the good ship, called the belonging to the thirteen United Colo-
nies of North America, in manner and form following, that is to say:
In the first place, we do hereby agree for, by and under the considerations
aftermentioned, to and with the said commander, forthwith to enter and ship
ourselves, and in due and seasonable time, to repair on board the said ship,
called the and during the term of months, to the utmost
of our power and ability respectively, to discharge our several services or sta-
tions, and in every thing to be conformable and obedient to the several re-
quirings and lawful commands of the said and his successors, in
command.
Secondly, We do also oblige and subject ourselves to serve on board the said
ship during the said cruize, and as she is a ship of war, we do severally oblige
ourselves by these articles, to comply with, and be subject to the rules and dis-
cipline of the American fleet, as established by the Congress, and to be gov-
erned and commanded in time of action with an enemy, according to the same
rules, and submit ourselves to the same punishments and penalties as are there
inflicted, in case we or any of us offer to desert our quarters, or not obey the
commands of the said or his successors in command, in giving
chase to any ship or ships, vessel or vessels, or otherwise, and if upon a scruti-
ny of our said or his said officers, we or any of us should
be found guilty of any breach contrary to the tenor of this agreement, or any
act of cowardice, we do hereby severally submit and agree to allow and forfeit
our several and respective shares of and in any prize or prizes, we shall then
have taken, to be divided amongst the said ship’s company.
Thirdly, We do also severally agree and oblige ourselves, that when any
prize or prizes have been taken, to follow the express directions of the said
or his successors, in boarding the said prize, and be under the
command of any officer whom the said shall appoint, and be
*See 13th and 19th of December, 1775.
*th
190 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
assisting to him to carry the said prize to whatever port or ports such prize or
prizes shall be assigned by the said And we do hereby further
severally agree and covenant in that case, to be true and faithful in discharge
of our duty and trust, and will not, in any shape, embezzle, defraud, or plun-
der any thing on board such prize or prizes; and in case any or either of us
shall be found guilty of any breach contrary to the true meaning of this agree-
ment, we, and such of us being guilty thereof, do hereby severally submit and
agree to allow so much of all and every of our shares, and . of our shares of and
in the said prize or prizes then or thence after to be taken, and of all our re-
spective wages, that then shall be due and coming to us, in respect to our ser-
vices, as shall make good such plunder and embezzlement, we shall have been
found guilty of.
Fourthly, And it is also further agreed to be the true intent and meaning of
all parties hereto, that the officer or officers, or any of the ship’s company
sent on board any prize, shall have as good a share and interest of any prize
that shall be thereafter taken, during his or their absence, as if he or they had
been on board the said vessel, at the time of taking thereof, anything herein
contained to the contrary notwithstanding. Provided always, and it is hereby
agreed to be the meaning of the said last mentioned clause, that if the said
officer or officers, and such of the said ship’s company, to whom the conduct
and management of any prize has been entrusted, do not (firsthaving accepted
the commands of the said commander concerning the said prize under his or
their custody) immediately repair to the respective port or harbor where the
said or his successors in command shall order, or do not proceed with
the said prize or prizes so taken, to the respective port or ports to be assigned
by the said for the time being, that then, and in failure of any or
either of the agreements aforesaid, contained on our parts, we and each and every
of us so offending, do hereby severally submit and agree to be cashiered, not only
for our several and respective interests and shares of and in the capture of prize-
money, but totally to be excluded and divested from the payment of any wages
then due us, for and in respect of our several services on board the said ship
and the interest and shares of such delinquents, that otherwise
would have accrued to us.
Fifthly, And the said for and in behalf of himself and the thir-
teen United Colonies of North America, do hereby covenant and agree to and
with the said officers, seamen, and marines, whose names or marks are hereto
set and subscribed, to pay them in consideration of such services, so much
amoney per month, as in a schedule, here-under mentioned, is set opposite to
the names or marks of each respective officer, seaman, or landman; and like-
wise to advance to each and every of them, one month’s pay at cntrance,
(due security for the same being first given) the receipt whereof they do here-
by acknowledge.
Sixthly, And as an encouragement to exert the valor of the seamen and
marines in defending the said ship, and in subduing and distressing the said
enemy, the said for and on behalf of the thirteen United Colonies
of North-America, doth further covenant, promise, and agree to and with all
and every the officers, seamen and marines, parties hereto, that in case any
prize or prizes shall be taken by the said ship, during the intended cruize, that
the same shall be proceeded against, and distributed according to the resolu-
tions of Congress.
Seventhly, And it is by these presents mutually agreed and consented to, by,
and between the said and every the officers, seamen, and marines,
parties hereto, that in case the commander, for the time being, lose a limb, in
an engagement, or be otherwise disabled, so as to be rendered *: after-
wards of getting a livelihood to subsist upon, he shall receive out of the nett pro-
fits of such prize or prizes, or prize-goods, if so much arise, before dividend or
f

JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 191
distribution be declared, the sum of four hundred dollars; or if he lose his
life, his widow or children (if any) shall receive the said bounty of four
hundred dollars, together with all prize-money to him belonging at the time
of his decease. And if the captain of marines, or any other commission
or warrant officer lose a limb, or be otherwise disabled, so as to be rendered
incapable afterwards of getting a subsistence, he or they so disabled, shall re-
ceive a bounty of three hundred dollars, if so much arise from the nett profits
as aforesaid ; and in case of death, the widow or children, (if any) is, are, and
shall be entitled to the same, together with their share of prize-money due at
the time of their decease. And if an inferior officer, seaman, or marine, lose
a limb, or be otherwise disabled, so as to be rendered incapable afterwards of
. a subsistence, he or they shall receive a bounty of 200 dollars, to be
educted as aforesaid ; and in case of death, his widow or children, (if any)
is, are, and shall be entitled to the same, together with his share of prize-mo-
ney due at the time of his decease.
He who first discovers a ship or vessel which shall afterwards become a
prize, shall be entitled to a double share of such prize.
There shall be ten shares of every prize, which shall be taken and condemn-
ed, set apart to be given to such inferior officers, seamen and marines, as shall
be adjudged best to deserve them by the superior officers, who shall be ap-
pointed to make such determination. *
He who shall first board a ship or other vessel, making resistance, which
shall become a prize, shall be entitled to a triple share.
Provided always, and it is hereby declared to be the true intent and meaning
of the parties to the aforementioned articles and orders, that any of the offi.
cers, seamen, and marines, shall be liable to be removed by the Congress or
committee of the Congress, during the recess thereof, or by the commander in
chief of the American fleet, for the time being, from the aforesaid vessel to any
other armed vessel in the service of the United Colonies, any thing contained
in the foregoing orders and articles notwithstanding. .
The Congress then took into consideration the report of the committee on
North-Carolina: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the two battalions which the Congress directed to be raised
in the colony of North-Carolina, be increased to the continental establishment,
and kept in pay at the expense of the United Colonies for one year from this
time, or until the farther order of Congress, as well for the purpose of defend-
ing the good people of that colony against the attacks of ministerial oppression,
as assisting the adjacent colonies.
That application be made to the councils of safety of the colonies of Penn-
Sylvania and South-Carolina, for so much gun-powder as can be spared for the
immediate supply of North-Carolina. *
Resolved, That the delegates of the colony of North Carolina be directed to
purchase a number of drums, fifes and colors, suitable for the said battalions,
and that the president be directed to draw on the continental treasurers for a
sum not exceeding three hundred dollars for the payment thereof.
That the convention or committee of safety of North-Carolina be desired to
employ, immediately, all the gun-smiths in that colony, in the making of mus-
kets and bayonets, of the size and in the manner recommended by Congress
the 4th of this inst. November. *
That two ministers of the gospel be applied to, to go immediately amongst
the regulators and highlanders in the colony of North-Carolina, for the purpose
of informing them of the nature of the present dispute between Great Britain
and the colonies; that the gentlemen to be employed be allowed forty dollars
a month for their services, and that the delegates of the said colony be em-
Powered to apply to and procure persons proper for this business.
That it be recommended to the convention or committee of safety of North-
Carolina, in case the method of defending the said colony by minute men bein-
§
192 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
&
adequate to the purpose, to substitute such other mode as to them shall appear
most likely to effect the security of that colony.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress took into consideration the
report of the committee on the memorials of the tea-holders, and the same be-
ing debated,
On the question put to agree to it,
Carried in the negative. w
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, November 29, 1775.
A letter from general Schuyler, by express, being received, was read, con-
taining an account of the continental troops, under brigadier general Montgo-
mery, having taken possession of Montreal on the 12th inst.
The committee to whom was referred the petition of Downham Newton,
brought in their report, which was taken into consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the said Downham Newton be permitted to export on board
|his vessel, on the terms proposed in his petition, such provisions of pork and
flour as he shall think proper. N
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the
state of the treasury, and thereupon came to the following resolution :
Resolved, That bills of credit be emitted by Congress to the amount of three
millions of dollars.
That the committee on the state-of the treasury be directed to consult the
printer, and report the numbers and denominations of the bills to be emitted,
and that they contract for proper paper for printing the said bills. }
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to the agents, brought in the
sāme, which being read and debated, was agreed to.
Ordered, That a fair copy be made, signed and forwarded.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed for the sole purpose of cor-
º; with our friends in Great Britain, Ireland, and other parts of the
world, and that they lay their correspondence before Congress when directed.
Resolved, That Congress will make provision to defray all such expenses as
may arise by carrying on such a correspondence, and for the payment of such
agents as they may send on this service.’ *
The members chosen, Mr. Harrison, Dr. Franklin, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Dick-
inson, and Mr. Jay. *
The committee on the proclamations brought in their report, which was read,
and ordered to lie on the table for the perusal of the members.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, JVovember 30, 1775.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to revise the journal of last session
be directed to revise the journal of the present, in order to its being printed ;
and that it be an instruction to the said committee, to examine whether it will
yet be proper to publish any of those parts omitted in the journal of last ses-
S}OI! . **, gº *
Resolved, That Mr. Wythe"be added to the said committee in the room of
Mr. J. Rutledge, who is absent. *
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare letters of
thanks to the three general officers in the northern department for their ser-
W1CéS,
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. W. Livingston, and Mr. Jay.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of general Washington’s let-
ter, and thereupon came to the following resolutions: *
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 193
resolved, That the general be directed to suspend the raising the two bat-
talions of marines out of his present army.
That the two battalions .Pmarines be raised, independent of the army alrea-
dy ordered for the service in Massachusetts-Bay.
That no bounty be allowed to the army on re-inlistment. º
Sundry letters from general Schuyler, W. Livingston, esq. and the commit-
tee sent to the northward, being received, were read. …”
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the general’s letter and the
other matters to this day referred, be postponed till to-morrow.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, December 1, 1775.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the letter from general Wash-
ington, ; Whereupon, º
Resolved, That the 500,000 dollars lately ordered, be forwarded, with all
possible expedition, to general Washington, that he may be enabled to pay such
soldiers as will re-inlist, for the succeeding year, the wages for their months
of October, November and December, and also advance them one month's
aW.
#hat the governments of New-England be informed of the resolution of
Congress relative to the pay ordered to be made and advanced to the army,
and be desired to promote the recruiting service in the present army, as well
as in their several colonies.
A letter from the committee of Frederick-Town, in Maryland, was re-
ceived and read, containing an account of their having apprehended major
Connolly and his associates, and desiring the advice of Congress with regard
to the prisoners. -
Resolved, That the said letters, with the Papers enclosed, be referred to the
delegates of Virginia. ł
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the general’s letter, and the
other matters to this day referred, be postponed till to-morrow.
Adjourned to ten o’clock-to-morrow.
SATURDAY, December 2, 1775.
A letter from the committee of Northampton, in Virginia, with sundry papers
enclosed, was received and read.
Resolved, That the same be referred to the committee on the state of
Virginia. **
Resolved, That Mr. Paca be added to that committee in the room of Mr.
Johnson, who is absent.
Resolved, That the naval committee be directed to confer with captain
Stone, and engage him and his vessel, on the most reasonable terms, in the
service of the continent, for the purpose of taking or destroying the cutters and
armed vessels in Cheasapeake-Bay, under lord Dunmore.
• Resolved, That colonel Harrison do immediately proceed to Maryland, and
be empowered with the delegates of that colony, or any one or more of them,
to take such measures, as appear to them most effectual to procure, with all
Possible despatch, two or three armed vessels to cruize on, take or destroy
armed vessels, cutters, and ships of war of the enemy, that may be found in
the bay of Chesapeake, or coasts of Virginia and Maryland.
Whereas, designs are formed by certain ministerial partizans in the counties
of Norfolk and Princess-Ann, and some other parts of Virginia, on Chesa-
Peške-Bay, under the influence of lord Dunmore,to contraven: the non-expor-
*** *śeement, by exporting provisions and other produce of that country
to the Wººlmie islands, and thereby injure the interest and weaken
OL. 1. 25
194 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
the efforts of the United Colonies, in opposing the present oppressive system
of the British ministry,
Resolved, That the said armed vessels be authorized and directed to seize
and detain, until the further order of this Congress, all such ships and vessels
as they may find employed in such exportations from the places aforesaid.
Resolved, That the naval committee be directed to employ the armed sloop,
commanded by captain Abraham Whipple, of Rhode-Island, now on a voyage
to this port, and despatch her forthwith to aid the marine business to the
southward. -
That the said committee be directed to prepare a proper commission for the
captains or commanders of the ships of war in the service of the United
Colonies.
Resolved, That the colonel, or commanding officer of the battalion, now in
the barracks at Philadelphia, be ordered to keep a regular guard over the ships
and stores belonging to the United Colonies, at or on the wharves, or in the
stores on the wharves of Messrs. Willing and Morris, and Mr. Cuthbert.
The assembly of New-Jersey having, by a resolution of their house, accept-
ed the resignation of two of their delegates, and confirmed the other three,
and, by another resolution, enlarged their power, the said resolutions were laid
before Congress and read as follows:
“NEw-JERSEY, House of Assembly, JVovember 22, 1775.
The house, taking into consideration the request of Jame Kinsey and John
De Hart, esqrs. two of the delegates, appointed by this house to attend the
Continental Congress, for leave to resign their said appointment,
Itesolved, That the reasons given by those gentlemen for their resignation,
appear to this house to be.satisfactory, and that their resignation therefore be
accepted; thereupon,
Resolved, That the three remaining delegates, or any two of them, represent
the colony during the present continental Congress.
THURSDAY, JVovember 30, 1775.
The house, taking into consideration the inconveniences arising from requir-
ing the attendance of two of the delegates to represent the colony in the Con-
tinental Congress, ºw
Resolved, That . one of the three delegates appointed to attend the
Congress be, and such delegate is hereby fully authorized to represent this
colony during Congress.
A true copy from the votes,
RICHARD SMITH, Clerk of Assembly.”
The committee appointed to prepare the form of a commission, reported the
same, which was read and agreed to.
Ordered, That three hundred copies be immediately. printed, with proper
blanks.
Application being made in behalf of captain Jenkins, for leave to export a
quantity of provisions to the island of Nantucket, for the internal consump-
tion of its inhabitants, and it being represented that he had applied to the assembly
or general court of Massachusetts-Bay, and that the committee of Falmouth,
to whom he was by them referred, not having it in their power to furnish the
provisions wanted, had recommended him to Čongress to be supplied with the
same at some port in the middle or southern colonies. w
Resolved, That permission be granted to captain Jenkins, to carry the provi-
sions specified in the certificate of the committee of Falmouth, for the internal
consumption of the inhabitants of Nantucket, he first taking an oath, and giving
bond to the committee of inspection and observation, for the city and liberties
of Philadelphia, to pursue their instructions in his voyage, and to use his ut-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 195
---
most endeavors not to fall into the power of the cutters or armed vessels of
the enemy. -
The committee on the state of the treasury brought in a report, which was
read: Whereupon, y
Resolved, That the number and denominations of the bills ordered to be
emitted, be as follows: W.
83,334 of 8 dollars each, 83,334 of 4 dollars each.
/ 83,333 of 7 do. 83,333 of 3 do.
83,333 of 6 do. 83,333 of 2 do.
83,333 of 5 do. 83,333 of 1 do.
Itesolved, That the plates used in the last emission, be used for striking off
and printing the above bills.
Itesolved, That the gentlemen who superintended the press at the last emis-
sion, be empowered to superintend the printing these bills.
Resolved, That the committee on the state of the treasury, be directed to
3. about proper persons to sign and number said bills, and report to
OſlººteSS. \
The Congress resumed the consideration of the general’s letter: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the regiment of artillery consist of one colonel, two lieute-
nant-colonels, two majors and twelve companies.
That the general be informed that two gentlemen, namely, Thomas Crafts,
jun. and George Trott, esqrs. have been recommended to Congress as proper
persons for field officers in said regiment, and that the general enquire into
their characters and abilities; and if, upon enquiry, he shall judge them proper,
and that the appointment of them will occasion no disturbance or disgust in
the regiment, that he appoint them, and acquaint Congress thereof.
Resolved, That it be an instruction to the committee appointed to contract
for supplying the prisoners, that Mr. D. Franks, of this city, be permitted to
supply the troops, who are prisoners in this colony, with provisions and other
necessaries, at the expense of the crown, and to sell his bills for such sums of
money as are necessary for that purpose, and that the said committee confer
with Mr. Franks, and enquire whether he will also undertake, on the same
terms, to supply the prisoners in other colonies.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee o
conference: Whereupon, *
Resolved, That it be recommended to the assembly, or general court of the
colony of Massachusetts-Bay, to use all the means in their power, that the
army before Boston be supplied with wood and hay, on the most reasonable
term S.
That in the new establishment of the army, the general officers be not al-
lowed regiments, nor the field officers companies.
That all persons taken in arms on board any prize, be deemed prisoners at
the disposal of the general, whether the prize be taken by vessels fitted out in
the pay of the continent or by others. ?
That such as are taken be treated as prisoners of war, but with humanity,
and be allowed the same rations as the troops in the service of the continent;
that the officers being in pay should supply themselves with clothes, their bills
to be taken for the same, that the soldiers be furnished as they now are.
That as the new army in Massachusetts-Bay is calculated to oppose the army
at Boston, it is not expected that the º should detach any part of it to
New-York or elsewhere, unless it appear to him necessary so to do, for the
common safety.
That the troops in the new army be paid monthly.
That an exchange of prisoners will be proper, citizens for citizens, officers
for officers of equal rank, and soldier for soldier.
That,ensign Moland be detained in the place where he now is, until ex-
changed.
196 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
That this Congress approve the terms on which the artificers of different
sorts have been employed in the army; and that the general go on upon the
present agreement, as being the best that can probably be made.
That the general be directed to pick out from each of the rifle companies,
such as are not marksmen, and dismiss them in such manner as will be safest,
with an allowance of pay to go home, if they do not chuse to inlist in other
battalions, and, in the mean time, that all receive their pay.
That what artillery of different kinds can be spared from New-York and
Crown-Point, be procured and forwarded to the army before Boston.
That the Indians of St. Francis, Penobscot, Stockbridge, and St. John’s,
and other tribes, may be called on in case of real necessity, and that the giving
them presents is suitable and proper.
That a committee of three be appointed to devise the best mode of having
expresses (persons of character) posted along the roads at different distances,
for the purpose of conveying early and frequent intelligence. *
The members chosen, Dr. Franklin, Mr. Lewis, and Mr. Deane.
That as much lead as can be spared from the northern department, and is
ſº at the camp at Cambridge, be sent down from Ticonderoga to Cam-
ridge. ~, W.
That the Congress approve the general's fitting out armed vessels to inter-
cept the enemy’s supplies.
That when the army receives such supplies of powder as to be enabled to
spare some to the country, that it be sold to them at a reasonable price.
That the secret committee be directed to enquire what articles are neces-
ë. for the use of the army, and how they may be procured, and report to
Oſlº TeSS.
bºa, That the resolutions passed on the general’s letters, and on the
report of the committee of conference, and such other resolutions as relate to
, the establishment of the new army, not already forwarded, be sent by express
to the general. l
The Congress being informed that Mr. Eathan Allen, who was taken pri-
soner near Montreal, is confined in irons on board a vessel in the river St.
Lawrence,
Resolved, That general Washington be directed to apply to general Howe
on this matter, and desire that he may be exchanged.
The several matters to this day referred being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, December 4, 1775.
The committee, to whom the accounts from Massachusetts-Bay were re-
ferred, reported, that for want of proper vouchers, they were not able to pro-
ceed on . business, and therefore desired to be discharged.
Resolved, That the said committee, upon their request, be discharged.
Resolved, That the sum of forty thousand dollars be advanced to the colony
of New-Hampshire, on account of expenses by them incurred, the said colony
to be accountable.
Resolved, That the sum of four hundred and forty-three thousand, three
hundred and thirty-three dollars and one-third of a dollar, be paid to the colo-
ny of Massachusetts-Bay, in part of their account, the said colony to be
accountable,
C Resolved, That the said sums be paid out of the emission last ordered by ,
Oſlº reSS. 3.
The committee on the state of Virginia, to whom were referred the letters
received on Saturday last, brought in their report, which was taken into con-
sideration : Whereupon, -
Resolved, That three companies of the battalion raised in the colony of Penn-
sylvania, immediately march under the command of lieutenant-colonel Irvine,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 197
into Northampton county, is Virginia, for the protection of the association in
those parts, and for the defence thereof against the designs of the enemies of . ,
America. t
Resolved, That it be and it is hereby recommended to the inhabitants of the
colony of Virginia, to resist to the utmost the arbitrary government intended
to be established therein, by their governor lord Dunmore, as manifestly ap-
pears by the whole tenor of his lordship's conduct for some months past.
Whereas lord Dunmore, by his proclamation lately published, has declared
his intention to execute martial law, thereby tearing up the foundations of
civil authority and government within the said colony:
Resolved, Therefore, that if the convention of Virginia shall find it neces-
sary to establish a form of government in that colony, it be recommended to
that convention to call a full and free representation of the people, and that
the said representatives, if they think it necessary, establish such form of go-
vernment as in their judgment will best produce the happiness of the people,
and most effectually secure peace and good order in the colony, during the
continuance of the present dispute between Great-Britain and the colonies.
Resolved, That the committee on the state of Virginia have leave, at their
request, to sit again.
Resolved, That in the present situation of affairs, it will be very dangerous
to the liberties and welfare of America, if any colony should separately peti-
tion the king or either house of parliament.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to confer with the assem-
bly of New-Jersey.
The members chosen, Mr. Dickinson, Mr. Wythe, and Mr. Jay.
"Resolved, That Carlisle, in the colony of Pennsylvania, be assigned as well
as the three towns of Reading, Lancaster and York, for the reception of the
prisoners taken at St. John’s.
Resolved, That the president write to Mr. Knox, by the first express to Alba-
iny, and desire him, in case the services he is upon will admit, to repair to the
fortresses on Hudson’s river, in the highlands, inspect the state of the works
carrying on there, and the situation of the places adjacent, and transmit an
account thereof to Congress.
The delegates of Massachusetts-Bay laid before Congress a resolution of
the general court of that colony, passed in November last, extending the com-
mission of their delegates to the last day of January ; which was read.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, December 5, 1775.
Resolved, That the naval committee be instructed to engage the seamen
. marines to the first of January, 1777, unless sooner discharged by
ongress.
It being suggested that the resolution of Congress, passed the 2d instant,
relative to captain Jenkins, was grounded on a mistake with regard to facts,
. Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to take the matter into con-
sideration, enquire into facts, and report to Congress.
The members chosen, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Cushing, and Mr. M'Kean.
The committee of claims applying for instructions with regard to sundry
charges in the accounts laid before them from the colony of Rhode Island,
Resolved, That the charge for purchasing and repairing arms be not allowed.
, That the expense of removing the stock from Block-Island and other places,
in cºnsequence of the request of the general, be charged to the continent. ,
, That the twelve cannon furnished to the army in the camp at Cambridge, by
the government of Rhode-Island, be allowed in their accounts.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of this matter be deferred till to-
Ill Orl'OW, * #
198 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, iſ 75.
^
Resolved, That those who supply the three companies ordered to Northamp-
ton with arms, shall either have the same returned in kind as soon as they can
be procured, or their value paid for by the United Colonies, the value of which
is to be deducted from the pay of the soldiers.
A letter from lord Sterling, with sundry papers enclosed, was laid before
Congress and read.
Resolved, That the naval committee has liberty to purchase duck and such
other articles as they may want for fitting out said vessels, and to enable them
the better to perform this service, that they be empowered to take to their as-
sistance the committee of the city and liberties of Philadelphia. ^
Resolved, That the form of the bills ordered to be emitted be as follows:
CONTINENTAL CURRENCY.
No. Dollar
This bill entitles the bearer to receive Spanish milled
dollars, or the value thereof in gold or silver, according to a resolution of
Congress passed at Philadelphia, November 29, 1775.
Resolved, That each denomination or class of bills be numbered, beginning
with one, upwards, in ink of a different color from the last emitted bills.
- The committee on re-captures brought in their report, which being read and
debated, the Congress came to the following resolution:
Resolved, That, in cases of recaptures, the re-captors have and retain, in lieu
of salvage, one-eighth part of the true value of the vessel and cargo, or either
of them, if the same hath or have been in possession of the enemy twenty-four
hours; one-fifth part, if more than twenty-four hours, and less than forty-eight
hours; one-third part, if more than forty-eight and less than ninety-six hours;
and one half, if more than ninety-six hours, unless the vessel shall, after the
capture, have been legally condemned as a prize by some court of admiral-
ty, in which case the re-captors to have the whole; in all which cases the
share detained, or prize to be divided between the owners of the ship making
the re-capture, the colony or the continent, as the case may be, and the captors,
agreeable to a former resolution.
Resolved, As the army to the northward is likely to be supplied with cloth-
ing at Montreal, that the clothing purchased for the said army, and sent to Al-
bany, be forwarded by land to Mr. Mifflin, quarter-master general, for the use
of the army before Boston.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.,
WEDNESDAY, December 6, 1775.
The committee of claims reported that there is due to Robert Ervin for wa-
gon hire, the sum of 355.7 dollars. &
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Resolved, That the three prisoners taken by captain A. Whipple, in his pas-
sage to Philadelphia, who are now on board his vessel, be delivered to the com-
mittee of safety of the º of Pennsylvania, who are directed to secure them
in safe custody in some gaol in said colony.
A return being laid before Congress of the number of flints for sale in the
city of Philadelphia, amounting to upwards of 200,000,
Resolved, That the committee of inspection of the city and liberties of Phi-
ladelphia be desired to purchase said #. for the use of the United Colonies,
and that in making the purchase, attention be paid to that part of the associa-
tion against raising the prices of goods. #
The Congress resumed the consideration of the instructions to be given to the
committee of claims, and on the question put,
Resolved, That the charge for bounty in the account exhibited by Rhode-Is-
land against the United Colonies be not allowed.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 199
—-º
The committee, to whom the petition of Dugal McGregor was referred,
brought in their report, which being read, was agreed to as follows, viz.
Resolved, That the circumstances stated in the said petition will not justify
a license to export the lumber and naval stores mentioned in the said petition,
contrary to the rules of American association.
#. That if the said Dugal McGregor will give bond, with sufficient
security, in a penalty of double the value of the said lumber and naval stores,
to the president of the provincial council of North-Carolina, with conditions
that he will not carry the said cargo to Great-Britain, Ireland, Guernsey, Jer-
sey, Sark, Aldernay, Man, or any European island or settlement within the
British dominions, nor to the British West-Indies; and that he shall, within
six months after exporting the same, import into Edenton, Newbern, or Bogue
Inlet, in the colony of North-Carolina, and there deliver to the commander of
the continental troops in the said colony, such quantity of muskets, or gun-pow-
der, as shall be equal to the value of the said lumber and naval stores, the pub-
lic interest requires that he be permitted to export the same, and that a permit
for that purpose, signed by the said president, be given him on his executing
such bond as aforesaid.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on
proclamations, which being debated by paragraphs, was agreed to as follows:
We, the delegates of the thirteen United Colonies in North-America, have
taken into our most serious consideration, a proclamation issued from the court
of St. James’s on the twenty-third day of August last. The name of majesty
is used to give it a sanction and influence; and, on that account, it becomes
a matter of importance to wipe off, in the name of the people of these United
Colonies, the aspersions which it is calculated to throw upon our cause; and
to prevent, as far as possible, the undeserved punishments, which it is designed
to prepare for our friends. We are accused of “forgetting the allegiance
which we owe to the power that has protected and sustained us.” Why all
this ambiguity and obscurity in what ought to be so plain and obvious, as that
he who runs may read it? What allegiance is it that we forget P Allegiance
to parliament? We never owed—we never owned it. Allegiance to our king?
Our words have ever avowed it, our conduct has ever been consistent with it.
We condemn, and with arms in our hands,--a resource which freemen will
never part with, we oppose the claim and exercise of unconstitutional powers,
to which neither the crown nor parliament were ever entitled. By the British
constitution, our best inheritance, rights, as well as duties, descend upon us:
We cannot violate the latter by defending the former: we should act in dia-
metrical opposition to both, if we permitted the claims of the British parlia-
ment to be established, and the measures pursued in consequence of those
claims to be carried into execution among us. Our sagacious ancestors pro-
vided wounds against the inundation of tyranny and lawless power on one side,
as well as against that of faction and licentiousness on the other. On which
side has the breach been made Is it objected against us by the most invet-
erate and the most uncandid of our enemies, that we have opposed any of the
just prerogatives of the crown, or any legal exertion of those prerogatives?
Why then are we accused of forgetting our allegiance? we have performed
our duty: We have resisted in those cases, in which the right to resist is stip-
ulated as expressly on our part, as the right to govern is, in other cases, stipu-
lated on the part of the crown. The breach of allegiance is removed from our
resistance as far as tyranny is removed from legal government. It is alleged,
that “we have proceeded to an open and avowed rebellion.” In what does
this rebellion consist. It is thus described—“Arraying ourselves in hostile
manner, to withstand the execution of the law, and traiterously preparing, or-
dering, and levying war against the king.” We know of no laws binding on
us, but such as have been transmitted to us by our ancestors, and such as have
ss=-
200 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
ºr- *
been consented to by ourselves, or our representatives elected for that pur-
ose. What laws, stampt with these characters, have we withstood P. We have
indeed defended them; and we will risque every thing, do every thing, and
suffer every thing in their defence. To support our laws, and our liberties
established by our laws, we have prepared, ordered, and levied war. But is
this traitorously, or against the king? We view him as the constitution repre-
sents him. That tells us he can do no wrong. The cruel and illegal attacks,
which we oppose, have no foundation in the royal authority. We will not, on
our part, lose the distinction between the king and his ministers: happy would
it have been for some former princes, had it always been preserved on that
part of the crown.
Besides all this, we observe, on this part of the proclamation, that “rebel-
lion” is a term undefined and unknown in the law; it might have been ex-
pected that a proclamation, which by the British constitution has no other
operation than merely that of enforcing what is already law, would have had
a known legal basis to have rested upon. A correspondence between the in-
habitants of Great Britain and their brethren in America, produced, in better
times, much satisfaction to individuals, and much advantage to the public.
By what criterion shall one, who is unwilling to break off this correspondence,
and is, at the same time, anxious not to expose himself to the dreadful conse-
quences threatened in this proclamation—by what criterion shall he regulate
his conduct? He is admonished not to carry on correspondence with the per-
sons now in rebellion in the colonies. How shall he ascertain ‘who are in re-
bellion, and who are not?” ... He consults the law to learn the nature of the sup-
posed crime : the law is silent upon the subject. This, in a country where it
has been often said, and formerly with justice, that the government is by law,
and not by men, might render him perfectly easy. But proclamations have
been sometimes dangerous engines in the hands of those in power; informa-
tion is commanded to be given to one of the secretaries of state, of all per-
sons “who shall be found carrying on correspondence with the persons in re-
bellion, in order to bring to condign punishment the authors, perpetrators, or
abettors, of such dangerous designs.” Let us suppose, for a moment, that some
persons in the colonies are in rebellion, and that those who carry on corres-
pondence with them, might learn by some rule, which Britons are bound to
know, how to discriminate them, does it follow that all correspondence with
them deserves to be punished? It might have been intended to apprize them
of their danger, and to reclaim them from their crimes. By what law does a
correspondence with a criminal transfer or communicate his guilt? We know
that those who aid and adhere to the king’s enemies, and those who corres-
pond with them in order to enable them to carry their designs into effect, are
criminal in the eye of the law. But the law goes no farther, Can proclama-
tions, according to the principles of reason and justice, and the constitution,
go farther than the law ^.
But, perhaps the principles of reason and justice, and the constitution will
not prevail: experience suggests tous the doubt. If they should not, we must
resort to arguments drawn from a very different source. We, therefore, in the
name of the people of these United Colonies, and by authority, according to
the purest maxims of representation, derived from them, declare, that what-
ever punishment shall be inflicted upon any persons in the power of our
enemies for favouring, aiding, or abetting the cause of American liberty, shall
be retaliated in the same kind, and the same degree upon those in our power,
who have favoured, aided, or abetted, or shall favour, aid, or abet the system of
ministerial oppression. The essential difference between our cause, and that
of our enemies, might justify a severer punishment: the law of retaliation will
unquestionably warrant one equally severe. t
We mean not, however, by this declaration, to occasion or to multiply pun:
ishments: our sole view is to prevent them. In this unhappy and unnatural
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 201
*-
controversy, in which Britons fight against Britons, and the descendants of
Britons, let the calamities immediately incident to a civil war suffice. We
hope additions will not from wantonness be made to them on one side ; we shall
regret the necessity, if laid under the necessity, of making them on the
other.
Ordered, That the above be published.
A memorial from cºlonel Bull, was presented to Congress and read.
Resolved, That the same be taken into consideration on Friday next.
Resolved, That lieutenant Feltham, have leave to join the officers of the
26th regiment, and reside with them in the places destined for their recep-
tion.
Itesolved, That major Preston, and the officer with him, remain in Philadel-
phia until farther orders from Congress. - º
Ordered, That the president inform major Preston of this resolution.
A letter from general Washington, dated 28th November, being received,
was read. * -**
Resolved, That the same be taken into consideration to-morrow morning.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, December 7, 1775.
The Congress, being informed that the women and children taken at St.
John’s, with the baggage, were arrived,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the committee of safety of the colony
of Pennsylvania, to have them removed in the cheapest manner, at the expense
of the United Colonies, to the places assigned them.
Resolved, That lieutenant George Cuppaidge, of the 26th regiment, be per-
mitted to go to New-York for a week upon his parole, that he will neither speak
nor write to any person upon any political subject, or give any intelligence
* upon such topics, and will return to Philadelphia at the end of the
Week. * *
A letter from lord Sterling dated the 6th, was received and read.
The Congress, taking into consideration the general’s letter of the 28th ult.
came to the following resolutions: -
Whereas doubts may arise respecting the true intent and construction of a
certain resolution of Congress, passed the 4th day of November last, empow-
ering the general, in case the necessity of the service should require it, to call
forth the minute-men and militia of the New-England colonies,
Resolved, "That the said resolution shall not extend or be construed to au-
thorize the general to call forth the said minute-men or militia, without having
applied to and obtained the consent of those officers, in whom the executive
powers of government in those colonies may be vested.
Resolved, That the president write letters to the council of Massachusetts-
º the convention of New-Hampshire, and the governors of Rhode-Island
and Connecticut, acquainting them with the present state of the army, and en-
closing copies of the resolutions of this Congress, relative to the general’s
being empowered to call forth the militia of those governments, on any emer-
gency, and requesting those colonies to exert themselves in defence of our
common liberties, by affording the general all the aid in their power, and com-
ply with his request for the assistance of the militia whenever he may find it
necessary to apply for it.
A letter from general Schuyler of the 22d of November, together with a
copy of a letter from general Montgomery of the 17th, and one from colonel
Arnold of the 14th of the same month, being received, were read.
The several matters to this day referred being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow.
SS VoI. I. w 26
*
$202 jQURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
FRIDAY, December 8, 1775. \
The committee, to whom the petition of captain Jenkins was referred,
brought in their report, which was read.
The committee to whom the letter from the committee of inspection of the
county of Frederick, in Maryland, relative to Allen Cameron, John Smith, and
John Connolly, with the papers enclosed, was referred, brought in their report,
which being taken into consideration,
Resolved, That the said Allen Cameron, John Smith, and John Connolly, be
confined in prison at Philadelphia, at the continental expense, until the further
order of Congress.
Ordered, That the president transmit a copy of the above resolution to the
committee of Frederick, and desire them, in pursuance thereof, to send the
prisoners under guard to Philadelphia.
º, That the petition of Jonathan Hudson, be referred to a committee
of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Penn, and Mr. R. Morris.
The Congress, taking into consideration the letters from lord Sterling, came
to the following resolutions:
Resolved, That Mr. Thomas Lowry be appointed to supply the battalions
raised in New-Jersey, with the rations and other necessaries allowed them,
31-360 of a dollar per ration.
Resolved, That Mr. Crane be directed to give Mr. Lowry proper orders for
securing, for the use of the battalions raised in New-Jersey, the blankets in
the barracks of that colony.
Resolved, That the companies of the two battalions raised in New-Jersey,
not already ordered to the fort on Hudson’s river, in the highlands, in the co-
lony of New-York, be, and they are hereby ordered to march, as soon as they
can be furnished with barrack-necessaries and arms, to the city of New-York,
and there remain till further orders; and that four of the companies ordered
to the fort in the highlands, be likewise stationed in the city of New-York, till
barracks can be fitted up for them in that fort.
Resolved, That a surgeon be allowed to each battalion, in the service of the
United Colonies; and that his pay be 25 dollars per calendar month.
Whereupon, William Barnet, jun. was elected surgeon to lord Sterling’s, or
the first battalion raised in New-Jersey.
Resolved, That a standing committee, composed of a member from each
colony, be appointed to receive the applications, and examine into the qualifica-
tions of the several persons, who apply for offices in the American army, and
report to Congress. *
The members are, Mr. Bartlett, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. Ward, Mr. Dyer, Mr.
Jay, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Allen, Mr. Rodney, Mr. F. L. Lee, Mr. Penn,
and Mr. Lynch.
Resolved, That the part of lord Sterling’s letter, which respects the arrest-
. and imprisoning soldiers for small sums, be referred to a committee of
three. ,
The members chosen, Mr. Jay, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. W. Livingston. |
Resolved, That Mr. Bedford, the deputy muster-master general, who is now
in town, be directed to muster the battalion raised in Pennsylvania, and make
return to Congress as soon as possible. ,
The committee on establishing expresses, brought in their report, which
was read. y
Ordered, That the letter from general Schuyler, with the enclosed letters
from general Montgomery and colonel Arnold, be published.
The several matters to this day referred, being farther postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 203
F Tº SATURDAY, December 9, 1775. -
Resolved, That the committee appointed to fit out armed vessels, be em-
powered to employ the following officers, and that their pay be as follows, viz.
Midshipman, 12 dollars per calendar month, Quarter-master, 9 dollars per calendar month.
Armourer, 15 do. do. Quarter-gunner,8 do. do.
Sail-maker, 12 do. do. Cook, 12 do. do.
Yeoman, 9 do. do. Coxswain, 9 do. do.
Pilot according to the usual rates; when absolutely necessary, the com-
mander to give such farther gratuity as may be necessary for the good of the
Service.
Resolved, That an order issue for raising four battalions more in the colony
of Pennsylvania, on the same terms as the one already raised.
Resolved, That a like order issue for raising one battalion in the lower coun-
ties on Delaware, on the same terms as those ordered to be raised in Pennsyl-
Wall 13,
The Congress took into consideration the letters from general Schuyler,
from the 11th of November inclusive, and thereupon came to the following
resolutions:
Resolved, That the orders given to general Montgomery, to purchase cloth-
ing at Montreal, for the troops under his command, be and are approved.
Fesolved, That the officers, who are prisoners, be allowed to sell their bills
for their subsistence.
Resolved, That major Preston, captain Kinnear, captain Goodwin, and major
Stopford, pay to the continental treasurers, the sums advanced them by ge-
neral Schuyler, and that general Schuyler be informed of this resolution, and
desired to send their obligations to the treasurers.
, Resolved, That general Montgomery be appointed a major-general in the
army of the United Colonies.
Resolved, That the sum of 166 dollars per month, be allowed to the com-
mander for the time being, in the province of Canada, and residing there, for
the expense of his table, over and above the pay, to which he may be entitled
by his commission.
Resolved, That the several other matters in general Schuyler’s letters, and
the enclosed papers, except what relates to Mr. Phelps, be referred to a com-
mittee of three, who are to take the same into consideration, and report thereon
to Congress. }
The members chosen, Mr. Dickinson, Mr. M'Kean, and Mr. Wythe.
Resolved, That the sum of 3000 dollars be advanced to Carpenter Wharton,
who has contracted to supply the battalion raised in Pennsylvania, at 7.90 of a
dollar per ration, the same to be paid him on his signing the contract, and giv-
ing security for the performance thereof.
, The committee of claims reported, that there is due to William Chew, for
riding express to the salt-petre rock in Virginia, and bringing samples of the
mineral, the sum of 84.3 dollars.
Ordered, That the above be paid.
. Colonel Dyer produced an account, amounting to 1956 dollars, for medi-
cines bought and forwarded to the camp at Cambridge.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in his favor for that sum.
The commissioners for Indian affairs in the middle department, laid before
Congress the minutes of their proceedings.
Ørdered, That the same be referred to Wednesday next.
. Resolved, That Monday next be assigned for taking into consideration the
instructions to the delegates of Rhode-Island.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
204 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
º MONDAY, December 11, 1775.
A letter from general Washington, dated 30th of November, being received,
was read, together with an invoice of stores on board the Nancy transport,
taken by the schooner Lee, captain Manly, also a letter from the convention
of New-York, dated 7th instant.
The committee to whom that part of lord Sterling's letter, respecting the
arresting and imprisoning soldiers for small sums, was referred, brought in
their report.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress took into consideration the
instructions given to the delegates of Rhode-Island, and after debate thereon,
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to devise ways and means for
furnishing these colonies with a naval armament, and report with all conve-
nient speed.
Resolved, That the committee consist of a member from each colony, viz.
Mr. Bartlett, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Deane, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Crane,
Mr. Morris, Mr. Read, Mr. Paca, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Hewes, and Mr.
Gadsden. - *s.
The Congress then took into consideration the report of the committee on
the petition of Thomas Jenkins, of the island of Nantucket, for license to sell
his cargo of oil in this city, and to purchase a cargo of provisions and fuel for
the necessary use of the inhabitants of said island, and the same was agreed to
as follows: g
Resolved, That the vigilance and zeal of the committee of the city and
liberties of Philadelphia, in preventing the said Jenkins’s cargo from being
sold, contrary to the resolutions of Congress, is highly approved.
Resolved, That it appears to this Congress, that the inhabitants of said
island are at present in great distress for want of the necessaries of life.
Resolved, That humanity requires that some speedy measures be taken by
the Congress, to enable the said inhabitants to supply themselves with neces-
sary fuel and provisions.
Resolved, That the select-men of the town of Sherbourne, in Nantucket,
prepare an estimate of the quantity of fuel, and provisions necessary for the
use of said inhabitants, and lay it before three or more justices of the peace,
for the county of Barnstable, in the colony of Massachusetts-Bay, attested by
the oath or affirmation of the said select-men ; and that the said justices be
empowered to grant licenses under their hands to any master or owner of ves-
sels in the said island, to import fuel and provisions from the colonies of Mas-
sachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island, Connecticut, New-York, New-Jersey, Penn-
sylvania, lower counties on Delaware, or Maryland, not exceeding the quanti-
ties specified in said estimate. *
Resolved, Whereas it appears that the said inhabitants are in immediate
danger of suffering for the want of the necessaries of life, that the said captain
Jenkins be permitted, under the inspection of the committee of the city and
liberties of Philadelphia, to unload and sell his present cargo, and to purchase
a cargo of fuel and provisions, provided he shall first make oath or º
before a magistrate, and give bond, that the same is, boma fide, intended for
the internal consumption of the said inhabitants, and that he will use his
utmost endeavors, that it shall not fall into the hands of the enemies of the
United Colonies.
The committee to whom the petition of Jonathan Hudson was referred, re-
ported their opinion in certain resolutions, which being read, were agreed to
as follows:
Resolved, That so much of the said petition as prays for permission to ex-
port his cargo to any place other than the islands of Great-Britain, Ireland,
Jersey, Guernsey, Sark, Aldernay, or Man, or the West-India islands, is
reasonablé. *
JoURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 205
Resolved, That so much of the said petition as prays for farther permission
is unreasonable. *
Resolved, That the said petitioner give bond, with sufficient security, to the
chairman of the committee of the town of Baltimore, under a penalty of double
the value of said cargo, to export the said cargo to some place other than the
islands of Great-Britain, Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, Sark, Aldernay, Man, and
the islands of the West-Indies; and within six months after the said exportation,
to produce to the said chairman a certificate of the port, to which the said
cargo shall have been shipped, authenticated under the hands of two merchants
of known character and reputation, residing in the same port; and that on ex-
ecuting such bond, the said chairman sign a permit to the said petitioner,
allowing him to export the said cargo.
The ãº. resuming the subject of emitting bills of credit,
Resolved, That the following gentlemen be appointed to sign and number
the bills ordered to be emitted, viz. Samuel Morris, Frederick Kuhl, Stephen
Collins, Nicholas Garrison, Matthew Clarkson, Samuel C. Morris, Thomas
Barclay, Anthony Morris, jun. James Wharton, Benjamin Fuller, Joel Evans,
Andrew Bunner, John Mease, Thomas Coombe, John Bayard, Robert Tuck-
miss, Isaac Hazlehurst, Thomas Morris, Samuel Caldwell, John Purviance,
Mordecai Lewis, George Campbell, Joseph Parker, Daniel Clymer, Joseph
Watkins, jun. John Shee, Phineas Bond, James Read, Robert Roberts, John
Ord, Isaac Howell, William Webb, Jonathan B. Smith, Cornelius Barnes,
Thomas Smith, and William Crispin.
Resolved, That each bill be signed, and numbered by two of the foregoing
gentlemen.
A petition from Mr. Phelps, was presented and read.
Ordered, That the same be taken into consideration to-morrow.
The committee appointed to examine the qualifications of persons applying
for offices, &c. reported Dr. Boyd as proper for the office of surgeon to the bat-
talion raised in Pennsylvania, and Mr. Patterson adjutant: Whereupon,
Dr. Boyd was unanimously elected.
A petition from David Beveridge, being laid before Congress and read,
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Jay, Mr Read, and Mr. Jefferson.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers for the sum of 3000 dol-
lars, in favour of the committee of correspondence.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned to take into consideration the report of
the committee of conference respecting Boston.
A letter from the commissioners for Indian affairs in the southern depart-
ment, enclosing sundry papers, was received and read.
The committee on º credit of paper currency, brought in their report.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, I)ecember 12, 1775.
Resolved, That the intercepted letters of Brooke Watson, and the invoice of
the cargo on board the brig Nancy transport, taken by the schooner Lee, cap-
tain Manly, be published.
Sundry letters relative to a cargo of molasses, taken out of the brig Nancy;
also a letter from the committee of Trenton, enclosing a parole signed by the
officers there, were laid before Congress and read.
The committee appointed to prepare letters of thanks to the three general
. in the º army, reported draughts, which being read and ap-
proved,
Ordered, That they be signed by the president and transmitted.
306 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
The committee on general Schuyler’s letters, brought in their report, which
was read.
Resolved, That the allowance for a table, made to the commander for the
time being in Canada, be granted to general Montgomery, from the time he
entered Canada.
Resolved, That this Congress will make a present of a sword of the value ºf
one hundred dollars, to captain Henry B. Livingston, as a testimony ºf their
sense of his service to this country, and that they will embrace the first op-
portunity of promoting him in the army.
Iesolved, That the sum of 120,000 dollars be advanced to the colony ºf
Rhode-Island, in part of their account against the United Colonies, to be paid
out of the emission last ordered, the said colony to be accountable for the
S3 I\l C.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress took into consideration the
report of the committiee of conference, and after debate, tº
Resolved, That the Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take this matter into farther consideration.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
f WEDNESDAY, December 13, 1775.
A letter from general Washington of the 4th instant, enclosing sundry pa-
pers, being received, was read.
The committee appointed to devise ways and means for º out a naval
armament, brought in their report, which being read and debated, was agreed
to as follows:
That five ships of 32 guns, five of 28 guns, three of 24 guns, making in the
whole thirteen, can be fitted for the sea probably by the last of march next, viz.
in New-Hampshire one, in Massachusetts-Bay two, in Connecticut one, in
Rhode-Island two, in New-York two, in Pennsylvania four, and in Maryland
O1162,
That the cost of these ships, so fitted, will not be more than 66,666 2-3
dollars each, on an average, allowing two complete suits of sails for each ship,
equal in the whole to 866,666 2-3 dollars.
That the materials for fitting them may be all furnished in these colonies,
except the articles of canvas and gun-powder; and that therefore it will be
proper the Congress direct the most speedy and effectual means of importing
the said articles of canvas and powder; that of the former, 7500 pieces will be
wanted, and that of the latter, one hundred tons'
Resolved, That a committee be appointed with full powers to carry the said
report into execution, with all possible expedition, (except what relates to
canvas and powder) at the expense of the United Colonies.
Resolved, That the appointment of this committee be deferred till to-morrow.
Resolved, That it be an instruction to the secret committee to embrace the
best and earliest opportunities to procure the quantity of duck and powder in
the above report. ;
Mr. Willing, one of the secret committee, desiring to be excused on ac-
count of his living out of town, which rendered it impraticable for him to at-
tend the committee, which usually meets in the evening :
Resolved, That he be excused, and another be elected in his room.
The member chosen, Mr. R. Morris. *>
Resolved, That when this Congress shall adjourn, it will be necessary to
appoint a committee to sit during the adjournment, for the purpose of superin-
tending the treasury, carrying on necessary correspondence, and such other
services as shall be directed by Congress, *ś
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 270
Resolved, that a committee of five be appointed to consider and prepare in-
structions for the committee above-mentioned.
The members chosen, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Hooper, Dr. Franklin, Mr. Jay,
and Mr. Deane.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to fit out armed vessels, be aur
thorized to give able-bodied seamen that may be willing to enter on board the
ships of war of the United Colonies, eight dollars º: calendar month.
Information being given that sundry persons in this city have lately sold tea,
Resolved, That the consideration of this matter be referred to Friday next.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, December 14, 1775,
Resolved, That on the meeting of Congress, half an hour every morning be
º in reading the corrected copy of the journal, till the whole is gone
through.
ºia, That every morning the minutes of the preceding day be read, be-
fore the Congress enter on new business.
Resolved, That the corrected journal, after being read, be transcribed, and
sent to the press.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress proceeded to the appoint-
ment of a committee, to carry into execution the resolutions of Congress, for
fitting out a naval armament. |
Resolved, That the said committee consist of a member from each colony.
Resolved, That the choice be by ballot.
The members chosen, Mr. Bartlett, Mr. Hancock, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Deane,
Mr. Lewis, Mr. Crane, Mr. R. Morris, Mr. Read, Mr. Chase, Mr. R. H. Lee,
Mr. Hewes, Mr. Gadsden, and Mr. Houston.
Congress took into consideration general Washington’s letter of the 4th :
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the second resolution in the report of the committee on the
general’s letter, relative to transports, be committed.
Resolved, That lieutenant Hay, of the 7th regiment, who is now a prisoner,
have liberty to return to Great-Britain, on his parole, not to take up arms
. America, during the present contest between Great-Britain and these
C010IlleS.
A petition from Peter Berlon, was presented to Congress and read.
Resolved, That the said petition, with the papers accompanying it, be re-
erred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. E. Rutledge, Mr. Lynch, and Mr. Smith.
The several matters to this day referred, being further postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, December 15, 1775.
Information being given to Congress, that captain Motte, who had the charge
of conducting the prisoners to Reading, and other towns in Pennsylvania, hav-
ing performed that service, was returned to this city,
Resolved, That the committee appointed to distribute the prisoners, confer
with captain Motte, and report to Congress.
Resolved, That the committee of safety for the colony of Pennsylvania, be
. to recommend proper persons for field officers of the four battalions
to be raised in the said colony.
Resolved. That the said committee appoint proper persons for officers in the
said battalion, under the rank of majors. º
Resolved, That similar orders be given to the committee of safety of the
$208 Journals OF CONGRESS, 1775.
lower counties on Delaware, for recommending field officers, and appointing
inferior officers, for the battalion to be raised in that colony.
Resolved, That Messrs. George Meade and company, merchants, of the city
of Philadelphia, be permitted to export from the colony of Virginia, so much
of the produce of that country, as shall be equal in value to any quantity of
salt, not exceeding six thousand bushels, which they shalf carry and safely de-
liver there to the committee of safety or their order, who are empowered to
regulate the prices of the said produce and salt; and that the said George
Meade and company, having given to the delegates of the said colony, in this
city, bond with sufficient security, under a penalty of double the value of the
said salt, that they will not carry any produce of the said colony, which they
may receive in return for their salt, to the islands of Great-Britain, Ireland,
Jersey, Guernsey, Sark, Aldernay, or Man, or to the West-India islands, and
producing to the committee of safety of the said colony a certificate thereof,
signed by the said delegates here, shall have a permit under the hand of the
chairman of the said committee of safety, to export the said produce, the said
permit being to be endorsed on, or annexed to a manifest of the cargo exported.
The committee appointed to prepare instructions for the committee who are
to sit during the recess of Congress, brought in their report, which was read.
The committee of claims reported that there is due, -
To Robert Erwin, wagon-master, for the carriage of clothing to Dobb’s
ferry, the sum of 40 dollars. -
To Philip Livingston, esq. for printing, &c. the sum of 56.2 dollars.
To sundries, for provisions, &c. furnished to several companies of riflemen,
the sum of 212 dollars, to be paid to Henry Wisner, esq.
To the committee of observation at Princetown, for sundry expenses, and
for provisions furnished several rifle companies, the sum of 74.3 dollars, to be
aid to Thomas Higgins.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The committee to whom the second resolution, in the report relative to trans-
ports, was recommitted, brought in their report, which was read.
The several matters to this day referred, being further postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
f
SATURDAY, December 16, 1775.
A letter from general Washington, of the 7th, being received, was read.
A letter from the convention of New-York, of the 9th, being laid before Con-
ress and read,
Ordered, That this be referred to the committee on the credit of the conti-
nental currency.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to carry into execution the resolu-
tions of Congress relative to a naval armament, be empowered to draw on the
treasurers, from time to time, for any sums not exceeding 500,000 dollars, for
carrying said resolutions into execution. 4-
Resolved, That the delegates of Virginia and Maryland be a committee to
prepare instructions for col. Irvine.
The committee appointed to confer with captain Motte, brought in a report,
which was read. -
The committee of claims reported, that there is due to Josiah Fessenden, for
riding express three times to the camp at Cambridge, and once to Rhode-Island,
and for expenses and horse hire, a balance atmounting to 126 dollars.
To Daniel King, for 36 days’ hire of a sulky for said J. Fessenden, the sum
of 18 dollars.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Capt. White-Eyes, a Delaware chief, who came down with the commission-
ers for Indian affairs in the middle department, being introduced to Congress,
the president addressed him in the following manner : \
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 209
*—
“BRoth ER CAPTAIN WHITE EYES,
We are glad to see you, and we bid you welcome to this council fire, kindled
for all the United Colonies. & f
We have heard of your friendship for your brethren, the white people, and
how useful you have been in preserving peace and harmony between your na-
tion and us, and we thank you for those services.
We are pleased that the Delawares intend to embrace Christianity. We
will send you, according to your desire, a minister and a school-master to in-
struct you in the principles of religion, and other parts of useful knowledge.
We shall be happy in improving every opportunity that shall offer for con-
vincing your nation, and all other nations of Indians, of our friendly disposition
towards them.
Before you leave this city, we will give you some particular testimony of our
regard for you.”
The Congress, taking into consideration the report of the committee who
conferred with capt. Motte,
Upon motion made, Resolved, That the officers be distributed in such places
as are most agreeable to themselves, observing always the former resolutions of
Congress on this subject, and that the officers and privates be not stationed in
the same places, until the further orders of Congress.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to confer with major Pres-
ton, and, with him, fix on an agent to negotiate his bills, and, with the money
arising from the sale of said bills, to supply the prisoners taken at St. John’s
with clothing and other necessaries. &
The members chosen, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. R. H. Lee, and Mr. S. Adams.
Resolved, That the privates who are prisoners, and have been left by captain
Motte at Lancaster, be allowed to remain in that place till the further orders
of Congress.
Resolved, That a sum not exceeding 80 dollars be paid to capt. Motte, being
so much advanced and paid by him for necessaries to his men in conducting
the prisoners.
º, That the distribution of the prisoners made by captain Motte be
approved.
"...i. That it be a standing rule of Congress, that no person be allowed
to make any motion after twelve o’clock, without special leave, until the orders
of the day are either determined or put off to another day.
A petition from sundry merchants of Philadelphia, was presented and read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Morris, Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Hooper.
. The committee to whom the petition of Mr. Beveridge was referred, brought
in their report, which was read.
Ordered, To lie on the table. ***
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, December 18, 1775. Y
The committee appointed to confer with major Preston, reported their pro-
•eedings, and that they had not yet come to a conclusion with him on the mat-
ter given them in charge. *
Resolved. That major Preston have leave to go with captain Motte to Lan-
easter, and tº remain there ten days, if he chuse to tarry so long.
Resolved, That a copy of the resolutions of Congress, relative to the disposal
of the prisoners, and of the parole to be signed by the officers, be sent to the
committee of inspection of Lancaster; and that an order issue to the said com-
mittee to take the parole of the officers there, and transmit the same to Con-
$ºl'eSS, *
s Wor, f. g7
210 w JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
-
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favor of captain
Edward Motte, for the farther sum of 80 dollars, he to be accountable for the
SàIſle.
Sundry affidavits from Wyoming, relative to disturbances there, between
the people of Connecticut and Pennsylvania, being laid before the Congress
and read,
After debate, Resolved, That the consideration of this matter be referred
till to-morrow. * {
Letters from general Schuyler, with sundry letters and papers enclosed,
being received, were read.
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Hooper, Mr. M'Kean, and Mr. Jefferson.
The sundry matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
*
TUESDAY, December 19, 1775.
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to
supply the armed vessels, which are nearly ready to sail, with four tons of gun-
powder, at the continental expense.
That the said committee be requested to procure and lend the said vessels
as many stands of small arms as they can spare, not exceeding 400, to be repaid
by the Congress either in kind or value, as the committee may desire.
That if the powder and arms that may be supplied and lent to the continent
for the use of the said armed vessels, shall not be replaced on or before the first
day of February next, the Congress engages that their whole influence and
authority shall then be exerted immediately, to replace the same, by procuring
powder and arms from some other part of the continent. *-
Resolved, That if the powder supplied and lent to the continent by the city
of New-York, shall not be replaced on or before the first of February next, the
Congress engages that their whole influence and authority shall then be exerted
immediately to replace the same, by providing powder from some other part of
the continent. * *
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resumed the consideration
of the general’s letter, and the report of the committee on the second resolu-
tion in their former report, which was re-committed, and thereupon came to the
following resolution:
Resolved, That all transport vessels in the same service, having on board
any troops, arms, ammunition, clothing, provisions, military or naval stores of
what kind soever, and all vessels to whomsoever belonging, that shall be em-
ployed in carrying provisions or other necessaries to the British army or armies,
or navy, that now are or shall hereafter be within any of the United Colonies,
or any goods, wares, or merchandises, for the use of such fleet and army, shall
beliable to seizure, and, with their cargoes, shall be confiscated.
The committee on the qualifications of officers applying, &c. brought in a
report, which was read: - . *
Ordered, To lie on the table.
* committee on the state of Virginia, brought in their report, which being
tead, * d
Ordered, To lie on the table.
A letter from general Washington being received, was read.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, December 20, 1775.
The committee of claims report, that there is due to sundry persons for ne-
cessaries furnished to the rifle companies in Virginia, the sum .# 640.5 dollars,
and that the same ought to be paid to Thomas Rutherford.
--
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 211
*
To Rebecca Reynolds, for horse hire, the sum of 6.9 dollars, and the same
ought to be paid to Henry Wisner, esq.
Ordered, That the above be paid.
Resolved, That orders be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of the reverend
Mr. Elihu Spencer, and the reverend Mr. Alexander MºWhorter, who have
undertaken to go to North-Carolina, for the sum of 120 dollars each, being
three months’ advance, they to be accountable.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the
petition of David Beveridge, which was agreed to: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the said petition is unreasonable: Resolved, nevertheless,
that for the more speedy arming these colonies, the said David Beveridge be
permitted to export a cargo of the produce of America (live stock and lumber
excepted) to any part of the world, except Great Britain, the British Islands,
Ireland, or the British West-Indies, on his giving bond, with sufficient security,
in double the amount of the said cargo, to the chairman of the committee of in-
spection of the city and liberties of Philadelphia, or to such persons as the
said committee shall appoint, that he will import, into these colonies, by the
first day of June next, the amount of the proceeds of the said cargo, in arms,
ammunition, or salt-petre, and shall dispose of the same to the Congress, for
the use of the United Colonies, at such reasonable prices, as by the committee
of inspection of the place in which the vessel shall arrive, shall be ascertained
and determined.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the general’s letters, and there-
wpon came to the following resolution:
Resolved, That the several vessels heretofore taken and carried into Massa-
chusetts-Bay, by the armed vessels in the service of the United Colonies, be
proceeded against by the rules of the law of nations, and libelled in the courts
of admiralty erected in said colony. w
The Congress, taking into consideration the dispute between the people of
Pennsylvania and Connecticut, on the waters of Susquehanna, came to the
following resolution :
Whereas a dispute subsists between some of the inhabitants of the colony of
Connecticut, settled under the claim of the said colony, on the lands near
Wyoming, on the Susquehanna river, and in the Delaware country, and the
inhabitants settled under the claim of the proprietors of Pennsylvania, which
dispute, it is apprehended, will, if not suspended during the present troubles
in these colonies, be productive of pernicious consequences, which may be
very prejudicial to the common interest of the United Colonies; therefore,
Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Congress, and it is accordingly re-
commended, that the contending parties immediately cease all hostilities, and
avoid every appearance of force, until the dispute can be legally decided; that
all the property taken and detained, be restored to the original owners; that
no interruption be given by either party to the free passing and repassing of
persons behaving themselves peaceably through the disputed territory, as well
by land as water, without molestation of either persons or property; that all
persons seized and detained on account of said }. on either side, be dis-
missed and permitted to go to their respective homes; and that, things being
put in the same situation they were before the late unhappy contest, they con-
tinue to behave themselves peaceably on their respective possessions and im-
provements, until a legal decision can be had on said dispute, or this Congress
shall take further order thereon; and nothing herein done shall be construed
in prejudice of the claim of either party. ^
Adjourned to ten o’clock to morrow.

THURSDAY, December 21, 1775.
. Ordered, That an authentic copy of the resolution passed yesterday, rela-
tive to the dispute between the people of Connecticut and Pennsylvania, be
*-
transmitted to the contending parties.
212 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
sº
•=s*
The convention of Maryland having added two new members to their dele.
gates, one of them attending, produced the credentials of their appointment,
which were read, and are as follows:
“ANNAPolis (MARYLAND.) IN PRovincIAL Convention, DECEMBER 9, 1775.
“Resolved, That Robert Alexander and John Rogers, esqrs. together with
those already appointed, be deputies to represent this province in the Conti-
nental Congress, and that the said deputies, or any three or more of them, have
full and ample power to consent and agree to all measures, which such Con-
gress shall deem necessary and effectual to obtain a redress of American
rievances, and be authorized to represent and act for this province in any
ontinental Congress, which may be held before the 25th day of March next.
f Extract from the minutes,
G. DUWALL, Clerk.”
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the
qualifications of officers applying, &c. and the same being debated,
Resolved, That forty iron pots be provided for the soldiers, while in the bar-
racks near Philadelphia.
Resolved, That the commissioned officers of each company be allowed, eve-
ry week, a quarter of a cord of hickory, or other wood in proportion. *
Resolved, That there be provided for the battalion raised in Pennsylvania,
one hundred haversacks, a camp kettle for every six men, a tomahawk, can-
teen, cartouch box, knapsack, and two belts for each man. .
... Resolved, That a coat of uniform be provided for each soldier, and that what
the coat cost more than the hunting shirt, which was to have been given them,
be deducted from their wages.
Resolved, That the said battalion be paid one month’s pay as soon as may
be, that afterwards they receive monthly half a month’s pay only, until so
much is retained, as will amount to the money advanced for their fire arms,
clothing, &c. after which they shall receive their full pay monthly.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the committee of safety of Pennsyl-
vania, to provide arms, for the three companies which are ordered to march;
and also to provide the articles ordered above for the use of the said battalion,
and likewise to furnish the said battalion with drums, colors and fifes.
Dr. James Holmes was chosen surgeon to colonel Maxwell’s regiment.
Matthias Halsted was elected quarter-master to lord Sterling’s regiment.
Resolved, That the committee on the qualifications of officers, &c. be direct-
ed to procure proper medicine-chests for the battalion raised in Pennsylvania
and New-Jersey. T -
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
consideration that part of the report of the committee of conference, relative
to an attack on Boston, and after some time spent thereon, the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that the committee had taken into
consideration the matter referred to them, but not having come to a determina-
tion thereon, desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow morning, resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration, the report of
' the committee of conference, relative to the attack on Boston.
Resolved, Thät Mr. M'Kean, Mr. Lee, and Mr. S. Adams, be a committee
to consider what allowance should be made to the officers who are prisoners,
for their support. *
#. That Mr. Regonville, a Canadian prisoner at Trenton, be permit-
ted tº come to Philadelphia, and there wait the orders of Congress.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 113
*
sºº
a
FRIDAY, December 22, 1775.
A letter from general Schuyler of the 14th; also a letter from lord Sterling
of the same date, and a letter from captain Livingston, being received, were
read.
The committee appointed to fit out armed vessels, laid before Congress a
list of the officers by them appointed, agreeable to the powers to them given
by Congress, viz. *
Ezek Hopkins, esq. commander in chief of the fleet.
Dudley Saltonstall, captain of the Alfred.
Abraham Whipple, captain of the Columbus.
Nicholas Biddle, captain of the Andrew Doria.
John Burrows Hopkins, captain of the Cabot.
First lieutenants. John Paul Jones, Rhodes Arnold,
sted Hacker, Jonathan Pitcher.
Second lieutenants. Benjamin Seabury, Joseph Olney, Elisha Warner,
Thomas Weaver, M“Dougall.
Third lieutenants. John Fanning, Ezekiel Burroughs, Daniel Vaughan.
Resolved, That the pay of the commander in chief of the fleet be 125 dollars
per calendar month.
Resolved, That commissions be granted to the above officers agreeable to
their rank in the above appointment.
Resolved, That the committee for fitting out armed vessels, issué warrants
to all officers employed in the fleet under the rank of third lieutenants.
Resolved, That }. said committee be directed (as a secret committee)
to give such instructions to the commander of the fleet, touching the opera-
tions of the ships under his command, as shall appear to the said committee
most conducive to the defence of the United Colonies, and to the distress of
the enemy’s naval forces and vessels bringing supplies to their fleets and
armies, and lay such instructions before the Congress when called for.
Resolved, That the said committee be directed to consider how the shares
of the prizes allotted to the captors ought to be divided between the officers
and men, and report to Congress.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to confer with the Indians
lately arrived, and report to Congress.
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Lynch, and Mr. S. Adams.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into farther consideration the report of the com-
mittee of conference relative to an attack on Boston, and after some time spent
thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that the
committee had taken into consideration the matter referred to them, and had
come to a resolution thereon, which he was ready to report. The report of the
committee being read, was agreed to as follows:
Resolved, That if general Washington and his council of war should be
of 9pinion, that a successful attack may be made on the troops in Boston, he
do it in any manner he may think expedient, notwithstanding §. town and pro-
perly in it may thereby be destroyed. *&
, Resolved, That the quarter-master general have the rank of a colonel in the
army of the United Colonies. n *
The committee of claims reported that there is due,
To Benjamin Harrison, esq. for his expenses in his late iourney t
the sum of 72.4 dollars. q penses in his late journey to Maryland,
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Ordered, That the examination of Connolly and the others taken with him,
also the Papers found in the said Connolly's possession, be printed.
Resolved, That Mr. J efferson, Mr. Hooper, Dr. Franklin, Mr. J ay, and
Mr. Deane, be a committee to examine the journals, and lay before Congress a
Stansbury, Her-

214 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775.
ſº. *-i-º-º-º-º-
º
list of the matters therein that are unfinished, and which are proper to be act-
ed unon.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, December 23, 1775.
A letter from lord Sterling of the 19th, being received, was read.
A petition from Seth Paddock, master of the sloop Mayflower, and Sylvanus
Coffin, master of the schooner Dolly, of the island of Nantucket, was present-
ed to Congress and read: *
Resolved, That the said petition be referred to a committee of three, and
that it be an instruction to said committee, to enquire what quantity of pro-
visions and fuel is necessary for the annual internal consumption of the inha-
bitants of said island of Nantucket, and what quantity has been exported
from the different ports of the United Colonies, during the present month of
December.
The members chosen, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. Harrison, and Mr. Sherman.
One of the committee appointed to repair to Ticonderoga, and confer with
general Schuyler, being returned, laid before Congress a report of their pro-
ceedings, which was read.
The committee of claims reported that there is due,
To Ephraim Blaine, for expenses incurred by the treaty with the Western
Indians, and paid by him, the sum of 59 533 19 4, and that there is due to
Ephraim Steel, for sundries furnished two rifle companies, the sum of £ 14 8,
which ought to be paid to the said Blaine; and also 4s 8, due to John M*Kee,
of which two last sums there ought to be charged to the continent, the sum of
ag5= 13.3 dollars, for the two cwt. lead, and the remainder to the companies
respectively, the whole being 1462.9 dollars.
º. That the same be paid.
The committee to whom the application from the convention of the colony
of New-York, for the loan of £45,000 was referred, brought in their report,
which being read, was agreed to as follows: *.
Notwithstanding it appears to this committee that the credit of the colony
of New-York is unquestionable, and their application for the loan of £45,000
was suggested by disinterested principles, yet, that it would not be advisable,
in the opinion of this committee, for the Congress to make the loan proposed.
The committee appointed to confer with the Indians, made report of their
proceedings, which was read.
Whereas the colony of Connecticut has, by a certain act of their assembly, re-
solved that no further settlements be made on the lands disputed between
them and Pennsylvania, without license from the said assembly.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the colony of Connecticut not to intro-
duce any settlers on the said landstill the further order of this Congress, un-
til the said dispute shall be settled.
The committee on the state of the treasury brought in a report, which being
read, and in part debated,
Resolved, That the further consideration thereof be postponed.
The committee appointed to consider what articles are necessary for the ar-
“my, brought in their report, which was read. t
The committee to whom the petition of Peter Berton was referred, brought
in their report, which being read, was agreed to, and is as follows:
That, after mature consideration hi thereon, they are of opinion that it
is not advisable or proper for the Congress to grant the prayer of the said pe-
tition."
Ordered, That the delegates of Pennsylvania call on the treasurers, and en-
quire of them what sum of hard money they have collected, and report to Con-
gress. | *
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 215
--~~~º-
Resolved, That the committee appointed to confer with the Indians conclude
their conference with them by returning them a friendly answer, and making
them a small present. g
The committee appointed to examine the journal, &c. laid before Congress
a list of the several matters therein, which are yet unfinished.
Ordered, That the several committees to whom any matters are referred,
conclude their business with all convenient despatch, and report to Congress.
Ordered, That the second paragraph in general Schuyler’s letter, relative to
the measures taken by the ministerial agents, to engage the Indians in a war
with these colonies, be published.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Tuesday next.
TUESDAY, December 26, 1775.
Two letters from general Washington, of the 14th and 16th, with one en-
closed from Dr. Morgan, a letter from governor Trumbull of the 20th, with a
resolution of the assembly of the colony of Connecticut, also a letter from sun-
dry masters of vessels, dated Guadaloupe, September 19, being received, were
read.
The deputy muster-master general sent to Congress the muster rolls of the
Pennsylvania battalion by him mustered. ſº
Resolved, That the deputy muster-master be directed to repair to New-Jer-
sey, and muster the battalions raised in that colony, and make return to Con-
TGSS,
Resolved, That Friday next be assigned for taking into consideration the
propriety of opening the ports of the United Colonies after the is: day of March
Inext.
"The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the state
of the treasury, and thereupon came to the following resolutions:
Whereas an estimate hath lately been formed of the public expense already
arisen, and which may accrue in the defence of America, to the 10th day of
June next, in pursuance whereof this Congress, on the 29th of November, re-
solved that a farther sum of three millions of dollars be emitted in bills of
credit. &
Resolved, That the thirteen United Colonies be pledged for the redemption
of the bills of credit so directed to be emitted.
That each colony provide ways and means to sink its proportion of said bills,
in such manner as may be most effectual, and best adapted to the condition,
circumstances, and equal mode of levying taxes in each colony.
That the proportion or quota of each respective colony be determined accord-
ing to the number of inhabitants, of all ages, including negroes and mulattoes
in each colony. ,
That it be recommended to the several assemblies, conventions, or councils
or cºmmittees of safety of the respective colonies, to ascertain, by the most im.
partial and effectual means in their power, the number of inhabitants in each
respective colony, taking care that the lists be authenticated by the oaths of the
several persons who shall be entrusted with this service; and that the said as-
semblies, conventions, councils, or committees of safety, do respectively lay be-
fore this Congress a return of the number of inhabitants of their respective co-
lonies, as soon as the same shall be procured.
That each colony pay its respective quota in ſour equal payments; the first
to be made on or before the last day of November, 1783; the second, on or bel
fore the last day of November, 1784; the third, on or before the last day of No-
vember, 1785; and the fourth or last, on or before the last day of November
1786; and that, for this end, the several assemblies or conventions provide for
laying and levying taxes in their respective colonies, towards sinking the conti-
mental bills: that the said bills be received by the collectors in payment of such
216 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775,
taxes, and be by the collectors paid into the hands of the provincial treasurers,
with all such other moneys as they may receive in lieu of the cóntinental bills;
which other moneys the provincial treasurers shall endeavor to get exchanged
for continental bills; * where that cannot be done, shall send to the conti-
nental treasurers the deficiency in silver and gold, with the bills, making up
the quota to be sunk in that year; taking care to cut, by a circular punch of an
inch diameter, an hole in such bills, and to cross the same, thereby to render
them unpassable, though the sum or value is to remain fairly legible ; and the
continental treasurers, as fast as they receive the said quotas, shall, with the as-
sistance of a committee of five persons, to be appointed by the Congress, if sit-
ting, or by the assembly or convention of the province of Pennsylvania, examine
and count the continental bills, and, in the presence of the said committee, burn
and destroy them; and the silver and gold sent them to make up the deficien-
Scies of quotas, they shall retain in their hands, until demanded in redemption
of continental bills, that may be brought to them for that purpose, which bills,
so redeemed, they shall also burn and destroy in the presence of the said com-
mittee; and the treasurers, whenever they have silver and gold in their hands
for the redemption of continental bills, shall advertise the same, signifying that
they are ready to give gold or silver for such bills, to all persons requiring it in
exchange.
The reports of the committees on general Schuyler's letters, and the report
of the committee sent to Ticonderoga, being read,
Resolved, That the same be recommitted to Mr. Dickinson, Mr. M'Kean,
Mr. Wythe, Mr. Hooper, Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Langdon.
The report of the committee, to whom was referred a paragraph of lord
Sterling's letter to the Congress, complaining that several of his recruits had
been arrested and imprisoned for trifling debts, being taken into consideration,
was agreed to as ollows:
Whereas there is reason to believe, that divers persons, either from inat-
tention to the public good, or with design to retard the recruiting service, have
arrested and imprisoned, for very trifling debts, many soldiers, who had en-
gaged to risque their lives in defence of the liberties of America; and, as it has
always been found necessary, in time of war, to regulate and restrain a
practice of such, pernicious tendency, and in such cases, to abate the rigour
of the law: t .*
Resolved, therefore, That it be recommended to the several legislatures in
these colonies, whether assemblies or conventions, to pass acts or ordinances,
prohibiting the arrests of continental soldiers for small debts; and in order that
, the same rule may pervade all the colonies, that no soldier be arrested at the
suit of any of his creditors, unless the said creditor make oath, that the said
soldier is justly indebted to him in the sum of thirty-five dollars over and
above all discounts; and that the estate of no such soldier be liable to attach-
ment at the suit of, or for the benefit of all his creditors, unless their debts in
the whole, on being ascertained by their oaths, shall amount to more than one
hundred and fifty dollars. *
Resolved, That the several letters received from lord Sterling, be referred to
a committee of three, who are directed to report an answer.
The members chosen, Mr. Adams, Mr. W. Livingston and Mr. Jay.
Resolved, That the battalion raised in Pennsylvania, be supplied with gun-
brushes, prickers, double-worms, screw-drivers, and oil; º fhat it be re-
commended to the committee of safety of the said colony to provide the
Sâlîle. $
Whereas this Congress, by a resolution passed the 15th day of July last,
did direct that every vessel, importing into these colonies, gun-powder, salt-
etre, sulphur, and other military stores therein specified, within nine months
rom the date thereof, should be permitted to load and export the produce of
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775. 217
these colonies, to the value of such powder and stores aforesaid, the non-ex-
portation agreement notwithstanding, by permits from the committees of the
several colonies; to the end, therefore, that this Congress may be the better
informed of the quantity of military stores, which are or shall be so imported,
and of the produce exported in consequence of the resolution aforesaid.
Resolved, That it be recommended to all committees by whom any permits,
under the said resolution, have been or may be granted, to transmit to this
Congress, from time to time, a true account of the military stores, &c. import-
ed, and of the produce exported, with the price and value of both.
Ordered, That the foregoing resolution be published.
The committee appointed to prepare instructions to lieut. col. Irvine brought
in a draught, which being read, was agreed to.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, December 27, 1775.
A letter of the 21st from the committee of inspection of the town of Lan-
caster, enclosing the paroles of the officers there, being received, was read.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to confer with captain
Motte, and consult with him on the best method of providing the guard under
his command with provisions on their return home.
The members chosen, Mr. Cushing, Mr. Deane, and Mr. Lynch.
The Congress then took into consideration the report of the committee on
the state of Virginia, and after debate, the farther consideration thereof, at the
request of a colony, was postponed till to-morrow.
The committee appointed to confer with captain Motte, brought in their
report, which being read, was agreed to as follows:
That they find some of said guard have upwards of 240 miles to march: that
they will be content with eight dollars each, and bear their own expenses to
their respective homes, or to be supplied by a commissary, or any other way as
the Congress shall judge best.
It is the opinion of the committee, that the said guard receive a sum not
exceeding eight dollars each, in lieu of all other povision for their return :
therefore, t
Itesolved, That captain Motte be empowered to pay to his guard for the
purpose aforesaid, a sum not exceeding eight dollars to any one, according to
their respective distances, and that he return to the committee of claims, a list
of his men, and an account of the payments to them made.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, December 28, 1775.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due to Sacheveral Wood,
the sum of 91.9 dollars, for support of 17 men to the 21st December, who are
confined in the gaol of Philadelphia, by order of Congress. f
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favor of G. Wythe,
esq. one of the committee appointed to confer with the Indians, for the sum of
18 1-3 dollars, as a present to said Indians. •
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of the com-
mittee of safety of Pennsylvania, for the sum of 8000 dollars, for the use of
*: battalion raised in said colony, the said committee to be accountable for
the same. *.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on
the state of Virginia; and thereupon came to the following resolution :
Resolved, That six battalions are necessary to be immediately raised in
Virginia, and that they be raised accordingly, upon the same terms, and paid
Vol. T. Q8
218 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775
as the continental forces in the camp at Cambridge, unless the convention of
that colony can raise them on better terms.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the secret committee,
which being in part agreed to,
Resolved, That the farther consideration thereof be postponed till to-morrow.
-Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to take into consideration
the state of New York, and report thereon to Congress.
The members chosen, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Deane, ğ. Wythe, Mr. W. Living-
ston, and Mr. Jay.
The committee to whom the petition of captains Paddock and Coffin was re-
ferred, brought in their report, which was read.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, December 29, 1775.
A petition of captain Sellick was presented to Congress and read:
Itesolved, That the said petition, with the papers accompanying it, be referred
to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Smith, Mr. Floyd, and Mr. F. Lee.
A petition from a number of the inhabitants of Pennsylvania, being read,
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Information being given to Congress of a quantity of arms and ammunition
which may be procured,
* Resolved, That a committee of three, be appointed to enquire farther into
this matter. "
The members chosen, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. Jay, and Mr. Lynch.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the trade of the United Colo-
nies, and after some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and
Mr. Ward reported, that the committee had taken into consideration, the mat-
ter to them referred, and had come to certain resolutions, which he was ready
to report. ł
The report of the committee being read, the Congress took the same into
consideration, and, thereupon, came to the following resolution:
Resolved, That the colonies of Virginia, Maryland, and North-Carolina, be
permitted to export produce from their respective colonies, to any part of the
world, except Great-Britain, Ireland, the islands of Jersey, Guernsey, Sark,
Aldernay and Man, and the British West-India islands, and in return to im-
port so much salt from any part of the world, not prohibited by the association,
as the conventions or councils of safety of the two former colonies, and the
provincial council of the other shall judge necessary, for the use of the inha-
bitants thereof, now suffering great distress by the scarcity of that necessary
article, proper caution being taken to prevent any abuse of this indulgence, by
exceeding in the quantities exported or imported, and that no provisions, staves,
or naval stores be exported, if other commodities may answer the purpose.
Resolved, That as the importation of any universally necessary commodity,
and the exportation of our produce, to purchase the same, must give a pro-
portionably greater opportunity to our enemies of making depredations on the
property of the inhabitants of these colonies, and of occasionally distressing
them by intercepting such commodities, it is earnestly recommended to the
several assemblies or conventions immediately to promote, by sufficient public
encouragements, the making salt in their respective colonies.
Ordered, That the foregoing resolution be immediately published. &
The committee on Indian trade, brought in their report.
. The committee on lord Sterling’s letters, also brought in their report.
A letter of the 16th, from the committee of correspondence, in Virginia, was
laid before Congress, and read:
Ordered, To lie on the table,
\
Journals of congress, 1775. 219
wº-T-
The order of the day being renewed, and the several matters to this day
referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, December 30, 1775.
Two letters from general Washington, of the 19th and 21st, enclosing a
copy of a letter to general Howe, and accompanied with a number of inter-
cepted letters, being received and read,
Resolved, That the letters from the general, and the intercepted letters, be
referred to a committee of five. t
The members chosen, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Hooper, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Deane,
and Mr. S. Adams. ^.
A letter from general Schuyler of the 21st, being received, was read.
Another letter from general Washington, dated 14th December, brought by
two strangers, was laid before Congress and read. º
Resolved, That this be referred to the secret committee, who are direct-
ed to confer with the bearers, and to pursue such measures as they may think
proper for the interest of the United Colonies. z .*
Resolved, That major Preston have leave to go to Amboy to visit his uncle
who lives there, and to remain in that place one week, and then return to Phi-
ladelphia, and wait the orders of Congress.
The committee appointed to equire into the grounds of the information, res-
pecting a quantity of arms and ammunition being to be procured, report, that
they have examined into the same, and have received intelligence that a quantity
of arms and ammunition, and other articles are concealed in Tryon county, in
which also there are several tories armed and inlisted in the enemy’s service:
Whereupon, *- ...”
Resolved, That the said committee be directed to communicate this intelli-
gence to general Schuyler, and in the name of the Congress, desire him to
take the most speedy and effectual measures for securing the said arms and
º stores, and for disarming the said tories, and apprehending their
chiefs. *
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favour of the said
committee, for the sum of forty dollars, for expediting the business to them
committed.
Ordered, That the delegates of Pennsylvania do immediately count the sil-
ver, and gold in the treasury, and forward the same, with all convenient speed,
under a guard of five men, to general Schuyler; and that the persons to be
sent by the foregoing committee, accompany said guard.
Resolved, That the treasurers be empowered to employ a broker to collect
silver and gold, in exchange for continental bills of credit. \
The committee on captain Sellick’s petition, brought in their report, which
was read.
Resolved, That the contents of the intercepted letters this day read, and the
steps which Congress may take in consequence of the intelligence thereby
given, be kept secret until further orders, excepting only that the delegates of
Virginia and South-Carolina have leave to send to their conventions, extracts
of such parts of the said letters, as they may think necessary for the welfare
of their colonies. *
The committee on the petition of sundry merchants in Philadelphia, also
brought in their report, which was read.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday next.
MONDAY, January 1, 1776.
A letter from governor Trumbull, dated the 23d of December, being receiv-
ed, was read. - -
s The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on captain
Sellick's petition, which was agreed to, as follows: {
9:30 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
A— -—1–
*-*-ºs
That they have maturely considered the petition, and have examined captain
Simeon Sellick particularly thereon, and are of opinion, that the petitioner be
allowed, as a compensation for his expenses, trouble, and risk in taking the
goods at Turtlebay, for the use of the United Colonies, the sum of 333 dollars
and one-third, and that the committee of Fairfield be directed to take into their
possession, for the use of the said colonies, all the goods taken by captain Sel;
lick, which are not already delivered by him, and to forward the two boxes of
salt-petre now in capt. Sellick’s custody, to the powder mill in Ulster county,
to be manufactured into gun-powder for the continental service.
The Congress, taking into consideration the report of the committee on lord
Sterling’s letters, after debate thereon,
Resolved, That it be recommitted. -
The Congress proceeded to the election of an adjutant for the battalion rais-
ed in Pennsylvania, and the ballots being taken sº examined,
John Patterson was elected.
Resolved, That the president sign commissions to the field officers appoint-
ed by the provincial Congress of North-Carolina, to command the two battal-
ions directed to be raised in that colony by this Congress, and that such com-
missions bear like date with those issued to the said officers by the said pro-
vincial Congress of North-Carolina.
Resolved, That, in case of vacancy occasioned by the death or removal of a
colonel or inferior officer, the provincial convention of North-Carolina, or, in
their recess, the provincial council, appoint another person to fill up such va-
cancy, until a commission shall issue from this Congress; and that they return
to this Congress a list of the names of the person-or persons so appointed.
The delegates of New-York having received new powers from their conven-
tion, laid the same before Congress, as follows:
“IN PRow1NCIAL Congress, JWew-Pork, December 21, 1775.
“Resolved, That the present delegates of this colony, in Continental Con-
gress, be requested to make such an arrangement among themselves, as that
five of them only continue at Congress, and represent this colony at any one
time; and that, in case of the necessary absence of any one or two of the dele-
gates so attending, according to such arrangement, that three or four of them
be a quorum, and enabled to represent the colony during such absence.
“A true copy from the minutes.
“JOHN MºkESSON, Secretary.”
The committee to whom the letters from general Washington, and the in-
tercepted letters, were referred, brought in their report, which being taken in-
to consideration, the Congress came to the following resolutions:
Resolved, That the president of the provincial council of North-Carolina and
of Georgia, be requested to procure committees of their several bodies to repair
immediately to Charleston, and there to confer with a committee of the coun-
cil of safety of South-Carolina, upon weighty and important matters relative to
the defence and security of these colonies.
Resolved, That it appears the British ministry and their agents have medi-
tated and are preparing to make attacks upon Charleston, in South-Carolina,
and several places in Virginia, and probably in North Carolina; and that it be
recommended to the conventions or committees of safety of the two former co-
lonies, and to the provincial council of the other, by all possible means, to make
a vigorous defence and opposition ; and that it be farther recommended to the
committee of safety of . and the provincial council of North-Carolina,
to meet together and confer and conclude upon such operations as they may
think most for their mutual interest.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. $21
e-
º
TUESDAY, January 2, 1776.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To James Chambers the sum of 25.8 dollars for his expenses from Cambridge.
To Judah Alden 50 dollars, advanced on account of expenses in attending
the French gentlemen. -
Ordered, That the above be paid.
Resolved, That general Schuyler be directed to have brigadier general Pres-
cot, lately made prisoner by the continental forces in Canada, i. into cus-
tody, and safely and securely kept until the further orders of this Congress.
Itesolved, That a copy of the above be sent immediately to general Schuy-
ler, and that the general beinformed by letter of the reasons which induced the
Congress to give such orders.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due to Egbert Dumond, on
account of expenses in bringing the prisoners, taken at St. John’s, from Kings-
ton, in New-York government, to Lancaster, in Pennsylvania, the sum of 2326.2
dollars.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the
petition of captains Paddock and Coffin, and after debate,
Itesolved, That the prayer of said petition be not granted. º
The committee on the state of New-York brought in their report, which was
read.
The report of captain Motte, with regard to the disposition of the officers
taken prisoners at St. John’s, was laid before Congress, and read.
The committee, to whom the report on lord Sterling’s letters was recommit-
ted, brought in their report, which being taken into consideration, the Con-
gress thereupon came to the following resolutions:
Resolved, That the president acquaint his lordship, that the Congress has
rovided against the inconvenience of vexatious arrests of the men inlisting
in the continental service. *
Resolved, That the barracks in the colony of New-Jersey be prepared for
the reception of such of the battalions as may not be in readiness to proceed
to New-York, and that the ministerial troops or prisoners at present occupy-
ing them, be accommodated in the said colony, in such manner, as the com-
mittee of safety for said colony, shall think most prudent and convenient.
That Mr. Lowry, the commissary, be directed to supply the said battalions
with stockings, and that the delegates for the colony of New-Jersey, transmit
to lord Sterling six dozen printed copies of the articles of war.
That considering not only the defenceless condition of the colony of New-
Jersey, for want of ammunition in case of an hostile invasion of that colony,
but the evident want of the assistance of those battalions for the defence of
New-York, where an attack of the enemy is most probably to be apprehended,
a requisition be made by the Congress to the committee of safety of Pennsyl-
vania, of four hundred weight of powder for the said battalions. º
That the same fire-wood, camp equipage, and barrack utensils be allowed
to each of the New-Jersey battalions as are allowed to the battalion raised in
Pennsylvania.
That the hundred stand of arms supplied by the colony of New-York for
the New-Jersey battalions, be paid for by the convention of New-Jersey; and
that in order to enable the said convention to make such payment, as well
as to furnish such of the men belonging to the said battalions, as are yet un-
provided with arms, the farther sum of 1000 dollars be advanced to the said
convention; and that the price of the arms be deducted out of the wages of
the privates belonging to the said battalions.
. That lord Sterling be directed to seize and secure all the ammunition and
warlike stores belonging to the enemy, which now are or hereafter may be im-
ported into the colony of New-Jersey, and keep them till he shall receive the
222 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
*—
*–- wr--
orders of Congress respecting them: And further, that he do, from time to
time, give aid and protection to all the friends of America, who may be em-
ployed in importing into the said colony, ammunition, or other commodities
not prohibited by the association and resolves of this Congress.
Whereas it has been represented to this Congress, that divers honest and
well-meaning, but uninformed people in these colonies, have, by the art and
address of ministerial agents, been deceived and drawn into erroneous opinions
respecting the American cause, and the probable issue of the present contest:
Resolved, That it be recommended to the different committees, and other
friends to American liberty, in the said colonies, to treat all such persons with
kindness and attention; to consider them as the inhabitants of a country de-
termined to be free, and to view their errors as proceeding rather from want
of information than want of virtue or public spirit; to explain to them the
origin, nature and extent of the present controversy; to acquaint them with
the fate of the numerous petitions presented to his majesty, as well by assem-
blies as Congresses, for reconciliation and redress of grievances: and that the
last from this Congress, humbly requesting the single favor of being heard,
like all the others, has proved unsuccessful; to unfold to them the various arts
of administration to ensnare and enslave us, and the manner in which we have
been cruelly driven to defend, by arms, those very rights, liberties and estates,
which we and our forefathers had so long enjoyed unmolested in the reigns of
his present majesty’s predecessors. And it is hereby recommended to all
conventions and assemblies in these colonies, liberally to distribute among the
people, the proceedings of this and the former Congress, the late speeches of
the great patriots in both houses of parliament relative to American grievances,
and such other phamphlets and papers as tend to elucidate the merits of the
American cause, the Congress being fully persuaded that the more our right
to the enjoyment of our ancient liberties and privileges is examined, the more
just and necessary our present opposition to ministerial tyranny will appear.
And, with respect to all such unworthy Americans, as, regardless of their
duty to their Creator, their country and their posterity, have taken part with
tour oppressors, and, influenced by the hope or possession of ignominious re-
wards, strive to recommend themselves to the bounty of administration,
by mirepresenting and traducing the conduct and principles of the friends of
American liberty; and opposing every measure formed for its preservation and
security, &
hººd, That it be recommended to the different assemblies, conventions
and committees or councils of safety in the United Colonies, by the most spee-
dy and effectual measures, to frustrate the mischievous machinations, and re-
strain the wicked practices of these men : And it is the opinion of this Con-
gress, that they ought to be disarmed, and the more dangerous among them,
either kept in safe custody, or bound with sufficient sureties to their good be-
haviour. *
And, in order that the said assemblies, conventions, committees or councils
of safety, may be enabled, with greater ease and facility to carry this resolution
into execution, *
Resolved, That they be authorized to call to their aid, whatever continental
troops, stationed in or near their respective colonies, may be conveniently
spared from their more immediate duty; and the commanding officers of such
troops, are hereby directed to afford the said assemblies, conventions, commit-
tees or councils of safety, all such assistance in executing this resolution, as
they i. require, and which, consistent with the good of the service, may be
supplied.
Resolved, That all detachments of continental tooops, which may be ordered
on the business in the foregoing resolution mentioned, be, while so employed,
under the direction and controul of the assemblies, conventions, committees or
councils of Safety aforesaid. .
Journals of congress, 1776. 223
—-a-º-º:
Resolved, That it be recommended to all the United Colonies, to aid each
other (on request from their respective assemblies, conventions, committees, or
councils of safety and county committees) on every emergency, and to culti-
vate, cherish and increase the present happy and necessary union, by a con-
tinual interchange of mutual good offices.
And whereas the execrable barbarity, with which this unhappy war has been
conducted on the part of our enemies, such as burning our defenceless towns
and villages, exposing their inhabitants, without regard to sex or age, to all
the miseries which loss of property, the rigour of the season, and inhuman de-
vastation can inflict, exciting domestic insurrections and murders, bribing sav-
ages to desolate our frontiers, and casting such of us as the fortune of war has
#. in their power, into gaols, there to languish in irons and in want, compel-
ing the inhabitants of Boston, in violation of the treaty, to remain confined
within the town, exposed to the insolence of the soldiery, and other enor-
mities, at the mention of which decency and humanity will ever blush, may
justly provoke the inhabitants of these colonies to retaliate.
Resolved, That it be recommended to them, to continue mindful that humani-
ty ought to distinguish the brave, that cruelty should find no admission ...;
a free people, and to take care that no page in the annals of America be staine
by a recital of any action which justice or Christianity may condemn, and to
rest assured that whenever retaliation may be necessary or tend to their securi-
ty, this Congress will undertake the disagreeable task.
Resolved, That the assemblies, conventions, or committees, or councils of
safety, be requested forthwith to transmit to this Congress, copies of all the
petitions, memorials, and remonstrances, which have been, by the respective
colonies, presented to the throne, or either house of parliament, since the year
1762, and that they also inform the Congress, whether any and what answers
were given to them.
Resolved, That Mr. Bartlett be appointed one of the committee of claims,
in the room of Mr. Langdom, and Mr. S. Adams in the room of Mr. Cushing,
who have leave of absence.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
-3- WEDNESDAY, January 3, 1776.
A letter from general Washington, dated the 25th of December, with sun-
dry papers enclosed, was read. *.
The committee of safety for Pennsylvania, having recommended sundry
gentlemen to be field officers of the four battalions ordered to be raised in
said colony, the Congress proceeded to the election of colonels, and the
ballots being taken and examined, the following gentlemen were chosen:
Arthur St. Clair, esq. John Shee, esq. Anthony Wayne, esq. Robert
Magaw, esq.
The Congress, taking into consideration the report of the secret committee,
came to the following resolutions:
Resolved, That the following goods and stores ought to be imported as soon
as possible, for the use of the United Colonies, viz.
60,000 striped blankets.
120,000 yards of 6-4 cloths, brown and blue, from 8s. to 6s, ster.
10,000 yards of do, different colours, for facings, at 4s.
3,000 pieces of duffils, or some such cloth.
100 m. Sorted needles.
50 m. do. none fine.
10 m. do. for sail cloth.
3,000 pieces of raven’s duck. e !
3,000 pieces ticklenburgs.
1,500 pieces oznaburgs.
224 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
*-a--- -- -
—A-
1,000 pieces vitrey.
4,000 pieces Hamburg dowlas.
20,000 stand of arms.
300 tons of lead.
1,000,000 of flints.
1,500 boxes of tin, and wire properly sorted for it.
Medicines, surgeons’ instruments, lint and bandages, in the whole, to the
amount of £2,000 sterling.
500 sheets of copper of different sorts.
Resolved. That the secret committee be empowered and directed to pursue
the most effectual measures for importing the foregoing articles. |
Resolved, That the farther consideration of this report be postponed.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To captain Edward Motte, for expenses, &c. in conducting the prisoners
taken at St. John’s, from Kingston, in the colony of New-York, to Lancaster,
in Pennsylvania, a balance of 367.7 dollars.
To Robert Erwin, wagon-master, for carriage of clothing and medicines to
Dobb's ferry and to Cambridge, 222.6 dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The committee on the state of New-York, brought in a farther report, which
being taken into consideration, was agreed to as fºllows:
Whereas a majority of the inhabitants of Queen’s county, in the colony of
New-York, being incapable of resolving to live and die freemen, and being
more disposed to quit their liberties than part with the little proportion of
their property necessary to defend them, have deserted the American cause, by
refusing to send deputies as usual to the convention of that colony; and avow-
ing by a public declaration, an unmanly design of remaining inactive specta-
tors of the present contest, vainly flattering themselves, perhaps, that should
Providence declare for our enemies, they may purchase their mercy and favor
at an easy rate; and, on the other hand, if the war should terminate in favor
of America, that then they may enjoy, without expense of blood or treasure,
all the blessings resulting from that liberty, which they, in the day of trial,
had abandoned, and in defence of which, many of their more virtuous neigh-
bors and countrymen had nobly died; and although the want of public
spirit, observable in these men, rather excites pity than alarm, there being
little danger to apprehend either from their prowess or example, yet it bein
reasonable, that those who refuse to defend their country, should be exclude
from its protection, and prevented from doing it injury : w
Resolved, That all such persons in Queen’s county, aforesaid, as voted
against sending deputies to the present convention of New-York, and named
in a list of delinquents in Queen’s county, published by the convention of
New-York, be put out of the protection of the United Colonies, and that all
trade and intercourse with them cease; that none of the inhabitants of that
county be permitted to travel or abide in any part of these United Colonies,
out of their said county, without a certificate from the convention or committee
of safety of the colony of New-York, setting forth, that such inhabitant is
a friend to the American cause, and not of the number of those who voted
against sending deputies to the said conventions; and that such of the said in-
habitants as shall be found out of the said . without such certificate, be
apprehended and imprisoned three months.
Resolved, That no attorney or lawyer ought to commence, prosecute, or de-
fend any action at law, of any kind, for any of the said inhabitants of Queen’s
county, who voted against sending deputies to the convention, as aforesaid;
and such attorney or lawyer as shall contravene this resolution, are enemies to
the American cause, and ought to be treated accordingly.
Resolved, That the convention or committee of safety of the colony of New-
York be requested to continue publishing, for a month, in all their gazettes or
JOURNALS 6F CONGRESS, 1776. 225
–-masº
newspapers, the names of all such of the inhabitants of Queen’s county, as
voted against sending deputies; and to give certificates, in the manner before
recommended, to . others of the said inhabitants, as are friends to American
liberty.
Å; it is recommended to all conventions, committees of safety, and others,
to be diligent in executing the above resolutions. *.
Resolved, That colonel Nathaniel Heard, of Woodbridge, in the colony of
New-Jersey, taking with him five or six hundred minute-men, under discreet
officers, do march to the western part of Queen’s county, and that colonel Wa:
terbury of Stanford, in the colony of Connecticut, with the like number of
minute-men, march to the eastern side of said county; that they confer toge-
ther, and endeavor to enter the said county on one day ; that they pro-
ceed to disarm every person in the said county, who voted against sending
deputies to the said convention, and cause them to deliver up their arms and
ammunition on oath, and that they take and confine in safe custody, till fur-
ther orders, all such as refuse compliance.
That they apprehend and secure, till further orders, the persons named as
principal men among the disaffected in the said county, in a summons for their
* before the convention of New-York, issued the 12th of December
ast, viz.
Of Jamaica township, captain Benjamin Whitehead, Charles Arden, Joseph
JFrench, esq. Johannes Polhemus.
Newtown, Nathaniel Moor, John Moor, sen. Samuel Hallet, John Moor, jun,
William Weyman, John Shoals, Jeromus Rapalje.
Flushing, John Willet.
Hamstead, Justice Gilbert Van Wyck, Daniel Kissam, esq. of Cowneck,
captain Jacob Mott, Thomas Cornhill, of Rockaway, Gabriel G. Ludlow,
Richard Hewlet, captain Charles Hicks, Dr. Samuel Martin, Justice Samuel
Clowes.
Oyster-Bay, Justice Thomas Smith, of Hog-island, Justice John Hewlet,
captain George Weeks, Dr. David Brooks, Justice John Townsend.
And all such other persons who shall be found in arms, or who shall oppose
the carrying the above resolutions into effect, as the said colonel Heard or
colonel Waterbury may think prudent to detain.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the said colonel Heard and colonel
Waterbury, to execute the business entrusted to them by the foregoing resolu-
tions, with all possible despatch, secrecy, order, and humanity.
Resolved, That the sum of 500 dollars be forthwith-transmitted, with cer-
tified copies of these resolutions, to each of them, the said colonel Heard and
colonel Waterbury, and that they, on their return, report to this Congress, a
true state of their expenditure and proceedings.
A letter from the committee of Frederick, in Maryland, brought by the
officer who had the charge of bringing down Connolly and his associates, was
aid before Congress and read.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the committee of safety of Pennsyl-
vania, to carry into execution the resolution of Congress for confining, said
Connolly, and his associates, in the gaol of Philadelphia, and that they take
their examination.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, January 4, 1776.
Resolved, That an additional battalion be raised in the county of Cumber-
land, in the colony of Pennsylvania, to consist of the same number of men
and officers, and to have the same pay and allowance, as the others raised in
said colony. *
Vol. I. 29
226 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
-*-------
Resolved, That one company of each of the five battalions last ordered to
be raised in Pennsylvania, consist of expert riflemen.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the committee of safety of Pennsyl-
vania, to see the foregoing resolutions carried into execution.
Resolved, That, in all elections of officers by Congress, where more than
one are elected on the same day, to commands of the same. rank, they shall
take rank of each other according to their election, and the entry of their
names in the minutes, and their commissions shall be numbered to shew their
riority.
p º'congress then proceeded to the election of other field officers of the
four battalions ordered to be raised in Pennsylvania, and the ballots being
taken and examined, the following gentlemen were chosen:
Lieutenant-colonels: Lambert Cadwallader, William Allen, jun. Francis
Johnson, Joseph Penrose, esqrs.
Majors: Joseph Wood, George Nagle, Henry Bicker, Nicholas Hausicker,
CSC; I’S,
º, committee of claims report, that there is due,
To James Whitehead, for provisions for the prisoners taken on board the
Rebecca and Mary, the sum of 64 dollars.
To the committee of New-Brunswick, per account rendered, the sum of
214.9 dollars, to be paid to William Livingston, esq. and by him forwarded to
the said committee.
To Furman and Hunt, of Trenton, for provisions, horse hire, &c. the sum
of 68.2 dollars.
To the committee of inspection and observation of the city and liberties of
Philadelphia, for 187,046 flints, by them purchased, agreeable to the order of
Congress, the sum of 737 dollars.
To sundry persons, per list, for signing the continental bills of credit, the
sum of 1165.7 dollars, and that an order be given to the treasurers for the pay-
ment of the same, agreeable to the said list.
To the committee of Frederick-Town, Maryland, for expenses incurred b
Connolly, Cameron and Smith, during their confinement, the sum of 74 dollars,
and that the same be paid to the delegates of Maryland.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid accordingly. *
Resolved, That a commissary be appointed to provide the three companies
ordered to Northampton, in Virginia, with rations while on their march, and
during their stay in that country.
That the appointment of said commissary be deferred till to-morrow.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on
the state of New-York: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the same be postponed till to-morrow, and that the delegates
of New-York be desired to request the attendance of the gentlemen sent to
Congress by the convention of their colony.
Resolved, That major Preston have liberty to chuse the place of his resi-
dence, consistent with former resolutions of Congress, and that the president
take his parole.
The committee appointed to consider what allowance ought to be made to
officers who are prisoners, brought in their report:
Ordered, That the same be taken into consideration on Saturday next.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
$ FRIDAY, January 5, 1776.
There being a vacancy in the first of the Pennsylvania battalions, by the pro-
motion of captain Allen, the Congress proceeded to the election of a person to
supply said vacancy, and the ballots being taken, Benjamin Davis, oldest lieu-
tenant in said battalion, was elected.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 227
Resolved, That the sum of ten thousand dollars, be struck, for the purpose
of exchanging ragged and torn bills of the continental currency; that d. bills,
making this sum, be of the same denominations, printed under the inspection
of the same persons, and signed and numbered by the same signers, as the last
emission, and that they be lodged in the treasury, to be applied to the sole pur-
pose aforesaid.
Resolved, That all committees, and others, who have had public money put
into their hands, lay upon the table, an account of the expenditure of the same.
The committee appointed to consider the letter of general Washington,
dated the 18th of December, and the enclosed papers, brought in a report upon
that part, which relates to James Lovell, who has long been, and still is, de-
tained a close prisoner in Boston, by order of general Howe, which being taken
into consideration, was agreed to, and is as follows:
That it appears to your committee, that the said Mr. Lovell hath, for years
past, been an able advocate for the liberties of America and mankind; that
by his letter to general Washington, which is a part of said enclosed papers,
he exhibits so striking an instance of disinterested patriotism, as strongly re-
commends him to the particular notice of this continent.
Whereupon, Resolved, That Mr. James Lovell, an inhabitant of Boston,
now held a close prisoner there, by order of general Howe, has discovered,
under the severest trials, the warmest attachment to public liberty, an inflexible
fidelity to his country; that by his late letter to general Washington, he has
given the strongest evidence of disinterested public affection, in refusing to
listen to terms offered for his relief, till he could be informed by his countrymen
that they were compatible with their safety and honor.
Resolved, That it is deeply to be regretted that a British general can be
found degenerate enough so ignominiously and cruelly to treat a citizen, who
is so eminently virtuous :
Resolved, That it be an instruction to general Washington to make an offer
of governor Skene in exchange for the said Mr. Lovell and his family.
Resolved, That general Washington be desired to embrace the first opportu-
nity which may offer, of giving some office to Mr. Lovell equal to his abilities,
and which the public service may require.
Ordered, That a copy of the foregoing resolutions be transmitted to the gene-
ral as speedily as possible.
Resolved, That the president write to general Washington, and desire him
to inform Congress, what rank the aids-de-camp of the general officer should
have in the army of the United Colonies.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due to Adam Fisher, for ex-
penses attending, his conducting Connolly and Cameron from Frederick, in
Maryland, to Philadelphia, and his charges back again for himself and the men,
the sum of 156.dollars.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
The º: having conferred with the gentlemen sent by the convention
of New-York, resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on the
state of that colony, and the same was agreed to:
Whereupon, Resolved, That no farther fortifications be erected at Martler's
Roºk, on Hudson’s river, and that a point of land at Puplopen's kill, on the
said river, be without delay effectually fortified.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention, or in their recess, to
the committee of safety, of New-York, to carry into execution the above
resolution.
Aesolved, That the delegates of New-J ersey and Connecticut be directed to
take the necessary steps for carrying into execution the resolutions of Congress
passed on Wednesday last, respecting the inhabitants of Queen's county.
A memorial from the inhabitants of the town of Newport was presented to
Congress, and read:
228 Journals of congress, 1776,
*
Ordered, That the same be referred for consideration till to-morrow.
Resolved, That Mr. Paine be added to the committee on general Schuyler's
letters.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, January 6, 1776.
Information being given to Congress, that a quantity of powder was arrived
at Great-Egg Harbour; of which a part was addressed to Congress by Mr.
Parsons, a part consigned to Mr. Webster, of Philadelphia, and a part to ano-
ther gentleman in said city:
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to get the powder address-
ed to Congress, removed to Philadelphia, and to purchase, for the use of the
United Colonies, the other parcels of powder.
Resolved, That one ton of the powder arrived, be delivered to the committee
for fitting out armed vessels, for the use of said armed vessels.
A letter from the committee of Lancaster, dated the 3d of January, was
received, and read :
Also, a letter from an officer in Lisbon, dated the 23d of October last:
Resolved, That these letters, as well as the last received from Lancaster,
and those formerly received from Lisbon, be referred to the committee of
correspondence.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the memorial from the inhabi-
tants of Newport, and the papers accompanying it; and, thereupon, came to
, the following resolution :
Resolved, That the said memorial be referred to the consideration of the
general assembly of the colony of Rhode-Island. -
The committee, to whom it was referred to consider how the share of prizes,
allotted to the captors, ought to be divided between the officers and men,
brought in their report, which, being taken into consideration, was agreed to
as follows:
Resolved, That the commander in chief have one-twentieth part of the said
allotted prize-money, taken by any ship or ships, armed vessel or vessels, un-
der his orders and command. -
That the captain of any single ship or armed vessel, have two-twentieth
parts of his share, but, if more ships or armed vessels be in company when a
prize is taken, then the two-twentieth parts to be divided amongst all the said
captains. *
A. the captains of marines, lieutenants of the ships or armed vessels, and
masters thereof, share together, and have three twentieth parts divided
amongst them equally, of all prizes taken when they are in company.
That the lieutenants of marines, surgeons, chaplains, pursers, boatswain,
gunners, carpenters, the masters’ mates, and the secretary of the fleet, share
together, and have two-twentieth parts and one-half of a twentieth part divi-
ded among them, equally of all prizes taken when they are in company.
That the following petty warrant and petty officers, viz. (allowing for each
ship, six midshipmen; for each brig, four midshipmen, and each sloop, two
midshipmen, one captain’s clerk, one surgeon’s mate, one steward, one sail-
maker, one cooper, one armorer, two boatswain’s mates, two gunner’s mates,
two carpenter's mates, one cook, one cockswain, two serjeants of marines for
each ship, and one serjeant for each brig and sloop) have three-twentieth parts
divided among them equally, and when a prize is taken by any ship or vessel on
* board or in company of which the commander in chief is, then the commander
in chief’s cook or cockswain to be added to this allotment, and have their
shares with these last mentioned. w
That the remaining eight-twentieth parts, and one-half of the twentieth part,
be divided among the rest of the ship or ship’s companies, as it may happen,
share and share alike. \
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 229
That no officer or man have any share but such as are actually on board their
several vessels, when any prize or prizes are taken, excepting only such as may
have been ordered on board any other prizes before taken, or sent away by his
or their commanding officers.
The committee on general Schuyler’s setters, &c. brought in a further re-
port, which was read :
Resolved, That the consideration thereof be postponed to Monday next.
A letter from general Schuyler, dated the 30th of December, enclosing co-
pies of letters from general Montgomery and general Wooster, being received,
was read. -
Adjourned to Monday next atten o’clock.
MONDAY, January 8, 1776.
A letter from general Schuyler, dated the 26th of December, enclosing a co-
py of a letter from general Montgomery, dated December 5th, and a list of the
ordnance sent to Cambridge, also a letter from Baltimore, enclosing an affida-
vit of capt. Horn, being received, were read.
The Congress, taking into consideration the report of the committee on ge-
neral Schuyler’s letters, thereupon came to the following resolutions:
Resolved, That shipwrights be immediately sent from New-York and Phila-
delphia to general Schuyler, or the commander in chief of the forces at Ticon-
deroga, to be employed by him in constructing a number of batteaus, not ex-
ceeding one hundred, for transporting troops, with their baggage, from that place
into Canada, whenever it may be found necessary. *
That a sufficient number of suitable men be engaged for rowing said batteaus;
*. that a large quantity of provisions and siores be sent this winter to fort
eorge. -
That general Schuyler be desired to have the river St. Lawrence, above and
below Quebec, well explored, and to determine upon proper places, for oppos-
ing, by armed boats or otherwise, any attempts of the enemy to penetrate that
country by the river; and that he give orders for constructing speedily as many
such boats as he shall judge necessary.
That two shipwrights be immediately sent from Philadelphia, to be employ-
ed under the direction of the committee of inspection at Albany, in construct-
ing scows for facilitating the passage over Hudson’s river.
Resolved, That the provision heretofore made for an hospital in the northern
army, when it was more numerous than it is now, is sufficient.
Resolved, That the convention of New-York be desired to send three thou-
sand bushels of salt, besides what general Schuyler hath already ordered to be
brought to Ticonderoga.
Resolved, That the governor of Connecticut, the general assemblies of Mas-
sachusetts-Bay and New-Hampshire, and the convention of New-York, be writ-
ten to forthwith, by the delegates of the said colonies respectively, to furnish
general Schuyler with the account of money paid to any persons in the army
under his command, specifying the names of those to whom the money was
paid by their order.
*ºlved, That the contract made by general Schuyler, to allow one-twelfth
part of a dollar per day, for billeting money to every one of the men, who re-
inlist in the northern army, until they can march to the place where provisions
may be delivered to them, be made good,
§esolved, That the officers of the northern army, be accountable for such
public stores issued to them, as may be lost through carelessness by their re-
spective corps, and that the value thereof be deducted out of the pay of those
who have embezzled or wasted the same.
# **, Tº this Congress does approve of the raising a battalion of ca-
nadians, and of the appointment of James Livingston, esq. colonel thereof.
Q30 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
*——
: Resolved, That nine battalions, including that of Canadians under colonel
Livingston, be kept up and maintained the present year for the defence of Ca-
nada.
Resolved, That the first Pennsylvania battalion, under colonel Bull, and the
second New-Jersey battalion, under colonel Maxwell, be ordered to march im-
mediately to Albany, and there put themselves under the command of general
Schuyler, and that the orders given for the march of three companies of colonel
Bull’s battalion to Accomack and Northampton be countermanded.
And, to make up the rest of the battalions voted for the defence of Canada,
that one battalion be raised in New-Hampshire, one in Connecticut, and one in
New-York; that two battalions be formed out of the troops now in Canada, and
that general Montgomery be desired to recommend proper persons for officers
in said battalions; and that one of the five battalions, lately ordered to be rais-
ed in Pennsylvania, be destined for Canada.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to devise ways and means
for furnishing the battalions destined for Canada, with provisions, and for ex-
pediting their march.
The members chosen, Mr. Floyd, Mr. Deane, and Mr. M'Kean.
. Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be deferred till to-
II]. Ol’I'OW.
Information being given to Congress, that about fifty-seven tons of salt-petre
were arrived at Philadelphia, and about fifteen tons of powder at New-York,
for sale :
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to treat for the purchase of
the salt-petre, and enquire how it may be most speedily manufactured into pow-
.der, and report to Congress.
* That Mr. P. Livingston, Mr. Alsop, Mr. Jay, and Mr. Lewis, be directed
to purchase, on the best terms they can, for the use of the United Colonies, the
powder arrived at New-York, and forward the same, with all possible expedi-
tion, under a guard, to the camp at Cambridge.
Resolved, That the convention or committee of safety of Maryland, be re-
quested to order three companies of the minute-men in the service of that
colony, to march immediately from thence to the counties of Accomack and
Northampton, in Virginia, instead of the forces that were directed to go thither
from Pennsylvania, and to lay before Congress the accounts of their subsist-
ence and pay, which shall be paid out of the continental treasury.
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania be desired to send
five hundred pounds weight of powder to the colony of Virginia, for the use
of the forces to be employed in the counties of Accomack and Northampton.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
A TUESDAY, January 9, 1776.
A letter from Mr. M. Tilghman, with sundry papers enclosed, also some des-
patches from governor Franklin, and a letter from C. Skinner, which were in-
tercepted, were laid before Congress, and read.
Resolved, That a letter be written to Mr. Tilghman, informing him, that the
Hornet and Wasp are under orders to sail to the capes of Delaware, and that
such vessels, as are ready to sail, may take the benefit of that convoy.
That the committee for fitting out armed vessels, be directed to give orders
to the captains of the Hornet and Wasp, to take under their convoy, such ves-
sels as are ready to sail.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Michael Conolly, for expenses in conducting captain John Livingston
and lieutenant Anstruther from Kingston to Lancaster, the sum of 250 dollars.
d i. Richard Butler, for necessaries' furnished five Indians, the sum of 49.3
()!!?!?’S.
f
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 231
--
To Joseph Cowperthwaite, the sum of 419.6 dollars, for expenses in-con-
ducting cash to Cambridge.
Ordered, That the above be paid.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to enquire into the con-
duct of the officers who are prisoners, and the manner in which they are at
present subsisted, and report thereon.
The members chosen, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Dyer, and Mr. Floyd.
Ordered, That a certified copy of the intercepted letter of Mr. Cortland
Skinner, be sent to the committee of safety for New-Jersey :
That orders be sent to lord Sterling, to take with him a sufficient force, and
immediately apprehend and keep in safe custody the said Cortland Skinner,
of Amboy, till further orders from this Congress.
That he carry said Cortland Skinner before the committee of safety of the
colony of New-Jersey, for examination.
That the said committee be desired to transmit his examination to Congress.
Resolved, That the militia raised in the counties of Orange and Ulster, in
the colony of New-York, by order of the Congress, for the support of the fort
lately erected on Hudson’s river, be discharged, except those stationed in the
fort, who shall also be discharged whenever other troops arrive there to supply
their places; and that it be recommended to the committee of safety of said
colony, to see that this resolve be carried into execution.
Resolved, That 500,000 dollars be sent to the pay-master general, for the use
of the army in the Massachusetts-Bay.
That the delegates of Pennsylvania be directed to count and forward the
same, with all convenient speed, under a guard of an officer and two men.
The Congress resuming the consideration of the report of the committee
on general Schuyler’s letters, &c. thereupon came to the following resolutions:
Resolved, That colonel W. Schaick, lieutenant-colonel Yates, and major
Gansevoort, be continued in the service of the United Colonies, and that they
take the command of the battalion to be levied in the colony of New-York.
That captain Lamb be appointed commander of the artillery in the north-
ern department, with the rank of major, and that he be allowed 50 dollars per
month, from the first day of the present month, as a reward for his activity
and spirited conduct in the last campaign.
That no postage be paid for any letters to or from private soldiers, while
engaged in actual service in the defence of the United Colonies; and that such
letters be franked by some person authorized for that purpose, by the com-
manding officer of the department.
That a letter be written to general Schuyler by the president, informing him,
that it is the opinion of Congress, he should proceed to have the conduct of
lieutenant Halsey enquired into, by a court-martial, giving him previous no-
tice to appear in his own defence, and that such sentence should be passed on
him, as such cºurt-martial shall think just, and if the said lieutenant Halsey
shall decline td submit his conduct to such examination and sentence, that then
all arrears of pay due to him be stopped ; to enable him to give discharges to
such officers as have quitted the service; to assure him, that we have great
confidence in his attention to the public interest, and rely, that he will give to
the proper officers in his department, such orders, as will procure indemnifica-
tion to the public, for any embezzlement or waste of its stores, or monies; to
empower him to remit to such of the troops, raised in the colony of New-York,
**y inlist, any right we may have to stop wages for under-clothes deliv-
ered to them; to desire he will communicate to Mr. Price the sense this Con-
gress have of his friendly offices to general Montgomery, in favor of the Ameri-
can cause; to return him our thanks for the same, and assure him, immediate
measures shall be taken for replacing the monies he has advanced; to notify
to colonel Easton Oºr approbation of his late services, and that we shall re-
* tain in our minds a just sense of them.
Q32 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
That general Schuyler be directed to appoint Mr. John M'Pherson, a major
in one of the battalions ordered to be raised out of the troops in Canada.
That a conductor of artillery, a superintendent of the arms, a barrack-mas-
ter, and store-keeper, be appointed to the northern army, and that general
Schuyler be desired to recommend proper persons to Congress for those
offices.
That the deputy pay-master general have liberty to appoint under him, two
assistant pay-masters, who shall each receive 262-3 dollars per month, for
‘their trouble and services.
That all the officers and soldiers in the northern department be paid in per-
son by the deputy pay-master general, or the assistants to be appointed by
him in consequence of the foregoing resolve.
That a communication be forthwith opened between Skenesborough and fort
Ann, and that Woodcreek be cleared for that purpose.
That it be recommended to the committee of safety of the province of New-
York, to appoint proper persons to enquire into the propriety and practi-
cability of obstructing or lessening the depth of water in the Narrows,
or in any other place at the entrance of New-York, or of any way of fortifying
that pass, so as to prevent the entrance of the enemy ; and also to enquire
whether the depth of water in Hudson’s river, below the battery, may not
easily be lessened, so as to prevent large ships passing up, and to make an es-
timate of the expense, and report their proceedings in the premises immediate-
ly to Congress.
That to-morrow be assigned for the choice of two brigadier-generals, viz.
one for the army in Massachusetts-Bay, and the other for the army in the
northern department.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, January 10, 1776.
A letter from Rachel Stelle, with an account for the subsistence of officers,
was laid before Congress.
Ordered, That the same be referred to the committee on the conduct of
officers, &c. *
Resolved, That the commissioners for Indian affairs, in the northern de-
partment, be directed to pay the rev. Mr. Wheelock 500 dollars, agreeable
to a resolution of Congress, passed the 12th day of July last. *…
The committee appointed to devise ways and means for facilitating the
march of the battalions destined for Canada, brought in their report, which
was read, and the Congress therewith concurring, i
Resolved, That three first lieutenants, eight second lieutenants, one ensign,
and a quarter-master, be appointed to supply the vacancies in colonel Buſi's
battalion.
That for the said battalion there be provided 688 caps, 688 pair of mittens,
688 pair of stockings, 688 pair of leggings, 688 pair of shoes, 688 haversacks,
688 slings for firelocks, 1200 shirts, 688 waistcoats, 500 pair of breeches, 300
blankets, 64 pitching axes, and 9 baggage wagons.
That for colonel Maxwell’s battalion there be provided 688 haversacks, 688
cartouch boxes and cross belts, 688 tomahawks, 64 pitching axes, and 9 bag-
gage wagons.
That both battalions be paid up to the first day of February next.
That the battalions march by companies, and that the companies follow
each other at the distance of one day’s march ; that the quarter-masters and
commissaries precede their respective battalions a few days, in order to pro-
vide lodgings and provisions on the road.
That the colonels be allowed six rations.
Lieutenant-colonels, five ditto.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 233
=ºmmº-º-º-º:
Majors, four ditto.
Captains, three ditto. º
Subaltern and staff officers, two ditto, or money in lieu thereof. e
That it be recommended to the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, to sup-
ly colonel Bull's battalion with the foregoing articles, or such of them as they
É. not already provided them with, agreeable to former resolutions of Con-
gress; and that all the articles furnished the men, more than those allowed in
lieu of bounty, be deducted out of their pay. e
That Thomas Lowry be directed to provide the articles for colonel Max-
well’s battalion, and that all the articles furnished the men, more than those
allowed in lieu of bounty, be deducted out of their pay. .
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favor of Thomas
Lowry, for the sum of 35,000 dollars, for the use of the battalions raised in
New-Jersey, he to be accountable for the same. g
Nº. to the order of the day, the Congress proceeded to the election of
two brigadier-generals, and the ballots being taken and examined, Joseph Fry,
esq. was elected for the army in the Massachusetts-Bay, Benedict Arnold, esq.
for the army in the northern department.
The committee of safety for Pennsylvania, having recommended a. number
of persons for field officers to the sixth battalion ordered to be raised in said
colony, the Congress proceeded to the election, and the balfots being taken
and examined,
William Irwine, esq. was elected colonel,
Thomas Hartley, esq. lieutenant-colonel,
James Dunlap, esq. major.
Resolved, That another battalion be raised in New-J ersey, on the same terms
as the ºther two raised in the said colony.
ºesolved, That the pay of the troops serving in, and destined for, Canada,
be the same as that of the army at Cambridge; and that this pay commence to
the Pennsylvania and New-J ersey battalions, from the time they set out on
their march to Canada.
The Congress considering the great distance from colonel Heard to colonel
Waterbury, the difficulty o co-operating with each other in their expedition
into Queen’s county; thereupon, *
*esolved, That lord Sterling be desired to furnish colonel Heard with three
Sºmpanies under his command, who are to join colonel Heard with the minute-
*en by him raised, and proceed, as soon as may be, on the expedition into
Queen's county, for which colonel Heard and colonel Waterbury were ap-
Pºinted, and that colonel Heard be desired to send immediately an express to
* Waterbury, with a copy of this resolution, and inform him that his
*.*, will not be required on this occasion.
*esolved, That a committee of five be appointed to take into consideration
the state of these colonies, and report as soon as possible what number of
º: in their opinion, will be necessary for the defence of the same.
and M !". shown, Mr. Duane, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Hooper, Mr. E. Rutledge,
Resolved, That the colon —ſº a rol: lied with one ton of
powder by the secret cº,: North-Carolina be supp
* {. 9f claims reported, that there is due,
9 the Committee of the upper district of Frederick county, Maryland, the
. º dollars, to be paid to Daniel Hester; of which 571 dollars to be
*ged tº captain Cressop; company, 77 1-3 dollars to captain Price’s com-
Pºnd the remainder tº the jº.
o Furman and Hunt, * * º wº
178.2 dollars. for provisions, &c. furnished to prisoners, the sum of
T9 William Shed, for att Orº tº º
4775, the sum of 52.dollars. endance as messenger to the 4th of December,
OL. e 30
.*
234 JQURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
"Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, January 11, 1776,
Kºlº, That it be recommended to the convention or committee of safety
of New-York, to endeavor to obtain a release of lieutenant — Tiley, of
brigadier Wooster's regiment, now confined on board the Asia man of war, by
exchanging for him an officer of the same rank of the British troops in our
custody.
#. That a committee of three be appointed to prepare instructions to
the officers in the recruiting service.
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Dyer, and Mr. Harrison.
The Con ress taking into cqnsideration the report of the committee on the
. of .#. emitted by this Congress, thereupon came to the following re-
solution :
Whereas it appears to this Congress, that several evil disposed persons, in
order to obstruct and defeat the efforts of the United Colonies, in defence of
their just rights, have attempted to depreciate the bills of credit emitted by
the authority of this Congress,
#ésplved, therefore, That if any person shall hereafter he so lost to all virtue
and regard fºr his country, as to refuse to receive said bills in payment, or ob-
struct and discourage the currency or circulation thereof, and shall be duly
convicted by the committee of the city, county, or district, or in case of appeal
from their decision, by the assembly, convention, council or committee of
safety of the colony where he shall reside, such person shall be deemed, pub-
lished, and treated as an enemy of his country, and precluded from all trade
of intercourse with the inhabitants of these colonies.
Ordered, That the foregoing resolve be immediately published.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of the com-
mittee of safety of Pennsylvania, for the sum of 6000 dollars, for the use of
the first Pennsylvania battalion, the said committee to be accountable for the
Sàſſle,
*muli, of the field officers of the Pennsylvania battalions, setting
forth the inconveniencies that will arise from the battalions consisting of seven
º companies, was presented to Congress and read: t
Ørdered, That he same be referred for consideration till to-morrow.
Adjäuined to ten o'clock to-morrow.


FRIDAY, January 12, 1776.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Henry Dewson, for provisions to captain Ross's company, the sum of
27.5 dollars.
Fr m Turbett Francis, esq. one of the commissioners for Indian affairs in
the northern department, a balance in his hands amounting to 194 dollars.
To Wolkert P. Douw, another of the commissioners of said department, ex-
penses attending the treaty at Albany, a balance amounting to 2171.9 dollars,
and that there will remain in his hands, two matrasses, about fifteen gallons of
wińe, some spirits, and some boards, belonging to the colonies.
Ordered, That the sums due to Henry Dewson, and Volkert P. Douw, esq.
be paid; the latter through the hands of James Duane, esq.
the committee appointed to enquire into the conduct of the officers who are
prisoners, and the manner in which they are at present subsisted, brought in
their report, which was agreed to as follows:
Resolved, That the conduct of the officers at Trenton, though in other res-
º unexceptionable, is, as to their manner of living, exceedingly extravagant,
ey being boarded at taverns, and the inn-keepers supplying them in a luxu-
rious manner, on the credit of the continent: * t
* }

JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 235
That the Congress will, for the future, allow two dollars per week for the
board and lodgings of officers, who are prisoners, (for which sum the may have
decent lodgings) to be repaid by the officers before they are released from their
captivity. , , , , , nº '
That the accounts of the several inn-keepers against the officers be paid by
º continent, which are also to be repaid by the said officers before their dis-
Chal’ºe. 3 * * * *
* #. no tavern-keeper supply the said officers, for the future, on the credit
of the continent. * * * * *
That the officers now at Trenton, be directed to remove to some other place
at a proper distance from the public post-road. • * , aw e < *
That the officers at Trenton have liberty to chuse the places of their resi-
dence, the choice being made consistent with former resolutions of Congrès;
That a copy of the above resolutions, together with a copy of the resolution
granting . liberty to sell bills for their subsistence, be transmitted to
the several committees, where officers who are prisoners reside ; and that the
said committees be directed to apply to the said officers for their bills to dis-
charge the debts already incurred, and also to inform them, it is expected they
will from time to time draw for their future subsistence. } §. "
Ordered, That Rachel Stille's account for subsistence of officers to the 4th
of January 1776, amounting to 423.6 dollars, be paid. ! . . * * : * >
The Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into con;
sideration the trade of the United Colonies, and after some time, the president
resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that the committee had taken into
consideration the matter to them referred, but not having come to a conclusion,
desired leave to sit again. * e * * * * *
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into further consideration the trade of the United Co-
lonies. -
A memorial from the field-officers of the first Pennsylvania battalion, was
presented to Congress: # -
Ordered, That the same be referred till to-morrow.
The several matters to this day referred being postponed,
Adjourned till ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, January 13, 1776.
A letter from general Washington, dated January the 4th, 1776; also a
letter from the committee of safety of New-York, dated January the 3d, being
received, were read: º * * * * *
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to take into consideration
the letter from the committee of safety of New-York, and to confer with Mr.
Rºmans, and report to Congress. } • *
The members chosen, Mr. Paine, Mr. Dyer, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Wythe, and
Mr. W. Livingston. W. -> *
The secret committee having made report respecting the purchase of the
salºpetre lately imported,”
*solved, That the said committee be directed to purchase the salt-petre on
the ºrms they can, and have it manufactured into gun-powder as soon as
possible. wº-
*solved. That the secret committee be directed to supply colonel Heard
with 200 pounds of gun-powder, to enable him to carry into execution the
orders of º f
Resolved, That John Morgan be promoted to the rank of first lieutenant, in
one of the companies of colonel Bull's battalion.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
236 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
MONDAY, January 15, 1776.
A paragraph of a letter from Peter Timothy, secretary to the provincial con-
vention and committee of safety of South-Carolina, dated January 5th, to C.
Gadson, esq. was read, informing that the said convention have resolved to
continue the delegates, and have constituted any two of them to be a quo-
rum to represent said colony. *
A letter from general Washington, dated the 31st of December, 1775, with
sundry papers enclosed, among which, a draught of captain Matthews on the
treasury of Virginia, for # 100, lawful money, advanced him by the general ;
also two letters from lord Sterling, dated January 8th and 11th, and a letter
. governor Trumbull, with three papers enclosed, being received, were
Tea.01 : *
Resolved, That the letter from general Washington be referred to a com-
mittee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Adams, and Mr. Wilson.
That the letters from lord Sterling be referred to a committee of five.
The members chosen, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. Floyd, Mr.
Ward, and Mr. Alexander. *
That the letter from governor Trumbull, with the enclosed papers, be re-
... ferred to the committee appointed to confer with Mr. Romans.
A lettor from the committee of safety of New-York, dated January 11th,
1776, was read: <
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee on the state of the colonies.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to make an estimate of the
number of cannon, that may be wanted for the defence of the United Colonies,
and to devise ways and means for procuring them, and that it be an instruc-
tion to said committee to enquire what size cannon can be cast in these colonies.
The members chosen, Mr. Wisner, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Rogers, Mr. Allen,
and Mr. Paine. à
Resolved, That no bought indented servants be employed on board the fleet,
or in the army of the United Colonies, without the consent of their masters.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Jacob Hiltzheimer, for expresses, the sum of 356.1 dollars.
To Jonathan Trumbull, jun. for his expenses to Philadelphia, and returning
to New-York with money, the sum of 99.7 dollars.
To Thomas Apty, for boarding several prisoners, 109.6 dollars.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid. *
Resolved, That it be recommended to the committee of safety of Pennsyl-
vania, to enquire into the characters of the recruits or privates taken on board
the Rebecca and Frances transport, and to dismiss id: of them as they judge
may, with safety to the colonies, be discharged. .
Hi. Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into con-
sideration the state of the trade of the United Colonies; and, after some time,
the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that the committee
had taken into their farther consideration the matter to them referred, but
that not having come to a conclusion, they desired him to move for leave to sit
àº'à llì.
§ Resolved, That this Congress will, on Friday next, resolve itself into a com-
3. of the whole, to take into farther consideration the trade of the United
olonies
Resolved, That captain Matthew’s draft on the treasury of Virginia, be de-
livered to the delegates of that colony; and that they be desired to receive the
money, and pay the same to the continental treasurers. ^.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 237
*—
_*-
TUESDAY, January 16, 1776.
The colony of Connecticut having appointed new delegates, the same at-
tending, produced the credentials of their appointment, which were read as
follows:
“At a general Assembly of the governor and company of the Fnglish colony of Connecticut, in
New-England, in America, holden at New-Haven, in said colony, on the second Thursday of
October, Anno Domini 1775. *4.
“Resolved, By this assembly, that Roger Sherman, Oliver Wolcott, Samuel
Huntington, Titus Hosmer, and William Williams, esqrs. be, and they are
hereby appointed delegates to represent this colony at the general Congress
of the United Colonies in America, for the year ensuing, and until new be cho-
sen; that is to say, the said Roger Sherman, Oliver Wolcott, and Samuel Hun-
tington, esqrs. do attend said Congress, and on the failure of either of the said
#. by sickness, or otherwise, then the said Titus Hosmer, or William
illiams, esqrs. are to supply the place or places of any or either of the said
three gentlemen first named, in such manner, that three of said delegates, and
three only, do attend said Congress at any one time; and the said three dele-
gates, or any or either of them, who shall be presentin said Congress, are here-
by fully authorized and empowered to represent this colony in said Congress,
to consult, advise, and resolve upon measures necessary to be taken and pur-
sued for the defence, security and preservation of the rights and liberties of
the said United Colonies, and for their common safety; and of such their pro-
ceedings and resolves they do transmit authentic copies, from time to time, to
the general assembly of this colony. That the said delegates now appointed
do repair to, and take their seats in said Congress, by the first day of January
next, in case said Congress shall be then sitting, or as soon after as said Con-
gress shall be convened; and that the said gentlemen, who are now attending
said Congress in behalf of this colony, do continue in their said office until the
gentlemen now chosen, and directed to attend in manner aforesaid, shall ar-
rive at said Congress. t
“A true copy of record, examined by
GEORGE WYLLYS, Secretary.”
A letter from Mr. Lewis, dated January 8th, was read, recommending a
stranger to the notice of Congress.
Ordered, That the same be referred to the committee on the qualifications
of persons applying for offices. .*
Resolved, Fº a member, in the room of Mr. Dyer, be added to the com-
mittee appointed to draw up instructions to the officers employed in the re-
cruiting service.
Resolved, That the several petitions of gentlemen, praying to be appointed
. in the Pennsylvania battalions, be referred to the committee on quali-
Càtl() (1S,
Application being made in behalf of Mr. Judge and the owner of a vessel
lately arrived in Delaware, for leave to export provisions to the amount of the
cargoes by them imported:
*esolved, That this be referred to the secret committee.
Resolved, That two members be added to the secret committee:
The members chosen, Mr. Hewes and Mr. Alexander.
The committee on the state of the colonies brought in a report, which being
-taken into consideration, *
. Resolved, That another battalion be raised in the colony of North-Carolina,
in order to defeat any attempt which may be made in opposition to the mea-
sus rºommended by the Continental Congress.
...” That the farther consideration of the report be referred till to-
Q38 g JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
t
The committee having desired leave to sit again, the same was granted.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for taking into consideration, in a
committee of the whole, the propriety of opening the ports after the first of
March next.
The delegates of South-Carolina having informed the Congress, that their
colony, being in want of seamen, had given orders to offer high wages to such
as would engage in their service, desired the advice and opinion of Congress
on this matter:
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of five.
The members chosen, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Huntington, Mr. Paine, Mr. Mor-
ris, and Mr. Floyd. Y.
Resolved, That the naval committee be empowered to purchase a small ves-
sel for a tender.
The committee appointed to procure powder from Providence, brought in a
report, with an account of a cargo provided for that purpose by Willing and
Morris, amounting to 3233.2 dollars; Whereupon, *
Resolved, That the said committee be authorized to give such orders to the
captain of the vessel, as they may think proper.
That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favour of Willing and Morris,
for the said sum of 3233.2 dollars.
The committee on general Washington’s letters, brought in a report, which
being taken into consideration, the Congress, thereupon, came to the following
resolutions:
Itesolved, That the pay-master general of the army at Cambridge, be em-
powered to draw bills º the president of the Congress, or, in their recess,
upon the committee of Congress for that purpose appointed, for any sums of
money which may be deposited in his hands, not exceeding, in any one month,
the monthly expense of the army, and that such bills, countersigned by the
general or commander in chief of the said army, be accepted and paid.
That the free negroes who have served faithfully in the army at Cambridge,
may be re-inlisted therein, but no other.
That, if general Washington think proper, colonel R. Gridley be continued
chief engineer in the army at Cambridge.
That the pay of the assistant engineers in the army at Cambridge be 26 dol-
lars and two-thirds per month. r t w
The committee having desired leave to sit again, the same was granted.
Resolved, That four members be added to the committee on the qualifications,
&c. in the room of those absent.
The members chosen, Mr. Wolcott, for Connecticut, in the room of Mr.
Dyer; Mr. Duane, for New-York, in the room of Mr. Jay; Mr M.Kean, for
the lower counties on Delaware, in the room of Mr. Rodney; and Mr. Rogers,
for Maryland. s -
Resolved, That Thursday next be assigned for taking into consideration the
report of the committee on Indian affairs.
'Resolved, That a list of the committees who have not reported, be prepared
and laid on the table, * t
Adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, January 17, 1776.
A petition from Dr. Benjamin Church was presented to Congress, and
read: f
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Paca, and Mr. Hooper.
A petition from Ibbetson Hamar, a prisoner at Trenton, was presented to
** read, praying for leave to reside at Mr. Stainforth's, near Prince-
OWI), w
#
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776, 239
==
Resolved, That the same be granted.
A memorial from the captains and subalterns of the first Pennsylvania bat-
talion, was presented to Congress and read, complaining of the conduct of
their colonel:
Resolved, That the same be referred to the committee of qualifications, and
that they be directed to hear the parties, and report to Congress.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the propriety of opening the
ports after the first of March next; and after some time, the president resumed
the chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that the committee had taken into consi-
deration the matter to them referred, and had come to a resolution, which he
read in his place, and delivered in.
The report being again read,
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed, to consider under what re-
ulations and restrictions the trade of the }. Colonies ought to be carried
on, after the first of March next.
The members chosen, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Morris, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Adams, and
Mr. Sherman.
Resolved, That a member be added to the committee appointed to confer
with Mr. Romans.
The member chosen, Mr. Wolcott.
The committee appointed to prepare instructions for the officers in the re-
cruiting service, brought in their report, which being taken into consideration,
the Congress, thereupon, came to the following resolutions:
Resolved, That the colonels of the several battalions ordered to be raised,
do immediately order their officers, on recruiting service, to such parts where
they are best known, and have the greatest probability of success.
That the recruiting officers ought to be careful to inlist none but healthy,
sound and able-bodied men, and not under sixteen years of age. --
That the colonels of the several battalions aforesaid, appoint some place or
laces of rendezvous, to which the recruits may be sent, and where the batta-
ions may be quartered.
That the greatest attention ought to be paid to the behaviour of the troops in
quarters, that they may give no reasonable cause of complaint.
That the quarters of the troops be duly discharged once every week.
That an allowance of one ji. and a third of a dollar per man, be made to
the recruiting officers in lieu of their expenses in recruiting, exclusive of the
subsistence-money allowed them. And that, in case any man be inlisted
contrary to the foregoing regulations, the pay they may have received, and the
subsistence-money that may be paid for them, shall be stopped from the pay of
such recruiting officers.
That the colonels of the several battalions to be raised in Pennsylvania, be
supplied with money for the recruiting service, by the committee of safety of
said colony, and disburse the same to the several recruiting officers; the colo-
nels and other officers to be accountable for what they shall receive, and all
arrears,they may fall into, to be stopped from their pay.
Resolved. That the sum of one . ar and one-third of a dollar per man, be
allowed to the officers of the first Pennsylvania battalion, for each man by them
inlisted, whº shall have passed muster.
Resolved, That the treasurers be empowered to advance to Mr. Regonville a
simpotexceeding 400 dollars, taking his draught or bill on his agent in Cana-
da, for the same.
...A letter from general Schuyler, dated January the 18th, enclosing copies of
letters from gen. Wooster, colonel Arnold, and others, were laid before Con-
gress, and read, containing an account of an unsuccessful attempt made to gain
240 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
-* —º...i
possession of Quebec by storm, on the 31st of December, and of the death of
general Montgomery. * º *,
The committee to whom the matter of South-Carolina, respecting the engag-
ing of seamen, was referred, brought in their report, which was read. **
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, January 18, 1776.
The committee to whom the petition of Dr. Church was referred, brought in
their report, which being taken into consideration, *
Resolved, That governor Trumbull be desired to give-order for the removal
of Dr. Church to some more comfortable place of confinement than that where
he now is, if such can be found in that colony; and that, for the advancement of
his health, the said Dr. Church be permitted to ride out, at proper seasons, un-
der a trusty guard, who will be careful to prevent his carrying on any corres:
{. or doing any act prejudicial to the safety and welfare of the United
olonies.
A letter from the committee of Frederick-town, Maryland, enclosing sundry
intercepted letters found upon Dr. John Smith, one of Connolly’s associates,
being brought by the guard who had the charge of bringing down said Smith,
was laid before Congress and read: *
Resolved, That it be recommended to the committee of safety for the colony
of Pennsylvania, to take the examination of the said Dr. Smith, and then com-
mit him to safe and close confinement.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to take into consideration
the letter from general Schuyler of the 13th of January, with the enclosures,
and report thereon to Congress.
The members chosen, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Ward,
and Mr. S. Adams.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, January 19, 1776.
Fesolved, That five members be elected for the committee of claims, in the
room of those who are absent. &
The members chosen, Mr. Wolcott, for Connecticut, in the room of Mr.
eane; Mr. Floyd, for New-York, in the room of Mr. Lewis; Mr. M'Kean,
for the lower counties on Delaware, in the room of Mr. Rodney; Mr Rogers,
for Maryland, in the room of Mr. Johnson; Mr. E. Rutledge, for South-Caro-
lina, in the room of Mr. Gadsden.
. The committee to whom the letters from Lancaster were referred, brought
in ºn answer, which was read and approved:
Ordered, That the same be transcribed and forwarded.
The Cºngress took into consideration the report of the committee on the
matter of South-Carolina, respecting seamen; Whereupon,
*solved, That it be recommended to captain Cochran, who is arrived here
for the purpose of recruiting seamen, to pursue the following plan in the inlist;
injervice in which he is employed by the colony of South-Öarolina.
That he offer to each able-bodied seaman the wages of eight dollars per
month, and that he pay to them nine dollars bounty, and, upon their arrival in
South-Carolina, the further bounty of five dollars.
That captain Cochran repair immediately to the camp at Cambridge, and
take the advice and direction of general Washington on this affair, and proceed
to inlist his seamen in such parts of the country as will be the least prejudicial
to the continental service. t
..That the president write to general Washington, acquainting him with the
situation of South-Carolina, the necessity that colony is in for seamen, and de-
siring that he will please to forward this service.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 241
~P. _f. —i.
The cômmittee of claims reported, that there is due,
To the committee of Berks county, for provisions, ammunition, &c. furnished
the rifle companies, £11, 14 10, and for necessaries furnished the prisoners from
St. John’s, the sum of £8 13 11, amounting, in the whole, to £20 89, equal
to 54.5 dollars, to be paid to Dr. Jonathan Potts.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Résolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favor of the delegates
of South-Carolina, for the sum of 10,000 dollars, which was appropriated for
Indian affairs in the southern department.
The council of safety for the three lower counties on Delaware, having re-
commended sundry gentlemen for field officers, of the battalion ordered to be
raised in that colony, the Congress proceeded to an election, and the ballots
being taken,
John Haslet, esq. was elected colonel, and
Gunning Bedford, esq. lieutenant-colonel.
The Congress resuming the consideration of the report of the committee on
the state of the colonies:
Resolved, That four battalions be raised in the colony of New-York, for the de-
fence of that colony, upon the same pay with those directed to be raised in the
colony of Pennsylvania; and that they be stationed as the commanding officer
of the New-York department shall think best, to garrison the several forts in
that colony, from Crown-Point to the southward, and to prevent depredations
upon Long-Island, and to promote the safety of the whole.
Ordered, That a copy of the foregoing resolution be transmitted to the
council of safety of New-York; and that they be requested, with all possible
expedition, to transmit to Congress, the names of a number of gentlemen, at
least two for each command, out of whom the Congress may elect field officers
for said battalions.
f |. committee on qualifications brought in a report, which was agreed to as
ollows:
That Roger Stayner, and George Jenkins, be appointed first lieutenants in
the first Pennsylvania battalion.
That the two eldest ensigns he promoted to be second lieutenants in the room
ef the above.
That Robert Allison be appointed an ensign in said battalion.
That Jacob Shallus be appointed quarter-master of said battalion.
The committee appointed to hear the complaints of the officers, and colonel
Bull's defence, brought in their report, which, after debate, was referred till
to-morrow. ,
.The committee to whom general Schuyler's letter of the 13th of January,
with the papers and letters enclosed, was referred, brought in a report, which
was taken into consideration: ‘Whereupon,
Resolved, That the American army in Canada be reinforced with all possible
despatch, as well for the security and relief of our friends there, as for better
ë. the rights and liberties not onl y of that colony, but the other United
16S.
That an express be sent to the committee of safety of New Jersey, and an
*PPicatiºn made to that of Pennsylvania, immediately to quicken the officers
employed iºlevying the forces directed to be raised in those colonies, and
*d to Canada, and do all in their power to forward the service.” And
*** **mittee of inspection of the city and liberties of Philadelphia, be
requested forthwith to use their utmost endeavors to aid Mr. J. Mease in pro-
curing ºf the householders therein, suchblankets as may be spared from their
respective families, for the use of the battalion destined for this important ex-
P**so severe a season; for which the owners shall be allowed the value of
such * according to the estimation of the said committee of in spection.
* tº , º, 31 ^.
i
242 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
i-º-º-º-º-º-º-º-º: —A- *-i-º-º-
And that colonel Bull and colonel Maxwell, do, without delay, march such of
the companies of their battalions as are now ready, to ºsº.
That general Washington be requested to detach from the camp at Cam-
bridge, one battalion, if the service there will permit him to spare one, with
orders to march with the greatest expedition possible to Canada.
That for the more speedy raising the battalions, ordered on the 8th of Jan-
uary, to be raised in the colonies of New-Hampshire, Connecticut, New-York,
and Pennsylvania, for the defence of Canada, it be recommended to the ge-
neral assemblies, conventions, or councils, or committees of safety, of those
colonies respectively, to exert their utmost endeavors in raising the said bat-
talions, upon the same pay and subsistence as the army at Cambridge, and
to furnish them with provisions, ammunition, and other necessaries, for expe-
diting their march to Canada. And, for farther encouraging the men more
cheerfully to enter into the service of their country, to give a bounty of six
dollars and two-thirds, to every able-bodied effective man, properly clothed for
the service, and having a good firelock, with a bayonet, and other accoutre-
ments; and four dollars to every soldier not having the like arms and accou-
trements; the arms to be supplied by the colony, and the cost to be deducted
out of the soldiers’ pay; and also to provide a blanket and haversack for every
inlisted soldier, and, morever, to advance one month’s pay to every officer and
. before their march, that they may be able to purchase necessary
clothing. i
That the first two companies which shall be complete of every battalion, do
march to that country so soon as they shall be ready, and be followed in the
same numbers, with like expedition, by the rest of the corps. ... And that it be
recommended to the general assemblies, conventions, and councils or committees
of safety, of the colonies in which battalions are directed to be raised, that
they respectively attend to this business. "r
he committee desired leave to sit again, which was granted.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, January 20, 1776.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of the com-
mittee of safety for Pennsylvania, for the sum of 15,000 dollars, for the use of
the five battalions to be raised in said colony; the said committee to be ac-
countable. t
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To captain Henry Shylock, for his expenses in bringing Dr. John Smith from
Hagarstown, and for his expenses in returning home, the sum of 89.3 dollars.
To John Nelson, for his expenses in bringing the said Dr. John Smith from
the Little Meadows to Hagarstown, and for his trouble in attending him to
this city, with allowance of expenses in returning home, the sum of 75 dollars.
To Francis Johnson, esq. for sundry expenses incurred by guards for powder,
wagons, &c. the sum of 38 dollars. \
To Thomas Dewees, for supporting several prisoners, the sum of 48.2
dollars. '
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
A memorial from colonel Bull was presented to Congress and read, praying
for leave, on account of ill treatment he had received from many officers of his
corps, to resign his commission.
The committee on general Schuyler’s letter, brought in a farther report,
which being taken into consideration, the Congress came to the following re-
'solutions:
Resolved, That general Washington be desired to despatch a general officer,
if he can be spared from the service at Cambridge, to command the army in
Canada. 4.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 243
That, it being necessary to procure a large quantity of specie for the opera-
tions in Canada, which cannot be successfully carried on without that article,
it be recommended to the general assemblies, conventions, and councils or com
mittees of safety, upon the continent, to employ proper persons, within their
respective colonies, to collect all the gold and silver coin they can, and inform
Congress of the sum collected.
That it will not be expedient at present to send a committee of Congress to
Canada: J
That the committee of secrecy be desired to despatch one ton of gun-pow-
der with the first companies that shall march from Pennsylvania to Canada, and
that governor Trumbull be desired to send the like quantity of gun-powder
with the first detachment of forces directed to march thither from Connecticut:
... That the losses sustained by captain Hazen be ascertained by commis-
sioners to be appointed by the commanding officer in Canada, and that the
commissioners report their proceedings, with the examination of the witnesses,
and their own opinion thereupon, to Congress:
That the general assemblies, conventions or councils, or committees of safe-
ſy, of the colonies, in which forces are directed to be raised for the service of
Canada, be desired to raise, for the same service, one company of matrosses,
consisting of forty privates, in each colony, under proper officers ; and where a
company cannot be completed, to raise as many as they can, under subaltern
officers, in proportion to their numbers:
'Phat general Wooster be desired to take possession of the medicine chest
mentioned by colonel Campbell, to be claimed by Dr. Beaumont, and if it ap-
pear to him to be private property, to pay the value thereof to the owner:
That the general assemblies, conventions, or councils or committees of safe-
ty, be desired to take the most effectual measures for recovering the arms, ac-
coutrements, batteaus, tools, and other stores of the continent, said to have been
carried off by some of the soldiers who have returned from Canada:
That 12,500 dollars be advanced to each of the general assemblies or coun-
cils, or committees of safety, of the colonies in which forces are directed to be
raised for the service of Canada, for the purpose of recruiting their respective
regiments :
hat, from the necessity of the case, and to prevent delays, blank commis-
sions be issued by the president for the field officers, captains, and subalterns,
who are to command the battalions ordered to be raised for Canada, in New-
Hampshire, and Connecticut, to be filled up with the names of such gentlemen
as shall be judged most proper by the convention or committee of safety of
New-Hampshire, and by the governor and council of Connecticut:
That the foregoing resolution be not drawn into a precedent:
That, exclusive of colonel Livingston and his regiment, already determined
on, there be one thousand Canadians more raised, for one year, or during the
present disputes, at six dollars and two-thirds bounty, and the usual pay, which
Rºmber shall compose four battalions, and form one regiment, five companies of
fifty men to each battalion, one captain, one lieutenant, and one ensign, to each
Company, and four majors, one lieutenant-colonel, and one colonel, to the whole
regiment :
º that the committee of safety of Pennsylvania be desired to provide and des-
#. . and drums to Canada, for the two regiments directed to be raised in
ony.
Resolved, That orders be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of the delegates
of New-Hampshire, for the above sum of 12,500 dollars; and in favor of
the delegates of Connecticut, for the like sum of 12,500 dollars; and in favor
of the delegates of New-York, for the like sum of 12,500 dollars, for the use of
the battalions to be raised for Canáda; and that the said delegates be desired to
forward the said sums to their respective colonies with aï expedition; the
several colonies to be accountable for the same.
W
244 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
Resolved, That the president be directed to send an express to general
Schuyler, with a letter, informing him of the measures the Congress have taken
for the defence of Canada, and desiring him to forward the same to general
Wooster :
That he hikewise despatch an express, with the like information, to general
Washington, to the governor of Connecticut, and the convention or council of
safety of New-Jersey, New-York and New-Hampshire. Jºs
The committee on qualifications having recommended the º persons
for ensigns in the first Pennsylvania battalion, viz: Nicholas Scull, Joseph
Greenway, John Irvine, John Brice, Richard Rice, and Major Walbroon, the
same were agreed to, and commissions ordered to be given them accordingly.
Resolved, "That the secret committee be directed to supply the delegates of &
i. ersey with 300 pounds of powder for the use of colonel Maxwell’s bat-
talion.
Ordered, That Timothy Matlack deliver to the delegates of New-Jersey, or
their order, a quantity of flints, for the use of said battalion, and ball or lead
proportioned to 300 pounds of powder.
ſº
That the treasurers, with alſ expedition, send a trusty person with 591,000,
in continental bills, to Samuel Patterson, esq. and receive in exchange for the
same so much in silver and gold.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, January 22, 1776.
Sundry letters, viz. one from general Washington, of the 11th of January,
two from lord Sterling, one of the 18th and another of the 19th of January, one
from general Schuyler, of the 10th of January, and one from the committee of
Trenton, of the 19th of January; also a petition from John Sparling, being re-
ceived, were read. *
Resolved, That the above letters be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Hooper, and Mr. Adams.
Resolved, That the president be empowered to employ a private secretary,
to be paid by the United Colonies.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Benedict Arnold, on account of his expenses in his expedition against
Crown-Point and, Ticonderoga, a balance amounting to 819 dollars, to be paid
to Silas Deane, esq. gº.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Resolved, That the committee of Trenton be desired to send general Pres-
cot and captain Chace under a guard to Philadelphia.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed, to consider a proper
method of paying a just tribute of gratitude to the memory of general Mont-
Omer W 3 .
ºnemier down. Mr. Livingston, Dr. Franklin, and Mr. Hooper.
The Congress proceeded to the election of field-officers for the second Ca-
nadian regiment, and, - & 3.
Moses fiazen, esq. was elected colonel.
Edward Antil, esq. lieutenant-colonel:
Resolved, That the United Colonies will indemnify colonel Hazen for any
loss of half-pay he may sustain in consequence of his entering into their service.
|Resolved, That the appointment of majors, captains, and sabaltern and staff-
officers in the second Canadian regiment, be left to the commander in chief in
Sanada, with the advice of the general officers in that country, and of colonel
Hazen, lieutenant-colonel Antil, and Mr. Price. *
The Congress resumed the consideration of colonel Bull's application, for
*
leave to resign his commission,
j *
* {
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 245
-*— —-º-º-
Resolved, That leave be granted him. .*
The Congress then proceeded to the election of a colonel for the first Penn-
º battalion, in the room of colonel Bull, and John Philip de Haas was
elected.
A memorial from captain Duncan Campbell, a prisoner, being presented to
Congress, and read,
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania be empowered to
take his parole, and that he have leave to reside at Lancaster.
Application being made in behalf of lieutenant M'Donnald, for leave to come
to #. and remain there five days, in order to transact some neces-
sary business;
Resolved, That leave be granted.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, January 23, 1776.
A letter from general Schuyler, of the 14th of January, enclosing a letter
from general Arnold, was read: sº 4.
Ordered, That the secretary draw up a narrative of the repulse our troops
met with, and of the loss sustained in their unsuccessful attempt on Quebec,
and lay the same before Congress.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare a letter to the
inhabitants of Canada.
The members chosen, Mr. Livington, Mr. Lynch and Mr. Wilson.
Resolved, That the articles of war be translated into French, and 500 copies
sent to Canada.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Adam Ekel, for wagonage from Lancaster to Cambridge, with captain
Smith’s company of riflemen, a balance of 43.3 dollars.
To Deborah Siddens, for provisions for captain Ross's company, the sum of
15.3 dollars.
To John Jervis, for ferriage, horse-hire, &c. the sum of 12 dollars.
To the committee of Romboiet precinct, in Duchess county, in the colony of
New-York, the sum of 129.4 dollars.
To Robert Erwin, for wagonage, the sum of 67 dollars.
To Timothy Matlack, for cash by him paid to Archibald Dick, the expenses
of a guard over a powder-wagon, 16.4 dollars, g
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on In-
dian affairs, which, after debate, was recommitted.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of the com-
mittee of safety of the three lower counties on Delaware, for the sum of 3000
dollars, for the use of the battalion ordered to be raised in that colony; the
said $ommittee to be ordered to be accountable for the expenditure.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, January 24, 1776.
A letter from the committee of Trenton, of J anuary the 23d, was read.
he secretary laid before Congress an account of the repulse our troops
met with in their attempt on Quebec, the 31st of December; which was read:
* ºrdered. That the same be published.
*solved, That such of the soldiers, ordered to Canada, as are married, and
are desirous of having part of their pay given to their wives, be indulged; and
that the Captains or pay-master be directed, in future payment of such soldiers,
to deduct such part of their monthly pay. *
Resolved, That the president be directed to inform general Schuyler, that
the return of cannon mentioned in his letter of December 21st, is mislaid, and
~&
246 JOURNALS OF GONGRESS, 1776.
that therefore he is desired to make a return, as soon as possible, of all the can-
non and artillery at Crown-Point and Ticonderoga, exclusive of those, taken
by colonel Knox, for general Washington.
Resolved, That Mr. Bankson be appointed a first lieutenant in the room of
Mr. Morgan, who is in the country.
Information being given to Congress that some soldiers in the first Penn-
sylvania battalion, now under orders to march to Canada, are not supplied
with arms :
Resolved, That the commanding officer of said battalion be directed to make
a return of the arms of said battalion, and how many are wanting, to the pre-
sident of the committee of inspection and observation for the city and liberties
of Philadelphia:
That the said committee be desired to use their utmost influence to provide
good arms for such of said battalion as may want them.
Resolved, That a committee of seven be appointed to consider the proprie-
ty of establishing a war office, and the powers with which the said office
should be vested. . t
The members chosen, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Franklin, Mr. E. Rutledge, Mr. Har-
rison, Mr. Ward, Mr. S. Adams, and Mr. Morris.
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to the inhabitants of Canada,
reported a draught which being read and considered, was approved.
Ordered, That the same be immediately translated and printed.
Resolved, That an order be drawn, on the treasurers in favor of Carpenter
Wharton, for the sum of 1000 dollars, to enable him to supply the first Penn-
sylvania battalion with provisions on their march to Albany; he to be ac-
countable. r * -
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to prepare an address to
the inhabitants of the United Colonies.
The members chosen, Mr. Dickinson, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Hooper, Mr. Duane,
and Mr. Alexander.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favor of colonel
Hazen, for the sum of 533 1-5 dollars, he to be accountable.
d That a like order be drawn in favor of colonel Antil, for the sum of 200
ollars. -
That the sum of 2666 2-3 dollars, in specie, be advanced to colonel Hazen,
for the use of the battalion to be by him raised in Canada, he to be ac-
countable. f
Adjourned to ten o’clock to morrow.
THURSDAY, January 25, 1776,
Sundry letters, viz. one from the committee of Trenton, dated the 23d of
January; one from Ibbetson Hamar, and from Dr. Richard Huddleston, of the
same date; and one from the committee of Lancaster, of the 22d of January,
were read, and referred to the committee of correspondence.
A letter from eolonel Maxwell, respecting the unprepared state of his bat-
talion, being read : v * *
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of the com-
mittee of Trenton, for the sum of 4000 dollars, to purchase arms for colonel
Maxwell’s battalion, the said committee to be accountable. 3.
Resolved, That the president write to the said committee, and to Mr. Lowry:
stimulating them to furnish colonel Maxwell's battalion with the articles ne;
cessary for their march; and that the president write to colonel Maxwell, and
direct him to send forward to Albany, the first company that can be got ready,
and that he cause the other companies to march with like expedition, one at à
time, as fast as they can be got ready. *
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 247
X
* ***.*.*-*- ------------- Fº -- *…*.*.*_-_º_-º. $ººk
-º-º-º:
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to take the examination of
brigadier-general Prescot and captain Chace, who are arrived at Philadelphia,
and report to Congress :
The members chosen, Mr. Adams, Mr. Ward, and Mr. Sherman.
The committee appointed to consider of a proper method of paying a i.
tribute of gratitude to the memory of general Montgomery, brought in their
report, which was agreed to as follows:
It being not only a tribute of gratitude justly due to the memory of those
who have peculiarly distinguished themselves in the glorious cause of liberty, to
perpetuate their names by the most durable monuments erected to their ho-
nor, but also greatly conducive to inspire posterity with an emulation of their
illustrious actions:
Resolved, That, to express the veneration of the United Colonies for their
late general, Richard Montgomery, and the deep sense they entertain of the
many signal and important services of that gallant officer, who, after a series
of successes, amidst the most discouraging difficulties, fell at length in a gal-
lant attack upon Quebec, the capital of Canada; and to transmit to future
ages, as examples truly worthy of imitation, his patriotism, conduct, boldness
of enterprize, insuperable perseverance, and contempt of danger and death;
a nonument be procured from Paris, or any other part of France, with an in-
scription, sacred to his memory, and expressive of his amiable character and
heroic achievements. And that the continental treasurers be directed to ad-
vance a sum, not exceeding £ 300 sterling, to Dr. Benjamin Franklin (who is
. to see this resolution properly executed) for defraying the expense
thereof.
That Dr. Smith be desired to prepare and deliver a funeral oration in honor
of general Montgomery, and of those officers and soldiers, who so magnani-
#. fought and ſell with him in maintaining the principles of American
iberty.
Rºleu, That the direction of the fleet fitted out by the order of Congress,
be left to the naval committee.
. A letter from general Washington, dated the 14th of January, being re-
ceived, was read, and referred to the committee of correspondence.
Resolved, That Mr. James Mease be appointed a commissary to supply the
battalions, ordered to be raised in Pennsylvania, with the articles allowed by
Congress; and that he be allowed for his trouble, one and one-fourth per cent.
in full of all charges for the money passing through his hands, and that he give
security for the just and faithful expenditure of the same.
That Mr. Lynch and Mr. Allen take the security.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favour of the dele-
gates of North-Carolina, for the sum of 10,000 dollars, for the use of the batta-
lions ordered to be raised in that colony.
The committee appointed to take the examination of general Prescot and
captain, Chace, made report of their proceedings: §
£esolved, That the said committee be directed to make farther enquiry in-
to,the character and conduct of general Prescot, and inspect the letters of gene-
ral Schuyler and general Montgomery concerning him.
Resolved, That colonel Roberdeau be requested to relieve the guard from f
Trenton, who have charge of general Prescot and captain Chase, with a trus-
ty guard from his battalion. * - *
**ued, That the fortification at Crown-Point be not repaired; and that
the fortress at Ticonderogabe repaired and made defensible; and that general
Schuyler be desired to make return to Congress, as soon as may be, of the size
and number of cannon, that will be necessary to fortify that place.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
248 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
FRIDAY, January 26, 1776.
A letter from general Lee, dated the 22d of January, enclosing a letter from
the committee of safety of New-York, was received and read.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to repair to New-York,
to consult and advise with the council of safety of that colony, and with ,
general Lee, respecting the immediate defence of the city of New-York; and
that general Lee be directed to follow the determination of the said commit-
tee thereupon : \
That it be an instruction to the said committee, in case the city cannot be
defended, that they earnestly recommend it to the inhabitants immediately to
remove their most valuable effects to a place of safety: i
That the said committee be farther instructed to consult with general Lee
and the committee of safety of New-York, about the fortifications on Hudson’s
river, and about fortifying the pass at Hellgate :
The members chosen, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Lynch, and Mr. Allen.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to consider what allow-
ance ought to be made for paying the troops raised in New-Jersey and Penn-
sylvania.
3. members chosen, Mr. Ward, Mr. Harrison, and Mr. Allen.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favour of the com-
missioners for lndian affairs in the middle department, for the sum of 1000
dollars, the said commissioners to be accountable.
A petition from sundry persons, respecting the inlisting apprentices, was
presented and read.
A letter from Pittsburg, dated the 15th of January, with enclosed papers,
was read.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, January 27, 1776.
A letter from general Washington, dated the 19th of January; one from
the committee at Trenton, dated the 24th; one from lord Sterling, dated the
25th, and one from T. Lowry, dated the 24th of the same month, were read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to Mr. Wythe, Mr. Sherman, Mr.
Ward, and Mr. S. Adams. -
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To colonel C. Wynkoop, for expenses in bringing a party of prisoners from
St. John’s, the sum of 765.7 dollars, of which 86.2 dollars ought to be charged
to the officers of the said party of prisoners. #
Ordered, That the same be paid. p
Resolved, That the committee of inspection of Esopus, or Kingston, be di-
rected to supply the prisoners there with necessary clothing, and also to
provide them with lodging and provisions not exceeding the rations allowed to
privates in the continental army, on the most reasonable terms they can. ,
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to take into consideration
the report of the commissioners for Indian affairs in the middle department,
and the state of the Indians in the said department.
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Paine, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Duane, and
Mr. Rogers. -
Resolved, That a commission issue to Cayashota, giving him the rank of a
colonel, and that a silver gorget be presented to him.
The Congress taking into consideration the report of the committee on the
case of Mr. Juge,
Resolved, That Mr. Juge be permitted to export the manufactures or produce
of the colony of Maryland (horned cattle, hogs, sheep, and poultry excepted)
tº any port or place whatsoever, (except to Great-Britain, Ireland, British
isles, the British West-Indies, and except for the supply of the British army
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. ' 249
w-r-
or navy in America) to the amount of the canvas imported by him into the said
colony: the said value to be ascertained by the committee of inspection and
observation for the county of Baltimore : ºf
Resolved, nevertheless, that the indulgence, in this instance, ought not to be
drawn into example, the same being granted to Mr. Juge on account of the
peculiar circumstances of his case; and that the said Mr. Juge be enjoined,
by the aforesaid committee of Baltimore, to avoid, if possible, all British ships
of war and armed cutters on his voyage.
º ºrial from H. Keppele and John Steinmetz was presented to Congress,
&I101 Tea C : *
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of three:
The members chosen, Mr. Ward, Mr. Alexander, and Mr. Wythe.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed, to take into consideration
the matter of inlisting apprentices and persons in debt:
The members chosen, Mr. Paine, Mr. M'Kean, and Mr. Wythe. .*
The committee to whom the treaty held with the Indians at Albany, and th
letter from V. P. Douw, esq. were referred, brought in their report: Where-
upon,
"ºleu, That in order to preserve the confidence and friendship of the
Indians, and to prevent their suffering for want of the necessaries of life, a
suitable assortment of Indian goods, to the amount of £40,000 sterling, be
imported on account and risk of the United Colonies: --
That the said goods, when imported, be divided among the different depart-
ments, in the following proportions, viz: for the northern department, compre-
hending Canada, sg 13,333 6.8 sterling; for the middle department, the like
value: and the residue for the southern department:
That in order to pay for the said goods, a quantity of produce of these colo-
. be exported to some foreign European market, where it will sell to the best
advantage :
*...*. secret committee be empowered to contract with proper persons
for importing said goods, and for exporting produce to pay for the same:
That the said goods, when imported, be delivered to the commissioners of
Indian affairs for the respective departments, or their order, in the proportions
before mentioned:
That the respective commissioners, or such of them as can conveniently as-
§emble for that purpose, shall, as the goods arrive, fix a price, adding to the
first cost, interest, the charge of insurance, and all other charges, and also a
commission, not exceeding two and a half per cent. on the first cost, for their
own care and trouble in receiving, storing and selling them to the Indian
traders; but such commissioners as are, at the same time, members of Congress,
shall not be burthened with this part of the business, nor receive any part of
the aforesaid commission: ---
That no person shall be permitted to trade with the Indians without license
from one of more of the commissioners of each respective department:
Thºll traders shall dispose of their goods at such stated reasonable prices,
as shall be fixed and ascertained by the commissioners, or a majority of such
* * ºnveniently assemble for that purpose, in each respective department,
and shall allow the Indians areasonable price for their skins and furs, and take
no unjust advantage of their distress and intemperance; and, to this end, they
shall, respectively, upon receiving their licenses, enter into bond to the com-
missioners, for the use of the United Colonies, in such penalty, as the acting
*ssioners or commissioner shall think proper, conditioned for the per:
formance of the terms and regulations above prescribed:
. That to such licensed traders only, the respective commissioners shall de-
liver the goods, so to be imported, in such proportions as they shall judge will
best Prº fair trade, and relieve the necessities of the Indians:
OL, is 32
250 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
That every trader, on receiving the goods, shall pay to the commissioners in
hand, the price at which they shall be estimated; and the commissioners shall,
from time to time, as the money shall come to their hands, transmit the same
to the continental treasurers, deducting only the allowance for their trouble as
aforesaid:
That the trade with the Indian nations shall be carried on at such posts and
places only, as the commissioners for each department shall respectively ap-
oint:
That these resolutions shall not be construed to prevent or debar any private
person from importing goods for the Indian trade, under the restrictions ex-
pressed in the association.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, January 29, 1776.
A letter from governor Trumbull, dated January the 20th, being received,
was read.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of Mr. James
Mease, commissary, for the sum of 5000 dollars, for the use of the battalions
ordered to be raised in Pennsylvania.
The committee, to whom were referred the letter from general Washington,
dated the 19th instant, with the papers therein mentioned, and the letter from
lord Sterling, dated the 24th, and the letter from the committee at Trenton,
dated the day last mentioned, brought in their report: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the application, made by general Washington to the govern-
ments of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, and Connecticut, in such an
exigency, to raise a regiment in each of those colonies for the service of Ca-
nada, were prudent, consistent with his duty, and a farther manifestation of
his commendable zeal for the good of his country; that the ready attention of
the said governments to those applications, and the alacrity with which they
undertook, and the expedition with which they proceed in the business, are
additional proofs of their meritorious attachment to the common cause, and may
produce signal public advantages: ‘and that it be recommended to the general
assembly of Massachusetts-Bay, to raise the like number of matrosses, and in
the like manner, and that both these and the additional regiment there, bein-
listed on the same terms as those jº. to be raised for this service in New-
Hampshire, Connecticut, New-York, and Pennsylvania; and for this purpose,
that 12,500 dollars be advanced to the delegates of Massachusetts-Bay, and
forwarded by them, with blank military commissions for the field officers, cap-
tains and subalterns, signed by the president to the said general assembly:
That the three regiments to be raised in New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-
Bay and Connecticut, for the service in Canada, be exclusive of the thirteen
intended to reinforce the army at Cambridge:
That the loss of and damage to such fire arms, belonging to the soldiers in the
service of the continent, as shall happen not through carelessness or misbeha-
viour, the value being ascertained in a proper manner, to be provided by the
fº assemblies, conventions, or councils or committees of safety of the
United Colonies respectively, be made good to the owners; and that their
arms, after their time of service is expired, be not detained from them:
That the alertness, activity and good conduct of lord Sterling, and the for-
wardness and spirit of the gentlemen, and others, from Elizabeth-town, who
voluntarily assisted him in taking the ship Blue-Mountain.Valley, were lauda-
ble and exemplary; and that his lordship be directed to secure the capture,
until the further order of the Congress; and that, in the mean time, he cause
such part of the loading, as would otherwise perish, to be disposed of by sale.
The committee desired leave to sit again, which was granted.
A petition from Dr. Wheelock, being laid before Congress, was read, and
referred to the committee on Indian affairs in the middle department.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 251
Tº º
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Hugh M*Clenahan, an express from Pittsburg, for expenses, &c. the sum
of 46.2 dollars.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Resolved, That general Prescot be committed to, and kept in close confine-
meut in the gaol of Philadelphia, till further orders of Congress.
That captain Chace be remanded to Trenton, and permitted to reside with
the other officers on his parole.
A memorial and proposal of captain John Nelson, respecting a company of
riflemen, was presented to Congress, and read:
sº.” That a committee of three be appointed to confer with captain
€1SOI] .
The members chosen, Mr. Morton, Mr. Wisner, and Mr. Sherman.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, January 30, 1776.
Resolved, That Dr. Cadwallader and Dr. Shippen, jun. be desired to inspect
the room of the gaol where general Prescot is confined, and enquire into the
state of his health, and report thereon to Congress.
The committee appointed to confer with captain Nelson, brought in their re-
port, which was taken into consideration, and thereupon,
Resolved, That captain Nelson’s company of riflemen, now raised, consist-
ing of one captain, three lieutenants, four serjeants, four corporals and seven-
ty privates, be inlisted for the service of Canada, on the same terms as the
other troops ordered for that service, and that they march to Canada, and join
a regiment there as soon as possible: that they be allowed one quarter of a
dollar per day, for their subsistence on their march to Albany:
That six dollars and two-thirds of a dollar bounty, be paid to each non-com-
missioned officer and soldier, who is furnished with sufficient arms, accoutre-
ments, and clothing for the service, upon their entering into the service of the
colonies, and one month’s pay to the commissioned officers.
That 900 dollars be advanced to said captain Nelson for that purpose, and
for the subsistence of said company to Reading:
That the sum of 700 dollars be sent to the committee of inspection at Read-
ing: that said committee pay one month’s wages to the non-commissioned of-
ficers and soldiers, upon their arrival there, and deliver the residue of said sum
to captain Nelson, for the subsistence of said company in their march fom thence
to Albany; he to account for what money he receives with general Schuyler.
. The º of said company are, John Nelson, captain; Moses Dicker, first-
lieutenant; Adam Ott, second ditto; Isaac Newkirk, third ditto. .
The committee, to whom general Washington’s letter of the 14th of Janu-
ary, was referred, brought in their report, which was taken into consideration,
and thereupon, t
Resolved, That all the tent-cloth which can be procured in Philadelphia and
New-York, be purchased for the Congress, and that the quantity necessary
for the ensuing campaign in the army before Boston, be forwarded thither, if
so much is to be had: *
..That it be recommended to the several assemblies in New-England, to as-
sist the general in procuring arms; and that the thanks of the Congress be
given to such of them as have already done so:
That Mr.J ames Mease, in Philadelphia, and Mr. Lewis, Mr. Alsop, and Mr.
ºis, in New-York, be directed to carry the former resolution into exe-
*CUltl One
The committee on the inlistment of apprentices, &c, brought in their report,
and the same being taken into consideration, *
252 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
j
Resolved, That no apprentice whatsoever be inlisted within the colonies of
New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, the counties on Delaware or Maryland, as a sol-
dier in the army or navy of the United Colonies, without the consent of his
master or mistress first obtained in writing; and that all apprentices now in-
listed as soldiers in the said army or navy, without such consent, be immediate-
ly discharged from the service, on the application of their masters or mistresses,
upon payment of all just and reasonable charges of their inlistment:
That it be recommended to all creditors, whose demands against any person
who is inlisted, or shall inlist, in the continental service, shall not amount to
the value of 35 dollars, not to arrest any such debtor till the expiration of the
time for which he is inlisted.
That every person under the age of twenty-one years, inlisting himself in
the army or navy aforesaid, may, within twenty-four hours after such inlist-
ment, obtain his discharge, by refunding the money received from the recruit-
ing officer, and returning such necessaries as may have been supplied him by
the officer, or the value thereof in money.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers for the sum of 1000
dollars, to discharge a draft of the pay-master general, for so much deposited
with him, for the use of the United Colonies.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to take into consideration an
application from the committee of safety for New-York.
he members chosen, Mr. Ward, Mr. Paine, Mr. Paca, Mr. Lee, and Mr.
Rodney. *
Resolved, That the naval committee be empowered to draw on the treasur-
ers for a sum not exceeding 30,000 dollars, in order to discharge sundry debts
by them contracted.
Resolved, That Mr. R. Morris be added to the committee of secret corres-
pondence.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. i
WEDNESDAY, January 31, 1776.
Sundry letters, viz. one from lord Sterling, dated the 27th of January; one
from the committee of Trenton, of the 30th, one from col. St. Clair, of the
27th, and one from col. Maxwell, of the 31st of the same month, were laid be-
fore Congress, and read.
Resolved, That a committee of two be appointed to confer with colonel
Maxwell respecting the state of his regiment, and report the means of facilita-
ting and hastening his march.
The members chosen, Mr. Livingston and Mr. Wilson.
A report from Dr. Cadwallader and Dr. Shippen, respecting the room where
general Prescot is confined, and the state of the general’s health, was laid be-
fore Congress, and read.
The Congress, taking into consideration the letter from col. St. Clair, res-
pecting the inlistment of some of the prisoners at Lancaster,
Resolved, That the prisoners who have been inlisted into the continental
army, be discharged, and that no more be inlisted.
Ordered, That a copy of the foregoing resolve be sent to the committee of
Lancaster.
The committee, to whom sundry letters were referred, on the 27th instant,
brought in a farther report; Whereupon,
Resolved, That Mr. Barbarie, owner of the sloop and cargo said to have
been taken by the enemy, and retaken by one of the continental vessels of
War, ought to make and prosecute his claim to the same, before the court ap:
pointed, or to be appointed, by the government of the colony to which the said
sloop and cargo were carried, to hear and determine causes civil and maritime,

*: a process ought to be instituted to confirm the re-capture, and adjust the
alvage.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 253
*… à-
The committee appointed to confer with colonel Maxwell, brought in their
report; Whereupon,
Resolved, That Mr. Thomas Lowry, commissary for the battalions in New-
Jersey, be directed to procure all necessaries, except arms, for colonel Max-
well’s regiment immediately; and that the cost of the clothing, and other arti-
cles absolutely essential, which the non-commissioned officers and privates are
to pay for, be by the said commissary procured forthwith, the cost thereof to be
jºi out of the pay of the said non-commissioned officers and soldiers;
and that the convention, or committee of safety of New-Jersey, get the arms,
already ordered, with all possible expedition, and afford Mr. Lowry all assist-
ance in the execution of the above:
That the company in the said regiment which is nearest being furnished, be
supplied by any arms and necessaries in the said battalion, and marched for
Canada, and that the other companies be furnished and marched as soon as
ossible.
p The Congress, taking into consideration the letter from lord Sterling,
Resolved, That the private adventures of the captain and mates of the
transport Blue-Mountain Valley, be delivered to them, and that they be per-
mitted to return to England.
The delegates for Massachusetts-Bay laid before Congress an account of
their appointment; by which it appears, that the hon. John Hancock, esq.
Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry, esqrs.
are elected to represent the said colony in Congress, for the year 1776.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, February 1, 1776.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favour of the dele-
gates of Virginia, for the sum of 333; dollars, for the use of Mr. J. Walker,
one of the commissioners for Indian affairs in the southern department, the
said delegates to be accountable.
Resolved, That a member be added to the committee on the state of the
treasury, in the room of Mr. Cushing.
*The member chosen, Mr. S. Adams.
Resolved, That general Prescot be allowed the attendance of his servant, and
of a physician, in case his health require it. .
Resolved, That the committee of safety for Pennsylvania be desired to take
the parole of such officers who are prisoners now in Philadelphia, and order
them to their respective places of residence. --
. The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on estab-
lishing posts and expresses, and after debate,
Resolved, That the farther consideration thereof be postponed; and that, in
the mean while, Dr. Franklin be directed to write to the post-masters, and
enquire on what terms expresses can be procured.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, February 2, 1776.
* Two letters from general Schuyler, dated 22d and 25th January, accompa-
nied with an account of his expedition to Tryon county, and enclosing sundry
despatches from Canada, and other papers, being received, were read, and re-
ferred to Mr. Wythe, Mr. E. Rutledge, and Mr. M'Kean.
A , receipt of general Schuyler for £ 7829 9 0 Pennsylvania currency,
equal to 20878.5 dollars, sent him by order of the 30th of December, was laid
before Congress.
A letter from colonel Wayne being read, *
Resolved, That colonel Wayne be directed to quarter his battalion in and
near Chester, until the farther orders of Congress, or of a committee of Con-
gress, for that purpose appointed,
254 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776)
Ordered, That the secretary deliver to Mr. J. Mease a copy of colonel
Wayne's letter, so far as respects the supplying his battalion with necessaries.
The committee to whom the memorial of Mr. Aspden was referred, brought
in their report: Whereupon, -
Resolved, That Mr. Matthias Aspden, be permitted to export in the sloop
Tryal, consigned to him from Port-au-Prince, the produce or manufactures of
these colonies, (horned cattle, sheep, hogs, poultry, and lumber for making
casks, excepted) to Port-au-Prince, to the amount of £800 Pennsylvania cur-
ren CW - *
That the above permission be not drawn into precedent, and that Mr. Asp-
den take every possible precaution to avoid all }. men of war, and cut-
ters on the voyage.
The committee to whom the memorial of Keppele and Steinmetz was re-
ferred, brought in their report: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the memorialists have no just claim to satisfaction or repa-
ration for the loss of their ship and cargo, seized by one of the king's ships of
war, and detained by admiral Greves and general Howe, either out of the
continental treasury, or out of the value of the clothing sent hither to supply
the British troops at Boston, and intercepted and disposed of to the use of the
American army.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to take an account of the
prisoners, the names of the officers, and their places of residence, and report
the same to Congress.
* The members chosen, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. Smith, and Mr. Wisner.
A memorial from the rev. Mr. Samson Occum was read, and referred to the
committee on Indian affairs.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday next.
MONDAY, February 5, 1776.
Resolved, That general Schuyler be directed to have the arms of such of
the troops marching to Canada, as pass through Albany, carefully examined
there; and such of them as are deficient and want repair, exchanged for the
good effective arms taken from the tories, and to order those exchanged and
left, to be repaired.
The committee to whom general Schuyler's letters were referred, brought
in their report, which was taken into consideration, and thereupon,
Itesolved, That general Schuyler has proceeded in disarming such inhabi-
tants of the county of Tryon, in the colony of New-York, as were disaffected,
and providing for the future tranquillity of those parts, with fidelity, prudence,
and despatch, and at the same time with a proper temper towards that deluded
eople, and thereby performed a meritorious service:
That the cheerfulness and ready assistance of those who accompanied general
Schuyler in his march to the county of Tryon, and their useful services in that
expedition, discovered such a patriotic, spirit, that it is hoped none of them
will allow their countrymen to entertain a suspicion that any ignoble motive
actuated them, by requiring a pecuniary reward, especially when they were
employed in suppressing a mischief in their own neighborhood:
That the resolution of Congress of the 8th of last month, for sending ship-
wrights from the cities of New-York and Philadelphia, to build batteaus at
Ticonderoga, be superseded ; and that general Schuyler be desired to em-
ploy any such artificers, as he shall think proper, in that business :
That general Schuyler be desired to issue warrants for completing the re-
giment directed to be raised in New-York, for the service of Canada; and
that it be recommended to the convention of that colony to appoint such offi-
cers thereof, as general Schuyler hath nominated :
That the appointments by general Schuyler of Mr. Hubbard Brown, to be
conductor of artillery, Gysberi Marselis, esq, to be barrack-master, Mr. Peter
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 255
*
––
Schuyler to take charge of the arms, and Mr. Philip Van Rensselaer, to be
store-keeper at Albany, be confirmed; and that general Schuyler be desired
to inform Congress of the proper salaries to be annexed to those offices:
That general Schuyler be desired to procure skilful persons to assist general
Wooster in exploring the river St. Lawrence, and to construct the armed
boats to be kept there, according to a former resolution of Congress:
That the bounty given by general Schuyler for encouraging men to enter
into the Canadian service be approved, in consideration of the severe climate
and inclement season:
That by the resolution of Congress of the 8th of last month, respecting the
provisions and stores to be sent to Fort George, it was intended as general
Schuyler understood it, that he should be supplied with such of those articles
as he should require:
That general Schuyler be desired to employ such batteau-men as are in or
near Albany, instead of those it was recommended to the convention of New-
York to procure, upon the best terms he can, and to acquaint Congress for
what wages they will serve.’
That captain Wyncoop be employed under commodore Douglass, in
the naval department. 4. º
Ordered, That general Schuyler's narrative of his march into Tryon county
be published in the newspapers. te
The committee to whom the memorial of Samson Occum, one of the Mohe-
gan Indians, in Connecticut, was referred, brought in their report: Where-
upon,
"ºwled, That a friendly commerce between the people of the United Co-
ionies and the Indians, and the propagation of the gospel, and the cultivation
of the civil arts among the latter, may produce many and inestimable advan-
tages to both ; and that the commissioners for Indian affairs be desired to con-
sider of proper places in their respective departments for the residence of
ministers and school-masters, and report the same to Congress:
That the commissioners for Indian affairs in the northern department be de-
sired to enquire of Mr. Jacob Fowler, of the Montauke tribe of Indians, on
Long-Island, and Mr. Joseph Johnson, of the Mohegan, upon what terms they
will reside among the Six Nations of Indians, and instruct them in the Chris-
tian religion. t
Resolved, That Mr. Dohicky Arundel, who was recommended to the notice
of Congress by Mr. Lewis, be desired to repair to general Schuyler, and that
general Schuyler be directed to examine him, and if he finds him capable, and
suitably qualified, to employ him in the artillery service in Canada.
Dr. Cadwallader having, in a letter to the president, represented, that, being
sent for by general Prescot last Saturday night, he found him in a dangerous
state of health ; and farther expressing an apprehension that the dampness of
the room may endanger the general’s life, if he remains there long; it was,
thereupon,
Resolved, That Dr. Cadwallader be desired to have proper lodgings provid-
ed fºr general Prescot, and that general Prescot be removed from the gaol to
said, lodgings, and there kept under a guard.
That the commanding officer of the troops in the barracks of Philadelphia,
be directed to keep a proper guard over general Prescot.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, February 6, 1776.
A letter from the committee of safety for New-York was read, informing that
general Clinton arrived there on the 4th instant, but that it was apprehended
his destination was to the southward.
Ordered, That a copy of said letter be sent to the southern colonies.
256 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
The Congress, being informed that col. Heard having performed the service
enjoined him, was ready to make report of his proceedings,
Tesolved, That a committee of three be appointed to confer with col. Heard,
and receive his report:
The members chosen, Mr. Crane, Mr. E. Rutledge, and Mr. M'Kean.
A petition from sundry captains of the New-Jersey battalions was laid bc.
fore Congress and read : Whereupon,
Resolved, That the sum of one dollar and one-third of a dollar be allowed
to the officers of the two first New-Jersey battalions, for every recruit by them
raised, and that has passed muster. º
A letter from the committee of Reading, in Berks county, was read, men-
tioning the arrival of a number of prisoners, and desiring to know how they arc
to be supported ; -
Resolved, That the same be referred to the committee appointed to contract
for supplying the prisoners. -
Resolved, That two members be added to the said committee in the room of
those absent. *
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson and Mr. Wolcott.
The committee on the regulations of trade, after the first of March next,
brought in their report, which was read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to Thursday next, then to be considered
in a committee of the whole. * * *
Resolved, That general Schuyler be desired to encourage suttlers to attend
the army in Canada; and that they return such specic as they shall receive for
the articles they supply it with, to the commissary, who shall draw orders,
countersigned by the general, for the amount thereof, upon the president; by
which a sufficient stock may bein hand to pay off the soldiers, and the risk and
expense of sending money for that purpose may be avoided.
The committee appointed to confer with col. Heard laid before Congress a
list of nineteen persons taken into custody by him, agreeable to the orders of
Congress, and brought to Philadelphia ; also two oaths taken by a number of
the inhabitants of £ong Island ; one upon delivering up their arms, and the
other respecting their future conduct.
The names of the prisoners are Benjamin Whitehead, Joseph French, John
Polhemus, Nathaniel Moor, Samuel Hallet, William Weyman, John Shoals,
John Willet, Gilbert Van Wyck, Daniel Kissam, Jacob Mott, Gabriel G. Lud-
low, Charles Hicks, Samuel Martin, Samuel Clowes, Thomas Smith, George
Weeks, David Brooks, John Townsend.
Resolved, That the said prisoners be sent to New-York, and delivered to the
order of the convention of that colony, who are requested to confine or secure
the said prisoners, until an enquiry be had by the convention into their conduct,
and report thereof made to this Congress. . .
Ordered, That the committee confer with colonel Heard about the mode of
sending the prisoners to New-York.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To George Kennedy, on sundry certificates by him produced, the sum of
427.1 dollars, of which 338.9 dollars, being for rifles, &c. furnished to captain
Morgan’s company of riflemen from Virginia, ought to be charged to said com-
pany, and the remainder to the continent. * x
Ordered, That the same be paid. ->
IResolved, That a committee of five be appointed to bring in a resolution re-
specting the exportation of naval stores for º: ublic service :
The members chosen, Mr. Hewes, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Ward, Mr. Paine, and
Mr. S. Adams. '
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 257
_s=-
~~~~ *——A-
WEDNESDAY, February 7, 1776.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favor of Peter Web:
bers, an express, for the sum of eight dollars, for the time he has been detained
in town.
Two letters from lord Sterling, one of the 2d, and the other of the 5th of this
month, with sundry papers enclosed, were read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Chase, Mr. Rutledge, and Mr. Wythe.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the
letter from the committee of safety for New-Jersey, respecting the prisoners;
and, after debate, &
Resolved, That the same be re-committed to the committee who brought it
in, and to the committee appointed to take an account of the prisoners:
That it be an instruction to the committee to examine the capitulations en-
tered into with the prisoners at the time of their surrender, to have the paroles
of the officers taken, to order them to their respective places of residence, to
see that the capitulations be duly observed, and the orders of Congress, res-
pecting the prisoners, punctually carried into execution, and, finally, to make
a return to Congress of the paroles of the officers, their names, and places of
residence, and also the number of privates, and where placed.
As only three of the former committees are now present, viz. Mr. Adams,
Mr. M'Kean, and Mr. Smith, -
Resolved, That two more be added:
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson and Mr. Wolcott.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of Mr. James
Mease, for the sum of 10,000 dollars, for the use of the battalions ordered to
be raised in Pennsylvania, he to be accountable:
That a like order be drawn in favor of the naval committee, for the sum of
20,000 dollars, to enable them to discharge the debts by them contracted, the
said committee to be accountable:
That the sum of 250,000 dollars be sent to the pay-master general, for the
use of the army at Cambridge. w
The committee on the letter from Reading, reported, that they have had a
conference with David Franks, esq. agent to the contractors for victualling the
king's troops, who says he will order rations to be issued to the prisoners lately
brought to Reading: Whereupon,
Resolved, That D. Franks, esq., be permitted to victual the prisoners at
Reading, and to sell his bills to defray the expense thereof:
That directions be given to Henry Holler to furnish said prisoners with fuel
and other necessaries.
A memorial from Murray, Sansom & Co. Jacob Watson, and Frederick
Rhinelander, of the city of New-York, was presented to Congress and read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of three:
The members chosen, Mr. Lee, Mr. Nelson, and Mr. Read.
A petitiºn of Pierre L’Farque being presented to Congress and read,
Resolved, That it be referred to the secret committee.
Resolved, That a committee of three be a pointed to examine the journals,
and report a list of the matters vet jº
The members chosen, Mr. E. utledge, Mr. Duane, and Mr. Smith.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, February 8, 1776.
**** That the money voted yesterday, be sent to the pay-master ge.
neral, under the care of colonel Bull, and two other trusty persons.
pa º: ºuter. transmitted to Congress an account of sundry drafts by them
Vol. 1. 33
N.
258 Journals of CONGRESS, 1776.
a-ºh- *-a-. —º
1775. August 23. One in favor of John Mease, by general Washington, for
266 2–3 dollars. p - *
Nov. 27. One in favor of Dr. Franklin, by Jámes Warren, for 7111 dollars.
1776. Feb. 2. One in favor of Cox and Furman, by ditto, for 1000 dollars.
Feb. 6. One in favor of John Beane, by ditto, for 750 dollars.
Ordered, That the above sums be charged to the account of James Warren,
the pay-master general. f
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to contract with a proper
person to supply colonel Wayne's battalion with the rations allowed them.
Also with a proper person to supply the Pennsylvania troops on the West
side of the Susquehanna; and with a proper person to supply the battalion
ordered to be raised in the counties on Delaware, while in that government.
The members chosen, Mr. Morton, Mr. Lewis, and Mr. Wilson.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Tench Tilghman, for escorting money from Philadelphia to general
Schuyler, the sum of 286.9 dollars.
To Azariah Dunham on sundry certificates for provisions to several rifle
companies, 25.8 dollars.
To Melchior Meng, for wagon-hire, in carrying money to Cambridge, the
sum of 76 dollars.
To Moses Gale, for the entertainment of captain Cluggage’s company of
riflemen, 9.7 dollars, to be paid to Henry Wisner, esq.
To John B. Scott, for expenses in conducting general Prescot from Trenton
to Philadelphia, 14.3 dollars.
To George Bunner, for wagon-hire, in carrying money from Philadelphia to
general Schuyler, last November, 39 dollars.
To Dennis Sneeden, for ferriage, provisions, &c. the sum of 50.6 dollars, to
be paid to John Alsop, esq. \ t
o Jesse Jones, for horse-hire, 8.7 dollars, to be paid to Mr. Dealing.
To Mark Bird, for necessaries to prisoners, 5.8 dollars.
To George Meade & Co. on several certificates, 104.4 dollars, of which 99.2
being for rifles furnished to captain H. Stevenson’s company, ought to be
charged to said company.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid. w
The committee farther reported, that Mr. M'Kean had laid before them, an
account of the application of 40 dollars put into his hands by Congress, by
which it appears, that there remains in his Wººd. the sum of 15.4 dollars.
Ordered, That the same be paid to Timothy Matlack, he to be accountable.
The committee on the disposition of the prisoners, reported the form of a
parole to be signed by the officers, which being read, was agreed to as follows:
: I being made a prisoner of war, by the army of the thirteen Unit-
ed Colonies in North-America, do promise and engage, on my word and honor,
and on the faith of agentleman, to depart from hence immediately to
in the province of being the place of my election; and there, or with-
in six miles thereof, to remain during the present war between Great-Britain
and the said United Colonies, or until the Congress of the said United Colo-
nies shall order otherwise; and that I will not directly or indirectl y, give any
intelligence whatsoever to the enemies of the United Colonies, or do or say
any thing in opposition to, or in prejudice of the measures and proceedings of
any Congress for the said colonies, during the present troubles, or until I am
duly exchanged or discharged. f w
Given under my hand, this day of A. D.
The secret committee, to whom the petition of Mr. Pierre L’Farque was
Areferred, brought in their report, Whereupon,
Resºlved, That Mr. Pierre L'Farque be permitted to load the sloop, in
which he imported a smáll quantity of powder and arms, with the produce of
º
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 259
-
-
these colonies (horned cattle, sheep, hogs, poultry, and lumber for making casks
excepted) and export the same to Martinique. And that the said Mr. Pierre
L’Farqué do take every possible precaution to avoid all British men of war and
cutters on the voyage, and use his utmost endeavors to import into these colo-
nies the powder and arms mentioned in his memorial, and proposed to be im-
ported by him. a.º."
The committee on the memorial of Sanson, Murray and Co. &c. brought
in their report, which was read, and ordered to lie on the table.
A memorial from the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, respecting the
erecting of powder mills, was presented to Congress and read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of Dohicky
Arundel, for the sum of 1000 dollars, and that he be directed immediately to
repair to general Schuyler: .
That a quarter cask of powder be delivered to captain Craig, of cołonel St.
Clair’s battalion, for the use of his company: &
That the sum of 12,000 dollars be advanced to the convention or committee
of safety of New-York, for the use of the four battalions ordered to be raised
there; that the same be transmitted by the delegates of that colony, the said
convention or committee of safety to be accountable.
A memorial from Dr. Connolly, together with a letter from Dr. Benjamin
Rush, respecting the state of said Connolly’s health, was presented to Con-
gress and read: Whereupon, 2
Resolved, That the said J. Connolly be allowed, at suitable times, to walk
in the prison-yard or hall, the gaol-keeper taking especial care to prevent his
€SCàI) e. *
†. inhabitants of Richmond county, in the colony of New-York, having
refused to send deputies to represent them in provincial convention, and other-
wise manifested their enmity and opposition to the system and measures adopt-
ed for preserving the liberties of America; and, as a just punishment for their
inimical conduct, the inhabitants of that colony, having been prohibited by the
convention, from all intercourse and dealings with the inhabitants of the said
county, and this Congress being informed by the committee of safety of that
colony, that the freeholders of the said county did afterwards, without any op-
position, elect deputies to represent thern in provincial convention; but, as
the proceedings against them had been submitted to the consideration of Con-
gress, it was apprehended the deputies could not be received, until the sense
of Congress thereupon should be communicated:
Resolved, therefore, That it be referred to the said provincial convention,
to take such measures respecting the admission of the A. and revoking
the interdict against the inhabitants of said county, as they shall judge most
expedient; provided, that the said deputies, and major part of the inhabitants
of said county, shall subscribe the association entered into, in that colony.
Resolved, That Monday, the 19th day of this month, be assigned for Dr.
Smith, to deliver a funeral oration in honor of general Montgomery, and of
those officers and soldiers who so magnanimously fought and fell with him in
maintaining the principles of American liberty.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
£ FRIDAY, February 9, 1776.
Mr. Elbridge Gerry, from the Massachusetts-Bay, attended, and produced
a. certificate of the appointment of delegates from that colony; which was
read, and is as follows:
“IN CouncIL, January 18, 1776.
Whereas John Hancock, Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine,
and Elbridge Gerry, esqrs, have been chosen, by jointballot of the two houses
260 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
of assembly, to represent the colony of Massachusetts-Bay in New-England,
in the American Congress, until the first day of January, A. D. 1777.
Resolved, That they, or any one or more of them, are hereby fully empow-
ered with the delegates from the other American colonies, to concert, direct,
and order such farther measures, as shall to them appear best calculated for
the establishment of right and liberty to the American colonies, upon a basis
permanent and secure, against the power and art of the British administration,
and guarded against any future encroachments of their enemies, with power
to adjourn to such times and places, as shall appear most conducive to the
public safety and advantage.
Read and accepted. Sent down for concurrence.
JOHN LOWELL, Dep. Sec. pro tem.
IN THE House of REPRESENTATIVES, January 18, 1776.
Read and concurred. And the secretary is hereby directed, as soon as may
be, to signify to each of those gentlemen their appointment, with an attested
copy of this order. Sent up for concurrence.
JAMES WARREN, Speaker.
IN CouncIL, January 18, 1776.
Read and concurred.
JOHN LOWELL, Dep. Secretary pro tem.
A true copy.
Attest, PEREZ MORTON, Deputy Secretary.”
Sundry letters being received, were laid before Congress, and read, viz. .
Two from general Washington, one of the 24th, and the other of 30th of Ja-
nuary, enclosing a copy of one to general Schuyler, the 27th January, and a
number of intercepted letters: -
Three from general Schuyler, 29th and 31st January, and 1st of February,
enclosing copies of two letters from colonel Arnold, and sundry other papers:
One from governor Trumbull, 3d February, with sundry papers enclosed :
Resolved, That the foregoing letters be referred to a committee of five.
The members chosen, Mr. Chase, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Penn, Mr. Wythe, and
Mr. Rutledge.
Two letters from the convention of New-Jersey, of the 6th of February, were
read; the one respecting tea was referred for consideration to Monday next;
the other, recommending persons for field officers of the third battalion, order-
ed to be raised in that colony: Whereupon the Congress proceeded to election,
and
Elias Dayton was elected colonel.
Anthony Walter White, lieutenant-colonel.
Francis Barber, major.
A memorial from Mr. Kirkland was presented to Congress and read.
Ordered, To lie on the table. \
The Congress taking into consideration the report of the committee on the
second memorial of Sansom, Murray, & Co. &c.
Resolved, That the memorialists be permitted to make sale of their cargo of
wheat in Connecticut, or else to º on their original voyage to Falmouth,
in England, and a market under the office, papers, and clearances, which the
said vessel sailed with from New-York in September last; and also subject to
the former restrictions of Congress, respecting the appointment of a commander.
º Congress being informed of the arrival of some arms, powder, and salt-
petre, *r
Resolved, That the committee appointed on the 13th of last month, to pur-
chase the salt-petre then imported, &c. be directed and empowered to take eve-
*Y necessary measure to have the salt-petre, now arrived, manufactured into
gun-powder with all possible expedition. *
$
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 261
That two tons of the powder now arrived, belonging to the United Colonies,
be delivered to the committee of safety for Pennsylvania, in part of the powder
borrowed of them :
That one ton of said powder be delivered to the delegates of North-Caroli-
na, in consequence of a former order of Congress, which has not yet been com-
lied with :
That the committee appointed for manufacturing the salt-petre into gun-
powder, be directed to enquire into the state and quantity of the arms, powder
and salt-petre now arrived, and report to Congress.
A memorial from Stacy Hepburn was presented to Congress and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of three :
The members chosen, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. Nelson, and Mr. Penn.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday next.
MONDAY, February 12, 1776.
A letter from general Lee, dated the 9th instant, being received, was read,
wherein he informs that a transport with troops was arrived at New-York, that
more might be expected, and, therefore, that a farther reinforcement was ne-
cessary to secure and defend that place: Whereupon,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention or committee of safety
of New-Jersey, immediately to send detachments of their minute-men equal to
a battalion, under proper officers, to New-York, there to be under the command
of major-general Lee: -
..That it be also recommended to the committee of safety for Pennsylvania,
immediately to send detachments of the four battalions of associators in Phila-
jºin. to New-York, there to put themselves under the command of general
€62,
Resolved, That the colonels of the battalions ordered to be raised in Penn-
sylvania, be directed to make an immediate return to Congress of the men in-
listed, * places where they now are, and the manner in which they are ap-
pointe
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to send to New-York, one
ton of the powder belonging to the United Colonies, and that the same be deli-
vered to the order of general Lee: *
That the said committee be empowered to purchase, for the use of the United
Colonies, on the best terms they can, what powder and arms arrive belonging
to private persons, ; and that they furnish with good arms such of the three re-
maining companies of the first Pennsylvania battalion, destined for Canada, as
may want them, in order that they may immediately proceed on their march.
Resolved, That fifty tons of salt-petre be!. by the secret committee
to the committee of safety for Pennsylvania, who are requested to have the same
manufactured into gun-powder, in the cheapest and most expeditious manner;
and that this Congress will confirm any contracts made for the above purpose:
. That ten tons of salt-petre be by them sent to Mr. J. R. Livingston’s mill,
in the colony of New-York, and that Mr. Livingston be desired to manufacture
it intº powder, as soon as possible, and to enlarge his works, if it can conve-
niently be done : *
That ten tons of salt-petre be also by them sent to the council of the colony
of Massachusetts-Bay, and that they be desired to have it manufactured into
gun-powder, with all possible expedition, and sent to general Washington, for
the use of the army, under his command.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the committee of inspection for the
. of Chester, to aid colonel Wayne in procuring blankets for his bat-
à11011,
The Congress being informed that a gentleman was arrived from Canada,
who had matters of importance to communicate,
262 Jourt NALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Ordered, That the committee of correspondence confer with him and report
to Congress.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, February 13, 1776.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favor of John Chap-
man, for the sum of 800 dollars, to discharge a draught of the pay-master
general, in favor of William Thomson, esq. dated the 28th of December last;
and that the same be charged to the account of the pay-master general.
Sundry letters being received, were read, viz.
One from the convention of New-Jersey, dated the 10th ; and one from
Messsrs. Dayton and Barber, of the 12th ; and one from captain John Neville,
dated Pittsburg, of the 1st of this month; and one from John Gibson, dated
the 20th of January last.
Resolved, That the two last letters be referred to the committee on the In-
dian affairs, in the middle department:
That a committee of three be appointed to take into consideration the two
former letters. .*
The members chosen, Mr. Smith, Mr. Bartlett, and Mr. Adams.
Resolved, That an order for 8000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favour of the committee of safety for the three lower counties on Delaware,
for the use of the battalion raising in that government, the said committee to
be accountable : *
That an order for 10,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of
James Mease, for the use of the Pennsylvania battalions; he to be accountable:
That Mr. Mease be directed to supply the troops in the barracks near Phila-
delphia, with wooden bowls, buckets, and other necessaries.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the committee of safety for Pennsyl-
vania, in case the barracks near Philadelphia cannot contain all the troops
raised in said colony, that they cause part of them to be quartered in the
pest-house and old gaol of this city.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favor of colonel
Bull, for the sum of 150 dollars, to defray his expenses in carrying money to
Cambridge, he to be accountable.
The committee on the petition of Stacy Hepburn, brought in their report,
which was agreed to as follows: *
That the said petitioner be permitted to load the sloop Dolphin, with the
produce of these colonies, (live stock and lumber for making casks excepted)
and to transport the same to Hispaniola, he promising to use his utmost en-
deavors to remit the amount of said cargo in military stores, into some port
of this continent, as soon as possible.
The committee appointed to prepare a resolution for the exportation of
naval stores, brought in the same, which was agreed to as follows:
Resolved, That when naval stores shall be wanted in any of the United
Colonies, the assembly, convention, or committee of safety of such colony,
‘may entrust a proper person or persons to import the same, taking sufficient
security of him or them, that they will faithfully use their best endeavors to
import the same into such port or ports as the said assembly, convention, or
committee of safety shall direct, and, as much as possible, to avoid all British
men of war and cutters; giving him or them, a certificate or certificates of
the naval stores wanted, and also of his having given the said security: And
that it be recommended to the convention, council of safety, and committees
of observation and inspection of North-Carolina, upon receiving such certifi-
cates, to permit the person or persons producing the same, to report to the
colony applying for the same, the naval stores wanted by such colony :
That it be further recommended to the said convention, council of safety,
and committees of inspection and ohservation in North-Carolina, to give per:
z
*
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 263
.e.
—i- -h
——
mission to such vessels as may have arrived in that colony, for those articles,
or such of the vessels belonging to that colony, as they may think proper, to
export naval stores to any of the United Colonies, taking security as in the
other cases above mentioned.
Resolved, That the pay and subsistence of two of the battalions ordered to .
be raised in the colony of Virginia, commence from the first day of November
Hast; from which time they have been in actual service.
The convention of Virginia having recommended persons for field officers of
the six battalions ordered to be raised in that colony, the Congress proceeded
to an election, when,
Patrick Henry, esq. was elected colonel, William Christian, esq. lieutenant-
colonel, Frank Eppes, esq. major, of the first battalion.
William Woodford, esq. colonel, Charles Scott, esq. lieutenant-colonel,
Alexander Spottswood, esq. major, of the second battalion.
Hugh Mercer, esq. colonel, George Weedon, esq. lieutenant-colonel, Tho-
Thas Marshal, esq. major, of the third battalion.
Adam Stephen, esq. colonel, Isaac Read, esq. lieutenant-colonel, Robert
Lawson, esq. major, of the fourth battalion.
William Peachy, esq. colonel, William Crawford, esq. lieutenant-colonel,
Josiah Parker, esq. major of the fifth battalion.
Mordecai Buckner, esq. colonel, Thomas Elliot, esq. lieutenant-colonel,
James Hendricks, esq. major, of the sixth battalion. º
Ordered, That the president fili up commissions to the above officers, and
that he send blank commissions to the convention of Virginia, to be by them
filled up with the names of the officers appointed by them in the said battalions,
under the rank of a major.
Resolved. That the deputy muster-master general be directed to muster the
battalion raised in the three lower counties on Delaware, and also those raised
in Pennsylvania, and make return to Congress.
Resolved. That a committee of five be appointed to consider into what de-
partments the middle and southern colonies ought to be formed, in order that
the military operations of the colonies may be carried on in a regular and sys-
tematic manner: 4.
The members chosen, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Penn, Mr. Harrison,
and Mr. Alexander. .*
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of the dele-
gates of Virginia, for the sum of 20,000 dollars, for the use of the battalions
ordered to be raised there, the convention of that colony to be accountable.
. Resolved, That Mr. M'Kean be desired to request the committee of inspec-
tion and observation for the city and liberties of Philadelphia, not to proceed
ºn passing any censures on the venders, and users of tea, till further orders
from Congress.
Resolved, That the detachments marching from Philadelphia to New-York,
under the command of colonel Dickinson, be allowed for subsistence, while on
their march, the sum of one dollar and one-third of a dollar per week for each
of the privates and non-commissioned officers; and that the commissioned
ofºs be allowed in proportion, according to the rations allotted to them,
and that they receive the same pay as the four Pennsylvania battalions, from
the time they begin their march.
e That à. committee of three be appointed to consider the best method of sub-
sisting the troops in New-York, and what sum of money it will be necessary
to send thither, and also what sum ought to be advanced to colonel Dickinson.
The members chosen, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Duane, and Mr. Wilson.
. A petition from Mr. Bernard Romans, was presented to Congress, and read:
*ēsolved, That it be recommended to the convention of New-York, to pay
Mr. Bernard Romans up to the 9th day of the present month.
*
264 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That an order for 600 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favor of Samuel Fairlamb (who has contracted to supply colonel Wayne's
battalion, quartered in and near Chester, at the rate of seven-ninetieths of a
dollars per ration) to enable him to execute his contract, he to be accountable.
The committee appointed to prepare an address to the inhabitants of the
United Colonies, brought in a draft, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That captain Gordon, upon giving his parole, be permitted, while
he remains in town, to visit general Prescot at proper seasons.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, February 14, 1776.
Resolved, That two of the brass six pounders at New-York, belonging to the
United Colonies, be sent to Virginia for the use of the forces there.
Sundry letters being received, were read:
One from general Schuyler of the 7th of this month; one from general
Wooster of the 29th of January, and one from general Arnold of the 24th of
said month.
Resolved, That the foregoing letters, with the papers enclosed, be referred
to a committee of three :
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. J. Adams, and Mr. Chase.
A letter from the committee of Amboy, dated 10th of this month, was read,
and referred for consideration till to-morrow.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To John Ware, for conducting a French gentleman from Harwick township,
in Sussex county, to Philadelphia, the sum of 13.2 dollars.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Application being made by some of the master-carpenters employed in
building the continental frigates, to some members of this house, informing,
that about fifty of their Journeymen and apprentices had engaged as volun-
teers to march with the battalion of associators of New-York, and that their
zeal for the public service was such; that they cannot be persuaded to desist
by any arguments or influence of said builders:
Resolved, That the spirit and zeal of the said journeymen and apprentices
is highly approved of by Congress; but, nevertheless, it is the opinion of this
Congress, that the public will be more essentially served by their continuing
at work on the said continental frigates; and that, therefore, all the carpenters,
journeymen, and apprentices, employed as aforesaid, be requested to remain
in that service, as there is no doubt but other associators will complete the
number wanted. i
The Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
consideration the report of the committee on the regulations and restrictions
under which the ports should be opened after the first day of March next;
and, after some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr.
Ward reported, that the committee had taken into consideration, the matter
referred to them, but not having come to a conclusion, desired leave to sit
agſällſle *
*oled, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into farther consideration, the report of the committee
on the restrictions and regulations of trade after the first of March next.
The committee of correspondence, who were ordered to confer with the
gentlemen from Canada, brought in their report, which was read:
Resolved, That the consideration thereof be referred till to-morrow. &
. The committee appointed to consider the best method of subsisting the troops
in New-York, laid their report on the table.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. '
*3
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 265
THURSDAY, February 15, 1776.
Resolved, That the secret committee deliver one hundred and fifty stand of
arms to colonel Maxwell, for the use of such of the companies of his bat-
talion as want them, in order that they may immediately proceed to Canada.
The committee to whom the letters from the convention of New-Jersey, and
from the field officers of the third battalion, ordered to be raised in that colo-
ºft were referred, brought in their report, which was read, and agreed to as
OliOWS :
Resolved, That colonel Heard be directed to furnish colonel Dayton with
such of the arms lately brought from Long-Island, as are or may be made fit
for service, or so many of them as colonel Dayton may desire:
That 30,000 dollars be advanced to Thomas Lowry on account; and that he
be fully authorized to procure all necessaries (except arms) ordered by Con-
i. for the three battalions raised, or to be raised, in the colony of New-
erSev : º
i. the convention or committee of safety of New-Jersey be allowed from
the continental stock, half a ton of powder, out of which they are to re-pay
what has been borrowed from Elizabeth-Town, Somerset, Woodbridge, and
Brunswick:
That to the same convention or committee of safety, be advanced the further
sum of 5,000 dollars, for the purpose of º the three battalions
there with arms, which they are desired to accomplish with all possible
expedition.
Resolved, That two tons of the powder, belonging to the continent, be deliv-
ered to the delegates of Virginia, |. the use of the forces in that colony.
Sundry letters by col. Ritzema being received, were read, viz.
One from general Lee, dated the 11th, and one from general Schuyler, of
the 4th of this month, with one from general Wooster of the 27th of January.
Resolved, That the said letters be referred to the committee to whom the
letters received yesterday were referred, and that the said committee be direct-
ed to confer with colonel Ritzema, and report to Congress.
Information being received that general Clinton was gone from New-York,
the Congress came to the following resolution:
. The Congress have a proper sense of the spirit and patriotism of the asso-
ciators of the city and liberties of Philadelphia, in cheerfully offering and
preparing to march, in order to assist in the defence of New-York; but, as
the danger which occasioned an application for their service, is at present over,
JResolved, That their march to §. be suspended.
. Resolved, That a pay-master be appointed for the troops in Virginia, and that
his pay be 50 dollars per month.
The Congress then proceeded to the election, and Benjamin Harrison, jun.
of Berkly, was chosen. .* *
The Congress taking into consideration the report of the committee of
correspondence, -
Resolved, That a committee of three (two-of whom to be members of Con-
gress) be appointed to repair to Canada, there to pursue such instructions as
shall be given them by Congress:
The members chosen, Dr. Benjamin Franklin, Mr. S. Chase, and Mr. C.
Carroll, of Carrollton. W
Resolved, That Mr. Carroll be requested to prevail on Mr. John Carroll to
accºmpany the committee to Canada, to assist them in such matters as they
shall think useful :
That, this Congress will make provision to defray any expenses which may
attend this measure.
Resolved, That eight tons of powder be immediately sent to Canada, for the
use of the forces there. ' \
Vol. I. - 34
*.
266 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
*
--~~assº
The committee of claims reported, that there is due, gº
To Richard Smith, for provisions furnished by sundry persons in New-York
government, to captain Ross's company of rifle men, the sum of 28.8 dollars;
To Michael Connolly, on account of expenses in bringing the women and
children belonging to the 26th and 7th regiments from Esopus to Reading, the
sum of 1682.8 dollars:
To colonel Simes on account of expenses in bringing the baggage of the 26th
and 7th regiments from Walpack to Lancaster, and several other small ex-
penses, the sum of 569 dollars:
To Thomas M’Enry, for 800 canteen straps, thé sum of 1333 dollars. .
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid. $
The committee, to whom the letter from the committee of safety of New-
York of the 3d of January, and the letter from governor Trumbull of the 6th
of the same month, were referred, brought in their report, which was taken
into consideration: Whereupon, *
Resolved, That no farther works be erected on Martler’s rock, but, that those
already erected there, be supported and garrisoned: *
That a fascine battery, to mount heavy cannon, not exceeding eighteen in
number, to be thrown up on the Gravel #. eastward of Martler’s rock,
marked in the draught LL, so as to command the west point, the reach down the
river from the west point, and part of the reach up the river: and that a con-
venient road be opened from this battery to the barracks on Martler’s rock: .
That a redoubt of earth and fascines be built on the eminence on the east
side of the river, opposite to the west point marked in the draught A, to mount
thirty guns:
º it be recommended to the convention or committee of safety of New-
York, to forward the battery at Pooplopen's kill; and that the said battery be
made of earth and fascines, and to mount a number of guns, not exceeding
forty : $
Tit such of the continental troops as are or may be stationed at the afore-
said places, be employed in erecting these works and batteries, under the di-
rection of the engineer:
That it be recommended to the convention or committee of safety of New-
York, to prosecute the discovery of the lead mine at New Canaan; and that
a copy of the report of Joseph Hopkins to the general assembly of Connecti-
cut respecting this mine, be sent to them.
The Congress took into consideration the report from the committee of the
whole house, and after debate,
Resolved, That the same be re-committed. \
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow morning, resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into consideration the propriety of opening
the ports, and the restrictions and regulations of the trade of these colonies
after the first of March next.
Resolved, That the committee on ways and means to procure cannon, be di-
rected to enquire what quantity of brass can be procured, and that they be em-
powered to contract for the same.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, February 16, 1776.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to furnish colonel St. Clair's
battalion with arms, and that the president write to colonel St. Clair, and di-
*ct him to use the utmost diligence in getting his battalion ready, and to march
the companies, one at a time, as fast as they can be got ready, to Canada, with
all possible expedition.
The committee appointed to make an estimate of the cannon wanted for
the defence of the colonies, and to devise ways and means for procuring them,
&c. brought in their report, which was read, and ordered to lieſ on the table.
w?
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 267
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com"
mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the propriety of opening the
ports, and the restrictions and regulations of the trade of these colonies after
the first of March next; and, after some time, the president resumed the chair,
and Mr. Ward reported, that the committee had taken into consideration the
matter referred to them, but not having come to a conclusion, desired him to
move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow morning, resolve itself into
a committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the proprie-
ty of *...; the ports, and the restrictions and regulations of trade after the
first of March next. -- **
The committee to whom general Washington’s and general Schuyler's let-
ters were referred, laid their report on the table.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to morrow.
SATURDAY, February 17, 1776.
Resolved, That an order for ten thousand dollars be drawn on the treasurers
in favor of James Mease, for the use of the Pennsylvania battalions, he to be ac-
countable. g
That colonel James Irvine, of the sixth º battalion, be autho-
rized and empowered to purchase good arms for the use of his battalion, the
price of the same to be deducted out of the pay of the men.
The committee on the state of the treasury, brought in a report, which was
read: .
Resolved, That a standing committee of five be appointed for superintend-
ing the treasury:
That it be the business of this committee,
To examine the accounts of the treasurers, and, from time to time, report
to Congress the state of the treasury;
To consider of ways and means for supplying gold and silver for the sup-
port of the army in Canada:
To º and instruct proper persons for liquidating the public accounts,
with the different pay-masters and commissaries in the continental service,
and the conventions, committees of safety and others who have been or shall
be entrusted with the public money; and, from time to time, to report the state
of such accounts to Congress:
To superintend the emission of bills of credit:
To obtain from the different assemblies and conventions of the United Colo-
nies, accounts of the number of inhabitants in each colony, according to the
resolution of Congress on that subject.
The members chosen, Mr. Duane, Mr. Nelson, Mr. Gerry, Mr. Smith, and
Mr. Willing. hº
t The Congress taking into consideration the report of the committee on the
reasury;
Resolved, That a farther sum of four millions of dollars be emitted on the "
S㺠Security as the sums heretofore emitted by Congress have been :
That the committee for superintending the treasury be directed to consider
the numbers and denominations of the bills in which it will be proper to emit:
the above four millions, and report to Congress.
The committee appointed to consider into what departments the middle and
southern colonies ought to be divided, brought in their report, which was read.
The committee to whom sundry letters from brigadier-general Arnold, bri-
gadier-general Wooster, major-general Schuyler, and major-general Lee, were
referred, brought in their report, which was taken into consideration; Where-
upon, *
Resolved, That major-general Lee be directed immediately to repair to Ca-
mada, and take command of the army of the United Colonies in that province;
268 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
f
That major-general Schuyler be directed to repair, as soon as his health will
ermit, to New-York, and take the command of the forces, and conduct the mi-
itary operations there : and that the president inform him by express of this
arrangement, and the reasons that led to it:
That it be recommended to the convention or committee of safety of New-
York, to supply general Lee with a quantity of suitable cannon, not exceeding
twelve, and one or more mortars, if to be had, with balls, shells, and other ne-
cessaries for the siege or assault of Quebec; and that they assist him in for."
warding the same with all possible expedition:
That the regiment of Canadians, the raising of which is mentioned in briga-
dier-general Arnold’s letter, of the 12th of January last, to have been put on
foot by him, receive the same pay, and be subject to the same regulations as the
other forces employed in Canada, and be accounted part of the number design-
ed to be raised for that service. *
That the appointment of captain — Rensselaer to be deputy muster-
master general of the forces in Canada, be confirmed:
That the appointment of John Halsted, esq. to be commissary for the army
before Quebec, be confirmed : !
That major-general Schuyler be directed to have provisions stored in proper
places near Hudson’s river, between Albany and the Highlands, to supply such
troops as it may be necessary to call out of the country : .
That the offer made by general Schuyler to pay at the rate of four shillings
per day for each of the sledshired to forward the Pennsylvania and New-Jér-
sey forces in their march to Canada, be complied with :
That the officers in the continental armies be enjoined to use their utmost
diligence in preventing every kind of plunder; and that all who shall offend
herein, be punished according to the strictest discipline:
That the resolves of Congress for encouraging suttlers to attend the army in
Canada, be published, with the information that hosiery, shoes, coarse limens,
soap, rum, sugar, and wine, are much wanted there: *
That a few artificers, such as armorers, Smiths, carpenters, harness-makers,
and wheel-wrights, with proper persons to superintend them, be forthwith sent
to Canada.
, That it be recommended to the convention of New-York, that such of the of.
ficers who served faithfully in Canada the last campaign, as are willing to con-
tinue there, be preferred, in the new levies of the colony of New-York, to others.
Resolved, That a committee of three be chosen to prepare instructions for
the committee appointed to go to Canada.
The members elected, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Wythe, and Mr. Sherman.
Resolved, That this Congress will, on Tuesday next, resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into consideration the propriety of opening the
ports, and the restrictions and regulations of trade, after the first of March next.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to purchase sundry articles of cloth-
ing for the northern army, be directed to contract for good strong shoes for the
army in Canada. *
The Congress taking into consideration the report of the committee on the
§
method of subsisting the troops in New-York, &c.
Resolved, That the sum of thirty-five thousand dollars be advanced to the
convention or committee of safety of New-York, for the support of the troops
employed in the defence of that colony; the said convention or committee of
safety to be accountable for the expenditure thereof; and that an order be
drawn on the treasurers for the above sum, in favor of the delegates of that co-
loy , who are directed to forward the same :
* hat it be recommended to the convention or committee of safety of New-
York, to contract with proper persons for supplying the said troops with the
rations allowed by Congress, and with fuel and other necessaries, on the most
reasonable terms in their power.
* *
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 269
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
On an account exhibited by the committee of Frederick county, Maryland, to
be paid to S. Chase and W. Paca, esqs, the sum of 860.9 dollars, of which 268.4
being for rifles, &c. furnished captain Cressop's company of riflemen, ought to
be charged to the said company, and the remainder to the continent :
To Nicholas Hower, for wagonage, the sum of 74.4 dollars, and that the same
ought to be paid to Daniel Hower. *
Ördered, "That the above accounts be paid.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, February 19, 1776. $.
Met according to adjournment, and having attended the oration delivered
in honor of general Montgomery, and of those officers and soldiers who mag-
nanimously fought and fell with him in maintaining the principles of liberty,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, February 20, 1776.
The convention of New-Jersey having made a new choice of delegates to
represent that colony in Congress, three of said delegates attending, produced
their credentials, which were read as follows: *
“IN PRovincIAL CoNVENTIon, NEw-JERSEY, BRUNswick, 14th Feb. 1776:
Resolved, on motion, unanimously, That William Livingston, John De Hart,
Richard Smith, John Cooper, and Jonathan Dickenson Sergeant, esqrs. be de-
legates to represent this province in the Continental Congress, for the space of
one year, or until others shall be legally appointed in their stead; and that they,
or any three or more of them, have full and ample power to consent and agree
to all measures which such Congress shall deem necessary; and this province
bind themselves to execute, to the utmost of their power, all resolutions which
the said Congress may adopt. And further, if the said Congress shall think
necessary to adjourn, we do authorize our said delegates to represent and act
for this province, in any one Congress to be held by virtue of such adjourn-
ments, A. their delegation. t
A true copy from the minutes,
º WILLIAM PATTERSON, Secretary.”
A letter from general Lee, of the 17th instant, was read.
A memorial from a number of the inhabitants of Northumberland, in the
colony of Pennsylvania, with six papers therein enclosed, was presented to
Congress and read: Also,
A petition from sundry inhabitants near Pittsburg, was presented and read:
º That the above memorial and petition be referred to a committee
OI ilWe,
The members chosen, Mr. Hewes, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Paca, Mr. E.
Rutledge, and Mr. Chase. \ g
Lieutenant Brasher, who had the orders of general Schuyler to conduct a
number of Canadian prisoners to New-Jersey or Fems ylvania, having executed
his orders, laid his instructions before Congress, which were read. Also, Mr.
Shallus; quarter-master of the first Pennsylvania battalion, having had orders
to Sonduct certain prisoners down from Kingston, and having executed his
orders, laid his instructions before Congress, which were read.
Resolved, That these be referred to the committee on the prisoners.
£esolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to colonel Max-
well, or order, twenty stand of arms for the use of his battalion, he to be ac
countable for the same.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the
Ways and means of procuring cannon: Whereupon,
Resolved, That two hundréa and fifty twelve pounders, sixty nine pounders,
and sixty-two four Pounders, be purchased for the use of these colonies:
* \
270 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
-w
That the committee on the ways and means of procuring cannon, be em-
owered to purchase or contract for making the same :
That a new member be added to that committee: ^,
The member chosen, Mr. W. Livingston.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Michael Connolly, expenses for wagon-hire, carrying the prisoners’ bag-
gage from Bethlehem to Reading, and his own expenses four days, the sum of
I60 dollars. A
To Richard Howel, for transportation of powder to Burlington, the sum of
34; dollars. * N.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
Resolved, That colonel Wayne be directed to march with his battalion to
New-York, and put himself under the command of general Lee, or the com-
manding officer there.
The Congress being informed that two prisoners taken at Chambly, and who
had leave to stay at Newark in the province of New-Jersey, on condition of
their making gun locks, for the use of the United Colonies, are not employed
in that work:
Resolved, That the said two prisoners be ordered to Philadelphia, and put
under the direction of Mr. Rittenhouse, to carry on the above business.
The Congress being informed that a quantity of powder, belonging to the
United Colonies, was arrived at Brunswick, in New-Jersey,
Resolved, That Mr. Lewis, Mr. Alsop, and Mr. P. Livingston, be directed
to forward the said i. under a guard, with all possible expedition, to ge-
neral Washington, for the use of the army under his command.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favor of M. la Junesse,
for the sum of 250 dollars, for his services in behalf of the United Colonies.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, February 21, 1776.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Shallus, for his expenses in conducting prisoners from Albany
to Trenton, the sum of 17 3-4 dollars. *
To Caspar Shaaf, for wagonage, the sum of 104 dollars, and that the same
ought to be paid to S. Chase, and W. Paca, esqrs.
Ördered, That the said accounts be paid.
Two letters from general Schuyler, of the 10th and 13th instant, being re-
ceived, were read: ge
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of three:
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Harrison, and Mr. S. Adams.
A letter from the committee of safety for Pennsylvania, of the 20th instant,
respecting the risoners at Lancaster, was read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to the committee on the prisoners.
The committee on the treasury, to whom it was referred to consider the
numbers and denominations of the bills, &c. brought in their report, which was
considered, and agreed to, as follows:
That the four millions of dollars now to be emitted, consist of the following
denominations: •
600,000 of one-sixth of a dollar, 100,000 || 2,660,873 brought up, $1,391,310
600,000 of one-third do. 200,000 130,436 of three do. ſº 391,308
600,000 of one-half do. 300,000 130,435 of four do. º 521,740
600,000 of two-thirds do. 400,000 65,217 of five ’ do. - 326,085
130,436 of one dollar, º 130,436 65,217 of six do. º 391,302
130,437 of two do. - 260,874 65,217 of seven do. - 456,519
§ 65,217 of eight do, - 521,736
2,660,873 carried up, $1,391,310 ——º:-
Y. 3,182,612 $4,000,000
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 271
-*
That the plates engraved for the twoformer emissions, be used in the new emis-
sion of the bills from one to eight dollars inclusive, and that those bills be ex-
pressed in the following words:
No. Dollars.
This bill entitles the bearer to receive Spanish milled dollars,
or the value thereof in gold or silver, according to a resolution of Congress,
passed at º February 17, 1776.
That the said bills be signed by two signers, and each different denomina-
tion numbered from No. 1. progressively.
That one plate with proper devices be engraved for the smaller bills now to
be emitted, under the value of one dollar :
That the form of the bills be as follows:
One of a dollar, according to a resolution of Congress, passed at
Philadelphia, February 17, 1776.
That each of these bills be signed by one signer only, and that each different
denomination be numbered from No. 1. progressively as aforesaid:
That Michael Hillegas, Richard Bache, and Stephen Paschall, esqrs. be ap-
pointed and authorized to inspect the press:
That before they enter upon their office, they shall respectively take an oath
or affirmation, to be to them administered by any magistrate, “well and faithfully
to execute the trust reposed in them by a resolution of Congress, as inspectors
of the press, according to the best of their skill and judgment.” A certificate of
which oath, or affirmation, shall be delivered to the committee on the treasury:
That each of the said inspectors respectively, shall be allowed two dollars
a day for their services, while they shall be employed in inspecting the press,
in the execution of the said trust. . e
Resolved, That the committee on the treasury, be directed to have the fore-
going resolutions carried into execution with all convenient despatch.
The committee for receiving the applications for offices in the continental
army, reported, that they have nominated Mr. Lewis Durham, for surgeon to
the third battalion, now raising in the colony of New-Jersey, and recommend
him to the Congress for appointment to the said office.
Resolved, That the report be agreed to, and that a commission be granted to
Mr. Lewis Durham accordingly.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, February 22, 1776.
Two letters from general Washington, both of the 9th of this month, being
received and read, * *
Resolved, That the said letters be referred to a committee of the whole
Congress. ~~~ *
Accordingly, the Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to
tºke into consideration the letters just received from general Washington, and
after sometime the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that
the Committee had taken into consideration the letters referred to them, but not
having come to a conclusion, desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the letters from general
Washington.
Information being given by a delegate from New-Jersey, that the regiment of
militia, ordered by the convention of that colony to march for the defence of
New-York, in Cºnsequence of the resolve of Congress of the 12th instant,
wanted arms, with which they could not be furnished, unless the Congress
would supply them out of the public stock; the Congress took this matter into
consideration, and being of opinion, that it would not be proper to spare the
ºrms. which are wanted for the battalions raising in the continental
** 3)
272 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That the march of the said battalion of militia be countermanded.
Resolved, That orders issue to quicken colonel Wayne in getting his
battalion ready; and that, as fast as he can get a company properly equipped,
he cause it immediately to march to New-York.
Resolved, That the president be directed to write to the convention of New-
York, and desire them to inform Congress, what progress they have made in
raising the four battalions recommended to be raised in that colony for the de-
fence of the same.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, February 23, 1776.
, Colonel Braxton, a delegate from º attending, produced the creden-
tials of his appointment, which were read, as follows:
“VIRGINtA, IN convention, December 15, 1775.
The convention, according to the order of the day, proceeded to the appoint-
ment of a delegate to represent this colony in the general Congress, in the room
of the late hon. Peyton Randolph, esq. and the members having prepared tickets
with the name of the delegate to be appointed, and put the same into the ballot-
box, Mr.Thomas Ludwell Lee, Mr. Carrington, Mr. Digges, Mr. William Cabel,
and Mr. Carter, of Lancaster, were appointed a committee to examine the
ballot-box, and report on whom the majority fell; and, it appearing, from their
report, that there was a majority of the whole convention in favour of Carter
Braxton, esq. *
Resolved, therefore, That the said Carter Braxton, esq.be appointed a dele-
gate to represent this colony in the room of the late hon. Peyton Randolph, esq.
A copy, JOHN TAZEWELL, Clerk of the Convention.”
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to return to the committee
of safety of Pennsylvania, the arms borrowed of them for the use of the
continent.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Francis Daymon, for translating into French the rules and articles for the
better regulating the continental troops, the sum of 18 1-5 dollars:
To Mons. Mesplet, for printing the military rules, and French letters to the
inhabitants of Canada, the sum of 44 dollars:
To colonel Harrison, for expenses of himself, Mr. Lynch, and Mr. Allen,
on their journey to New York, the sum of 150.9 dollars:
To Jeremiah Traxler, for provisions, &c. for Indians who were in Philadel-
phia in December last, the sum of 40.8 dollars, and that the same ought to b
paid to Mr. Kachlein: * *
To sundry persons for rifles furnished captain Morgan’s company, the sum of
118.3 dollars, which ought to be paid to colonel Nelson, and charged to the
said company.
To Clement Biddle, for shot-pouches, powder-horns, and bullet-moulds,
purchased by him for the Canada regiment, the sum of 1169.3 dollars:
To sundry persons for blankets supplied captain Price's company, the sum
of 32.9 dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to George Read, esq.
To captain Little, for provisions for guards attending captain Campbell, the
sum of 9.5 dollars:
To Christian Rhorbeck, for necessaries furnished to several prisoners of the
7th and 26th regiments, the sum of 9.4 dollars, and that the same ought to be
paid to Adam Kimmel :
To Henry Shits, for rifles, &c. furnished to captain Stevenson's company, the
sum of 78.6 dollars, to be charged to the said company:
To Abraham Ebrasher, for attending several French noblesse, from Albany to
Bristol, the sum of 32 dollars. -
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
Journals of congress, 1776. 273
-1–
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to contract for the making
of muskets and bayonets for the use of the United Colonies, and to consider
of farther ways and means of promoting and encouraging the manufacture of
fire arms in all parts of the United Colonies.
The members chosen, Mr. Paine, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Huntington, Mr. Lee, and
Mr. L. Morris.
Resolved, That the letter of Mr. Christopher Leffingwell, dated the 29th
November, 1775, with sundry papers relating to the cargo of the brig Nancy,
be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Huntington, and Mr. Gerry.
Resolved, That the secret committee be empowered for the pupose of pro-
curing arms and ammunition, to export the produce of these colonies, equal to
the amount of that by them exported in two vessels lately taken by the enemy.
Resolved, That the committee, for superintending the treasury, be authori-
zed to employ one or more clerks for stating, keeping, and liquidating the pub-
lic accounts, under their direction, and to provide books and a suitable office
for that purpose:
That they have power to call upon the different committees of Congress, as-
semblies, conventions, councils or committees of safety, continental officers, and
private persons, who have been or shall be entrusted with public money, for their
accounts and vouchers, and for such other materials and information, as the
said committee on the treasury shall judge to be useful, in stating, checking
and auditing the public accounts.
* Resolved, That it be recommended to the several assemblies, conventions,
councils, or committees of safety, and committees of correspondence and in-
spection in the United Colonies, to exert themselves, in devising farther ways
and means of promoting and encouraging the manufacture of salt-petre, and of
introducing that manufacture into private families.
That it be recommended to the assemblies and conventions in the United
Colonies, that they immediately establish public works in each and every coun-
ty, in their respective colonies, at the expense of such colonies, for the manu-
facture of salt-petre, and appoint committees of their own members immedi-
ately to set up such manufactures:
hat it be recommended to the assemblies and conventions, councils, or
committees of safety, of every colony, forthwith to erect powder-mills in their
respective colonies, and appoint committees to build such mills, and procure
. well skilled in the manufacture of powder, at the expense of such
COIOIAICS :
That a committee of this Congress, to consist of one member from each
colony, be º to consider of further ways and means of promoting and
*Souraging the manufactures of salt-petre, sulphur and gun-powder in these
colonies, and to correspond with the several assemblies and conventions, and
$ºuncils or committees of safety in the several colonies, that Congress may be,
frºm time to time, truly informed of the progress made in these manufactures.
* The members chosen, Mr. Bartlett, Mr. Paine, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Hun-
tington, Mr. L. Morris, Mr. Sergeant, Mr. Humphreys, Mr. Read, Mr. Paca,
Mr. Braxton, Mr. Hewes, Mr. É. Rutledge, and Mr. Bullock.
9rdered, That the above resolutions respecting salt-petre, &c. be published.
. It being represented that capt. Harman has inlisted into his company, and car-
ried with him to Canada, thirteen servants, without the consent of their masters s
*esolved, That a committee of three be appointed to enquire into this mat-
ter, and to report to Congress.
ºbºs chºsen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. willing, and Mr. Wythe.
Resolved, That this Congress will, on Monday next, resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take SA own 4; * *
Washington, &c. 5 e into consideration the letters from general
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Mond ay.
\ VoI. I. 35
}
274 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
MONDAY, February 26, 1776.
A letter from general Lee, dated 22d instant, was read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. J. Adams, and Mr. L. Morris.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of Carpenter
Wharton, for the sum of 6000 dollars, he to be accountable.
A petition from lieutenant Jocelyn Feltham, of the 26th regiment, who was
taken prisoner at Ticonderoga, was presented and read, praying leave to go to
Europe for the recovery of his Nº. *
Resolved, That the prayer of his petition be granted.
A representation from the committee of inspection and observation of the
city and liberties of Philadelphia, relative to vessels loaded for Great-Britain,
Ireland, and the British West-Indies, was presented to Congress, and read :
Whereupon,
Resolved, That no vessel loaded for Great-Britain, Ireland, or the British West-
Indies, be permitted to sail until the further order of Congress; and that it be
recommended to the different committees of inspection and observation, to see
that this resolution be carried into execution. ,
Ordered, That the above resolve be published.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to examine and report the
numbers and circumstances of the permits, and the destination of the vessels,
to which such permits have been granted, for exporting the produce of the
colonies, in consequence of the importation of ammunition and warlike stores;
and that the representation of the committeee of inspection and observation
for the city and liberties of Philadelphia, on this subject, be referred to the
said committee.
The members chosen, Mr. Duane, Mr. Chase, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Livingston,
and Mr.Wythe.
A letter from the convention of New-Jersey, dated February 24th, was read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to the committee to whom the letter
from general Lee, was this morning committed.
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of the dele-
gates of Maryland, for the sum of twenty-two thousand dollars, to be by them
exchanged for gold and silver, and paid back into their treasury.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, February 27, 1776.
Resolved, That Monsieur Regonville be permitted to go to Bristol, and spend
a week with his relations there; and that, after that, he return to Philadelphia.
Resolved, That the sum of 100 dollars be paid to Monsieur Dugan, for his
, services in the cause of the United Colonies in Canada, and that it be recom-
mended to the commanding officer of the forces of the United Colonies in that
province, to advance him to a post in the army, suitable to his merit and ser-
W1CéS. *.
The committee, to whom the letters from Christopher Leffingwell and others,
copcerning the brigantine Nancy, commanded by Thomas Davis, and her cargo,
were referred, brought in their report; which being taken into consideration,
Resolved, That the case of the said brigantine and cargo, pertaineth to the
judicature established in the colony of Cönnecticut for hearing and determin-
ing matters of the same kind. t
*The º taking into consideration the report of the committee appoint-
ed to consider into what departments the middle and southern colonies ought
to be formed,
Resolved, That New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, the lower counties
On Delaware, and Maryland, be put into one department, under the command
of the major-general, and two ºf with proper staff:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 275
rº-I.
That Virginia, North-Carolina, South-Carolina, and Georgia, be put into
one other department, under the command of one major-general, and three
brigadiers-general with proper staff: tº
That Friday next be assigned for the election of the majors-general, briga-
diers-general, and staff-officers in the foregoing departments.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention of New-Jersey, to have
the cargo of the transport Blue-Mountain Valley landed, and secured in some
safe place, till further orders of Congress.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, February 28, 1776.
Resolved, That general Lee be directed not to proceed to Canada, until he
receive further orders from Congress.
The committee, to whom the letters from general Lee and the convention
of New-Jersey, were referred, brought in their report, which was read:
Resolved, That the consideration thereof be postponed till to-morrow.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to repay to the delegates
of North-Carolina the four hundred weight of powder borrowed of that colony.
The committee on prisoners, to whom the letter from the committee of safe-
ty of Pennsylvania was referred, brought in their report, which was taken into
consideration ; and thereupon,
Resolved, That the committee of inspection and observation for the county
of Berks, in Pennsylvania, be authorized and requested to contract, upon rea-
sonable terms, for the subsistence of such of the prisoners now in Reading as
are not supplied by Mr. Franks, together with the women and children belong-
ing to all the prisoners there, and for supplying them with fire-wood, and other
things absolutely necessary for their support:
That the committees of inspection and observation for the counties, districts,
or towns, assigned for the residence of prisoners, be empowered to superintend
their conduct, and, in cases of gross misbehavior, to confine them, and report
to Congress the proceedings had on such occasions.
Ordered, That the foregoing resolve be published.
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, agreeable to the
offer made by them of their service, of which Congress have a proper sense, be
authorized to distribute the officers, who are prisoners in Lancaster, in such
places within the province of Pennsylvania, as to that committee shall seem
most proper, taking their parole, which, if they refuse to give, the said commit-
tee are empowered and directed to confine them ; and that, in executing this
resolve, the said committee have regard to the resolutions heretofore made by
Congress, with respect to prisoners and their residence.
A petition of Anthony Marmajou, master and owner of the brig Little-Polly,
of the island of Martinique, was presented to Congress and read: Whereupon,
'. Resolved, That Monsieur Marmajou be permitted to load the brigantine
Little-Polly, in which he imported a small quantity of powder and arms, with
the produce of these colonies, (horned cattle, sheep, hogs, poultry and lumber
for making casks excepted,) and export the same to Martinique ; and that the
said Anthony Marmajou do take every possible precaution to avoid all British
men of war and cutters on his voyage; and that he use his utmost endeavors to
import into these colonies the powder and arms mentioned in his petition,
“solved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers in favor of Mr. J. Mease,
for the sum of twenty thousand dollars, he to be accountable. -
The committee, to whom the letters from general Schuyler, dated the 10th
and 13th of February, and the papers there mentioned, were referred, brought
in their report, which was taken into consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That a sufficient quantity of steel be sent to general Schuyler, or
the commanding officer at Albany, for the armorers and the blacksmiths who
y
276 Journals of CONGRESS, 1776.
are appointed to go and work for the Indians, and that the delegates of New-
Jersey be desired to provide and forward the same :
That an account of the money paid to the Pennsylvania troops who have
marched to Canada, be sent to general Schuyler:
That the deputy muster-master general, Gunning Bedford, esq. be directed
to repair to his post forthwith in the northern army in Canada, and that he
muster the troops once in every month, and make returns to Congress and the
commanding officer:
That the orders given by general Schuyler, in his letter of the 12th instant,
to lieutenant-colonel Warner, be approved. !
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, February 29, 1776,
The colony of New-Hampshire having appointed delegates for the present
year, William Whipple, esq. one of the said delegates, attended and produced
the credentials of their appointment, which were read as follows:
“Colony of NEw-HAMPSHIRE-IN THE Hous E of REPRESENTATIVEs, Janu-
ary 23, 1776.
“ Voted, That Josiah Bartlett, John Langdon, and William Whipple, esqs.
be, and hereby are appointed delegates to represent this colony in the Conti-
mental Congress at Philadelphia for the term of one year from this time, any one
of them, in the absence of the others, to have full power to represent this colo-
my, and that not more than two of them attend at one time. Sent up for con-
CUlrrellC6. P. W IIITE, Speaker.
IN Council, eodem die.
Read and concurred. E. THOMPSON, Secretary.
A true copy from the journal of council.
Attest, E. THOMPSON, Secretary.”
A letter of the 14th from general Washington, enclosing a letter from lord
Drummond to general Robinson and sundry other papers, was read.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the letter from general Wash-
ington, of the 9th instant, and the trade of the colonies after the 1st of March,
and, after some time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported
that the committee not having come to a conclusion, desired him to move for
leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into further consideration the letter from general Wash-
ington, and the trade of the colonies.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JMarch 1, 1776.
A letter from the committee of safety of New-Hampshire, with a petition
from the said colony, and sundry other papers, were read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Braxton, and Dr. Franklin.
A petition from the inhabitants of Falmouth being presented, was read.
Resolòed, That it be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Read and Mr. Paca.
A letter from J. Mease, commissary, with sundry queries, to which he re-
quests the answers of Congress, that he may know how to conduct the business
entrusted to him, was laid before Congress and read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Rutledge, Mr. Paine, and Mr. Hewes.
A memorial of the merchants, traders and others, of the city of Philadelphia,
was presented and read:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 277
*-
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of the whole.
The general assembly of Massachusetts-Bay, having transmitted to Con-
gress a state of the accounts of their colony against the continent,
Resolved, That the same be referred for liquidation to the committee of
claims.
Resolved, That an addition of 34 dollars a month be added to the pay of
Joseph Reed, esq. secretary to general Washington, on account of the extra-
ordinary sevices at present attending that office, by reason of the general’s
direction of the naval department.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into consideration the letter of general Washington, of
the 14th, with the papers enclosed.
Iłesolved, That the secret committee be directed to treat with the owners
of some medicines lately imported, and to purchase the same on the most rea-
sonable terms for the use of the continent.
Resolved, That major-general Lee be appointed to take the command of the
continental forces in the southern department.
The Congress proceeded to the election of six brigadier-generals, and the
ballots being delivered in and examined, the following gentlemen were chosen:
John Armstrong, esq.
William Thompson, esq. The right hon. William, earl of Sterling.
Andrew Lewis, esq. Robert Howe, esq.
Resolved, That brigadier-general Armstrong be directed to repair to South-
Carolina, brigadiers Lewis and Howe to Virginia, and brigadier Moore to
North-Carolina, and to take the command of the forces in those respective colo-
nies, until they receive further orders from Congress or a superior officer.
Resolved, That brigadier-general Thompson be directed to repair to New-
York.
The orders of the day being postponed,
Adjourned to ten ... on Monday.
MONDAY, JMarch 4, 1776.
Resolved, That Mr. Alsop be appointed a member of the committee of
claims, in the room of Mr. Lewis, who is absent, and Mr. Whipple in the
room of Mr. Bartlett, who desires to be excused from that service.
Resolved, That in case of the absence of any standing member of the com-
mittee of claims, the delegates of the colony to which he belongs, be empow-
ered to nominate one of their members to act in the stead of the absent mem-
ber, till his return.
Sundry letters and papers were received and read, viz.
A letter from the convention of New-York, of the 28th February, enclosin
a recommendation of gentlemen for field-officers of the four battalions j
to be raised in that colony: a
Resolved, That the same be referred for consideration till to-morrow.
t º memorial from sundry merchants of Montreal, respecting the Indian
I'801é 3 -
A resolution of the committee of inspection for the county of Accomac :
Two letters from brigadier-general Wooster of the 11th and 13th February,
with seven papers enclosed :
Twº from brigadier-general Arnold, one of the 1st, and the other of the
12th of February : i
, Four from general Schuyler, dated the 15th, 20th, 21st, and 23d of the
same month :
9ne from general Lee of the 29th :
One from the convention of New-Hampshire, of the 8th : r
And one from the committee of safety ºf Pennsylvania.
—-
James Moore, esq.
278 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That the memorial from the merchants of Montreal be referred to
a committee of five :
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr.
L. Morris, and Mr. Tilghman.
That the resolution from the committee of Accomac, be referred to the com-
mittee of the whole Congress.
That the letters from major-generals Lee and Schuyler, and from brigadier-
generals Wooster and Arnold, be referred to the committee appointed to pre-
pare instructions for the commissioners going to Canada.
That the other letters be referred for consideration till to-morrow.
The committee appointed to examine and report the number and circum-
stances of the permits granted for exporting produce, &c. brought in their re-
port, which was taken into consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the restraint be taken off, which, by a resolve of the 26th of
last month, was laid upon vessels loading or loaded with produce for Great-
Britain, Ireland, or the British West-Indies, in consequence of permissions
ranted for arms and ammunition, imported into these colonies.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed, with all possible expedition,
to send, under a guard, ten tons of powder to Cambridge, for the use of the
army under the command of general Washington.
The committee, to whom the memorial from sundry inhabitants of Northum-
berland, and the petition from the inhabitants near Pittsburg, were referred,
brought in their report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table for the perusal of the members.
Resolved, That colonel Beletre, major Longeuil, and captain Lotbiniere,
three of the Canadian prisoners who are at Bristol, in Pennsylvania, be per-
mitted to come to Philadelphia, to confer with the committee on prisoners.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, JMarch 5, 1776.
Two letters from general Schuyler, dated the 26th and 27th of February,
with four papers enclosed, among which was a letter from James Deane to
general Schuyler, of the 24th of the same month, were received and read:
Resolved, That the letter from James Deane be referred to a committee of
three.
The members chosen, Mr. Rutledge, Mr. Wythe, and Mr. W. Livingston.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the
memorial from the inhabitants of Northumberland, &c. Whereupon,
Resolved, As the said memorial relates merely to disputes between the me-
morialists and other inhabitants of said county, and to complaints against
justices of the peace of the said county, and as the common courts of judica-
ture, and especially the legislature of the colony of Pennsylvania, are altoge-
ther competent for remedying the grievances complained of, that the said
memorial with the papers therewith delivered, be transmitted to the assembly
of said colony. e g *
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take
into consideration the letter from general Washington of the 14th of February,
and the papers enclosed, and after some time the president resumed the chair,
and Mr. Harrison reported, that the committee have had under consideration
the letter and papers to them referred, but have come to no resolution thereon.
Resolved, That the letter from general Washington, so far as it has not been
considered by the committee of the whole, be referred to the committee to
whom his other letters of the 24th and 30th of January were referred.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 279
Twº-wºr-
WEDNESDAY, JMarch 6, 1776.
A letter from general Washington, of the 26th of February, was read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee to whom his other letters are
referred.
A letter from J. Palmer, enclosing a report of a committee of the general
assembly of Massachusetts-Bay, respecting lead, was read:
Resolved, That the committee appointed on the 31st of July last, to enquire
in all the colonies after virgin lead, leaden-ore, and the best method of collect-
ing, smelting and refining it, and also the cheapest arid easiest methods of
making salt in these colonies, be discharged, and that the business of the said
committee be referred to the committee appointed on the 23d of February last,
to consider of farther ways and means of promoting and encouraging the ma-
nufacture of salt-petre, &c.
Resolved, That the letter from J. Palmer, with the enclosed report, be referred
to the last mentioned committee.
A letter from general Washington, dated 18th and 21st of February last,
enclosing the proceedings of a council of war, was read:
Resolved, That brigadier-general Thomas be appointed to command the
forces in Canada, and that general Washington be directed to order him im-
mediately to repair to that province.
Resolved, That brigadier-general Thomas be promoted to the rank of a major-
general, and that a commission be sent to him accordingly.
Ordered, That the president acquaint general Washington by express, of
this arrangement.
Resolved, As sundry members of the marine committee are absent, that their
places be supplied by Mr. Huntington, for Connecticut, Mr. Sergeant, for New-
Jersey, Mr. Harrison, for Virginia, and Mr. E. Rutledge, for South-Carolina.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to send five tons of powder
to New-York for the use of the continental troops there, and five tons of powder
to the southern department for the use of the troops in said department.
That the said committee be directed to return to the colony of Maryland
the powder borrowed by Mr. Harrison, and to the colony of New-York, and
to the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, the powder borrowed of them :
That the said committee be directed to deliver to the delegates of the Dela-
ware government, one ton of powder, for which they are to be accountable,
and to the delegates of New-Jersey, one ton of powder, for which that colony
is to be accountable.
, Resolved, That the president inform general Schuyler, that the Congress
judge it necessary he should remain at Albany to make the proper arrangements
respecting the army destined for Canada, and therefore that he establish his
head quarters at Albany until farther orders.
... ºesolved, That Thomas Bullet, esq. be appointed deputy adjutant-general
in the sºuthern department, with the rank of lieutenant-colonel.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to colonel
Wayne the arms in their possession, for the use of his battalion, retaining
$9 many, as will be necessary for the guard that is to attend the powder to
Cambridge. -
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, March 7, 1776. {
A letter from f. Washington of the 29th of February, and a letter
º general Schuyler, of the 23d of the same month, were received and
Resolved, That an order for one hundred thousand dollars be drawn on the
ºf in favour of the delegates of Connecticut, in part of the money
advanced by said colony, on account of the continent; and that the said colo-
280 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776)
my be desired to send forward their accounts, with proper vouchers, in order
for liquidation and payment.
The Congress being informed, that Isaac Melchior, on the evening of Satur-
day last, treated the president of this Congress with great rudeness, and made
use of several disrespectful and contemptuous expressions towards him and
this Congress,
Ordered, That the said Isaac Melchior attend the Congress to-morrow mor-
ning at eleven o’clock, to answer for his conduct.
Resolved, That Edward Hand, esq.be promoted to be colonel of the batta-
lion of riflemen in the army at Cambridge, and James Chambers, esq. to be
lieutenant-colonel of the same. !
That William Winds, esq. be promoted to be colonel of the first New-Jersey
battalion, and that Matthias Ogden, esq. be appointed lieutenant-colonel of the
Şālī16.
Resolved, That the committee on qualifications be directed to supply the first
and third New-Jersey battalions with proper medicine-chests and instruments.
A letter from lord Sterling, with affidavits, relative to the capture of the
Amboy packet-boat, was laid before Congress and read :
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee to whom the letters from gen-
eral Washington were referred. & 3.
The committee to whom the letter from the committee of safety of New-
Hampshire was referred, brought in their report, which was read.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Hall and Sellers, for printing the continental bills of credit, the sum of
1735.4 dollars : § *
To Frederick Becking, for 102 reams of paper for the continental bills of
credit, the sum of 707.2 dollars :
To the estate of David Hall, deceased, for stationary for the service of
Congress, the sum of 50.6 dollars:
To Robert Erwin, for twenty cords of wood, the sum of eighty dollars:
To Wallore Meng, for canteen straps, the sum of 84.3 dollars:
To Jared Tracey, for carrying money from Philadelphia to Cambridge, the
sum of 36 dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to Josiah Bartlett, esq.
To sundries, on certificates for provisions furnished several rifle companies,
the sum of 35.3 dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to John Alsop, esq.
To Thomas Apty, for boarding several prisoners taken from on board the
Rebecca and Ann, the sum of 54.7 dollars.
To Robert Erwin, for wagonage, the sum of 637.7 dollars.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for electing the field officers for the four
battalions ordered to be raised in the colony of New-York, for the defence of
the said colony.
The order of the day being renewed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JMarch 8, 1776. *
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress proceeded to the election
of field-officers of the four battalions, ordered to be raised in the colony of
New-York, for the defence of the said colony, and the ballots being taken, the
following gentlemen were chosen : , .
Alexander M'Dougal, esq. colonel, Herman Zedwitz, esq. lieutenant-colonel,
Joseph Benedict, esq. major of the first battalion.
James Clinton, esq. colonel, Henry B. Livingston, esq. lieutenant-colonel,
Peter P. Schuyler, esq. major of the second battalion.
b * iesenfels, lieutenant colonel, John Fisher, esq. major of the third
attall O.I.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 281
—a-
Cornelius D. Wyncoop, esq. colonel, Philip Courtlandt, esq. lieutenant colo-
nel, John Nicholson, esq. major of the fourth battalion.
The Congress being informed that Mr. Melchior was attending agreeable to
the orders of yesterday:
Ordered, That he be called in.
Mr. Melchior appearing, the particulars of the charge were repeated to him,
and on his assuring the house of his not remembering his having behaved with
the disrespect mentioned, owing to the particular circumstances he happened to
be under, and asking pardon of the Congress and president for his indecent
behaviour,
Ordered, That in consideration of Mr. Melchior’s former services, and his
present concessions, he be dismissed from farther attendance.
The committee, to whom the letters from major-general Schuyler, brigadier-
general Wooster, and brigadier-general Arnold were referred, brought in their
report, which was taken into consideration ; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the commissioners appointed to go to Canada, be desired to
enquire into the cause of the imprisonment of the officers of militia, in that
country and others, and take such measures in concert with the commanding
officer of the continental forces there, for their enlargement or confinement,
: i. consistent with the principles of justice, and the safety of the United
Oł0Ille S.
That the provisions made by general Lee and general Schuyler to supply the
army in Canada with pork, the direction given by general Lee to have wheat
ground into flour for their use, and his contract with the company of carpenters,
be approved; and that Mr Peter Zabriskie, of Hackinsack, be employed to
transport the pork, to be procured in New-Jersey, to Hudson’s river, according
to general Schuyler’s desire.
That when the articles specified, in the rations allowed to the prisoners of
War, cannot be procured, the persons who supply them with other provisions,
be entitled to eight pence, New-York currency, or one-twelfth of a dollar per
day for every prisoner:
That Indians be not employed as soldiers in the armies of the United
Colonies, before the tribes to which they belong shall, in a national council,
held in the customary manner, have consented thereunto, nor then, without
express approbation of Congress.
hat general Schuyler be directed to provide such a number of batteaus for
the service in Canada, as shall be sufficient for it.
That general Schuyler be desired to purchase the cloth, which Mr. Henry,
of Albany, hath for tents. *
That the committee of inspection and observation for the city and liberties of
Philadelphia, be desired to collect all the gold and silver coin they can, to be
Ҽ for continental bills of credit, for the service of Canada.
*esolved, That a committee of three be appointed to enquire and report the
best ways and means of supplying the army in Canada with provisions and
necessaries:
I'he members chosen, Mr. Gerry, Mr. Wolcott, and Mr. L. Morris.
Resolved, That an order for 10,000 dollars, be drawn on the treasurers, in
ºr ºf the committee appointed to contract for the making of muskets, the
said committee to be accountable.
*** frºm colonel Hazen, of the 18th of February last, enclosing an ac-
count and *ºnate of the losses he has sustained, was received and read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to Mr. Wythe, Mr. Sherman, Mr.
Ward, and Mr. S. Adams, who are directed to examine the said account, and
report upon the several articles,
A letter from §overnor, Trumbull, of the 2d, and a letter from general Lee,
of the 5th, being received, were read.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
Wor... [. 36
º
282 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
SATURDAY, JMarch 9, 1776.
Resolved, That a letter be written to general Washington, desiring him to
send captain Conner, of the rifle battalion, to Philadelphia, the Congress having
occasion to employ him in the southern department. e tº
The committee appointed to prepare instructions for the commissioners go-
ing to Canada, brought in a draught which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table for the perusal of the members,
Two petitions, one from Stephen Decatur, master of the schooner L’Espe-
renge, and one from John Baptisto Hugonence, master of the Tartar the
Marc Anthony, were presented to Congress and read, praying leave to export
certain species of produce, on conditions specified in their petitions.
Resolved, That the prayer of said petitions be granted. g
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to take into consideration
the state of the colonies in the southern department:
The members chosen, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Jay, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. Sergeant,
and Mr. Sherman. *
Resolved, That the following gentlemen be appointed and authorized to sign
and number the bills of credit of four millions of dollars, now emitting, viz:
Samuel Morris, John Kaighn, Nicholas Garrison, Joseph Watkins, Anthony
Morris, Frederick Kuhl, Matthew Clarkson, John Ord, William Webb, Isaac
Hazlehurst, Thomas Morris, Mordecai Lewis, Cornelius Barnes, Jonathan B.
Smith, Robert Tuckniss, Thomas Coombe, Daniel Clymer, George Campbell,
Joseph Parker, Robert Evans, Adam Hubley, Joel Evans, John Mease, John
Purviance, Robert Hazlehurst, Walter Shee, Joseph Redman, Phineas Bond,
William Masters, John Salter, John Howard, Thomas Leech, Thomas Smith,
Philip Kinsey, Robert Roberts, Isaac Howell, James Milligan, Tench Tilghman,
Joseph Bullock, David Duncan, John Shaw, jun. James Thompson, Benjamin
Brannan, Samuel Sellers, Isaac Pearson, John Sellers, Benjamin Jacobs, Israel
Wheelen, Josiah Hewes, Andrew Tybout, George Douglas, Peter Stretch,
Samuel C. Morris, Samuel Hillegas, Nathan Sellers, George Gray, jun. James
Ash, Samuel Massey, John Williams, and William Coates.
Resolved, That before the signers enter upon their office, they shall respec-
tively take an oath or affirmation before any magistrate, which shall be filed
with the committee of the treasury, to the following effect; that they shall well
and truly sign and number all the bills to be delivered to them by the inspec-
tors of the press appointed by the Congress, and the same so signed and num-
bered, shall deliver, or cause to be delivered, to the continental treasurers, or
one of them. A
And, for avoiding the dangers from fire, robbery, or negligence,
Resolved, That the inspectors of the press shall not deliver to any class of
signers more than two parcels of two hundred sheets each, to be in their hands
at any one time.
Resolved, That no oath by way of test be imposed upon, exacted, or required
of any of the inhabitants of these colonies, by any military officers.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver one ton of pow-
der to the delegates of Maryland, for the public service in that colony.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o'clock on Monday next.
MONDAY, JMarch 11, 1776.
A letter from lord Sterling, of the 8th, enclosing three papers; and
A letter of the convention of New-York, of the 7th, enclosing an applica-
tion from Patrick Sinclair, a prisoner, for leave to return to Europe, were laid
before Congress and read.
The Congress, taking into consideration the letter from the convention of
New-York, and the application of P. Sinclair,
* JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 283
&
Resolved, That Patrick Sinclair be allowed to return to Europe.
Iłesolved, That an order for 2,500 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in favor
of Mr. Alsop, Mr. Lewis, and Mr. Sherman, to enable them to pay for the shoes
purchased by them for the northern army.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to confer with gen. Lee,
respecting the ways and means of defending New-York.
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Whippie, and Mr. Rutledge.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Benjamin Town, for 789 canteens, the sum of 341.9 dollars.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Resolved, That the committee on qualifications be directed to provide six
medicine-chests for the six Virginia battalions.
The Congress took into consideration the instructions to the commissioners
going to Canada, and having spent some time thereon,
Resolved, That the further consideration thereof be postponed till to-morrow.
The matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, JMarch 12, 1776.
Resolved, That an order for 20,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in
favor of James Mease, commissary, he to be accountable.
A petition from Edmund Custis, and a letter from the committees of Acco-
mac and Northampton, were presented to Congress and read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to the committee of the whole Congress.
à letter from sundry inhabitants of Westmoreland, of the 6th instant, was
l'é8.01 :
Ordered, To lie on the table.
A petition from Dr. Hall Jackson, was presented to Congress and read.
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the instructions to the com-
missioners going to Canada, and after some time spent thereon,
Resolved, That the farther consideration thereof be postponed till to-morrow.
The committee to whom the letter from colonel Moses Hazen, and the report
of persons appointed to state the account of losses and damages sustained by
. in Canada, were referred, brought in their report, which was read as fol.
OWS :
It appears to your committee that the loss and damage sustained by colonel
Hazen in Canada, have not been estimated with sufficient accuracy; that
some of the articles enumerated in the inventory are presumed to be over-rat-
ed, the quantities of several other sreducible to exactness in number, weight,
or measure, are not ascertained, and the reasons for the knowledge or belief of
any of them by the witnesses are not explicit enough in their examinations;
that, although the grain, grass and hay mentioned in the account are admitted
by colonel Hazen, in his letter, to have been partly destroyed by the ministerial
troops, the whole value is extended; that the estimate of crops are so general, it
cannot be discovered by what rule they were formed, or to what standard ad-
justed ; that the damage done to the dwelling-house, stone-house, out-houses,
barn, and farms, are not particularized or specified; that a considerable part of
what a reimbursement is claimed for, is household furniture, wearing apparel,
tools, utensils, cables, and anchors, suggested to have been plundered by the
trººps of the United Colonies, and Canadians who joined them ; and your com-
mittee believe that no reparation of the like kind hath yet been made by Con-
gress; and that the profit which might have been made of the mills and houses,
if the owner had not been deprived of the use of them, being merely contingent
and conjectural, are such as have not usually been made good in similar cases:
Whereupon,
*-*
284 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That the commissioners who are going to Canada be desired to
appoint proper persons to examine, state and settle an account of the loss and
damage colonel Hazen hath sustained in his property and possessions in Ca-
nada, by the forces of the United Colonies, and report the same, with any spe-
cial matters they may think fit, to Congress ; annexing to their report the es-
timates, examinations of the witnesses, and other papers relative thereto :
Resolved, That if any of the gentlemen appointed field officers in the four
battalions raising in New-York, for the defence of that colony, are provided for
in Canada, they be directed to continue there, exercising the offices to which
they are appointed, and that others be elected in their room, in the four bat-
talions aforesaid; and that such of them as are not provided for in Canada, be
directed immediately to repair to their respective battalions.
The matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, JMarch 13, 1776.
A letter from the committee of Essex, in New-Jersey, of the 7th, and a let-
ter ſºn captain J. Macpherson, of the 12th, were laid before Congress, and
I’CaCl 3 * ^
Resolved, That an order for 1000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in favor
of Samuel Fairlamb, contractor for suppplying colonel Wayne's battalion
with rations, be to be accountable.
Resolved, That the bills drawn by the treasurers of North-Carolina, for the
use of the continental troops in that colony, be paid.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to supply the colony of
Maryland with 500 lb. of powder, for the use of the inhabitants of Coecil
County. {
ºted That a committee of seven be appointed to enquire and report
the best ways and means of raising the necessary supplies to defray the ex-
º of the war for the present year, over and above the emission of bills of
credit.
The members chosen, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Duane, Mr. Hewes, Mr. Gerry,
Mr. R. Morris, Mr. Ward, and Mr. Wythe.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To sundries; for expenses incurred at the oration in memory of general
Montgomery, the sum of 94.3 dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to
Dr. Franklin.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
The committee to whom the memorial from the Indian traders at Montreal
was referred, brought in their report. t
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take
into consideration the memorial from the merchants, traders, and others, in-
habitants of Philadelphia, the memorial of Edmund Custis, the letters from
the committees of Accomac and Northampton, the letters from general wash-
ington, and the state of the trade of the United Colonies, and after some time,
the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Ward reported, that the committee
have had under consideration the matters referred to them, but not having
come tº any resolution, desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a commit-
tee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the matters heretofore
referred to them.
Mr. W. Livingston moved for leave to bring in a resolution for appointing
a fast, which was granted.
Resolved. That the marine committee be empowered to purchase the armed
vessel now in the river Delaware, on the most reasonable terms, for the ser-
vices of the continent, and that her destination be left to the said committee.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 285
Resolved, That the expenses of the horses of aids-de-camp, when travel-
ling in the public service, be charged to the account of the United Colonies.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, JMarch 14, 1776.
The committee appointed to confer with general Lee respecting the defence
of New-York, brought in their report, which was read: Whereupon,
Resolved, That eight thousand men be ordered for the defence of the colony
of New-York.
Resolved, That orders issue to colonel Irvine, colonel Shee, and colonel
Magaw, of the Pennsylvania troops, and to colonel Dayton of the New-Jer-
sey troops, to march º: with their respective battalions, to New-
York, and to put themselves under the direction of the commanding officer
there.
A letter from general Prescot of the 14th, was laid before Congress, and
read:
Resolved, That the committee on prisoners be directed to confer with gen.
Prescot on the subj ect of his letter, and report to Congress.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the several assemblies, conventions,
and committees or councils of safety of the United Colonies, immediately to
cause all persons to be disarmed within their respective colonies, who are no-
toriously disaffected to the cause of America, or who have not associated, and
shall º to associate, to defend, by arms, these United Colonies, against the
hostile attempts of the British fleets and armies; and to apply the arms taken
from such persons in each respective colony, in the first place to the arming
the continental troops raised in said colony ; in the next, to the arming such
troops as are raised by the colony for its own defence, and the residue to be
applied to the arming the associators; that the arms when taken be appraised
by indifferent Fº and such as are applied to the arming the continental
troops, be paid for by the Congress, and the residue by the respective assem-
blies, conventions, or councils, or committees of safety :
Ordered, That a copy of the foregoing resolution be transmitted by the de-
legates of each colony, to their respective assemblies, conventions, or councils,
or committees of safety.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To William Hencher, for wagon-hire, in conveying captain Stevenson’s
baggage, &c. to Cambridge, the sum of 58.3 dollars, and that the same ought to
be paid to Moses Hunter.
o Rachel Stille, for boarding several officers, prisoners, to the 8th of March
instant, the sum of 224.7 dollars,
To Joseph Fineur, for five hundred and eleven tin cartridge boxes, the sum
of 221.4 dollars.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
The matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JMarch 15, 1776.
Šundry letters being received, were laid before Congress and read, viz.
One from general Washington of the 7th, with two papers enclosed, with a
number of intercepted letters; two from lord Sterling, dated the 12th and
13th ; 9me from lieutenant-colonel Allen of the 13th ; one from the conven-
tion of New-Yºrk; and one from general Schuyler of the 6th. !
te Resolved, That the expenses of the horses . general officers, when travel-
ling in the service of the continent, be defrayed by the United Colonies.
Ordered, That Mr. R. H. Lee, and Mr. Franklin, call on general Lee, and
direct him immediately to repair to the southern department, and take the
command of the forces dº." p ?
286 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Y
Resolved, That four muskets and bayonets be lent to the delegates of Vir-
ginia, for the use of the guards that accompany the powder sent to that
colony.
#. Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
consideration the state of New-York, and, after some time, the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the committee F. come to
certain resolutions, which they directed him to lay, before Congress; which
being done,
Resolved, That captain Nelson, with his rifle company, be directed immedi-
ately to repair to New-York. -
Resolved, That the governor of Connecticut, the conventions or councils, or
committees of safety of New-York and New-Jersey, be requested to hold their
militia in readiness to march in such numbers, and at such times, for the defence
of New-York, as the continental commander at New-York, shall desire, and
that the pay of the militias called to the defence of New-York, be the same as
that of the continental troops raised and employed in the middle department,
to commence from the time they begin their march.
Resolved, That lord Sterling be directed to order the troops destined for
Canada to proceed on their march, agreeable to their former orders.
•The matters to this day referred, being-postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, JMarch 16, 1776.
A letter from lord Sterling of the 14th, enclosing a copy of general orders
for the defence of New-York, was laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That a letter be written to lord Sterling, directing him immedi-
ately to send forward the powder destined for Cambridge, unless he has re-
ceived express advice from general Washington, that the enemy’s fleet and
army have sailed out of the harbour of Boston.
Resolved, That the account of Mr. Price, of Canada, be referred to the com-
mittee of claims.
A petition from Coquataginta or captain White-Eyes, was presented to
Congress and read : *
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. L. Morris, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. R. H. Lee.
Resolved, That captain Duncan Campbell, a prisoner at Lancaster, be per-
mitted to come to Philadelphia to meet his wife and children, and there reside
ill further orders. & S-
Mr. W. Livingston, pursuant to leave granted, brought in a resolution for
*ppointing a fast, which being taken into consideration, was agreed to as
follows:
In times of impending calamity and distress; when the liberties of Ameri-
ca are imminently endangered by the secret machinations and open assaults of
an insidious and vindictive administration, it becomes the indispensable duty
of these hitherto free and happy colonies, with true penitence of heart, and the
most reverent devotion, publicly to acknowledge the over-ruling providence
of God; to confess and * our offences against him; and to supplicate his
interposition for averting the threatened danger, and prospering our strenuous
efforts in the cause of freedom, virtue, and posterity. º
The Congress, therefore, considering the war-like preparations of the Britisl
ministry to subvert our invaluable rights and privileges, and to reduce us by
fire and sword, by the savages of the wilderness, and our own domestics, to
the most abject and ignominious bondage : Desirous, at the same time, to have
people of all ranks and degrees duly impressed with a solemn sense of God’s
superintending providence, and of their duty, devoutly to rely, in all their
lawful enterprizes, on his aid and direction, do earnestly recommend, that
Friday, the 17th day of May next, be observed by the said colonies as a day of
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 287
humiliation, fasting, and prayer; that we may, with united hearts, confess and
bewail our manifold sins and trangressions, and, by a sincere repentance and
amendment of life, appease his righteous displeasure, and, through the merits
and mediation of Jesus Christ, obtain his pardon and forgiveness; humbly im-
ploring his assistance to frustrate the cruel purposes of our unnatural enemies;
and by inclining their hearts to justice and benevolence, prevent the further
effusion of kindred blood. But if, continuing deaf to the voice of reason and
humanity, and inflexibly bent on desolation and war, they constrain us to re-
pel their hostile invasions by open resistance, that it may please, the Lord of
Hosts, the God of Armies, to animate our officers and soldiers with invincible
fortitude, to guard and protect them in the day of battle, and to crown the
continental arms, by sea and land, with victory and success: Earnestly be-
seeching him to bless our civil rulers, and the representatives of the people, in
their several assemblies and conventions; to preserve and strengthen their
union, to inspire them with an ardent, disinterested love of their country; to
give wisdom and stability to their councils; and direct them to the most effica-
cious measures for establishing the rights of America on the most honorable
and permanent basis—that he would be graciously pleased to bless all his peo-
ple in these colonies with health and plenty, and grant that a spirit of incor-
ruptible patriotism, and of pure undefiled religion, may universally prevail; and
this continent be speedily restored to the blessings of peace and liberty, and
enabled to transmit them inviolate to the latest posterity. And it is recom-
mended to Christians of all denominations, to assemble for public worship,
and abstain from servile labour on the said day.
Resolved, That another brigadier-general be appointed in the continental
army. *.
The ballots being taken and examined,
The baron de Woedtke was elected.
Resolved, That Frederick William, baron de Woedtke, appointed brigadier
general in the army of the United Colonies, be ordered immediately to repair to
New-York, there to remain until the commissioners appointed to go into Cana-
da shall reach that colony; and that he be directed to join and accompany them
into Canada, and there serve under the command of the continental troops in
that province.
Resolved, That Carpenter Wharton continue, agreeable to his contract, to
supply with rations the Pennsylvania battalions serving in New-York.
A petition from Joseph Blewer and Daniel Robinson was presented to Con-
gress, and read :
Itesolved, That it be referred to a committee of the whole Congress.
The Congress then resolved itself into a oommittee of the whole, to take in-
to their further consideration the memorial from the merchants, traders, and
others, inhabitants of Philadelphia, the memorial from Edmund Custis, the let-
ters from the committees of Accomac and Northampton, and the petition from
Joseph Blewer and Daniel Robinson, &c. and after somé time the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the committee have had un-
der consideration the matters to them referred, but not having come to a con-
clusion; desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, on Monday next, resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the matters, re-
ferred to them. \
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, JMarch 18, 1776. .
Resolved, That the treasurers be directed to lay on the table an account of
the siver and gold-coin in the treasury.
Resolved, That Monsieur Arundel be directed to repair to the southern de-
partment, and put himself under the command of general Lee; and that ge-
288 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
*—
neral Lee, if he find him capable, be directed to employ him in the artillery ser-
VICE,
Resolved, That an order for 20,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in fa-
vor of Mr. James Mease, to be applied to the procuring necessaries, and to the
payment of the subsistence of the Pennsylvania battalions; and that the colo-
nies be directed to account with Mr. Mease for the several sums advanced to
them.
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take in-
to their farther consideration the memorial from the merchants, traders, and
others, inhabitants of Philadelphia, the memorial of Edmund Custis, the letters
from the committees of Accomac and Northampton, and the petition of Joseph
Blewer and Daniel Robinson, and, after some time, the president resumed the
chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the committee have had under considera-
tion the matters to them referred, and have come to sundry resolutions, but
that not having concluded, they desired him to move for leave to sit again.
Mr. Henry, not having accepted the commission of colonel, the Congress pro-
ceeded to the election of a colonel for the first Virginia battalion, and the bal-
lots being taken,
William Christian, esq. formerly lieutenant-colonel in said battalion, was
elected colonel : and, -
Francis Eppes, esq. formerly major, was elected lieutenant-colonel; and
John Green, esq. was elected major.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolveitself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into their further consideration the matters referred
to them. /
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, JMarch 19, 1776.
Resolved, That Monsieur Dohicky Arundel be appointed a captain of artille-
ry in the continental service.
That general Lee be directed to set on foot the raising a company of artillery,
and that it be recommended to the convention or committee of safety of Virgi-
nia, to appoint the other officers of the said company of artillery.
A letter of the 15th, from col. Dayton, was laid before Congress, and read:
Itesolved, That it be referred to the committee for procuring muskets.
. . A letter of the 17th, from the convention of New-Jersey, was laid before
Congress, and read: Whereupon,
Resolved, That captain Woolverton, with his company, be taken into the
service of the United Colonies; and that he be directed to repair, with his com-
pany, as soon as properly armed and accoutred, to New-York, and put himself
under the commanding officer there; and that the J. of captain Woolverton’s
company commence from the time they are provided with arms and accoutre-
ments.
A letter from colonel Beletre, a Canadian prisoner, and sundry letters from
Cameron and Smith, were read :
Resolved, That they be referred to the committee on prisoners.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to supply captain Barry,
of the brig Lexington, with one ton of powder.
Ordered, That the committee to whom was referred the state and situation
of the prisoners at Trenton, report thereon as soon as-possible.
Resolved, That the sum of 250,000 dollars be sent to the pay-master general,
for the use of the army under the immediate command of general Washington:
That the sum of 50,000 dollars be sent to general Schuyler, for the use of
the army under his command.
The committee appointed to prepare instructions, &c. to the commissioners
going to Canada, brought in a draught of farther instructions, and of a commis-
sion, which was read.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 289
* - - - i.e. —-
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take
into their farther consideration the memorial from the merchants, traders, and
others, inhabitants of Philadelphia, the memorial from Edmund Custis, the
letters from the committees of Accomac and Northampton, and the petition of
Joseph Blewer and Daniel Robinson, and, after some time, the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the committee have had
under consideration the matters to them referred, and have come to sundry
resolutions, which they directed him to lay before Congress:
The report of the committee being read,
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to draw a declaration
pursuant to said report, and lay the same before Congress:
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Jay, and Mr. Wilson.
Resolved, That it be an instruction to said committee, to receive and insert a
clause or clauses, that “all seamen and mariners on board of merchant-ships
and vessels, taken and condemned as prizes, shall be entitled to their pay, ac-
cording to the terms of their contracts, until the time of condemnation.”
The committee to whom the letter and queries of Mr. Mease, were referred,
brought in their report, which was read: t
Ordered, To lie on the table. \;
Resolved, That Mr. Whipple be appointed a member of the marine commit-
tee, and of the committee for receiving the applications and examining the
qualifications of gentlemen applying for offices in the continental service.
The committee to whom the letters from general Washington, dated the 14th
and 26th of February last, and the letter from lord Sterling, of the 25th of
same month, were referred, brought in their º which was read; and the
same being taken into consideration, Y :
słesolved, That the first part thereof be re-committed.
Resolved, That the value of the passage boat, York, be made good to Michael
Kearney, jun. the owner thereof; it appearing that she was impressed into the
continental service, and employed in taking the ship Blue-Mountain Valley,
and for that reason, afterwards seized and detained by order of captain Par-
ker, commander of the British ship of war Phoenix; and that lord Sterling be
desired to appoint proper persons to value said boat, and report such valuation
to Congress. . . -
Resolved, That a member be elected for the secret committee, in the room
of Mr. Bartlett, who is absent.
The ballots being taken, ****
Mr. R. H. Lee was elected. “s
.Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, JMarch 20, 1776. .
A letter form lord Sterling, of the 16th, was laid before Congress, and read.
Resolved, That three members be elected for the committee appointed to
consider the propriety of a war-office, in the room of three, who are necessa-
, rily absent: º
The members chosen, Mr. Duane, Mr. R. H. Lee, and Mr. Johnson.
Resolved, 'That the sum of 3000 dollars be advanced to colonel Magaw, for
the purpose of purchasing fire arms for his battalion, he to be accountable.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the instructions and commission
to the deputies or commissioners going to Canada, and the same being debated,
by paragraphs, were agreed to as follows:
INSTRUCTIONS, &c. -
•º.
---
• \
GENTLEMEN,
You are, with all convenient despatch, to repair to Canada, and make known
to the people of that country, the wishes and intentions of the Congress with
respect to them,
Wor, f. 3?'
290 . JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
$
<º. 2-& *— §2. A
_º --
Tº ſº: Eº Kººk 2 : jºy
Represent to them, that the arms of the United Colonies, having been carried
into that province for the purpose of frustrating the designs of the British court
against our common liberties, we expect not only to defeat the hostile machi
nations of governor Carleton against us, but that we shall put it into the power
of our Canadian brethren, to pursue such measures for securing their own
freedom and happiness, as a generous love of liberty and sound policy shall
dictate to them. * \
Inform them, that in our judgment, their interests and ours are inseparably
united; that it is impossible we can be reduced to a servile submission to Great-
Britain without their sharing our fate: And, on the other hand, if we shall
obtain, as we doubt not we shall, a full establishment of our rights, it depends
wholly on their choice, whether they will participate with us in those blessings,
or still remain subject to every act of tyranny, which British ministers shall
please to exercise over them. Urge all such arguments as your prudence shall
suggest, to enforce our opinion concerning the mutual interest of the two
countries, and to convince them of the impossibility of the war being con-
cluded to the disadvantage of these colonies, if we wisely and vigorously co-
operate with each other. § *
To convince them of the uprightness of our intentions towards them, you
are to declare, that it is, our inclination, that the people of Canada may set up
such a form of government, as will be most likely, in their judgment, to produce
their happiness: And you are, in the strongest terms, to assure them, that it is
our earnest desire to adopt them into our union, as a sister colony, and to
secure the same general system of mild and equal laws for them and for our-
selves, with only such local differences as may be agreeable to each colony
respectively. .
Assure the people of Canada, that we have no apprehension that the French
will take any part with Great-Britain; but, that it is their interest, and we
have reason to believe their inclination, to cultivate a friendly intercourse with
these colonies. *
You are from this, and such other reasons as may appear most proper, to urge
the necessity the people are under of immediately taking some decisive
step, to put themselves under the protection of the Uniteſ Colonies. For
expediting such a measure, you are to explain to them our method of collecting
the sense of the people, and conducting our affairs regularly by committees of
observation and inspection in the several districts, and by conventions and com-
mittees of safety in the several colonies. Recommend these modes to them.
Explain to them the nature and principles of government among freemen ;
developing, in contrast to those, the base, cruel, and insidious designs involved
in the late act of parliament, for making a more effectual provision for the
overnment of the province of Quebec. Endeavour to stimulate them by
motives of glory, as well as interest, to assume a part in a contest, by which
they must be deeply affected ; and to aspire to a portion of that power, by which
they are ruled ; and not to remain the mere spoils and prey of conquerors and
lords. *:
You are further to declare, that we hold sacred the rights of conscience, and
may promise to the whole people, solemnly in our name, the free and undisturb-
ed exercise of their religion; and, to the clergy, the full, perfect, and peaceable
possession and enjoyment of all their estates; that the government of every
ihing relating to their religion and clergy, shall be left entirely in the hands
of the good people of that province, and such legislature as they shall constitute;
provided, however, that iº denominations of Christians be equally entitled
to hold offices, and enjoy civil privileges, and the free exercise of their reli-
igion, and be totally exempt from the payment of any tithes or taxes for the
Support of any religion. g
Inform them, that you are vested, by this Congress, with full powers to ef-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 291
\
*—aa-
—r- —-r
fect these purposes; and, therefore, press them to have a complete represen-
, tation of the people assembled in convention, with all possible expedition, to
deliberate concerning the establishment of a form of government, and an union
with the United Colonies. As to the terms of union, insist on the propriety
of their being similar to those on which the other colonies unite. Should the
object to this, report to this Congress the objections, and the terms on w;
alone they will come into our union. , Should they agree to our terms, you are
to promise in the names of the United Colonies, that we will defend and pro-
tect the people of Canada against all enemies, in the same manner as we will
defend and protect any of the United Colonies.
You are to establish a free press, and to give directions for the frequent pub-
lication of such pieces as may be of service to the cause of the United Colonies.
You are to settle all disputes between the Canadians and the continental
troops, and to make such regulations relating thereto, as you shall judge proper.
You are to make a strict and impartial enquiry into the cause of the imprison-
ment of colonel Du Free, lieutenant colonel Nefeu, major St. George Du Pree,
and major Gray, officers of the militia, and of John Frazer, esq. late a judge of
the police of Montreal, and take such orders concerning them as you shall
judge most proper.
In reforming any abuses you may observe in Canada, establishing and en-
forcing regulations for preservation of peace and good order there, and com-
; differences between the troops of the United Colonies and the Cana-
ians, all officers and soldiers are required to yield obedience to you ; and, to
enforce the decisions that you or any two of you may make, you are empowered
to suspend any military officer from the exercise of his commission, till the
pleasure of the Congress shall be known, if you, or any two of you, shall think
it expédient.
You are also empowered to sit and vote as members of councils of war, in
directing fortifications and defences to be made, or to be demolished, by land or
by water ; and to draw, orders on the president for any sums of money, not ex-
ceeding one hundred thousand dollars in the whole, to defray the expense of
the works.
Lastly, you are by all the means you can use, to promote the execution of
the resolutions now made, or hereafter to be made, in Congress. t
On motion, Resolved, That the following additional instructions be given to
the commissioners aforesaid:
You are empowered and directed to promote and encourage the trade of,
Canada with the Indian nations, and to grant passports for the carrying it on
as far as it may consist with the safety of the troops, and the public good.
You are also directed and authorized to assure the inhabitants of Canada,
that their commerce with foreign nations shall, in all respects, be put upon an
equal footing with, and encouraged and protected in the same manner, as the
trade of the United Colonies. *
You are also directed to use every wise and prudent measure to introduce
and give credit and circulation to the continental money in Canada.
In case the former resolution of Congress respecting the English American
troops in Canada, has not been carried into effect, you are directed to use your
best en deavors for forming a battalion of the New-York troops in that country,
and to appoint the field and other officers out of the gentlemen who have con-
tinued there during the campaign, according to their respective ranks and
merit. And, if it should be found impracticable, you are to direct such of
them as are provided for in the four battalions now raising in New-York, to
Repair to their respective corps. To enable you to carry this resolution into ef-
fee; yºu º furnished with blank commissions, signed by the president.
Resolved, That the memorial from the Indian traders, residing at Montreal,
be delivered to the commissioners going to Canada. * $
292 - JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
The draught of the commission being taken into consideration, and debated
by paragraphs, was agreed to as follows:
The delegates of the United Colonies of New-Hampshire, &c. to Benjamin
Franklin, L. L. D. member of the royal academy of sciences at Paris, F.R.S.
&c. &c. &c. one of the delegates of the colony of Pennsylvania; Samuel
Chase, esq. one of the delegates of the colony of Maryland, and Charles Car-
roll, of Carrollton, esq. of the said colony of Maryland, *. Know ye,
that we, reposing special trust and confidence in your zeal, fidelity, abilities,
-and assiduity, do, by these presents, constitute and appoint you, or any two
of you, commissioners for and on behalf of us, and all . people of the United
Colonies, whom we represent, to promote, or to form a union between the
said colonies and the people of Canada, according to the instructions here-
with delivered you, and such as you may hereafter receive ; and to execute
all such matters and things as you are or shall be directed by your said in-
structions; and we do require all officers, soldiers, and others, who may facili-
tate your negotiation, or promote the success thereof, to aid and assist you
therein; and you are from time to time, to transmit and report your proceed-
ings to Congress. This commission to continue in force till revoked by this
or a future Congress.
Dated at Philadelphia, this day of
By order of Congress.
Resolved, That Mr. Franklin, Mr. Adams, and Mr. Chase be appointed to
confer with Mr. Wrixon, to examine into his military abilities, and enquire
whether he is willing to engage in the service of the United-Colonies, and re-
port to Congress.
Colonel St. Clair having informed Congress that Michael Hufnagel, ap-
pointed a first-lieutenant, and James O'Hara, and Abel Morris, appointed
ensigns in his battalion, have declined to accept their commissions, the com-
mittee on qualifications recommended Thomas Butler in the room of M. Huf-
nagel, George M*Culloch in the room of James O'Hara, and George Ross in the
room of Abel Morris.
Resolved, That commissions be granted accordingly. 't
Resolved, That the committee of safety of New-Jersey be desired to re-
move the prisoners from Trenton, to such place or places in that colony, as
may be thought convenient, at a proper distance from the sea and the post,
roads, subject to the regulations formerly made respecting prisoners.
Resolved, That all officers, prisoners, who shall refuse to subscribe the pa-
role ordered by Congress, be committed to prison.
The committee appointed to promote the making of muskets, to whom colo-
nel Dayton’s letter respecting the quality of the arms taken by colonel Heard,
on Long-Island, was referred, brought in their report, which was read: Where-
upon, the Congress came to the following resolution : \
Whereas in the execution of the resolve of Congress of the 14th, respecting
the disarming of disaffected persons, many fire-arms may be taken, which may
not be fit to arm any of the troops meñtioned therein : Therefore,
Resolved, That all the fire-arms so taken, being appraised according to said
resolve, none of them shall be paid for, but those that are fit for the use of such
troops, or that may conveniently be so made, and the remainder shall be safe-
% kept by the said assemblies, conventions, councils or committees of safety,
for the owners, to be delivered to them when the Congress shall direct.
The committee appointed to consider the best ways and means of supply-
ing the army in Canada with provisions and necessaries, brought in their re-
port, which was read: * * t
Resolved, That the same be referred for consideration till to-morrow.
. . A petition of John Secord was presented to Congress and read, and the con-
sideration thereof, at the request of a colony, was deferred till to-morrow.
w”
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 293
*-
-º,
The committee of claims reported, that there is due, , , *
To Abraham Hunt, for provisions, fire-wood, &c. to the prisoners at Tren-
ton, and for horse-hire for the public service, the sum of 607.6 dollars:
To Ephraim Blaine, esq. for necessaries furnished the rifle companies, the
sum of i29.7 dollars; of which sum, 44.3 dollars are to be charged to captain
Hendricks, and 65 dollars to captain Chambers:
To sundries, on certificates for necessaries furnished to one of the rifle com-
panies, the sum of 122.5 dollars, of which sum 101.4 dollars, being for rifles,
&c. furnished to captain Cluggage’s company, to be charged to said company ;
the amount of the certificates to be paid to Bernard Dougherty, esq
To William Bausman, for provisions, &c. furnished the prisoners in Lancas-
ter, the sum of 1528.8 dollars :
To the committee of Frederick, the sum of 52.7 dollars, to be paid to Tho-
mas Johnson, esq : &
To Francis Lee, for 483 meals dieting of general Lee’s guard, the sum of
48.3 dollars: º
To Conrad Ulster, for 185 meals dieting the said men, 19 dollars:
To Mary Bryant, for 288 meals dieting the said men, 28 dollars:
To Ann Todd, for 158 meals dieting the said men, the sum of 15.8 dollars.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, JMarch 21, 1776.
A letter of the 7th from general Schuyler, with a return of the forces be-
fore Quebec, was laid before Congress, and read: &
fººd, That it be referred to Mr. Wythe, Mr. Harrison, and Mr. S.
Adams.
- Resolved, That general Washington be directed to send an account of the
troops in his camp, who are deficient in arms, to the several assemblies or
conventions of the colonies, to which those men belong ; and request them to
send a sufficient number of arms for the men coming from the respective colo-
nies, and that, if arms cannot be procured, such as have not arms be dismissed
the service.
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to em-
º some trusty persons in each county, to purchase as many good muskets as
will be sufficient to arm the battalions raised in said colony; and that they exert
their utmost diligence in procuring the said arms speedily, and on the most rea-
sonable terms ; that an order for 12,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favor of said committee, to pay for the arms, the said committee to be ac-
countable. - º
Resolved, That the sum of 600 dollars be sent to colonel Charles Stuart, and
that he be desired to muster captain Woolverton’s company, and when he finds
them properly armed, accoutred, and ready to march, to furnish them with ne-
Sessaries, and expedite their march to New-York, agreeable to the orders of
Congress; Mr. Stuart to be accountable for the money put into his hands.
. Resolved, That Monsieur le chevalier de St. Aulaire be permitted to raise an
independent company of rangers in Canada, with the pay of a captain, or, in
case he shall not be able to raise such a company, that he be recommended to
the Commanding officer in Canada, to be employed in such service there as may
be thought suitable to his genius and ability.
Resolved. That it be recommended to the several assemblies, conventions,
and councils or committees of safety, and committees of correspondence and
inspection, that they exert their utmost endeavors to promote the culture of
hemp, flax, and cotton, and the growth of wool in these United Colonies.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the said assemblies, conventions, and
Councils or committees of safety, that they take the earliest measures for erect-
ing and establishing, in each and every colony a society for the improvement of
294 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
f
\ —º -A-
ºr- -ºr-
agriculture, arts, manufactures, and commerce, and to maintain a correspon-
dence between such societies, that the rich and numerous natural advantages
of this country, for supporting its inhabitants, may not be neglected :
That it be recommended to the said assemblies, conventions, and councils or
committees of safety, that they forthwith consider of ways and means of intro-
ducing the manufactures of duck and sail cloth, and steel, into such colonies
where they are not now understood, and of encouraging, increasing and im-
proving them where they are. \
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to superintend the print-
ing the journals of Congress; and that, if the present printer cannot execute
the work with sufficient expedition, they be empowered to employ another
printer. f
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Harrison, and Mr. Allen.
The matters to this day referred, being postponed, f
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JMarch 22, 1776. N
|
A letter of the 13th from general Washington, enclosing the proceedings of
a council of war, also a letter from lord Sterling, of the 19th, were laid before
Congress and read.
A petition from Thorowgood Smith, and others, was presented to Congress,
and read, setting forth, that they have procured a vessel, and raised money to
fit her out as a privateer, in º: to cruize and guard the coast of Virginia,
and praying that a commission be granted to William Shippen, to whom they
propose to give the command of said vessel; and farther, that the Congress
will grant them a small quantity of powder, upon their making satisfaction for
the same : - \ *
Resolved, That a commission be granted to William Shippen, as captain of
the above-mentioned vessel, for the purposes aforesaid.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell capt. William Ship-
en 600lb. of powder, for the use of his vessel.
The committee appointed to prepare a declaration pursuant to certain reso-
lutions, brought in a . which was read. *
l Resolved, That the petition of John Secord be referred to a committee of
three.
The members chosen, Mr. Penn, Mr. E. Rutledge, and Mr. Jay.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
On account of expenses in conveying powder, the sum of 8.8 dollars, and
that the same ought to be paid to John Morton, esq.
To Matthias Slough, for provisions furnished the prisoners in Lancaster, the
sum of 226.8 dollars.
To Ephraim Blaine, for sundry articles omitted in the account of expenses
at the treaty with the Indians at Pittsburg, the sum of 90.5 dollars.
To sundries on certificates for necessaries furnished to captain Stevenson’s
company in Virginia, the sum of 58.3 dollars, and that the same ought to be
paid to Timothy Matlack, of which 14.7 dollars, being for a rifle, to be charged
to captain Stevenson. \t
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid. z
Resolved, That the sum of 750 dollars be advanced to the baron de Woedtke,
he to be accountable out of his pay.
Resolved, That the rank of all such officers in the continental army as held
similar commissions in that service, before the term of their late appointment
expired, be settled by the dates of their former, and not their present commis-
S1011S. *
The assembly of the counties on Delaware, having recommended a gentle-
man to be § or of the battalion ordered to be raised in that colony, in the room
of John M'Pherson, jun. esq. who fell before Quebec, and never received his
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 295
commission, the Congress proceeded to the election, and the ballots being tak-
en and examined, {
Thomas M'Donnough was elected. *
Resolved, That an order for 12,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in fa-
vor of the committee of safety of Delaware government, for the use of the bat-
talion raised in that colony, the said committee to be accountable.
The Congress took into consideration the declaration brought in by the com-
Inittee, and after debate, the further consideration thereof, at the request of a
colony, was postponed till to-morrow. *
Ordered, That the secretary publish the substance of the letters received
from the camp at Cambridge.
Resolved, That the marine committee be empowered to dispose of the coal
on board the Blue-Mountain Valley, in such manner as they shall judge most
for the benefit of the United Colonies.
The matters to this day referred, being postponed, f
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, JMarch 23, 1776.
A letter from James Young was laid before Congress and read, requesting
that his son John, who eloped from him last January, and got on board the
Phoenix ship of war, but is now fortunately a prisoner in New-York, may be
Fºl. on his parole, to reside at the estate of his late grandfather, Dr.
I’88II, 6 - • *
Resolved, That Mr. Young's request be granted.
A letter from lord Sterling, of the 18th, enclosing a letter from William De
Hart, and a letter from the captains and subalterns of the first New-J ersey bat-
talion ; also,
A memorial from Thomas Scott, of Hunterdon, desiring that he may be ap-
pointed a captain of a gompany of rangers: and,
. A letter from S. Badlam, were laid before Congress, and read:
Fesolved, That the said letters be referred to the committee on qualifications.
Resolved, Thät an order for 30,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in
favor of Thomas Lowry, commissary, for the use of the New-J ersey battalions
he to be accountable. 2
The committee on qualifications having recommended Peter Scull to be a
brigade-major in the army of the United Colonies in the middle department:
Joseph Davenport to be a captain, in the third Pennsylvania battalion, in the
room of Mr. Scull; & 2
Ryan Edwards to be a captain in said battalion, in the room of Mr. Allice,
who has resigned,; .
E. Tilton to be a first lieutenant in said battalion, in the room of Evan
Wards;
Garret Steddiſord to be an ensign in the said battalion;
ຠhaving also recommended the following persons for colonel Irvine's
battalion, viz.: { *
º: Wilson to be a first-lieutenant, in the room of William M“Cleland
Mesigned ;
*Alexander to be a first lieutenant, in the room of Robert white resigned.
Andrew Irvine, a second lieutenant, in the room of John Alexander:
- Neeper, an ensign in the room of John Murray, who has resigned:
Resolved, That *ommissions be granted to them accordingly.
i t º That the sum of 3200 dollars, in specie, be advanced to Mr. Cole,
i. be by him delivered to the commanding officer in Canada, for the service of
he continent, and that he be desired to proceed thither immediately.
The Committee of claims reported, that there is due,
J. To Dr. Jonathan Potts, for attendan ł d * w
battalions, the sum of 67.6 dollars, • on the second and fourth Pennsylvania
w
296 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
*-
*-*~ :-
To colonel Nathaniel Heard, for expenses in the expedition against the tories
on Long-Island, the sum of 2161.6 dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the declaration, which was
agreed to as follows: *
Whereas the petitions of the United Colonies to the king, for the redress of
great ànd manifold grievances, have not only been rejected, but treated with
scorn and contempt, and the opposition to designs evidently formed to reduce
them to a state of servile subjection, and their necessary defence against hostile
forces actually employed to subdue them, declared rebellion; and whereas an
unjust war hath been commenced against them, which the commanders of the
British fleets and armies have prosecuted, and still continue to prosecute, with
their utmost vigor; and in a cruel manner, wasting, spoiling, and destroying
the country, burning houses and defenceless towns, and exposing the helpless
inhabitants to every misery, from the inclemency of the winter; and not only
urging savages to invade the country, but instigating negroes to murder their
masters; and whereas the parliament of Great-Britain hath lately passed an
act, affirming these colonies to be in open rebellion, forbidding all trade and
commerce with the inhabitants thereof, until they shall accept pardons, and
submit to despotic rule, declaring their property, wherever found upon the
water, liable to seizure and confiscation, and enacting, that what had been done
there by virtue of the royal authority, were just, and lawful acts, and shall be
so deemed ; from all which it is manifest, that the iniquitous scheme, concerted
to deprive them of the liberty they have a right to by the laws of nature and
the English constitution, will be pertinaciously pursued: It being therefore
necessary to provide for their defence and security, and justifiable to make re-
prisals upon their enemies, and otherwise to annoy them, according to the laws
and usages of nations, the Congress, trusting that such of their friends in
Great-Britain (of whom it is confessed there are many entitled to applause
and gratitude for their patriotism and benevolence, and in whose favor a dis-
crimination of property cannot be º as shall suffer by captures, will
impute it to the authors of our common calamities, do Declare and Resolve, as
followeth, to wit:
Resolved, That the inhabitants of these colonies be permitted to fit out
armed vessels to cruize on the enemies of these United Colonies.
Resolved, That all ships and other vessels, their tackle, apparel, and furni-
ture, and all goods, wares, and merchandises, belonging to any inhabitant or
inhabitants of Great-Britain, taken on the high seas, or between high and low
water mark, by any armed vessel, fitted out by any private person or persons,
and to whom-commissions shall be granted, and being libelled and prosecuted
in any court erected for the trial of maritime affairs, in any of these colonies,
shall be deemed and adjudged to be lawful prize; and after deducting and
paying the wages which the seamen and mariners on board of such captures,
as are merchant ships and vessels, shall be entitled to, according to the terms
of their contracts, until the time of the adjudication, shall be condemned to
and for the use of the owner or owners, and the officers, marines, and mariners
of such armed vessel, according to such rules and proportions as they shall
agree on : Provided always, that this resolution shall not extend to any vessel
bringing settlers, arms, ammunition or war-like stores to and for the use of
these colonies, or any of the inhabitants thereof, who are friends to the Ame-
rican cause, or to such war-like stores, or to the effects of such settlers.
Resolved, That all ships or vessels, with their tackle, apparel, and furniture,
goods, wares, and merchandises, belonging to any inhabitant of Great-Britain
as aforesaid, which shall be taken by any of the vessels of war of these United
Colonies, shall be deemed forfeited; one-third, after deducting and paying the
wages of seamen and marines as aforesaid, to the officers and men on board,
and two-thirds to the use of the United Colonies. \
*
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 297
-4–
Resolved, That all ships or vessels, with their tackle, apparel, and furniture’
goods, wares, and merchandises, belonging to any inhabitants of Great-Britain
as aforesaid, which shall be taken by any vessel of war fitted out by and at the
expense of any of the United Colonies, shall be deemed forfeited, and divided,
after deducting and paying the wages of seamen and mariners, as afore;
said, in such manner and proportions as the assembly or convention of such
colony shall direct. * º
Resolved, That all vessels, with their tackle, apparel, and furniture, and car-
goes, belonging to the inhabitants of Great Britain, as aforesaid, and all vessels
which Thay be employed in carrying supplies to the ministerial armies, which
shall happen to be ... near the shores of any of these colonies, by the peo:
ple of the country, or detachments from the army, shall be deemed lawful
rize; and the court of admiralty within the said colony is required, on con:
§º thereof, to adjudge that all charges and expenses which may attend
the capture and trial, be first paid out of the monies arising from the sales of
the prize, and the remainder equally among all those, who shall have been
actually engaged and employed in taking the said prize. Provided, that where
any detachments of the army shall have been employed as aforesaid, their
part of the prize-money shall be distributed among them in proportion to the
pay of the officers and soldiers so employed.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to consider of the fortify-
ing one or more ports on the American coast, in the strongest manner, for the
protection of our cruizers, and the reception of their prizes; that they take the
opinion of the best engineers on the manner and expense, and report thereon
to Congress.
The members chosen, Mr. Harrison, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Hewes, Mr. R.
Morris, and Mr. Whipple. -
Resolved, That the commissioners appointed to go to Canada, or any two of
them, be empowered, if they think it necessary for the service of the United
Colonies, to raise a number of independent companies, not exceeding six, and
to appoint the officers; that they also be empowered to fill up all vacancies
that . happen in the army of the United Colonies in Canada, while they
are there.
Resolved, That 1066 2-3 dollars, in continental money, over and above the
1600 dollars to be paid them in specie, be advanced to the commissioners
going to Canada, to defray their expenses, they to render an account.
Resolved, That 400 dollars, in specie, be paid to Mr. Walker in full for so
much by him lent to gen. Wooster, for the use of the army in Canada, and that
gen. Wooster’s note be taken up and cancelled. - w *
- Resolved, That this Congress will, on Monday next, resolve itself into a
£ommittee of the whole, to take into consideration the trade of the United
Colonies; and that sundry motions offered by the members from Massachusetts-
Bay, Maryland, and Virginia, be referred to said committee.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday. * }
MONDAY, JMarch 25, 1776.
‘Sundry letters were laid-before Congress, and read:
One from general Washington of the 19th, wherein he informs Congress,
º the 17th, the enemy evacuated Boston, and our troops took possession
One from i. Schuyler of the 12th :
9ne from lord Sterling of the 21st; and,
One from the committee of safety of New-Jersey.
Resolved, That the thanks of this Congress, in their own name, and in the
name of the thirteen United Colonies, whom they represent, be presented to
his excellency gen. Washington, and the officers and soldiers under his com-
38
Vol. I.
298 Journals of CONGRESS, 1776
*
mand, for their wise and spirited conduct in the siege and acquisition of Bos-
ton; and that a medal º gold be struck in commemoration of this great
event, and presented to his excellency; and that a committee of three be ap-
pointed to prepare a letter of thanks, and a proper device for the medal.
The members chosen, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Jay, and Mr. Hopkins. #
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to confer with Mr. Dugan,
and colonel Ritzema.
The members chosen, Mr. Harrison, M. Johnson, and Mr. Allen.
Resolved, That 20,000 dollars be advanced to the delegates of Virginia, for
the use of the battalions in that colony; the said delegates to account Ior the
expenditure thereof.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the state of the colonies
in the southern department, brought in their report, which was read as follows :
“That it appears highly probable that avery considerable force will be exert-
ed in that department by our enemies early this spring; that the continental
forces employed in South-Carolina, and Virginia, respectively, cannot pru-
dently be solely relied on, for the defence of those colonies; that South-Caro-
lina, and Virginia, are at a very great separate expense in armed vessels,
rendered absolutely necessary by the situation and circumstances of those
countries; that the militia of South-Carolina are obliged to perform a very
laborious duty, which, from the smallness of their number, and the consequent
quick rotation, is excessively burthensome; and that the colony of Virginia, in
addition to the six continental battalions already there, have resolved to raise,
and are now embodying, three other battalions: Whereupon,
Itesolved, That the convention or council of safety of South-Carolina be
permitted to raise and embody two other battalions, and that they be on the
pay and at the expense of the continent, as soon as they shall be armed fit for
service, and accordingly mustered :
That the three colonial battalions of Virginia be also on the pay and at the
expense of the continent, as soon as they shall be armed fit for service, and
accordingly mustered :
That the contracts made by the council of safety of Virginia for the sub-
sistence of the third battalion in that colony, at six pence half-penny a ration, of
the fifth at eight pence, and of the second, fourth, seventh, eighth, and ninth,
at seven pence half-penny a ration, be confirmed. |
Resolved, That a deputy muster-master general be appointed for the southern
department.
The ballots being taken and examined,
Edmund Randolph esq. was elected.
-Resolved, That E. Randolph, esq., be empowered to appoint two deputy
muster-masters under him, one for North-Carolina, and the other for South-
Carolina and Georgia.
Resolved, That the order of the day be postponed.
The Congress then took into consideration the report of the committee on
the ways and means of supplying the troops in Canada with provisions and
necessaries: Whereupon, \
Resolved, That general Schuyler be directed to take such order respecting
the º of provisions necessary for the troops in Canada, as he may deem
expedient. w
he Congress, being of opinion that the reduction of Quebec, and the gene-
ral i. of the province of Canada, are objects of great concern,
. Ordered, That general Washington be directed to detach four battalions
into Canada, from the army under his command, as soon as he shall be of opi-
mion that the safety of New-York and the eastern service will permit.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. -
~
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 299
tº
sy-
TUESDAY, JMarch 26, 1776.
The Congress being informed that Mr. Ward, one of the delegates of Rhode-
Island, died yesterday,
Resolved, That this Congress will, in a body, attend the funeral of Mr.
Ward, to-morrow, with a crape round the arm, and will continue in mourning
for the space of one month.
Itesolved, That Mr. Hopkins, Mr. S. Adams, and Mr. Wolcott, be a commit-,
tee to superintend the funeral, and that they be directed to apply to the rev.
Mr. Stillman, and request him to preach a funeral sermon on the occasion:
That the said committee be directed to invite the assembly and committee
of safety of Pennsylvania, and other public bodies in Philadelphia, to attend
the funeral. * *
Resolved, That the privates of the companies ordered from Maryland to
Accomac and Northampton, be allowed the pay of the privates in the southern
department, which is 62-3 dollars per calendar month.
Resolved, That if the convention or council of safety of North-Carolina
shall judge it necessary for the common safety to raise one or two more bat-
talions, the same, when armed fit for service and mustered, be taken into the
pay of the continent.
Resolved, That commodore Douglass be ordered immediately to repair to :
the lakes, and take the command of the vessels on that station.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Thursday. $.
THURSDAY, JMarch 28, 1776.
Resolved, That an order for 20,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favour of William Barrel, of Philadelphia, in full for tent-cloth sent by him to
colonel Mifflin, for the use of the army under the command of general Wash-
ington ; the money being paid in consequence of the general’s letter of the
13th ; to be charged to the account of the general.
łęesolved, That the marine committee be empowered to purchase, on the
most reasonable terms they can, the ship Molly, for the use of the continent,
and to fit her out, with all possible expedition, to join captain Barry, on his
cruize along the coast, between New-York and Virginia.
A memorial of Thomas Walker of Canada was presented to Congress, and
read : *
º letters, of the 27th, from the committee of safety of New-Jersey, were
rea.G. :
Resolved, That the president return an answer, and inform the committee
of safety of New-Jersey, that the Congress see no reason to alter or counter-
mand the requisition of the 15th, and that, therefore, they be requested to ex-
pedite the march of the troops to New-York, agreeable to the requisition of the
commanding officer.
The Congress proceeded to the election of a colonel of the third battalion
ordered to be raised in the colony of New-York; and, the ballots being taken,
Rudolphus Ritzema was elected.
The cºmmittee appointed to confer with colonel Ritzema and Mr. Dugan,
brought in their report, which was read.
Resolved, That an order for 1000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in fa-
vor of Mr. Jeremiah Dugan, as a reward for his services in Canada.
. Resolved, That Mr. Jeremiah Dugan be appointed a major, with the rank of
fieutenant-colonel, to command a body of three hundred rangers.
That the said rangers be divided into three companies, each to consist of one
hundred men, and to be commanded by a captain and two lieutenants: That
the captains, and lieutenants be recommended by lieutenant-colonel Dugan to
the commissioners going to Canada for their approbation; and that, if they ap-
Prove the gentlemen recommended, they grant them commissions,
300 z JoURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.

–4.
Resolved, That Mr. William Finney be appointed a deputy quarter-master
in the southern department. -
Resolved, That two engineers be employed for the southern department.
Resolved, That an order for 20,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in fa-
vor of Mr. James Mease, for the use of the Pennsylvania battalions, he to be
accountable.
Information being given to Congress that some prisoners in the gaol of Phila-
delphia have meditated an escape, and are near carrying their plan into execu-
tion:
Resolved, That the gaoler be directed to confine John Connolly, J. Smith,
and Moses Kirkland, in separate apartments, and suffer no person to converse
with any of them, without special orders of Congress.
Resolved, That the sheriff of the city and county of Philadelphia be direct-
ed, by Mr. M'Kean, to call to his assistance a guard of fifty men from the bar-
racks for the defence of the gaol; and that the sheriff be farther directed to
keep secret any intimation given him of a design to rescue his prisoners, and
i. employ every means to discover and apprehend those concerned in such
€S19 11. f
Hºwa, That an order for 1000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in favor
of Mr. Samuel Fairlamb, for the use of the fourth Pennsylvania battalion, he
to be accountable. --
The matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
- FRIDAY, JMarch 29, 1776.
Sundry letters were laid before Congress, and read: t
Two from general Schuyler, of the 19th and 21st, with a copy of the treaty
held with the Indians at Albany, &c.
One from the convention of New-York, of the 26th :
One from Allan MºDonald. #
Resolved, That the letter from Allan M*Donald be referred to the committee
on prisoners.
hat the other letters, with the papers enclosed, be referred to Mr. Wythe,
Mr. Harrison, and Mr. S. Adams.
esolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to Mr. William
Henry, and Co. 15 lbs. of powder, to prove the muskets he has contracted to
make for the continent. *
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on
the means of supplying the troops in Canada: Whereupon,
Pesolved, That a 㺠commissary-general of stores and provisions be
appointed for the army of the United Colonies in Canada. T
The ballots being taken and examined, f
Mr. J. Price was elected.
Resolved, That the last paragraph of the report be recommitted for further
enquiry and examination. º *
A letter from the committee of safety of New-Jersey, and one from cap-
tain John Macpherson, were received, and read.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
*~
SATURDAY, JMarch 30, 1776.
Resolved, That 60 dollars be advanced to captain Arundel, tobe deducted out
of his pay, and that he be directed immediately to repair to the southern de-
partment, and put himself under the command of general Lee. * -
Aesolved, That Monsieur Dechambault, and his companion, be permitted to
come to Philadelphia and transact his business, and then return to Bristol.
The Congress proceeded to the election of two engineers for the southern
department; and, the ballots being taken,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 301
John Stadler and Monsieur Massenback were elected.
The Congress took into consideration the letter from the committee of safety
tof ñº. Whereupon,
Resolved, That the minute-men employed by Mongress under the command
of colonel Heard, in the expedition to Long-Island, be allowed, while on that
service, the same pay and rations as the continental troops in the middle de-
partment. *
Resolved, That the delegates of New-York prepare an answer to the com-
mittee of safety of New Jersey, and assign the reasons of the foregoing re-
solution.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To William Tricket, for stationary, the sum of 41.7 dollars:
To Philip Apricht for provisions to general Lee’s guard, the sum of 4.7 dol-
lars, and that the same ought to be paid to Adam Kimmel :
To sundries, on certificates for necessaries furnished to the rifle companies,
the sum of 42.2 dollars, and that 2.5 dollars, part of said sum, be charged to
captain Cressop's company.
* To sundries on certificates for rifles, shirts, &c. furnished to captain Clug-
gage’s company, the sum of 81.1 dollars, which ought to be paid to John Mont-
gomery, esq. and charged to said company.
To Robert Erwin, wagon-master, on an account now settled, the sum of
409.3 dollars.
To Sacheverel Wood, for provisions furnished by him to several prisoners in
the gaol of Philadelphia, the sum of 137.6 dollars:
To Thomas Dewees, for provisions for Connolly, Cameron, Smith, and Kirk-
land, the sum of 57.8 dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The committee appointed to confer with major Wrixon, brought in their re-
port, which was read:
Resolved, That each regimental surgeon be allowed a mate:
That the pay of a surgeon’s mate be 18 dollars a month.
Resolved, That suitable chirurgical instruments be purchased with each
medicine chest.
Resolved, That each brigadier-general, when on command, be empowered to
appoint a brigade-major.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, April 1, 1776.
Resolved, That captain D. Arundel be allowed 48.5 dollars, in full for pay
and subsistence from the 8th of February, the time he was recommended to
general Schuyler, to the 19th of March, when he received his commission.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to advance captain Romans one
month’s pay for himself and the officers and men of his company, and also sub-
sistence money to Albany. ---
The committee to whom the petition of captain White-Eyes was referred,
brought in their report, which was read:
Resolved, That the same be taken into consideration to-morrow.
The Congress having, on the 17th of February last, appointed a standing
committee for superintending the treasury, with power, among other things,
to employ and instruct proper persons for liquidating the public accounts;
and the said resolutions not being sufficiently explicit, with respect to the man-
ner and place of settling those accounts, and it being a matter of great con-
sequence, that the º accounts should be regularly stated and kept, and
justly liquidated and settled; */
Resolved, therefore, That a treasury-office of accounts be instituted and
established, and that such office be kept in the city or place, where Congress
shall, from tiné to time, be assembled and hold their sessions:
302 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
ł
º
That the said office of accounts be under the direction and superintendence
of the standing committee for the treasury:
That an auditor-general, and a competent number of assistants and clerks,
be appointed by Congress, and employed, for stating, arranging, and keeping
the public accounts: #
That all accounts and claims against the United Colonies, for services or
supplies, where the rates or prices have not been ascertained by Congress,
shall be presented to the committee of claims, liquidated by them, and repert-
ed to and allowed by Congress, previous to their being passed at the treasury-
office; that all other accounts and claims, consisting of articles, the price or
value of which shall have previously been fixed by contract, or otherwise ascer-
tained by Congress, shall be liquidated and settled at the treasury-office, and
reported for the allowance of Congress, by the committee for superintending
the treasury, and then passed and entered at the treasury-office.
That all contracts, securities, and obligations, for the use and benefit of the
United Colonies, shall be lodged and kept in the treasury-office of accounts ;
and that all persons to whom public monies have been or shall be advanced or
paid, shall be charged with the same in the books of the said office, for which
every warrant on the treasury, which shall issue after the said office shall be
opened, shall, previous to its being paid, be entered at the treasury-office, and
the entry certified on the warrant, by one of the committee on the treasu,
ry, the auditor-general, or one of his assistants or clerks; provided, however,
that all orders or warrants issued by committees appointed and authorized by
Congress to draw on the treasurers for particular purposes, shall be paid and
charged to the account of the said committee respectively, until they shall set-
tle and have their accounts passed by Congress, when the debits against them
shall be discharged in the treasury-office, by such credits as Congress shall
agree to and allow :
That all assemblies, conventions, councils, or committees of safety, com-
missaries, pay-masters, and others, entrusted with public monies, shall, within
a reasonable time, after being called upon for that purpose by the committee of
the treasury, produce their accounts and vouchers at the treasury office, in
order to their being settled and adjusted in the manner before directed :
That the committee for superintending the treasury shall be authorized to
apply to the commanding officers and others, in the continental service, for
such materials and information, as the committee may judge to be useful, for
stating, explaining, or checking the public accounts, in order to their being fairly
and justly settled : &
That the auditor-general and his assistants or clerks, before entering upon
their offices, shall, respectively, take an oath, to be administered by one or
more of the committee of the treasury-office (a certificate whereof shall be
filed in the treasury-office) well and faithfully to execute the trust reposed in
them, as auditor, assistant, or clerk, (as the case may be,) of the office of ac-
counts, established by Congress, according to the best of their skill and judg-
ment, and to disclose no matter, the knowledge of which shall be acquired in
consequence of such their office, which they shall be directed to keep secret:
That the committee for superintending the treasury shall be authorized to
hire suitable places, and procure books of accounts and other necessaries at the
public expense, for the establishing and doing the business of the said office.
Resolved, That major James Hewes, a prisoner at Elizabethtown, be allowed
and ordered to come to Philadelphia for the benefit of his health, and there to
Wait on the committee for prisoners, and take their directions with respect to
the place of his future residence. | *
Resolved, That Mr. M'Kean and Mr. Paine be directed to examine the gaol
of Philadelphia, and particularly the apartments where Kirkland, Connolly,
Smith and Cameron are confined, and report what is necessary to be done tº
have them safely and securely kept, *
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 303
—º-
---as-
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to confer with James
M“Knight, and examine his account, and the nature of his claim, and report
thereon to Congress.
The members chosen, Mr. R. Morris, Mr. M'Kean, and Mr. De Hart.
The committee on qualifications having recommended Jacob Kemper, jun. to
be appointed an ensign in captain Howell’s company in the first New-Jersey
battalion, in the room of Cyprus De Hart, who has resigned,
Resolved, That he be appointed, and that a commission be granted to him
accordingly.
Resolved, That the president, in his next letter to general Schuyler, desire
him to send an account of the lead at Ticonderoga. --
A letter from Alexander M’Donnald, George Gillespie, and J. W. Saunders,
of the 12th of March, was presented to Congress and read:
H Resolved, That it be referred to Mr. R. Morris, Mr. M'Kean, and Mr. De
art. *
4.djourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, April 2, 1776.
A letter from general Washington, of the 24th of March, with five papers
enclosed, was laid before Congress and read.
| The committee appointed to prepare the form of a commission, and instruc-
tions to commanders of private ships of war, brought in the same, which were
read.
The commission, being agreed to, is as follows:
The delegates of the United Colonies of New-Hampshire, &c. to all to whom
these presents shall come, greeting: Know ye, that we have granted, and, by
these presents, do grant, license and authority to mariner, commander
of the called , , of the burden of tons, or thereabouts, belonging
to of in the colony of mounting carriage guns, and
navigated by men, to fit out and set forth the said in a warlike manner,
and by and with the said and the crew thereof, by force of arms, to attack,
seize and take the ships and other vessels belonging to the inhabitants of
Great-Britain, or any of them, with their tackle, apparel, furniture, and lading,
on the high seas, or between high and low water marks, and to bring the same
to some convenient ports in the said colonies, in order that the courts which
are or shall be there appointed to hear and determine causes, civil and maritime,
may proceed, in due form, to condemn the said captures, if they be adjudged
lawful prize; the'said havinggiven bond, with sufficient sureties, that nothing
be done by the said or any of the officers, mariners, or company thereof, con-
trary to, or inconsistent with the usages and customs of nations, and the instruc-
tions, a copy of which is herewith delivered to him. And we will and require all
our officers whatsoever to give succor and assistance to the said in the pre-
mises. This commission shall continue in force until the Congress shall issue
orders to the contrary.
By order of Congress.
Attest, President.
The Congress then took into consideration the draught of instructions; and,
after some time spent thereon, }
Resolved, That it be recommitted, and that it be an instruction to the com-
mittee, to fill up the blanks in said draught as they shall think best.
The committee appointed to prepare a letter of thanks to general Washing-
ton, and the officers and soldiers under his command, brought in a draught,
which was read and agreed to: \
Qrdered, That it be transcribed, signed by the president, and forwarded.
The committee on prisoners, to whom the letter from M. Belletre, of the 16th
304 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776."
{
of March last, was referred, brought in their report, which was read: Where-
upon,
"ºlved. That the sum of 3,400 dollars be advanced by the treasurers to M.
Belletre, on his delivering to them his bills of exchange for the like sum, paya-
ble in gold or silver in the province of Canada. *
A petition from William Lindsay being presented to Congress and read,
Resolved, That colonel Wayne be directed to discharge Robert, the $on of
said William Lindsay, inlisted in his battalion.
The matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
*
, WEDNESDAY, April 3, 1776.
Resolved, That the letter from general Washington, of the 24th of March,
with the papers enclosed, be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Jay, and Mr. Wilson.
A memorial and petition from captain John Nelson was presented to Con-
gress and read ; also,
A petition from P. Moore, in behalf of the owners of the sloops Congress and
Chance privateers, was presented and read :
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell said owners 400 lbs.
of powder for the use of their privateers.
The committee of claims, to whom the account of Messrs. Price and Hay-
wood was referred, brought in their report: Whereupon, *
Resolved, That there be advanced to Messrs. Price and Haywood, the sum
of 64,358.6 dollars on account of supplies to the army in Canada, to be ac-
counted for on the settlement of their accounts; and that general Wooster be
directed to forward the accounts and vouchers lodged in his hands. f
The said committee farther reported, that there is due, *
To the township of Montague, in the county of Sussex, in New-Jersey, for
slay-hire, in forwarding the prisoners from Canada, under the command of
captain Brasher, the sum of 45 dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to
Nicholas Christopher.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
A letter from H. Fisher, of Lewistown, to the committee of safety of SPenn-
. together with a resolve of said committee; being laid before Congress
and rea(1, &
Resolved, That the commanding officer of the battalion raised in Delaware
government, be directed to send two companies of said battalion to Lewis-
town, there to remain in the service of the continent till farther orders.
Resolved, That the marine committee be directed and empowered to fit out,
with all expedition, two armed cutters, for the service of the continent.
Resolved, That blank commissions for private ships of war and letters of
marque and reprisal signed by the president, be sent to the general assemblies,
conventions, and councils or committees of safety of the United Colonies, to
be by them filled up and delivered to the persons intending to fit out such pri-
vate ships of war, for making captures of British vessels and cargoes, who shall
apply for the same, and execute the bonds which shall be sent with the said
commissions, which bonds shall be returned to the Congress.
Resolved, That every person intending to set forth and fit out a private ship
or vessel of war, and applying for a commission or letters of marque and re-
prisal for that purpose, shall produce a writing subscribed by him, containing
the name and tonnage or burden of the ship or vessel, the number of her guns,
with their weight of metal, the name and place of residence of the owner or
owners, the names of the commander and other officers, the number of the
crew, and the quantity of provisions and war-like stores; which writing shall
be delivered to the secretary of Congress, or to the clerk of the house of re-
tº a
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. '805
presentatives, convention, or council, or committee of safety of the colony in
which the ship or vessel shall be, to be transmitted to the said secretary, and
shall be registered by him; and that the commander of the ship or vessel; be-
fore the commission or letters of marque and reprisal may be granted, shall,
together with sureties, seal and deliver a bond, in the penalty of five thousand
dollars, if the vessel be of one hundred tons or under, or ten thousand dollars,
if of a greater burden, payable to the president of the Congress, in trust for
the use of the United Colonies, with condition in the form following, to wit:
“The condition of this obligation is such, that if the above bounden , who
is commander of the , called , belonging to , of , in the colon
of . , mounting carriage guns, and navigated by men, and who hat
applied for a commission, and letters of marque and reprisal, to arm, equip, and
set forth to sea, the said as a private ship of war, and to make captures of
British vessels and cargoes, shall not exceed or transgress the powers and àUl-
thorities which shall be contained in the said counnission, but shall, in all things,
observe and conduct himself, and govern his crew, by and according to the
same, and certain instructions there with to be delivered, and such other in-
structions as may hereafter be given to him, and shall make reparation for all
damages sustained by any misconduct or unwarrantable proceedings of him-
self, or the officers or crew of the said ; then this obligation shall be void,
or else remain in force;” which bond shall be lodged with the said secretary of
Congress.
The committee to whom the instructions to the commanders of private ships
or vessels of war, were recommitted, brought in a report, which being taken
into consideration, and debated by paragraphs, was agreed to as follows:
Instructions to the commanders of private ships or vessels of war, which shall have commissions or
letters of marque and reprisal, authorizing them to make captures of British vessels and cargoes.
1. You may, by force of arms, attack, subdue, and take all ships and other
vessels belonging to the inhabitants of Great-Britain, on the high seas, or be-
tween high water and low water marks, except ships and vessels bringing
persons who intend to settle and reside in the United Colonies; or bringing
arms, ammunition, or war-like stores, to the said colonies, for the use of such
inhabitants thereof as are friends to the American cause, which you shall suffer
to pass unmolested, the commanders thereof permitting a peaceable search,
and giving satisfactory information of the contents of the ladings, and destina-
tions of the voyages. *
2. You may, by force of arms, attack, subdue, and take all ships and other
vessels whatsoever, carrying soldiers, arms, gunpowder, ammunition, provi-
sions, or any other contraband goods, to any of the British armies or ships of
War employed against these colonies.
3. You shall bring such ships and vessels, as you shall take, with their guns,
rigging, tackle, apparel, furniture, and ladings, to some convenient port or ports
of the United Colonies, that proceedings may thereupon be had, in due form,
before the courts, which are or shall be there appointed to hear and determine
causes civil and maritime.
.4. You, or one of your chief officers, shall bring or send the master and
Pilot, and one or more principal person or persons of the company of every
ship ºr vessel by you taken, as soon after the capture as may be, to the judge
or judges of such court as aforesaid, to be examined upon oath, and make an-
swer to the interrogatories which may be propounded, touching the interest or
property of the ship or vessel, and her lading; and, at the same time, you shall
deliver, or cause tº be delivered, to the judge or judges, all passes, sea-briefs,
Charter-parties, bills of lading, cockets, letters, and other documents and writ-
ings found on board, proving the said papers, by the affidavit of yourself, or of
some other person present at the capture, to be produced as they were received,
without fraud, addition, subduction or embezzlement.
Vol. I. 39
...”
306 * JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
*. * *-* * *---- ** –--—A- *-
{.
5. You shall keep and preserve every ship or vessel, and cargo, by you
Staken, until they shall, by a sentence of a court properly authorized, be ad-
judged lawful prizes; not selling, spoiling, wasting, or diminishing the same,
or breaking the bulk thereof, nor suffering any such thing to be done.
6. If you, or any of your officers- or crew, shall, in colò blood, kill or maim,
or by torture or otherwise, cruelly, inhumanly, and, contrary to common
usage, and the practice of civilized nations in war, treat any person or persons
.#. in the ship or vessel you shall take, the offender shall be severely
punished.
7. You shall, by all convenient opportunities, send to Congress written ac-
counts of the captures you shall .. with the number and names of the cap-
tives, copies of your journal from time to time, and intelligence of what may
occur or be discovered concerning the designs of the enemy, and the destina-
tion, motions, and operations of their fleets and armies.
8. One-third, at least, of your whole company shall be landsmen.
9. You shall not ransom any prisoners or captives, but shall dispose of them
in such manner, as the Congress, or, if that be not sitting, in the colony whither
they shall be brought, as the general assembly, convention, or council, or com-
mittee of safety, of such colony shall direct.
10. You shall observe all such further instructions as Congress shall hereaf-
ter give in the premises, when you shall have notice thereof.
11. If you shall do any thing contrary to these instructions, or to others
hereafter to be given, or willingly suffer such thing to be done, you shall not
only forfeit your commission, and be liable to an action for the breach of the
condition of your bond, but be responsible to the party grieved for damages
sustained by such malversation.
Resolved, That an order for 20,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in
favor of James Mease, commissary, for the use of the Pennsylvania battalions,
he to be accountable. Y.
Resolved, That the pay of the auditor of accounts be at the rate of one thou-
sand and sixty-six dollars and two-thirds of a dollar per annum.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow morning, resolve itself into a
committee of the whole to take into consideration the trade of the United Co-
lonies. -
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. *.
THURSDAY, April 4, 1776.
Resolved, That the treasurers be directed to take colonel Belletre’s bills
drawn on some of his friends or correspondents in Canada, and not upon
general Carleton.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To John De Hart, for provisions furnished by Archibald Campbell, the sum
of 17.9 dollars.
Ordered, That the said account be paid.
Resolved, That an order for one hundred dollars be drawn on the treasurers
in favor of Mons. Le Fontaine, for his services in Canada.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the trade of the United Colonies,
and, after some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr.
Harrison reported, that the committee had taken into consideration the mat-
ters referredto them, and had come to sundry resolutions, which he was order-
ed to deliver in.
* resolutions agreed to by the committee of the whole Congress being
read,
Ordered, To lie on the table.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 307
The committee, to whom were referred the memorial from James Miknight,
and the letter from Alexander M'Donnald, George Gillespie, and J. W. Saun-
ders, brought in their report, which was read: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the committee of inspection and observation of the county
of Burlington, be requested to make sale of the sloop Sally, whereof the said
James M*Knight was prize-master, and which was lately run ashore by him,
within the said county, together with her tackle, apparel, and furniture, and the
cargo on board, at public auction; and after deducting the charges of ser
curing and selling the same, to pay one moiety of the surplus to the said
James M*Knight for salvage, and retain the other moiety thereof for the owner
Or O WI101’S.
That Messrs. Alexander M'Donnald, George Gillespie, and J. W. Saunders,
who have lately come into the colony of New-Jersey from the British West-
India islands, where, and in Great-Britain, they have considerable property re-
maining, be excused from entering into the militia of the said colony, and from
signing the association; provided always, that they be, in all other respects,
subject to the like taxes and regulations with the other inhabitants of the said
colony.
#. committee appointed to consider the best ways and means of supplying
the army in Canada, brought in a farther report, which was read :
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That the sum of 53 dollars be advanced to Mons. St. Aulaire, to
be deducted out of his pay.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Saturday.
SATURDAY, April 6, 1776.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to supply captain Romans
with twenty-four muskets for the use of his company.
That the said committee be directed to deliver to colonel St. Clair six lbs.
º: and four pounds of lead, for the use of the rifle company of his bat-
talion.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report from the committee of
the whole; and the same being twice read, and debated by paragraphs, was
agreed to as follows: &
Resolved, That any goods, wares, or merchandise, except staves and empty
casks, other than shaken or knocked down casks for molasses, may be exported
from the thirteen United Colonies, by the inhabitants thereof, and by the peo-
ple of all such countries as are not subject to the king of Great-Britain, to any
parts of the world which are not under the dominion of the said king; provided,
that no vessel be permitted to export any greater number of shaken or knocked
down molasses casks, than the same vessel is capable of carrying when they
shall be filled with molasses.
Aesolved, That any goods, wares, and merchandises, except such as are of
the growth, production, or manufacture of, or brought from any country under the
dominion ºthe king of Great-Britain, and except East-India tea, may be im-
ported from any other parts of the world to the thirteen United Colonies, by the
inhabitants thereof, and by the people of all such countries as are not subject
to the said king; liable, however, to all such duties and impositions as now
are, or may hereafter be laid by any of the said colonies.
Resolved, That nothing herein contained shall be understood to prevent such
future commercial regulations as shall be thought just and necessary by these
United Colonies, or their respective legislatures.
. Resolved, That no slaves be imported into any of the thirteen United Colo-
IllèS.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the assemblies and conventions in the
several colonies, to appoint proper officers, at convenient places in their respec-
tive colonies, to take bonds, in adequate penalties, for observing the regulations
308 Journals of congress, 1776.
l
made by the Congress, or assemblies, or conventions, concerning trade, and for
securing the observation of such parts of the association as are not inconsistent
therewith ; and that the obligor shall, within eighteen months after the depar:
ture of the vessel, produce to such officers a certificate, under the hands and
seals of three or more reputable merchants, residing at the port or place where
the cargo shall be delivered, that the same was there unladed, and take mani-
fests upon oath, of the cargoes exported and imported, and keep fair accounts
and entries thereof, give bills of health when desired, grant registers shewing
the property of the vessels cleared out, and sign certificates that the requisites
for qualifying vessels to trade have been complied with : And that the fees of
the said officers be stated by the respective assemblies or conventions : Pro-
vided always, that no prosecution upon any of the said bonds shall be com-
menced but within three years after the date thereof.
Resolved, That all goods, wares, and merchandises, except such as are made
prize of, which shall be imported directly or indirectly from Great-Britain or
Ireland, into any of these United Colonies, contrary to the regulations esta-
blished by Congress, shall be forfeited and disposed of, agreeable to such rules
as shall be made by the several assemblies or conventions, and shall be liable to
3. and condemnation in any court erected, or to be erected, for the
ºlution of maritime affairs, in the colony where the seizure shall be
Iſla Cie. -- *.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to bring in a resolution for
disposing of and using the tea now in these colonies :
The members chosen, Mr. R. Morris, Mr. Jay, and Mr. M'Kean.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Robert Erwin, wagon-master, for William M’Carty’s and Richard Key's
teams, to Virginia, with powder, each thirty days, and ferriages, the sum of
250.5 dollars.
Ordered, That the same be paid. A
The committee to whom the letters from general Schuyler, of the 7th and
19th, and from W. Paulding, esq. chairman of a committee of the convention of
New-York, of the 26th of March last, were referred, brought in their report,
which being taken into ...'";
Resolved, That the committee ºf inspection and observation of Albany be
desired to examine, state and settle the accounts of expenses incurred in the
taking of Ticonderoga and Crown-Point, which shall be laid before them by ge-
neral Schuyler, and report the same to Congress. *
Resolved, That the commissioners for Indian affair in the northern depart-
ment be desired to assure the Indians that Congress will do every thing in
their power to procure goods for them, and hope they shall soon accomplish it.
Resolved, That Robert Yates be appointed secretary to the commissioners for
Indian affairs in the northern department, and be allowed at the rate of two
hundred and fifty dollars by the year.
Resolved, That the remainder of the report be postponed.
A letter from general Washington of the 27th of March, and
A letter from brigadier general Heath, being received and read,
Itesolved, That the letter from general Washington, with the papers enclos-
ed, be referred to a committee of the whole Congress.
Resolved, That the sum of 100,000 dollars be sent to New-York, for the use
of the army there, in the service of the United Colonies.
The committee for prisoners brought in a report, which was read :
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That the delegates of Virginia be directed to write to their conven-
tion, or committee or council of safety, to collect and forward to the treasurers
of the United Colonies, what gold and silver they can procure, and to draw on
the president for the amount ifiereof, at the rate of eight dollars for half-joes,
Weighing nine pennyweight. *
/
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 309
*-
The committee on qualifications, having recommended Samuel Checkley, as
a proper person to fill a vacancy of an ensign in the third Pennsylvania bat-
talion :
Ordered, That a commission be granted to the said Samuel Checkley ac-
cordingly.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Tuesday next.
TUESDAY, April 9, 1776.
Resolved, That the sum of 200,000 dollars be sent to New-York, for the use
of the continental forces there.
A list of prisoners brought from Canada by major Zedwitz, and a letter of the
4th from John Nelson, chairman of the committee of Brunswick, respecting
risoners brought to that place; also, a letter from colonel Haslet, of the De-
aware battalion, being laid before Congress, and read,
Itesolved, That they be referred to the committee on prisoners.
A letter of the 5th, from captain Brice, a prisoner at Brunswick, was pre-
sented to Congress and read; Whereupon,
Resolved, That captain Brice be permitted to come to Philadelphia, in order
to consult a physician, and there wait the orders of Congress.
A letter of the 6th of March, from brigadier-general Wooster, and a letter
of the 26th of the same month from general Schuyler, were laid before Con-
gress; and read.
The Congress proceeded to the election of an auditor-general, and the bal-
lots being taken and examined,
John Gibson, esq. was elected.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on pri-
soners: Whereupon,
Resolved, That captain Thomas Gamble be not exchanged, there being no
cartel settled.
Resolved, That captain Duncan Campbell be permitted to reside with his
wife and family in the city of Burlington, in New-Jersey.
Resolved, That the committee on prisoners be directed to write to general
Schuyler, and take his opinion whether Allan M*Donald, and the other hostages
taken in Tryon county, may, consistent with the public safety, be permitted to
return to their respective homes on their parole.
Resolved, That a list of the prisoners of war in each colony be made out and
transmitted to the house of assembly, convention, council, or committee of
safety of such colony respectively, and that they be authorized and requested to
cause a strict observance of the terms on which such prisoners have been en-
larged, and also to take especial care that none of those confined by order of
Congress, be suffered to escape; and also, that the allowance to each prisoner
be punctually paid by the president of the convention, or of the council or
committee of safety of the colony in which he resides; and where there are no
conventions, by the speakers of assembly, which said presidents or speakers
are hereby authorized, from time to time, to draw for the sums advanced in
pursuance of this resolution, upon the president of Congress.
Resolved, That brigadier-general Prescot, upon subscribing the parole or-
dered, be enlarged from his present confinement.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Lewis Nicola, for repairs done at the old gaol in this city, fitted up for
the reception of troops, the sum of 226 dollars:
. To Joseph Page, for his service in attending the powder-wagons to Vir-
ginia, the sum of 55 dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to Benjamin
Harrison, esq. f
To Jacob Garrigues, for transcribing minutes, letters, &c. for Congress, the
sum of 48.2 dollars: *
310 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
—-
To John Bruce, for 402 tin cartouch-boxes, the sum of 174.2 dollars:
To John Armer and Samuel Allen, for bringing baggage, &c., belonging to
Messrs. Dulhunt and Gamilli, from New-York to Philadelphia, the sum of 21
dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to Samuel Allen:
To sundry persons, for horse hire, provisions, &c. the sum of 12.5 dollars,
and that the same ought to be paid to John Alsop, esq.
To Clement Biddle, for provisions, &c. for the British troops of the 7th and
26th regiments, who are prisoners, the sum of 294 dollars, and for waimpum
for the southern department, the sum of 59 dollars:
To Ludowic Kuhn, for boarding part of captain Roman’s company of ma-
trosses, the sum of 59.8 dollars:
To Willian Shepherd, for two horses sold by him to general Lee, and for
sundry articles of geers, the sum of 175.7 dollars:
To Matthias Slough, for provisions for the 7th and 26th regiments of British
troops, from the 26th February, to the 21st March, the sum of 193.3 dollars.
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid. *
Lord Sterling having, agreeable to the order of Congress of the 19th of
March last, appointed persons to value the boat of Michael Kearney, jun. and
transmitted to Congress the valuation by them made, amounting to 725 dollars:
Ordered, That the same be paid to the said Michael Kearney.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, April 10, 1776.
Two letters of the 1st from general Washington, were laid before Congress
and read; also a letter of the 8th from John Connolly.
Resolved, That the letters from general Washington be referred to a com-
mittee of the whole Congress.
The committee to whom the report on Indian affairs in the middle department,
and the petition of captain White-Eyes, were referred, brought in their report,
which was taken into consideration: Whereupon, , ,
Resolved, That the commissioners for Indian affairs in the middle depart-
ment, or any one of them, be desired to employ, for reasonable salaries, a mi-
nister of the gospel, to reside among the Delaware Indians, and instruct them
in the Christian religion; a school-master to teach their youth reading, writing,
and arithmetic ; also, a blacksmith to do the work of the Indians in the .
dle department.
Resolved, That the commissioners for Indian affairs in the middle depart-
ment, be desired to provide, at the expense of the United Colonies, for the
entertainment of the sachems and warriors of the Indians, and their attend-
ants and messengers, with the accustomed hospitality, when they come to
Pittsburg, to treat, or give intelligence of public affairs, or upon a visit.
Resolved, That the commissioners for Indian affairs be desired to acquaint
the Indians in their respective departments, that Congress have formed a plan
for importing goods to supply their necessities :
That the commissioners for Indian affairs be desired to enquire, and report
the cause, of the discontent of the Indians in the middle department, what
measures may be pursued to restore quiet and harmony, and to use their ut-
most endeavors, in the mean time, to prevent hostilities.
Resolved, That although the prosperity of Dartmouth college, in the colony
of New-Hampshire, is a desirable object, it is neither seasonable nor prudent
to contribute towards its relief or support, out of the public treasury.
Resolved, That so soon as conveniently may be, a treaty be held between
the commissioners for Indian affairs in the middle department, and the nations
of Indians to the westward; and that the said commissioners be desired to ap-
oint the time and place of meeting for that purpose, and give the Indians in-
formation thereof. -> t \.
\
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 311
ah. —1– -*
Resolved, That it be referred to captain George Morgan, Eneas Mackay,
esq. and captain John Neville, to adjust and determine all matters of differ-
ence between Coquataginta, or captain White-Eyes, and Messrs. Bernard
Gratz and Michael Gratz; and that the arbitrators, in case either of the par-
ties to whom it is recommended to submit to their award, shall refuse to abide
thereby, report the reasons of such refusal, with a state of the case, and any
other matters they shall think fit, to Congress.
That disputes which shall arise between any of the white people and the
Indians in their dealings, (if the latter will consent) be determined by arbi-
trators, chosen, one by each of the parties, and another by the commissioners
for Indian affairs, or when they are absent, by the agent in the department
where the Indian party resides. •
The Congress then proceeded to the choice of an agent for Indian affairs in
the middle department, and the ballots being taken and examined,
George Morgan, esq. was elected.
Resolved, That the sum of 300 dollars be presented to captain White-Eyes.
Itesolved, That George Morgan, esq. the agent for Indian affairs in the mid-
dle department, be empowered to purchase for captain White-Eyes, two
horses with two saddles and bridles, and that the treasurers be directed to pay
to the said George Morgan, a sum not exceeding 100 dollars for defraying the
expenses thereof. .
Resolved, That the following speech be delivered to captain White-Eyes to-
morrow morning.
ºl-
* BRoth ER CAPTAIN WHITE-EYES,
“We have not been unmindful of our promise made to you and your na-
tion, the 16th of December. We now thank you for your speech to us the 2d
of last month.
“BROTHERS, THE DELAwares,
“At the council-fire, at Pittsburg, last fall, and since by our brother cap-
tain White-Eyes, who hath been all the winter with us, you requested our
assistance to promote peace and useful, knowledge among you, particularly
the knowledge of the Christian religion. We rejoice, brothers, to find you
thus disposed, and will, as early as we can, provide a suitable minister, and
school-master, and a sober man to instruct you in agriculture. These things
we agree to do, brothers, at your request, and to convince you that we wish to
advance your happiness, and that there may be a lasting union between us, and
that, as you express it, we may become one people. fhe introduction of use-
ful arts among you will be effected, we apprehend, by encouraging handicraft
imen to settle and reside in your country. The method of doing this, must be
left to your own discretion.
“BROTHERs,
“We desire you will make it known among all the Indian nations to the
Westward, that we are determined to cultivate peace and friendship with them,
and that we will endeavor, by making the best regulations in our power, to pre-
vent any of our people wronging them in any manner, or taking their lands;
and that we will strive to put the trade between us on such a footing, as will
sººre the peace, and promote the interest of all parties; and we expect, that
all the Wise men of every Indian nation, will use their influence for the same
purpose. f -
“BRoth ERs,
“We have named George Morgan, esq. as agent under our commissioners
for Indian affairs in the middle department, and we desire you will confer
with him on whatever business you may have with us. We hope you will in-
form him of all public matters, "we'recommend him to your friendship,
*
3.19. JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
“BROTHERs,
“You tell us, that your uncles, our brothers, the Wiandots, have given
your nation a large tract of country, comprehended between the river Ohio on
the south, the west branch of the river Muskingham and Sandusky on the
west, Lake Erie on the north, and Presque-Isle on the east:
BROTHERS,
* Hearken to our advice. As we are informed that your uncles, our brothers,
the Six Nations, claim most of those lands, we recommend it to you to obtain
their approbation of this grant to you from the Wiandots in public council, and
have it put on record. Such a step will prevent uneasiness and jealousy on
their part, and continue the confidence and friendship which subsists between
you and them. We wish to promote the lasting peace and happiness of all
our brothers, the Indian nations, who live with us on this great island. As
far as your settlement and sécurity may depend upon us, you may be assured
of our protection. We shall take all the care in our power, that no interrup-
tion or disturbance be given you by our people, nor shall any of them be suf-
fered, by force or fraud, to deprive you of any of your lands, or to settle them
without a fair purchase from you, and your free consent. If, contrary to our
intention, any injury should be offered to you by any of our people, inform
us of it, and we shall be always ready to procure you satisfaction and
redress. t
“BRoth ER cAPTAIN WHITE-EYEs,
We desire you will inform your nation, your uncles the Six Nations, and
Wiandots, your grand children the Shawanese, and all the other nations, what
you have seen and heard among us, and exhort them to keep fast hold of the
covenant-chain of friendship, which we have so lately repaired and strength-
ened. As you are now about to depart, we present you with some money to buy
clothes and necessaries, and pay your expenses, and we wish you a good jour-
ney, and bid you farewell.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, April 11, 1776.
A letter of the 7th, from general Putnam, at new-York, with Sundry papers
enclosed, was presented to Congress, and read.
Resolved, That an order for 10,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in
favour of Carpenter Wharton, commissary, for the use of the Pennsylvania
battalions, he to be accountable. #
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To lieutenant-colonel Zedwitz, for expenses in curing a wound received by
him in falling from the walls of Quebec, and his expenses from thence to Phila-
delphia, the sum of 255.6 dollars:
To John Hales, for carriage-hire, &c. for the commissioners going to Canada,
the sum of 223 dollars:
To Oliver Wolcott. esq. for his expenses in attending a treaty with the Six
Nations at Albany, the sum of 60 dollars : *
To Dr. Jonathan Potts, for attending the prisoners at Reading, the sum of
76.6 dollars; and for medicines, &c. provided for the troops in the middle
department, the sum of 134.6 dollars, amounting, together, to the sum of
211.2 dollars. , -
To the following persons for boarding, &c. gen. Lee’s guard, viz.
Richard Jacobs, the sum of 6.4 dols. Jacob Wyncoop, 13.6 dols.
William Staddleman, 7.4 Michael Gallagher, 1.8
William M*Dowell, 3.4 John Kerlin, 8.6
Lawrence Fegan, 8.4 Charles Stultz, 3.7
To captain Long, for so much advanced by him to captain John Nelson, of
one of the rifle companies, the sum of 10.7 dollars :
*
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 313
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That the committee of claims allow, for the support of the hostages
sent by general Schuyler from Tryon county, the sum of two dollars a week.
Resolved, That two new members be added to the cannon committee, in the
room of two who are absent:
The members chosen, Mr. Clinton, and Mr. Whipple.
Resolved, That the secret committee be 㺠to supply the delegates
of Maryland with one ton of powder, for the use of the inhabitants of the
Eastern Shore, in that colony.
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, be requested to
E. proper barracks or quarters for such of the continental troops, as may
e, from time to time, in the city of Philadelphia.
Resolved, That the commanding officer at New-York be directed to discharge
the militia of New-Jersey who are in the pay of the continent:
That the commanding officer at New-York be directed to discharge the
whole, or such parts of the militia of New-York and Connecticut, now in the
pay of the continent, as the public service will permit.
A petition from Eliphalet Dyer and William Williams, in behalf of the
colony of Connecticut, was presented to Congress and read, setting forth, that
the colony has advanced large sums of money for the continent over and
above what have been paid them ; that tho’ they have used their utmost dili-
gence, they have not yet been able to prepare a full state of their accounts to
lay before Congress, and as their treasury is exhausted, and the colony and the
public interest in danger of suffering for want of supplies, praying that the
Congress would advance to the colony the sum of fifty thousand pounds, law-
ful money, in part of their advances.
Resolved, That the sum of 166,666 2-3 dollars be advanced to the colony of
Connecticut, on account of their advances for the service of the continent, the
said colony to be accountable.
Captain White-Eyes being called in, the speech was delivered to him, and
the money paid.
Resolved, That fifty dollars be paid to Isaac Stille the interpreter.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the conventions and committees or
councils of safety of Virginia and North-Carolina, to provide for the mainten-
ance and security of such of the enemy as are made prisoners in their colonies,
agreeable to the regulations of Congress for the support of prisoners, and that
the expense thereof be defrayed by the continent.
Resolved, That a committee of ſhree be appointed to enquire into the truth
of the report respecting governor Tryon’s exacting an oath from persons go-
ing by the packet, and to ascertain the fact by affidavits taken before a chief
justice, or other chief magistrate.
The members chosen, Mr. Jay, Mr. Wythe, and Mr. Wilson.
Resolved, That the sum of thirty dollars be advanced to John Harkness, a
wounded soldier, who was dischargål at Cambridge without any pay.
Information being given that Mr. Hewes, a prisoner, has been defrauded of
a large quantity of goods,
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to enquire into the truth
of this matter, and report to Congress:
The members chosen, Mr. . Mr. Huntington, and Mr. Duane.
. The committee to whom the petition of John Secord was referred, brought
in their report, which was read.
Resolved. That it be recommended to the several assemblies, conventions,
and committees or councils of safety of the United Colonies, to use their best
$ndeavors in communicating to foreign nations the resolutions of Congress re-
lative to trade ^ º
Adjourned to ten o’clock to morrow.
VoI. I. 40
*-
314 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. *
FRIDAY, April 12, 1776.
A letter of the 21st March, from W. H. Drayton, president of the conven-
tion of South-Carolina, with a copy of the act of parliament prohibiting all
trade and commerce with the American colonies: also,
A letter of the 10th instant, from col. John Haslet, enclosing an account of
the engagement between the detachment of the Delaware battalion at Lewis,
and a tender of the Roebuck; also informing that another company is wanted
at Lewistown, and that he has ordered one to march thither, were laid before
Congress, and read:
Resolved, That the conduct of colonel Haslet, in ordering another company
to Lewistown, be approved.
The committee on qualifications having recommended James Hunter as a fit
person to fill the oldest vacancy of second lieutenant, and Joel Westcoat as a
suitable person to fill the second oldest vacancy of second lieutenant in the
third Pennsylvania battalion,
Resolved, That commissions be granted to them accordingly.
Resolved, That the treasurers be directed to pay Mr. Price, the sum of 16,000
dollars in specie, in part of the sum ordered to be advanced to him and Mr.
Haywood.
X petition from colonel James Easton was presented to Congress and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Duane, and Mr. Alexander.
Resolved, That the assemblies, conventions, and committees or councils of
safety of the colonies respectively, in which prisoners are or shall choose, or be
appointed to reside, be empowered to remove such prisoners from place to place
within the same colonies, as often as to such assemblies, conventions, or com-
mittees or councils of safety, respectively, it shall seem proper, having regard
to the former resolutions of Congress concerning prisoners.
Resolved, That Mr. Alexander be appointed a member of the marine com-
mittee, in the room of Mr. Chase, who is absent.
A memorial from the Scotch hostages was presented to Congress and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee of claims.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Henry Holler, for rifles and cash furnished to captain Nelson's company
of rifle-men, the sum of 364.8 dollars, to be charged to said company; and for
provisions for said company, the sum of 171.3 dollars; and for necessaries
provided for prisoners at Reading, 1203 dollars; and for his pay as quarter-
master in procuring provisions, 59 dollars; for provisions made for receiving
the prisoners from Johnstown, the sum of 240 dollars; for expresses and inci:
dental charges, the sum of 62.9 dollars; the whole amounting to 2101 dollars:
Ordered, That the same be paid.
, Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, April 18, 1776.
Itesolved, That an order for 20,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in
favor of James Mease, commissary, for the use of the Pennsylvania battalions,
he to be accountable.
Mr. Mease having º to Congress for advice how to conduct himself in
paying the sixth Pennsylvania battalion, *
Resolved, That the queries propounded by Mr. Mease, be referred to the
committee for procuring fire-arms.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
d º Robert Erwin, the balance of his account for wagon-hire, the sum of 436
Oligºſ S,
Ordered, That the same be paid.
§
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 315
*—- –-º
A petition from the committees of the townships of Walpack, Sandystone,
and Montague, in the county of Sussex, in New Jersey, was presented to Con-
gress and read: gº
Resolved, That the same be referred to the commissioners for Indian affairs,
who are members of Congress. f ſº
The committee appointed to prepare a resolution for the sale and consumption
of the teas now in these colonies, brought in the same, which was read and
agreed to as follows:
Whereas, by the third article of the association entered into by the late Con-
tinental Congress, at Philadelphia, on the 24th day of October, in the year of
our Lord, 1774, it was agreed, that, from that day, the inhabitants of the United
Colonies “would not purchase nor use any tea imported on account of the
East-India company, or any on which a duty had been or should be paid, and
from and after the first day of March then next following, they would not pur-
chase or use any East-India tea whatever:” And whereas, it has been repre-
sented to this Congress, that the time, as aforesaid limited for the consumption
of the tea then on hand, was too short; whereby many zealous friends to the
American cause, who had imported large quantities of that commodity, with
design not merely to advance their fortunes, but to counteract the plan then
pursued by the ministry, and India company, to introduce and sell in these
colonies tea subject to duty, are likely to become great sufferers; the greater
part of the estates of many of them being vested in that article, and they, by
that means, rendered incapable not only of paying their debts and maintaining
their families, but also of vigorously exerting themselves in the service of their
country: And whereas, it was originally the design of Congress, that all India
tea, which had been imported agreeable to the tenor of the said association,
º be sold and consumed, but the time limited for that purpose proving too
short ;
Resolved, That all India tea, imported as aforesaid, expressly excepting all
teas imported by or on account of the East-India company, now remaining on
hand in these colonies, be sold and used :
And whereas, from the future importation of tea being prohibited, some tea-
holders may be tempted to avail themselves of the scarcity which will be occa-
sioned by it, and exact exorbitant prices for an article of little real value in it-
self, and which owes its worth to a habit, in many respects, pernicious to the
inhabitants of these colonies, *
Resolved, therefore, That Bohea tea ought not to be sold by retail in the
smallest quantities, at a higher price, in any colony, than at the rate of three-
fourth parts of a dollar per pound; and other teas at such a price as shall be re-
gulated by the committees of the town or county where the tea is sold ; and
that all persons who shall either give or take a greater price for it, ought to be
considered as enemies to the American cause, and treated accordingly. And
it is earnestly recommended to all committees of inspection and observation,
as well to be vigilant in carrying this resolve into execution, as those which
prohibit the importation of India tea from any part of the world, it being the
desire of Congress to exclude all teas, except such as may make part of the
cargoes of prizes taken by ships of war or privateers belonging to these colo-
In 16S.
Aesolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to lieutenant-co-
lonel º one quarter cask of powder, to repay so much by him borrowed
for the use o the continent.
The committee appointed to prepare a letter to the committee of safety of
New-J ersey, brought in a draught, which being read, was agreed to:
tº ºrd. That the same be transcribed, signed by the president, and trans-
mitted.
The committee appointed to consider the representation and queries of James
*:
316 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
A *~
Mease, respecting the sixth battalion of troops commanded by colonel Irvine,
brought in their report, which was read : Whereupon,
Resolved, That the certificates of magistrates, or other respectable inhabitants
of the county of Cumberland, who have inspected and examined the companies
of the said battalion, shall, in this instance, justify the pay-master in paying
such companies, agreeable to the said certificates, the muster-master being ab-
sent:
That the supernumerary privates that have been inlisted, and are armed and
clothed, be continued and paid :
That the officers in the said battalion be paid for their subsistence since the
recruiting service has been over, at the rates used in other battalions:
That the claim of the ensign in captain Wilson’s company to pay and sub-
sistence from the time of entering into actual service, be allowed.
Resolved, That the marine committee be empowered to build two gallies, ca-
pº of carrying each two 36 or 42 pounders, to oppose the enemy’s vessels in
ays and harbors.
Resolved, That the committee for casting cannon be directed to contract for
ihe casting forty howitzers, with a sufficient quantity of shells.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the application of James
Hughes, late town-major of Montreal, and now one of the prisoners of the thir-
teen United Colonies, brought in their report, wherein they represent,
“That it appears to them that Mrs. Hughes, the wife of the said James
Hughes, on or about the 5th of February last, bargained with a certain Jabez
West, for divers goods and merchandise, in her possession, at Montreal, for
which the said West, as the said J. Hughes alleges, agreed to pay agg05 11 93,
sterling money of Great-Britain, and £151 19, Halifax currency, in gold and
silver, to said Hughes, within eighteen days from that time; upon which pay-
ment being made, the goods were to be delivered at Albany, to the said West,
by a certain John Stevenson, at Albany, to whom they were to be sent at the
expense of the said West: that the said West paid to the said Hughes 240 dol-
lars, in part; but it was, as the said Hughes alleges, agreed, that if the residue
of the money was not paid within the time limited, then the 240 dollars were
to be forfeited, and the goods not to be delivered ; that the goods arrived at Al-
bany, and were in the possession of Mr. Stevenson, who, on the 11th of March
last, by some means or other, was induced to deliver the goods to West, though
he paid no money; that the said West gave a bond to the said Stevenson, pay-
able to the said Hughes, for ag1609 188, continental currency, on the 9th of
April, instant, without any authority from the said Hughes, as he alleges; that
the said West proceeded with the goods, immediately on the receipt of them,
to some of the eastern colonies, and, it is apprehended, to Connecticut. Upon
the whole, the committee are of opinion, that the said Hughes may probably lose
his debt from West, without the interposition of Congress, or their permission
to him to go in pursuit of the said West:” Whereupon,
Resolved, That governor Trumbull, of the colony of Connecticut, be desired
to direct the most effectual method, according to law; to be taken, for securing
the person of Jabez West, or his effects, to the value of the debt due to James
Hughes, if either can be found in his government; and to see that justice be
done in the premises.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday next.
MONDAY, April 15, 1776.
A letter of the 4th from general Washington, enclosing a letter from gov-
ernor Cooke, and an account of the powder supplied the army at Cambridge,
by the colony of Massachusetts-Bay, from the 10th of June last; also, a letter
of the 2d from general Schuyler, with eight papers enclosed, being laid before
Congress, and read,
* Journals of congress, 1776. - 317
A.
Resolved, That the said letters, with the papers enclosed, be referred to
Mr. Wythe, Mr. Harrison, and Mr. S. Adams.
The committee to whom the petition from the committees of Walpack, &c.
was referred, brought in their report, which was agreed to: Whereupon,
Resolved, That an order be drawn, by the chairman of the secret committee,
upon Henry Wisner, esq. in favor of the petitioners, for 200lb. of powder,
they paying for the same :
hat 1000 flints be delivered to the petitioners:
That the petitioners be desired to send Garret Broadhead, esq. to the near-
est Indian settlement, in order to discover whether any uneasiness subsists
among the Indians in that part of the country; and, if it subsists, from what
cause it arises:
That a letter be written by the president of the Congress to general Schuy-
ler, to inform him of the apprehension of the inhabitants on the western boun-
daries of New-Jersey from the Indians, to request him to direct proper en-
quiries to be made, whether there be any foundation for such apprehensions.
The Congress, taking into consideration the report of the committee on the
petition of John'secord.
Resolved, That a certified copy of the said petition be transmitted to the
overnor of Connecticut; that he be requested to cause enquiry to be made
into the truth of the facts therein stated; and, if found true, that it be recom-
mended to him to cause restitution to be made to the petitioner.
Resolved, That it be again recommended to the settlers at Wyoming and
the Susquehanna river, as well those under Pennsylvania as those under Con-
necticut, to cultivate harmony, to consider themselves as jointly interested in
the event of the American cause, and not, by mutual acts of violence or op-
pression, to injure that union that happily subsists between all the colonies,
and on which their welfare so much depends.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to supply the inhabitants
: Monmouth county, in New-Jersey, with 300lb. of powder, they paying for
the same.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to bring in a resolution,
whereby persons resident, having property in America, who assist any of the
enemies of the United Colonies in the capture of vessels or goods, may be made
liable to make good the damages to the sufferers:
SThe members chosen, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Jay, and Mr. Wythe.
A petition from Moses Kirkland, a prisoner, was presented to Congress,
and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee on prisoners.
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on
the ways and means of supplying the troops in Canada;
Whereupon, Resolved, That Mr. R. Morris be directed to purchase bills of
exchange to the amount of three thousand pounds sterling, and deliver the same
to Mr. Price; and that Mr. Morris be indemnified for any loss that may arise
from endorsing them: º
That the sum of 13,333.3 dollars be advanced to Mr. Price, to be employed
by him in the service of the continent, in Canada, he to be accountable.
Resolved, That the officers of the rifle battalion, and independent rifle com-
panies, be authorized and directed to recruit the said battalion and companies,
and inlist the men as speedily as possible; and that their re-inlistment be for
two years from the expiration of their present term, liable to be discharged
sooner, if Congress .. think proper, upon receiving a month’s pay advance.
A petition from Thomas Leaming, jun, in behalf of the committee of inspec-
tion for the county of Cape-May, was presented to Congress and read, setting
forth the defenceless state of that part of the country, and praying for a sup:
§ of powder and lead, and that two companies of the continental forces may
e stationed there.
3.18 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
|
... Resolved, That the prayer of the petition be granted.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, April 16, 1776.
A letter of the 9th from commodore E. Hopkins, enclosing a list of the can-
mon and stores brought from Providence; and a letter of the 14th from the
committee of Baltimore, enclosing copies of intercepted letters from the secre-
tary of state to governor Eden; also, a letter of the 8th from general Thomas,
were laid before Congress, and read. *
Ordered, That the secretary publish an extract of the letter from commo-
dore Hopkins.
The Congress, taking into consideration the letter from the committee of
Baltimore, and the papers enclosed, came to the following resolutions:
Whereas information has been this day laid before Congress, from which
there is great reason to believe, that Robert Eden, esq. governor of Maryland,
has lately carried on a correspondence with the British ministry, highly dan-
gerous to the liberties of America;
Resolved, therefore, That the council of safety of Maryland be earnestly re-
quested, immediately to cause the person and papers of governor Eden to be
seized and secured, and such of the papers as relate to the American dispute,
without delay, conveyed safely to Congress; and that copies of the intercepted
letters from the secretary of state, be enclosed to the said council of safety.
Resolved, That the council of safety of Maryland be requested to cause the
person and papers of Alexander Ross to be immediately seized and secured,
and that the papers be sent safely to Congress.
And to prevent the said Alexander Ross having any opportunity to escape,
ſº That the like request be made to the committees ...
for Baltimore and Frederick counties in Maryland, in one of which counties
the said Alexander Ross probably now is.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Isaac Melchior, for expenses from Montreal to Philadelphia, including
a part of St. Luke La Corne’s expenses to Albany, the sum of 34.7 dollars:
To Leonard Melchior, for boarding MºDonald twenty days, the sum of 16
dollars:
To William Chew, for riding express to North-Carolina and back, in-
cluding ferriages, the sum of 90 dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to
J. Hughes, esq.
To Samuel Purviance, jun, the sum of 133.8 dollars, money advanced by
colonel Charles Beaty to captain James Grier, and that the same ought to be
aid, and charged to the said James Grier :
To Anthony Tricker for boarding Donald MºDonald, and others of the Scots
prisoners, taken by general Schuyler, near Johnstown, the sum of 150 dollars:
To Peletiah, Webster, for purchasing goods for the continent, including
some incidental charges, the sum of 66.3 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to supply the inhabitants
of Monmouth county with 500 flints.
The Congress proceeded to the election of a clerk or assistant to the audi-
tor-general :
Mr. William Webb was elected.
A letter of the 15th from H. Beaumont, surgeon of the 26th regiment, was
laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee on prisoners.
Resolved, That the sum of 1000 dollars be paid to Messrs. Price and
hº in consideration of their extraordinary services in Canada.
hereas much inconvenience may be derived to the public from commit-
\
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 319
W.
–4 -a- -
—-r
tees, others than the committee of safety in each colony, on the public post roads,
stopping and opening the mails, and detaining letters from the constitutional
OSt ;
p Resolved, That no committee but the council or committee of safety in each
colony, or such persons as they shall, on extraordinary occasions, authorize,
shall stop the constitutional post, open the mail, or detain any letters there-
from.
Resolved, That the president write to commodore Hopkins, and direct him
to send a complete list and state of the stores taken and brought from Provi-
dence, with the sizes of the cannon, &c. and, in case he should have left New-
London, that governor Trumbull be desired to order a list of the stores left at
New-London by commodore Hopkins, to be made out, and transmitted to
Congress.
#esolved, That the cannon and such other of the stores as are not necessary
for the fleet, be landed and left at New-London, and that such of the cannon
and wheels as governor Trumbull shall direct, may be employed for the defence
of that harbor, during the pleasure of Congress.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, April 17, 1776.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To John Avery, jun. for riding express from commodore Hopkins and back
again, the sum of 40.7 dollars.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Resolved, That the marine committee be instructed to recommend to Con-
gress, proper persons for commission officers for the frigates now building,
and that the warrant officers be appointed by the said committee; and that
they fit said frigates for sea with j :
That the marine committee recommend to Congress proper persons to be
agents for prizes in the several colonies:
That a bounty of eight dollars be allowed by the public to the owner of every
American vessel for every able seaman that he shall import into the United
Colonies, over and above the number the said vessel carried out; and that fo–
reigners importing able seamen over and above the ship’s company, and dis-
charging them in the American ports, shall be entitled to the same bounty.
Resolved, That the nomination or appointment of captains or commanders
of continental vessels shall not establish rank, which is to be settled by Con-
gress before commissions are granted.
The Congress having proceeded to the election of captains for the two fri-
gates building in Mºj
William Manly and Isaac Cozneau, were elected.
Resolved. That the secret committee be empowered to give orders for the
arming and manning abroad any of the ships or vessels employed in the importa-
tion of cargoes for the continental account; the expenses and charges of such
armaments to be paid by the said committee; they receiving for the public
Service, on the arrival of every vessel, all the arms, ammunition, and stores.
Resolved, That the secret committee be empowered to import cargoes of
salt on the continental account, in such ships or vessels as they employ to
carry outward cargoes, and are obliged to insure on their return.
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to
permit John, Young, jun. and Johnson Smith, to carry to Virginia, all such
arms as they have already purchased, or shall purchase in Pennsylvania, for the
use of the continental army in the said colony of Virginia, before the first day
of May next; not to exceed one thousand stand in the whole.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to supply Mr. Thomas

i. with 200 lb. of powder, for the militia of Cape May, he paying for
€ Saſſle,
320 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That the commanding officer at New-York, be directed to order
two companies of colonel Dayton's battalion to march to Cape-May, and there
to remain till farther orders. *ºs
Resolved, That the petition of Dr. Jackson be referred to the committee of
claims.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, April 18, 1776.
A letter of the 15th from general Washington; and,
A letter of the 7th of November last, from the Rev. Samuel Langdon, ac-
companied with a letter from general Putnam, and colonels Glover, Bridge,
Fry, and Prescot; also,
A letter from James Warren, esq. pay-master-general, desiring leave to
resign, were laid before Congress and read:
Resolved, That the said letters be referred to a committee of three :
The members chosen, Mr. Read, Mr. Clinton, and Mr. Braxton.
A letter from Elizabeth Seymour, widow of the late master of the Cabot,
was laid before Congress, and read: *
Resolved, That it be referred to the marine committee.
Resolved, That the committee on Indian affairs be directed to prepare, and
report a draught of instructions to George Morgan, esq. agent under the com-
missioners for Indian affairs in the middle department.
A letter of the 6th, from brigadier-general Lewis, and a letter of the same
date, from major-general Lee, being received and read, were referred to Mr.
Read, Mr. Clinton, and Mr. Braxton.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Dr. Samuel Treate, for medicine, and for attending the troops at Bur-
lington, the sum of 273.7 dollars:
To John Bull, esq. for expenses in conducting money to the camp at Cam-
bridge, the sum of 155 dollars:
To Jacob Ming, for wagonage, the sum of 107.5 dollars.
To Robert Kennedy, for necessaries furnished captain Morgan’s company,
the sum of 544 dollars, of which sum, 189.2, being for rifles, shirts, &c. to be
charged to the said company: *
To Thaddeus Burr, for money paid by him for horse-hire, &c. the sum of
37.2 dollars, which ought to be charged to Jacob Hiltzheimer, express-master:
To sundries, on certificates produced by Thomas Johnson, esq. for provi-
sions, &c. for general Lee’s guard, the sum of 10. 7 dollars and for a #. de-
livered to captain Cressop's company, to be charged to the said company, the
sum of 10.6 dollars:
To Jane Allen, for necessaries to several companies of continental troops,
the sum of 52.9 dollars, of which sum 40 dollars ought to be charged to the first
Pennsylvania battalion, and deducted from the commissary’s account:
To Dr. Hall Jackson, for his services as surgeon, the sum of 130 dollars, and
that the same ought to be paid to Elbridge Gerry, esq. ,
To William Smith, for medicines, instruments, &c. for the Delaware batta-
lion, the sum of 257.4 dollars:
To Timothy Shallor, for expenses in bringing prisoners from Egg-Harbour,
the sum of 37.5 dollars, *
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid,
The marine committee having recommended gentlemen for captains of the
Hornet and Wasp, Congress proceeded to an election, and the ballots being
taken, and examined, - A.
William Hallock was elected captain of the Hornet; and,
Alexander captain of the Wasp.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 321
\
The committee appointed to consider the propriety of establishing 3. Wallº-
office, brought in their report, which was read.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. *w-
FRIDAY, April 19, 1776.
A letter of the 2d from governor Trumbull, with a petition from Noah Phelps
being laid before Congress, and read,
Resolved, That they be referred to the committee on qualifications.
Resolved, That a committee of seven be appointed to examine and ascer-
tain the value of the several species of gold and silver coins, current in these
colonies, and the proportions they ought to bear to Spanish milled dollars:
The members chosen, Mr. Duane, Mr. Wythe, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Sherman,
Mr. Hewes, Mr. Johnson, and Mr. Whipple.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Peter Brunner, for necessaries furnished to captain Nelson’s company by
himself and Abraham Vanhorn, the sum of 25.2 dollars, which ought to be
charged to captain Nelson :
To Mary Miller, for provisions, &c. furnished to general Lee’s guard, the
sum of 16.5 dollars:
To Jacob Frantz, for horse-hire, and carrying brigadier-general Woedtke’s
baggage to New York, the sum of 47.5 dollars:
ărărcă, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That letters which are directed to any general in the continental
service, commanding in a separate department, be carried free of postage, by
the constitutional post.
The committee appointed to prepare instructions to George Morgan, esq.
brought in a draught, which being read, was agreed to as follows:
To George Morgan, esq. agent under the commissioners for Indian affairs in the middle department.
SIR,
You are required to *. that the great belt presented to the Indians
last fall at Pittsburg, be forwarded, with all convenient expedition, to the sa-
chems and warriors of the western nations, and endeavor, to the utmost of your
power, to convince them of the good wishes and good intentions of Congress
for and towards them, and to cultivate harmony and friendship between them
and the white people ; and to give Congress the most early intelligence of any
interruption thereof, or of any disturbance which shall arise, and which you can-
not quiet. *
Acquaint the Indians that Congress have formed the best plan they could
devise to import foreign goods for their use, and have neglected no probable
means to procure them in time; and if they should not be supplied so soon as
they may be wanted, the misfortune is to be ascribed to the common enemies of
them and us, who, by obstructing our trade, as well as in numberless other in-
stances, are daily injuring and distressing both ; but that we have well grounded
hopes of speedy relief, in expectation of which, and of greater advantages in
prospect, the present inconveniencies are borne more patiently.
All differences and disputes that shall happen between the Indians and white
people, you will have adjusted and determined in the mode prescribed by a re-
solve of Congress, of which you have a copy; and you are directed, in a parti-
ºular manner, to prevent, as much as you are able, any impositions upon the
former by those who deal with them. Treat all those people, with whom you
may meet, kindly and hospitably. Inspire them with sentiments of justice and
humanity, and dispose them to introduce the arts of civil and social fife, and to
encourage the residence of husbandmen and handicraft men among them. Ad-
Wise Congress, from time to time, of all occurrences that may, in your opinion,
deserve their attention. º
Vol. I. 41
322 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
The committee to whom gen, Washington’s letter of the 15th inst as well
as other letters, were referred, brought in their report, which being taken into
consideration, was agreed to : Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Washington may order as many of the cannon and
military stores as are not necessary for the continental fleet, and which were
lately brought into New-London, by the commander thereof, to any other place
he may think proper; having regard only to the permission of Congress rela-
tive to the defence of the harbor of New-London, a copy of which ought to be
sent to general Washington, and also a list of the cannon and stores as trans-
mitted to Congress. *
Resolved, That the resignation of James Warren, as pay-master general of
the army, be accepted and entered accordingly ; and that he be informed there
are superintendents of the treasury appointed, to whom he is to render his ac-
counts and vouchers.
Resolved, That another pay-master general be appointed, and that the general
be informed thereof. &
As it appears from the certificates of four colonels of regiments at Cambridge,
that the reverend Dr. Samuel Langdon did not only perform the duty of a
chaplain to their several regiments, for the space of six months, for which no
other chaplain had been appointed, but also to the army at large : Therefore,
Resolved, That the said Dr. Langdon, having received no compensation for
those services, be paid the sum of 300 dollars.
Resolved, That three tons of powder be immediately forwarded to Virginia,
for the use of the army in the southern department.
Resolved, That general Washington be made acquainted with general Lee’s
request of a company of artillery, and be desired to furnish him with such a
company, if it may be done consistent with the general good of the service.
Resolved, That an immediate supply of arms, shoes, and blankets, be furnish-
ed for the troops in Virginia, and that proper persons be appointed to procure
them, subject to the orders of Congress already entered into.
Resolved, That Mr. Ephraim Blaine be appointed to purchase a quantity of
blankets not exceeding 5,000, and also that he be directed to purchase 5,000
pair of shoes, to be sent to Virginia, to the commanding officer at Williams-
burgh. *
fººd. That Monday next be assigned for the election of a pay-master ge-
YıCrâ.1.
Resolved, That Mr. Thomas Lowry, commissary, be directed to purchase
and forward to general Schuyler, with all convenient despatch, 2,000 barrels of
pork, for the use of the army in Canada, and that he be supplied with a sum
not exceeding 20,000 dollars for that purpose, he to be accountable.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to confer with Mr. Price be direct
ed to bring in a resolution to enable Messrs. Price and Haywood to draw for
the balance of the money ordered to be paid them by the resolutions of the 3d
and 16th of this month. *
Itesolved, That Messrs. Du Montesson, Hevieux, La Marque, Du Massaux,
Shemit, Giasson, and Gamelin, Canadian prisoners, at Bristol, be permitted to
come to Philadelphia in order to purchase clothes and other necessaries, and to
remain there ten days, and then return to Bristol.
The committee to whom were referred the letter from general Washington, of
the 4th, and the letter from general Schuyler, of the 2d of this month, brought
in their report.
The committee on prisoners, having collected from the journals the several
resolutions, respecting prisoners, and having made some amendments therein,
submitted the same to Congress.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 323
MONDAY, April 22, 1776.
Sundry letters, received since the adjournment, were laid before Congress,
and read, viz.
One from the committee of safety of Maryland, dated the 18th.
One from Dr. Boyd of the 19th.
One from the committee of inspection of Lancaster, of the 11th.
One from the Canada commissioners, dated Saratoga, the 13th.
One from general Washington, of the 19th.
One from general Schuyler, of the 12th, enclosing sundry letters and papers
from Canada; and,
One from the committee of inspection of West-Augusta, with sundry pa-
pers enclosed.
Resolved, That the four last, with the papers enclosed, be referred to Mr.
R. H. Lee, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Jay, Mr. Braxton, and Mr. Johnson.
Resolved, That the consideration of the letter from the committee of safety
of Maryland, be postponed till to-morrow. te
The committee appointed to prepare a resolve respecting Messrs. Price and
Haywood, brought in the same : Whereupon, g
Resolved, That Messrs. Price and Haywood be empowered to draw bills of
exchange on the president of Congress, for the sum of 48,358.6 dollars, pay-
able the 5th of July next, in specieſ; it being the balance of a sum specified in
a resolve of the 3d of April instant, after deducting 16,000 dollars, for which
they received an order on the treasurers the 12th. And they are further em-
powered to draw bills as aforesaid, for 1000 dollars, ordered to be paid thern
by a resolve of the 6th instant.
Resolved, That the commissioners gone to Canada, be desired and empow-
ered to settle the accounts of Messrs. Price and Haywood, to the 5th of Fe-
bruary last, or to employ proper persons to examine the same, and compare
the vouchers with the several articles of said accounts, and return a certificate
to Congress of the balance justly due to Messrs. Price and Haywood, from the
United Colonies, to that date, with the vouchers for expenditures and supplies
by orders of general Montgomery and general Wooster.
Resolved, That the said commissioners be requested to return to Congress,
a list of such persons as are accountable to the United Colonies for any part of
the articles or expenditures comprised in Messrs. Price and Haywood’s ac-
counts, with the respective sums such persons are chargeable with, and Adeliver
copies thereof to the commanding officers, that the proper deductions may be
made from the pay of the officers and men.
Resolved, That an order for 1000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favor of Mr. Samuel Fairlamb, for the use of colonel Wayne's battalion, he to
be accountable.
The committee on qualifications,having recommended Mr. Jacob Weaver, to
an ensigncy which is vacant in the third Pennsylvania battalion:
Resolved. That he be appointed, and that a commission be accordingly
granted to him.
The several matters referred to this day, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, April 23, 1776.
A letter of the 12th, from major-general Ward, being received and read, re-
peating his desire for leave to resign, &
Resolved. That the resignation of major-general Ward, and of brigadier ge-
neral Fry, be accepted, and that the president inform them thereof by letter.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due, §
To Robert Erwin for wagonage, the sum of 873.8 dollars:
324 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. '
--~~~-dº
r —-ºff
To John Dunn, the balance in full due to colonel Heard’s battalion, for their
#. subsistence, &c. on the expedition to Long-Island, the sum of 2453.7
Ol] at S.
Ordered, That the same be paid. *
The marine committee having, agreeably to the orders of Congress, recom-
mended gentlemen to be agents for prizes in the several colonies,
Resolved, That captain John Bradford be appointed for the colony of Mas-
sachusetts-Bay, Daniel Tillinghast for Rhode-Island, Nathaniel Shaw, jun.
for Connecticut, Jacobus Vanzantz for New-York, John Nixon, and John Max-
well Nesbit for Pennsylvania, William Lux for Maryland, John Tazewell for
Virginia, Cornelius Harnet for Wilmington, Richard Ellis for Newbern, and
Robert Smith for Edenton in North Carolina, with power to each, to appoint
one or more deputies, if necessary.
The committee, to whom the letters from general Washington, general
Schuyler, and the letters from Canada and Pittsburg were referred, brought
in their report, which was taken into consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the president signify to colonel Hazen, the approbation of
Congress, for his letter, and attention to the public good.
Resolved, That 300,000 dollars be imº, sent to general Schuyler,
for supplying and paying the army in Canada.
Resolved, "That the commissioners of Congress in Canada, be desired to pub-
lish an address to the people of Canada, signifying, that Congress has been
informed of injuries offered by our people to some of them: expressing our
resentment at such misconduct, assuring them of our attachment to their se-
curity; inviting them to state their grievances to our commissioners, and
promising ample redress to them, and exemplary punishment to the offenders.
Resolved, That instructions be sent to the commissioners, to cause justice to
be done to the Canadians, agreeable to the tenor of the above resolve.
Resolved, That the commanding officer in Canada, be directed to be very at-
tentive to military discipline, and inflict exemplary punishment on all those
who violate the military regulations established by Congress.
Resolved, That general Washington be directed to send six battalions into
Canada from the army of New-York.
Resolved, That a letter be written by the president to general Washington,
requesting his opinion whether any farther additional troops are necessary to
be sent for the reduction of Quebec, and for the security of Canada; and, if he
shall think, more troops necessary, whether they can, with safety, be spared
from the army now in K.
Resolved, That if any of the troops from New-Jersey or Pennsylvania, which
were raised at five dollars a month, be sent to Canada, they shall be allowed
at the rate of six dollars and two-thirds of a dollar a month, from the time they
begin their march.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be postponed till to-
morrow. ,
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, April 24, 1776. ,
A memorial from the committee of inspection and observation of the city and
liberties of Philadelphia, was presented to Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of three :
The members chosen, Mr. Hewes, Mr. Duane, and Mr. Alexander.
Mr. R. Morris reported, that in pursuance of the order of Congress, he has
purchased and delivered to Mr. James Price, bills of exchange to the amount of
three thousand pounds sterling, for which he produced Mr. Price's receipt.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 325
–º-
Resolved, That an order for 14,800 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, ia
favor of Mr. R. Morris, in full for the above bills of exchange.
Resolved, That the committees appointed to confer with Mr. Price, be di-
rected to draw up instructions to him, for his government, in disposing and
laying out the money put into his hands.
Resolved, That Mr. Trumbull, the commissary-general, be directed to pro-
vide and forward to general Schuyler, 2000 barrels of pork, with all possible
despatch, for the use of the continental army in Canada, and that the said com-
missary be supplied with a sum not exceeding 20,000 dollars for that purpose,
he to be accountable for the same.
Resolved, That Mr. Alsop, Mr. Sherman, and Mr. Lewis be requested to
purchase and forward, with all convenient despatch, to general Schuyler, for
the use of the continental army in Canada, 10,000 pair of shoes, 10,000 pair
of stockings; and that 15,000 dollars be advanced to them for those purposes,
they to be accountable.
Resolved, That a letter be written to general Schuyler, to inform him of the
ten additional battalions lately ordered for Canada, and of the 2000 barrels
of pork, and the 10,000 pair of shoes, and 10,000 pair of stockings, ordered by
Congress to be sent to him; and to desire him to pursue the best means for
furnishing such other necessary articles of clothing and food as may be want-
ing for the continental army in Canada, having regard to such of these as Mr.
|Price, the commissary in that province, can supply there: Also, that general
Schuyler be desired to inform the president, what quantity of gun-powder he
has received for Canada since the first of January last, and that he continue,
as hitherto, to give the earliest notice to Congress of the occasion for-further
suppliès of this and other necessaries that may be wanting, and not in his pow-
er to procure.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to forward from Mr. Wis-
mer’s and Mr. Livingston’s powder-mills, five tons of powder, to general Schuy-
ler, to be by him forwarded to Canada. **
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To John Gibson, agent appointed by the commissioners for Indian affairs,
for sundry services in the middle department, by order of the commissioners,
the sum of 377.9 dollars: w
To John Davis, for wagonage for the 6th Pennsylvania battalion, the sum
of 60 dollars:
To Furman and Ifunt, for provisions, &c. for the prisoners at Trenton, the
sum of 183.8 dollars:
To Duncan M*Donald, the sum of 15.8 dollars, of which sum, 13.6 dollars
ought to be charged to captain Hendrick’s company, and 2.2 dollars to captain
Cluggage’s company, for goods furnished to the said companies; and that the
same ought to be paid to Ephraim Blaine, esq.
To Margaret Smith, for nursing two men in the small pox, belonging to cap-
tain Benezet's company, the sum of 24 dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The convention of South-Carolina having appointed delegates to represent
that colony in Congress, the credentials of their appointment were presented
to Congress, and read, as follows:
“IN Congress, CHARLEston, South-CARolina, February 16, 1776.
Resolved, That Thomas Lynch, John Rutledge, Edward Rutledge, Arthur
Middleton, and Thomas Heyward, jun, esqrs. be, and they are hereby ap-
pointed and fully authorized, to represent this colony in the Continental Con-
gress, for one year next ensuing.
JMarch 23, 1776.
Resolved, That the delegates of this colony in the Continental Congress, or
a majority of such of them as shall at any time be presentin the said Congress,
336 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1778.
or any one of the said delegates, if no more than one shall be present, be, and
they and he are, and is, hereby authorized and empowered, for and in behalf
of this colony, to concert, agree to, and execute every measure, which they
or he, together with a majority of the Continental Congress, shall judge neces-
sary for the defence, security, interest, and welfare of this colony in particular,
and of America in general.
Resolved, That another delegate be forthwith chosen by ballot by this Con-
gress, to represent this colony in the Continental Congress, in addition to, and
with as full powers, in all respects, as the delegates already chosen, have, and
are invested with. The Congress then proceeded to ballot for said delegate,
and Thomas Lynch, jun, esq. appearing to be, and being declared, duly chosen,
Resolved, That Thomas Lynch, jun. esq. be, and he is hereby, appointed a
sixth delegate from this colony, to represent the same in the Continental
Congress.
A true copy, ºr
PETER TIMOTHY, Secretary.”
The Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
consideration general Washington’s letter of the 27th of March, and after
some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison
reported, that the committee have had under consideration the letter referred
to them, but not having come to any determination thereon, desired him to
move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee of
the whole, to take into their farther consideration, the letter from general
Washington of the 27th of March, and the petition enclosed therein.
The other matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, April 25, 1776.
Two letters from general Washington, of the 22d and 23d, were laid before
Congress, and read:
Resolved, That they be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. J. Adams, and Mr. Hewes.
Resolved, That an order for 2000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in fa-
vour of Ephraim Blaine, esq. for the purpose of purchasing shoes and blankets
for the continental troops in Virginia; he to be accountable.
The committee on qualifications having recommended Thomas Holland to
be a second-lieutenant in the Delaware battalion, in the room of James
* deceased, and John Corse, ensign, in the room of Thomas
Hollan {
resºlved, That commissions be granted to them accordingly.
The committee, to whom the petition of Noah Phelps, was referred, brought
in their report, which was agreed to ; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the committee of inspection of the city of Albany, be re-
quested to adjust Mr. Noah Phelps's account of services performed at Ticon-
deroga; and that Mr. Noah Phelps be allowed and paid for his further services,
including those of contractor from the time of his joining general Montgomery,
at the rate of one dollar for each day, until he quitted the service, and an equi-
valent to a captain’s rations during the said time, provided he has not already
had them; the latter account to be settled by general Schuyler, who is request-
ed to pay to the said Noah Phelps, what may appear to be due to him for the
whole of his services aforesaid.
The committee, to whom the letter from lord Sterling, of the 10th of March
last, with the papers therein enclosed, was referred, brought in their report,
which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
f
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 327
On application from the committee of Lower Pennsneck, in the county of
Salem, in New-Jersey,
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell to the said commit
tee, 75lb. of gun-powder.
Resolved, That a copy of the intercepted letter from John Butler, at Nia-
gara, dated the 29th of February, be sent to general Schuyler.
Resolved, That a copy of the report of the committee appointed to enquire
into the truth and foundation of the story, “That the Hndians have been invit-
ed by governor Penn to come to pº be sent to general Schuyler;
and that general Schuyler be directed to cause the person to be arrested, who
pretended to have carried such invitation to the Indians.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
For the expenses of general Lee's guard, the sum of 10.8 dollars, and that
the same º: to be paid to Timothy Matlack:
On a draught drawn by Ephraim Blaine, esq. on the commissioners for In-
dian affairs in the middle department, in favour of Samuel Semple, the sum of
77 dollars, for expenses of the said commissioners, and that the said sum ought
to be paid to Robert Miller, esq. of the county of Cumberland:
For the subsistence of A. Hill Brice, captain of the 7th regiment of foot, of
royal fusileers, the sum of 39.5 dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to
Thomas M'Kean, esq. and charged to the said captain :
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Agreeable to the order of the day, Congress resolved itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into their farther consideration, the letter from general
Washington of the 27th March last, and the papers therein enclosed; and, after
sometime, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the
committee had come to a resolution on the matters referred to them, which he
read, and delivered in.
The report being again read,
Resolved, That the consideration thereof be postponed.
Information being given to Congress, that Allan Cameron, who is confined
in gaol, is in such a state of health as to require the attendance of a physician,
and that he is desirous of the assistance of Dr. Cadwallader: *f 3.
Resolved, That Dr. Cadwallader have leave to attend him.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, April 26, 1776.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to settle and pay to the
colony of Connecticut, the powder lent by the said colony to general Washing.
ton, for the use of the continent, and to act as they shall judge best for the pub-
lic Service, and the benefit of Connecticut, in exchanging the powder which the
said Colony has in Philadelphia, for powder in the eastern ports belonging to the
continent. * -> ****
Resolved, That 50,000 dollars be sent to the committee of safety of Virginia,
and that the president write to the said committee, and request them to use
their utmost endeavors to have it exchanged for specie, and remit the same to
the 80mtinental treasurers; and, in case they can procure more specie, that they
send it, and draw for the amount on the pay-master in Virginia, who is ordered
to pay such draughts.
Resolved, That the sum of 250,000 dollars be sent to the pay-master in
Wirginia, for the use of the continental troops, he to be accountable.
A letter from Dr. Cadwallader was laid before Congress, and read, giving
an ººcoºnt of...A. Cameron's state of health: Whereupon,
Itesolved, That the said A. Cameron be allowed the benefit of air in his
room, and of walking an hour every morning in the yard, in company or pre-
3:38 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
/
*a
sence of the gaoler, and that his uncle, Dr. M'Clean, from New-York, who is .
now in town, be allowed to converse with him in presence of the gaoler.
Edmund Randolph, who was appointed deputy muster-master general of the
southern department, having been chosen by the citizens of Williamsburg, to
represent then in convention, and an ordinance having been passed, excluding
all persons holding any military post of profit from a seat therein, begged leave
to resign his office:
Resºlved, That the resignation of Mr. Randolph be accepted. * te
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to take into consideration
the state of the eastern department, and report thereon:
The members chosen, Mr. Rutledge, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Har-
rison, and Mr. Duane.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due, •.
To Dr. Robert Johnson, for attendance on the 6th battalion, and for medi-
cines, the sum of 53.1 dollars. f
Ordered, That the said account be paid. '
The committee, to whom the letters from general Washington of the 22d
and 23d instant, were referred, brought in their report, which was taken into
consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the pay of the aids-de-camp of the commander in chief, be
raised to forty dollars a month. g
Resolved, That none of the troops already raised, be, for the present, dis;
banded for want of arms; and that the general apply to the convention, and
committee of safety of New-York, for such arms, as may have been collected
under the resolve of Congress, for disarming non-associators and disaffected
ersons, or any other arms they can supply, and that they be delivered to the
ew-York troops.
Resolved, That Mr. Baldwin, the assistant engineer, ordered to Canada, be
allowed, in consideration of his merit, the pay and rank of lieutenant-colonel
on the continental establishment.
Resolved, That the respective governments from whence militia have come.
for the defence of the city of New-York, be desired speedily to transmit to
Congress, authenticated muster-rolls, and accounts of monies due to such res-
pective militias, in order to their being immediately settled and discharged.
Resolved, That Congress approve the assistance given by the general to com-
modore Hopkins.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be postponed till to-
tº OrroV,
Congress then took into consideration the report of the committee on the
petition of colonel James Easton: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the claims of the persons concerned in the surprize and re-
duction of the fortress of Ticonderoga, having already been submitted by
Congress to the committee of Albany, the petitioner be referred to the said
committee of Albany for a settlement of his demand on that account.
As from the testimonials produced by the petitioner, it appears—that he and
his battalion behaved with great diligence, activity, and spirit in the successful
enterprize against general Prescot, and the vessels and troops under his com-
mand, in the river Sorell, in which important service they were joined by
colonel Bedel and a part of his regiment—that to encourage the party employed
in that important service, the late general Montgomery promised them all the
public stores which should be taken in the vessels under general Prescot's com-
mand, excepting ammunition and provisions; and, as the petitioner alleges
that no part of those stores was delivered, nor any composition made to the
troops concerned in the acquisition; Therefore,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the general commanding in Canada,
to appoint commissioners to estimate all the public stores taken with general
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776, 329
i
Prescot, (excepting ammunition and provisions) and pay the value thereof among
the officers and men employed in that service, in such proportions as the com-
missioners shall determine.
As the petitioner’s account of monies received, and disbursements made by
him for the use of his regiment, on which he claims a balance, can, for want of
proper vouchers and information here, only be adjusted in Canada, where the
business was transacted,
Resolved, That the same be referred for settlement in such mode as the
commissioners from Congress, in that province, shall direct; but, as the peti-
tioner is in want of money,
Resolved, That 200 dollars be advanced to him in part of his demand against
the United Colonies.
With regard to the petitioner’s request, that a court of enquiry may be called
respecting the charge against him and major Brown, for plundering the effects
of the prisoners:—As brigadier-general Arnold in his letter of the 1st of Fe-
bruary last alleges, that the petitioner and major Brown had been publicly
accused of plundering the off. baggage, taken at Sorell, contrary to the
articles of capitulation, and to the great scandal of the American arms; for
which reason, he declared it to be his opinion, that it would give great disgust
to the army in general, if either of them should be promoted until these matters
were cleared up; and, as the petitioner asserts his innocence, declaring that
he neither plundered, nor directed, nor was privy to the plundering of any
prisoner or other person whatever: considering, therefore, on one hand, the
aggravated nature of this charge, which is an impediment to the petitioner’s
romotion, and, on the other, the great confidence reposed in him by general
ontgomery, and the essential service which the petitioner has rendered to
his country:
Resolved, That the commissioners from Congress, in Canada, be instructed
to cause enquiry to be made by a court-martial, or otherwise, into the charge
against the petitioner, giving him an opportunity of making his defence; and
that the proceedings thereon be transmitted to Congress, in order that justice
may be done to the petitioner, if he has been accused without sufficient reason.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, April 27, 1776.
Resolved, That an order for 350 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in favor
of Mr. Edy; of which 250 for himself, and 100 for Isaiah Beaudreau, for ser-
vices done. \
Sundry letters and papers from North-Carolina were laid before Congress
and read, viz. *
An affidavit respecting the capture of W. Ginn's brig.
. A letter from Samuel Johnson, president of the convention, dated the 10th
instant, enclosing sundry resolves of the said convention, and an extract of
a letter from brigadier-general Moore.
Resolved, That the afidavit be delivered to the secret committee:
That the other papers be referred to a committee of three:
The members chosen, Mr. Duane, Mr. Sherman, and Mr. Alexander.
Qºngress proceeded to the election of a pay-master general, in the room
of Mr. Warren, whose resignation was accepted; and the ballots being taken,
and examined, *
William Palfrey, esq. was elected. º
Congress also broceeded to the election of a deputy commissary-general,
for supplying the troops in Virginia with rations; and the ballots being taken,
and examined, t;
William Aylet, esq. was elected.
VoI. I. *
42
330 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
Resolved, That Mr. Rodney and Mr. Read be added to the committee ap-
pointed to supply the troops in Philadelphia, and the battalion in the lower
counties on Delaware. 's
A memorial from the committee of safety of Pennsylvania was presented to
Congress and read.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, April 29, 1776.
Sundry letters and papers being received, were laid before Congress and
read, viz. ** *
A letter of the 25th, from general Washington, enclosing a return of the
army at New-York: *
A letter from major Wrixon, declining to accept of the commission of chief
€nglneer :
A letter from the council of safety of Maryland, with the examination of
Alexander Ross, and sundry papers found in his possession:
Resolved, That the letter from general Washington and the letter from the
council of safety of Maryland, with Mr. Ross’s papers, be referred to a com-
mittee of five: \
The members chosen, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Rutledge, Mr. Goldsborough, Mr.
Paine, and Mr. Rodney.
Also, a letter of the 19th from general Lee, and one from Thomas Bullet;
and a petition from Dr. J. Potts, were read, and referred to the said committee.
Resolved, That letters be written by the president to general Schuyler and
the committee of safety of New-York, desiring them to inform this, Congress,
whether the continental commissions sent to them for the officers of the troops
raised by Connecticut the last campaign, were delivered, or offered to them, or
to any, and which of them, and whether any, and which of them refused, or
accepted the same? and particularly, whether commissions were offered to
º Waterbury and colonel Easton, and whether they refused accepting
them *
Resolved, That captain Peter Adams, from Maryland, under whose custody
Alexander Ross was brought to Philadelphia, be dismissed, and that the said
Alexander Ross be committed to the care of the officer commanding the con-
tinental troops in Pennsylvania.
Resolved, That a standing committee be appointed for Indian affairs; that
it consist of five : that the election of the members be postponed till to-morrow.
Resolved, That the Congress, relying on the integrity and honor of captain
A. M'Gee, order, that he be permitted to go at large, on giving his º to
the committee of West Augusta, not to engage or be concerned in any mea-
sure injurious to these colonies, by stimulating the Indian nations to make war
against them, or otherwise.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due, *
To Benjamin Marshall, for tin cartouch boxes, the sum of 465 dollars:
To Ephraim Blaine, esq. for subsistence, wagonage, and ferriages of the 6th
Pennsylvania battalion, the sum of 2736 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on ge-
neral Washington’s letter of the 19th, &c. Whereupon,
Resolved, That the papers from Fort-Pitt be referred to the committee ap-
pointed to consider the state of Indian affairs in the middle department.
Resolved, That no traders ought to go into the Indian country without li-
cense from the agent in the department; and that care be taken by him to pre-
vent exorbitant prices for goods being exacted from the Indians.
Resolved, That a ton of powder be sent to Mr. G. Morgan, to be distributed
to such Indians as he shall be convinced are in our interest. .
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 33}
sº
Resolved, That measures be immediately taken to procure goods to supply
the Indians at the treaties ordered to be held with them.
Resolved, That the councils of Massachusetts-Bay and New-Hampshire, and
the governors of Connecticut and Rhode-Island, be earnestly requested to take
the most speedy and effectual measures to collect as much hard money in their
respective colonies as possible, and to send the same, as collected, to general
Schuyler, and draw upon the president of Congress for the amount.
Resolved, That the further consideration of the report, and the several mat-
ters to this day referred, be postponed till to-morrow, to which time Congress
adjourned.
ºf TUESDAY, April 30, 1776.
Agreeable to order, Congress proceeded to the election of a standing com-
mittee for Indian affairs, when, -
Mr. Wythe, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Wolcott, Mr. L. Morris, and Mr. Rutledge,
were elected.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Matthew Swan, for carrying two brass field-pieces from Philadelphia to
Williamsburgh, the sum of 93.6 dollars, over and beside the sum of 80 dollars
paid him by Robert Erwin, and 13.3 dollars paid by the committee of Williams-
burg:
For house-rent, carriage, and other contingent expenses of the fourth Penn-
sylvania battalion, the sum of 358.6 dollars, and that the same ought to be paid
to John Harper, quarter-master of the said battalion :
For provisions for captain Ross’s company, supplied by Charles Jackson,
the sum of 9.1 dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to Timothy Matlack.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The committee to whom was referred the memorial from the committee of in-
spection and observation of the city and liberties of Philadelphia, praying the
advice of Congress whether they ought to continue the exercise of the power of
regulating the price of goods in other instances than that of green tea, brought
in their report, which, being taken into consideration, was agreed to: Where-
upon,
"ºled, That the ninth article of the association, which enjoined the inha-
bitants of the United Colonies to sell goods and merchandise at the rates they
had respectively been accustomed to do for twelve months then last past, was,
in its nature, a temporary regulation respecting the goods then on hand; but
as those goods are nearly consumed, and a further supply must be obtained
at an extraordinary risk and expense, and it is reasonable that adventurers
should be encouraged by a prospect of gain adequate to the danger which may
be incurred in the importation, and a free trade being now opened from the
Jnited 9olonies to all parts of the world except the dominions belonging to the
king of Great-Britain,
Resolved, That the power of committees of inspection and observation to re-
sº the prices of goods, in other instances than the article of green tea, ought
O Cea. See
. Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on gen. Wash-
ingºn’s letter of the 24th of March: Whereupon, *
Resolved, That the vessels which were left in the docks and harbor at Bos-
ton, by the enemy, and which different persons claim as their property, ought
to be restored to their former owners, being inhabitants of these colonies, on
their making Proof of their title, unless the said parties so claiming, shall have
been voluntarily active against the rights of the United Colonies, by affording
aid and assistance to the British fleet and army; and that it be recommended
tº the government of Massachusetts -Bay to appoint commissioners to hear such
claims, and determine on the sufficiency of the proof thereof;
339. JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
*— ºr-º-
Provided, That any person apprehending himself or herself to be aggrieved
by the adjudication of the commissioners, may appeal from their sentence to
Congress, such appeal being demanded and lodged with the secretary of Con-
gress, within the times limited, and the appellant giving security, in the man-
ner prescribed in the case of an appeal from the sentence of a court appointed
for hearing maritime causes. }
Resolved, That the further consideration of the report be postponed.
Resolved, That an order for 2,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in fa-
vor of George Evans, who has contracted to supply the Delaware battalions with
rations, he to be accountable.
The delegates for New-Jersey having laid before Congress a number of bills
counterfeited to imitate the continental bills of credit,
Resolved, That a committee of six be appointed to consider of this matter,
and report thereon to Congress. ſº
The members chosen, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. Sherman, Mr.
J. Adams, Mr. Braxton, and Mr. Duane.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Thursday.
THURSDAY, JMay 2, 1776.
Sundry letters being received, were laid before Congress and read, viz. one
of the 22d of April, from the committee of secrecy, war, and intelligence, of
North-Carolina, with a list of prisoners sent to Philadelphia;
One of the 30th of April, from general Washington, enclosing a memorial
from governor Cooke; and
Y º of the 29th of the same month, from the committee of safety of New-
OTK.
Ordered, That the letter from general Washington, with the memorial en-
closed, be referred to the committee appointed to take into consideration the
state of the eastern colonies. *.
Resolved, That a letter be written to general Schuyler, desiring him, in case
major Douglass declines to take the command of the vessels on the lakes, to
appoint captain Wyncoop to that command, and inform Congress thereof by
the first opportunity.
Resolved, That an order for 20,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in
-favour of James Mease, commissary, for the use of the Pennsylvania battal-
ions, he to be accountable.
A letter of the 1st, from Henry Fisher, of Lewistown, directed to the com-
mittee of safety of Pennsylvania, was laid before Congress, and read ;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the commanding officer of the Delaware battalion, be direct-
: station thirty-five men, with an officer, at the False Cape, till farther
OFOICFS,
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to send 200lb. of powder,
. 200lb. of lead, to Lewis town, for the use of the companies stationed
there.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Dr. William Murry, for account of medicine and attendance for the fourth
Pennsylvania battalion, the sum of 58.3 dollars.
Ordered, That the said account be paid.
The committee, to whom were refered the papers laid before Congress by the
delegates from North-Carolina, brought in their report, which was read:
Ordered, to lie on the table.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on
general Washington’s letter of the 24th of March last; and after debate,
Resolved, That it be recommitted; and, as the members of the former com-
mittee are absent, that a new committee be appointed.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 333
The members chosen, Mr. Dickinson, Mr. W. Livingston, and Mr. W.
Rutledge.
Hºa, That it be recommended to that branch of the council of safety
of Delaware government, residing in Kent county, to furnish the commanding
officer of the Delaware battalion, with as many of the public arms of that
county as may be sufficient for arming the companies of the said battalion;
stationed at Lewistown, to be used by them till otherwise ordered by the said
branch of the council of safety.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JMay 3, 1776.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To David Williams for wagon-hire, the sum of 112 dollars :
Ordered, That the said account be paid.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to send two hundred pounds
of Peruvian bark to the commanding officer in Virginia, for the use of the
continental forces in the southern department. *
A petition from Peter Simon was presented to Congress and read:
Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of three:
The members chosen, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. Wythe, and Mr. J. Adams.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell to Hendrick Van-
brune and Thomas Littel, 300 lb. of powder, for the use of the inhabitants of
the township of Shrewsbury, to enable them to defend their sea-coast.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the letter
from brigadier lord Sterling, dated the 18th of March last; which was agreed
to ; Whereupon, i
Resolved, That the appointment of lieutenant-colonel Ogden, of the first
battalion of New-Jersey, was made upon good grounds, the Congress having
reserved and frequently exercised the right of promoting men of distinguished
merit:
That the commissary, Mr. Lowry, be directed to supply such of the soldiers
º: the said battalion, as desire it, with uniforms, the cost to be deducted from
their pay:
That i. the army is now removed from Cambridge to New-York, the consi-
deration of raising a regiment of artillery for the service in that city, as applied
for in the said letter, be postponed till further advice may be received from
general Washington, or the commanding officer there.
A petition from captain Oswald Eve was presented to Congress and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Floyd, and Mr. Sergeant.
Resolved, That an order for 20,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favour of colonel John Haslet, for the use of the Delaware battalion under his
command, he to be accountable.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to send 300lb. of powder,
and a proportionable quantity of lead, to Lewistown, for the use of the troops
stationed there.
The cºmmittee, to whom the report on general Washington's letter of the
34th of March last was recommitted, brought in their report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, JMay 4, 1776.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Dr. David Cowell, the sum of 97.4 dollars.
334 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
—&
Ordered, That the said account be paid.
A letter of the 3d, from colonel Hand, of the rifle battalion, was read;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That an order for 4000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in
favor of colonel Hand, for the use of his battálion, he to be accountable. "
That the letter from colonel Hand be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Read, Mr. Sergeant, and Mr. Huntington.
The Congress taking into consideration the letter of the 29th of April, from
the committee of safety of New-York: Whereupon,
Resolved, That a major be appointed for the first New-York battalion, in
the room of major Benedict, who has resigned :
The ballots being taken and examined,
Barnabas Tuthill, esq. was elected.
Sundry letters, just received, were laid before Congress, and read, viz. one
of the 10th of April, from brigadier general Wooster, at Holland-House, be-
fore Quebec:
One of the 28th of said month, from general' Schuyler, dated Fort-George,
enclosing the examination of Michael Ryan:
One of the 27th of the same month, from governor Trumbull, enclosing a
letter from N. Shaw, jun. with a list of the cannon left at New-London.
Ordered, That the marine committee lay on the table, on Monday next, the
instructions given by the naval committee to commodore Hopkins, upon his
leaving this port.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report on general Washington's
letter of the 24th of March : Whereupon,
Resolved, That all the cannon, and other stores, in Boston, which were ori-
ginally purchased and provided by and at the expense of the colonies of Mas-
sachusetts-Bay and New-Hampshire, be considered as belonging to the colony
that so purchased and provided them; and that all the other cannon left in
the colony of Massachusetts-Bay, by the British forces, be presented to the
said colony:
The farther consideration of the report, at the request of a colony, was post-
poned till Monday next.
Congress then took into consideration the report of the committee on general
Washington’s letter of the 4th of April: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the pay of the officers and soldiers of the militia, lately
called to Cambridge, commence on the day of their march, and cease on that
of their return. *
Itesolved, That the farther consideration of the report be postponed.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, JMay 6, 1776.
Advice being received that captain Young, who was fitted out at the expense
of the continent, by Mr. Lewis and Mr. Alsop, was arrived;
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to give proper orders for
landing, securing and bringing to Philadelphia the cargo imported by captain
Young.
A fiemorial of captain Herman Allen was presented to Congress, and read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the committee of claims.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report on general Washington’s
letter of the 24th of March ; and, thereupon, came to the following resolution:
Whereas general Washington has requested directions concerning the con-
duct that should be observed towards commissioners, said to be coming from
Great-Britain to America, e
Resolved, That general Washington be informed, that Congress suppose, if
commissioners are intended to be sent from Great-Britain.to treat of peacer
Y
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 835
that #. practice usual in such cases will be observed, by making previous ap-
lication for the necessary passports or safe conduct, and on such application
eing made, Congress will then direct the proper measures for the reception of
such commissioners.
The committee appointed to bring in a resolution, whereby persons resi-
dent, or having property in America, who assist any of the enemies of these
United Colonies in the captures of vessels or goods, may be made liable to
make good the damage to the sufferers, brought in a report which was read :
Ordered, To lie on the table.
A letter of the 24th of April, from general Lee, was read.
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take
hto their consideration, the state of the United Colonies; and after some time
º thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported,
that the committee had taken into consideration the matter to them referred,
and had thereupon come to sundry resolutions, which he was ordered to report
when the house should be ready to receive them.
Ordered, That the report be now delivered in.
f i. report of the committee of the whole being read, was agreed to as
{}11OWS :
Resolved, That ten millions of dollars be raised for the purpose of carrying
on the war for the current year:
That the Indian goods said to be at Fort-Pitt, be purchased for the use of the
United Colonies:
That Indian goods to the value of ten thousand dollars, be purchased at
Montreal, for the use of the United Colonies:
That treaties be held with the Indians in the different departments, as soon
as practicable; and that the sum of ten thousand dollars be paid out of the
treasury, to the commissioners of each respective department, for presents to
the Indians and the expenses of such treaties.
Mr. Harrison further reported, that the committee desired him to move for
leave to sit again: Whereupon, *
Resolved. That Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee of
the whole, to take into consideration the state of America.
Resolved, That a committee of seven be appointed to devise ways and means
for raising the ten millions of dollars:
The members chosen, Mr. Duane, Mr. R. Morris, Mr. Rutledge, Mr. Ger-
ry, Mr. Sherman, Mr. R. H. Lee, and Mr. Hewes.
Resolved, That the convention, or council of safety of Virginia, be empow-
ered to appoint surgeons to the battalions raised in the said colony, for the ser-
Vice of the continent. -
Fesolved, That John Taylor be appointed judge-advocate to the continental
troops in the colony of Virginia.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, JMay 7, 1776.
i. letters being received, were laid before Congress, and read, viz.
Qne of the 5th of April from general Washington: **
One of the 14th from John G. Frazer, enclosing a list of the vessels, cannon,
and ordnance-stores left by the enemy at Boston:
One from sundry prisoners at Hartford, in Connecticut, dated 21st March:
One from L. F. of St. Eustatia, dated 5th of April:
Resolved, That the said letters be referred to a committee of three:
The members chosen, Mr. s. Adams, Mr. Braxton, and Mr Duane.
A petition from John Bayard, P. Moore, and John Patton, was presented to
Congress and read: Whereupon,
#solved, That the secret committee be directed to sell to the petitioners
600lb. of powder, for the use of the privateers they are fitting out.
336 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
*
-*-
-**
{
Resolved, That one hundred dollars be paid by the treasurers to M. Giason,
a Canadian prisoner, upon his giving a bill upon his friend at Montreal for the
like sum, payable on demand.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the papers
laid before Congress by the delegates of North-Carolina: Whereupon,
Resolved, That another battalion raised, in North-Carolina, in addition to
the five battalions already ordered for the defence of that colony, be taken in-
to the pay and service of the United Colonies:
That a deputy quarter-master general be appointed for the southern depart-
ment, to be employed in North-Carolina:
That the secret committee be directed to procure and forward twelve field-
pieces for the use of the troops in North-Carolina:
That the secret committee be directed to forward three tons of gun-powder
for the defence of the said colony :
That the committee on qualifications be directed to purchase and forward
to North-Carolina, a chest of medicines and instruments, equal in value to
one of those furnished by the Pennsylvania battalions, for each of the six bat-
talions raised in the colony of North-Carolina.
Congress proceeded to the election of a deputy quarter-master general for
the southern department; and the ballots being taken,
Nicholas Long, esq. was elected.
Resolved, That Nicholas Long, esq. have the rank of a colonel in the con-
tinental army.
The convention of North-Carolina having recommended sundry gentlemen
for field-officers of the six battalions raised in that colony, Congress proceed-
ed to a choice, and the following gentlemen were elected:
Francis Nash, esq. colonel, Thomas Clarke, esq. lieutenant-colonel, William
Davis, esq. major, of the 1st battalion.
Alexander Martin, esq. colonel, John Patton, esq. lieutenant-colonel, John
White, esq. major, of the second battalion.
Jethro Sumner, esq. colonel, William Alston, esq. lieutenant-colonel, Samu-
el Lockart, esq. major, of the 3d battalion.
Thomas Polk, esq. colonel, James Thackston, esq. lieutenant-colonel, Wil-
liam Davidson, esq. major, of the 4th battalion. -
Edward Bancombe, esq. colonel, Henry Irwin, esq. lieutenant-colonel, Levi
Dawson, esq. major, of the 5th battalion.
Alexander Lillington, esq. colonel, William Taylor, esq. lieutenant-colonel,
Gideon Lamb, esq. major, of the 6th battalion.
Ordered, That the letter received yesterday from general Lee, be referred
to the committee to whom were referred the letters received this morning.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to purchase stockings for the troops
in Canada, be directed to apply to the general assemblies of Massachusetts-
Bay and Connecticut, and request them to assist in procuring the said stock-
II].S.S.- k
Congress took into consideration the memorial from the committee of safety
of Pennsylvania; Whereupon,
Resolved, That twenty of the heaviest cannon, taken by commodore Hop-
kins, at New-Providence, and brought from thence to New-London, and since
carried to Newport, be brought to the city of Philadelphia, and delivered to the
committee of safety of Pennsylvania, º: the defence and protection of the
said city; to remain there during the pleasure of Congress. t *
William Peachy, esq. colonel of the fifth Virginia battalion, having resigned,
Congress proceeded to elect a gentleman to supply his place; and, the ballots
being taken, t
Charles Scott, esq. was elected; and,
Alexander Spotswood was elected lieutenant-colonel of the second battalion,
in the room of colonel Scott,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 34?
*—a
Resolved, That such of the iron cannon, as was brought from Ticonderoga
to Boston, and have not been removed by general Washington, be lent for the
defence of the town and harbor of Boston, to remain there during the pleasure
of Congress.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, JMay 8, 1776.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To William Brady for-thirty days wagonage in conveying captain Steven-
son’s baggage from Virginia to Roxbury, the sum of 60 dollars; and that the
same ought to be paid to Daniel M'Pherson.
To James M'Donnel, for wagonage, in conveying baggage belonging to cap-
tain Talbot’s company of the sixth Pennsylvania battalion, to New-York, the
sum of 117.9 dollars :
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid. -
A letter of the 5th from general Washington, one of the 4th from William
Palfrey, pay-master general, and one of the 2d from captain Delaplace, a pri-
soner, were laid before Congress and read.
Ordered, That they be referred to a committee of five.
The members chosen, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Rodney, Mr. R.
H. Lee, and Mr. Whipple.
A petition from captain Gideon Warren, and a letter from Joseph Wood-
ward, chairman of the committee of New-Hampshire grants, were presented
to Congress, and read:
Ordered, That they be referred to a committee of five, who are directed to
hear the persons mentioned in the said letter, and report thereon to Congress:
The members chosen, Mr. Rodney, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Hewes, Mr. Lynch,
and Mr. Alexander.
The instructions given by the naval committee to commodore Hopkins, be-
ing laid before Congress, and read,
Ordered, That they be referred to a committee of seven ; and that it be an in-
struction to the said committee, to enquire how far commodore Hopkins has
complied with the said instructions, and if, upon enquiry, they shall find that he
has departed therefrom, to examine into the occasion thereof; also, to enquire
into the situation of the governor and lieutenant-governor of Providence, and
the other officer, brought from thence, and report what, in their opinion, is pro-
per to be done with them:
That the said committee have power to send for witnesses and papers:
The members chosen, Mr. Harrison, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Nº. Mr.
Duane, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Sherman, and Mr. W. Livingston.
Information being given to Congress, that Kirkland, a prisoner, has broken
gaol and made his escape,
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to devise ways and means
to have him retaken :
The members chosen, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. Lynch, and Mr. Gerry. .
Fesolved. That whenever it shall appear to this Congress, that any officer
or officers, bearing continental commissions, shall have departed from orders,
an enquiry shall be made.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell to Aaron Biddle
and John Helm, 75 lbs. powder, for the use of the inhabitants of Upper-Penns-
neck, in New-Jersey.
Agreeable to the order of the day, Congress resolved itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into consideration the state of the colonies; and, after
Some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison
reported, * the committee have had under consideration the matter to them
OL. 1. 43
338 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
—º-
*Y.
referred, but not having come to any resolutions thereon, desired him to move
for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee of
the whole, to take into consideration the state of these colonies.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, JMay 9, 1776.
A letter from Ab. Livingston, offering to resign the contract made with the
convention of New-York, for supplying the troops, in that colony, with provi-
sions; also, a letter of the 8th from colonel James Easton, were laid before
Congress, and read:
Ordered, That they be referred to a committee of three :
The members chosen, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. S. Adams, and Mr. Wythe,
Application being made for a safe conduct for Mrs. Bellew, wife of captain
Bellew, of the Liverpool, to pass through the country to her relations in Mar-
blehead,
Ordered, That it be referred for consideration to Mr. R. H. Lee and Mr.
R. Morris.
The committee of claims report, that there is due,
To Wim. Bedford, for cartouch straps, the sum of 193.3 dollars:
To colonel Jos. Read, for camp equipage, &c. procured for general Wash-
ington, the sum of 434.2 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The said committee having reported on the petition and accounts of cap-
tain Herman Allen, which were referred to them,
Resolved, That the said petition and accounts be referred to the committee
on the treasury. *
The committee on prisoners, to whom the letter from Henry Beaumont, of
the 26th regiment of the king of Great-Britain, was referred, brought in a re-
port, which was taken into consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the said Henry Beaumont be permitted to reside with his
wife and family at Elizabeth-town, in the colony of New-Jersey, he giving to
the committee of inspection and observation of the said borough, his parole, in
the form prescribed by Congress. t
The committee appointed to devise ways and means for raising ten millions
of dollars for the service of the current year, brought in their report, which was
read and considered: Whereupon, r
Resolved, That five millions of dollars be emitted in bills of credit, in part
of the ten millions voted for the service of the current year:
That the thirteen United Colonies be pledged for the redemption of the said
five millions of dollars, at such periods, and in such manner and proportions as
Congress shall hereafter direct and appoint.
Resolved, That it be referred to the superintendents of the treasury, to con-
sider of and report a plan for carrying into effect the before-mentioned resolu-
tion for emitting five millions of dollars in bills of credit, towards the service of
the current year.
The committee having informed Congress that they have not had time to
complete their report:
Resolved, That they have leave to sit again.
Captain Budden having been taken by the Liverpool man of war, and per-
mitted, on his parole, to come to Philadelphia, in order to procure a prisoner to
be given in exchange for him,
#º, That a committee of three be appointed to consider the propriety
of exchanging seamen:
The members chosen, Mr. R. Morris, Mr. Hewes, and Mr. Huntington.
Agreeable to the order of the day, Congress resolved itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into consideration the state of the United Colonies; and,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 389
after some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harri-
son reported, that the committee have had under consideration the matter re-
ferred to them, and have come to a resolution thereon, which he read and de-
livered in.
The resolution of the committee of the whole was again read, and the deter-
mination thereof, at the request of a colony, was postponed till to-morrow.
The committee to whom the application in favor of Mrs. Bellew was referred,
brought in a report, which was taken into consideration : Whereupon,
Resolved, That a passport be granted to Mrs. Bellew to come to the city of
Philadelphia, under escort of a continental officer, and that she may reside
safely and unmolested in the said city, until her friends in New-England come
to escort her to Marblehead, when a safe conduct shall also be granted to her
for thatjourney, and for her residence there during her pleasure.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JMay 10, 1776.
A letter of the 7th, from general Washington, and one of the 3d, from Tho-
mas Cushing, were laid before Congress, and read:
Ordered, That they be referred to the committee on the state of the eastern
colonies.
A letter from Monsieur Docaisor was read :
Ordered, That it be referred to the secret committee.
The committee to whom was referred the consideration of general Washing-
ton’s letter, of the 5th, and the papers enclosed, brought in a report, which was
taken into consideration : Whereupon,
Resolved, That a copy of the resolutions passed the 1st day of April last, es-
ºng the mode of settling the public accounts, be transmitted to the ge-
Il era.1 :
That the resolution of Congress, passed the 17th of January last, allowing
one dollar and one-third of a dollar to the officers, in lieu of expenses for inlist-
ing each soldier, being a general regulation, extends to the troops raised in the
eastern department; i that the general be directed to make that allowance
for all the troops inlisted since the time of passing the said resolution:
That, as the road recommended by general Washington to be opened between
the town of Newbury, on Connecticut river, and the province of Canada, will
facilitate the march and return of the troops employed in that quarter, and
promote the public service, the general be directed to prosecute the plan he has
formed, respecting the said road:
That ten tons of gun-powder be sent to New-York:
That 400,000 dollars be sent to the pay-master general for the use of the ar-
my in New-York and the Massachusetts-Bay:
That the commanding officers in the different departments and posts, shall
make monthly returns to the commander in chief of the continental army, of the
number and state of the troops, and the military stores in their respective de-
partments :
That this Congress has hitherto exercised, and ought to retain the power of
promoting the . in the continental service according to their merit; and
that nº promotion or succession shall take place upon any vacancy, without the
authority of a continental commission.
Congress resumed the consideration of the resolution reported from the com-
mittee of the whole, and the same was agreed to as follows:
Resolved, That it be recommended to the respective assemblies and conven-
tions of the United Colonies, where no government sufficient to the exigencies
of their affairs hath been hitherto established, to adopt such government as shall,
in the opinion of the representatives of the people, best conduce to the happi-
ness and safety of their constituents in particular, and America in general.
340 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
-**-
~~
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare a preamble to
the foregoing resolution :
The members chosen, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Rutledge, and Mr. R. H. Lee.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell to col. David Potter,
and capt. Daniel Maskell, 200 lbs. of powder, and 1,000 lbs. of lead for the use
of the inhabitants of Bridgetown, Cumberland county, in New-Jersey.
The committee to whom were referred the letter from general Washington
of the 25th and 26th of April, the case of Alexander Ross, and the letter from
general Lee, brought in a report, which was read.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the state of the eastern
colonies, brought in a report, which was read.
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consid-
eration the state of the United Colonies; and, after some time spent thereon,
the º resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the commit-
tee have had under consideration the matter referred to them, but not having
had time to finish their enquiries, desired him to move for leave to sit
again.
Resolved, That Congress will, on Monday next, resolve itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the state of the United
Colonies.
Resolved, That the committee of secret correspondence be directed to lay
their proceedings before Congress on Monday next, withholding the names of
the persons they have employed, or with whom they have corresponded.
The committee appointed to consider the propriety of exchanging seamen,
brought in a report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That lieutenant Ball, of the Roebuck, and the three seamen that
were taken with him, and are now prisoners in the lower counties on Dela-
8. be exchanged for captain Budden and his son, Seth Davis, and Samuel
onyers: *
That six of the seamen now prisoners in Philadelphia, to be named by the
committee of safety of Pennsylvania, may be given in exchange for the follow-
ing persons, viz. Mr. Lightbody, James Hage, Fortescue, a pilot boy;
William Martin, Jacob Wilson, and John Durry:
That the said exchange of prisoners be conducted by such proper persons
as the committee of safety of Pennsylvania may appoint for that purpose.
The committee, to whom was referred the letter ''. Ab. Livingston, offer-
ing to cancel the contract he had made with a committee of the convention of
New-York, for supplying the forces in that colony with provisions, brought in
their report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon, --
Resolved, That Mr. Ab. Livingston, in voluntarily resigning a contract
which might have been so profitable to him, has exhibited an example of pub-
lic spirit, and Congress accept the resignation of his contract.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to devise ways and means for
retaking Moses Kirkland, be empowered to send an express to the southward,
and desire the committees or councils of safety of the southern colonies, to use
their utmost endeavours to have him apprehended, and that they offer a reward
of one hundred dollars, in addition to the hundred already offered, for appre-
hending and securing the said Moses Kirkland.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the council of safety of Penn-
Sylvania, to examine into the conduct of the gaoler, who had the charge
and custody of Moses Kirkland, and if they find him culpable, that they have
him removed.
Resolved, That George Morgan, esq. agent under the commissioners for
Indian affairs in the middle department, be directed to purchase the Indian
goºds, said to be at Pittsburg, for the use of the United ë.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the case of
Alexander Ross; Whereupon,
-*.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 341
Resolved, That the said Alexander Ross be discharged from confinement.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to morrow.
SATURDAY, JMay 11, 1776.
A petition from John Jacobs, in behalf of himself and others, was presented
to Congress, and read:
Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Lee, and Mr. Rutledge.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the state of
the eastern colonies; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the two battalions, directed by the assembly of Rhode-
Island to be raised, be taken into continental pay; the battalion or-
dered to be raised in November last, from the time they were armed, clothed,
and fit for duty; and the one since ordered to be raised, from the present time;
provided they be armed, clothed, and fit for service; and that, if they be not
so armed and appointed, they be taken into continental pay, as soon as they
shall be armed and mustered:
Resolved, That the remainder of the report be referred to a committee of
the whole Congress.
Resolved, That the standing committee for Indian affairs be directed to take
measures, for carrying into execution the resolution of the 6th, for holding a
treaty with the Indians, in the different departments, as soon as practicable.
That the 20th of July be fixed on for holding a treaty, at Pittsburg, with the
Indians, in the middle department; and that the standing committee be direct-
ed to inform the agent, and desire him to notify the Indians, and invite them
to attend at the time and place mentioned: and also, that the said committee
inform the commissioners, and desire them to attend.
Resolved, That John Harvey be appointed a commissioner for Indian affairs
in the middle department.
Certain resolutions of the board of officers in Philadelphia, and a petition
from the committee of privates of the military association . the city and liber-
ties of Philadelphia, were presented to Congress, and read:
Ordered, That they be referred to a committee of the whole Congress.
A memorial from Caunier de la Berthaudure was presented to Congress,
and read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That two sets of trepanning instruments be sent to Virginia for
the use of the surgeons of the continental troops there; and that two sets of
trepanning instruments, and 100 lb. of Peruvian bark, be sent to North-Caro-
lina, for the use of the continental troops in that colony.
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consi-
deration the report of the committee on the state of the colonies in the eastern
department, and the resolves of the officers, and petition of the committee of
privates of the military association of the city and liberties of Philadelphia;
and, after some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr.
Harrison reported, that the committee had taken into consideration the matters
to them referred, and had come to a resolution thereupon; but, not having time
to finish, desired him to move for leave to sit again.
* ºlution reported from the committee of the whole Congress be-
ing read, *
ºld. That the farther consideration thereoſ be postponed to Monday
Il CXU,
Resolved, That Congress will, on Monday next, resolve itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the report of the committee on
the state of the colonies in the eastern department, and the resolves of the
9fficers, and petition of the privates of the military association of the city and
liberties of Philadelphia, p litary y a
342 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to send 500 lb. of powder
to the committee of safety of Delaware government, for the use of their militia.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
On account rendered by the committee for the upper district of Frederick
county, in Virginia, of the expenses incurred by captain John Nelson’s com-
pany of riflemen, the sum of 1415.4 dollars, and that the same ought to be
paid to Michael Fackler, and that the said company ought to be charged with
the sum of 1016 dollars, the amount of rifles and goods, &c. furnished for their
use, the remainder, being for provisions and wagonage, to be charged to the
continent.
To Andrew M*Nair for attendance and for candles, &c. the sum of 181.9
dollars, in full of his account to the 30th of April last:
To Robert Erwin, wagon-master, for five teams that went to Canada, a ba-
lance of 699.6 dollars: *
To Walter Drummond, for nursing several persons belonging to captain
Benezet's company, the sum of 27 dollars: *
To George London, for 34 days wagonage for the 6th battalion, the sum of
117.5 dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, JMay 13, 1776.
A letter of the 9th from general Washington, was laid before Congress
and read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the committee on qualifications,
Sundry petitions were presented to Congress and read, viz. One from Dr.
Benjamin Church, and one from Benjamin, Samuel and Edward Church, with
a certificate from three physicians respecting the health of Dr. B. Church; also
one from John Connolly and John Smith, accompanied with a letter from Dr.
Cadwallader:
Ordered, That they be referred to the committee on prisoners.
A letter of the 3d from George Morgan, at Pittsburg, was read: º
Ordered, That it be referred to the standing committee on Indian affairs.
Resolved, That Mrs. Connolly have leave to visit her husband in gaol.
Agreeable to order, the committee of secret correspondence laid before
Congress a copy of their proceedings. º
The committee appointed to prepare a preamble to the resolution of Congress
passed the 10th, brought in a draught, which was read: , .
Ordered, That the consideration thereof be postponed till to-morrow.
A letter of the 4th from Edmund Pendleton, president of the committee of
safety of Virginia, was laid before Congress, and read.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due, º
To A. C. Hanson, for the expenses of two gentlemen, a private soldier, and
a servant, on an expedition to New-York, the sum of 76.4 dollars:
To Rachel Stille, for boarding prisoners now in Trenton, and including cap-
tain Chase's bill of 8.5 dollars, and a bill of wagonage, the sum of 290.9 dollars.
To Robert Erwin, wagon-master, for wagonage of powder from Egg-harbour
to Philadelphia, the sum of 247 dollars: .. $
To Frederick Bicking, for paper for the continental bills of credit, the sum
of 1109.3 dollars: * º
To Gunning Bedford, deputy muster-master general, for his pay and ex-
penses to the 17th of April last, the sum of 455.6 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Congress resumed the consideration of the resolution reported from the com-
mittee of the whole; and, after debate, the determination thereof, at the re-
quest of a colony, was postponed till to-morrow. *
/
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. $43
–4–-
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, JMay 14, 1776.
A letter of the 11th from general Washington, enclosing sundry papers; a
letter of the third from general Schuyler, and a letter of the 9th from Daniel
Robertson, were laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That they be referred to a commmittee of three:
The members chosen, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. J Adams.
The committee to whom the petition of Dr. Benjamin Church, now confined
in gaol in Norwich, in the colony of Connecticut, and a petition from Benja-
min, Samuel, and Edward Church, together with a certificate from physicians,
respecting the dangerous state of the aforesaid Dr. Church, were referred,
brought in their report, which was read and agreed to: Whereupon,
Resolved, That Dr. Benjamin Church be sent to the colony of Massachu-
setts-Bay, and that the council of the said colony be requested to take a re-
cognizance from him, with two good sureties, in such penalty as they shall
think sufficient, not being less than one thousand pounds, lawful money, for
his appearance before such court as shall be erected for his trial, and at such
time and place as such court shall direct, and to abide the judgment of the
Same ; ...]"that they be farther requested, to take his parole, not to hold any
correspondence with the enemies of the United Colonies, or at any time, to
depart out of the said colony, without their license; and that, upon the per-
formance thereof, the said Dr. Benjamin Church be set at liberty.
The assembly of Rhode-Island, having appointed two delegates to represent
that colony in Congress, the credentials of their appointment were laid before
Congress, and read, as follows:
(L.S.) “The governor and company of the English colony of Rhode-Island
' ' and Providence Plantations, in general assembly convened, to Ste-
phen Hopkins and William Ellery, esqs.greeting: Whereas this assembly, re-
posing, special trust and confidence in your abilities and integrity, have ap-
pointed you, the said Stephen Hopkins and William Ellery, delegates, to re-
present this colony in general Congress; you are, therefore, hereby empow-
ered to join with the delegates of the other United Colonies, in Congress, at
Philadelphia, as soon as conveniently may be, or at such time and place as
shall be agreed upon by the major part of the delegates from the said colonies.
You are also authorized and empowered to consult and advise with the dele-
gates of the said colonies in Congress, upon the most proper measures for pro-
moting and confirming the strictest union and confederation between the said
United Colonies, for exerting their whole strength and force to annoy the com-
mon enemy, and to secure the said colonies their rights and liberties, both civil
and religious, whether by entering into treatise with any prince, state, or po-
tentate, or by such other prudent and effectual ways and means as shall be de-
vised and agreed on ; and, in conjunction with the delegates from the said
United Colonies, or the major part of them, to enter into and adopt all such
measures, taking the greatest care to secure to this colony, in the strongest and
most perfect manner, its present established form, and all the powers of gov-
ernment, so far as relates to its internal police and conduct of our own affairs,
civil and religious. You are also instructed and directed, to exert your utmost
abilities, in Garrying on this just and necessary war, in which we are engaged
against cruel and unnatural enemies, in the most vigorous manner, until peace
shall be restored to the said colonies, and their rights and liberties secured
upºn a solid and permanent basis. You are also empowered, to join with the
major part of the delegates to the said United Colonies, in adjourning, from
time, tº time, and to such place or places as shall be thought proper for
and during one year. And, as it may happen, that from sickness of other me.
844 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
cessary causes, one of you may be absent from Congress, in all such cases the
other is hereby as º empowered to represent the colony, as though both
were present and agreed in sentiment. May 4, 1776.
In behalf of the general assembly, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused
the seal of the colony to be . the sixth day of May, in the year of our
Lord, one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six. *
NICHOLAS COOKE, Governor.”
By his honor’s command,
HENRY WARD, Secretary.
The committee, to whom the letter from general Washington of the 5th, and
the letter from captain Delaplace of the 2d, &c. were referred, brought in their
report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That as a number of arms, fit for use, may be bought of the owners,
who may incline to sell them, general Yºlº be desired to employ such
an agent as he hath proposed, to go into any of the colonies for that purpose:
That a copy of the letter from captain Delaplace be sent to major-general
Schuyler, and that he be desired to enquire how the things, therein mentioned
to have been left by captain Delaplace, were disposed of, and what was the
value thereof, and report the matter, as it shall appear to him, to Congress:
That the case of captain Delaplace is not distinguishable from that of other
prisoners of war, who are obliged to refund the expenses of their mainten-
&Il Ces
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to colonel Jacob
Ford, jun. three tons of salt-petre, to be by him manufactured into gun-powder
for the use of the United tºº, on the same terms as others have agreed to
manufacture it:
That the said committee be directed to sell to Joseph Ellis, 400 lb. of pow-
der, and a quantity of iron-ball, sufficient for 900 lb. of powder, for the de-
fence of the colony of New-Jersey:
That the said committee be directed to deliver to colonel Bird, 200 lb. of
powder, to prove the cannon he is making for the United Colonies.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to contract for the making of can-
non, be directed to employ proper persons to attend and see the cannon proved :
That an order for 2000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of the
cannon-committee; they to be accountable.
Congress then resumed the consideration of the report from the committee
of the whole: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the five battalions, now in Massachusetts-Bay, be recruited
to their full complements, and that three additional battalions be raised in the
eastern department, for the service of the continent, the recruits to be taken
into continental pay, so soon as they shall be armed and mustered. *
A letter of the 7th from general Lee, with Sundry papers enclosed, was laid
before Congress, and read: &
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee appointed to take into con-
sideration a former letter of general Lee.
Martin Strobach, lieutenant of marines on board the Hornet sloop, finding
the service by sea to disagree with him, and apprehending he can be of more
use in the land service, begs permission to be discharged from the present ser-
vice he is engaged in, that he may apply for a lieutenancy in the Pennsylvania
artillery company, where there is a vacancy, which he is encouraged to make
application for :
Resolved, That leave be granted to discharge him.
Agreeable to order, Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole,
to take into their farther consideration, the report of the committee on the
eastern department, &c. and, after some time spent thereon, the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the committee have had
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 345
under their farther consideration the matters referred to them, and have come
to sundry resolutions; but, that not having yet finished, they desired him to
move for leave to sit again. -
The resolutions reported from the committee of the whole Congress, being
read, were agreed to as follows:
Resolved, That an additional major-general and brigadier-general be ap-
pointed in the continental army:
That general Washington be directed to order a major-general forthwith to
take the command in the eastern department, and also that he order a briga-
dier-general on that service. -4
Resolved, That the election of the major-general and brigadier-general be
postponed till to-morrow.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a
cammittee of the whole, to take into consideration the resolves of the officers
and petition of the committee of privates of the military association of the city
and liberties of Philadelphia.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee, to whom the
letter from the committee of safety of New-Hampshire, and other papers from
that colony, were referred ; and, thereupon,
Resolved, That one battalion be raised in New-Hampshire for the service
of the United Colonies, and paid and subsisted on the same terms as the con-
tinental troops in the eastern department; the said battalion to be taken into
continental pay, so soon as they shall be armed and mustered.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to send to general Wash-
ington, the muskets that are at Newport.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, JMay 15, 1776.
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania be desired to write
to the committee of safety of Delaware government, to suspend the execution
of the resolve of Congress, for exchanging lieutenant Ball for captain Budden,
till farther orders.
Congress took into consideration the draught of the preamble brought in by
the committee, which was agreed to as follows:
Whereas his Britannic majesty, in conjunction with the lords and commons
of Great-Britain, has, by a late act of parliament, excluded the inhabitants of
these United Colonies from the protection of his crown; and whereas, no
answer, whatever, to the humble petition of the colonies for redress of griev-
ances and reconciliation with Great-Britain, has been or is likely to be given;
but, the whole force of that kingdom, aided by foreign mercenaries, is to be
exerted for the destruction of the good people of these colonies; and whereas,
it appears absolutely irreconcileable to reason and good conscience, for the
people of these colonies now to take the oaths and affirmations necessary for
the support of any government under the crown of Great-Britain, and it is ne-
cessary that the exercise of every kind of authority under the said crown should
be totally suppressed, and all the powers of government exerted, under the au-
thority of the people of the colonies, for the preservation of internal peace,
virtue, and good order, as well as for the defence of their lives, liberties, and
properties, against the hostile invasions and cruel depredations of their ene-
mies; therefore, resolved, &c.
Ordered, That the said preamble, with the resolution passed the 10th instant,
be published. *v
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell to Edward Keasby,
100 lbs. of powder, for the use of the inhabitants of Salem county, in New-
Jersey.
Wol. I. | 44
346 Journals of CONGRESS, 1776.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, JMay 16, 1776.
The following letters were laid before Congress, and read:
One of the 1st, from the commissioners of Congress in Canada:
One of the 10th, from major-general Schuyler, and one, without date, from
general Washington, enclosing a letter to him from Dr. Stringer.
Resolved, That the letter from Dr. Stringer to general Washington, be re-
ferred to the committee appointed to prepare medicine chests:
That the other letters be referred to Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Jefferson, and
Mr. J. Adams. *
Resolved, That the president write to general Washington, requesting him to
repair to Philadelphia as soon as he can conveniently, in order to consult with
Congress upon such measures as may be necessary for the carrying on the en-
suing campaign.
Resolved, That George Morgan, esq., be empowered to draw for a sum not
exceeding six thousand dollars, to pay for the goods he is ordered to purchase,
and for defraying incidental charges; the same to be paid out of the ten thou-
sand dollars voted for the commissioners of Indian affairs in the middle de-
partment.
Whereas captain Richard Butler, by accepting the office of agent in the
middle department of Indians, has lost the opportunity of being appointed a
captain in the continental service;
Resolved, That Congress will, as soon as possible, compensate for that dis-
appointment to him, by some promotion in their service. *
Congress then proceeded to the election of a major-general and brigadier-
general in the continental army; and, the ballots being taken and examined,
Horatio Gates, esq. was elected major-general; and,
Thomas Mifflin, esq. brigadier-general.
º That Mr. Duane be added to the standing committee for Indian
aiſall'S.
A petition from Joseph Carson and Joseph Donaldson, was presented to
Congress, and read: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell to the petitioners 50
lb. of powder.
Resolved, That two of the additional battalions, ordered on the 14th to be
raised in the eastern department, be raised, one in Massachusetts-Bay, and the
other in Connecticut: g
That it be recommended to the general assemblies of Massachusetts-Bay
and Connecticut, to endeavor to have the battalions inlisted for two years, un-
less sooner discharged by Congress; in which case; the men to be allowed one
month’s pay on their discharge; but, if the men cannot be prevailed on to in-
list for two years, that they be inlisted for one; and that they be ordered, as
soon as raised and armed, to march immediately to Boston.
. The committee, to whom the letters from general Washington of the 25th
and 26th of April, and the case of Alexander Ross, and the letter from general
Lee, were referred, brought in their report, which was read. ---
The committee to whom the letter from general Washington of the 11th,
and the letter from general Schuyler of the 3d, and that from captain Robert-
son of the 9th, with other papers, were referred, brought in their report, which
Was read. - * *
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Saturday.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 347
A
ºr wº- >I. —A-
ſº g
*- SATURDAY, JMay 18, 1776.
A letter of the 17th from general Washington, and three from the commis’
sioners in Canada, of the 6th, 8th and 10th, were laid before Congress and read.
Resolved, That the committee, to whom the former letter from the commis-
sioners was referred, be augmented to the number of eight; and, that these
letters be referred to them :
The additional members chosen, Mr. R. Morris, Mr. Duane, Mr. R. H. Lee,
Mr. Rutledge, and Mr. R. R. Livingston. º
The committee to whom was referred the consideration of general Lee's
letters of the 19th of April and 7th of May, brought in their report, which was
greed to: Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Lee's scheme of sending through the colony of Vir-
inia to purchase rifles, be, and is, approved :
That, as the colony of Virginia is intersected with many navigable rivers,
six gallies be built for the protection of the troops in their transportation across
the said rivers, at the continental expense, on as cheap terms as the business
for which they are intended will admit of; that such other defence of the ri-
vers and bays, as shall be requisite for the colony, be at the particular charge
of the inhabitants thereof; And, that general Lee, or the commanding officer
in Virginia, transmit to Congress, as early as possible, an account of the ex-
pense which shall be incurred in consequence of this resolution:
That general Lee, or the commanding officer in Virginia, be directed to set
OI). º the raising of two companies of carpenters, to consist of house and ship
builders:
That general Lee be permitted to order rations and forage for such volun-
teers of horse, not exceeding 500, as shall think proper to attend the service of
their º in the continental army, agreeable to general Lee’s request and
roposal :
P That captain Dohicky Arundel’s journey, to Virginia, be at his own, not
continental expense:
That the pay of the deputy-engineers be raised to 80 dollars a month, and
that they be allowed rations for themselves, and forage for their horses, when
in camp, or necessarily absent on continental duty :
That a continental hospital be established in Virginia, and a director to the
same immediately appointed by Congress:
That the scheme of adding two subalterns and forty privates to the company
of artillery, be adopted :
That the circumstances of affairs in the middle and eastern department will
not admit of Mr. Smith being sent to general Lee :
That Thomas Bullet, esq. the deputy adjutant-general in Virginia, be ad-
vanced to the rank of colonel: §
That from the uncertainty of the enemy’s design, and the number of regi-
ments already sent into Canada, it will be inexpedient, at present, to order
any of the troops, raised in Pennsylvania, or the colonies eastward thereof, to
the southern department; nor, can Congress, at present, supply such troops as
are raised in Virginia, with fire arms; but, that general Lee’s application, on
this subject, be attended to so soon as an importation, sufficiently considerable,
will admit of his being supplied; and, that he be assured, Congress will co-
operate and aid him with their power, to render effectual his laudable endea-
vors to establish the rights and liberties of the good people of this continent.
.The Congress then proceeded to the election of a director of the hospital in
Virginia; and, the ballots being taken,
William Rickman was elected.
Resolved, That the hospital in Virginia be on the same establishment, and
the pay of the officers thereof, the same, as the hospital established in the east-
ern department: - * -
348 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
That two surgeons, one apothecary, six mates, one clerk, one store-keeper,
and a nurse to every ten sick, with labourers occasionally, when necessary, be
allowed to the hospital in Virginia:
• That the director be empowered to nominate the surgeons and apothecary:
That the mates be appointed by the surgeons, and that the number of the
mates be diminished as circumstances will admit; for which reason, the pay is
fixed by the day, that they may only receive pay for actual service. o
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention of Virginia, to raise a
battalion of riflemen, on the same terms as the other battalions raised in that
colony; to be taken into the pay of the continent, when armed and mus-
tered.
Resolved, That general Washington be directed, if the service will permit,
to station a battalion at Amboy.
A petition from Jos. Trumbull, commissary-general, was presented to Con-
ress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee for superintending the
treasury. tº:
The secret committee having informed Congress of the arrival of one of the
vessels fitted out at the expense of the continent, and that she has brought her
returns in cash, 4. º
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to give orders for sending
the said cash, with all convenient despatch, to the commissioners in Canada :
That the hard money in the treasury be immediately forwarded to general
Schuyler.
+. secret committee laid before Congress a letter from Mr. Langdon; and,
the same being read,
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee of secret correspondence,
and that the said committee be directed to apply to the marine committee for
the use of one or more of the continental fleet; and that they send the same
to the French West-India islands, in order to procure, if possible, a number of
muskets, not exceeding 10,000.
A petition from Ignace Labal was presented to Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the commissioners for Indian affairs in the
middle department, who are directed to examine his claim, and pay him out of
the money put into their hands, what they shall judge justly due to him.
Resolved, That Mrs. Connolly be directed not to leave Philadelphia till
father orders of Congress.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, JMay 20, 1776.
Lyman Hall and Button Gwinnett, esqrs. two of the delegates from Georgia,
attended, and produced their credentials; which were read as follows: ,
“In Congress, Savannah, February 2, 1776. Resolved, That five persons
be elected to represent this province in the Continental Congress, for the term
of nine months. Resolved, That it be recommended, that three of the dele-
gates do proceed, with all possible despatch, to Philadelphia, and that they be a
quorum : Provided, nevertheless, that in case three shall not attend, by sick-
ness or otherwise, one or more of the delegates being present, shall be compe-
tent to represent this province, notwithstanding. The Congress proceeded to
ballot for the election of delegates, when, on closing the i. it appeared that
Archibald Bullock, John Houston, Lyman Hall, Button Gwinnett, and George
Walton, esqrs. were duly elected, and were accordingly declared as fit per-
sons to represent this province in the grand Continental Congress.
A true copy: EDWARD LANGWORTHY, Secretary.”
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 349
*.
A letter, of the 10th, from major-general Lee, at Williamsburg, with three
papers enclosed, was laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of five :
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Middleton, Mr.
Paine, and Mr. Wolcott. º
Certain resolutions of the convention of South-Carolina, respecting the bat-
talions raised in that colony; also, certain resolutions passed by the general
assembly of the said colony, respecting the manner in which commissioners,
coming from England, are to be received and treated in that colony, were laid
before Congress, and read. tº º
Resolved, That the resolutions respecting the battalions, be referred to a
committee of five :
The members chosen, Mr. John Adams, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Floyd. Mr. W.
Livingston, and Mr Morton.
The proceedings of the committee of secret correspondence were read.
Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
their farther consideration the state of the United Colonies; and, after some
time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the
committee had taken into their farther consideration the matter referred to
them; but, not having come to a conclusion, desired him to move for leave to
sit again. e
Resolved, That Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a commit-
tee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the state of the Unit-
ed Colonies.
Resolved, That Mr. Rutledge, at his request, be discharged from serving on
the marine committee, and that Mr. Middleton be a member of the said com-
mittee in his stead.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
º
TUESDAY, JMay 21, 1776.
Sundry letters and papers were laid before Congress, and read, viz.
Three letters from general Washington, of the 18th, 19th and 20th, enclos-
ing sundry letters and papers of intelligence from England, and a copy of the
treaties made by his Britannic majesty with the duke of Brunswick, for 4,084 of
his troops; with the landgrave of Hesse Cassel, for 12,000 of his troops; and
with the count of Hanau for 668 of his troops:
A letter from William Palfrey, with a copy of his weekly account:
A letter from John Langdon to general Washington:
A petition from Samuel Austin, John Rowe, S. Pattridge, Samuel Dashwood,
and John Scolly, of Boston :
Resolved, That the said letters, and papers and petition, be referred to a
committee of five ; that the said committee be directed to extract and publish
the treaties, and such parts of the intelligences as they think proper; also, to
consider of an adequate reward for the person who brought the intelligence;
and that they prepare an address to the foreign mercenaries who are coming to
invade America: . *
The members chosen, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Jefferson, Mr.
R. H. Lee, and Mr. Shérman.
Congress took into consideration the report respecting prisoners, which was
agreed to as follows: * **,
Resolved, That all persons taken in arms on board any prize, be deemed
prisoners, to be taken care of by the supreme executive power in each colony to
which they are brought, whether the prize be taken by vessels fitted out by the
continent, or by others: *
That such as are taken,
be treated as prisoners of war, but with humanity,
and be allowed the same r p 5 y
ations as the troops in the service of the United Co-
350 Journals OF CONGRESS, 1776. wº
3– A–
lonies; but that such as are officers supply themselves, and be allowed to draw
bills to pay for their subsistence and clothing :
That officers made prisoners in the land service, be allowed the same indul-
€IMCC :
That the officers be not permitted to reside in or near any seaport town, nor
public post-road; and that the officers and privates be not suffered to reside in
the same places: &
That in case the officers cannot draw or sell their bills, the Congress will al-
low for each of them, two dollars a week for board and lodgings, to be repaid
by said officers before they are released from their captivity: N.
That no tavern-keepers supply any officers, who are prisoners, on the credit
of the continent:
That the capitulations entered into with prisoners, at the time of their sur-
render, be punctually observed:
That such officers as surrender prisoners of war, be put on their parole, un-
less Congress shall otherwise direct:
That the form of the parole be as follows: -
I , being made a prisoner of war by the army of the thirteen Unit-
ed Colonies, in North-America, do promise ... engage, on my word and honor,
and on the faith of a gentleman, to depart from hence to —, in the pro-
vince of—, being the place of my destination and residence, and there,
or within six miles thereof, to remain during the present war between Great-
Britain and the said United Colonies, or until the Congress of the said United
Colonies, or the assembly, convention, or committee, or council of safety of the
said colony, shall order otherwise ; and that I will not, directly or indirectly,
give any intelligence whatsoever to the enemies of the United Colonies, or do
or say anything in opposition to, or in prejudice of the measures and pro-
ceedings of any Congress for the said colonies, during the present troubles, or
until I am duly exchanged or discharged. Given under my hand, this day
of A. D. 1776.
That the said parole be signed by the officers: *
That such as refuse to subscribe the parole, be committed to prison :
That David Franks, esq. agent to the contractors for victualling the troops of
the king of Great-Britain, be permitted to supply the prisoners with provisions
and other necessaries, and to sell his bills for such sums of money as are ne-
cessary for that purpose: , ,
And, to enable him to do this to the satisfaction of his employers, that a com-
missioned officer be permitted, once a month, to visit the prisoners so victualled
and supplied, in order to count their numbers and certify the rolls:
That such of the prisoners as are not supplied by Mr. Franks, be furnished
with provisions not exceeding the rations allowed to privates in the service of
the continent.
That the women and children belonging to prisoners, be furnished with sub-
sistence, and supplied with firing and other things absolutely necessary for
their support: *
That no prisoners be inlisted in the continental army :
That the prisoners be permitted to exercise their trades, and to labor, in or-
der to support themselves and families :
That the Committees of inspection and observation, for the counties, districts,
or towns, assigned for the residence of prisoners, be empowered to superintend
their conduct, and, in cases of gross misbehavior, to confine them, and report
to their respective assemblies, conventions, or committees, or councils of safety,
the proceedings had on such occasions:
That a list of the prisoners in each colony be made out by the committees of
the counties, towns, or districts where they reside, and transmitted to the as-
sembly, convention, or council or committee of safety of such colony, respectiver
ly, who shall send a copy thereof to Congress.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 35 [.
_ =
-P-
--
That the said assemblies, conventions, and committees or councils of safety,
be empowered to contract, with proper persons, for the most reasonable terms
for supplying such of the prisoners, their wives and children, in their respec-
tive colony, as are not supplied by Mr. Franks:
That the said assemblies, conventions, and committees or councils of safety,
be authorized and requested, to take the paroles of the officers, and to cause
a strict observance of the terms on which they are enlarged, and also to take
especial care, that none of those confined by order of the Congress, be suffered
to escape; also, to advance the allowance of two dollars a week to each of the
officers who cannot draw or sell their bills, and to draw for the same on the
president of the Congress: *
That the said assemblies, conventions, committees or councils of safety of
the colonies, respectively, in which prisoners are or shall choose or be appoint-
ed to reside, be empowered to remove such prisoners from place to place, with-
in the same colonies, as often as to such assemblies, conventions, committees
or councils of safety, it shall seem proper, having-regard to the former resolu-
tions of Congress concerning prisoners.
The committee, to whom the letter, of the 10th, from general Lee, was re-
ferred, brought in their report, which was read, and after some debate,
Resolved, That the farther consideration thereof be postponed till the ar-
rival of general Washington.
A letter from Allan M*Donald, a prisoner at Reading, to John Nixon, esq.
president of the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, was laid before Congress,
and read. S
The committee to whom the letters from general Washington, major-gene-
ral Schuyler, and the commissioners in Canada, were referred, brought in
their report, which was read.
Resolved, That the consideration thereof be postponed till to-morrow.
The committee for superintending the treasury, to whom it was referred to
consider and report a plan for carrying into effect, the resolution of Congress
for emitting five millions of dollars, brought in their report, which was read:
Resolved, That the consideration thereof be postponed till to-morrow.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, JMay 22, 1776.
A petition from James M*Knight was presented to Congress, and read.
A report being made on the petition of P. Simons, the same was taken into
consideration: Whereupon,
Pesolved, That it appears James M*Knight hath proceeded in the sale of
the sloºp Sally and her cargo, contrary to the mode prescribed, and without .
any authority from Congress: *
. That the resolution passed the 4th of April, “empowering the committee of
inspectiºn and observation of the county of Burlington, to make sale of the
sloop #. the cargo on board, and to pay one-half of the net proceeds to
James Mºnight for salvage, and retain the other half for the owner or owners,”
be set aside.
Resolved, That it be an instruction to the marine committee, to procure an ex-
act account of the number and weight of the cannon lately taken at Providence.
Cºngress resumed the consideration of the report on the letters from general
Washington, &c. received the 16th and 18th; Whereupon, **
Resolved, That the instructions given to Mr. Price by major-general Schuy-
ler be approved: That general Schuyler be directed to take any farther mea-
sures for supplying the army in Canada with provisions, which his prudence
nº suggest, in which Congress place the highest confidence:
. That general Schuyler beinformed of the difficulty of procuring specie, and
tirected, as far as possible, to remedy that inconvenience, by purchasing such
*
352 * JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776,
necessaries as can be obtained in these colonies, and to appoint store-keepers,
and other officers, for the sale and distribution thereof:
That general Schuyler be informed, that Congress have in view these two
great objects, the protection and assistance of our Canadian friends, and the
securing so much of that º as may prevent any communication between
our enemies and the Indians: The means of effecting these purposes by for-
tifying proper posts, building armed vessels where most expedient, opening
roads of communication, or otherwise, are left to the determination of a coun-
cil or councils of war, governing themselves by events and their knowledge of
the country:
That general Washington, or the commanding officer at New-York, be di-
rected to send from thence to Ticonderoga, so many light cannon as will be
sufficient to arm the vessels now in lake Champlain:
That the attention of the commissioners in Canada to the restoration of or-
der and discipline, and to the punishment of those by whom they are violated,
deserves the approbation of Congress: ,”
That the specie now in the treasury, and as much more as can be procured, not
exceeding the sum of one hundred thousand dollars, to be immediately remit-
ted to the commissioners for the payment of debts due from these colonies in
Canada, and for the preservation of public credit:
That the commissioners in Canada be directed, if necessary, to appoint pro-
per persons to collect and audit the public accounts in that province:
That the commissioners in Canada, and general Schuyler, be informed, that
we cannot give them any assurance of maintaining our army there by hard
money; but, that this ought not to discourage our operations, Congress being
determined to send, from these colonies, supplies of provisions and all other
necessaries, if hard money cannot be obtained ; and that, in the mean time,
the best endeavors shall be used to procure the sum of one hundred thousand
dollars:
That some person or persons be employed by the president in New-England,
as an agent, or agents, to procure, if possible, hard money, to the amount of
, one hundred thousand dollars, and as soon as a considerable sum is obtained,
the said agents be directed to transmit the same to the commissioners of Con-
gress in Canada, for the use of the army, there, and in case of the absence of
the commissioners, the same to be delivered to the deputy pay-master general:
That such presents be made to the Indians on the delivery of the hatchet,
as the commissioners in Canada think prudent:
That 500,000 dollars be sent as soon as possible to general Schuyler.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
On sundry certificates exhibited by Joseph Donaldson, the sum of 467.6 dol-
lars, and that the same ought to be paid to Robert M*Pherson, esq. and
Captain Dowdle's company, charged with - * * 13 1-3 dollars.
Captain Nelson's company, charged with - - - 26.8
Captain James Grier, for a rifle, with wº sº ſº 9 1-3
Captain Cressop's company, for rifles, with - º gº 24.5
Captain Stevenson’s company with - - - - 8 2-3
The remainder to the continent :
To Robert Erwin, wagon-master, for transporting salt-petre from Egg-Har-
bor, the sum of 117.4 dollars: ^,
To Robert Patton, for 163 days attendance as a messenger, the sum of 108.7
dollars : }
To Hugh Hodge, for medicines for the third Pennsylvania battalion, the
sum of 27.4 dollars:
To Samuel Kennedy, surgeon to the fourth Pennsylvania.battalion, the sum
of 14.1 dollars:
To Michael Whitman, for provision furnished 'prisoners from St. John’s,
the sum of £ 1 15 6, Pennsylvania currency, and that the same ought to be ,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 353
–sº
paid to Adam Kimmel, together with two-thirds of a dollar omitted to be
charged in a former account rendered by him, the whole amounting to 5.8
dollars. gº
On several accounts rendered by major Nicholas Hausegger, for necessaries
for the fourth Pennsylvania battalion, the sum of 203.7 dollars, and that the
same ought to be paid to him : - -
To Christian Levy, for a rifle, the sum of 8 dollars, which ought to be
charged to captain Nelson : * gº
To major N. Hausegger, for divers expenses paid by him, the sum of
34.4 dollars : t tº
To John Barnes for boarding officers, prisoners at Trenton, the sum of 77.8
dollars; of which sum,
24 dollars.
Dr. Nuddleston to be charged with - - - - -
Lieutenant Namar, º dº tº * > * † sº s 24 do.
Major Regonville, - * * sº º se gºe tº 16, do.
* * sº 13.3 do.
Lieutenant Symes, * tº gº wº U- • * tº
On several accounts exhibited by Lewis Gordon, esq. for sundry necessaries
furnished by Northampton committee to captain Nelson’s and captain Craig's
companies, the sum of 1310.1 dollars; of which there ought to be charged,
To captain Craig’s company, - * * gº gº tºº 1205.7 dollars.
And to captain Nelson’s company, - - - - 7.2 do.
The remainder to the continent:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That general Washington be empowered to appoint an assistant-
clerk to his secretary, with the pay of 40 dollars per month.
Resolved, That an order for 10,500 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favor of the delegates of Connecticut, to be by them transmitted to the go-
vernor and council of the said colony, for the use of the battalion ordered to
be raised there by a resolution of the 16th instant, the said governor and coun-
cil to be accountable.
That an order for 21,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in favor of the
delegates of Massachusetts-Bay, to be by them transmitted to the assembly of
the said colony, for the use of the two battalions ordered to be raised there by
the resolution above mentioned, the said assembly to be accountable.
That the pay of the said three battalions commence from the time they are
armed and mustered : W
That an order for 10,500 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in favor of the
delegates of New-Hampshire, to be then transmitted to the council of the said
colony, for the use of the battalion ordered to be raised there, by a resolution of
the 14th instant, the said council to be accountable.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee for super-
intending the treasury: Whereupon,
. Resolved. That the five millions of dollars, directed to be emitted in con-
tinental bills of credit, shall consist of the following denominations:
138,889 tº - of 1 dollar. 138,889 tº - of 5 dollars.
138,889 wº - of 2 dollars. 138,889 sº - of 6 dollars,
138,889 - - of 3 dollars. 138,889 - - of 7 dollars.
138,889 - - of 4 dollars. 138,889 - - of 8 dollars.
That the inspectors of the press for the last emission, be directed and au-
thorized, to perform that service for the present emission, being first qualified
agreeable to the resolution of Congress, passed the 21st of February last:
That the gentlemen appointed to sign and number the bills of credit of the
last emission, be authorized to sign and number the bills of credit of five mil-
º ..". º . to be emitted, taking, before they shall enter upon
heir office, the oath or affirmation prescribed by the resolu f * * * *
the 9th of March last: prescribed by the 1 wn of Congress of
Vol. I. 45
354 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
That the plates engraved for the two last emissions, shall be used in the
emission now directed, and that the bills be expressed in the following *
Dollar
This bill entitles the bearer to receive Spanish milled dollars, or the
value thereof in gold or silver, according to a resolution of Congress, passed
at Philadelphia the 9th of May, 1776.
That the said billsbe signed by two signers, and each different denomination
numbered from number one progressively.
The committee, appointed to examine and ascertain the value of the several
species of gold and silver coins current in these colonies, and the proportions
they ought respectively to bear to Spanish milled dollars, brought in their re-
port, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, JMay 23, 1776.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to confer with general
Washington, major-general Gates, and brigadier-general Mifflin, upon the
§. º and effectual means for supporting the American cause in
alſº a Clà 3
The members chosen, Mr. Harrison, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. J. Adams, Mr.
Wilson, and Mr. Rutledge.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to contract for the making fire-arms,
be directed to order the manager of the continental factory of fire-arms, at
Lancaster, and the manager of the gun-lock factory at Trenton, to deliver to
colonel Shee, or his order, all the muskets and gun-locks that each of them
rhay have ready, in order to the more expeditious arming the continental bat-
talion under his command :
That the said committee be directed to bring in a resolution for promoting
and encouraging the making of good fire-arms.
A letter from Charles Miller to Joseph Trumbull, esq. commissary-general,
was laid before Congress, and read: - º *
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of three :
The members chosen, Mr. Whipple, Mr. Gerry, and Mr. F. Lee.
Resolved, As the opinion of this Congress, that James M*Knight ought to
restore to the owners the money found on board the sloop Sally, and also the
ffects, or the money he received for the effects, on board the said sloop, at
the time she was run on shore, and for the wreck, tackle and furniture of the
said sloop ; which effects, wreck, tackle, and furniture, were sold or pretended
to be . or secreted by him, the said James M*Knight.
Ordered, That general Washington attend in Congress to-morrow.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JMay 24, 1776.
A letter from Mrs. Abi. Grant was laid before Congress and read, requesting
permission to return to her husband and family in London, and to take on
board necessary stores for the voyage:
Resolved, That her request be granted, and that the president give her a
passport to the place where she shall choose to embark. *
The committee for superintending the treasury, to whom was referred the
account and claim of captain Herman Allen, of lieutenant-colonel Warner’s
battalion, brought in their report, which was agreed to: Whereupon,
Resolved; That there be allowed to captain Herman, Allen, for sundry dis-
bursements for the use of his company, the sum of 360 dollars, over and above
the account allowed by the convention of New-York, amounting to £, 240 18,
New-York currency.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 355
The committee, to whom was referred the petition of Joseph Trumbull, esq.
commissary-general, brought in their report, which was taken into considera-
tion and agreed to ; Whereupon, e
Resolved, That there be allowed to the several persons under mentioned,
employed in the commissary-general’s department, in the continental army, the
wages and rations annexed to their names respectively, during the time they
have been, and shall continue, in the service of the United Colonies:
In the issuing store at Cambridge:
Charles Miller, issuing store-keeper, 50 dollars per month, and 4 rations :
Peter Roe Dalton, first clerk, 4s 8, lawful money, a day, and 3 rations:
Ebenezer Perry, and Thomas Durant, clerks in store,3s 4 do. and 2 rations :
William Brown, and Josiah Brown, clerks at scales, 3s 4 do. and 2 do rations :
Robert Davis, clerk of weekly allowances, 3s 4 do. and 2 do.
Eight laborers, one cooper, and one cook, each 2s 8, lawful money, a day,
and 1 ration:
Employed to issue to two brigades.
• In the store at Roacbury :
Aaron Blaney, issuing store-keeper, 50 dollars per month, and 4 rations:
James Richardson, first clerk, 4s 8, lawful money, a day, and 3 rations:
Two clerks in store, and two at scales, each 3s 4 do. and 2 rations:
Six labourers, one cooper and one cook, each 2s 8 do. and 1 do.
Employed to issue to two brigades.
On Prospect Hill:
Peter Philips, issuing store-keeper, 40 dollars a month, and 4 rations:
Griffin Green, first clerk, 4s 8, lawful money, a day, and 3 rations:
One clerk in store, and one at scales, each 3s 4, lawful money, a day, and
2 rations:
One cooper, and four laborers, each 2s 8 do. and 1 do.
Employed to issue to one brigade.
Jit JMedford:
Moses Emerson, issuing store-keeper, 40 dollars a month, and 4 rations:
Israel Mead, first clerk, 4s 8, lawful money, a day, and 3 rations:
One clerk in store, and one at scales, 3s 4 do. and 2 do.
One cooper, and four laborers, each 2s 8 do, and 1 do.
Employed to issue to one brigade.
In the magazine at Cambridge:
Samuel Gray, Reuben Stiles, and Daniel Brown, clerks and magazinekeepers,
4s 8, lawful money, a day, and 3 rations:
One cooper, 2s. 8, lawful money, a day, and 1 ration.
In the magazine at Roacbury :
Jabez Porter, and James Jauncey Pendleton, clerks and magazine keepers,
4s 8, lawful money, a day, and 3 rations: r",
One cooper, 2s 8 do. and 1 do.
Joseph Farnsworth, commissary to colonel Arnold’s detachment, returned
from Fort-Halifax, aſ 10, lawful money, a month, and 3 rations per day :
John Thomas, employed constantly in riding to collect stores, procure teams,
&c., himself and horse, 8s, lawful money, a day, and 3 rations:
William Hoskins, and Elisha Avery, principal book-keepers and payers of
small bills; #10, lawful money a month, and 3 rations per day, º
Resolved, That an addition of forty dollars a month be made to the pay of
the commissary-general. \ *.
The committee appointed to confer with his excellency general Washington,
major-general Gates, and brigadier-general Mifflin, brought in their report;
which, being taken into consideration, was agreed to: Whereupon,
^
**.
, 356 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
-**
Resolved, That the commanding officer in Canada, be informed, that Con-
gress are fully convinced of the absolute necessity of keeping possession of
that country, and that they expect the forces in that department will contest
every foot of the ground with the enemies of these colonies; and, as Congress
have in view the cutting off all communication between the upper country and
the enemy, they judge it highly necessary that the exertions of the forces be
particularly made on the St. Lawrence, below the mouth of the Sorell:
That the commanding officer in Canada be directed to make exact and fre-
quent returns of men, provisions and military stores in the Canadian depart-
ment, to the general º commander in chief of the United Colonies:
That general Schuyler be desired to take care that the army in Canada be
regularly and effectually supplied with necessaries:
That the troops ordered for Canada be hastened into that country so soon as
provisions can be forwarded for their support:
That the commanding officer in Canada be assured of the resolution of Con-
gress, to afford him every support, in his endeavors to carry their views into
execution.
Resolved, That Mr. R. R. Livingston be added to the committee of con-
ference; and they be directed farther to confer with the generals, touching the
most proper posts, and measures to be taken for effectually preventing the
enemy’s communication with the upper country from Canada, and such other
measures as shall tend to secure the frontiers.
Agreeable to order, general Washington attended in Congress, and, after
some conference with him,
Resolved, That he be directed to attend again to-morrow.
A letter of the 26th of April from the convention of North-Carolina, with
a list of prisoners by them sent to Pennsylvania, was laid before Congress,
and read: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the said letter and list be sent to the committee of safety
of Pennsylvania, and that they be desired to have the said prisoners properly
and safely secured and provided for, agreeably to the resolutions of Congress,
at the expense of the United Colonies.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Jacob Hiltzheimer, for sundry expresses, the sum of 372.3 dollars.
To captain Nathaniel Falconer, for his and Mr. Ashe’s expenses, together
with the expenses of two servants going to New-York, with money, and re-
turning, the sum of 98.5 dollars: s
To Daniel Smith, for expenses of guards, &c. at the city tavern, over brigaº
dier-general Prescot, and captain Chase, the sum of 118 dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Sundry resolutions, passed by the convention of Maryland, were laid before
Congress, and read.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. t
SATURDAY, JMay 25, 1776.
A letter from colonel William Wind, dated the 18th, and a petition from
the committee of the county of Lincoln, were presented to Congress; also a
rººm from John Wilcox, and John and Peter Chevalier, was presented and
TCàOle
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell to the petitioners,
John Wilcox, and John and Peter Chevalier, 75 lb. of gun-powder.
That the said committee be directed to deliver to the committee of safety of
Pennsylvania, half a ton of powder, in order to prove cannon, the said com-
mittee to be accountable.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. ' 357
f
se-–
Resolved, That an order for 20,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favor of James Mease, commissary, for the use of the Pennsylvania battalions,
he to be accountable:
That, Mr. J. Mease be directed to provide a stock of shoes, hats, and stock-
ings for the use of the troops in the continental service, on the most reason-
able terms.
A petition from James MPKnight was presented to Congress and read.
Ordered, To lie on the table.
A memorial from the committee of inspection and observation of the city and
liberties of Philadelphia, was presented to Congress and read :
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Ordered, That a copy of said memorial be delivered to Mr. R. Morris, who
desires the same in behalf of the assembly of Pennsylvania.
Resolved, That an order for 65,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in fa-
vor of the delegates of Virginia, for the use of the battalions raised in that co-
lony, the said colony to be accountable.
Ågreeable to order, general Washington attended, and after some conference
with him,
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to confer with his excellency gen.
Washington, major-general Gates, and brigadier-general Mifflin, and to con-
cert a plan of military operations for the ensuing campaign.
The members appointed, Mr. Harrison, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. J. Adams, Mr.
Wilson, Mr. R. R. Livingston, Mr. Whipple, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Hopkins, Mr.
§: ºwn. Mr. Read, Mr. Tilghman, Mr. Hewes, Mr. Middleton, and
r. Hall.
The committee of safety of Pennsylvania, to whom were referred the letter
from the convention of North-Carolina, and the list of the prisoners sent from
thence, having appointed colonel Roberdeau to wait upon Congress and inform
them that the prisoners are arrived, and that they have ordered them to be close-
ly confined, and have appointed an officer’s guard for their better security; and
farther, to enquire what allowance for subsistence is to be granted them :
Resolved, That the disposition of the prisoners, made by the committee of
safety, is approved, and that they have the allowance granted to other officers
who are prisoners.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the
letter from general Washington, of the 11th of May, the letter from general
Schuyler, of the 3d, and the letter from captain Daniel Robertson, of the royal
Highland emigrant regiment, of the 9th, which was in part agreed to : Where-
upon,
Resolved, That lieutenant-colonel Burbeck be dismissed from the continen-
tal service.
That a letter be witten to the president of the convention of Virginia, re-
Questing that they will immediately forward to Philadelphia such quantity of
lead, as can be spared from that colony:
..That one battalion of Germans be raised for the service of the United Colo-
IllCS :
That general Schuyler be empowered to increase the number of batteaus to
two hundred'.
That four of the prisoners taken at St. Johns, and suggested, by the letter
from captain Robertson, to have inlisted in the continental army, viz.
William Roughhead and Elisha Grisler, in captain Hubley’s company; John
Stanton, in Captain Brown's company; and John Mayot, in a company unknown,
be dismissed the service and return to their corps at Lancaster.
Resolved, That the consideration of the first paragraphin said report be post-
poned, and that the third and fifth paragraphs be referred to the committee ap-
pointed to confer with the generals.
*.
358 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
—-ºh
A number of deputies, from four of the Six Nations of Indians, having arrived
in town, and notified Congress that they are desirous of an audience,
º, That they be admitted to an audience on Monday next, at eleven
o'clock.
Ordered, That notice be given to the colonels of the association of the city
and liberties of Philadelphia, to draw out their battalions in review, on Monday
morning, as early as they can conveniently; and that the Congress, with the
generals in town, will attend the review at nine o’clock.
Resolved, That the arms, ammunition, and military stores, taken by the arm-
ed schooner Franklin, or any other of the armed vessels in the pay of the Unit-
ed Colonies, be at the disposal of the general or commander in chief of the
American forces.
The committee, to whom the resolutions of the convention of South-Caro-
lina, respecting the battalions raised in that colony, were referred, brought in
their report, which was read.
Resolved, That the several reports on general Washington’s letters, not yet
considered, and the general’s letters which were referred to a committee of the
whole ºngº, be committed to the committee appointed to confer with the
Cú Cl’allS,
§ As two of the committee to whom the letter from colonel Hand, of the rifle
battalion, was referred, are absent,
JResolved, 'That two other members be chosen in their room :
The members elected, Mr. Wilson and Mr. Wolcott.
The committee to whom was referred the letter from Charles Miller to the
commissary general, brought in their report, which was read and agreed to :
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the commissary general be directed to order so much of the
provisions stored in the continental magazine in Massachusetts-Bay, to be deli-
vered, for victualling the five ships of war, now building at Portsmouth, New-
buryport, and Providence, as the marine committee shall direct; and to keep
the residue for the use of the continental arthy, that is or may be stationed in
the eastern department.
That the commissary-general be directed to receive the amount of the pork,
beef, and fish, supplied the colony of Massachusetts-Bay, and credit the same
in his account with the United Colonies.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, JMay 27, 1776.
A letter of the 16th from George Morgan, esq. to Lewis Morris, esq. was
laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the standing committee on Indian affairs.
A petition from Samuel de Lucena was presented to Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee for promoting the manufacture
of sulphur and salt-petre.
A petition from the committee of the county of Monmouth, in the colony of
New-Jersey, was presented to Congress, and read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to send forward with all
convenient despatch, one ton of powder, lent for the defence of the western
frontier; of which 800 lb. to be lodged in Fort Pitt, 600 lb. with the commit-
tee of West-Augusta, and 600 lb. with the committee of Westmoreland, to
be used only in case that country is attacked.
Agreeable to order the Indians were admitted to an audience. After they
withdrew, *
Resolved, That the standing committee for Indian affairs, be directed to
JóURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 359
prepare a speech, to be delivered to the Indians, and to procure such articles as
they judge proper for a present: .. ºn tº
The delegates from North-Carolina, and the delegates from Virginia, laid
before Congress, certain instructions which they received from their respective
conventions. *
Resolved, That the sum of 30,000 dollars be transmitted to the assembly of
Massachusetts-Bay, to be by them exchanged for silver and gold, for the
Canada expedition, agreeable to a former resolution of Congress.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, JMay 28, 1776.
Resolved, That colonel Turbutt Francis be desired to attend at the next
conference with the Indians, and assist in interpreting for them.
The committee, to whom it was referred to consider of a mode for regulat-
ing the price of salt, brought in their report, which was read :
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
wed NESDAY, May 29, 1776.
A letter from general Wooster, of the 27th of April last, and a letter from
William Palfrey, with a weekly account from the 19th to 25th May inclusive,
were laid before Congress, and read.
A petition from captain Budden was presented to Congress and read;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That midshipman Draper be offered in exchange for captain
William Budden.
A letter from Levi Hollingsworth, and Thomas Richardson, to the commit-
tee of safety of Pennsylvania, dated Newport, 21st instant, also a memorial from
sundry members of the general assembly of Rhode-Island, were presented to
Congress, and read :
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The committee appointed to confer with the generals, brought in a report,
which was read and considered :
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be postponed till to-
（101 TOW.
Fesolved, That the committee have leave to sit again.
A letter from Mr. Jay, introducing a foreigner to the notice of Congress,
was presented and read: J.
Resolved, That it be referred to the secret committee, and that they be di-
rected to confer with the gentleman.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
For ferriages of two brass field-pieces, sent to Virginia, the sum of 6 dollars,
and that the same ought to be paid to James Davidson : *-
To Walter Stewart for his expenses in going on board the Liverpool frigate,
the sum of 8 15-90 dollars:
To David Lenox, for his expenses going to New-York as an escort of money,
the sum of 62 68-90 dollars:
To William Sheppard, for wagon-hire on two journies to New-York, and
i. journey to Port-Royal, in Virginia, with general Lee, the sum of 1024-90
Ollal'S :
On several certificates for entertaining general Lee's guard, the sum of 37
78-90 dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to George Ross, esq.
To Robert Erwin, for wagonage of gun-powder to the city of New-York
the sum of 414 dollars. gonag gun-pow y ew ork,
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
360 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
\
|
The said committee farther reported, that captain John Lowdon had laid
before them, an account of the expenditure of money paid into his hands, for
the purpose of raising a company of riflemen, amounting to the sum of 582
7-90 dollars:
Transporting baggage from Northumberland to Reading, 40 dollars:
Amount of divers articles ordered to be charged to captain Lowdon, which
now appear to be continental charges, 50 3-90 dollars:
Amount of John Harris, and Elias Younkman’s bills, which have been twice
paid, and twice charged to captain Lowdon, and which ought now to be charged
to the committee of Berks, 86 44-90 dollars:
The whole amounting to 758 54-90 dollars:
Ordered, That captain Lowdon be credited with the above sum, and that the
committee of Berks county be charged with the sum above-mentioned.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, JMay 30, 1776.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the mode
of regulating the price of salt; and, thereupon, came to the following resolu-
tion:
Whereas it hath been represented to Congress, that avaricious, ill-designing
men, have taken the advantage of the resolve of Congress, passed the 30th of
April, for withdrawing, from the committees of inspection, the power of regu-
lating the price of goods, to extort from the people a most exorbitant price for
salt: y
Resolved, That it be recommended to the committees of observation and in-
spection in the United Colonies, so to regulate the price of salt, as to prevent
unreasonable exactions on the part of the seller, having due regard to the
difficulty and risque of importation; subject, however, to such regulations as
have been, or shall hereafter be made, by the legislatures of the respective
colonies.
The committee, to whom the letter from Joseph Woodward, chairman of the
committee of the New-Hampshire grants, was referred, and who were directed
to hear the persons mentioned in the said letter, brought in their report, which
was read.
The committee to whom it was referred to consider of an adequate reward
for the person who brought the late intelligence from England, brought in
their report; Whereupon,
Resolved, That he receive his pay, being a soldier in captain Morgan’s com-
pany of riflemen, to be continued from the time of his captivity until the 15th
day of June next, and a gratuity of one hundred dollars.
A petition from captain Herman Allen was presented to Congress, and read.
Resolved, That six of the heaviest cannon at Newport, and fourteen of the
heaviest cannon at New-London, belonging to the continent, be transported
to Philadelphia as soon as possible:
That a copy of the above resolution be transmitted to the governors of Rhode-
Island and Connecticut.
Congress then took into consideration the report of the committee appointed
to confer with his excellency general Washington, major-general Gates, and
brigadier-general Mifflin; and, after some debate, i
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of the whole Congress.
Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into con-
sideration the report of the committee of conference; and, after some time
spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported,
that the committee have taken into consideration the matter referred to them,
and have come to a resolution thereon ; but, not having had time to go through
the whole, desired him to move for leave to sit again.
\
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 361
-** **
The resolution reported from the committee of the whole Congress being
read, was agreed to as follows: f
Resolved, That the general be authorized to direct the building as many
fire-rafts, row-gallies, armed boats, and floating-batteries as may be necessary,
and suitable for the immediate defence of the port of New-York, and Hudson’s
T1Wer.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the report of
the committee of conference.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JMay 31, 1776.
A letter of the 22d from commodore E. Hopkins, enclosing the proceedings
of two courts-martial on John Hazard, commander of the sloop Providence,
and Abraham Whipple, commander of the Columbus, was laid before Congress,
and read: -*..
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee on the instructions given to
commodore Hopkins.
A letter of the 21st from Jonathan Trumbull, deputy pay-master general ;
and a petition from Hugh King, in behalf of himself and others, were laid be-
fore Congress, and read. *
Resolved, That an order for 50,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favor of brigadier-general Mifflin, to enable him to pay for tents, entrenching
tools, and sundry, other articles, which he, as quarter-master general, has
* in Philadelphia, for the use of the continental army; he to be account-
able.
The committee of conference brought in a farther report, which was read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee of the whole Congress.
Resolved, That John Connolly, John Smith, and Allan Cameron, three of
the prisoners confined in the gaol of Philadelphia, who are represented to be
in a dangerous state of health, be permitted, for the recovery of their health,
to walk two hours in the day in the yard of the prison, in company with, or un-
der the inspection of at least two of the guards.
Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into their
farther consideration the reports of the committee of conference; and, after
some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison
reported, that the committee have taken into their further consideration the
matters to them referred, but, not having yet finished, desired him to move for
leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the reports of
the committee of conference.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. *
SATURDAY, June 1, 1776.
Letters from the committees of Hartford and Northampton, in Connecticut,
respecting prisoners, being laid before Congress and .
esolved, That they be referred to the committee on prisoners.
A letter of the 37th of May from governor Trumbull was also read; and a
letter from colonel J. Read, imforming, that, upon his arrival at New-York,
finding a gentleman of character and abilities performing the services of se!
cretary.With satisfaction to the general, he was induced to request, and has
obtained the general’s leave, to resign that office. * …"
Wol, I. 46
362 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
_*-
Æ-A-
X-
The committee on Indian affairs, to whom it was referred to consider of a
proper Fº for the Indians, brought in their report: Whereupon,
esolved, That the said committee be empowered and directed to purchase
i. for a present to the Indians, to an amount not exceeding 426 60-90
dollars.
The Congres then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
their farther consideration, the report of the committee of conferrence ; and,
after some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Har-
rison reported, that the committee had taken into further consideration the mat-
ters to them referred, and come to some resolutions, which they desired him
to report; but, not having yet come to a conclusion, directed him to move for
leave to sit again.
The report from the committee of the whole Congrees was read: Where-
upon, .*
Resolved, That six thousand militia be employed to reinforce the army in
Canada, and to keep up the communication with that province ; to make up
which number, z
Resolved, That the colony of Massachusetts-Bay, be requested to supply,
of their militia 3000 - 4 battalions.
Connecticut, of their militia 1500 - 2 battalions.
New-Hampshire, of their militia 750 - 1 battalion.
New-York, of their militia 750 - 1 battalion.
Resolved, That the further consideration of the report be postponed till
Monday next.
Resolved, That the Congress will, on Monday next, again resolve itself into
a committee of the whole, to take into their further consideration the report of
the committee of conference. -
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Anthony Fricker, for boarding the Scots hostages from the 22d of
March to the 4th of June instant, 246 78-90 dollars: t
To Samuel Patterson, for wagon-hire and dining the prisoners brought from
North-Carolina, the sum of 7 60-90 dollars, and that the same ought to be
paid to Thomas M'Kean, esq.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Mondoy next.
MONDAY, June 8, 1776.
Sundry letters received by general Washington, were laid before Congress,
and read. e” º,
Resolved, That an order be drawn on the treasurers, for 1066 2-3 dollars, in
favor of Ephraim Blaine, esq. in advance, for the purchase of shoes, to be sent
to Williamsburg, for the use of the continental army; he to be accountable.
The committee of conference brought in a farther report, which was read :
Resolved, That the same be referred to the committee of the whole Congress.
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take
into their farther consideration, the reports of the committee of conference;
and, after some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr.
Harrison reported, that the committee have had under consideration the mat-
ters to them referred, and have come to sundry resolutions thereon, which
they have directed him to report; but, not having yet come to a conclusion,
desired him to move for leave to sit again. -
The report from the committee of the whole Congress being read, was agreed
to : Whereupon,
Resolved, That 13,800 militia be employed to reinforce the army at New-
York ; to complete which number, º
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 363
Tresolved, That the colony of Massachusetts-Bay be requested to furnish of
their militia 2000
Connecticut of their militia 5500
New-York, of their militia 3000
New-Jersey, of their militia 3300
. Resolved, Ás the opinion of Congress, that the eleven battalions, raised and
ordered to be raised for the protection of the four New-England colonies, are
sufficient.
Resolved, That a flying camp be immediately established in the middle colo-
nies; and, that it consist of 10,000 men ; to complete which number, e
Resolved, That the colony of Pennsylvania be requested to furnish of their
militia 6000
Maryland, of their militia 3400
Delaware government, of their militia 600
Resolved, That the militias be engaged to the first day of December next,
unless sooner discharged by Congress;
That the pay of the militias commence from the day of their marching from
home, and that they be allowed one penny a mile, lawful money, in lieu of ra-
tions, for travelling expenses, and one day’s pay for every twenty miles,
between home and the general rendezvous, going and returning:
That three major-generals, and two brigadier-generals, be added to the con-
tinental establishment of general officers, and that the vacancies in the offices
of adjutant-general, and quarter-master general, be filled up:
That the general assembly of the colony of Massachusetts-Bay, the governor
and assembly of the colony of Connecticut, the conventions of New-York and
New Jersey, and the several conventions of such other of the United Colo-
nies, in which there are any lead-mines, be requested to transmit to Congress,
with all convenient º the state and condition of the lead-mines in their
respective colonies, and use the most speedy means to procure their being
wrought to effect:
That it be earnestly recommended to the assemblies, conventions, and com-
mittees of safety of the United Colonies, to fall upon the most effectual means
of removing the stock, grain, and meal, from such parts of their respective
colonies, as are invaded, or are in imminent danger of being invaded by the
enemy.
That two provincial brigadier-generals be employed in the Canada depart-
ment; one from Massachusetts-Bay, and one from Connecticut:
That four provincial brigadier-generals be employed in the New-York de-
partment; one from Massachusetts-Bay, one from Connecticut, one from
New-York, and one from New-Jersey:
That three provincial brigadier-generals be employed for the flying-camp;
two from Pennsylvania, and one from Maryland:
That the said brigadier-generals be appointed by the respective colonies
abovementioned. h
That the commander in chief be authorized to form and fix such magazines
of }.” and military stores, as he may judge necessary.
esolved, That to-morrow be assigned for electing the three major-generals
and the two brigadier-generals, and for filling up the vacancies in the offices of
adjutant-general, and quarter-master general.
Resolved. That the secret committee be empowered to export produce of
these colonies to the foreign West-Indies, sufficient to pay for ten thousand
stand of arms, ordered to be procured from thence by the committee of secret
correspondence. }
Fesolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the report of
the committee of conference.
364 JOURNALS of CONGRESS, 1776.
*—
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, June 4, 1776.
Resolved, That an order for 800 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in favor
of Joseph Swift, jun. being in full of a draught the 10th May, in his favor by.
B. Franklin, S. Chase, and Charles Carroll, of Carrollton, commissioners in
Canada, for value by them received there, and employed in the public service."
Resolved, That it be recommended to the assemblies and conventions of the
colonies, requested to supply or furnish militia by the resolutions of yesterday,
to take particular care that the militias come provided with arms, accoutre-
ments, and camp kettles.
A letter of the 3d from William Palfrey, pay-master general, was laid before
Congress, and read.
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee to whom the letters received
the 21st of May last were committed.
§ º: of the 31st of May from John Macpherson, was laid before Congress
all d read : g
Resolved, That it be referred to Mr. Read and Mr. M'Kean, who are di-
rected to confer with Mr. Macpherson. *
A petition from colonel Turbutt Francis, was presented to Congress, and read.
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of seven.
The members chosen, Mr. Hewes, Mr. Harrison, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr.
Wythe, Mr. R. R. Livingston, Mr. Lynch, and Mr. Braxton. *
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver the muskets
lately imported, to col. Shee, for the use of his battalion.
Resolvéd, That captain Herman Allen have leave to withdraw the petition
by him delivered, in behalf of the inhabitants of the New-Hampshire grants,
he representing that he has left at home some papers and vouchers necessary to
support the allegations therein contained.
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania be empowered to
negotiate with captain Bellew, on the best terms they can, for an exchange of
the prisoners on board the Liverpool; Provided always, that this shall not be
construed so as to enable them to deliver up lieutenant Bogar and lieutenant
Ball in the exchange. g
Agreeable to order, Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole,
to take into their farther consideration the reports of the committee of con-
ference ; and, after some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair,
and Mr. Harrison reported, that the committee have taken into their farther
consideration the matters to them referred, and have come to some farther re-
solutions thereon, but not having yet come to a conclusion, directed him to
move for leave to sit again.
The resolutions agreed to by the committee of the whole Congress, being
read,
Resolved, That the consideration thereof be postponed till to-morrow.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the reports of
the committee of conference.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, June 5, 1776.
A letter of the 2d from major-general Putnam, with sundry letters and pa-
ers enclosed, was laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to the committee on prisoners.
A letter from the committee of Greenwich, in Cumberland county, in New-
Jersey, dated the 3d, was laid before Congress and read, informing that the
JOURNALs of congress, 1776. 365
r
sloop Betsey and Ann, B. T. master, was arrived there from Bermudas, with V
1700 j. of salt, and two puncheons of rum, which he is desirous of ex-
changing for provisions, which the inhabitants of Bermuda are in extreme want
of: Whereupon,
Resolved, "That the said master be allowed to exchange his cargo for provi-
sions, and to export the same, under the inspection and direction of the com-
mittee of Greenwich, who are desired to take an oath, or such other security as
they think proper, of the said master, that he will carry the same to the islands
of Bermuda, and will use his utmost endeavors to avoid all English men of war
and cutters. -
Congress took into consideration the report from the committee of the whole:
Whereupon, º
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to consider what is proper
to be done with persons giving intelligence to the enemy, or supplying them
with provisions:
The members chosen, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Rutledge, Mr. Wil-
son, and Mr. R. Livingston.
Resolved, That the deputy commissaries-general, deputy quarter-masters ge-
neral, deputy adjutants-general, and deputy muster-masters #. make
regular returns and reports to Congress, and to the respective officers to whom
they are deputies, at least once a month, and that the principals also make re-
turns to Congress at the same periods.
That the pay-master general, and the deputy pay-masters general, make
monthly returns to Congress of their expenditures, and the state of the military
chests in their several departments :
That the flying camp be under the command of such continental general of.
ficers as the commander in chief shall direct:
That expresses be established between the several continental posts:
That the militia, when in service, be regularly paid and victualled in the same
manner as the continental troops:
º the aids-de-camp of the commander in chief rank as lieutenant-colo-
, Il CIS :
That the aids-de-camp of major-generals rank as majors:
That Robert Hanson Harrison, esq. have the rank of lieutenant-colonel in the
continental army:
That the assistant quarter-masters be allowed captain’s pay :
That the pay of the regimental surgeons be augmented to thirty-three dol-
lars and one-third of a dollar a month.
Resolved, That a committee, to consist of one member from each colony, be
appointed, to consider of ways and means of establishing expresses between the
several continental posts: º
The members are, Mr. Bartlett, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. Ellery, Mr. Wolcott,
Mr. Lewis, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Franklin, Mr. Rodney, Mr. Rogers, Mr.
Braxton, Mr. Hewes, Mr. iºnch, jun. and Mr. Gwinnett.
Congress then proceeded to the election of an adjutant-general and quarter-
haster general, to fill up the vacancies in those offices; when the ballots being
taken and examined,
Joseph Reed, esq. was elected adjutant-general ; and
Stephen Moylan, esq. was elected quarter-master general.
Resolved, That Joseph Reed, esq. have the pay of 125 dollars a month, and
the rank of a colonel :
That Stephen Moylan, esq. have the pay of 80 dollars a month, and the rank
of colonel.
Resolved, That the election of major-generals be postponed.
Resolved. That no person shall be appointed to any place of profit, unless
the person be appointed shall have a majority of the voices of the colonies re-
presented at the time of the election. w
366 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Congress then Vº to the election of two brigadier-generals, when
the bailots being taken, the following gentlemen were duly elected :
John Whitecombe, esq. and IIugh Mercer, esq. \.
The order of the day, and the several matters to this day referred, being post-
oned,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, June 6, 1776.
Sundry letters were laid before Congress and read, viz.
Two from major-general Schuyler, of the 31st May and 1st June.
One from the commissioners in Canada, of the 27th and 28th of May.
Three from general Thomas, of which two to the commissioners of the 15th
and 20th May, and one to general Wooster, of the 27th of the same month:
Three from brigadier-general Arnold, of the 17th, 25th, and 27th of May, to
the commissioners in Canada, enclosing a cartel entered into between him and
captain Foster, for exchange of prisoners :
One from brigadier-general Thompson, of the 25th of said month, to the com-
missioners.
Resolved, That a copy of the letter from the commissioners be sent to gene-
ral Washington ;
That brigadier-general Wooster be directed immediately to repair to head-
quarters at New-York: .
That the letters received and read, be referred to a committee of five :
The members chosen, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Sergeant, Mr. F. Lee,
and Mr. Gwinnett.
The draught of a speech to be delivered to the Indians, being read, was
agreed to :
Resolved, That the delivery of it be deferred for some days.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To captain William West, for expenses in º money to Williams-
burg, horse-hire, &c. included, the sum of 219 40-90 dollars:
To Melchior Meng, for twenty-one days hire of his wagon and horses
carrying money to Virginia, the sum of 42 dollars:
To Benjamin Towne, the sum of 2627-90 dollars for cartouch-boxes, being
so much paid him less than the price contracted for:
To Robert Porter, for accoutrements for colonel Hartley’s regiment, the
sum of 1866-90 dollars, and that the same ought to be charged to the said
regiment:
To John Kuntz, the sum of 21 40-90 dollars, of which sum there is due, for
entertaining general Lee’s guards, the sum of 10 60-90 dollars, and for ex-
presses, the sum of 1070-90 dollars:
To Michael Staddleman, for entertaining general Lee’s guard, the sum of
11 39-90 dollars: y *
, To Benjamin Smith, for board and accommodations for prisoners at Trenton,
the sum of 31 4-90 dollars, which became due before the regulation of Congress,
determining the price of their board, took place :
For expenses in apprehending Henry Edwin Stanhope and George Gregory,
who broke their parole and ran away from Northampton, in Connecticut, the
sum of 47 48-90 dollars, and that the same ought to be charged to the said
Stanhope and Gregory: ſº
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The marine committee having recommended sundry gentlemen for captains
and subaltern-officers for the ships building or built for the continent:
Resolved, That Thomas Thompson be appointed captain of the frigate built
in New Hampshire:
John Hopkins, and Samuel Tomkins, for those building in Rhode-Island:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 367
Christopher Miller, for one of those building at New-York: %
Nicholas Biddle, John Barry, Thomas Read, Charles Alexander, for those
building in Philadelphia: }
James Nicholson for that building in Maryland.
Resolved, That the names of the thirteen frigates be, the Congress, Ran-
dolph, Hancock, Washington, Trumbull, Raleigh, Effingham, Montgomery,
Warren, Boston, Virginia, Providence, and Delaware.
Resolved, That Israel Turner be first-lieutenant; Joseph Doble, second-
lieutenant; Mark Dennet, third lieutenant, of captain Manly’s ship.
Resolved, That the marine committee be empowered to affix the names to
each particular ship, and determine the vessel which each captain is to take
command of:
That the marine committee be empowered and directed to consider the
propriety of building two more ships of war, and their size, and report to
Congress.
Resolved, That three members be added to the committee appointed to de-
vise ways and means for raising ten millions of dollars, voted the 6th of May:
The members chosen, Mr. Braxton, Mr. R. Livingston, and Mr. Tilghman.
Resolved, That doctor Jonathan Potts be employed as a physician and
surgeon in the Canada department, or at Lake-George, as the general shall
direct; but, that this appointment shall not supersede Dr. Stringer.
Resolved, That an express be sent to Hugh Mercer, esq. who was yesterday
appointed a brigadier-general, with his commission, and that he be desired im-
mediately to repair to head-quarters, at New-York.
A memorial of Jacob Ummensetter was presented to Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee appointed to contract for the
casting of cannon.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, June 7, 1776.
The committee to whom was referred the letter from Eseck Hopkins, commo-
dore of the continental fleet, dated Providence, May 22d, brought in their re-
port, which, being taken into consideration, was agreed to; Whereupon,
Resolved, That Mr. Charles Walker, of New-Providence, be paid the va-
lue of the sloop Endeavour, as also of four tons of lignum-vitae, and one hun-
dred cedar posts, taken by the said commodore, for the use of the colonies,
and the damages the said Walker has sustained by the taking and detention
of the said vessel, lignum-vitie and posts; the said Walker giving a full ac-
quittance for the said vessel, goods and damages. g
Besolved. That the governor of the colony of Connecticut be requested to
appoint judicious and disinterested persons to appraise the vessel and goods .
aforesaid, at the time when they were taken, for the service of the colonies,
and tº estimate the full damages sustained by the said Walker, and report to
5. Congress forthwith, that the said Walker may be indemnified by this
ongress.
Resolved, That the said Walker have his election to receive his vessel again,
and the hire of her, and his damages, or the value of her to be ascertained as
aforesaid. tº,
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the resolu-
tions of the convention of South-Carolina, respecting the battalions raised in
that colony 3 and, after some debate,
Pesolved, That it be recommitted.
Congress being informed that complaint is made with respect to the powder
manufactured at Oswald Eve’s mill ;
Resolved, That Mr. Wisner, Mr. Paine, and Mr. R. Livingston be a corn-
mittee to enquire into the defect, and take measures to have it remedied.
368 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
, Certain resolations respecting independency being moved and seconded,
Resolved, That the consideration of them be referred till to morrow morn-
ing; and, that the members be enjoined to attend punctually at 10 o’clock, in
order to take the same into their consideration.
The committee to whom was referred the consideration of the attempt made
to counterfeit the bills of credit, emitted by Congress, brought in their report:
Ordered, To lie on the table for consideration.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, June 8, 1776.
Resolved, That the resolutions respecting independency be referred to a
committee of the whole Congress.
The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole; and, after
some time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that
the committee have taken into consideration the matter to them referred, but
not having come to any resolution thereon, directed him to move for leave to
sit again on Monday.
Resolved, That this Congress will, on Monday next, at 10 o’clock, resolve
itself into a committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the
resolutions referred to them.
A petitition of John Bayard, Joseph Deane, and William Erskine, being
presented to Congress, and read,
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell the petitioners 550 lb.
of powder, and 400 lb. of swivel and grape-shot, for the use of their privateer
Hancock, and also 750 lb. of powder before applied for.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, June 10, 1776,
Sundry letters were laid before Congress, and read, viz.
Two from general Washington, of the 7th and 8th, together with copies of
twenty-one letters and papers from general Schuyler and others:
One from the commissioners in Canada, of the 17th of May; and
One from captain Herman Allen.
Resolved, That the said letters and papers be referred to the committee ap-
pointed on the 6th, to consider sundry letters that day read.
A letter from Stephen Moylan, esq. expressing his grateful thanks to Con-
gress for appointing him to the office of quarter-master general; and a letter from
ihe convention of New-York of the 7th, were laid before Congress, and read.
Resolved, That the pay of the continental troops, in the middle department,
he henceforth the same as that of the troops in the eastern.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for the appointment of a deputy pay-
master general for the eastern department.
. Agreeable to order, the Congress resolved itself into a committee of the
whole, to take into their farther consideration the resolutions to them referred;
and, after some time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr.
Harrison reported, that the committee have had under consideration the mat-
ters referred to them, and have come to a resolution thereon, which they di-
rected him to report.
The resolution agreed to in committee of the whole Congress being read,
Resolved, That the consideration of the first resolution be postponed to
Monday, the first day of July next; and in the mean while, that no time be
lost, in case the Congress agree thereto, that a committee be appointed to pre-
pare a declaration to the effect of the said first resolution, which is in these
words: “That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and
\
*
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 369
Kºz
“independent states; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British
“crown; and that all political connexion between them and the state of Great-
“Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.”
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, June 11, 1776.
Two letters, of the 9th and 10th, from general Washington, were read and
referred to the committee appointed on the 6th.
A letter from H. E. Stanhope, of the 11th, and one from E. Webb, of the
12th of May, both dated from Northampton gaol; also, one from Mrs. Con-
molly, were read:
Resolved, That these be referred to the committee on prisoners.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to consider of a compen-
sation to the secretary for his services:
The members chosen, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Rutledge, and Mr. Hewes.
Resolved, That an order for 10,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favor of Carpenter Wharton, for the use of the Pennsylvania battalions, he to
be accountable.
Resolved, That the sum of one hundred and fifty dollars be paid the Indian
interpreter for his services, and to defray his expenses.
The present for the Indians being provided, they were called in, and the
speech agreed to, was delivered as follows:
“Brothers, We hope the friendship that is between you and us will be firm,
and continue as long as the sun shall shine, and the waters run, that we and
you may be as one people, and have but one heart, and be kind to one another
as brethren.
“Brothers, The king of Great-Britain, hearkening to the evil counsel of some
of his foolish young men, is angry with us, because we will not let him take
away from us our land, and all that we have, and give it to them, and because
we will not do every thing that he bids us; and hańhindered his people from
bringing goods to us; but, we haye made provision for getting such a quanti-
ty of them, that we hope we shall be able to supply your wants as formerly.
“Brothers, We shall order all our warriors and young men not to hurt you
or any of your kindred, and we hope you will not suffer any of your young
men to join with our enemies, or to do any wrong to us, that nothing may hap:
pen to make any quarrel between us. ~,
“Brothers, We desire you to accept a few necessaries, which we present
you with, as tokens of our good-will towards you.”
The presents being delivered, the Indian chief begged leave to give a name
to the president; the same being granted, an Onondago chief arose, and sa-
luted the president by the name of Karanduaan, or the Great Tree, by which
name he informed him the president will be known among the Six nations.
After which the Indians took their leave and withdrew.
A letter from brigadier-general Sullivan, dated St. John’s, June 1, was laid
before Congress, and read. *
Resolved, That colonel Shee and colonel Magaw, be ordered immediately
to march with their regiments to New-York.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to lend the committee of
safety of Pennsylvania, four tons of powder.
Resolved, That letters be sent, by express, to the several colonies who are
to furnish militia for the defence of New-York, acquainting them of the ne-
cessity of forwarding the supplies with all possible despatch.
Resolved, That the committee, for preparing the declaration, consist of five;
The members chosen, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Franklin, Mr.
Sherman, and Mr. R. R. Livingston.
Wol. I. * 47
370 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
—-
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare and digest the form of
a confederation to be entered into between these colonies:
That a committee be appointed to prepare a plan of treaties to be proposed
to foreign powers. º n
Mr. Chase, and Mr. Carroll, of Carrollton, two of the commissioners being
arrived from Canada, attended, and gave an account of their proceedings, and
the state of the army in that country.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
. Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, June 12, 1776.
Colonel Roberdeau, on behalf of the owners of the privateers, which have
taken some prizes, on board of which was a quantity of dollars to the amount of
22,000, having tendered to Congress the moiety belonging to them, in exchange
for continental bills of credit,
Resolved, That their offer be accepted, and that application be made to the
agent for the men, for the moiety belonging to them, and that continental mo-
ney be given them in lieu thereof.
Congress proceeded to the election of a deputy pay-master general for the
eastern department, and, the ballots being taken,
Ebenezer Hancock was elected unanimously.
Resolved, That the sum of 150,000 dollars be sent to Mr. E. Hancock, de-
puty pay-master general, for the use of the continental troops in the eastern
department.
The committee, to whom colonel Hand's letter, of the 3d of May last, was
referred, brought in their report, which was taken into consideration: Where-
upon,
Resolved, That general Washington be directed to order the rifles of such
men belonging to the rifle regiment as will not re-inlist, to be purchased, and
that the general order the payment out of the military chest.
That the rifle regiment be allowed a drummer and fifer to each company:
That 9000 dollars be advanced to colonel Hand, to purchase an uniform for
the rifle regiment, the said sum to be stopped out of the pay of the said regi-
ment.
Resolved, That captain Grier, who is returned from Virginia with his de-
tachment, and a number of recruits, be directed to join the battalions on their
march to New-York, and that Mr. C. Wharton be directed to supply them
with rations. *
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to colonel Ma-
gaw, for the use of his battalion, the 191 muskets sent up by captain Barry.
Resolved, That the committee to prepare and digest i. form of a confede-
ration to be entered into between these colonies, consist of a member from each
colony : w
The members appointed, Mr. Bartlett, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. Hopkins, Mr.
Sherman, Mr. R. R. Livingston, Mr. Dickinson, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. Stone, Mr.
Nelson, Mr. Hewes, Mr. E. Rutledge, and Mr. Gwinnett.
Resolved, That the committee to prepare a plan of treaties to be proposed
to foreign powers, consist of five : * * *
The members chosen, Mr. Dickinson, Mr. Franklin, Mr. J. Adams, Mr.
Harrison, and Mr. R. Morris. A
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on a war-
office: Whereupon, * *
Resolved, That a committee of Congress be appointed by the name of the
board of war and ordnance, to consist of five members.
That a secretary and one or more clerks, be appointed by Congress, with
competent salaries, to assist the said board in executing the business of their
department:
\
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 371
* *
º
That it be the duty of the said board, to obtain and keep an alphabetical and
accurate register of the names of all officers of the land forces in the service of
the United Colonies, with their rank and the dates of their respective commis-
sions; and also regular accounts of the state and disposition of the troops in the
respective colonies; for which purpose, the generals and officers commanding in
the different departments and posts, are to cause regular returns to be made
in the said war-office :
That they shall obtain and keep exact accounts of all the artillery, arms,
ammunition and war-like stores, belonging to the United Colonies, and of the
manner in which, and the places where, the same shall, from time to time, be
lodged and employed; and that they shall have the immediate care of all such
artillery, arms, ammunition, and war-like stores, as shall not be employed in
actual service; for preserving whereof, they shall have power to hire proper
magazines at the public expense: t
That they shall have the care of forwarding all despatches from Congress
to the colonies and armies, and all monies to be transmitted for the public ser-
vice by order of Congress; and of providing suitable escorts and guards for
the safe conveyance of such despatches and monies, when it shall appear to
them to be necessary :
That they shall superintend the raising, fitting out, and despatching all such
land forces as may be ordered for the service of the United Colonies:
That they shall have the care and direction of all prisoners of war, agree-
able to the orders and regulations of Congress:
That they shall keep and preserve, in the said office, in regular order, all
original letters and papers, which shall come into the said office by order of
Congress, or otherwise, and shall also cause all draughts of letters and des-
patches to be made or transcribed in books to be set apart for that purpose, and
shall cause fair entries, in like manner, to be made, and registers preserved,
of all other business which shall be transacted in the said office:
That before the secretary, or any clerk of the war-office shall enter on his
office, they shall lº take and subscribe the following oath, a certifi-
cate whereof shall be filed in the said office :
“I, A. B. do solemnly swear, that I will not directly or indirectly, divulge
any matter or thing, which shall come to my knowledge, as secretary of the
board of war and ordnance, (or clerk of the board of war and ordnance,) es-
tablished by Congress, without the leave of the said board of war and ord-
nance, and that I will faithfully execute my said office, according to the best
of my skill and judgment. So help me God.”
That the said board of war be authorized to hire suitable apartments, and
Provide books, papers, and other necessaries, at the continental expense, for
carrying on the business of the said office.
The committee to whom the several letters, from the commissioners in {.
mada, and major-general Schuyler, with the papers enclosed therein, were re-
ferred, brought in their report, which was read:
W i`he ºmmunomers to Canada also brought in a report in writing, which
aS read : • *
***ed, That the said two reports be referred to the committee of the
whole Congress.
Cºngress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
consideration the reports to them referred; and, after some time spent thereon,
the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the committee
have made some Fº in the matters referred to them; but, not having
finished, directed im to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a
.*.* the whole, to take into their farther consideration the reports
referred to them.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
3.72 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
wº-wº
** -—fºre
THURSDAY, June 13, 1776.
A letter from Mr. M'Kean, dated 2 o’clock this morning, and a letter from
the committee of Lewistown, of the 11th, were laid before Congress, and read:
Whereupon,
Pesolved, That the secret committee be directed to forward one ton of gun-
powder, and a proportionable quantity of lead, if to be got, to the committee of
safety of the counties on Delaware, for the use of the militia in that govern-
lment:
That it be recommended to the assembly of Pennsylvania, immediately to
order a battalion of the provincial riflemen to march to the assistance of the
militia in Delaware government:
That it be recommended to the assembly, or committee of safety of Delaware
government, to cause all the disaffected, in their colony, to be disarmed, and
the arms to be disposed of agreeable to a former resolution of Congress:
That the commanding officer of the rifle battalion of associators in this city,
be requested to order a company of the said battalion to escort the powder sent
to the Delaware government, until they shall reach the provincial battalion of
riflemen, ordered to march to the assistance of the Delaware militia.
A letter from James M*Lene, chairman of the committee of Shippensburg,
enclosing certain resolutions respecting some powder they baye stopped, which
was sent by Mr. L. Morris to George Morgan, esq. at Pittsburg, was laid be-
fore Congress and read.
Resolved, That the president return an answer, and inform the committee,
that the powder was sent to G. Morgan, esq. by order of Congress, and request
them to use their endeavors to have the same forwarded, with all safety and
despatch, to Mr. Morgan, at Pittsburg.
A letter of the 11th from the convention of New-York was also read, and
referred to the committee appointed the 6th.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to stop the exportation of
any salted provisions, which they may have ordeled to be made from New-York.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver 100 lb. of powder
to the order of the committee appointed to contract for the casting of cannon.
Resolved, That an order for 600 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in fa-
vor of captain James Grier, he to be accountable for the same, and to render
an account thereof to the pay-master general, upon his arrival at New-York.
Resolved, That the pay of the secretary of the board of war and ordnance,
be at the rate of 800 dollars a year.
Congress having proceeded to the election of a committee to form the board
of war and ordnance, the following members were chosen : .
Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. E. Rut-
ledge:
Richard Peters, esq. was elected secretary of the said board.
The committee on qualifications having recommended doctor Benjamin Alli-
son as surgeon to the }. Pennsylvania battalion, now in Canada; *
George Tudor to be captain of the company lately commanded by Walter
Stewart, in the third Pennsylvania battalion;
Mr. John Duguid, as first lieutenant in the said third battalion;
Mr. Herman Stout, as a second lieutenant in the said battalion;
And Mr. Andrew Graydon, as an ensign in the said battalion :
Resolved, That they be accepted, and that commissions be granted to them
accordingly.
Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into their
farther consideration the reports to them referred, and after some time spent
thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the
committee have made some further progress in the matters referred to them, but
not having yet come to a conclusion, desired him to move for leave to sit again.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 376
Resolved, That this. Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the reports to
them referred.
The marine committee reported, that complaints are made against commo-
dore E. Hopkins, captain Saltonstal, and captain Whipple, for breach of orders,
and other mal-practices : Whereupon,
Resolved, That the marine committee be directed to inform commodore E.
|Hopkins, captain Saltonstal, and captain Whipple, of the complaints lodged
against them, and order them immediately to repair to Philadelphia, to answer
for their conduct.
Resolved, That in case the enemy’s ships of war attempt to come up the rive
Delaware, that the secret committee be empowered and directed to deliver such
a quantity of powder as they shall judge necessary, to the committee of safety
of Pennsylvania.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. f
FRIDAY, June 14, 1776.
Resolved, That an order for 1500 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in favor
of Mr. George Evans, commissary, for the use of the continental troops in Dela-
ware government, he to be accountable.
A letter of the 10th, from the committee of safety of Maryland, was laid be.
fore Congress and read; also, a letter of the 16th of May, from the commis-
sioners in Canada, recommending major Dubois to the notice of Congress for
promotion. *
Resolved, That the commanding officer in the barracks be directed to deliver
the prisoner in his custody to the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, who are
desired to treat him agreeable to former resolutions of Congress.
A letter of the 13th, from general Washington, enclosing two letters from
major-general Schuyler, of the 8th, and sundry other letters and papers, was
laid before Congress and read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to the standing committee on Indian af.
fairs, and that the committee be directed to sit forth with.
A letter of the 18th, from W. Livingston, enclosing a letter from Thomas
Little, of the 2d, was laid before Congress and read :
Resolved, That they be referred to the committee appointed to enquire into
and remedy the defects of the powder manufactured at Mr. O. Eve’s mill.
The committee to whom were referred the letters from general Washington,
of the 9th and 10th, and a letter from the president of the convention of New-
York, with the papers enclosed, brought in their report, which was taken into
consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention of the colony of New-
York, to make effectual provision for detecting, restraining, and punishing dis-
affected and dangerous persons in that colony, and to prevent all persons from
having any intercourse or correspondence with the enemy; and that general
Washington afford his aid therein, when necessary.
Whereas it has been represented to this Congress, that great quantities of
salted beef and pork have been purchased for exportation, which, if not restrain-
ed, ...} render the supplies of the army difficult and uncertain :
Resolved, therefore, That no salted beef or pork, except as much as may be
necessary for the use of the crew, be exported from any of the United Colonies,
. any vessel, under any pretence whatever, until the further order of this Con-
!"CSS,
. The committee appointed to consider of a compensation to the secretary, for
his services, brought in their report, which was agreed to, as follows: e
That the sum of one thousand two hundred dollars be granted and paid, out
of the public treasury, to Charles Thomson, sécretary to the United Colonies,
* >
$74 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
in consideration of his faithful services for one year, ending the 10th of May
last. º
The committee to whom general Washington’s letter of the 15th, and major-
general Schuyler’s of the 8th, were referred, brought in their report, which was
taken into consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Schuyler and the other commissioners for Indian af-
fairs in the northern department be directed immediately to hold a conference
with the Six Nations; to engage them in our interest upon the best terms that
can be procured, and treat with them on the principles and in the decisive man-
ner mentioned in his letter :
That general Schuyler’s preparations for immediately taking post at Fort
Stanwix, and erecting a fortification there, be approved of; and that general
Washington be instructed to give him directions for carrying that measure into
execution. 2.
Resolved, That the committee on spies be directed to revise the rules and
articles of war, and to make such additions and alterations as they may judge
proper, and lay the same before Congress for their consideration.
A petition from Mrs. ***, was presented to Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee on spies.
A memorial from the committee of safety of Pennsylvania was presented to
Congress, and read ; setting forth, that a committee of the º accompa-
nied by the general officers lately in town, and a skilful engineer, have viewed
the river Delaware, and the fortifications and defences erected at the expense
of the colony of Pennsylvania to oppose and prevent the passage of the ene-
my’s ships; and that they have judged it necessary, for farther security, that
a redoubt should be erected at Billingsport, on the New-Jersey side, and that
a boom should be there thrown across, or some other obstructions fixed in the
channel ; and praying, as the place for the redoubt is out of their government,
and as their colony has expended a very large sum for the defence of the riv-
er, that the Congress would direct the works to be done at the continental ex-
pense; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania be empowered, at
the continental expense, to erect the redoubt, and to fix the boom, or other ob-
structions, at the places aforesaid: -
Thomas Bales, blacksmith, proposing to supply the continental troops with
a quantity of camp-kettles, of sheet-iron at one and one-third, dollar each,
rovided he can have credit for five tons of sheet-iron :
Resolved, That Timothy Matlack, esq. be directed to write to Thomas
Mayberry, of Mountholly, the manufacturer of sheet-iron, to send down to
him five tons of sheet-iron, for which he will be paid on the delivery; and,
that Mr. Matlack be directed to receive the º iron, and deliver it out,
as it may be wanted, to Thomas Bales, and receive the kettles as fast as made.
The matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, June 15, 1776.
Sundry letters were laid before Congress, and read, viz.
One from Mr. M'Kean of the 13th, and one from Mr. P. Peters:
One from general Washington of the 14th, enclosing the copy of a letter
from general Shuyler of the iOth, and sundry other papers: :
One from governor Trumbull, of the 10th, with sundry papers enclosed:
One from David Waterbury, of the 6th, with accounts enclosed :
Resolved, That the letter from D. Waterbury, with the accounts enclosed,
be referred to the committee of claims. r
A letter from the committee of safety of Virginia, of the 5th, informing of
the arrival of five tons of powder, on account of the continent, was read;
Whereupon, / ** *
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 375
+-
F-2E-
Resolved, That one half of the said continental powder be left in Virginia,
and the other half forwarded to the commaning officer in South-Carolina.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to take into consideration
the state of Georgia, and report thereon to Congress:
The members ... Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Harrison, and Mr. S. Adams.
The marine committee having recommended
Mr. Hector M'Neal to command the frigate Boston,
Mr. John Brown to be lieutenant of the same.
Mr. Thomas Grennel to command the frigate Montgomery,
Resolved, That they be accepted, and that commissions be granted to them
accordingly. §
A memorial from the owners of four private ships of war, fitted and fitting
out in Philadelphia, was presented to Congress, and read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
For expenses of sick men belonging to the 6th Pennsylvania battalion, the
sum of 58 30-90 dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to captain Sam-
uel Benezet. * *.
To Hugh Hodge, for sundry necessaries for the sick of the third Pennsylva-
nia battalion, the sum of 34 15-90 dollars:
To Robert Erwin, wagon-master for transporting salt-petre from Egg-har-
bour to Cooper’s ferry, the sum of 210 70-90 dollars:
To Peter Agnew, for repairing arms for the fifth Pennsylvania battalion,
the sum of 11 36-90 dollars.
The said committee farther reported, that Peter Noble, a soldier belonging
to colonel Hinman’s battalion. (captain Watson’s company) who was taken
prisoner near Montreal, with colonel Eathan Allen, ought to have the sum of
40 dollars advanced to him, and his receipt taken for the same, as part of
his }.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
It being represented to Cohgress, that a number of officers, whose men left
them last winter in Canada, and who remained and served there during the
whole winter, were returned, and were desirous of being some way employed
and provided for:
Resolved, That this case be referred to the board of war and ordnance, who
are desired to sit as soon as conveniently they can, and report thereon to
Congress.
Resolved, That the president write to governor Trumbull, desiring, that he
Will deliver to the agent of the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, the can-
hon and trucks ordered by Congress to be taken from New-London, and that
he be informed, the Congress expegt this resolution will be immediately com-
plied with. &
Resolved, That the letters from governor Trumbull, general Washington
and general Schu yler, be referred to the board of war and ordnance.
Resolved, That the report of the committee on general Washington’s letters
of the 9th and 10th, which was left unfinished, together with the amendments
mºved and seconded, be referred to the committee of the whole Congress.
e The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take
into their farther consideration the reports referred to them ; and, after some
time spent thereon, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison re-
Ported, that the committee have had under consideration the matters to them
referred, and have come to sundry resolutions thereon, which they ordered
". *Port; but, not having yet finished, desired him to move for leave to
Slt a gºalil.
The report from the committee of the whole being delivered in,
Resolved, That a committee of four be appointed to digest and arrange the
several resolutions agreed to in the committee of the whole, in order to be laid
*s,
376 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776,
before Congress; and that the committee of the whole be discharged of the re-
ports, so far as they relate to the cartel entered into between brigadier-general
Arnold and captain Foster for an exchange of prisoners, and that the same
be referred to the committee now to be appointed:
The members chosen, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Paine, and Mr.
Middleton.
Resolved, That this Congress will, on Monday next, again resolve itself into
a committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the reports
to them referred. f
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
{} MONDAY, June 17, 1776.
A letter of the 7th of May from brigadier-general Armstrong, and one of the
8th of June from the committee of Albany, were laid before Congress, and
read :
The board of war and ordnance, to whom the letter from governor Trumbull,
of the 10th of June, was referred, brought in their report, which was taken
into consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the governor and assembly of Connec-
ticut, to send the two battalions mentioned in the said letter as raised, one for
Boston, and one for New-York, into Canada forthwith, as proposed in the said
letter; and that a battalion of militia be sent to Boston, instead of the one in-
tended for that place:
That blank commissions be sent to governor Trumbull, for the officers of the
battalion intended for New-York; the present exigency requiring this mea-
sure, the same not to be drawn into precedent:
That 10,500 dollars be paid into the hands of the delegates of Connecticut,
to be sent to that colony, to defray the expenses of raising the said regiment:
That governor Trumbull be informed, that Congress are of opinion, that the
provision made by the late act of assembly of Connecticut, for the purpose of
engaging one-third of the militia on the sea-coast, and one-fourth in the inte-
rior part of that colony, for the defence thereof, and of the neighbouring colo-
nies, will, by no means, answer the object the Congress had in view by their
resolution of the 3d of June ; and request, that such steps may be º by
the assembly of that colony, as shall seem to them most likely to carry into
effect the said requisition.
Resolved, That commissions be granted to the officers appointed by the as-
sembly of Connecticut for the regiment ordered to be raised in that colony,
for the service of the continent. #
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell two tons of gun-
powder to the convention of New Jersey, for the use of their militia.
The committee appointed to digest and methodize the resolutions entered
into by the committee of the whole, having performed that service, brought in
their report, which was taken into consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That an experienced general be immediately sent into Canada,
with power to appoint a deputy adjutant-general, a deputy muster-master
general, and such other officers as he shall find necessary for the good of the
service, and to fill up vacancies in the army in Canada, and notify the same
to Congress for their approbation; that he also have power to suspend any
officer there, till the pleasure of Congress be known, he giving his reasons for
so doing in the orders of suspension, and transmitting to Congress, as soon as
bossible, the oharge against such officer: provided, that this power of suspend-
ing officers and fiſing up vacancies, shall not be continued beyond the first
day of October next: *
That general Washington be directed to send major-general Gates into Ca-
hada, to take the command of the forces in that province :
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 377
| –-
That no officer suttle or sell to the soldiers, on penalty of being fined one
month's pay, and dismissed the service with infamy, on conviction before a
court-martial :
That the baggage of officers and soldiers be regulated conformably to the
rules in the British armies:
That all sales of arms, ammunition, clothing, and accoutrements, made by
soldiers, be void : © tº
That no troops employed in Canada be disbanded there; that all soldiers in
Canada, ordered to be §º. or whose times of inlistment being expired,
shall refuse to re-inlist, shall be sent, under proper officers, to Ticonderoga, or
such other post on the lakes as the general shall direct, where they shall be
mustered, and the arms, accoutrements, blankets, and utensils which they
may have belonging to the public, shall be delivered up, and deposited in
the public store : -
That a deputy muster-master general be immediately sent into Canada: ..
That the local commissaries and quarter-masters, appointed at the dif-
ferent garrisons or posts, shall make weekly returns to the general of the pro-
visions and stores in the places at which they may happen to be stationed;
That the general officers, deputy quarter-master general, local commissa-
ries, pay-master in Canada, and all other persons there, who have received pub-
lic monies, be ordered, without delay, to render and settle their accounts; on
which settlement, no general officershall receive pay as colonel of a regiment,
nor field-officer as captain of a company:
: That general Schuyler be directed to make a good wagon-road from Fort-
Edward to Cheshire’s ; to clear Wood-creek, and to construct a lock at Skenes-
borough, so as to have a continued navigation for batteaus from Cheshire’s in-
to Lake-Champlain; to erect a grand magazine at Cheshire’s and secure it by
a stockade fort; to erect a saw-mill at Scoon-creek; to order skilful persons
to survey and take the level of the waters falling into Hudson’s river near
Fort-Edward, and those which fall into Wood-creek and interlock with the
former, particularly Jones’ run and Half-way brook, the latter of which is said
to discharge itself into Wood-creek at Cheshire’s ; that he be directed to have
a greater number of boats and hands kept on Hudson’s river, at the different
stations between Albany and Fort-Edward, in order to save the expense of
wagonage; that he be empowered to appoint proper officers to superintend the
carriage by land, and transportation by water, of provisions, military stores,
and other things into Canada, that neither waste or delay may arise therein;
that he build, with all expedition, as many gallies and armed vessels as, in the
opinion of himself and the general officer to be sent into Canada, shall be suf-
ficient to make us indisputably masters of the lakes Champlain and George;
and that, for this purpose, there be sent to him a master carpenter acquainted
with the construction of the gallies used on the Delaware, who shall take with
him other carpenters, and models also if requisite; and that it be submitted
tº general Schuyler, whether a temporary fortification or entrenched camp,
either at Crown-point or opposite Ticonderoga, may be necessary:
That the commissary-general be directed to sup i; the army in Canada with
Provisions, and to appoint proper officers under º, to receive and issue the
same at the several posts, taking the directions of the general; that he be em-
Powered to contract with proper persons in Canada for supplying the army
there with fresh provisions; that he be directed to purchase for them a quan-
tity of Albany peas, and to furnish as much biscuit as may be necessary; and
that his pay be raised to 150 dollars a month:
That, the quarter-master general be directed to provide and forward such
£ntº clothing, and utensils as are wanted for the army in Canada, subject to
the direction of the commander in chief:
Vol. I. 48 ^.
37.8 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
That general Washington be directed to send into Canada, such small brass
or iron field-pieces as he can spare; that he be instructed to issue orders that
no certificates be given in future by any but brigadiers, quarter-masters and
their deputies, or a field-officer on a march, or officer commanding at a de-
tached post:
That letters be written to the conventions of New-Jersey and New-York,
and to the assembly of Connecticut, recommending to them to authorize the
commander in chief in the colony of New-York, to call to the assistance of
that colony, when necessity shall require it, such of the militia of those colo-
nies as may be necessary; and to afford him such other assistance as the situa-
tion of affairs may require; and, that it be further recommended to the conven-
tion of New-York, to empower the said commander in chief to impress car-
riages and water-craft, . necessary for the public service, and also to re-
more ships and other vessels in Hudson’s and the East rivers, for the purpose
of securing them from the enemy:
That the companies of riflemen from Virginia and Maryland be regimented,
and that the regiment be completed to the original number of the Pennsylva-
nia battalion:
That the Pennsylvania battalion of riflemen be completed to their original
establishment: w.
That two companies of the forces now in the Delaware government be or-
dered to Cape-May:
That the committee, appointed to contract for cannon, be directed to pro-
. a number of brass or iron field-pieces, to be made or purchased immedi-
ately: -
That the committee, appointed to provide medicines, be directed to send a
proper assortment of . to Canada:
hat Mr. James Mease be directed to purchase and forward to the quarter-
master general in New-York, as much cloth for tents as he can procure :
That the committee appointed to provide stockings and shoes for the troops
in Canada, be directed to purchase such other articles as may be wanted for
the use of the soldiers in Canada, and send the same to Albany, that they may
be forwarded to the army in Canada, and that they be particularly attentive to
provide, in time, a sufficient number of leathern breeches and under waistcoats,
and such other winter clothing as may be necessary for them:
That the said committee be directed to forward, with all expedition, to the
quarter-master in Canada, such shoes as are already provided:
That prisoners, taken by continental forces, be not exchanged by any au-
thority but the Continental Congress: z
That all vessels which sailed from the port or harbour of Boston, while the
town of Boston was in possession of the enemy, having on board effects, be-
longing to the enemies of America, and which have been or may be seized, be
liable, together with the said effects, to confiscation, in the same manner and
proportions as have been heretofore resolved by Congress :
That the continental agents in the respective colonies, where no courts have
been established for the trials of captures, have power, and be directed, to dis-
pose, at public sale, of such articles of a perishable nature, as shall be taken
from the enemies of America, and that the money arising from such sale, be
liable to the decree of such court whenever established :
That the inventory of the ordnance stores, taken by captain Manly, be sent
to general Washington, and that he be requested to appoint a person on the
part of the colonies, to join one on the part of captain Manly and his crew,
who, having first taken an oath for that purpose, shall proceed to value the
same, and if they cannot agree in the value, they shall call in a third person
to determine the same; that the report of such persons be returned to Congress
so'soon as may be, and the value of the stores belonging to captain Manly and
his crew, be thereupon transmitted to them.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 379
Resolved, That it be referred to the delegates of Maryland, Pennsylvania,
New-Jersey, and New-York, to devise the mode of raising the battalion of
Germans voted the 25th of May last.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be postponed till to-
11) Orl'OW.
The committee, to whom was referred, the cartel between brigadier-general
Arnold and captain Foster, for the exchange of prisoners, and the several pa-
pers relating thereto, brought in their report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The committee on the petition of colonel Turbutt Francis reported, that they
had met on the business referred to them; that the Indians refused to be ex-
amined, or to give evidence on the matter, which prevented their proceeding,
wherefore they desired to be discharged:
Resolved, That they be discharged.
The committee on spies brought in their report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The committee to whom the letter from William Palfrey, esq. pay-master
general, were referred, brought in their report, which was read: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the said letters, with the weekly returns enclosed, be de-
livered to the superintendents of the treasury, to be filed in the auditor-gene-
ral’s office.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. -
TUESDAY, June 18, 1776.
Sundry letters were laid before Congress, and read, viz.
One from general Washington of the 16th, enclosing one from general Ward
of the 9th, and one from Wm. Palfrey of the 16th.
Three from general Schuyler of the 11th and 12th:
Two from brigadier-general Sullivan of the 5th and 6th; and
Two from brigadier-general Arnold of the 5th and 6th :
Resolved, That these be referred to the board of war and ordnance.
A letter from W. Palfrey, with a weekly return, was read:
Ordered, To be delivered to the superintendents of the treasury.
A letter from J. Trumbull, commissary-general, of the 17th, informing, that
he has found it necessary to order a quantity of flour to be purchased in finila-
delphia, and that to pay for the same, he has drawn on the president in favor
of Mr. Matthew Erwin, for 60,000 dollars, and, as he shall be under the ne-
cessity of giving orders for purchasing pork and flour in Philadelphia, desiring
to know whether he may, from time to time, continue to draw on the president
for the payment of those articles. *.
Resºlºd, That the president pay such bills as are or may be drawn by J oseph
Trumbull, esq. for the purposes abovementioned, and that the same, as paid,
be charged to his account. *
A. letter from the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, requesting the
ºpinion ºf Congress, whether persons taken on board merchants' ships and
º ought to be exchanged for seamen taken from the enemy's ships
T &
Resolved, That the president inform the committee of safety that the Con-
grºsjºlgº i.improper that such exchange be made.
Resolved, That Gunning Bedford, esq. deputy muster-master general, be
promoted to the rank of muster-master general, and that he be directed im-
imediately to repair to head-quarters at New-York.
Resolved, That general Washington be empowered and directed, to nominate
and send a deputy muster-master general to Canada.
Resolved, That two members be added to the committee for superintending
the treasury: *
380 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
The members chosen, Mr. Hewes, and Mr. M'Kean.
A memorial from Dr. John Morgan, director-general and chief physician
of the hospital, was laid before Congress, and read :
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee appointed to provide medi-
CIIlêS. *
The committee to whom the report on the resolutions of the convention of
South-Carolina, respecting the battalions raised in that colony, were recom-
mitted, brought in their report, which was taken into consideration: Where-
upon, the Congress came to the following resolutions:
Whereas the Congress, on the 4th day of November last, resolved, that for
the defence of South-Carolina, there be kept up in that colony, at the conti-
nental expense, three battalions of foot; each battalion to consist of the same
number of men and officers, to be upon the same pay, and under the same re-
gulations as the continental army; and, on the 25th day of March last, re-
solved, that the convention, or council of safety of South-Carolina, be permit-
ted to raise and embody two other battalions, and that they be on the pay, and
at the expense of the continent, as soon as they shall be armed fit for service,
and accordingly mustered; and whereas the convention of South-Carolina, on
the 22d day of February last, ordered that their council of safety return the
thanks of that colony to the Congress for their attention to its security; that
they state the peculiar circumstances and the heavy expenses which have been.
and will be incurred by that colony in the measures necessary for its defence,
and that they request the Congress to allow that colony so much money as the
expenses of three battalions, upon the continental establishment, would amount.
to for one year, and to give continental rank to the officers of the three regi-
ments raised in June, and of the regiment of artillery raised in November,
from the dates of their respective commissions, or at least from the fourth day
of November, when they resolved to allow that colony three battalions; and
whereas, the delegates Koń that colony in Congress, have represented the pe-
culiar circumstances and heavy expenses of that colony; and that the troops
raised in it were inlisted for three years, upon a different establishment of pay,
and under different articles of war, so as to render it inconvenient to place
them, in all respects, upon the continental establishment; therefore,
Resolved, That the battalion of artillery, and the two battalions of foot,
raised in South-Carolina, and kept up in that colony for the defence of the same,
be considered as continental forces, and allowed the same pay, rations and
disbursements as other forces on the continental establishment:
That the two battalions, under the command of colonels Gadsden and
Moultrie, be allowed all the advantages of the continental establishment, from
the 4th of November last, and the regiment of artillery, from the time when
the same was ordered to be raised by the convention of South-Carolina:
That the two battalions of riflemen, raised in and for the defence of the said
colony, be considered as continental troops from the 25th day of March last,
and be entitled to all the advantages of the same: i
That all the above mentioned troops be liable to the articles for the govern-
ment of the forces in the said colony:
That the said forces be continued on the continental establishment until the
expiration of their inlistment, unless they shall be sooner disbanded by
Congress:
That not more than one-third of the effective men of the abovementioned
forces be ordered out of the said colony, without the express order of Congress
or the consent, ºf the president of that colony.
Resolved, That Mr. Heyward, and Mr. Hall be added to the committee for
providing medicines.
ſºlº That Mt. Rodgers, be appointed a member of the marine com-
Imlttee,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 38}
amº-mºss-º
—-
Resolved, That a commissioner be appointed to settle in Canada the debts
due on certificates, given by officers to the Canadians for carriages and other
services; and to settle the accounts for such goods, as may have been seized,
through necessity, for the use of the army; that it be given as instruction to him,
to attend particularly to the case of Mr. Bernard; and that, in settling the
certified debts, he state carefully the names of all those who have given cer-
tificates, the nature of the service, and the time when performed, and return
the whole, when settled and stated, to the committee of the treasury, to be by
them examined and discharged :
That Thursday next be assigned for electing the said commissioner.
Resolved, That no man in these colonies, charged with being a tory, or
unfriendly to the cause of American liberty, be injured in his person or pro-
perty, or in any manner whatever disturbed, unless the proceeding against him
be founded on an order of this Congress, or the assembly, convention, council
or committee of safety of the colony, or committee of inspection and observa-
tion, of the district where he resides; provided, that this resolution shall not
prevent the apprehending any person found in the commission of some act
destructive of American liberty, or justly suspected of a design to commit
such act, and intending to escape, and bringing such person before proper au-
thority for examination and trial.
Information being given, that some of the officers, who were prisoners at
Lebanon, in the colony of Pennsylvania, have, in violation of the parole by
them given and subscribed, made their escape,
Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war and ordnance to consider
what steps are necessary to be taken on the occasion.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY June, 19, 1776.
A letter from the convention of New-Jersey of the 18th, enclosing an ordi-
nance for raising 3300 militia for the defence of New-York, together with their
proceedings in apprehending William Franklin, esq. late governor of that colo-
ny, was laid before Congress, and read; Whereupon,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention of New-Jersey, to pro-
ceed on the examination of Mr. Franklin, and if, upon such examination, they
shall be of opinion that he should be confined, to report such opinion to this
Congress, sº then the Congress will direct the place of his confinement, they
concurring in sentiment with the convention of New-Jersey, that it would be
improper to confine him in that colony.
The board of war and ordnance, to whom Sundry letters and papers were
referred, particularly one from general Washington of the 16th, brought in their
report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the commissions granted by brigadier-general Sullivan, to
sundry officers in Canada, mentioned in general Washington’s letter, be ap-
proved and confirmed, provided, general Gates and the general officers in Cana-
da, ºn consultation, shall think the measure will conduce to the public service.
That 300,000 dollars be sent to the pay-master general at New-York, for
the use of the army.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
"To John Jervis, for horse-hire, ferriages, &c. the sum of 33 10-90 dollars:
To John Bruce, the sum of 1336-90 dollars, being the balance of his bill for
cartouch boxes:
. To Joseph Fernaur, the sum of 17 3-90 dollars, the balance of his bill for
tin cartouch boxes:
To Sacheveral Wood, the sum of 187 26-90 dollars, for victualling prisoners
confined in gaol by order of Congress:
382 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1775
To George Reinheart, for the carriage of powder, arms, and bullets, the sum
of 20 48-90 dollars:
... To Thomas Harvey, for cash paid by him for guards of powder-wagons,
and also his bills for ferriages, the hire of wagons, &c. the sum of 27 20-90
dollars, and that the same ought to be paid to Samuel Hitlegas, esq.,
To Mary Thomas, for nursing and boarding two of captain Benezet's men,
in the small-pox, the sum of 12 dollars : *…,
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
A muster-roll of the ninth Virginia battalion, commanded by colonel Flem-
ming, taken the 31st of May last, was laid before Congress: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the said battalion be taken into continental pay from the
said 31st day of May.
Resolved, That one ton of gun-powder be sent to the colonel or command-
ing officer of the said battalion :
That the committee for preparing medicine-chests, be directed to send one
to the surgeon of the said battalion.
Resolved, That the marine-committee be directed to carry into execution
the resolution of the 17th, for sending carpenters to general Schuyler.
A memorial from the mates of the hospital was laid before Congress and read :
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee for providing medicines.
Whereas it is indispensably necessary for the good of the service, that the
soldiers of the United Colonies be well provided with blankets and clothing;
therefore,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the assembles and conventions of the
United Colonies, forth with to cause a suit of clothes, of which the waistcoat
and breeches may be made of deer leather, if to be had on reasonable terms, a
blanket, felt hat, two shirts, two pair of hose, and two pair of shoes, to be manu-
factured, or otherwise procured at reasonable rates, in their respective colonies,
for each soldier of the American army, inlisted therein for the present cam-
paign, and that the same be baled, invoiced, and stored in suitable places, to
be delivered to the order of Congress, or the commander in chief of the Ame-
rican army:
That sufficient sums of money be granted to the assemblies and conventions
aforesaid, on applying for the same, to enable them to discharge the demands
arising from the purchase of the articles aforesaid : t
That the commander in chief of the American army be empowered to draw
on the assemblies and conventions, for such articles of clothing aforesaid, as
he shall, from time to time judge necessary, and that the cost thereof be de-
ducted from the pay of the soldiers who shall receive, the same, by the proper
officer for examining and discharging the accounts and pay-rolls of the re-
spective regiments.
The marine committee, to whom the petition of William Adams, surgeon,
was referred, brought in their report, which was taken into consideration :
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the resignation of William Adams be accepted.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, June 20, 1776.
Aletter of the 17th from general Washington, and a letter from the conven-
tion of New-Jersey, were laid before Congress, and read.
Resolved, That in order to give time to the several committees, to prepare for
the house the matters referred to them, it be a standing rule of Congress, that
adjournments from the Friday evening, be always to Monday morning, unless
on any particular occasion, the Congress shall order otherwise.
A petition from Carpenter Wharton was presented to Congress and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war and ordnance.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 383
ºxº
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the
cartel between brigadier-general Arnold and captain Foster, for exchange of
prisoners; and, after debate, the farther consideration thereof was postponed
till to-morrow. t
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to draw up rules and re-
gulations for the conduct of the house during debates:
The members chosen, Mr. Rutledge, Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Paine.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To captain William Richards, for the detention of his shallop twenty days
on the public service, the sum of 40 dollars:
To Robert Erwin, wagon-master, for wagonage, the sum of 207 30-90 dollars:
To David Williamson, for wagon-hire, carrying captain James Grier’s bag-
gage from Fredericksburg to New-York, and returning home, the sum of 147
dollars :
To Abraham Mills, for nursing and boarding six soldiers in the small-pox,
the sum of 33 86-90 dollars:
To Samuel Cooper, for ferriage and storage, the sum of 26 12-90 dollars:
To Leonard Storeburner, for one team hauling the baggage of captain Wil-
liams’s company 18 miles beyond Goshen, and two teams hauling the baggage
of captain Jones’s company to Albany, the sum of 41454-90 dollars:
On two certificates produced by H. Wisner, esq. the sum of 11 45-90 dol-
lars, expenses of the first Pennsylvania battalion, at Goshen, and that the
same ought to be paid to Henry Wisner, esq. and charged to J. Shallus,
quarter-master of the said battalion :
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to consider what provision
ought to be made for such as are wounded or disabled in the land or sea service,
and report a plan for that purpose :
L The members chosen, Mr. Paine, Mr. F. Lee, Mr. Hall, Mr. Ellery, and Mr.
CWHS. *
The matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjotºrned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, June 21, 1776.
Resolved, That general Washington be directed to permit brigadier-general
Wooster to return to his family in Connecticut.
Resolved, That the commanding officer of the Delaware battalion, be direct-
ed to send a proper guard, with the powder ordered to colonel Flemming's re-
giment, on the Eastern-Shore of Virginia. t
Resolved, That an order for 800,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favor of the delegates of South-Carolina, for the use of the continentalbattalions
in that colony; the said delegates to be accountable:
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Rowland Swan, a captain of his Britannic majesty's 7th regiment of foot,
the sum of 36 dollars, for eighteen weeks' allowance, and 12 dollars for bringing
his baggage from New-York to Philadelphia, together with the baggage of capt.
Dundee, and three privates of the said regiment:
To Joseph Haight, for supplying the prisoners at Burlington with provisions
to the 4th of June instant, the sum of 238 dollars :
To Andrew MNair, the Sum of 120 23-90 dollars for provisions, &c. for the
twenty-four Indians, while at the state -house, which was twenty days:
hº Michael Clark, for liquor for the above Indians, the sum of 27 66-90 dol-
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
A letter of the 21st, from the convention of New-Jersey, was laid before
$º and read, together with Sundry letters from the prisoners in Bur-
gton, $
384 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
-º-ºw
Resolved, That the pay of the commissioner to be sent into Canada be four
dollars a day.
The board of war and ordnance, to whom was referred the case of the offi-
cers who served last winter in Canada, brought in a report, which was taken in-
to consideration: Whereupon, *
Resolved, That the convention of New-York be requested to set on foot the
raising another regiment on continental establishment, to serve for three years,
or during the war, unless sooner discharged by Congress; and that in forming
the said regiment, they commission such officers as served in the last campaign
in Canada, and have not been yet provided for :
That the said officers be iº that the commissions to be granted them,
are on condition that they raise their companies to their full complement, or
nearly thereto, and that their commissions be withheld until the said condition
be complied with :
That it be recommended to the said convention to make suitable provision for
major Dubois, with whose good conduct Congress are well satisfied, and that
they return his name, with the names of the other field officers, for the appro-
bation of Congress.
That a commission of lieutenant-colonel be given to major John Fischer, in
colonel John Nicholson’s regiment, in the New-York forces.
The Congress then resumed the consideration of the report from the com-
mittee of the whole : Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Washington be directed to order an enquiry to be
made into the conduct of the officers heretofore employed in the Canada depart-
ment; that the said enquiry be made at such times and places as, in his judg-
ment, shall be most likely to dojustice, as well to the public as to the individuals;
and that the result of the said enquiry, together with the testimonies upon the
subject, be transmitted to Congress: that, moreover, all officers accused of cow-
ardice, plundering, embezzlement of public moneys, and other misdemeanors,
be immediately brought to trial : And whereas, Congress is informed that an
opinion has prevailed that officers resigning their commissions are not subject
to trial by a court-martial for offences committed previous to such resignation,
whereby some have evaded the punishments to which they were liable, it is
hereby declared that such opinion is not just.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to nine o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, June 24, 1776.
Two letters of the 20th and 21st, from general Washington, with sundry pa-
pers enclosed, were laid before Congress and read: Whereupon,
Resolved, That a letter be written to the general, desiring him to put a stop
to the raising the companies of Mohickan and Stockbridge Indians, mentioned
in one of the enclosed papers; and that a like letter be written to governor
Trumbull.
A letter of the 21st, from the convention of New-Jersey, was laid before
Congress and read, together with Sundry papers enclosed therein, containing
the questions proposed to William Franklin, esq. an account of his behavior on
the occasion, and the resolution of the convention, “ declaring him a virulent
enemy to this country, and a person that may prove dangerous, and that the
said William Franklin be confined in such place and manner as the Continen-
tal Congress shall direct;” Whereupon,
Resolved, That William Franklin be sent under guard to governor Trum-
bull, who is desired to admit him to his parole; but, if Mr. Franklin refuse to
give his parole, that governor Trumbull be desired to treat him agreeable to the
resolutions of Congress respecting prisoners. 2
Besolved, That Mr. Mease be directeed to advance to captain Matthew
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 385
Smith, of the rifle-battalion, one thousand and forty dollars, for the purpose of
recruiting his company; the said captain Smith to be accountable.
Resolved, That Mr. Mease, and the committee of claims, be directed to for-
ward to the pay-master general, an account of the monies advanced and or-
dered to be charged to the rifle-battalion, or the respective rifle companies, in
order that the same may be deducted, and stopped from their pay.
The Congress being informed that a quantity of tents, which were sent from
Philadelphia for the use of the colony of Massachusetts-Bay, have been stop-
ed at New-York, by the order of the quarter-master *::::
Resolved, That the president write to the general on this subject, and desire
him to order the said tents to be delivered up, and forwarded to the colony
of Massachusetts-Bay immediately.
Resolved, That a committee, to consist of a member from each colony, be
appointed to enquire into the causes of the miscarriages in Canada:
That the said committee have power to send for persons and papers:
The members chosen, Mr. Whipple, Mr. Paine, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Sherman,
Mr. Clinton, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Paca, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Hewes, Mr. Middle-
ton, and Mr. Hall.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Gunning Bedford, the sum of 202 dollars, of which sum 103 dollars and
30-90ths, for pay and subsistence for two months, the remainder for a horse
for the continental service: -
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That the report on the cartel for exchange of prisoners, entered
into between brigadier-general Arnold and captain Foster, be recommitted.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on spies;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That all persons abiding within any of the United Colonies, and
deriving protection from the laws of the same, owe allegiance to the said laws,
and are members of such colony; and that all persons passing through, visit.
ing, or make a temporary stay in any of the said colonies, being entitled to the
protection of the laws during the time of such passage, visitation or temporary
stay, owe, during the same, allegiance thereto: *
That all persons, members of, or owing allegiance to any of the United Colo-
nies, as before described, who shall levy war against any of the said colonies
within the same, or be adherent to the king of Great-Britain, or other enemies of
the said colonies, or any of them, within the same, giving to him or them aid
and comfort, are guilty of treason against such colony:
That it be recommended to the legislatures of the several United Colonies,
to pass laws for punishing, in such manner as to them shall seem fit, such per-
sºn; before described, as shall be proveably attainted of open deed, by people
of their condition, of any of the treasons before described.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the several legislatures of the United
Colonies, to pass laws for punishing, in such manner as they shall think fit, per-
i. * º .."...i or aid or º h counterfeiting, the continental
111S Of Credit, or who shall pass any such bill in *
to be counterfeit. P y payment, knowing the same
Resolved, That the remainder of the said report be recommitted.
re * petition from Antoine Felix Wiebert was presented to Congress, and
Resolved, That the same, together with the S accompanving i tº
ferred to the board of war . papers accompanying it, be re
The ºrd of war and ordnance, to whom was referred a petition from Cat-
penter Wharton ; brought in their report, which was read:
oº:: To lie on the table: and that the president write to general wash-
Vol. T. 40
386 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
*~~
ington, and request him to inform Congress of the cost of a ration as furnished
by the commissary-general.
The matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
! TUESDAY, June 25, 1776.
A letter of the 23d from general Washington, with sundry letters from ma;
jor-general Schuyler, brigadier-general Sullivan, brigadier-general Arnold, and
others, were laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to the board of war and ordnance; who
are directed to sit immediately, and report thereon as soon as possible.
A memorial from captain Stephen Rowe Bradley was presented to Congress
and read, together with sundry accounts:
Resolved, That the same be referred to the committee on the treasury.
The marine committee having recommended captain Samuel Nichols, to be
*. to be major of marines; Andrew Porter, Joseph Hardy, Samuel Shaw,
enjamin Deane, and Robert Mullin, to be captains of marines; Daniel Hen-
derson, David Love, Franklin Reed, and Peregrine Brown, to be first-lieute-
nants of marines; James M'Clure, William Gilmore, Abel Morgan, and Hugh
Montgomery, to be second-lieutenants of marines; John Stewart to be cap-
tain; Thomas Pownal, first-lieutenant, and Richard Harrison, second-lieu-
tenant, of marines, for the frigate building in Maryland:
John Langdon, esq. to be agent of prizes for the colony of New-Hampshire :
Resolved, "That they be approved, and that commissions be granted to them
accordingly.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell to John Maxwell
Nesbit & Co. 125 lb. of powder, for the use of the privateer they are fitting out,
Resolved, That the committee appointed to contract for making muskets, be
directed to consider the propriety of granting a bounty, or other means, for
encouraging the making of muskets.
Adjourned to four o’clock.
Eopſ. M DIE, P. M.
A declaration of the deputies of Pennsylvania, met in provincial confer-
ence, was laid before Congress, and read; expressing their willingness to
concur in a vote of Congress, declaring the United Colonies Free and Independ-
ent States. * *
The board of war and ordnance, to whom the several letters received this
morning were referred, brought in their report, which was taken into considera-
tion; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the number of men destined for the northern department,
be augmented to four thousand :
. That a colonel’s commission be immediately issued to major Dubois, with
instructions forthwith to raise a regiment to serve for three years, or during
the war, and that the corps of officers be composed of such as have served with
credit in Canada; no officer to receive his commission until his company be
raised and armed; the arms of the people inlisting themselves, to be valued
by the committees of the counties, where the companies are raised, and paid
for by the continent, on their being mustered:
That it be earnestly recommended to the colony of New-Hampshire, to
send immediately one regiment of their militia to Massachusetts-Bay, two
regiments of their militia to Connecticut, one regiment of their milita to aug-
ment the troops destined for the northern department:
hat letters be sent to the general assemblies of the colonies, from whence
the several regiments of militia are and have been requested, earnestly pres-
sing them to be expeditious in raising and equipping their troops, and requesting
Journals of CONGRESS, 1776. 387
–4–
the several assemblies to take upon themselves the care of providing the said
troops with clothes, teats, and all necessary camp-equipage, and assuring them
that the United Colonies will be answerable for the expense of the same:
That a regimental pay-master, who is not to be an officer of the army, be
appointed by the said colonies to each of the said battalions, who shall keep
all the accounts of his respective battalion, and to whom particular returns
shall be made of the expense of clothing the said battalion, in order that the
same may be deducted out of the pay of the soldiers, for whom the articles
shall have been provided.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, June 26, 1776.
A letter of the 21st from general Washington, and, one of the 26th, from
brigadier-general Wooster, were laid before É. and read:
rdered, That the letter from brigadier-general Wooster be referred to
the committee appointed to enquire into the causes of the miscarriages in
Canada. * -
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration,
Whereupon,
Resolved, That Mons. Antoine Felix Weibert, who applies to be employed
as an engineer in the continental army, be recommended to general Washing-
ton as a person who appears to be qualified to act in that capacity; but, as he
asks no more at present than to be placed in a situation, in which he may be
enabled to evidence his abilities, that the general be desired to employ him in
such way, as he shall judge will best conduce to the good of the service, and
answer Mons. Weibert’s request.
Resolved, That the following gentlemen be appointed officers of the battalion
to be raised under colonel Lewis Dubois; their commissions to be given them
as soon as their complement of men shall be raised :
Jacobus S. Bruyn, lieutenant-colonel; William Goforth, major; David Du-
bois, Elias Van Banscholen, Thomas de Witt, Issac Wool, Philip D. B. Bevier,
Richard Platt, Albert Pawling, and Cornelius T. Jansin, captains; James
Gregg, Aaron Austin, Jonathan Piercy, Evans Wherry, Garret Van Wagenan,
Henry Vandenburg, Nathaniel Conklin, and Henry Dodge, first lieutenants;
Daniel Glans, second-lieutenant in the first company; John Coates, surgeon;
and Henry Dubois, adjutant.
Resolved, That the president write to the sonvention of New-York, and
explain to them, the reasons that induced the Congress to enter into the fore-
going resolution; and to request the convention to appoint the other officers
of the battalion, and to use their best endeavours in equipping and forwarding
the said battalion as soon as possible. & g
Resolved, That the marine committee be empowered to purchase the armed
brig Catharine, with her guns, tackle, apparel and furniture, as she now lies in
Connecticut. !
The committee of claims reported, that there is due, -
To Dr. Bond, the sum of 930-90 dollars for medicines and attendance for
three Indians: ja
. To Benjamin Armitage, for boarding and lodging Thomas Folmer, the In-
dian interpreter, twenty days, the sum of 12 25-90 dollars.
To Richard Cheny, the sum of 482-90 dollars for victualling general Lee’s
guard, and that the same ought to be paid to John-Morton, esq.
To Anthony Welte, for provisions supplied captain Nelson’s company, the
sum, of 18 18-90 dollars.
To Aaron Phips, the sum of 7 44-90 dollars for sundry expenses of general
Lee’s guard:
t
$88 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
To John Osborne, the sum of 8 dollars; namely 6 dollars for boarding and
lodging a sick soldier, and two dollars for a coffin for one of captain Wanzant’s
Iſleſ) :
To George Howes, for wagon-hire, &c. carrying money to Cambridge at the
time Mr. Franks went, the sum of 70 40-90 dollars,
To Messrs. Hanson, Donaldson, and Franks, for carrying money to the
camp in March last, the sum of 238 28-90 dollars:
To Isaac Sorrel, the sum of 26 85-90 dollars; of which 10 69-90 dollars
were for the expenses of the prisoners that were brought from North-Carolina
and the guard, the remainder for the expenses of the guard that went with the
powder, &c. to colonel Miles, at Marcus-hook. f
To Henry Haller, the sum of 645 46-90 dollars; of which sum, captain John
Nelson is to be charged, for two rifles, 24 dollars; the remainder, viz. expenses
of captain John Nelson’s company at Reading, 12 89-90 dollars; expenses of
prisoners from St. John’s and Chambly to 8th June, 538 47-90 dollars; Mr.
º: pay, as commissary, from 30th March to 7th June, 70 days, at 7s 6,70
Olla!"Se
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That a bounty of ten dollars be given to every non-commissioned
officer and soldier, who will inlist to serve for the term of three years.
Ordered, That the resolutions passed yesterday, be sent to general Washing-
ton, and that he be desired to afford such assistance to the northern or Canada
department, as he shall be enabled to do consistently with the safety of New-
York; and, from time to time, to give such directions as he may think expe-
dient for the public service. t
A paragraph of a letter from general Washington to one of the members,
being laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war and ordnance.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to supply the marine com-
mittee with one ton of powder, for the use of the vessel which they were this
morning empowered to purchase. i.
Resolved, That Michael Hillegas, esq. be empowered and directed to pay
such sums of money as are or may be due to the several signers of continental
bills of credit, for their services, agreeable to the resolve of Congress for that
urpose.
p The committee to whom was referred the petition of William Whiting, a
soldier who was wounded in the continental army at Quebec, brought in their
report, which was read: Whereupon,
Itesolved, That the sum of twenty dollars be paid out of the public treasury
to Williºn Whiting, to enable him to return to É. family at Norfolk, in Con-
Îlecticut. Q
The committee on the treasury, to whom were referred the petition and ac-
counts of Shephen Rowe Bradley, brought in their report: Whereupon,
Resolved, That there be paid to Stephen Rowe Bradèly the sum of 691 22-90
dollars, for the service of himself and his company, from the 25th day of Jan-
uary to the 25th day of February, during which time they were employed in
the service of the continent.
The matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, June 27, 1776.
* letter of the 17th from governor Trumbull, was laid before Congress and
read ; also,
Two petitions; one from colonel John Brown, the other from William Holton:
*ēsolved, That the petition from colonel Brown be referred to the committee
appointed to enquire into the causes of the miscarriages in Canada:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 339
That the petition from William Holton be referred to the board of war and
ordnance. * sº
Resolved, That an order for 24 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in favor
major Bicker; he to be accountable.
Sundry letters from the southward, being received by express, were laid be-
fore Congress, and read, viz.
One from general Lee, dated Little-River, June 6th, enclosing two to him,
one from John Rutledge, esq. the other from brigadier-general Armstrong;
both dated Charleston, South-Carolina, June 4th, advising, that 51 sail of the
enemy were arrived there, and lying in sight of the town:
One from brigadier-general Lewis, dated Williamsburgh, the 18th of the
same month, enclosing one to him from general Lee, of the 4th :
Resolved, That the said letters be referred to the board of war and ordnance:
The Congress then took into consideration the letter from governor Trum-
bull; and, after some debate,
Resolved, That the farther consideration thereof be postponed; and, in the
mean while, that governor Trumbull be desired to send to Congress, an account
of the cannon left at New London by commodore Hopkins, their number, size,
bore and weight, and also an account of the other cannon there.
A letter from the commissioners for Indian affairs in the southern depart-
ment, with sundry papers enclosed, was laid before Congress, and read.
The board of war and ordnance, to whom the paragraph of a letter from
the general was referred, brought in their report, which was taken into consi-
deration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That six companies of riflemen, in addition to the three companies
now at New-York, be raised and the whole regimented; and that a commission
be granted to captain Stevenson, to be colonel of the said regiment of riflemen,
which is to be inlisted for three years, unless sooner discharged by Congress;
the men to be allowed a bounty of ten dollars; and that Moses Rawlins be
lieutenant-colonel, and Otho Holland Williams, major of the said regiment:
That four companies of riflemen, for the said regiment, be raised in Virginia,
and two in Maryland, the pay of the men to commence from the time they
shall be armed and mustered: their arms to be appraised by the committee of
the county, and paid for by the United Colonies:
That general Washington be directed forthwith to send to Congress a com-
plete list of all the vacancies in the army, and the names of such officers as he
can recommend for filling them. *
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Robert Erwin, wagon-master, the sum of 241 51-90 dollars, a balance due
for three teams that went to North-Carolina with powder;
To Doctor Frederick Phyle, for medicines and attendance on the 5th Penn-
sylvania battalion, from the time of their embodying to the 13th of June, 1776,
the sum of 532 51-90 dollars.
To John Bales, for camp-kettles, the sum of 68 dollars:
To Elizabeth Slaydon, the sum of 24 dollars, for nursing and boarding two
soldiers, of which sum captain'steward is to be charged with 13 30-60 dollars,
for nursing and boarding the man he wounded in the state-house yard; the re-
fººler to the continent; the said 24 dollars to be paid to colonel T. Mat-
a CR 2
To Rachel Hewen, the sum of 5 30-90 dollars, for nursing and boarding two
soldiers of the continental army: #
That there be repaid to Robert Moore the sum of seven dollars, which was
stopped out of his pay by captain M. Smith; the same having been by him ex-
Pended for provisions, when he was left sick by his company in Canada:
Qrdered, That the said accounts be paid.
*esolved, That the pay of doctor Huston, who was appointed surgeon of the
390 s JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
5th Pennsylvania battalion, he stopped till farther orders of Congress, and that
the pay-master be notified thereof.
The committee to whom it was referred to devise a mode of raising the Ger-
man battalion, voted on the 25th of May last, brought in their report, which was
taken into consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That four companies of Germans be raised in Pennsylyania, and
four companies in Maryland, to compose the said regiment:
That it be recommended to the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, imme-
diately to appoint proper officers for, and direct the inlistment of, the four com-
anies to be raised in that colony:
That it be recommended to the convention, or, in their recess, to the coun-
cil of safety of Maryland, immediately to appoint proper officers for, and direct
the inlistment of, the four companies to be raised in that colony:
That the said companies be inlisted to serve for three years, unless sooner
discharged by Congress, and receive bounty, pay, rations, and all other allow-
ances equal to any of the continental troops:
That the said companies be entitled to pay and subsistence from the time of
inlistment : {
That the said companies, when raised, be formed into a battalion, under the
command of such field officers as Congress shall appoint:
That the rank of the captains of the said companies be regulated as Congress
shall hereafter direct :
That 5,000 dollars be sent to the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, and
5,000 dollars to the convention, or, in their recess, to the council of safety of
Maryland, to defray the expense of raising the said companies.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention, or, in their recess, to
the council of safety of Maryland, to appoint the officers, and forward, with all
possible expedition, the raising the two companies of riflemen.
The several matters to this i. referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, June 28, 1776.
The committee of claims, to whom were referred the petition and accounts
of Thomas Thomson, reported, 4.
That there ought to be paid to Thomas Thomson the sum of 750 dollars, in
part of an account for lumber, said to have been delivered by Simon Metcalf to
the forces belonging to the continent, at St. John’s, in Canada:
The said committee farther reported, that there is due,
To Thomas Mayberry, the sum of 11729-90 dollars, for plated iron :
Ordered, That the said sums be paid.
A petition from colonel James Easton was presented to Congress and read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to the committee appointed to enquire
into the causes of the miscarriages in Canada. *
A petition from William Poole was presented to Congress and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee for making provision for
wounded and disabled soldiers. f
Francis Hopkinson, esq., one of the delegates of New-Jersey, attended, and
produced the credentials of their appointment, which was read, as follows, viz.
IN PRovincIAL Congress, Mew-Jersey, Burlington, June 21, 1776.
The Congress proceeded to the election of delegates to represent this colony
in Continental Congress, when Richard Stockton, Abraham Clark, John Hart,
and Francis Hopkinson, esqs. and Dr. John Witherspoon, were elected by bal-
lot, to serve for one year, unless a new appointment be made before that time.
Resolved, That the following instructions be given to the delegates as aforesaid:
The Congress empower and direct you, in the name of this colony, to join with
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 391
—A
the delegates of the other colonies in Continental Congress, in the most vigo-
rous measures for supporting the just rights and liberties of America; and, if
you shall judge it necessary or expedient for this purpose, we empower you to
join with them in declaring the United Colonies independent of Great-Britain,
entering into a confederation for union and common defence, making treaties
with foreign nations for commerce and assistance, and to take such other mea-
sures as may appear to them and you necessary for these great ends; promising
to support them with the whole force of this province ; always observing, that,
whatever plan of confederacy you enter into, the regulating the internal police
of this province is to be reserved to the colony legislature. By order of Con-
Sºl’62.SS.
&; SAMUEL TUCKER, President.
Extract from the minutes: WM. PATTERSON, Secretary.
The board of war brought in a report, which was read in these words :
Monsieur Le chevalier de Kirmovan, having produced to the board indubita-
ble credentials of his good character and superior abilities in the art of war,
and particularly as an engineer, the board resolved to recommend him to
Congress as a person who can be much confided in ; and it is the opinion of
the board, that the committee of safety of Pennsylvania be reqested to em-
ploy him in planning and laying out the fortification agreed by Congress, to
be erected at Billingsport, on the river Delaware.
The said report being again read, -
Resolved, That the same be agreed to. *
Resolved, That Mr. Hopkinson be added to the committee for preparing
, a plan of confederation.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell the committee of Sa-
lem county, in New-Jersey, 300 lbs. of powder.
The committee appointed to prepare a declaration, &c. brought in a draught,
which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table. *
à petition from Christopher Champlain was presented to Congress and
Tea (1 .
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of three :
The members chosen, Mr. Morris, Mr. Alsop, and Mr. Gerry.
Resolved, That Mr. Wisner, Mr. Paine, and Mr. Floyd be a committee to
confer with Anthony Mosengeil, on the subject of manufacturing sulphur :
That 30 dollars be advanced to the said committee, they to be accountable.
Fesolved, That the treasurers be empowered to advance to the committee
of safety of Pennsylvania 100,000 dollars; the colony of Pennsylvania to be
accountable. f
Resolved, That the committee for superintending the treasury, be directed to
nominate and appoint six persons to sign and number the million of dollars
ordered to be struck in small change.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to nine o’clock on Monday next.
MONDAY, July 1, 1776.
Sundry letters were laid before Congress and read, viz.
Three from general Washington, of 27th and 28th of June, with sundry let-
ters and papers enclosed: \
ne from the convention of New-J ersey, of the 29th :
9ne from the convention of New-Hampshire of the 17th :
9ne from brigadier-general Lewis of the 17th:
ºne from Benjamin Harrison, jun.
* \ Resolved, That an order for 6000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in fa-
vor of Richard Graham, of Vi rginia, in full of a draught in his favor of the 20th
-
*
392 Journals of congress, 1776.
June, by brigadier-general Lewis; and that the same be charged to the ac-
count of Benjamin Harrison, deputy pay-master general for Virginia.
A resolution of the convention of Maryland, passed the 28th of June, was
laid before Congress and read, as follows: “That the instructions given to
their deputies in December last, be recalled, and the restrictions therein con-
tained, removed ; and that the deputies of said colony, or any three or more of
them, be authorized and empowered to concur with the other United Colonies,
or a majority of them, in declaring the United Colonies Free and Independent
States; in forming such further compact and confederation between them ; in
making foreign ańiances, and in adopting such other measures as shall be
adjudged necessary for securing the liberties of America; and that said co-
lony will hold itself bound, by the resolutions of the majority of the United Co-
lonies, in the premises; provided, the sole and exclusive right of regulating the
internal government and police of that colony be reserved to the people
thereof.”
The order of the day being read,
Resolved, That this Congress will resolve itself into a committee of the
whole, to take into consideration the resolution respecting independency:
That the declaration be referred to said committee.
The Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole. After some
time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the
committee had come to a resolution, which they desired him to report, and to
move for leave to sit again.
The resolution agreed to by the committee of the whole being read, the de-
termination thereof was, at the request of a colony, postponed till to-morrow.
Resolved, That a brigadier-general, acting in a separate department, be al-
lowed an aid-de-camp.
A letter of the 29th from general Washington was laid before Congress and
read.
Resolved, That the letters this day received, be referred to the board of war.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into consideration the declaration respecting inde-
pendence.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, July 2, 1776. • *
Sundry letters were laid before Congress, and read:
One from general Washington, of the 30th of June, enclosing sundry papers;
among which, a copy of a letter from lieutenant-colonel Campbell to general
Howe: & *
One from the council of Massachusetts-Bay of the 26th:
One from governor Trumbull of the 20th of the same month, and one from
the pay-master general, with a weekly account:
Ordered, That the last be delivered to the board of treasury:
li º: the letter from lieutenant-colonel Campbell to general Howe, be pub-
Shed : , *
That the other letters be referred to the board of war. *
The Congress resumed the consideration of the resolution reported from the
committee of the whole; which was agreed to as follows:
Resolved, That these United Colonies are, and, of right, ought to be, Free
and Independent States; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the Brit-
ish crown, and that all political connexion between them, and the state of Great-
Britain, is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole; and, after some time, the president resumed the chair,
and Mr. Harrison reported, that the committee have had under consideration
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 393
the declaration to them referred; but, not having had time to go through the
same, desired him to move for leave to sit again:
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the declaration
respecting independence.
ongress being informed, that, in obedience to their order, captain Whip-
ple and captain Saltonstal were arrived in Philadelphia,
Resolved, That the marine committee enquire into the complaints exhibited
against them, and report thereon to Congress.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, July 3, 1776.
A letter from the convention of New-Jersey, of the 2d, and a letter from
the commissioners for Indian affairs in the southern department, dated Augus-
ta, May 21, together with an account of their expenses, and the minutes of
their conference with the Indians in that department, were laid before Con-
gress, and read:
Resolved, That the account of the commissioners be referred to the commit
tee on the treasury.
Congress took into consideration the letter from the convention of New-
Jersey; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to
send as many of the troops of their colony as they can spare, to Monmouth
county, in New-Jersey, to the assistance of the inhabitants of that colony, and
to be subject to the orders' of the commander in chief; the said troops to be
allowed the same pay and rations as the troops in the service of the continent,
from the time of their march until their return :
- That a circular letter be written to the committees of inspection of the se-
veral counties in Pennsylvania, where troops are raised, or raising, to form
the flying-camp, requesting them to send the troops by battalions, or detach-
ments of battalions, or companies, as fast as raised, to the city of Philadelphia,
except those raised in the counties of Bucks, Berks, and Northampton, which
are to be directed to march, as aforesaid, to New-Brunswick, in New-Jersey:
That a copy of the foregoing resolutions be sent to general Washington, and
that he be desired to appoint a proper officer to command the flying-camp, and
also direct proper persons to supply the men with rations.
Resolved, That the marine committee be empowered to contract with ship-
wrights, to go to Lake-Champlain, on the following terms:
fo allow each man 34 .. and two-thirds per month; one month’s pay
to be advanced, on their giving security, if required: *
d Each man to be allowed a ration and a half, and one half-pint of rum, per
a Y :
Their tools and arms to be valued:
Two-thirds of their wages to be paid, monthly, to whomsoever they shall
leave the power of receiving it: *
Their pay to commence from the day they sign articles, and continue until
they are discharged, with an allowance of one day’s pay for every twenty miles,
between the place where they are discharged, and their respective homes.
Resolved, That Dr. Franklin and Mr. §. two of the commissioners for
Indian affairs in the middle department, be authorized to discharge the bills'
drawn by Mr. Morgan on the commissioners of that department.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
Inittee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration, the declaration; and,
after some time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that
the committee, not having yet gone through it, desired leave to sit again.
*:::::: That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a com.
OL. 1. 50
394 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
mittee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration, the Declaration of
Independence. . \
Ajourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, July 4, 1776.
Resolved, That application be made to the committee of safety of Pennsyl-
vania for a supply of flints for the troops at New-York: and that Delaware
government and Maryland, be requested to embody their militia for the flying-
camp, with all possible expedition, and to march them, without delay, to the
city of Philadelphia.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration, the declaration;
and after some time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison report-
ed, that the committee have agreed to a declaration, which they desired .
to report. t
The declaration being read, was agreed to as follows:
3'ſ ºngtſäſºlſtionſ
BY THE
REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UN’ITED STATES OF AMERICA,
IN CON GRESS ASSEMBLED,
*
WHEN, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people
to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to
assume, among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which
the laws of nature and of nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the
opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel
them to the separation. * *
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal ; that
they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among
these, are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. That, to secure these
rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from
the consent of the governed ; that, whenever any form of government becomes
destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and
to institute new government, laying its foundation on such º: and or-
ganizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect
their safety and happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that governments
long established, should not be changed for light and transient causes; and, ac-
cordingly, all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suf-
fer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms
to which they are accustomed. But, when a long train of abuses and usurpa-
tions, pursuing invariably the same object, evinces a design to reduce them un-
der absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such go-
vernment, and to provide new guards for their future security. Such has been
the patient sufferance of these colonies, and such is now the necessity which
constrains them to alter their former systems of government. The history of
the present king of Great-Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpa-
tions, all having, in direct object, the establishment of an absolute tyranny over
these states. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid world :
He has refused his assent to laws the most wholesome and necessary for the
public good.
He has forbidden his governors to pass laws of immediate and pressing im-
portance, unless suspended in their operation till his assent should be obtained ;
and, when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other laws for the accommodation of large districts of
people, unless those people would relinquish the right of representation in the
legislature ; a rightinestimable to them, and formidable to tyrants only.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 395
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable:
and distant from the depository of their public records, for the sole purpose of
fatiguing them into compliance with his measures. º e
He has dissolved representative houses repeatedly, for opposing, with manly
firmness, his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused, for a long time after such dissolutions, to cause others to be
elected; whereby the legislative powers, incapable of annihilation, have return -
ed to the people at large for their exercise; the state remaining, in the mean
§ exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions
within.
He has endeavored to prevent the population of these states; for that pur-
pose, obstructing the laws for naturalization of foreigners ; refusing to pass
others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new
appropriations of lands. w
He has obstructed the administration of justice, by refusing his assent to laws
for establishing judiciary powers. g
He has made judges dependent on his will alone, for the tenure of their of
fices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of new offices, and sent hither swarms of officers
to harrass our people, and eat out their substance. *
He has kept among us, in time of peace, standing armies, without the consent
of our legislatures. -
He has affected to render the military independent of, and superior to, the
civil power. e
He has combined, with others, to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our
constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his assent to their acts
of pretended legislation: -.
For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us: º
For protecting them, by a mock trial, from punishment, for any murders which
they should commit on the inhabitants of these states:
For cutting off our trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing taxes on us without our consent:
For depriving us, in many cases, of the benefits of trial by jury:
For transporting us beyond seas to be tried for pretended offences: .
For abolishing the free system of English laws in a neighboring province, es-
tablishing therein an arbitrary government, and enlarging its boundaries, so as
to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same ab-
solute rule into these colonies:
. For taking away our charters, abolishing our most valuable laws; and alter-
Ing, fundamentally, the forms of our governments:
For suspending our own legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with
power to legislate for usin all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated government here, by declaring us out of his protection, and
Waging war against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroy-
ed the lives of our people. :
He is, at this time, transporting large armies of foreign mercenaries to com-
Plete the works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun, with circum-
stances ºf cruelty and perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages,
and totally unworthy the head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow-citizens, taken captive on the high seas, to
bear, arms against their country, to become the executioners of their friends
and brethren, or to fall themselves by their hand,
He has excited, domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavored to
bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian savages, whose
known rule of warfare is an undistinguished destruction, of all ages, sexes,
and conditions.
396 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
+. *— I
In every stage of these oppressions, we have petitioned for redress, in the
most humble terms: Our repeated petitions, have been answered only by re-
peated injury. A prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which
may define a tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Nor have we been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have
warned them, from time to time, of attempts by their legislature, to extend an
unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circum-
stances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their
native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them, by the ties of our
common kindred, to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably inter-
rupt our connexions and correspondence. They, too, have been deaf to the
voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the
necessity, which denounces our separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest
of mankind, enemies in war, in peace friends.
We, therefore, the representatives of the UNITED STATES OF AME-
RICA, in GENERAL CONGRESS assembled, appealing to the Supreme
Judge of the World for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the name, and
by the authority of the good people of these colonies, solemnly publish and
declare, That these United Colonies are, and of right, ought to be, jFret attu
3titutpertuent Sétates; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the Bri-
tish crown, and that all political connexion between them and the state of
Great-Britain, is, and ought to be, totally dissolved ; and that, as FREE
.A.W.D INDEPEN’DENT STATES, they have full power to levy war, con-
clude peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and to do all other acts
and things which INDEPENDENT STATES may of right do. And, for the
support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of IB}{fj}{N35
33i:49%)}{332'NG!33, we mutually pledge to each other, our lives, our for-
tunes, and our sacred honor.
The foregoing declaration was, by order of Congress, engrossed, and signed
by the following members:
JOHN HANCOCK.

Josiah Bartlett, George Taylor,
JWeiv-Hampshire, William Whipple, Pennsylvania, James Wilson,
Matthew Thornton. V George Ross, ºf
Samuel Adams, Jaesar Rodney,
John Adams, Delaware George Read
JMassachusetts-Bay Robert Treat Paine, 3. Thomas Mºrean.
UElbridge Gerry. Samuel Chase,
* Stephen Hopkins William Paca,
Åhode-Island, $º. Ellery. 2 JMaryland, Thomas Stone,
Roger Sherman, Charles Carroll, of Car-
-> Samuel Huntington rollton.
Connecticut, William Williams, *— George Wythe,
Oliver Wolcott. s…". Richard IIenry Lee, "
William Floyd, Thomas Jefferson,
JVew-York Philip Livingston, Virginia, Benjamin Harrison,

Francis Lewis,
Lewis Morris.
Richard Stockton,
John Witherspoon,
JWew-Jersey, iº Hopkinson,
John Hart,
Abraham Clark.
obert Morris,
. Benjamin Rush,
Benjamin Franklin,
John Morton,
George Clymcr,
James Smith,
Pennsylvania,
Resolved, That copies of the declaration be sent to
Thomas Nelson, jun.
Francis Lightfoot Lee,.
Carter Braxton.
William Hooper,
JVorth Carolina, § Hewes,
John Penn.
Edward Rutledge, .
South-Carolina, †. jº"R.
I Arthur Middleton,

Georgia, Lyman Hall,
#: Gwinnett,
George Walton.
the several assemblies,
conventions and committees, or councils of safety, and to the several com"
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 397
à-
manding officers of the continental troops; that it be proclaimed in each of
the United States, and at the head of the army. '
Ordered, That Mr. Morris and Mr. Hewes determine the hire of Mr. Wal-
ker’s vessel, which was employed by commodore Hopkins in the service of the
continent. *
A letter of the 3d, from general Washington, was laid before Congress, and
read:
Resolved, That the delegates of New-York, New-Jersey and Pennsylvania,
be a committee to confer with the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, and
the committee of inspection and observation for the city and liberties of Phila-
delphia, and the field officers of the battalions of the said city and liberties,
on the best means of defending the colonies of New-Jersey and Pennsylvania;
and that they be empowered to send expresses where necessary:
. That the secret committee be instructed to order the flints belonging to the
continent, and now at Rhode-Island, to be sent to the general at New York.
Resolved, That Mr. Wisner be empowered to send a man, at the public ex-
pense, to Orange county, for a sample of flint-stone.
The Congress proceeded to the appointment of two commissioners for Indian
affairs in the middle department; and, the ballots being taken,
Jasper Yates and John Montgomery, esqrs. were elected.
Ordered, That Dr. Franklin and Mr. Wilson inform the above named gentle-
men of their appointment, and desire them to attend the treaty with the In-
dians at Pittsburg, on the day appointed; and also to appoint some persons to
procure goods necessary for the Indians.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for filling up the vacancies in the
committee for Indian affairs.
Resolved, That the president be empowered to employ another private se-
cretary.
jºined, That the board of war be empowered to employ such a number of
persons, as they shall find necessary, to manufacture flints for the continent;
and, for this purpose, to apply to the respective assemblies, conventions and
councils, or committees of safety of the United American States, or commit-
tees of inspection of the counties and towns thereunto belonging, for the names
and places of abode of persons skilled in the manufactory aforesaid, and of
the places, in their respective states, where the best flint-stones are to be ob-
tained, with samples of the same.
Itesolved, That an order for 3 dollars and 54-90ths, be drawn on the treasu-
rers, in favor of the express, who brought the despatches from Trenton.
Resolved, That Dr. Franklin, Mr. J. Adams and Mr. Jefferson, be a com-
mittee, to prepare a device for a seal for the United States of America.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell 25 lb. of power to
John Garrison, of North-Carolina.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, July 5, 1776.
A letter from captain Crawford, a prisoner of the 26th regiment, was read,
requesting leave to visit the prisoners in the several places where they are
confined:
Éesolved. That, in the present situation of affairs, such leave be not granted.
The committee on ways and means, brought in a report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The account and vouchers of Mr. Price being laid on the table,
Resolved, That they be referred for adjustment to the board of treasury.
The board of war brought in a report: Whereupon,
Resolved, That a regiment be raised out of the officers who served in Canada,
on the same terms on which the regiment, to be commanded by colonel Dubois,
398 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
N.
is to be raised; and that the following persons be appointed officers of the said
regiment: *
Seth Warner, colonel :
Samuel Safford, lieutenant-colonel:
Elisha Painter, major :
Wait Hopkins, John Grant, Gideon Brownson, Abiather Angel, Simeon
Smith, Joshua Stanton, — Seely, Jacob Worsboroug, captains; John
Allen, Fusset, Walbridge, Deane, James Gold, Sill,
Ebenezer Hide, Gamaliel Painter, first lieutenants;
Ebenezer Beaumont, adjutant.
Resolved, That the president write to governor Cooke, requesting him to
order fifty ship-carpenters to be engaged, on the best terms, at the expense of
the continent, and sent to general Schuyler at Albany, as soon as possible, in
order to build vessels for the defence of the lakes. &
The committee of Congress, appointed to confer with the committee of
safety of Pennsylvania, the committee of inspection and observation for the
city and liberties of Philadelphia, and the field-officers of the five battalions
of the said city, reported, that they have had a meeting with the committees
and officers aforesaid, and have agreed to the following resolutions, viz.
That all the associated militia of Pennsylvania, (excepting the counties of
Westmoreland, Bedford and Northumberland) who can be furnished with arms
and accoutrements, be forthwith requested to march, with the utmost expedi-
dition, to Trenton, (except the militia of Northampton county, who are to
march directly for New-Brunswick) in New-Jersey; and that the said militia
continue in service, until the flying-camp, of ten thousand men, can be
collected to relieve them, unless they shall be sooner discharged by Congress:
That the militia march by companies to the place of rendezvous:
That the said militia be taken into the continental pay, and receive the same
ay, allowances and rations, as the continental troops, from the time they begin
their march, until they return to their respective homes:
That those of the three battalions of the Pennsylvania troops, now remain-
ing in the province, be ordered to march immediately for New-Brunswick, in
New-Jersey: -
That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania provide as many tents as they
can for said militia :
That the committees of inspection and observation, in the several counties,
furnish a good kettle to every six men, and give all the assistance in their
ower, that the said militia be well armed and equipped, and march with the
reatest expedition :
That the committees of inspection for the several counties of Pennsylva-
nia, be desired to order such troops as they may raise for the flying-camp, to
be marched to Trenton; the resolve of Congress passed yesterday notwith-
standing; Whereupon, w
Resolved, That this Congress highly approve the foregoing resolutions, and
recommend it to the good people of Pennsylvania, to carry the same into exe:
dution with the same ſaudable readiness, which they have hitherto manifested
in supporting the injured rights of their country.
Resolved, That colonel Hazlet, of the battalion in Delaware government, be
ordered to station one company at Lewistown, and to march the remaining seven
to Wilmington, and there remain until farther orders of this Congress.
Resolved, That the commissioners for Indian affairs in the . depart-
ment, while on actual service, receive four dollars a-day.
The committee on the treasury reported, that there is due,
To John Walker, esq. one of the commissioners of Indian affairs in the
southern department, the sum of 869 67-90 dollars, for several horses, a wagon
and geers, and expenses in travelling 2500 miles. .
*
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 399
Ordered, That the said account be paid.
The committee appointed to consider the state of Georgia, brought in their re-
port, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That for the defence of Georgia, there be an addition of two bat-
talions, (one of them to consist of riflemen) to be raised on the same terms on
which other continental battalions are now ordered to be raised :
That blank commissions for the field-officers be sent to the convention of
Georgia, to be filled up with the names of such persons as the said convention
shall judge proper :
That it be recommended to the assemblies, conventions or councils of safety
of Virginia, North and South-Carolina, to permit the raising troops, for the
purpose aforesaid, within their respective states; and, if requested, to afford
their advice and assistance, with regard to suitable persons for captains and
subalterns, and that blank commissions be delivered to the delegates:
That four gallies be built at the expense of the United States, under the
direction of the convention of Georgia, for the farther defence of the said
State :
And whereas the delegates of Georgia have represented the necessity of
erecting two forts, one at Savannah and the other at Sunsbury:
Resolved, That two companies of artillery be raised, consisting of fifty men
each, officers included, for the purpose of garrisoning such forts, in case they
shall be erected, by and at the expense of Georgia; and that blank commis-
sions be delivered to the delegates for the officers, to be filled up by the as-
Sembly or convention of the said state.
Resolved, That general Washington be empowered, if he shall judge it advise-
able, to order three of the fullest regiments, stationed in Massachusetts-
Bay, to be immediately marched to Ticonderoga; and that an equal number
of the militia of that state, be taken into pay, and embodied for its defence, if
the government of Massachusetts-Bay judge it necessary.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That Mr. John Coburne, who has acted as an assistant conductor
of military stores in Canada, and has produced certificates of his having done
his duty in that station, be allowed lieutenant’s pay, from the first day of
March to the first day of June last:
That a chaplain be appointed to each regiment in the continental army, and
that their allowance be encreased to thirty-three dollars and one-third of
a dollar a month :
That immediate steps be taken, in the several colonies, to procure lead :
That the post-master general be directed immediately to have expresses
established between this city and New-York, and that general Washington be
desired to send off despatches to Congress every day:
That the secret committee be directed to send forthwith to general Lewis,
at Williamsburgh, five tons of powder, for the use of the troops in the southern
department, part of which is to be forwarded to South-Carolina:
That the British officers and soldiers who are prisoners, and now in New-
Jersey, be sent from thence to the town of York, in Pennsylvania, and that the
convention, or committee of safety of New-Jersey, be requested to carry this
resolve into execution: 4
That four companies of the militia be directed to remain in Philadelphia,
to guard the continental stores in that city.
The matter. to this day referred, being postponed, *~.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, July 6, 1776.
* letter of the 5th from the convention of New-Jersey, was received and
P6 80,
A00 N. JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That Carpenter Wharton be appointed commissary, to supply
with rations the militia who are immediately to march from Pennsylvania to
New-Jersey, until the commissary-general shall order otherwise:
That William Sherman, jun. be appointed pay-master of colonel Warner’s
regiment: f
That major Rogers be sent to New-Hampshire, to be disposed of as the gov-
•ernment of that state shall judge best.
Sundry letters were received and read, viz.
One from general Washington of the 4th and 5th :
One of the 1st from general Schuyler to general Washington; aud,
One of the 24th of June, from brigadier-general Sullivan to general Schuyler:
Resolved, That the same be referred to the board of war.
Resolved, That the agents in Massachusetts-Bay and Rhode-Island, be di-
rected to send the arms taken out of the Scotch transports, to general Wash-
ington, at New-York.
Resolved, That a copy of a letter received from J. Green be forwarded to
general Washington, and that he be desired to send for such parts of the stores
therein mentioned, as he shall think proper. º
Application being made by William Kelsay, who has raised a company in
New-Jersey, for a sum of money to defray the expenses of said company to
New-York,
Ordered, That Mr. Mease advance one month’s pay to captain Kelsay, for
the use of his company; he to be accountable.
The Congress proceeded to the election of members for the committee on
Indian affairs, in the room of those absent; and, the ballots being taken, Mr.
Jefferson, Mr. P. Livingston, and Mr. Huntington were chosen.
Resolved, That Mr. Floyd, Mr. Rodney, and Mr. Clark, be added to the
committee on the miscarriages in Canada.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver one ton of pow-
der to the convention of New-York; they to be accountable:
That general Schuyler be-directed to collect and audit the public accounts
of the late general Montgomery, and to include his pay and the allowance for
his table in the adjustment. |
The board of treasury laid before Congress an account of James Warren, esq.
late .*. general of the United Colonies; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the following allowances be made, viz.
For assistants, from 27th July, 1775, to 4th May, 1776, the sum of 276 dol-
lars: \,
For sundry articles purchased for the use of the office in New-York, 3 dol-
lars and forty-nine seventy-two parts of a dollar:
For horse-hire to William Wynthrop, esq. and for his attendance and ex-
penses in Philadelphia, 100 dollars:
Ordered, That Mr. Warren pay the balance in his hands to Ebenezer Han-
cock, esq. deputy pay-master general for the eastern department.
Adjourned to nine o’clock on Monday.
\ MONDAY, July 8, 1776.
A letter of the 4th from general Washington, and one of the 6th from the
convention of New-Jersey, were laid before Congress, and read.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to send four tons of pow-
der, and a sufficient quantity of cartridge-paper, to general Mercer, for the
use of the flying-camp. • º
Resolved, "That an order for 20,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in,
favor of James Mease; he to be accountable.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 40i
A letter from Mrs. Connolly was laid before Congress, and read : &
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee of safety of Pennsylvania,
and that it be recommended to said committee, to make proper provision for
Mrs. Connolly, till farther order of Congress. tº
Resolved, That the commanding officer of the military associators of Phila-
delphia, be directed not to order captain Peters out of the city, as his service
.." attendance is necessary in the war-office. º “º e
Resolved, That the post-masters, while in office, be excused from all mili-
tary duty.
X º: of the 4th from the convention of Maryland, enclosing resolutions
.# three thousand four hundred men for the flying-camp, was received
and read:
Resolved, That major-general Gates be informed, that it was the intention
of Congress to give him the command of the troops whilst in Canada, but that
they had no design to vest him with a superior command to general Schuyler,
whilst the troops should be on this side Canada; and that the president write
to major-general Schuyler and major-general Gates, stating this matter, and
recommending to them to carry on the military operations with harmony, and
in such manner as shall best promote the public service:
That a copy of the foregoing resolution be transmitted to general Wash-
ington. * -
#. committee of safety of Pennsylvania, having recommended Daniel Burk-
hard, George Hubley, Jacob Bunner and Benjamin Weiser, to be captains of
the four companies of Germans to be raised in that state,
Resolved, That they be approved, and that commissions be granted to them
accordingly.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration:
Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Washington be vested with discretionary power to
call to his assistance, at New-York, such of the continental regiments in the
Massachusetts-Bay, as have not already received orders to march to Ticonde-
roga; and that the general court of that state be requested to supply their
places with militia, if they think it expedient: y
That the commissary general have full power to supply both armies, that
upon the lakes as well as that at New-York; and also to appoint and employ
such persons under him, and to remove any deputy-commissary, as he shall
judge proper and expedient; it being absolutely necessary, that the supply of
both armies should be under one direction.
The Congress then proceeded to the election of a deputy quarter-master
general for the flying camp; and, the ballots being taken,
Clement Biddle was elected deputy quarter-master general for the flying-
Camp, and for the militia of Pennsylvania and New-Jersey, ordered to ren-
dezvous at Trenton.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for the election of a deputy muster-
naster general for the flying camp and militia aforesaid.
*::solved. That the committee for providing medicines, be directed to sup-
*. militia aforesaid, with a sufficient quantity of suitable medicines.
esolved, That an order for 60,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favor of the delegates of Georgia, for the use of the continental battalions;
the state of Georgia to be accountable.
*esolved, That general Washington be empowered to appoint suitable places
of rendezvous for the new battalions raising for Canada, and communicate the
Same to the assemblies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Connecticut
and New-York; also, to issue his orders for supplying the men with rations,
tents, a month’s pay advance, and other necessaries.
Vol. I, 51
402 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That Mr. Mease be directed to advance one month’s pay to such
of the militia as will engage to serve in the flying camp.
Resolved, That an order for 5000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in favor
of Mr. George Evans, contractor for supplying the Delaware battalion; he to
be acconntable.
A letter of the 5th, from the committee of safety of Delaware government,
with sundry papers enclosed, was laid before Congress, and read:
l Resolved, That the same be referred to the delegates of Maryland and De-
àWare.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, July 9, 1776.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That Abraham Sheppard be appointed captain, Samuel Finley, first
lieutenant, William Killey, second lieutenant, Henry Bidinger, third lieutenant,
of the Virginia rifle company; and that the delegates of Virginia be em-
powered to write to the several county committees in that state, where they
think it most proper and probable for the men to be raised, requesting the said
committees to recommend officers for the appointment of Congress, to fill up
colonel Stevenson’s regiment; the officers so recommended, to have power
immediately to inlist their men, and commissions to be sent them as soon as
possible, and that 7000 dollars be paid into the bandé of colonel Stevenson, for
bounty money, and other regimental expenses:
That a farther sum of 5000 dollars be paid into the hands of said colonel
Stevenson, and 2,500 dollars to the delegates of Maryland, for the use of the
said regiment; they to be accountable.
Resolved, That Mr. Palfrey, late aid-de-camp of general Washington, have
the rank of lieutenant-colonel in the jº army.
The Congress proceeded to the election of a deputy muster-master general
for the flying camp, and militia ordered to rendezvous at Trenton; and, the
ballots being taken, *
Jonathan B. Smith was elected.
IResolved, That an order for 10,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favor of the committee of secret correspondence, for the purchase of two ves-
sels; they to be accountable.
The committee to whom the petition of William Poole was referred, brought
in their report: Whereupon, *
}. That twenty dollars be paid to the said William Poole for his
present support, till regulations are made for the relief of disabled soldiers.
Resolved, That the Rev. Mr. Duche be appointed chaplain to Congress, and
that he be desired to attend every morning at 9 o'clock.
Resolved, That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania release Allan
MºDonald, of Kingsborough, a prisoner in the gaol of Philadelphia, on his
parole, and that, upon signing the parole, he be treated agreeable to former re-
solutions of Congress. *~
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to settle a cartel for exchange of
prisoners : ** jº
The members chosen, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. Harrison.
Resolved, That such of the militia as are employed in making gun-locks,
and such as are employed in making cannon and powder, be detained from
marching on the present occasion to New-Jersey.
Resolved, That five of the committee, appointed to enquire into the causes
of the miscarriages in Canada, be a quorum to proceed to business... ."
The committee on the treasury, to whom the claims of John Walker and
Willie Jones, esqrs. commissioners for Indian affairs in the southern depart-
ment, were referred, reported, that there is due,
*
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 403
Q
To John Walker, esq. for 139 days he was employed in the southern depart-
ment, at the rate of 4 dollars a day, 556 dollars : ſº ‘. . . "
To Willie Jones, esq. for his expenses attending Indian affairs at Salisbury,
and travelling to sundry places, 250 dollars, and for 95 days on duty, at 4 dol-
lars a day, 380 dollars :
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
A memorial from Ludwick Karcher, was presented to Congress, and read :
Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, July 10, 1776.
Resolved, That one month’s pay be advanced to the militia of Pennsylvania,
ordered to march to Trenton, the same to be paid after the men are mustered.
That Mr. J. Mease be directed to deliver to Mr. C. Biddle, the deputy
quarter-master general for the flying-camp, and militia, such tents, and other
articles as he has belonging to the continent, and which may be wanted for the
militia and flying-camp. g
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration :
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the committee of Lancaster be empowered and directed, to
keep a guard over the prisoners, in the barracks of that borough, and to sur-
round the said barracks with a stockade fort:
That the privates who are prisoners in the town of Reading, be removed to
the borough of Lancaster.
A letter from Ephraim Anderson was laid before Congress, and read :
Resolved, That the president write to general Washington on the subject,
enclosing Mr. Anderson’s letter, and that Mr. Anderson be referred to the
eneral.
§ The committee appointed to draw up rules and orders for the government
of the house, brought in their report, which was read: *
Ordered, To lie on the table. '
º standing committee for Indian affairs, brought in a report, which was
Fe3C: :
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That the committee for providing medicines, be directed to fur-
nish Dr. Allison with a set of instruments, and that the director-general sup-
ply him with proper medicines.
The committee, to whom the cartel, between brigadier-general Arnold and
captain Foster, and the several papers thereto relating, were recommitted,
brought in their report, which was read as follows:
That, having made diligent enquiry into the facts, they find, that a party of
390 continental troops, under the command of colonel Bedel, was posted at
the Cedars, about forty-three miles above Montreal; that they had there
formed some works of defence, the greater part of them picketed lines, the
rest a breast-work of earth, with two #. pieces mounted :
That, on Wednesday the 15th of May, colonel Bedel received intelligence,
that a party of the enemy, consisting of about 600 regulars, Canadians and In:
dians, were on their way to attack %. post, and were then within nine miles
of it: that colonel Bedel, thereon, set out himself for Montreal, to procure a
**inforgement; whereupon, the command of the Cedars devolved on major
|Butterfield : *
That, on Thursday, a reinforcement, under the command of major Sher-
burne, marched from Montreal for the Cedars, while a larger detachment
shºld be gºing ready to proceed thither with brigadier-general Arnold: ,
. That, on Friday the 17th, the enemy, under the command of captain Foster,
invested the post at the Cedars, and, for two days, kept up a loose, scattering
\
404 JournALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
-º-
-º-
fire; that major Butterfield proposed, from the very first, to surrender the post,
and refused repeated solicitations from his officers and men, to permit them to
sally out on the enemy i. * º
That, on Sunday afternoon, a flag being sent in by the enemy, major But-
terfield agreed to surrender the fort and garrison to captain Foster, capitu-
lating with him, whether verbally or in writing does not appear, that the gar-
rison should not be put into the hands of the savages, and that their baggage
should not be plundered : s
That, at the time of the surrender, the enemy consisted of about 40 regulars,
100 Canadians, and 500 Indians, and no cannon; the garrison had sustained
no injury from their fire, but the having one man wounded; they had twenty
rounds of cartridges a man, thirty rounds for one field-piece, five for another,
half a barrel of gun-powder, fifteen pounds of musket-ball, and provisions suf-
ficient to have lasted them twenty or thirty days: major Butterfield knew that
a reinforcement was on its way, and moreover, was so near the main body of
the army, that he could not doubt of being supported by that:
That, immediately on the surrender, the garrison was put into the custody
of the savages, who plundered them of their baggage, and even stripped them
of their clothes; \
That major Sherburne, having landed on Mondaythe 20th, at Quinze Chenes,
about nine miles from the Cedars, and marched on with his party, consist-
ing then of 100 men, to within four miles thereof, was there attacked by about .
500 of the enemy: that he maintained his ground about an hour, and then, being
constrained to retreat, performed the same in good order, receiving and return-
ing a constant fire for about forty minutes; when the enemy, finding means
to post advanced parties in such a manner as to intercept his farther retreat,
they also were made prisoners of war: w
That they were immediately put into the custody of the savages, carried to
where major Butterfield and his party were, and stripped of their baggage and
wearing apparel : *
That two of them were put to death that evening, four or five others at dif-
ferent times, afterwards; one of whom was of those who surrendered on capi-
tulation at the Cedars, and was killed on the 8th day after that surrender ; that
one was first shot, and, while retaining life and sensation, was roasted, as was
related by his companion, now in possession of the savages, who himself saw the
fact; and that several others, being worn down by famine and cruelty, were
left exposed in an island naked, and perishing with cold and hunger:
That, while major Sherburne was in custody of the enemy, captain Foster
required of him, and the other officers, to sign a cartel, stipulating the exchange
of themselves and their men for as many, of equal condition, of the British
troops in our possession ; farther, that notwithstanding the exchange, neither
themselves nor men should ever again bear arms against the British govern-
ment; and for the performance of this, four hostages were to be delivered, which,
they being under the absolute power of the enemy, did sign :
That on Sunday, the 26th, the prisoners were carried to Quinze Chenes,
when it was discovered that general Arnold was approaching, and making dis-
positions to attack them : º e
That captain Foster, having desired major Sherburne to attend a flag, which
he was about to send to general Arnold, for confirmation of the cartel, carried
him into the council of Indians, then sitting, who told him that it was a mercy
never before shewn in their wars, that they had put to death so few of the pri;
soners; but that he must expect, and so inform general Arnold, that they should
certainly kill every man who should thereafter fall into their hands :
That captain Foster joined in desiring that this bloody message should bº
delivered to general Arnold; and moreover, that he should be notified, that if
he rejected .. cartel, and attacked him, every man of the prisoners would be
put to instant death:
*.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. * 405
—A-º.
That general Arnold was extremely averse from entering into any agree-
ment, and was at length induced to do it by no other motive than that of saving
the prisoners from cruel and inhuman death, threatened in such terms as left
no doubt it was to be perpetrated, and that he did at length conclude it, after
several flags received from captain Foster, and a relinquishment by him of the
unequal article restraining our soldiers from again bearing arms:
That the prisoners, so stipulated to be given up to the enemy, were not in the
possession of general Arnold, nor under his direction, but were, at that time,
distributed in various parts of the continent, under the orders of this house:
That four hostages were accordingly delivered to captain Foster, who were
immediately plundered and stripped by the savages; and on his part, were de-
livered one major, four captains, sixteen subalterns, and three hundred and fif-
ty-five privates, as specified in a certificate of captain James Osgood and others,
of whom no specification by their names or numbers has yet been transmitted;
that he retained twelve Canadians, alleging in his justification, express orders
, so to do; and that, living in a military government, they were to be considered
even in a worse light than deserters from his majesty’s armies; these he carried
away in irons, but afterwards released : that he permitted the Indians to carry
into their countries several other natives of the United States, for purposes un-
known :
That, during the time of their captivity, not half food was allowed the pri-
soners; they were continually insulted, buffeted, and ill treated by the savages;
and when the first parties of them were carried off from the shore to be deli-
vered to general Arnold, balls of mud were fired at them, and at the last par-
ties, musketballs.
The Congress, taking into consideration the foregoing report, came to the
following resolutions:
Resolved, That all acts contrary to good faith, the laws of nature, or the
customs of civilized nations, done by the officers or soldiers of his Britannic
majesty, or by foreigners or savages taken into his service, are to be considered
as done by his orders, unless indemnification be made, in cases which admit
indemnification, and in all other cases, unless immediate and effective measures
be taken by him, or by his officers, for bringing to condign punishment the au-
thors, abettors, and perpetrators of the act:
That the plundering the baggage of the garrison at the Cedars, stripping
them of their clothes, and delivering them into the hands of the Savages, was a
breach of the capitulation on the part of the enemy, for which indemnification
ought to be demanded :
That the murder of the prisoners of war was a gross and inhuman violation
of the laws of nature and nations: that condign punishment should be inflicted
on the authors, abettors, and perpetrators of the same ; and that, for this pur-
pose, it be required that they be delivered into our hands:
. That the agreement entered into by general Arnold was a mere sponsion on
his part, he not being invested with powers for the disposal of prisoners not in
his possession, nor under his direction; and that, therefore, it is subject to be
ratified or annulled, at the discretion of this house:
That the shameful surrender of the post at the Cedars is chargeable on the
commanding officer: that such other of the prisoners as were taken there, shew-
** a Willingness and desire to fight the enemy; and that major Sherburne, and
the Prisºners taken with him, though their disparity of numbers was great,
fought the enemy bravely for a considerable time, and surrendered at last but
on absolute necessity: on which consideration, and on which alone, it is re-
solved, that the said sponsion be ratified; and that an equal number of captives
from the enemy, of the same rank and condition, be restored to them, as stipu-
lated by the said sponsion: º \ -
That, previous to the delivery of the prisoners to be returned on our part,
the British commander in Canaiabe required to deliver into our hands the au-
f
406 * JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
thors, abettors, and perpetrators of the horrid murder committed on the prison-
ers, to suffer such punishment as their crime deserves ; and also, to make in-
demnification for the plunder at the Cedars, taken contrary to the faith of the
capitulation; and that, until such delivery and indemnification be made, the
said prisoners be not delivered : $
That, if the enemy shall commit any further violences, by putting to death,
torturing, or otherwise ill treating the prisoners retained by them, or any of
the hostages put into their hands, recourse be had to retaliation, as the sole
means of stopping the progress of human butchery; and.that, for that purpose,
punishments of the same kind and degree be inflicted on an equal number of
the captives from them in our possession, till they shall be taught to respect
the violated rights of nations: * w
That a copy of the above report and resolutions be transmitted to the com-
mander in chief of the continental forces, to be by him sent to generals Howe
and Burgoyne.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, July 11, 1776.
Sundry letters were received and read, viz.
One of the 9th, from the convention of New-Jersey:
One of the same date, from the committee of Easton, and three from officers,
prisoners, desiring leave to come to Philadelphia.
Resolved, That the letter from the convention of New-Jersey, be referred to
the board of war, who are desired to report thereon as soon as possible.
Resolved, That Mr. T. Matlack be directed to deliver to Mr. C. Biddle,
deputy quarter-master general for the flying-camp, such of the continental
stores, in his possession, as may be necessar for said flying-camp.
- The general having recommended the following gentlemen to be officers of
the two remaining rifle-companies of colonel Stevenson’s battalion at New-
York, viz.
Philemon Griffith, captain: Richard Davis, captain:
Thomas Hussey Lucket, first-lieutenant: Daniel Cressop, first-lieutenant:
Adamson Tannehill, second-lieutenant: . Nieman Tannehill, second-lieutenant:
Henry Hardman, third-lieutenant: Henry Hardman, third-lieutenant:
Resolved, That they be accepted, and commissions granted to them ac-
cordingly. * f
Resolved, That an order for 213 dollars and one-third, be drawn on the
treasurers, in favor of the delegates of Maryland, to defray the expenses of
transporting powder to Maryland; they to be accountable.
Three petitions, one from major Melchior, one from John Doyle, and one
from Benjamin Flower, were presented to Congress, and read: *
Resolved, That they be referred to the board of war.
A petition from John Cox was presented to Congress and read: Whereupon,
Fesolved, That the secret committee be directed to sell Mr. Cox half a ton
of powder, for the use of the private vessel of war by him fitted out.
A petition from Cox, Ferman, and others, was presented to Congress, and
read, together with a memorial from the committee of inspection and observa-
tion for the city and liberties of Philadelphia, recommending their case to the
notice of Congress; Whereupon,
. Resolved, That the petitioners have leave to dispose of the goods mentioned
in their petition. * sº
A letter of the 10th, from general Washington, and five letters of the 5th
and 6th, from governor Trumbull, were laid before Congress, and read.
The board of war, to whom the letter from the convention of New-Jersey was
referred, brought in a report, which was taken into consideration ; Whereupon,
, Résolved, That a letter be written to the convention of New-Jersey, inform:
ing them,--that, as they have not enclosed to Congress, copies of general
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 407
mºr-º- -wº
Washington’s and brigadier-general Livingston’s letters, no judgment can be
formed by Congress, concerning the contents of them, until copies are sent;—
that measures are taking in Pennsylvania and Maryland, for forming the flying-
camp;—that, in the mean while, the associated militia are marching, in great
numbers, from Pennsylvania, for the defence of New-Jersey;-that ammuni-
tion has been, and j be, supplied by this Congress, for the defence of New-
Jersey;-that, with regard to the pay of the militia, Congress will observe the
same rule of conduct towards New-Jersey, as towards other colonies:
That it be notified to the convention of Virginia, that the Congress are wil-
ling to take into, continental possession, the forts at the mouths of Wheeling
and the Great Kanhaway, and the fort at Pittsburg, now in possession of that
colony; and also to receive, on the continental establishment, the garrisons in
these forts, if the said convention shall desire it.
The marine committee reported, that in pursuance of the order of Congress,
they have called before them, divers of the inferior officers, belonging to the
ships Alfred and Columbus, and having heard their complaints against the cap-
tains, Saltonstal and Whipple, in their presence, are of opinion, that the charge
against captain Saltonstal does not appear to the committee to be well found-
ed, and that the charge against captain Whipple amounts to nothing more than
a rough, indelicate mode of behaviour to his marine officers; Whereupon,
Pesolved, That the marine committee be directed to order the captains, Sal-
tonstal and Whipple, to repair to their respective commands; and that it be
recommended to captain Whipple to cultivate harmony with his officers.
Dr. Franklin, one of the commissioners to Canada, laid before Congress an
account of his expenditures:
Resolved, That the same be referred to the board of treasury.
The president acquainted Congress, that last evening, information was given
to him, of a conspiracy or plot carrying on for liberating the prisoners in, the
gaol of Philadelphia, and other evil designs; Whereupon,
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed, and that they, together
with the president, be directed to make strict enquiry into the truth of the
matter; and, if they find the information well grounded, to take such steps as
they shall judge prudent and effectual, for defeating the machinations of the
conspirators; and, in case of necessity, to call upon the brigadier-general, or
commanding officer of the associators, for the aid of the military:
The members chosen, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Stockton, Mr. Gwinnett, Mr. Mor-
ris, and Mr. Wilson.
A letter from Mr. Mease was laid before Congress and read ; Whereupon,
Resolved, That an order for 40,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favour of Mr. Mease, to enable him to advance a month’s pay to the military
associators of Pennsylvania, ordered into New-Jersey, and to those who en-
gage to form the flying-camp; he to be accountable.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due, l
d º Thomas Amor, for boarding general Lee's guard the sum of 34 22-90
Ol 13:1°S :
To colonel Nelson, for expenses of an express, the sum of 4 84-90 dollars:
To Casper Miller, for provisions, &c. for general Lee’s guard, the sum of
83 27-90 dollars: *
To Thomas Dundas for rifles supplied colonel Irwine’s battalion, the sum of
31378.90 dollars and that the same ought to be charged to said battalion :
To Joseph Hewes, esq. for expenses paid for the carriage, guard, &c. of pow-
der, to North-Carolina, the sum of 666 34-90 dollars:
To Timothy Matlack, on account, 200 dollars: -
To William Trickett, for stationary, the sum of 204 51-90 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
4:08 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
The committee, to whom the letter from John Macpherson, of the 31st of
May, was referred, reported,
That they have examined Mr. Macpherson, respecting the contents of his
letter, who alleged, that he had a promise of being appointed commander in
chief of the American navy, by Messrs. Randolph, Hopkins and J. Rutledge,
a committee of Congress to whom he communicated an important secret, but
that he produed no evidence in support of such allegation ; that they enquired
of Mr. Hopkins about this promise, in the presence of Mr. Macpherson, and
that Mr. Hopkins declared he recollected nothing of the kind: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the application and request of Mr Macpherson is unreason-
able. f
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, July 12, 1776.
Sundry letters were laid before Congress, and read, viz.
One of the 11th, from brigadier-general Wooster:
One from Mrs. Conolly, and
One of the 10th, from the convention of New-Jersey :
Fesolved, That the last be referred to the board of war.
Resolved, That the committee appointed, on the 8th of May last, on the
instructions given to commodore Hopkins, be discharged ; and that the matters
to them referred, be committed to the marine committee, who are invested with
the same powers as the committee, now discharged, were at their appointment;
and that the said marine committee be directed to proceed to enquire, as well
how far the said commodore has complied with the instructions given him by
the naval committee, as into the complaints reported by the marine committee
on the 13th of June, to have been exhibited against him. ,
The committee appointed to examine the claims of Mr. Charles Walker,
for the hire and expenses of his sloop Endeavour, and the damages he has
sustained, in consequence of her being taken into the service of the United
Colonies, and brought from New-Providence to New-London by commodore
Hopkins, brought in their report, which was taken into consideration; Where-
upon,
"ºoled, That the said sloop Endeavour be restored to the said Charles
Walker, with all her stores and materials, as she came from Sea, and now lies
at New-London: t
That the sum of two thousand dollars be paid to the said Charles Walker,
for the hire of her, and in lieu of all losses, damages, premiums of insurance,
and expenses whatever:
That the said Charles Wakker be permitted to invest the balance of the
said 2000 dollars, or what remains, after defraying his expenses, and paying
for the repairs of the out-fit of his vessel, in produce, and export the same.
The committee appointed to prepare articles of confederation brought in a
draught, which was read: ****
Ordered, That eighty copies, and no more, of the \
in by the committee, be immediately printed, and depô
who shall deliver one copy to each member: *
That the printer be under oath to deliver all the copies, which he shall print,
together with the copy-sheet, to the secretary, and not to disclose either directly
or indirectly, the contents of the said confederation:
That no member furnish any person with his copy, or take any steps by
which the said confederation may be re-printed, and that the secretary be un-
der the like injunction.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the memorial of the dis
ºrseneral of the American hospital, brought in their report, which was
read : w
º
+
. *ration, as brought
fe.”with the secretary,


JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 409
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That Mr. Hopkinson be added to the marine committee :
Resolved, That the secretary be empowered to employ an assistant clerk.
The committee on the treasury, to whom the account of Dr. Franklin, one
of the commissioners to Canada, was referred, reported, that there is due to
said Dr. Franklin, the sum of 1221 13-90 dollars; of which *
560 dollars to be charged to brigadier-general Arnold :
124 do. advanced to Charles Carroll, of Carrollton, esq.
164 do. and 78-90ths, paid for bedding, &c. for the use of the commision-
ers, and which now remains deposited with the commissary of stores at Alba-
ny, and
*:: 2 dollars and 30-90ths, expended by Messrs. Franklin and J. Carroll, in
their journey to, and from, and in, Canada :
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Adjourned to nine o’clock on Monday next.
The Congress being called together on
SUNDAY, July 14, 1776,
Two letters from general Washington, dated 11th and 12th, were laid be-
fore Congress, and read.
Resolved, That an order for 20,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in
, favor of C. Biddle, deputy quarter-master general, for the use of the flying-
camp and militia ordered to New-Jersey; he to be accountable :
That Mr. Biddle be directed to use every method to forward the flour at
Trenton to the places where it is wanted:
That he be empowered to appoint an assistant:
That he be directed to furnish tents, camp-kettles, and canteens for an
army of 20,000 men, including such of those articles, as he has received from
Mr. Mease :
J That he be directed to employ one or more armourers for the army in New-
erSev :
i. application be made to the convention of New-Jersey to supply all the
lead they possibly can for the flying-camp and militia:
That application be made to the committee of safety of Pennsylvania, de-
siring them to supply the flying-camp, and militia, in New-Jersey, with as
many musket cartrid well balled, as they can possibly spare:
That the secret c littee be directed to supply the committee of safety of
Pennsylvania, with dºllantity of powder, equal to that spared to the continent
in cartridges: w
That an express be sent to overtake the powder-wagons gone to Virginia, with
a letter to colonel F. Lewis, desiring him to send in the return-wagons, all the
lead he can collect at Fredericksburg: *
That the committee, or council of safety of Virginia, be requested to send to
Philadelphia, by the return of the wagons, as much of the lead they now have
at Yºº as they can spare, and to order from the mines 15 or 20
tons º e of lead to Philadelphia, as soon as possible:
Thaga letter be written to the commanding officer in New-Jersey, to march
such of the militia, and flying-camp, to Brunswick or other places in New-Jer-
sey, as he may judge necessary, and most conducive to the public service;
pººl that this does not interfere with any prior directions of general Wash-
Ington :
That the committee of safety of Pennsylvania be requested, immediately,
to order to the several places of their destination, all the British officers,
prisoners, in this city: their wives not to be desired to go until the weather is
more suitable: \
Vol. Fs 52 - tº:


410 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
That the commanding officer in Pennsylvania be desired to issue fresh or-
ders, and exert himself, to forward the immediate march of the militia to
New-Jersey: The service requiring their being immediately embodied, as ap-
ears by the advices received by express from general Washington : :-
That the deputy quarter-master-general be directed to request the use of
some house of public worship, to cover the troops during their short stay in
this city.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
MONDAY, July 15, 1776.
Sundry letters were laid before Congress, and read, viz.
One from Mr. J. Jay, of the 6th, enclosing a memorial from Samuel Tredwell
Pell, of the manor of Pelham : s:
One from the committee of Lancaster, of the 11th :
One from the committee of Reading, of the 13th ; and,
Two from the convention of New-York, of the 11th, with sundry papers en-
closed ; among which were the following resolutions:
“IN convention of THE REPRESENTATIVEs of THE STATE of New-York,
“White-Plains, July 9, 1776.
“Resolved unanimously, That the reasons assigned by the Continental Con-
gress for declaring the United Colonies Free and Independent States, are
cogent and conclusive ; and, that while we lament the cruel necessity which
has rendered that measure unavoidable, we approve the same, and will, at the
risk of our lives and fortunes, join with the other colonies in supporting it.
“Resolved unanimously, That the delegates of this state, in the Continental
Congress, be, and they hereby are authorized to concert and adopt all such
measures as they may deem conducive to the happiness and welfare of the
United States of America.
“Extract from the minutes,
“ROBERT BENSON, Secretary.”
Resolved, That the letters from the convention of New-York, with the papers
enclosed, be referred to the board of war :
That the general’s letters of the 10th, 11th, and 12th, be referred to the
board of war. *
Resolved, That the case of the officers ordered from New-Jersey to Penn-
sylvania, be referred to the board of war, and that they be directed to examine
into the conduct of said officers, and their servants; and to order them to such
places, and to be disposed of in such manner, as they shall think proper.
Resolved, That the sum of 55 dollars be paid to major Henry Sherburne, for
his expenses from the 6th of June, the time he left Canada, to this day, with
a farther allowance of eight days expenses to join his regiment.
Resolved, That two members be elected for the board of treasury, in the
room of two who are absent. g t
The members chosen, Mr. P. Livingston and Mr. Read.
A letter from an officer of colonel Hazen's battalion, was laid before Con-
gress, and read. §
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee on the miscarriages in Ca-
nada. i
A petition and memorial of captain James Ross, was received and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee of claims.
Resolved, That it be recommended to Patrick Henry, esq. governor of Vir-
ginia, to give orders for manning and sending to sea, under convoy, the brigan-
tine Fanny, captain Tokely, which is loaded on account of the continent.
Resolved, That a committee, to consist of a member from Virginia, º:
land, Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, be appointed to consider the
propriety and means of augmenting the flying camp:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 41i
The members chosen, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Stone, Mr. Read, Mr. Morton, and
Mr. Stockton.
I?esolved, That the battalion for the defence of the western frontiers, be
raised in the counties of Westmoreland and Bedford, in the following propor-
tions, to wit: seven companies in Westmoreland, and one company in Bedford:
That the commissioned officers of the several companies, be appointed by
the committee of the county in which they are to be raised.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for electing the field officers of the
German battalion. -
Resolved, That a chief physician be appointed for the flying camp, and that
his pay be four dollars a day:
The ballots being taken and examined,
Doctor William Shippen, jun. was elected.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for electing a commissary of military
stores, and a § adjutant-general for the flying camp.
Resolved, That Thursday morning be assigned for taking into consideration
the report of the committee of ways and means.
Resolved, That Alexander M*Donnald, son of captain M'Donnald, be liberated
on his parole, and allowed to reside with his father.
A petition from John Hannum, was presented to Congress, and read.
Resolved, That the same, together with the papers accompanying it, be re-
ferred to the secret committee.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, July 16, 1776.
Sundry letters were laid before Congress, and read, viz.
One from general Washington, of the 14th :
One from brigadier-general Sullivan, of the 2d, from Crown-Point:
One from the committee of Lancaster, of the 13th :
One from Samuel Blackden, of the 16th :
º That the letter from general Washington be referred to the board
Of War :
That Samuel Blackden be referred to the deputy pay-master and deputy
commissary-general in the northern department.
Resolved, That general Washington be desired to lodge powder with such
persons as he may think proper, for the use of such parts of the state of New-
York, as he may apprehend exposed to danger, and that the commanding officer
in New-Jersey do the same in that colony; and that general Washington, and
the said commanding officer in New-Jersey, be empowered to draw, from the
mills of Messrs. Wisner, Livingston and Ford, any powder which may be re-
quisite for these purposes, or for the use of their respective camps.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration:
Whereupon,
Resolved, That there be appointed, by the commanding officer of each regi-
ment in the continental army, a serjeant-major, quarter-master serjeant, drum-
major and fife-major, who shall respectively hold no other appointment but
those before mentioned, and that their pay be one dollar a month each, more
than that allowed to a serjeant, drum or fife in said regiment:
...That a warrant be made out to John Doyle, to be a captain of a company of
riflemen to be raised for three years, unless sooner discharged by Congress;
his commission to be given him as soon as his company is full:
That a pay-master be appointed to each regiment in the army of the United
States, with a salary of 26 dollars and two-thirds a month.
That the application to Congress from Mr. Rowland Chambers, desiring to
be appointed pay-master to the New-Jersey troops at New-York, cannot be
Complied with, as such an appointment would interfere with the duty of the
Pay-master general, within whose department it properly lies:
412 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
That half a dollar a week be allowed to each of the Connecticut light horse,
who have joined the army at New-York, for the maintenance of his horse, for
so long time, only, as the general shall think it necessary for such horse to con-
tinue in the service :
That general Schuyler be directed to take every possible precaution to cleanse
the army, under his command, from the infection of the small pox :
That it be recommended to the convention of Pennsylvania, now sitting, to
take such measures as they may judge proper and necessary, for procuring as
much lead, within that state, as can be obtained for the supply of the flying-camp :
That three commissioners be appointed by Congress, to repair, as soon as
may be, to New-York, there to audit the accounts of the commissary-general,
quarter-master general, and director-general of the hospital, and all other ac:
counts of the army; the said commissioners to take an oath for the faithful
execution of their trust:
That three commissioners be appointed, for the like purposes, in the north-
ern army l
That general Washington be informed, that the bounty granted by the reso-
lution .# Congress of the 26th of June, was intended as a general regulation,
and to extend to all such men, now in the continental service, and all others,
who will inlist for the term of three years, to be computed from and after the
expiration of the term of their present inlistment. **
Resolved, That Monsieur Kirmovan be appointed an engineer in the eonti-
nental service, with the pay of 60 dollars a month, and the rank of lieutenant-
colonel :
That he be ordered immediately to repair to New-Jersey, and put himself
under the command of the officer commanding the flying-camp.
Resolved, That Richard Humpton be employed in the continental service,
with the rank and pay of lieutenant-colonel:
That Samuel Dawson be employed in the continental service, with the rank
and pay of captain :
That they be ordered to repair immediately to New-Jersey, and put them-
selves under the command of the officer commanding the flying-camp.
Resolved, That general Washington be desired to call to his assistance, at
New-York, two thousand of the men who have marched into New-Jersey to
form the flying-camp; and that the convention of New-Jersey be requested
immediately to supply their places with an equal number of the militia of that
state: that letters be written to the states of Massachusetts-Bay, Connecticut
and New-Jersey, setting forth the situation of our affairs in the New-York de-
artment, and pressing them immediately to comply with the requisition of
8. of the 3d of June : , Wºh,
That the situation of our army at New-York be pointed out to the state of
*
tº
T
Connecticut; and that it be earnestly recommended to that state, immediately
to send all the militia thereof, which can be spared, into New-York, to rein-
force the army there, and continue in service until the proportions requested
of the several states shall arrive. *
The Congress proceeded to the election of a commissary of military stores
º . flying-camp; and, the ballots being taken, Benjamin Flower, esq. was
elected. .
A letter from S. Chase, esq. of the 8th, was laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That the same, together with the petition of Mr. Mentges, read
the 12th, be referred to the delegates of Pennsylvania and Maryland.
A petition from captain Benedict was presented to Congress, and read;
Whereupon, }
Resolved, That a copy of said petition be sent to general Schuyler, and that
he be desired to order the accounts of captain Benedict to be settled and paid,
or to inform Congress of the reasons why payment ought to be withheld.
w;
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 413
Resolved, That Mr. Wisner be empowered to employ a proper person to
manufacture gun-flints.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, July 17, 1776.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed immediately to deliver to
Mr. J. Mease, half a ton of saltpetre, to be by him forwarded to colonel Moy-
lan, quarter-master general.
Sundry letters were laid before Congress, and read, viz.
One from the convention of New-York, dated the 12th, with sundry papers
enclosed, which were referred to the board of war:
One from brigadier-general Wooster;
One, of the 11th, from Richard Ellis; and,
One of the 15th, from Carpenter Wharton. *
Resolved, That an order for 15,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, is
favor of Carpenter Wharton; he to be accountable.
The board of war, to whom the letter of general Washington, of the 14th,
was referred, brought in their report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
I?esolved, That general Washington, in refusing to receive a letter said to
be sent from lord Howe, addressed to “George Washington, esq.” acted with
a dignity becoming his station; and, therefore, this Congress do highly ap-
prove the same; and do direct, that no letter or message be received, on any
occasion whatsoever, from the enemy, by the commander in chief, or others,
the commanders of the American army, but such as shall be directed to them
in the characters they respectively sustain.
The president informed Congress, that he had been under the disagreeable
necessity of committing captain Gamble to prison, on account of his ill-beha-
'viour; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to enquire into the conduct of
3. Gamble, since he was made prisoner of war, and report specially to
ongress.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the me-
morial of the director-general of the American hospital; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the number of hospital surgeons and mates be increased, in
proportion to the augmentation of the army, not exceeding one surgeon and five
mates to every five thousand men, to be reduced when the army is reduced, or
when there is no further occasion for such a number :
That as many persons be employed in the several hospitals, in quality of
store-keepers, stewards, managers, and nurses, as are necessary for the ser-
i for the time being, to be appointed by the directors of the respective hos-
pltals:
That the several regimental chests of medicines, and chirurgical instru-
ments, which now are or hereafter shall be, in the possession of the regimental
Surgeons, be subject to the inspection and enquiry of the respective durectors of
º: and the director-general ; and that the said regimental surgeons
shall, from time to time, when thereto required, render account of the said me-
dicines and instruments to the said director, or if there be no director in any
particular department, to the director general ; the said accounts to be trans-
mitted to the director-general, and by him to this Congress; and the medicines
and instruments not used by any regimental surgeon, to be returned when the
regiment, is reduced, to the respective directors, and an account thereof by
thº rendered to the director-general, and by him to this Congress:
That the several directors of hospitals, in the several departments, and the
regimental Surgeons, where there is no director, shall transmit to the director-
general regular returns of the number of surgeons' mates, and other officers em-
f
414 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
|
*-*—
ployed under then, their names and pay; also, an account of the expenses and
furniture of the hospital under their direction; and that the director-general
make report of the same, from time to time, to the commander in chief, and this
Congress :
that the several regimental and hospital surgeons, in the several depart-
ments, make weekly returns of the sick to the respective directors in their de-
partments:
That no regimental surgeon be allowed to draw upon the hospital of his de-
partment, for any stores except medicines and instruments; and that, when any
sick person shall require other stores, they shall be received into the said hos-
pital, and the rations of the said sick persons be stopped, so long as they are in
the said hospital; and that the directors of the several hospitals report to the
commissary, the names of the sick, when received into, and when discharged
from the hospital, and make a like return to the board of treasury:
That all extra expenses for bandages, old linen, and other articles necessary
for the service, incurred by any regimental surgeon, be paid by the director of
that department, with the approbation of the commander thereof:
That no umore medicines belonging to the continent be disposed of, till fur-
ther order of Congress :
That the pay of the hospital-surgeons be increased to one dollar and two-
thirds of a dollar by the day; the pay of the hospital mates to one dollar by the
day; and the pay of the hospital apothecary to one dollar and two-thirds of a
dollar by the day; and that the hospital surgeons and mates take rank of regi-
mental surgeons and mates:
That the director-general, and the several directors of hospitals, be empow-
ered to purchase, with the approbation of the commander of the respective de-
partments, medicines, and instruments for the use of their respective hospitals,
and draw upon the pay-master for the same, and make report of such purchases
to Congress.
Resolved, That Nicholas Hauseigger be colonel ; George Stricker, lieutenant-
colonel ; Ludewick Wiltner, inajor of the German battalion.
Resolved, That another company be added to the German battalion :
That David Welper be appointed captain of said company.
Resolved, That Samuel Brady be first lieutenant, William M*Murray, second
lieutenant, Henry Fortney, third lieutenant, of captain Doyle’s independent
rifle company.
The Congress proceeded to the election of a deputy pay-master general for
the flying camp; and the ballots being taken,
Richard Dallam, esq. was elected. -
Resolved, That colonel Smallwood, from Maryland, be ordered to repair, as
soon as possible, with the troops under his command, to New-York, and put
himself under the command of the general :
That the general be informed that these troops are to be considered as part of
the two thousand which he was empowered to call to his assistance from the
flying-camp, by the resolution passed yesterday.
Resolved, That it be earnestly recommended to the convention of New-Jer-
sey, to cause all the stock on the sea-coast, which they shall apprehend to bc.
in danger of falling into the hands of the enemy, to be immediately removed,
and driven back into the country to a place of security.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to revise the journals, and
direct what parts eught to be published: * * *
The members chosen, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Lynch, jun. and Mr. Hopkinson:
A petition from Jean Baptista de Vidal, of Canada, was presented to Con-
gress, and read : } g
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of five, and that they be dire!"
ed to enquire into the character of the petitioner, and all others in similar cir-
cumstances, applying for relief, and report thereon to Congress:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 415
The members chosen, Mr. Rush, Mr. Paca, Mr. Heyward, Mr. Chase, and
Mr. Walton.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Harrison, and Mr. Morris, be a commit-
tee to bring in a resolution for subjecting to confiscation the property of the sub-
jects of the crown of Great-Britain, and particularly of the inhabitants of the
British West Indies, taken on the high seas, or between high and low-water
mark.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the
rules and orders for the government of the house ; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the following rules be observed :
1. So soon as nine states are present, that the Congress proceed to business.
2. No member shall depart from the service of the house, without permission
of the Congress, or order from his constituents. sº
3. No member shall read any printed paper in the house during the sitting
thereof, without leave of the Congress.
4. When the house is sitting, no member shall speak to another, so as to
interrupt any member who may be speaking in the debate.
5. Every member, when he speaks, shall rise from his seat, and address
himself to the chair, and when he has finished, shall sit down again.
6. No member shall speak more than twice in any one debate, without leave
of the house.
7. When two members rise together, the president shall name the person to
speak.
P. No motion shall be debated, until the same be seconded.
9. When a motion shall be made, and seconded, it shall be reduced to writ-
ing, if desired by the president or any member, delivered in at the table, and
read by the president, before the same shall be allowed to be debated.
10. When a motion is made and seconded, the matter of the motion shall
receive a determination by the question, or be laid aside, by general consent,
or postponed by the previous question, before any other motion be received.
i 1. If a question in a debate contain more parts than one, any member
may have the same divided into as many questions as parts.
i2. No person shall be appointed to any office of profit, unless he shall have
the consent of seven states, nor shall any ballots be counted, unless the person
for whom the ballots shall be given, be first named to the house, before the bal-
loting be gone into.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, July 18, 1776.
The delegates from Maryland laid before Congress the credentials of a new
appointment made by their convention, which were read as follows:
“In Convention, ANNAPolis, July 4, 1776.
“Resolved. That the honorable Matthew Tilghman, esq. and Thomas John-
son, jun. William Paca, Samuel Chase, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll, of Car-
rollton, and Robert Alexander, esqrs. or a majority of them, or of any three
or more ºf them, be deputies to represent this colony in Congress, in as full
and ample manner as the deputies of this colony might have done under any
appointment heretofore made, until the next convention shall make farther
order therein. Extract from the minutes :
G. DUWALL, Clerk. **
A letter from general Wahington, of the 15th, was laid before Congress, and
ºad ; also, sundry intercepted letters from lord Howe to governors Franklin,
Penn, Eden, Dunmore, Martin and wright, together with Sundry letters to
several private persons:
416 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That these letters be referred to a committee of three, and that
they be directed to examine the private letters, and deliver to the persons
to whom directed, such of said letters as contain nothing but private matters .
The members chosen, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Paine and Mr. Carroll. º
A letter of the 17th from general Washington, enclosing sundry despatches
from general Schuyler; * S -
Also, a letter of the 16th, from brigadier-general Mercer, were received and
read :
Resolved, That these be referred to the board of war.
A letter of the 14th, from the committee of inspection for the county of
Cumberland, was read ; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the sum of 2,600 dollars be sent to the committee of
inspection and observation, for the county of Cumberland, for the use of the
troops raising in that county for the flying-camp; the said committee to be
accountable. * w
Resolved, That a member be added to the board of war:
The member chosen, Mr. Carroll. ** |
The committee appointed to prepare a plan of treaties to be entered into
with foreign states or kingdoms, brought in a report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table. *
Resolved, That the draught of Ephraim Blaine, for two thousand dollars, on
account of blankets, purchased by order of Congress for the continental troops
in Virginia, be paid, and charged to the account of said Ephraim Blaine.
Resolved, That the convention of Pennsylvania be informed, that the Con-
gress have agreed to the raising of a battalion in the counties of Westmore-
land and Bedford, for the defence of the western frontiers, and that they be
requested immediately to recommend proper persons to Congress for field
officers for said battalion. • * ^.
Resolved, That two members be added to the committee appointed to con-
tract for the making cannon: * }
The members chosen, Mr. Chase and Mr. Heyward.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to morrow. *
FRIDAY, July 19, 1776.
Resolved, That two months pay be advanced to colonel Kirmovan; he to be
accountable. -
Iłesolved, That an order be drawn for 400 dollars, on the treasurers, in favor
of David S. Franks, in full of brigadier-general D. Wooster’s draught, in his
favor, on Jonathan Trumbull, dated at Chambly, the 30th of May, 1776.
Resolved, That the subaltern officers of the German battalion, do not rank
from the dates of their commissions, but that their ranks be established here- ,
after by Congress. {
The committee of safety of Pennsylvania, having recommended Frederick
Rowlwagen, Peter Boyer, William Rice, and Jacob Bower, for first lieutenants:
George Shaffer, George Hawbecker, John Landenberger, and Frederick Yeiser,
for second lieutenants: John Weidman, Christian Helm, Christian Godfried
Swartz, and Jacob Cramer, for ensigns of the four German companies raising
in Pennsylvania. ;
Resolved, That they be accepted, and that commissions be granted to them
accordingly. * --
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration:
Whereupon, } t.
Resolved, That general Schuyler be desired to enquire into the complaints
of the soldiers under his command, and give strict orders, that no higher price
be charged for the goods furnished to the soldiers, than the first cost of them,
and five per cent. for charges:
f
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 4}?'
That the resolution of Congress, prohibiting any officer from holding more
offices than one, be sent to general Schuyler;
That a letter be written to general Schuyler, requesting him to recommend,
in the strongest terms, harmony between the officers and troops of the different
states; to discountenance and suppress all provincial reflections and ungene-
rous jealousies of every kind, ...} to promote, by every possible means, disci-
pline, order, and zeal in the public service.
Resolved, That it be earnestly recommended to the convention of Pennsyl-
vania, to hasten, with all possible expedition, the march of the associators into
New-Jersey, agreeable to a former request of Congress.
Resolved, That the delegates of Maryland be directed to inform the com-
manding officer of the Maryland troops, that Congress expect he will imme-
diately march with his troops to New-York. -
The committee appointed to prepare a resolution for subjecting to confisca-
tion the property of the subjects of Great-Britain, &c. brought in the same,
which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table, and that the same be taken into consideration
on Monday next.
The Congress proceeded to the election of a deputy adjutant-general for the
flying-camp; .." the ballots being taken,
Samuel Griffin, esq. was elected.
ºved, That Mr. Griffin, as deputy adjutant-general, have the rank of
colonel.
The committee appointed to enquire into the causes of the miscarriages in
Canada, brought in a report, which was read: gº
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That the committee have leave to sit again.
The committee, to whom the letters from lord Howe to Mr. Franklin,
&c. were referred, brought in a report, which was taken into consideration:
Whereupon,
Resolved, That a copy of the circular letters, and the declaration enclosed
from lord Howe to Mr. William Franklin, Mr. Penn, Mr. Eden, lord Dun-
more, Mr. Martin, and sir James Wright, which were sent to Amboy, by a flag,
and forwarded to Congress by general Washington, be published in the several
gazettes, that the good people of these United States may be informed of what
nature are the commissioners, and what the terms, with expectation of which,
the insidious court of Britain has endeavored to amuse and disarm them, and
that the few, who still remain suspended by a hope founded either in the justice
or moderation of their late king, may now, at length, be convinced, that the
valor alone of their country is to save its liberties.
The Congress proceeded to the election of commissioners for settling the
accounts of New-York; and, the ballots being taken,
Mr. Wm. Denning, Mr. Thos. Smith, and Mr. James Stevenson, were elected.
A letter of the 2d, from general Lee at Charleston, enclosing sundry pa-
pers, was laid before Congress, and read: A
Ørdered. That an extract of general Lee's letter be published.
*solved, That the committee appointed to contract for the making cannon,
be empowered to contract with Messrs. Hughes for one thousand tons of can.
non, on the terms º them proposed.
...”. That the paper makers in Pennsylvania be excused from proceed-
ing with the associators to New-J ersey. *
Adjourned to nine o'clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, July 20, 1776.
* That the letter from general Lee, with the papers enclosed, which
were received and read yesterday be referred to the board of war,
VoI. I. 53
418 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
\
Resolved, That the thanks of the United States of America be given to ma-
jor-general Lee, colonel William Moultrie, colonel William Thompson, and
the officers and soldiers under their command, who, on the 28th of June last,
repulsed, with so much valor, the attack which was made that day on the state
of South-Carolina, by the fleet and army of his Britannic .
That Mr. President transmit the foregoing resolution to genera
Moultrie and colonel William Thompson.
* ºn and memorial of Monsieur Pelissier was presented to Congress,
aIAC l’eaCl < f
Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war.
The committee appointed to settle a cartel for the exchange of prisoners,
brought in their report, which was read :
Ordered, To lie on the table, and that the same be taken into consideration
on Monday next. -
The convention of Pennsylvania having directed the common prisoners to be
removed from the new gaol to the old, and the said new gaol to be given up to
the Congress for the use of the state prisoners,
Resolved, That Robert Jewel be appointed keeper of the said new gaol, and
that he take custody of the prisoners committed to his charge.
Resolved, That the plan of treaties be printed for the use of the members,
i.ee, colonel
, under the restrictions and regulations prescribed for printing the plan of con-
federation ; and that, in the printed copy, the names of persons, places and
states, be omitted.
Resolved, That brigadier-general Lewis be directed to forward to South-
Carolina, the whole five tons of powder sent to him for the use of Virginia and
South-Carolina.
Resolved, That the sum of 3000 dollārs, part of the 10,000 dollars voted for
the commisioners of Indian affairs in the middle department, be advanced to
Mr. J. Wilson, to be by him forwarded to the commissioners appointed to at-
tend the treaty at Pittsburg.
Resolved, That the sum of 210 dollars be advanced to the captain of the
. who is to escort the prisoners from New-Jersey to the place of their
estination, in order to defray expenses; he to be accountable.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration :
Whereupon, -
Resolved, That a brevet commission of lieutenant-colonel be granted to
Mons. Jaque Antoine de Franchessin, a knight of the order of St. Louis, an ex-
perienced officer in the French service, and who is well recommended in let-
ters from abroad ; and that he be ordered to join the flying-camp.
Resolved, That Dr. Senter be recommended to Dr. Morgan; who is desired
to examine him ; and if, upon examination, he be found qualified, to employ
him in the hospital as a surgeon. -
A letter of the 19th, from general Washington, enclosingsundry papers; and,
A letter of the 13th, from governor Trumbull, with a list of the cannon at
New-London, were laid before Congress and read.
Resolved, That the deputy quarter-master general for the flying-camp, be
directed to deliver to .. Smallwood, for the use of the Maryland troops,
such necessaries, in his possession, belonging to the continent, as the said
troops may want.
The delegatds, of Pennsylvania produced credentials of a new appoint-
ment, which were read as follows: ~
“IN convention for THE STATE of PENNsylvania, Saturday, July 20, 1776.
“The house met according to adjournment; when, according to the order
of the day, they immediately proceeded to the election of delegates to serve
in the Continental Congress; and chose for that service, Dr. Benjamin Frank:
lin, colonel George Ross, George Clymer, esq. Robert Morris, esq. colonel
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 419
James Wilson, John Morton, esq. Dr. Benjamin Rush, colonel James Smith,
and George Taylor, esq. f
“True extract from the minutes,
JOHN MORRIS, Secretary.”
Resolved, That colonel Hazlet be ordered to march immediately with his
battalion, to Philadelphia, and there wait the further orders of Congress.
Resolved, That the sum of 200,000 dollars be sent to the deputy pay-master
eneral for Virginia; he to be accountable.
The convention of Pennsylvania, having recommended gentlemen for field-
officers of the battalion ordered to be raised for the defence of the western
frontiers, Congress proceeded to the election; when,
Eneas M'Coy was elected colonel ; George Wilson, lieutenant-colonel;
Richard Butler, major.
Resolved, That the sum of 12,500 dollars be advanced to colonel M'Coy,
for the bounty and expense of raising said battalion; he to be accountable.
John Boyd was elected pay-master to said battalion.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To captain Dundee, for his subsistence to the 19th instant, and, for carriage
of baggage, 86 dollars: ---
To Dr. Beaumont, to the same date, 85 22-90 dollars:
To ensign M'Leod, to the 20th instant, 110 60-90 dollars:
To Finley Miller, surgeon’s mate of the 26th regiment, to the 19th of July
instant, 79 dollars :
To Arthur Wadman, lieutenant of the 26th regiment, to the 22d of July
instant, 162 60-90 dollars:
To James Gill, surgeon of artillery, to the 19th of July instant, 74 dollars:
To Jacob Shalek, lieutenant of artillery, to the 19th of July inst. 74 dollars:
To lieutenant Ibbetson Hamar, to the 19th of July instant, 40 dollars:
To captain Hesket, for carriage, 75 30-90 dollars; and, that the same ought
to be paid, agreeable to their request, to Peter Dundee, captain of the royal
fuzileers: *
That there is due to Michael Brecht, for provisions and attendance of sick
soldiers at Reading, the sum of 17 42-90 dollars:
To Bryan Lefferty, a hostage sent from Tryon county, for his subsistence
and expenses thence to Philadelphia, 41 80-90 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That Dr. Franklin may, if he thinks proper, return an answer to
the letter he received from Lord Howe. -
The committee appointed to devise ways and means for encreasing the fly-
ing-camp, brought in their report, which was taken into consideration: Where-
upon,
Resolved, That brigadier-general Lewis be directed to order two battalions
of continental troops, in Virginia, to march, with all possible despatch, to the
flying-camp, in New-Jersey, under the command of brigadier-general Mercer;
and that if the governor and privy-council of Virginia shall have reason to ap-
Prehend an invasion of that state, and shall call to its defence an equal number
of minute-men or militia, the same, while in service, shall be on the pay and
Support of the continent: w
hat the convention of Pennsylvania be requested to augment their quota
for the flying-camp, with four battalions of militia, and the convention of New-
Jersey tº raise, for the said flying-camp, three battalions of militia, in addition
to those formerly desired by Congress, and to send the same, with all possible,
despatch, to the said flying-camp. And, that these several battalions be offi-
i. paid and provided, as directed by the former resolutions for forming the
ying-camp.
: Resolved, That in case Mr. Heyman Levy order any money to be paid in
Albany to the deputy pay-master general for the northern, department, the
420 Journals OF CONGRESS, 1776
(
same shall, upon advice of such money so paid, be repaid to him or his order
in Philadelphia. w
Adjourned to nine o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, July 22, 1776.
A letter of the 20th, from the convention of New-Jersey, and one of the 19th,
from Ephraim Anderson, and a petition from Levy Allen, were laid before
Congress, and read.
Resolved, That the letter from general Washington, received and read on
Saturday last, be referred to the board of war. e º
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee respecting
an exchange of prisoners; Whereupon,
#. That the commander in chief in each department be empowered
to negoitate an exchange of prisoners in the following manner: one continent-
al officer for one of the enemy of equal rank, either in the land or sea service,
soldier for soldier, sailor for sailor, and one citizen for another citizen:
That each state hath a right to make any exchange they think proper for
prisoners taken from them or by them. ſº
Resolved, That the several commanders in chief, in each department, be di-
rected to exchange any officer in the British service, now a prisoner in any of
these states, of or under the rank of colonel, for colonel Eathan Allen.
Besolved, That the persons taken prisoners with colonel Eathan Allen, be
put upon the same footing as those in the continental service, and exchanged
accordingly, as opportunity presents. º
The Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on
wº and means; and, after debate, the same was disagreed to.
he committee appointed to contract with Messrs. Hughes for one thousand
tons of cannon, for the use of the United States, reported, that they have exe-
cuted the contract, in which is a covenant to advance the said Messrs. Hughes
8000 dollars. •
Resolved, That an order for 8000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in fa-
vour of Daniel and Samuel Hughes; they to be accountable.
Resolved, That the board of treasury be directed to make immediate prepara-
tion for striking a farther sum of five millions of dollars in bills of credit.
Resolved, That captain Joy have liberty to employ eight of the prisoners in
the casting of cannon. % *
The board of treasury reported, that they have examined the account of the
committee of Lancaster for preserving the peace of the borough, keeping the
prisoners in order, and for the protection of the magazines, and find, that
there is due, for the pay of the guard, as follows:
39 days to captains, at 26 2-3 dollars per month, 84 60-90ths dollars:
76 days to lieutenants, at 18 dollars per month, 45 54-90ths dollars:
27 days to ensigns, at 13 1-3 dollars per month, 12 dollars:
143 days to serjeants, at 8 dollars per month, 38 12-90ths dollars.
421 days to corporals, fifes and drums, at 7 1-3 dollars per month, 102
60-90ths dollars:
1470 days to privates, at 62–3 dollars per month, 326 60-90ths dollars; the
whole amounting to 559 66-90ths dollars: *
Ordered, That the sathe be paid.
The Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into con-
sideration the articles of confederation; and, after some time, the president
resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the committee have made
sºme progress in the matter to them referred ; but, not having come to a con-
clusion, desire leave to sit again. N \
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the articles of
confederation.
**
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 421
*—
. The marine committee having recommended the following gentlemen for
officers of the Rawleigh, namely,
Peter Shores, John Wheelwright, Josiah Shackford, lieutenants; George
Jerry Osborne, captain of marines; Stephen Meads, first-lieutenant; Nathan-
iel Thwing, second-lieutenant:
Resolved, That they be accepted, and that commissions be granted them
accordingly.
- Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, July 23, 1776.
Sundry letters were received, and read, viz.
Two from general Washington of the 21st and 22d, with three papers en-
closed in the latter: -*
One of the 16th from governor Cooke:
Two from brigadier-general Mercer, of the 20th and 22d, with two papers
enclosed in the latter. -
Resolved, That the letters from general Washington and brigadier-general
Mercer, be referred to the board of war. .
Resolved, That the report of the committee on the cartel entered into be-
tween brigadier-general Arnold and captain Foster, and the resolutions passed
thereon, be published.
Resolved, That twenty dollars be advanced to Isaac Manes, a wounded sol-
dier of captain Cheeseman’s company, and that he be sent to the general hos-
ital.
p The board of war reported, that they have heard and considered the matters
alleged against the arrangement made in the regiment ordered to be raised under
colonel Dubois, and are of opinion, that no good purpose would be answered by
making any alteration therein; and although many worthy officers who served
in Canada are yet unemployed, the board can only lament that they are not in
the service, but hope something will, in future, turn up to enable Congress to
place them in stations equal to their merit:
The same being again read, was agreed to.
On the remainder of the report from the board of war, the Congress came to
the following resolutions:
That general Washington be informed that Congress have such an entire
confidence in his judgment, that they will give him no particular directions
about the disposition of the troops, but desire that he will dispose of those at
New-York, the flying-camp and Ticonderoga, as to him shall seem most condu-
cive to the public good :
That the Congress approve of general Washington’s having lent to the con-
. of New-York, the sum of money mentioned in his letter of the 19th
1I] Stant, :
That Monsieur St. Martin be appointed an engineer, with the rank of lieu-
tenant-colonel, and that he be directed to repair to New-York, and put himself
under the command of general Washington.
Resolved, That Dr. David Griffith beappointed to the stations of chaplain and
surgeon in the third Virginia battalion, he being a person of uncommon merit,
and there being very few surgeons of abilities who will enter the army in that
state; this ap ointment not to be drawn into precedent:
Thºt. Mr. Griffith draw pay in both these capacities, for the time he has
served in the regiment.
The Committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Dennis Leſſerty, for 26 weeks board, the sum of 52 dollars, and that the
same ºught to be paid to Timothy Matlack:
...William White, for boarding general Lee's guard, the sum of 40 60-90
422 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
To George Haas, for carrying money to New-York, the sum of 26 60-90
dollars :
To William Bradford, for the expense of a guard escorting money to New-
York, the sum of 88 57-90 dollars: t
To Rachel Evans, for boarding a sick soldier, the sum of 3 dollars:
To Robert Owen, junior, for provisions furnished several rifle companies,
64 86-90 dollars:
To Peter Grosels, for provisions to several rifle companies, the sum of 61.46-90
dollars, and that this ought to be paid to Robert Owen, jun.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That, in order to hasten the march of the troops, the several com-
mittees of Lancaster, York, Cumberland, Berks, and Northampton counties, in
Pennsylvania, be empowered to muster the troops that shall march from their
respective counties, and to draw for one month's pay on Mr. James Mease, and
that they certify the muster-rolls, and send to the pay-master the receipts for
the moneys that shall be so advanced.
Resolved, That a member be added to the board of treasury, in the room of
one absent: *
The member chosen, Mr. G. Clymer.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Congress resolved itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the articles of con-
federation; and, after some time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Har-
rison reported, that the committee have made farther progress in the matter
to them referred, but not having come to a conclusion, desired leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to morrow, again resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration the articles of
confederation. -
A petition from a number of inhabitants of Chester county, in Pennsylvania,
was presented to Congress and read, praying that John Griffith, a soldier in the
continental army, an experienced artificer in making and dressing fullers’
shears, may be released from the army, and ordered to return home to follow
his trade : *
Resolved, That the prayer of the petition be granted.
A petition from sundry Canadians was presented to Congress, and read :
Resolved, That it be referred to the Canada committee.
The marine committee having recommended Richard Palmes to be captain
of marines,
º That he be accepted, and that a commission be granted to him ac-
cordingly. - *
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, July 24, 1776.
A letter from lieutenant-colonel William Allen was laid before Congress,
and read, requesting leave to resign his commission :
Resolved, That leave be granted. tº
The marine committee having recommended Benjamin Thompson to be a
lieutenant of marines in captain Palmes’s company,
º That he be accepted, and that a commission be granted to him ac-
COI’Oil Il Q1W. ~&
Resºl à. That the committee appointed to revise the Journals, be empower-
ed to employ a proper person to make an index thereto.
The board of treasury reported, that the pay of brigadier-general Wooster,
commencing the 22d day of June, 1775, and calculated to theºd day of July,
1776, being thirteen months, at 125 dollars per month, amounts 1625 dollars;
but of which is to be deducted 173 dollars and 24-72 parts of a dollar, paid
him by Jºhn Winstow, esq. the pay-master; the residue due to the general is
|
1451 dollars and 48-72 parts of a dollar:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 423
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Resolved, That the sum of 100 dollars be advanced to captain Robert Johnson,
to be deducted out of his pay on the settlement of his account.
A petition from George Kills was presented to Congress and read:
S Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war.
The Congress took into consideration the report of the committee appointed
to prepare a resolution for confiscating the property of the subjects of Great-
Britain; Whereupon,
Resolved, That all the resolutions of this Congress, passed on the 23d day
of March last, and on the 3d day of April last, relating to ships, and other
vessels, their tackle, apparel and furniture, and all goods, wares and merchan-
dises, belonging to any inhabitant or inhabitants of Great-Britain, taken on
the high seas, or between high and low water mark, be extended to all ships
and other vessels, their tackle, apparel and furniture, and to all goods, wares
and merchandises, belonging to any subject or subjects of the king of Great-Bri-
tain, except the inhabitants of the Bermudas, and Providence or Bahama islands.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the regiment of rangers, now in the pay of the state of
South-Carolina, be placed upon continental establishment, and that it consist
of a lieutenant-colonel commandant, a major, 10 captains, 20 lieutenants, a
surgeon, a pay-master, 20 serjeants and 500 privates:
That the pay of the lieutenant-colonel commandant of rangers, be the same
as that of a colonel of foot; the major’s pay, that of a lieutenant-colonel ; the
captain’s, that of a major ; the lieutenant’s that of a captain; and the serjeant’s
that of an ensign of foot of the continental forces: That the surgeon be al-
lowed 33 dollars and 1-3d a month; the pay-master 26 dollars and 2-3ds; and
the privates 12# dollars per month, to provide themselves with horses,
guns, and provisions, for themselves and horses:
That the said rangers be liable to act on horseback, or foot, as occasion may
TeCIUllte : :*
* %. the like number of rangers be raised in the state of Georgia, and put
upon continental establishment:
That these be entitled to the same pay, and subject to the same duties, as
the Carolina rangers:
That the rangers, raised in the state of South-Carolina, be subject to the ar-
ticles formed by the convention of that state, for the government of the forces
raised therein.
Resolved, That colonel Knox's plan for raising another battalion of artillery,
be approved, and carried into execution, as soon as possible:
That general Washington be desired to recommend proper officers to com-
pose this corps.
Resolved, That general Washington be empowered to agree to the exchange
of governor Skene for Mr. James fovei :
That general Washington be authorized to take into continental pay, the
horse proposed by Mr. Lary, upon the terms by him mentioned.
9n motion, Resolved, That the report of the committee on gold and silver
coins be recommitted: sº
That Mr. Jefferson be added to that committee.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to take into consideration,
and report their opinion, on the proposal made by the president of South-
Carolina, and communicated to the house by a delegate of that state, respect-
ing general Lee :
The members chosen, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. Rutledge and Mr. Hall.
. The Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take
into their farther consideration, the articles of confederation; and, after some
424 Journals OF CONGRESS, 1776.
4-
time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the
committee have made farther progress in the matter to them referred ; but, not
having finished, desire leave to sit again:
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, again resolve itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into their farther consideration, the articles of
confederation. .*
A letter from general Washington, of the 23d, with sundry papers enclosed,
among which was a letter from §. Fraesh to lord Sterling; also,
A letter from the council of safety of North-Carolina, being received and
read,
Resolved, That the letter from Mr. Fraesh, to lord Sterling, be referred to
the committee appointed to contract for casting cannon;
That the general’s letter, with the other papers enclosed, be referred to the
board of war.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, July 25, 1776.
Resolved, That two months’ pay be advanced to Mons. Jaque Antoine de
Franchessin; he to be accountable.
A memorial of Samuel Holden Parsons, of Lyme, in Connecticut, was pre-
sented to Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of three :
The members chosen, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. Sherman.
A memorial from sundry officers who served in Canada, and are now unem-
ployed, was laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war.
Agreeable to order, the Congress resolved itself into a committee of the
whole, to take into their farther consideration, the articles of confederation;
after some time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported,
that the committee have made farther progress in the consideration of the arti-
cles of confederation; but, not having gone through, desired leave to sit again.
A letter of the 23d, from general W. enclosing a letter from go-
vernor Trumbull, to the general ; also,
A letter from governor Trumbull, of the 19th, with sundry depositions; and,
One of the 16th, from the committee of safety of New-Hampshire, were laid
before Congress, and read.
Resolved, That the letter from general Washington be referred to the board
of war.
The committee of claims reported, that there is due,
To Francis Gurney, for expenses of himself and others, escorting money to
Cambridge, in February last, the sum of 162 dollars and 84-90ths, over and
beside the monies advanced to him :
To Henry Wisner, esq. for the expenses of an express paid by him, the sum
of 20 dollars:
To Thomas Dewees, for boarding prisoners of state,437 dollars and 68-90ths:
To David Lennox, for expenses in #". after deserters, the sum of 31 dol-
lars and 86-90ths, to be paid to David Sproat:
To William Trickett, for stationary, the sum of 43 dollars and 76-90ths.
To Philip Nolan, for º: of general Lee’s guards, 4 dollars and 12-90ths:
To Elizabeth Slaving, for boarding and nursing a sick soldier, 4 dollars:
To J. Piling, for chairs for the war-office, the sum of 12 dollars:
To 'ºn Kerling, for provisions for general Lee's guards, 4 dollars and
54-90ths.
d . Isaac Cooper, for his attendance as a guard over powder, the sum of 11
Ol tal’S.
To Furman and Hunt, for necessaries furnished the prisoners at Trenton,
the sum of 47 dollars and 87-90ths:
JoURNALs of CONGRESS, 1776. 425
-
To John Bates, for camp-kettles, the sum of 98 dollars and 60-90ths:
To Elijah Bennet, post-rider, in the service of the United States, from Hart-
ford, in Connecticut, to various places, the sum of 1331 dollars and 66-90ths,
deducting 819 dollars and 86-90ths, which he has received from the colony of
Connecticut, the balance being 511 dollars and 70-90ths:
To Michael Philips, employed by brigadier-general Wooster in making
sundry repairs in the citadeſ and hospital in Montreal, carting, &c. 397 dollars
and 75-90ths, deducting the sum of 96 dollars and 7-90ths, which he received
from major Nicholson, the balance being 301 dollars and 68-90ths:
To James Budden, for the expense of a detachment of the troop of light-
horse escorting 300,000 dollars to New-York, the sum of 28 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a commit-
tee of the whole, to take into farther consideration, the articles of confedera-
tion.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, July 26, 1776.
Congress proceeded to the election of three commissioners to liquidate and
settle the accounts in the northern department; and, the ballots being taken,
Mr. James Milligan, Mr. John Carter, and Mr. Wells, were elected.
The committee on the treasury laid before Congress the account of Messrs.
Price and Haywood, with the balance due to them:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
. Resolved, That the substance of the conference between general Washing-
ton and adjutant-general Patterson, which was transmitted to Congress by ge-
neral Washington, be published.
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into far-
ther consideration the articles of confederation; and, after some time, the
º: resumed the chair, and Mr. Morton reported, that the committee
have made farther progress; but, not having concluded, desire leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, on §. next, resolve itself into a
committee of the whole, to take into farther consideration the articles of con-
federation.
Resalved, That an order for 2000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in favor
of Dr. W. Shippen; he io be accountable. w
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, July 29, 1776.
Sundry letters were laid before Congress, and read, viz.
Three from general Washington of the 23d, 35th and 37th;
tl One from general Schuyler, of the 17th, and one from general Gates, of
he 16th ;
One of the 25th, from J. Reed, adjutant-general; and one from brigadier-
general Mercer, of the 26th :
Qne of the 20th, from governor Trumbull:
One of the 25th, from the convention of New-Jersey, and one from the
council of Massachusetts-Bay:
One from Mons. Kirmovan, engineer, with a plan and draughts; and one, in
Latin, without signature:
tº : two petitions, one from George Nicholson, and one from James Li-
VIIlºSt0r1. * \
esolved, That general Washington be empowered to appoint another aid-
de-camp: t *
• Wol. I.
54
426 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
—a-
That the letters from general Washington, general Schuyler, and fººl
Gates, and the letter from Mons. Kirmovan, be referred to the board of war.
That the letter from the convention of New-Jersey be referred to the com-
mittee on the ways and means of augmenting the flying-camp; and, that Mr.
Clark be added to the said committee : |
That the letter from the adjutant-general be referred to the committee ap-
pointed to revise the articles of war : *
That the petition of James Nicholson be referred to the commissioners who
went to Canada:
That the petition from George Nicholson be referred to the committee on
Canada affairs: *
That the Latin letter be referred to the marine committee.
Resolved, That an order for 47 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in favor
of Josiah Fissenden, in full for service, expenses, and horse-hire.
. A letter, of the 20th, from the council of Virginia, was received and read.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Washington be empowered to order the regiment,
lately raised in Connecticut, under the command of colonel Ward, whereso-
ever he shall think the service requires it:
That Mons. Jean Artur de Virmonet, who appears to be a young gentleman
of merit, and has held a lieutenant’s commission in the service of France, be
appointed a brevet captain; and that Mons. Marie Fidel Dorre be sent as a
volunteer, to be employed by general Washington as he shall think proper :
That Mons. Christopher Pelliser, who has suffered considerably by warmly
espousing and taking an active part in the cause of America, in Canada, be ap-
pointed an engineer in the service of the United States, with the pay of 60 dol-
lars a month, and rank of lieutenant-colonel; and that he be directed to re-
pair to New York:
That the returns of colonel Elmore's regiment, made into the war-office by bri-
gadier-general Wooster, be transmitted to general Washington, with blank com-
missions for the officers: And that general Washington be directed to order
the said regiment to join him, and that he fill up the said commissions, with
the names of such officers as appear with their respective companies in the said
regiment. *
That John Brown be commissioned as lieutenant-colonel, and that Robert
Cockran, now acting as eldest captain in the said regiment, be commissioned
as major of the same, in the room of major J. Curtis, deceased.
Resolved, That a lieutenant-colonel be appointed for the second Pennsyl-
vania battalion, in the room of W. Allen, who has resigned :
The ballots being taken, Joseph Wood, esq. was elected.
Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
their consideration, the articles of confederation ; and, after some time, the
resident resumed the chair, and Mr. Morton : that the committee
#. made farther progress in the articles of confederation; but, not having
finished, desire leave to sit again.
A petition from Samuel Morris was presented to Congress, and read.
The committee on spies brought in a farther report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That the gaoler be directed to allow the prisoners, from North-
Carolina, the use and benefit of the yard, under the inspection of the guard,
provided it may be done with safety. e
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a commit-
... the whole, to take into their farther consideration the articles of confed-
€I’atlon.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 427
-E.---
TUESDAY, July 30, 1776.
A letter of the 28th, from brigadier-general Mercer, was laid before Con-
gress, and read, requesting six light-horse may be sent to him; Whereupon;
Resolved, That the president write to S. Morris, esq. captain of the light-
horse, and request him to send six of his company to brigadier-general Mercer.
Congress being informed, by a letter from the president of South-Carolina,
that the Cherokees have commenced hostilities against that state, and that he
has ordered a body of men to march against them, and has applied for assist-
ance to the neighboring states of North-Carolina and Virginia, tº
Resolved, That it be recommended to the states of Virginia, North-Carolina,
and Georgia, to afford all necessary assistance to the state of South-Carolina,
and co-operate, with that state, in prosecuting the war against the Indians
with the utmost vigor ; wº
That the president write to the governor and council of Virginia, the coun-
cil of safety of North-Carolina, and the president of Georgia, relative to the
above subjects. *
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to take into considera-
tion the state of North-Carolina, and report thereon to Congress:
The members chosen, Mr. Harrison, Mr. S. Adams, and Mr. Lynch.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee appointed to
enquire into the causes of the miscarriages in Canada, wherein they represent,
, as their opinion,
“That the short inlistments of the continental troops, in Canada, have been
one great cause of the miscarriages there, by rendering unstable the number of
men engaged in military enterprizes, by making them disorderly and disobe-
'dient to their officers, and by precipitating the commanding officers into mea-
sures, which their prudence might have postponed, could they have relied on
a longer continuance of their troops in service:
“That the want of hard money has been one other great source of the mis-
carriages in Canada, rendering the supplies of necessaries difficult and pre-
carious, the establishment of proper magazines absolutely impracticable, and
the pay of the troops of little use to them:
“That a still greater, and more fatal, source of misfortunes has been, the
prevalence of the small pox in that army; a great proportion whereof has
thereby been usually kept unfit for duty.”
With this Congress concurred.
On the farther consideration of the report, Congress came to the following
resolutions:
That colonel Bedel be tried by"a court-martial for leaving his command at
the Qedars, and for declining to return to the same with major Sherburne's
reinforcement: t
That major Butterfield be tried by a court-martial for surrendering to the
enemy the post at the Cedars, and also such other officers as were with him,
and consented to that surrender.
The said committee having farther reported, that, in the course of their en-
Quiries, they had reason to believe, that general Prescot's baggage was plun-
Jered by some licentious persons, in violation of the faith of the capitulation;
Whereupon,
£esºlved, That general Schuyler be desired to make strict enquiry into the
sºme, that the person guilty thereof may receive due punishment, and ample
indºmnification be made to general Prescot.
sº colonel Bedel, doctor Fay, and lieutenant House, be subjected to this
Resolved, That so much of the petitions of col. Easton and major Brown, as
§ *...*hat the charges against them, of having been concerned in plundering
e officers’ baggage, taken at Sorel, be submitted to a court of enquiry, is
#23 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
\
rº-
reasonable, and that general Schuyler be desired to order courts of enquiry on
them as soon as possible. º
Resolved, That general Montgomery’s promise to give to the troops con-
cerned in taking the vessels on the Sorel, “all the public stores, except am-
munition and provisions, on board thereof,” be confirmed ; and that general
Schuyler be directed to cause an enquiry to be made into the particulars and
value of the said public stores, (ammunition and provision excepted) and to
certify the same to Congress, with the names of the officers and soldiers enti-
tled thereto : w
That so much of major Brown’s petition, as prays, that an allowance be
made to him for extraordinary services, be referred to general Schuyler, who is
desired to certify to Congress, whether any and what reward may, with justice,
be demanded by him : º
That major Brown’s accounts be settled by the commissioners appointed to
adjust accounts in the northern department.
Resolved, That the committee be discharged from proceeding on so much
of the petition of colonel Easton, as prays a continuance of his rank and pay,
and so much of major Brown’s petition, as prays an examination into his rank
and pay, and that they be referred to the board of war.
That general Schuyler be desired to enquire into the conduct of colonel
Hazen, who is charged with having beaten and ill-treated Francois Cuilot de
la Rose, a continental captain of Canadian militia, and also to have ill-treated
Charles Robert de la Fontaine, a Canadian, at Chambly, and put such conduct
into a proper channel for trial and punishment: *
That it be recommended to general Schuyler, whenever the pay of officers or
soldiers is stopped, on account of any charge against them, to have such charge
determined by trial as speedily as possible, that there may be no delay of
iustice. -
J Resolved, That general Wooster acted properly in stopping the goods of
Bernard and Wadden, who were carrying the same, without permission, to the
Indians in the upper country. -
Resolved, That the committee have leave to sit again, and that they be in-
structed to enquire in what manner the goods of Bernard and Wadden were
disposed of.
}. That the secret committee be directed to supply the three rifle
companies, now in town from Lancaster, with 11 lb. of powder and 44 lb of lead.
Resolved, That 500,000 dollars be sent to the pay-master-general.
That 60,000 dollars be sent to R. Dallam, deputy pay-master-general, for
the use of the flying-camp. º ſº
Congress proceeded to the election of a clerk, or assistant, to the auditor-
general; when, sº
William Govet was elected.
Resolved, That William Govet be allowed the salary of 533 dollars and 1-3d
per annum.
Resolved, That all public claims and accounts, that are, at this time, unset-
tled, be referred to the committee of treasury, and that the committee of
claims be discharged from proceeding further upon any claims or accounts ;
sand that all the books and papers in the hands of the committee of claims, be
delivered to the auditor-general.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon, , . # *
Resolved, That the resolution of the 17th of January last, allowing to offi-
gers 1 dollar and 1-8d for every man they inlist, be extended to officers who inlist
for the new army for three years; . . ~ *
That gen. Mercer’s letter, relative to the building of boats, be referred to
general ashington, with direction to give such orders therein as he shall judge
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 429
necessary; and that he be desired to avail himself of the shipwrights and other
artifices now in the flying-camp : º
That general Mercer be allowed a secretary while he has a separate com-
mand:
That a number of 4 and 6 pounders, not exceeding ten of each, be immediate-
ly sent to general Mercer, to be mounted on the works he is now erecting;
and that the council of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to forward them
to Amboy, in New-Jersey: .
That Congress approve of general Schuyler's intention to publish sugh
parts of the treaty with the Six Nations, as may have a tendency to dispel the
apprehensions of the frontier inhabitants:
That the commissioners for Indian affairs, in the middle department, be in-
structed to thank Cayashuta, in the name of the great conncil-fire, for his
friendly conduct at Niagara, communicated by Peter Richman (whose Indian
name is Queda) and to inform him, that it would be very agreeable to Congress
to receive a visit from him.
' A letter of the 29th, from general Washington, and one from the council of
Massachusetts-Bay; also a letter of the 23d from governor Cooke, with sun-
dry papers enclosed, being received, were read :
Tresolved, That the two first be referred to the board of war.
The board of war laid before Congress a letter received from general Wash-
ington :
Ordered, That they return an answer.
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into considera-
tion the articles of confederation; and, after some time, the president resumed
the chair, and Mr. Morton reported, that the committee, not having yet finish-
ed, desired leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a coin-
mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the articles of confederation.
A. Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, July s1, 1776.
Resolved, That 20,000 dollars be advanced to Mr. Mease ; he to be ac-
countable:
That Mr. J. Mease be directed to pay John Pollock 2666 dollars and two-
thirds, and that the same be charged to the account of the committee of in-
spection of Cumberland, who are to be accountable.
Resolved, That the medical committee be directed to provide, and send
forward, such a quantity of medicines as may be necessary for the hospital in
the northern army : +
That the said committee be directed to procure and forward such a quantity
of medicines as may be necessary for the hospital in the southern department.
The board of war wbrought in a report, which was taken into consideration :
Whereupon,
Resºlved, That five tons of musket-powder be sent immediately to general
Washington at New-York: -
That the commissary-general be directed to furnish with rations, and the
deputy pay master general, in the state of Massachusetts-Bay, be ordered to
pay, any militia, which the general assembly of that state shall think proper to
call in, to replace the continental troops ordered from thence. &
The committee appointed to enquire into the causes of the miscarriages in
Canada, brought in a farther report, which was taken into consideration:
Whereupon, • , t
Resolved, That the conduct of colonel Nicholson, who commanded the post
at Point-Levi, and who, after the determination of the council of war to retire
frºm Quebec, is said to have deserted his said command, and left the party to
shift for themselves, be submitted to a court of enquiry :
*
zº,
480 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
That the committee be discharged from so much of colonel Easton’s peti-
tion, as prays a settlement of his accounts, and that the same be referred to the
board of treasury. y
The committee appointed to take into consideration the state of North-Caro-
lina, brought in their report, which was taken into consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That four tons of gun-powder and six four pounders, or such
others as can be procured, of the weight proper for field-pieces, be immediate-
ly sent to North-Carolina:
That the delegates of that state employ some proper person, as a commissary,
to purchase, in this city, or the neighborhood thereof, clothing for the troops
raised in that state for the continental service :
That the three independent companies of rangers, in that state, be taken
upon the continental pay and cº, and that their pay and appoint-
ment be as already resolved by the convention of that state, and that they rank
as the rangers raised in South-Carolina and Georgia.
}. That an order for 266 2-3 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in
favor of colonel James Easton; to be accounted for by him on the final settle-
ment of his accounts:
That two months’ pay be advanced to Monsieur St. Martin; he to be ac-
countable.
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consi-
deration the articles of confederation ; and, after some time, the president
resumed the chair, and Mr. Morton reported, that the committee, not having
come to a conclusion, desired leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the articles of confederation.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, August 1, 1776.
A letter of the 30th of July from brigadier-general Mercer, and one of the
same date, from brigadier-general Roberdeau, and sundry others, were laid be-
fore Congress, and read :
Resolved, That the two first be referred to the board of war.
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consi-
deration the articles of confederation ; and, after some time, the president
resumed the chair, and Mr. Morton reported, that the committee, have made
farther progress, but, not having come to a conclusion, desired leave to sit
à ºð IIl.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a commit-
tee of the whole, to take into consideration the articles of confederation.
A letter of the 30th of July, from general Washington, with sundry papers
enclosed; also, one from general Schuyler, of the 20th, and one from colonel
Bubois, of the 17th, were laid before Congress, and read : *
Resolved, That they be referred to the board of war.
The board of war reported the draught of a letter to general Washington, in
answer to his directed to them; and the same being agreed to,
Ordered, That it be transcribed, signed by the president, and forwarded.
The said board brought in a report, which was taken into consideration ;
Whereupon,
IResolved, That colonel John Brown be allowed the rank and pay of lieute-
* in the continental army, from the 20th day of November last to
this time:
That James Easton is entitled to the rank of a colonel in the continental ar-
my, from the first day of July, 1775, and to the pay of a colonel from that day
until he shall be discharged, which ought to be done as soon as a court of en-
quiry shall report in his favor, or a court-martial shall determine upon his con-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 431
duct, and their sentence is carried into execution ; there being no vacancy to
which he can be appointed. But, should he be honorably acquitted, his º:
services will recommend him to the confidence of Congress for future employ-
ment.
Resolved, That an order for 2,666-2-3 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in
favor of Ludwick Karcher, for victualling the militia passing through Philadel-
phia to the flying-camp; he to be accountable.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, August 2, 1776.
Resolved, That two months’ pay be advanced to Monsieur Pellisier; he to
be accountable.
Resolved, That the secret committee and marine committee be discharged
from fitting out vessels with cargoes to Bermudas. *
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration ;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That 200,000 dollars be sent to Jonathan Trumbull, esq. deputy
pay-master general in the northern department: *
That gen. Washington be instructed to employ, in the service of the states,
as many of the Stockbridge Indians as he shall judge proper :
That one hundred old arms, belonging to Congress, be delivered to the coun-
cil of safety of Pennsylvania, to be repaired at the continental expense, and
put into the hands of the soldiers destined for the flying-camp; the said coun-
cil to be accountable :
That the pay-master general, and the several deputy pay-masters general,
be directed to make weekly returns to Congress of the state of the military
chests under their direction :
That Jonathan Trumbull, esq. deputy pay-master general in the northern ar-
my, be directed to transmit to Congress, as soon as possible, an account of all
: moneys which have passed through his hands since his appointment to that
Off!Ce :
That the commissary-general, and deputy commissaries in the several depart-
ments, be directed to transmit to Congress, weekly, an account of the sums of
money they may respectively receive from the pay-masters:
That the quarter-master general, and deputy quarter-masters general, in the
several departments, be directed to transmit, weekly, to Congress, an account of
the moneys they respectively receive from the pay-master general, or deputy
pay-master general :
hat the commissary-general, quarter-master general, deputy commissaries,
and deputy quarter-masters general, be directed to make monthl y returns, at
least, of the stores under their direction, and the distribution of them :
That the commanding officer in each department be directed to make returns,
once a month, to Congress, of the draughts made by him upon the pay-master,
in his department. <
Resolved, That Mr. Walton be appointed a member of the marine commit-
tee, in the room of Mr. Gwinnett, who is absent.
Resolved. That 100 dollars be advanced to Thaddeus Sturges, to be account-
ed for by him, and deducted out of his pay on the settlement of his accounts;
that the bºard of treasury be discharged from proceeding on his accounts, and
that they be referred for settlement to the commissioners appointed to settle
the accounts in the northern départment.
..The marine committee, to whom it was referred to enquire into the conduct
of commodore Hopkins, brought in their report, which was read:
Ørdered. To lie on the table, to be taken into consideration on Monday next.
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into conside-
Nation the articles of confederation; and, after some time, the president resum-
432 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
ed the chair, and Mr. Morton reported, that the committee, not having finished,
desired leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into consideration the articles of confederation.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Benjamin Thompson, for 131 days service, viz. from the 1st of December
to the last of May inclusive, as clerk of the hospital at Montreal, at the rate of
2-3ds of a dollar per day, 122 dollars: ,”
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Adjourned to nine o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, August 3, 1776.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Thomas Whitbeck, for carrying money from Philadelphia to Ticonde-
foga, in October last, the sum of 75 1-4 dollars:
To Samuel Johnson, for 209 meals of victuals, 20 dollars and 81-90ths.
To George Hoffnagle, 1 dollar and 45-90ths.
To Michael Staddleman, for 708 meals of victuals, 70 dollars and 72-90ths.
To Richard Chiney, for 540 meals furnished the militia on their march to
New-Jersey, 54 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid. *
The committee on the miscarriages in Canada, brought in a farther report,
which was read: J
Ordered, To lie on the table, to be taken into consideration on Monday next.
A letter from Neil M'Clean was laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, August 5, 1776.
Two letters from general Washington, of the 31st of July and 2d of August;
one from the council of Virginia, of the 27th of July, with copies of sundry
letters from North-Carolina and South-Carolina, enclosed; one from E. An-
derson, of the 31st of July; and sundry resolutions, passed by the convention
of Pennsylvania, were laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That they be referred to the board of war.
The boah of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration:
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the commanders of all ships of war and armed vessels in
the service of these states, or any of them, and all letters of marque and pri-
vateers, be permitted to inlist into service on board the said ships and vessels,
any seamen who may be taken on board any of the ships or vessels of our ene-
mies, and that no such seamen be entitled to receive the wages due to them out
of the said prizes, but such as will so inlist, and that all other seamen, so taken,
be held as prisoners of war, and exchanged for others taken by the enemy,
whether on board of vessels of war or merchantmen, as there may be oppor-
tunity:
º lieutenant-colonel Rufus Putnam be appointed an engineer, with the
rank of colonel, and pay of 60 dollars a month.
A petition from Esek Hopkins, commander in chief of the continental fleet,
was presented to Congress, and read; setting foºth, that “he has been inform-
ed that certain complaints, interrogatories and report, charging him with sundry
crimes and misdemeanors, had been exhibited to the honorable Congress; the
purport of which complaints, &c, he is ignorant of; and praying that he may
be furnished with copies thereof, and of all other proceedings against him,
which are now before this honorable body; and that time may be allowed him
A
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 433
...sº
to prepare for, and a day assigned for, his being heard before Congress in his
own defence.”
Resolved, That the prayer of the petition be granted, and that Friday next
be appointed for hearing commodore Hopkins.
Resolved, That the marine committee be directed to order the ships and
armed vessels, belonging to the continent, out on such cruizes as they shall
think proper.
Resolved, That Monday next be assigned for hearing and determining the
appeal against the verdict and sentence passed on the schooner Thistle.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to the Delaware
battalion, as many of the arms, lately imported, as will be necessary to arm
them completely :
That they deliver to the council of safety of Delaware government, 193 of
the said arms, in lieu of so many had from them;
That the remainder of the said arms be delivered to the council of safety of
Pennsylvania, who are to be accountable.
Resolved, That the Delaware battalion, when armed, be ordered to New-
Jersey, subject to the farther orders and directions of the general.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To J. Symes, a prisoner of the royal Highland emigrants, 28 dollars, for 14
weeks’ allowance, from the 24th of April to the 30th of July.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Ordered, That the board of war furnish the committee of treasury with the
names of the British officers and other prisoners, who are entitled to the allow-
ance made by Congress of two dollars a week, with the times of their capti-
vity, and the places where they are quartered.
Resolved, That the pay of an assistant clerk to the board of war, be 266 2-3
dollars a year.
Resolved, That an order for 1000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in favor
of Francis Lewis, esq. and that the same be charged to the account of the pay-
º: general; it being for so much received by him, by the order of º
€WIS, .
Congress took into consideration the report on Messrs. Price and Haywood's
accounts; and, after some debate,
Resolved, That the said accounts be re-committed, and that the commissioners
to Canada be desired to attend the board of treasury at the examination of the
said accounts.
Resolved, That an order for 53 dollars and 1-3d, be drawn on the treasurers,
in favor of Monsieur Artur Vermonit, it being two months' advance, for which
he is to be accountable.
A petition from Lewis De Linkensdorff, was presented to Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the causes
of the miscarriages in Canada; and, after debate,
Resolved, That it be re-committed.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. $.
TUESDAY, August 6, 1776.
A lettº, of the 5th, from general Washington, enclosing copies of letters
between him and general Howe, respecting the exchange of prisoners, and sun-
dry other letters and papers; also, one from brigadier-general Mercer, of the
4th, were laid before Congress, and read:
£esolved, That they be referred to the board of war.
Fesolved, That the medical committee be directed to supply the director-
general of the hospital with such medicines as he mav want.
VoI. I. 55 *.
434 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
-*-
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to the delegates
of North-Carolina, half a ton of powder, for the use of the frontier inhabitants
of that state:
Resolved, That general Schuyler by directed to apply to general Burgoyne,
and propose a general exchange of prisoners on the terms agreed to by Con-
gress; and, particularly, the delivering brigadier-general Prescot, in posses-
sion of the United States, in lieu of brigadier-general Thompson, in the pos-
session of the enemy.
A letter from the convention of New-Jersey to their delegates, was laid be-
fore Congress and read; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the convention of the state of New-Jersey be requested to
make such provision for keeping open the communication between that state
and New-York, by way of the ferties over the rivers Passaick and Hackin.
sack, as to them shall appear to be most effectual, and that Congress will re-
imburse the expenses of such service to the state of New Jersey: 2
That it be recommended, in the most earnest manner, to the convention of
New-Jersey, to order their militia immediately to march and join brigadier-
general Mercer.
Resolved, That the commissioners for Indian affairs in the middle depart-
ment, be directed to enquire, and inform Congress, whether it will be most for
the public good, that the troops raised, and to be raised, for the garrisons on
the Ohio and its waters, should be supplied with provisions by contract or by
a commissary : That if a commissary be thought necessary, they recommend
some proper person for that office to Congress, in the mean time, take such
measures as they think best for victualling the said troops.
Resolved, That a member be added to the committee appointed to enquire
into, and remedy, the defects of the powder made at the mills:
The member chosen, Mr. Rush.
Mr. G. Clymer, one of the joint treasurers, being appointed a delegate to
Congress, by the convention of Pennsylvania,
Resolved, That, for the future, there be only one continental treasurer.
Resolved, That an additional sum of 300 dollars be given to each of the con-
tinental treasurers, on account of their extraordinary trouble, and faithful ser-
vice, during the last year.
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consid-
eration the articles of confederation; and, after some time, the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr. Morton reported, that the committee, not having come
to a conclusion, desired leave to sit again.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the council of safety of Pennsylvania,
to stop Mr. Wilmore from proceeding to New-York. -
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a commit-
tee of the whole, to take into consideration, the articles of confederation.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. *
WEDNESDAY, August 7, 1776.
Resolved, That an order for 5000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in fa-
vor of the committee of Lancaster, for the purpose of carrying into execution
the resolution of Congress, respecting the prisoners, the said committee to be
accountable : *
That an order for 30,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer in favor of
James Mease, for the use of the militia marching to New-Jersey ; he to be
accountable.
Resolved, That James Brisben, who is employed in the post-office, be ex-
cused from military duty.
A letter from captain N. Biddle to the marine committee, was laid before
Congress, and read; Whereupon,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 435
Resolved, That general Washington be directed to propose an exchange of
lieutenant Josiah, for a lieutenant of the navy of Great-Britain, and that the
general remonstrate to lord Howe on the cruel treatment lieutenant Josiah has
met with, of which the Congress have received undoubted information.
Resolved, That Dr. Rush be added to the medical committee.
A memorial from George Measam was presented to Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war.
The committee appointed to revise the articles of war, brought in their report:
The board of war reported, that there is due,
To Messrs. Giasson, Hertel and de la Magdelaine, Canadian prisoners, at
Bristol, for their board and lodging, from the 15th of November to the 31st Ju-
ly last, being 37 weeks, each at 2 dollars a week, 222 dollars, and that the
same ought to be paid to John Green, their assignee:
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consid-
eration, the articles of confederation; and, after some time, the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr. Morton reported, that the committee, not having yet
finished, desired leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a commit-
tee of the whole, to take into consideration the articles of confederation.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
• THURSDAY, August 8, 1776.
Resolved, That the sum of 700 dollars be paid to Jonathan Meredith, in full
of Ephraim Blaine’s draught in his favor, for shoes purchased from him for the
use of the continental army; and that the same be charged to the account of .
the said Ephraim Blaine. º
Resolved, That the sum of 60,000 dollars be advanced to the delegates of
New-Hampshire, for the use of that state, which is to be accountable.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the council of safety of Pennsylvania,
to take proper measures for providing quarters for the troops passing through
Philadelphia to the flying-camp, during their continuance in this city.
Resolved, That the colonel, or commanding officer of the Delaware battalion,
and the colonels, or commanding officers of the several battalions of militia,
now in Philadelphia, be ordered instantly to march to Amboy in New-Jersey;
and that such of the militia as want arms, be left under a proper officer, till
they can be provided therewith, and then marched without any farther delay:
That the board of war be directed to see this resolution carried into imme-
diate execution.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to take into immediate consi-
deration, the state of the army in the northern department, and our naval force
on the lakes; and that Mr. Chase be directed to attend the said board, and
give them all the information in his power; and that Mr. Williams be de-
sired to furnish the said board with an extract of the letter he has received
from gºvernor Trumbull, relative to the said army and naval force; and that
the said board report thereon as soon as possible.
Two letters from general Washington, with sundry papers enclosed; one
from general Schuyler, dated at the German-Flats, August the 1st; one of the
the 39th of July, from general Gates, with copies of two letters enclosed, were
received and read. *
Resolved, T hat a letter be written to general Lee, to inform him of the in-
telligence received, that the troops from Charleston are arrived at New-York;
and to direct him, in case the British troops have left the southern colonies,
to repair, with all possible expedition, to Philadelphia, and there wait the
orders of Congress.
. Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for electing four major-generals and
six brigadier-generals.
436 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
=-
Resolved, That the post-riders be exempted from military duty.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to supply colonel Galbreath
with 9 lbs. of powder, and 27 lbs. of lead, for the use of three companies of
his battalion.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To George Kennedy, for three rifles purchased in Frederick county, Vir-
ginia, for the use of captain Morgan’s company of riflemen, and to be chargcd
to the said company, the sum of 40 dollars: 4.
To William Webb, for services in, and articles purchased for, the use of
the treasury office, 137 54-90 dollars; to be charged to the account of contin-
gent expenses: *
To captain Thomas Hazlet, for subsistence of 13 men of his company, on
their march from Chester county to New-Jersey, 9 82-90 dollars:
To captain Benjamin Wallace, for subsistence of his company, on their
march from Chester county to New-Jersey, 32 20-90 dollars:
To captain Matthew Boyd for subsistence of 53 men of his company, in
colonel Moore’s battalion, on their march from Chester county, to New-Jersey,
27 42-90 dollars :
To Tobias Rudolph, for the hire of two horses and a chair, by captain Alex-
ander Graydon, to conduct money to Ticonderoga, and for one of the said
horses which was lost at Albany, 125 54-90 dollars:
-- To Mr. Smith, at the city-tavern, for the expense of a guard at his house,
over prisoners of war brought from Burlington, 1627-90 dollars:
To John Tomkins, for the subsistence of captains Crowlle’s, Heister’s, and
º companies of militia, on their march to New-Jersey, 21 36-90
Oila.I’S :
To captain James M'Candless, for subsistence and ferriages of his compa-
ny of the 4th battalion of York county militia, on their march to New-Jersey,
41 78-90 dollars :
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That an order for 2000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer in fa-
vor of the delegates of Georgia, for the use of the continental forces in that
state; the said delegates to be accountable. wº -
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consi-
deration the articles of confederation; and, after some time, the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr. Morton reported, that the committee have made far-
ther progress in the matter referred to them ; but not having come to a con-
clusion, desired leave to sit again. w -
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a commit-
tee of the whole, to take into consideration the articles of confederation.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, August 9, 1776.
Congress having proceeded to the election of a regimental pay-master for
the Delaware battalion,
John Yates, esq. was elected.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed, to devise a plan for en-
couraging the Hessians, and other foreigners, employed by the king of Great-
Britain, and sent to America for the purpose of subjugating these states, to
quit that iniquitous service:
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Stockton. }
The board of war brought in a report, which was read: ºr
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to the order of
the board of war, such articles in their possession, belonging to the continent,
as, in the opinion of the said board of war, are necessary for the Delaware
battalion :
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 437
TThat the said committee be directed to send to gen. Washington 30,000 flints.
A petition from William Bell & Co. was presented to Congress, and read :
Resolved, That it be referred to the committee on governor Trumbull’s letter.
Resolved, That Mr. Mease be directed to supply the captains, now in
Philadelphia, belonging to colonel Hand's battalion, with such sums of money
as will be sufficient to pay the bounty voted to non-commissioned officers and
soldiers, who inlist for three years. º
The delegates of Pennsylvania and Maryland, to whom the petition of Lewis
de Linkensdorf was referred, brought in their report, which was taken into con-
sideration; Whereupon, *.
Resolved, That Lewis de Linkensdorf be appointed adjutant to the German
battalion, ordered to be raised for the continental service.
Agreeable to the order of the day, Congress proceeded to the election of
four major-generals and six brigadier-generals, when the following gentlemen
were chosen, viz.
William Heath, Joseph Spencer, John Sullivan, and Nathaniel Green, esqrs.
major-generals; James Read, John Nixon, Arthur St. Clair, Alexander M.
Dougal, Samuel Holden Parsons, and James Clinton, esqrs. brigadier-generals.
Resolved, That the hearing commodore Hopkins be postponed to Monday
next, at 11 o’clock, and that captain Jones be directed to attend at the same
time.
Resolved, That 10,000 dollars be advanced to colonel John Hazlet for the
use of his battalion, he to be accountable. e §
Resolved, That William Brown, master-carpenter, who is come from the
camp on furlow, be ordered not to return, his service being necessary at the yard.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, August 10, 1776.
Resolved, That Isaac Cooper, ship-joiner, be ordered not to go to New-Jersey;
his service being wanted :
That William Whiting, a wounded soldier, be sent to the hospital of Penn-
sylvania, and supported at the expense of the United States; and, in case he
dies, that the expenses of his funeral be paid by the United States.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Jeremiah Dougan, in part payment of his account against the continent,
319 dollars and 60-90ths, with which he is to be charged :
To Daniel Smith, for the weekly allowance of the following prisoners of
War, viz. James Hughes, town-major of Montreal, and captain Duncan Camp-
bell, from the 19th January, to the 18th July last, 24 weeks, and 6 days, at 2
dollars a week, 99 dollars and 38-90ths:
Major Dunbar, major Stopford, lieut. Harrison, lieut. Shuttleworth, lieut.
MºDonald, and capt. Algeo, from the 26th April to 12th July last, 11 weeks
each, at 2 dollars a week, 132 dollars:
..To colonel Jacob Stroud, for expenses of wagon-hire, in conducting Cana-
dian prisoners, and part of the 26th regiment, from Walpeck, in New-Jersey,
to Reading and Bristol in Pennsylvania, 319 dollars and 54-90ths, out of
which sºlars 12-90ths, is a charge against the British troops, and 135 dol-
lars and 42-90ths, for the expense of the Canadians:
To Jºhn Bates, for 140 camp-kettles delivered to colonel Matlack, 186 dol-
lars and 60-90ths :
To Thomas Nevill for the materials and making travelling carriages, for the
cannon sent to North-Carolina, 257 dollars and 25-90ths:
To William M'Gill, for expenses of the first Pennsylvania battalion on their
march to Canada, which is to be charged to J. Shallus, quarter-master of the
said battalion, 14 dollars 45-90ths:
To Joseph Haight, for the allowance to captain Francis Stuart and John
438 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Leslie, of the 26th regiment, from the 26th April to 11th July, and to Dr.
Huddleston, of the 7th regiment, from the 26th April to the 1st July, as
prisoners of war, 63 dollars:
To captain Joseph Spur, of colonel Moore’s battalion, for the subsistence of
his company of 28 men, on their march from Chester county to New-Jersey,
the sum of 25 dollars and 18-90ths: ;
To lieutenant-colonel Joseph Park, for the subsistence of 6 men of colonel
. battalion, on their march from Chester county to New-Jersey, 16
Ollal’S 3
To Michael Gratz, for Indian goods provided by him in May and June last,
and delivered to the commissioners for Indian affairs in the northern depart-
ment, 653 dollars and 87-90ths :
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The committee farther reported, that they have had under consideration, the
accounts of Messrs. Price and Haywood, which were re-committed to them,
and having re-examined the same, find a balance due to them, amounting to
59,962 dollars and 53-90ths, which they are of opinion ought to be paid in
silver and gold :
Ordered, That the said sums be paid accordingly.
Resolved, That the board of treasury be directed to devise ways and means
for paying Messrs. Price and Haywood, and report to Congress.
Resolved, That an order for 3000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers in ſa-
vour of the delegates of Delaware government, for the purpose of paying one
month’s advance to the battalion of militia marching from that government to
the flying-camp.
ſº 85 we e o - e ſº
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration:
Whereupon,
Resolved, That commissions be made out, and sent to general Washington,
to be delivered to the several officers recommended in the list exhibited by the
said board, to fill the vacancies mentioned in the said list, excepting those per-
sons recommended to fill the vacancies occasioned by officers being in captivity,
which ought not to be filled, but to be keft open, until those officers shall be re-
deemed, and excepting the case of lieut. Col. Tyler, who is to have a commis-
ision for colonel of the regiment lately commanded by col. Parsons, promoted;
and that lieut. col. Durkee have a commission of colonel of the 20th regiment,
and that major Prentice be made lieutenant-colonel of the regiment, in which
he is now major; and major Knolton lieutenant-colonel of the 20th regiment.
The marine committee brought in a report, which was read:
"Ordered, To lie on the table.
The committee on the causes of the miscarriages in Canada, brought in a
farther report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table, to be taken into consideration on Tuesday next.
Resolved, That John Hughes be supplied with necessary clothes, by the ma-
nagers of the Pennsylvania hospital, at the expense of the United States.
itesolved, That William Tudor, judge-advocate general, have the rank of
lieutenant-colonel in the army of the United States; and that he be ordered
immediately to repair to the discharge of his duty at New-York. h
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to colonel J.
Wilson, for the use of three companies of his battalion, now in Philadelphia,
11 lb. of powder, and 44 lb. of lead : \
That the said committee be directed to deliver to the order of the marine
committee, such quantity of arms and ammunition, as may be necessary for
the use of the continental frigates.
The committee on Canadian petitioners, reported,
That the rev. Mr. Louis Lotbiniere was, on the 26th January last, appointed,
by general Arnold, chaplain to the regiment under the command of col. James
Livingston, and acted in that capacity, until the retreat of the army from Ca-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 439
nada, and was promised by gen. Arnold, the pay of 59 14 10 per month, includ-
ing rations; and that there is now a balance of 124 dollars 84-90ths due, and
that the same ought to be paid to him, and he continued a chaplain in the pay
of the United States:
That Jean Fiscul ought to receive nine months’ pay as a private, and a pre-
sent of 20 dollars for particular service, the whole amounting to 80 dollars, and
that he be permitted to inlist in the artillery at New-York:
That Pierre du Calvert ought to receive 106 dollars and 2-3ds, for 8 months’
pay as an ensign, and a commission as a brevet lieutenant. *
#. Alexander du Clos ought to receive 33 dollars and 1-3d, for 5 months’
pay as a private, and be discharged, with permission to inlist again in the ser-
vice, at his election :
That Jean Baptist du Vidal ought to receive 56 dollars for seven months’
pay as a serjeant, and be discharged, or continued in the service, at his election:
That Louis Russe ought to receive 32 dollars for his services as a nurse and
attendant on the sick, and a present of 40 dollars on account of his humanity
to them :
That Juet a Voir ought to receive a present of 10 dollars, and be discharged,
or continued in service at his election :
That La Junesse ought to receive a present of 40 dollars, and be discharged:
That John Hamptreneck ought to receive 186 dollars and 2-3ds, as deput
commissary, from the 15th of September to the 5th of February, and 164 dol-
lars for his pay as a captain from the 5th of February to this day, being 6
months and 5 days; the whole amounting to 350 dollars and 60-90ths.
That John Diamond and Walker Moody ought to receive a present of 40
dollars each :
That Andrew Pepin ought to receive 33 dollars and 39-90ths, for 5 months’
lay as a private, for his services as a volunteer, and be continued in pay as a
eutenant:
That all persons who have acted as volunteers in Canada, and retreated with
the army, be referred to general Schuyler; and that he be directed to enquire
into their service and characters, and to order them such rewards and wages
as shall appear to have been merited :
That 300 dollars be advanced to colonel James Livingston, and his general
account against Congress referred to the inspection and determination of ge-
neral Schuyler.
Resolved, That the said report be agreed to.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, August 12, 1776.
A letter from general Washington of the 8th, with sundry papers enclosed,
and one from general Mercer, with one enclosed to him from colonel Diekin-
S0n, Were read :
Jºesolved, That the letter from general Washington, with the pa
3. 2 a perS en-
closed, be referred to the board of war: & pap
That the letter from brigadier-general Mercer, with the enclosed letter from
º º be communicated to the convention of Pennsylvania.
**City resolutions, passed by the conventi f New- y- g
Congress, and read. p y the Convention of New-York, were laid before
A letter from a gentleman at e - tº *-* * * * e
23d, was also tº: eman at Cape-Francois, in Hispaniola, dated J uly the
£esolved, That it be referred to the secret committee.
That the delegates-of North-Carolina be en
e e .N.'s powered to send by water, at
the risk of the continent, the military stores necessary for that º:
On application of one of the parties,
440 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
-ºil–
Resolved, That the hearing the appeal against the sentence passed on the
schooner Thistle, be postponed to Monday, the 26th instant.
The council of safety of Pennsylvania having recommended Philip Schrauder,
as a second lieutenant of the fifth company of Germans, to be raised in that state,
Resolved, That he be accepted, and that a commission be granted to him ac-
cordingly.
A letter of the 3d, from the council of Virginia, and one of the same date,
from brigadier-general Lewis, were read.
Agreeable to the order of the day, commodore Hopkins attended, and was
admitted ; when the examination, taken before the marine committee, and the
report of the said committee in consequence thereof, were read to him; and the
commodore being heard in his own defence, and having delivered in some fur-
ther answers to the questions asked him by the marine committee, and two
witnesses being, at his request, introduced and examined, he withdrew.
Congress then took into consideration the instructions given to commodore
Hopkins, his examination and answers to the marine committee, and the report
of the marine committee thereupon ; also, the farther defence by him made, and
the testimony of the witnesses ; and, after some debate, the farther considera-
tion thereof was postponed.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, August 13, 1776.
Resolved, That the 8th Virginia battalion be taken into pay from the 27th
day of May last, and the 7th from the 17th day of June last.
The marine committee having recommended William Barnes for first lieu-
tenant on board one of the frigates built at Philadelphia ; Thomas Vaughan, se-
cond mate of the ship Alfred, to be third lieutenant of the Washington frigate,
commanded by Thomas Reed, esq. and Elisha Hinman, to the command of the
Cabot,
Resolved, That they be accepted, and that commissions be granted to them
accordingly; and that captain Saltonstal be ordered to discharge Mr. Vaughan,
that he may repair to the command to which he is now appointed.
Colonel Mercer, of the 3d Virginia battalion, being promoted to the rank of
brigadier-general, and William Christian, who was appointed colonel of the
first battalion, having declined to accept his commission, and colonel William
Peachy, of the fifth battalion, having resigned, Congress proceeded to the elec-
tion ofcfficers to fill the vacancies occasioned thereby, and the ballots being taken,
Charles Scott, George Weeden, and Isaac Reade, esquires, were elected colonels;
Alexander Spotswood, Thomas Marshall, and Robert Lawson, esqrs. lieute-
nant-colonels; and James Junis and John Green, esqrs. majors.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Courad Alster, for 214 meals supplied to the militia on their march to
New-Jersey, the sum of 21 36-90 dollars:
To James Davis, for 70 meals supplied captain Clark’s company of militia, on
their march to New-Jersey, 79-90 dollars:
To major Blackden, for the hire of a sleigh and two horses from Albany to
Quebec, cash expended going express from general Arnold to Sorel, and for a
horse, bridle, and saddle, lost at Dechambeau, in the service of the colonies,
153 dollars :
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
The board of treasury to whom it was referred to devise ways and means for
paying Messrs. Price and Heywood, brought in their report; "Whereupon,
Resolved, That an order be sent to general Schuyler and general Gates, to
pay all the specie that they may have in their hands, belonging to the United
States, to Messrs. Price & Heywood, in part of the balance due to them from
the said states, and transmit an account thereof to Congress :
\
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. ' 441
*. *.
That the committee of treasury be directed to use their endeavors to procure
gold and silver, as quickly as possible, to discharge the remainder:
That Messrs. Price and Haywood be allowed at the rate of five per cent. per
annum interest, for the balance that may be due to them, after deducting the
sum that shall be paid them by generals Schuyler and Gates, from the time of
such payment until the said balance is paid.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to advance one month’s pay to the
officers and men from Maryland, on their march to the flying-camp :
That the deputy quarter-master general be directed to supply the troops
from Maryland with such articles as they may stand in need of, out of the stores
in his hands belonging to the continent. ſº *
Resolved, That the five millions of dollars, last ordered to be emitted, consist
of the following numbers and denominations, viz.
76,923 of 30 dollars each, 2,307,690 76,924 of 5 dollars each, 384,620
76,923 of 8 do. ſº 615,384 76,923 of 4 do. gº 30.5%
76,923 of 7 do. tº 538,461 76,923 of 3 do. q : 230,769
76,923 of 6 do, sº 461,538 76,923 of 2 do. gº 153,846
- 5,000,000
Resolved, That an order for 2,666 2-3 dollars, be drawn on the treasurers
in favor of Ludwick Karcher, for the purpose of victualling the troops marching
to the flying-camp ; he to be accountable. g * ,
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Washington be informed that Congress have not re-
ceived the treaty between the state of Massachusetts-Bay and the St. John’s
and Micmac Indians, and that he be requested to send a copy thereof:
That the secret committee be directed to furnish colonel Wilson with 23
muskets, 22 lb. of powder, and 88 lb. of lead, for the use of his battalion of
militia. sº
The said board having recommended William Caldwell to be pay-master of
colonel Baldwin’s regiment of continental troops raised in Massachusetts-Bay,
and William Lawrence to be pay-master of colonel Shee's battalion of conti-
mental troops, raised in the state of Pennsylvania,
Resolved, That they be accepted, and that commissions be granted to them
accórdingly. *
Resolº , That an order for 2961-8 dollars be paid to the order of Messrs.
Simon and Campbell, in full of a draught in their favor by George Morgan,
dated at Pittsburg, June 3d, 1776, and that the same be charged to the account
of the commissioners for Indian affairs in the middle department.
Resolved, That the marine committee be directed to deliver to James Mease,
the sheeting, in their hands, for the use of the continental troops.
Congress being informed that Alexander Ross is detained at Pittsburg,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the commissioners for Indian affairs,
to enquire into this matter, and, if they find no new cause for detaining him
since he was before the committee of Congress, and they think it proper, that
they permit him to pursue his journey into the Indian country.
Resolved...That a member be added to the committee appointed to consider
the application of the Rev. Mr. Leonard.
The member chosen, Mr. Hall.
A letter, of the 12th, from brigadier-general Mercer, was read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war.
Congress took into consideration the articles of war, and, after some time
spºt thereon, the farther consideration thereof was postponed till to-morrow.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
VoI. I. 56
t
442 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
WEDNESDAY, August 14, 1776.
A letter of the 12th, from general Washington, with a return of the army at
New-York, and sundry other papers enclosed, being received, was read:
Also, sundry letters from England were read.
Resolved, That the letter from general Washington, with the papers enclosed,
be referred to the board of war.
On request of the delegates of New-Jersey,
Resolved, That the tutors in Princeton college be detained from going to
the flying-camp, and that the said tutors be directed to continue in the said
college exercising their several functions.
The committee appointed to devise a plan for encouraging the Hessians, and
other foreigners, to quit the British service, brought in a report, which was
i. into consideration; Whereupon, Congress came to the following reso-
ution:
Whereas it has been the wise pólicy of these states to extend the protection
of their laws to all those who should settle among them, of whatever nation or
religion they might be, and to admit them to a participation of the benefits of
civil and religious freedom ; and, the benevolence of this practice, as well as
its salutary effects, have rendered it worthy of being continued in future times.
And whereas, his Britannic majesty, in order to destroy our freedom and
happiness, has commenced against us a cruel and unprovoked war; and, unable
to engage Britons sufficient to execute his sanguinary measures, has applied
for aid to foreign princes, who are in the habit of selling the blood of their peo-
§. for money, and from them has procured and transported hither considera-
le numbers of foreigners. And it is conceived, that such foreigners, if ap-
prised of the practice of these states, would choose to accept of lands, liberty,
safety and a communion of good laws, and mild government, in a country where
many of their friends and relations are already happily settled, rather than con-
tinue exposed to the toils and dangers of a long and bloody war, waged against
a people, guilty of no other crime, than that of refusing to exchange freedom
for slavery ; and that they will do this the more especially when they reflect,
that after they have violated every Christian and moral precept, by invading,
and attempting to destroy, those who have never injured them or their coun-
try, their only reward, if they escape death and captivity, will be a return to
the despotism of their prince, to be by him again sold to do the drudgery of
some other enemy to the rights of mankind.
And whereas, the parliament of Great-Britain have thought fit, by a late
act, not only to invite our troops to desert our service, but to direct a compul-
sion of our people, taken at sea, to serve against their country:
Resolved, Therefore, that these states will receive all such foreigners who
shall leave the armies of his Britannic majesty in America, and shall choose
to become members of any of these states; and they shall be protected in the
free exercise of their respective religions, and be invested with the rights, pri-
vileges and immunities of natives, as established by the laws of these states;
and, moreover, that this Congress will provide, for every such person, fifty
acres of unappropriated lands in some of these states, to be held by him and
his heirs in absolute property.
Resolved, That the foregoing resolution be committed to the committee, who
brought in the report, and that they be directed to have it translated into Ger-
man, and to take proper measures to have it communicated to the foreign troops.
Itesolved, That Dr. Franklin be added to the said committee.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To captain William Ross, for subsistence and ferriage of his company of
67 men, of colonel Smith's battalion, on their march from York county to New
Jersey, the sum of 52 dollars, and 49-90ths:
-v-
*-*
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 443
To Daniel Smith, for captain Gamble’s allowance, from 26th April to 10th
August instant, being 15 weeks, at 2 dollars a week, the sum of 30 dollars:
To John Davis, for 33 days hire of a wagon transporting the baggage of capt.
Hay’s company of col. Irwin’s battalion, from §. to New-York, 110 dol-
lars, and for 41 meals supplied capt. Thomas Turbutt's company of col. Wil-
son’s battalion, on their march from Cumberland county to New-Jersey, the
sum of 4 dollars and 9-90ths.
To John Eshenbach, for 19 meals supplied recruits of capt. Cluggage’s com-
pany of colonel Hand’s battalion, 1 dollar and 81-90ths:
To colonel Clement Biddle, for 150 camp-kettles, 200 dollars:
To Dr. John Coates, for a set of surgeon’s instruments lost on his march with
general Arnold from Cambridge to Quebec, the sum of 26 dollars and 60-90ths:
To Sarah Campbell, for nursing and boarding 7 sick men belonging to cap-
tains Beaty, Benezet and Miller’s companies, 30 dollars and 7-90ths.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
A petition from Elisha Swift, and Adonijah Spanborrough, was presented to
Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the delegates from Pennsylvania and Con-
necticut.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration:
Whereupon, -
Resolved, That Monsieur Weibert, now serving in the continental army at
New-York, as an engineer, be appointed assistant engineer, with the rank and
pay of lieutenant-colonel; and that his pay commence from the time of his
engaging in the service.
ñº. general Mercer be directed to discharge or grant furloughs to Joseph
Kerr, hatter, a private of captain Will’s company in the first battalion; and
to Philip Mause, stocking-weaver, a private in captain Kling’s company of the
fourth battalion of Philadelphia militia; these two persons being applied for
by Mr. Mease, commissary, to whom their services are indispensably necessary
in making and providing clothing for the army.
Resolved, That the remainder of the report be postponed till to-morrow.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, August 15, 1776. *-
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration:
Whereupon,
. Resolved, That James Livingston, having been appointed a colonel of a re-
giment by general Montgomery, have a colonel’s commission given him, with
orders to inlist as many companies of Canadians as are willing to engage in
the service; and that the commander in chief, in the northern department, be
directed to recommend to Congress, proper persons for officers under him.
The council of safety of Pennsylvania, having recommended Mr. Bernard
Hubley, jun. as first lieutenant in the fifth company of the German battalion,
º That he be accepted, and that a commission be granted to him ac-
cordingly.
A petition from Return Jonathan Meigs, in behalf of himself and others,
Was presented to Congress, and read:
Resolved, That it referred to the board of war.
Resolved, That an order for 30,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurers, in favor
of James Mease, for the use of the militia going to New-Jersey.
Resolved, That the sum of 500 dollars be lodged in the hands of the auditor-
general, for the purpose of discharging small debts; he to be accountable.
ſº Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to colonel M'Cal-
lister, eight stand of arms for the use of his battalion, the said committee tak-
ing security for the return of the said arms:
444 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776,
That the said committee be directed to deliver to the delegates of North-
Carolina, five tons of lead, for the use of the troops in that state,
The committee to whom the letter from governor Trumbull of the 19th July,
with sundry depositions and papers, was referred, brought in their report,
which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
A petition from Jeremiah Dugan, was presented and read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Congress resumed the consideration of the instructions given to commodore
Hopkins, his examination and answers, &c. and, thereupon, came to the follow-
ing resolution:
Resolved, That the said commodore Hopkins, during his cruize to the south-
ward, did not pay due regard to the tenor of his instructions, whereby he was
expressly directed to annoy the enemy’s ships upon the coasts of the southern
states; and, that his reasons for not going from Providence immediately to the
Carolinas, are by no means satisfactory.
At the request of the delegates of Pennsylvania, the farther consideration
of the report was postponed till to-morrow.
A letter of the 14th, from general Washington, one from general Schuyler,
of the 7th, and one, of the #. from general Gates, being received, were read.
Resolved, That 500,000 dollars be sent to Mr. Trumbii, deputy pay-master
general, for the use of the army in the northern department.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to the order of the
marine committee, such stores by them imported as are necessary for the fleet.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, August 16, 1776.
A letter, of the 15th, from general Wºº. was read.
The board of treasury, who were appointed to prepare instructions for the
commissioners appointed to settle the accounts of the army at New-York, and
in the northern department, brought in a draught, which was read and agreed
to as follows:
To -
Gentlemen: You are appointed commissioners by the Congress, to liqui-
date the accounts of the army in You will, therefore, proceed im-
mediately to and apply to general to direct all persons
who have been engaged in transacting public business, to lay their accounts be-
fore you. Inyour examination, you will observe the utmost exactness; taking
care not to allow any accounts for which proper vouchers are not produced,
No officer is permitted to hold two commissions; consequently, is not to re-
ceive pay for two.
Every colonel of a battalion ought to produce muster-rolls, certified by the
muster-master, or such other person as may have been appointed by the com-
manding officer, to muster the men, of the number his battalion, from time to
time, consisted of.
No allowance of pay, or rations, is to be made to any officer for men who
have not been actually in the continental service.
If, in the settlement of these accounts, you shall discover any frauds to have
been practised, or abuses committed by misapplication of public moneys, you
shall take particular notice of them, and make especial report to the committee
of treasury. When you have completed this business, you are to transmit a
copy of your proceedings, with accounts, to the committee of treasury, to be by
them finally adjusted and discharged. Y.
. Ordered, That a copy be made out and delivered to the respective com-
IIllSS101162FS.
*
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 445
$
Resolved, That the sum of 250,000 dollars be sent to Ebenezer Hancock, esq.
deputy pay-master general, for the use of the army in the eastern department.
Resolved, That the sum of 1000 dollars be advanced to captain John David
Whelper, for the bounty money, &c. of his company; he to be accountable.
A petition from Dr. Samuel Stringer, was presented and read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the medical committee.
Resolved, That the medical committee be empowered to purchase such me-
dicines as they judge proper and useful for the army.
Resolved, That a member be added to the committee to whom were referred
the letters and papers respecting the murder of Mr. Parsons:
The member chosen, Mr. J. Adams. y
The committee, to whom the letter from general Putnam, in favor of the
rev. Abiel Leonard, was referred, reported,
“That it appears, from a farther certificate of general Putnam, that Mr.
Leonard performed the duty of a chaplain to other regiments than that of the
general’s, for the space of eight months, for which he has had no compensa-
tion; and that it also appears, that Mr. Leonard’s services, at that time in the
army, were very necessary and useful :” Whereupon,
Resolved, That the sum of 300 dollars be paid to the said Mr. Abiel Leo-
nard, as a reward for his services.
Resolved, That the letters received yesterday from general Washington,
general Schuyler, and general Gates, be referred to the board of war.
Congress resumed the consideration of the instructions given to commodore
Hopkins, his examination and answers, &c. and, thereupon came to the follow-
‘ing resolution:
Resolved, That the said conduct of commodore Hopkins deserves the cen-
sure of this house, and this house does accordingly censure him.
Ordered, That a copy of the resolutions passed against commodore Hopkins
be transmitted to him.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, August 17, 1776.
A letter of the 13th, from general Washington, was read.
The delegates of New-Jersey laid before Congress a resolution of their con-
yº empowering any one of them to represent the said state, in these
WOTCIS :
“IN PRovincIAL congress, NEw-JERSEY, Burlington, June 22, 1776.
“Upon the question, whether one or more delegates shall be a quorum to
represent this province in Continental Congress, it was carried in favor of
Olle,
“Extract from the minutes,
“WILLIAM PATTERSON, Secretary.”
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To John Bates, for 187 camp-kettles, delivered to Clement Biddle, deputy
quarter-master general, 249 dollars:
To George Bunner, for a rifle purchased by lieutenant Moses Rawling, from
John Piper, in Maryland, for the use of captain Grier's rifle-company, and to
be charged to said company, 10 60-90 dollars:
To Messrs. Gibson, and Aston, for 5 rifles furnished captain Morgan's com-
Pany of riflemen, by persons in Frederick county, Virginia, and certified b
the committee there, and to be charged to the said Morgan, 6580-90 dollars.
To James Mercer, for 597 meals furnished to the militia on their march to
New-Jersey, 59.63-90 dollars:
To William Clayton, for 454 meals supplied the militia on their march to
New-Jersey, 45 36-90 dollars:
446 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
*
To William Allibone, for his expenses in search of flint-stones, by direction
of the board of war, 6 dollars :
To Joseph Hinzey, for 7 chairs and a stool, for the use of the treasury office,
15 18-90 dollars :
To William M’Carroll, for the passage of prisoners taken by captain Barry
from Egg-Harbor to Philadelphia, with their maintenance on the road, 456-90
dollars:
To colonel Henry Haller, 425 39-90 dollars, of which sum 20 dollars are to
be charged to captain Nelson, for two rifles delivered to him by David Miers;
1454-90 dollars to the army, for rations supplied captain Nelson’s company;
24 dollars for contingent expenses of three expresses; and 366 75-90 dollars
for provisions for the prisoners at Reading, with fire-wood, salt, straw, &c. in-
cluding 39 days’ service of the said Haller:
To George Struylys, for entertainment of the militia on their march to New-
Jersey, 78 64-90 dollars:
To Robert Jewell, for sundry bills for the repair of the old gaol in Philadel-
hia, and work done at the new gaol, 178 53-90 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The committee on Indian affairs, to whom sundry letters and papers from
Pittsburg were referred, having examined them, laid the same on the table, and
desired they might be read, which was done.
Resolved, That an order for 50 dollars be drawn on the treasurer, in favor
of George Morgan, for the use of Peter Long, for his services in the Indian
country.
Wººd, That the accounts of George Morgan, esq. be referred to the board
of treasury.
A letter of this day, from Martin Johnson, lieutenant of artillery, was laid
before Congress and read ; wherein he desires Congress to enquire into the
circumstances of Mr. Anstruther’s diamond ring, which he acknowledges he
has ; that he never made a secret of it; that he ſound the ring sometime after
the garrison capitulated, and thought it to be a prize; and, for the truth of what
he asserts, refers Congress to the certificates of several principal officers.
Resolved, That lieutenant Martin Johnson be directed to deliver the ring to
the secretary of the war office, who is ordered to send the same to Mr. Anstru-
ther, the owner. K
Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee to whom
was referred brigadier-general Wooster’s letter, requesting an enquiry into his
conduct while he had the honor of commanding the continental forces in Cana-
da, which was read, as follows:
That brigadier-general Wooster produced copics of a number of letters.
which passed between him and general Schuyler, and of his letters to Con-
gress; from which it appears that he, from time to time, gave seasonable and
due notice of the state of the army under his command, and what supplies were,
in his opinion, necessary to render the enterprize successful; that a number of
officers and other gentlemen from Canada, who were acquainted with his con-
duct there, and who happened occasionally to be in this city, were examined
before the committee; to which letters, and the minutes of the examination of
the witnesses herewith exhibited, the committee beg leave to refer Congress
for further information, and report, as the opinion of the committee, upon the
whole of the evidence that was before them, that nothing censurable or blame-
worthy appears against brigadier-general Wooster.
The report being again read, was agreed to.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That Gustavus Risberg be appointed assistant to Clement Biddle,
†. quarter-master general to the flying-camp, and that he reside at Phila-
elphia.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 447
war-—r
Resolved, That general Washington be desired to propose an exchange of
his Britannic majesty’s prisoners, captivated at St. Johns and Chambly, for
those in the service of the United States, taken in Canada:
That major Meggs be exchanged for major French, and captain Henry Dear-
born for an officer of his rank:
That in case a general exchange of prisoners should not be agreed to, that
provision be made for ... our prisoners in Canada with necessaries, by
procuring and sending bills of exchange, drawn by British officers, prisoners in
these states; or, if such cannot be obtained, that cash be sent to them.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention of Maryland, to raise
and arm two battalions upon the continental establishment:
That the men for the said battalions be inlisted to serve during the war, un-
less sooner discharged by Congress:
That the said convention recommend to Congress suitable persons for field
officers of the said battalions, and appoint all the other officers:
That the said battalions be taken into continental pay so soon as they are
armed and accoutred for service, and accordingly mustered :
That 20,000 dollars be sent to the said convention, to defray the expenses of
raising the said battalions; to be accounted for to Congress.
Colonel Biddle having, by order of general Mercer, applied for the following
articles, viz. 500 firelocks with bayonets, and 500 bayonets with scabbards of
different sizes, 200 spare ramrods, 4,000 priming wires, and 20,000 flints:
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease, commissary, be directed to provide and deli-
ver to colonel Biddle, or his order, the above articles, or as many of them as can
be procured.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, August 19, 1776.
A letter, of the 12th, from general Washington, with the proceedings and
judgment of a court-martial againstcol. Donald Campbell enclosed, was read:
Resolved, That the proceedings and judgment of the court-martial be sent
to general Schuyler for his approbation or disapprobation.
Another letter, of the 14th, from general Washington, with papers enclosed,
relative to Mr. Nubile, a foreigner, was read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war. ſ
A letter of the 14th, from commodore Hopkins, was read; Whereupon,
Resolved, That commodore Hopkins be directed to repair to Rhode-Island,
and take the command of the fleet formerly put under his care.
A letter, of the 19tſ; from lieutenant M. Johnson, was read; Whereupon,
Fesolved, That the stoppage of lieutenant M. Johnson’s pay be taken off, and
that he receive what is due to him.
A letter of the 19th, from brigadier-general Wooster, was read;
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The board of war having recommended captain James Chapman to be major
of colonel Tyler’s battalion, and captain Thomas Dyer to be major of colonel
Durkee’s, ^.
Resolved, That they be accepted, and that commissions be granted to them
accordingly. \ *
Resolved, That the board of treasury be empowered to employ another press
to print the bills of credit, and that Matthew Clarkson and Walter Shee, esqrs.
be appºinted superintendents of the press, in addition to those already ap-
pointed for that service.
à, Petition from Chapman Ashur was presented to Congress, and read.
The committee on Indian affairs, to whom the letters from the commission-
ers in the middle and southern departments were referred, brought in a report,
which was taken into consideration ; Whereupon,
448 Journals of congress, 1776.
.***
Resolved, That it be left to the discretion of the commissioners in the mid-
dle department, to postpone the holding the treaty with the Indians in their de-
partment, to such time as they think best; and that, iſ, by continuing at Pitts-
burg in the mean while, they are of opinion they shall be able to bring the In-
dians into a friendly disposition, and to render the treaty more general, they
be desired to continue there:
That the invitation given by the said commissioners to such of the Six Na-
tions of Indians, as live on the waters of the Ohio, to attend the said treaty,
be approved;
º: the said commissioners be instructed to make diligent enquiry into
the murder lately committed by Indians, in the neighborhood of Pittsburg, on
one Crawford; and that, as soon as they discover by whom the same was com-
mitted, they demand due punishment on the offender or offenders, which be-
ing granted, this Congress will not consider the same as a national act:
That the said commissioners invite such of the Indian chiefs and warriors of
their department, as they think best, to visit Congress at Philadelphia, after
the ... of the treaty with them :
That the following extract from the speech of Logan, an Indian chief, be
transmitted to the commissioners for the middle department, viz. “We still
hear bad news. Connesdico and some of us are constantly threatened. And
the Bear-skin, a trader from Pennsylvania, amongst others, says, a great re-
ward is offered to any person, who will take or entice either of us to Pittsburg,
where we are to be hanged up like dogs by the Big-knife. This being true,
how can we think of what is good. That it is true we have no doubt, and you
may depend on it, that the Bear-skin told Metopsica every word of what I
have mentioned.” And that they be directed to do all in their power to re-
move every jealousy of the United States, or either of them, from the minds of
the Indians. And, as it may possibly happen, that the persons concerned in
the Indian trade, in order to engross to themselves or to the traders of their
own state, the whole of the said Indian trade, may, by false suggestions, en-
deavor to poison the minds of the said Indians, and render them inimical to
any other state, and to involve such state in an Indian war, that it be there-
fore recommended to the assemblies and conventions of the several states, from
which trade is carried on with the Indians, that they take the most effectual
measures to prevent the traders of their respective states from pursuing a prac-
tice so dangerous to the peace of the United States :
That so much of the Indian speech as relates to the Nantikokes, be sent to
the convention of Maryland, and that they be requested to give Congress such
information upon the subject as they can obtain : .# f
That agreeable to the proposition from the commissioners for Indian affairs
in the southern department, Mr. Galphin and Mr. Ray be desired to invite such
of the head men of the Creeks, as they shall think expedient, to visit Congress
at Philadelphia, and that Mr. Galphin or Mr. Ray be requested to attend
them hither, and that Congress will defray the expenses of such journey.
Resolved, That the part of the report respecting the neutrality of the In-
dians be postponed. f
Resolved, #. the sum of 1200 dollars be advanced to the commissioners
appointed to audit and settle the accounts of the army at New-York, and in
the northern department; they to be accountable.
Congress resumed the consideration of the articles of war, as revised by the
committee for that purpose appointed, and after some time spent thereon, the
farther consideration thereof was postponed.
Resolved, That captain Archibald Hamilton be permitted to reside at New-
Brunswick, until the farther orders of Congress.
The committee to whom was referred, the petition from Elisha Swift, &c.
brought in their report.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 449
—º-
The committeee of treasury reported, that there is due, *
To Jacob Vanderhyden for clothing supplied the army in Canada, viz. capt.
Ten Eyck's company, £256 155; to capt. John Visher's company £ 188145.5
to capt. John Visgar, £34,66; to capt. John Graim, £520 7; to gen. Arnold,
for the army, £4 19 0; for shoes purchased by order of the commissioners of ~
Congress, £21 12 0; the whole amounting to £595 7 11, lawful money,
equal to 1984 59-90 dollars; g &
To George Morgan, esq. for the balance of his account for sundries supplied
for the middle department, to be charged to the commissioners for Indian affairs
in the said department, 377 75-90 dollars:
To Robert Irwin, for the hire of four teams, and their ferriage, to New-
York, 162 20-90 dollars :
To Christian Voigt, for 116 meals supplied the troops on their march to
New-Jersey, 7 33-90 dollars; and that the same be paid to George Huf-
imagel :
o George Hufnagel, for 666 meals supplied the troops on their march to
New-Jersey, 42 25-90 dollars :
To colonel Jeremiah Dugan, for the balance of his account for supplies to
the army in Canada, exclusive of sundry articles for which he has produced no
vouchers, 698 45-90 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, August 20, 1776.
A letter of the 18th, from general Washington, with sundry papers enclosed,
was laid before Congress, and read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to a committee of five:
The members chosen, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Franklin, Mr. Rutledge, Mr. J.
Adams, and Mr. Hooper. - º
A petition from Harduin Mertlet, was read, and referred to the Canada
committee. *
The committee to whom was referred, the petition from Dr. Stringer, brought
in their report, which was taken into consideration; whereupon,
. Resolved, That Dr. Morgan was appointed director-general and physician
in chief of the American hospital :
That Dr. Stringer was appointed director and physician of the hospital in
the northern department only: ...'
That every director of a hospital possesses the exclusive right of appointing
surgeons and hospital officers of all kinds, agreeable to the resolutions of Con-
#. of the 17th of July, in his own department, unless otherwise directed by
ongress: `
That Dr. Stringer be authorized to appoint a surgeon for the fleet now fitting
out upon the lakes : *
That a druggist be appointed in Philadelphia, whose business it shall be, to
receive and deliver all medicines, instruments, and shop-furniture for the bene-
fit of the United States :
That a salary of 30 dollars a month be paid to the said druggist for his labor.
Congress proceeded to the election of a druggist, and, the ballots being
taken, Dr. William Smith was elected. sº
The board of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Joseph, Haight, for sundry supplies of provisions and wood for the pri-
soners at Burlington, from the 16th June to the 18th July last, 277 36-90 dollars:
Ordered, That the same be paid.
A letter from Mease and Caldwell was laid before Congress, and read :
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of three:
Vol. T. 57.
430 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
14.
The members chosen, Mr. Walton, Mr. Morris, and Mr. Paine. .
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take into their
farther consideration the articles of confederation ; and after some time, the
resident resumed the chair, and Mr. Morton reported, that the committee
#: had under consideration the articles of confederation, had gone through
the same, and agreed to sundry articles, which he was ordered to submit to
Congress.
The report of the committee being read,
Ordered, That eighty copies of the articles of confederation, as reported
from the committee of the whole, be printed under the same injunctions as the
former articles, and delivered to the members under the like instructions as
formerly.
Resolved, That Mr. Hamilton Young be permitted to reside in Pennsylva-
nia, until the farther orders of Congress.
The committee appointed to prepare a device for a great seal for the United
States, brought in the same, with an explanation thereof:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
A letter of the 19th, from general Washington, was read.
Information being given to Congress that the crews of some of the Ameri-
can vessels have risen against their captains, and piratically seized the vessels,
and that one of them being carried into England, the pirates have been publicly
countenanced, and the vessel and cargo taken by administration, and sent to
victual their fleet and army in America :
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to enquire into the cir-
cumstances of the captures, and report thereon : t
The members chosen, Mr. Franklin, Mr. Morris, and Mr. Jefferson.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
v * WEDNESDAY, August 21, 1776.
fº petition from Prudehome la Junesse was read, and referred to the board
OI Wall”.
The committee to whom the memorial of Samuel Holden Parsons was re-
ferred, brought in their report, which was read: Whereupon,
Resolved, That Bazil Bouderot, mentioned in the said memorial, be sent to
the state of Massachusetts-Bay, and there delivered to the council of the said
state, and that it be recommended to the said council to proceed against the
said Bazil Bouderot according to the laws of their state; but, if they have no
law by which crimes committed out of their state may be tried within the same,
that,then they confine the said Bazil Bouderot, until the situation of public
affairs will admit his being removed to Nova-Scotia, where the crime is alleged
to have been committed, and there submitted to a fair trial, according to the
ancient laws of that province. t *
The committee to whom part of the report from the committee on spies was
re-committed, having brought in a report, the same was taken into considera-
tion: Whereupon,
Resolved, That all persons, not members of, nor owing allegiance to, any of
the United States of America, as described in a resolution of Congress of the
24th of June last, who shall be found lurking as spies in or about the fortifica-
tions or encampments of the armies of the United States, or of any of them,
shall suffer death, according to the law and usage of nations, by sentence of a
court-martial, or such other punishment as such court-martial shall direct.
Ordered, That the above resolution be printed at the end of the rules and
articles of war.
Resolved, That 500,000 dollars be sent to the pay-master general for the use
of the army at New-York. *
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 451
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration'
Whereupon, g
Resolved, That the cannon committee be directed to contract for the imme-
diate casting of six 6 pounders, six 12 pounders, four 8 inch howitzers, four 6
inch howitzers, and 6 cohorn mortars, to be made of brass, if a sufficient quantity
of that metal can be procured; if not, to be cast of iron, and sent, as soon as
possible, to general Gates for the use of the northern army, and that the said
committee provide also carriages, and every thing necessary to complete the
said artillery for service: tº
That major-general Ward be authorized and requested, if his health will
permit, to continue in the command of the forces in the service of the United
States, in the eastern department, until farther orders:
That the cannon committee be authorized to possess themselves of the cop-
per said to be at New-London, belonging to the United States. -z-
Resolved, That colonel Henry Knox be authorized to draw upon the pay-
master general for money sufficient to pay for any quantity of copper that can
be procured for the use of the United States; he to render an account of the
sums drawn for, and the copper purchased.
Resolved, That the letter from general Washington, read yesterday, and that
of the 12th, with the papers enclosed, be referred to the board of war.
A letter to the committee of secret correspondence was read.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to revise the resolutions
of Congress, respecting the place where prizes are to be carried into, and to
bring in such farther resolutions as to them shall seem proper:
The members chosen, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Morris, and Mr. J. Adams.
The several matters to this day referred, being postsoned,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, August 22, 1776.
A letter, of the 20th, from gen, Washington, enclosing a copy of major Bige-
low’s journal, and gen. Carleton’s order of the 4th of August; also, a letter of
the 16th, from general Schuyler, were read.
Resolved, That the letter from general Washington, with the papers en-
closed, be referred to the board of war:
That the letter from general Schuyler be referred to the committee on the
miscarriages in Canada.
The president laid before Congress a warrant for apprehending Thomas
Reed, Patrick Ballantine, and Robert Gilmore, and informed that, in conse-
quence thereof, a party of light-horse have brought the prisoners to Philadel-
phia, where they are confined, under a guard, at the Indian-Queen tavern.
£esolved, That the prisoners be sent for examination to the council of safety
of Pennsylvania.
Resolved, That 1400 dollars be paid to Alexander Tod, it being in full of
an order in his favor, drawn by George Morgan, for goods purchased for the
treaty at Pittsburg, and that the same be charged to the accounts of the com-
missioners, for Indian affairs in the middle department.
Resolved, That an order for 2000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer, in favor
9f colonel Mark Bird, who has contracted to cast cannon for the United States 3
he to be accountable.
The board of War brought in a report, which was read.
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The committee, to whom the letter from general Washington of the 18th,
was referred, brought in a report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
99"gress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
consideration, the form of a treaty ; and, after some time, the president re-
\
452 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
sumed the chair, and Mr. Nelson reported, that the committee have had under
consideration the matter to them referred; but, not having had time to go
through the same, desired leave to sit again.
'Resolved, That Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee of
the whole, to take into consideration the plan of foreign treaties.
A letter of the 18th, from the council of safety of Maryland, was read;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That 26,666 2-3 dollars, be advanced to the council of safety of
Maryland, for the use of the troops raised for the flying-camp; they to be
accountable.
A letter from brigadier-general Lewis; also, a letter from the committee of
Carlisle, in Pennsylvania, enclosing a memorial from the officers, prisoners
there, were read, and referred to the board of war.
The marine committee having recommended Dudley Saltonstal to the com-
mand of the frigate Trumbull; Jonathan Maltbay, first-lieutenant, and David
Phipps to be second-lieutenant of the said frigate;—Wilson to be first-lieu-
tenant of the Washington, and John Nicholson to be second-lieutenant of ditto;
John Hodge to command the Montgomery frigate, at New-York.
º: , That they be accepted, and commissions granted to them ac-
cordingly.
..., That the secret committee be directed to deliver to major Ni-
chols, a number of muskets, sufficient to arm the marines under his command
in this city.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Robert Jewell, for a writing-desk, stools, &c. for the board of war, the
sum of 31 60-90ths dollars: r
To John Bates, for 120 camp-kettles, delivered to deputy quarter-master
general C. Biddle, 160 dollars:
To John Bogart, for the expenses of burying a soldier of captain Harman’s
company, and for maintenance and nursing of him, and one other soldier, be-
longing to captain Willet’s company, both of the first Pennsylvania battalion,
1930-90ths dollars; and for the expense of guards escorting powder, &c.
531-90ths dollars; both amounting to 24 61-90ths dollars; and to be paid to
Joseph Burrell: *
To Oswald Eve, for surveying the inlets to the northward of Cape-May, by
order of a committee of Congress, 224 55-90ths dollars:
To Richard Bache, Stephen Paschall and Michaels Hillegas, for superin-
tending the E. from December the 13th, 1775, to February the 3d, 1776,
in printing the second emission of continental bills of credit, and of the 10,000
dollars, struck for the purpose of exchanging torn and ragged bills, 45 days
each, at two dollars, agreeable to a resolve of Congress, 270 dollars:
To James Budden, for hire of wagons and expenses of prisoners, &c. to
Reading and Carlisle, 16454-90ths dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.

FRIDAY, August 28, 1776.
A letter of the 21st from general Washington, enclosing a copy of a letter
from him to lord Howe, together with his lordship’s answer, was read:
Resolved, That the same be referred to the board of war, with orders to
publish the general’s letter to 1ord Howe, and his lordship's answer.
A petition from William Holton was read, and referred to the marine com-
mittee. t º-
à petition from James M'Henry was read, and referred to the medical com-
YùtúC€,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 453
A petition from Lewis Prahl, gun-smith, was read; praying that the work-
men in his manufactory may be exempted from going to the flying-caump, and
that two of his workmen, who have inlisted, may be discharged :
Resolved, That the prayer of the petition be granted.
The delegates from Pennsylvania and Connecticut, to whom the applica-
tion from the convention of Pennsylvania, and the inhabitants, settled under
Connecticut, in the town of Westmoreland, was referred, brought in a report,
which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That six companies, on the continental establishment, be raised
in Pennsylvania, and posted along the frontiers of the counties of Northum-
berland and parts adjacent, till further orders of Congress:
That suitable persons be recommended to Congress, by the convention of
Pennsylvania, for a lieutenant-colonel and major, to command the said forces,
and that the said convention appoint the captains and subalterns:
That two companies, on the continental establishment, be raised in the town
of Westmoreland, and stationed in proper places for the defence of the in-
habitants of the said town and parts adjacent, till farther orders of Congress;
the commissioned officers of the said two companies to be immediately ap-
pointed by Congress:
That the pay of the men to be raised as aforesaid, commence when they are
armed and mustered, and that they be liable to serve in any part of the Unit-
ed States, when ordered by Congress:
That the said troops be inlisted to serve during the war, unless sooner dis-
charged by Congress.
Resolved, That any number of troops, ordered into the service of the conti-
ment, by Maryland, above the quota of that state, be taken into continental pay:
A letter from Mr. Temple, of Charlestown, in Massachusetts-Bay, was laid
before Congress, and read :
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Hooper, Mr. Heyward, and Mr. Stone.
Resolved, That an order for 30,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer, in
favor of Mr. James Mease, for the public service; he to be accountable.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report from the marine committee;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the marine committee be authorized and empowered to pur-
chase materials, in all such parts of America as they may think proper, for
building more ships of war, and that the said committee report to Congress a
plan of the ships that should be built in addition to the present navy.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, August 26, 1776.
Three letters, of the 22d and 23d, from general Washington, with sundry pa-
pers enclosed; a letter from William Finnie, deputy quarter-master general of
the southern department, were read and referred to the board of war.
A letter of the 18th, from general Schuyler, was read ; and the same, to-
gether with the minutes of the treaty held with the Indians at the German-
Flats, were referred to the standing committee on Indian affairs.
. A letter from William Coxe and others, owners of three privateers fitting out
in Philadelphia, was read, and referred to the marine committee.
A petition from George Measam was read and referred to the board of war.
Congress proceeded to the election of sundry officers, when Jonathan Day-
ton was elected regimental pay-master of colonel Dayton's battalion; Robert
Burkee and Samuel Ransom, captains of the two companies ordered to be rais-
ed in the town of Westmoreland; James Wellis and Perin Ross, first lieute.
nants ; Ashael Buck and Simon Spalding, second lieutenants; and Heman
Swift and Matthew Hollomback, ensigns of said companies,
454 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
On application from the convention of the state of Pennsylvania,
Resolved, That 100,000 dollars be lent to the said convention of Pennsylva-
nia, to be put into the hands of the council of safety; the said state to be ac-
countable.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to send to capt. Durkee 200
lb. powder, and a proportionable quantity of lead, for the use of the two West-
moreland companies.
Resolved, That an order for 500 dollars be drawn on the treasurer, in favor
of Mr. Philip Schuyler, in full for 500 lb. of powder purchased on the Eastern-
Shore, for the use of the continental forces.
Resolved, That the president be empowered to give orders for the payment
of the bills drawn by the treasurers of North-Carolina, for the use of the conti-
mental forces in that state.
On application of the parties,
Resolved, That the hearing and determining upon the appeal against the ver-
dict and judgment passed upon the schooner Thistle, be farther postponed to
Monday, the 9th of September next.
A petition from sundry paper-makers was presented to Congress, and read,
praying that Nathan Sellers, an associator in colonel Paschall’s battalion, may
be ordered back from New-Jersey, to make and prepare moulds, washers, and
utensils for carrying on the paper manufactory:
Resolved, That the prayer of the petition be granted.
Congress resumed the report of the committee on disabled soldiers and sea-
men, and came to the following resolutions:
Whereas, in the course of the present war, some commissioned and non-
commissioned officers of the army and navy, as also private soldiers, marines,
and seamen, may lose a limb, or be otherwise so disabled as to prevent their
. in the army or navy, or getting their livelihood, and may stand in need
of relief:
Resolved, That every commissioned officer, non-commissioned officer, and
private soldier, who shall lose a limb in any engagement, or be so disabled in
the service of the United States of America as to render him incapable after-
wards of getting a livelihood, shall receive, during his life, or the continuance
of such disability, the one half of his monthly pay from and after the time that
his pay as an officer or soldier ceases; to be paid by the committee as hereafter
mentioned :
That every commander of any ship of war or armed vessel, commisſioned of.
ficer, warrant officer, marine or seaman, belonging to the United States of
America, who shall lose a limb in any engagement in which no prize shall be
taken, or be therein otherwise so disabled as to be rendered incapable of getting
a livelihood, shall receive, during his life, or the continuance of such disabili-
ty, the one half of his monthly pay, from and after the time that his pay as an
officer or marine or seaman ceases; to be paid as hereafter mentioned. But,
in case a prize shall be taken at the time such loss of limb or other disabilit
shall happen, then such sum as he may receive out of the net profits of such
prize, before a dividend is made of the same, agreeable to former orders of
Congress, shall be considered as part of his half pay, and computed accord-
ingly : ºu
That every commissioned officer, non-commissioned officer, and private sol-
dier, in the army, and every commander, commission officer, warrant officer,
marine, or seaman of any of the ships of war, or armed vessels belonging to the
United States of America, who shall be wounded in any engagement, so as to
be rendered incapable of serving in the army or navy, though not totally disa-
bled from getting a livelihood, shall receive such monthly sum as shall be judg-
ed adequate by the assembly or other representative body of the state where he
belongs or resides, upon application to them for that purpose, provided the same
doth not exceed his half pay. , - .
1
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 455
Provided, that no commissioned officer, non-commissioned officer, and private
soldier, in the army, commander, commission officer, warrant officer, marine
or seaman of any of the ships of war, or armed vessels, belonging to the United
States of America, who shall be wounded or disabled as aforesaid, shall be enti-
tled to his half pay or other allowance, unless he produce to the committee or
officer appointed to receive the same, in the state where he resides or belongs, or
to the assembly or legislative body of such state, a certificate from the com-
manding officer, who was in the same engagement in which he was so wounded,
or, in case of his death, from some other officer of the same corps, and the sur-
geon that attended him, or a certificate from the commander of the ship of war
or armed vessel engaged in the action, in which any officer, marine, or seaman,
received his wound, and from the surgeon who attended him, of the name of the
person so wounded, his office, rank, department, regiment, company, ship of
war, or armed vessel, to which he belonged, his office or rank therein, the na-
ture of his wound, and in what action or engagement he-received it,
That it be recommended to the several assemblies or legislative bodies of
the United States of America, to appoint some person or persons in their res-
pective states, who shall receive and examine all such certificates, as may be
presented to them, and register the same in a book, and also what support is
adjudged by the assembly or legislative body of their state, to those, whose
case requires but a partial support, and also of the payment from time to time of
every half-pay and other allowance, and of the death of such disabled person,
or ceasing of such allowance, and shall make a fair and regular report of the
same quarterly to the secretary of Congress or board of war, where a separate
record shall be kept of the same :
That it be recommended to the assemblies or legislative bodies of the se-
veral states, to cause payment to be made of all such half-pay or other allow-
ances as shall be adjudged due to the persons aforenamed, on account of the
United States.
Provided, that all such officers and soldiers that may be entitled to the afore-
said pension, and are found to be capable of doing guard or garrison-duty,
shall be formed into a corps of invalids, and subject to the said duty; and
all officers, marines, and seamen of the navy who shall be entitled to the pension
aforesaid, and shall be found capable of doing any duty on board the navy, or
any department thereof, shall be liable to be so employed:
Ordered, That the above be published.
The medical committee, to whom Dr. M'Henry’s petition was referred,
brought in a report: Whereupon,
Aesolved, That Congress have a proper sense of the merit and services of
Dr. M'Henry, and recommend to the directors of the different hospitals belong-
ing to the United States, to appoint Dr. M'Henry to the first vacancy that
shall happen, of a surgeon's birth in any of the said hospitals.
A letter of the 22d, from colonel James Wilson, was read, and referred to
Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Franklin, and Mr. J. Adams.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, August 27, 1776.
A letter of the 23d, from general Mercer, was read, and referred to the
board of war.
A petition from Pelatiah Webster, was presented to Congress, and read,
praying leave to sell the sloop Betsey, belonging to Abiel Wood, of Pownal-
borough, in the province of Maine; from selling of which he is restrained by the
Sommittee of inspection of the city and liberties of Philadelphia, on account of
*ºptions taken to the political character of the owner: Whereupon,
JResolved, That the petitioner have leave to sell the said sloop; the money
*ing from the sale, to be lodged in the hands of the assembly of Massachu-
f
456 JOURNALS-OF CONGRESS, 1776.
*-ºr -ºr-mºrr-
setts-Bay, and by them disposed of in the same manner as the other estate of
the owner.
Resolved, That Zebulon Butler, esq. be appointed to supply the two compa-
nies ordered to be raised in the town of Westmoreland, with provisions; and
that he be allowed therefor, at the rate of 1-12th part of a dollar per ration,
until farther order of Congress.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration:
Whereupon, *. * f
Resolved, That it be recommended to the legislature of the commonwealth
of Virginia, to provide clothing for the continental troops raised in that state;
the expense of the said clothing to be paid out of the continental military-chest
for the southern department, and deducted out of the soldiers’ pay:
That Mr. Measam, who petitions to be provided for on the score of his
having served in Canada, and also desires payment of an account against the
continent, be referred to the treasury-board, or a settlement of his account.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to the Mary-
land troops, such arms as are in their possession, belonging to the continent,
and not already appropriated ; the state of Maryland to be accountable for
such arms delivered to their troops,
The committee, to whom the letter from colonel Wilson was referred, brought
in a report, which was taken into consideration: Whereupon, Congress came
to the following resolutions:
Congress proceeding to take into farther consideration the expediency of in-
viting, from the service of his Britannic majesty, such foreigners as are en-
gaged therein, and expecting that, among the º having command in the
said foreign corps, there may be many of liberal minds, possessing just sen-
timents of the rights of human nature, and of the inestimable value of freedom,
who may be prompted to renounce so dishonorable a service, by the feelings of
humanity, and a just indignation at the office to which they are devoted by an
infamous contract between two arbitrary sovereigns, and at the insult offered
them, by compelling them to wage war against an innocent people, who never
offended them, nor the nation to which they belong, but are only contending
for their just rights; and willing to tender to them also, as they had before
done to the soldiers of their corps, a participation of the blessings of peace,
liberty, property and mild government: §
Resolved, That this Congress will give,to all such of the said foreign officers,
as shall leave the armies of his Britannic majesty in America, and choose to
become citizens of these states, unappropriated lands, in the following quanti-
ties and proportions, to them and their heirs in absolute dominion ; to a colonel,
1000 acres; to a lieutenant-colonel, .800 acres; to a major, 600 acres; to a
captain, 400 acres; to a lieutenant, 300 acres; to an ensign, 200 acres; to
every non-commissioned officer, 100 acres, and tò every other officer or per-
son employed in the said foreign corps, and whose office or employment is
not here specifically named, in the like proportion to their rank or pay in the
said corps; and, moreover, that where any officers shall bring with them
a number of the said foreign soldiers, this ongress, besides the lands before
promised to the said officers and soldiers, will give to such officers further re-
wards, proportioned to the numbers they shalſ bring over, and suited to the
nature of their wants. Provided, that such foreign officers or soldiers shall
come over from the armies of his Britannic majesty, before these offers shall
be recalled. &
Itesotved, That this Congress agrees to the proposition from general Howe,
that in exchange of prisoners, the choice shall be made by the respective com-
manders for their own officers and men; provided the respective commanders
shall also have a right to make choice what citizens shall be given in exchange
by the other. w
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 457
–-**
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consi-
deration the plan of foreign treaties; and, after some time, the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr.Nelson reported, that the committee have gone through
the same, and made sundry amendments therein.
Resolved, That the plan of treaties, with the amendments, be referred to the
committee who brought in the original plan, in order to draw up instructions
pursuant to the amendments made by the committee of the whole.
That two members be added to the said committee:
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee and Mr. Wilson.
A petition from the deputy commissary-general was read, and referred to
the board of war. **.
Sundry members of the committee, appointed to revise the journals, and Su-
perintend the printing thereof, being absent,
Resolved, That four members be added to the said committee, and that any
two be a quorum:
The members chosen, Mr. Heyward, Mr. Hooper, Mr. Williams, and Mr.
Walton. *-
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, August 28, 1776.
A letter of the 26th, from general Washington, enclosing a copy of a letter
- to him from lord Drummond; also, a letter of the 27th, from captain Wade,
were read:
Resolved, That the letter fiom captain Wade be referred to the board of
treasury, and that they be directed to send him 100 dollars; for which he is
to be accountable.
A petition from Jacob Bankson, and one from Jean Langeay, were read, and
referred to the board of war.
Resolved, That an order for 500,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer, in
. of the marine committee, who are to be accountable for the expenditure
thereof.
Resolved, That an order for 5000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer, in favor
of the delegates of Georgia, for the purpose of purchasing rifles for the troops or-
dered to be raised for the defence of that state, and for defraying the expenses
of their march to Georgia; the said delegates to be accountable for the expen-
diture thereof.
Congress being informed that one of the Virginia battalions was on their
march to New-Jersey, and that they intend to pass through Yorktown and
Philadelphia,
Resolved, That the commanding officer of the said battalion be directed to
march from Yorktown, by the nearest route, to New-Jersey; there to be subject
to the orders of general Washington. -
. The marine committee having recommended Joseph Greenway to be third
- lieut. on board the Delaware frigate, commanded by Charles Alexander, esq.
Resolved, That he be accepted, and a commission granted to him accordingly.
A petition from Jacob Fowler was read, and referred to the standing com-
mittee for Indian affairs.
Resolved, That the marine committee be directed to lend ten bolts of light
duck to the delegates of Maryland, for the use of the troops from that state;
prºvided the same can be done without prejudicing the marine service.
Resolved, That an order for 312 dollars and 24.90ths be drawn on the trea-
§urer, in favor of the medical committee; the same being for a box of rhubarb
bought by them of Pelatiah Webster.
The delegates of Virginia produced new credentials of their appointment,
which were read as follows:
Wor, H. " 58
458 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
“VIRGINIA, scT. IN Convention, THURSDAY, June 20, 1776.
“The convention proceeded, according to the order of the day, to the appoint-
ment of delegates to represent this colony in general Congress, and, the mem.
bers having prepared tickets, and put the same into the ballot-box, Mr. Trea-
surer, Mr. George Mason, Mr. Blair, Mr. Holt, and Mr. Henry Tazewell,
were appointed a committee to examine the same, and report upon whom the
majority falls; and, it appearing, from the report of the committee, that the
majority was in favor of George Wythe, Thomas Nelson, Richard Henry Lee,
Thomas Jefferson, and Francis Lightfoot Lee, esqrs.
Resolved, therefore, That the said George Wythe, Thomas Nelson, Richard
Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, and Francis Lightfoot Lee, esqrs. be, and they
are hereby, appointed delegates to represent this colony in general Congress
for one year, from the 11th of August next.
“Resolved, That any three of the said delegates be a sufficient number to
represent this colony in the said general Congress.
A copy: JOHN TAZEWELL, Clk. Conv.”
The committee to whom the letter from Mease & Caldwell was referred,
brought in their report, which was taken into consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That 500 lb. of gun-powder be delivered to the said Mease and
Caldwell, for the purpose of procuring deer-skins, to make breeches for the
soldiery in the service of the tº. States; they to be accountable.
That the secret committee be directed to fall upon proper ways and means
of procuring a further supply of deer-skins, for the like purpose, from Georgia
and South-Carolina.
The committee, to whom was referred the letter from Harriot Temple, brought
in a report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That, upon the said Harriot’s producing to the quarter-master
general, an account of the trees which were cut down upon the '. of Robert
Temple, esq. for the purpose of supplying the continental army with wood for
firing, or for the purposes of fortifications, so far as from the nature of the cir-
cumstances such destruction can be ascertained by her, the quarter-master
general of the continental army, shall make her a just compensation for the
same, in such manner as other persons have been paid, who have supplied the
army with wood for these purposes; and the quarter-master general, in his
accounts, shall be allowed #. the same by this Congress.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee for enquiring
into, and rectifying, the defects in the powder, manufactured for the United
States; and, thereupon,
Resolved, That there be an inspector or inspectors sufficiently qualified to
judge the goodness of gun-powder, who shall examine every cask of gun-pow-
der manufactured, or to be purchased on account of the United States, by the
most approved method of ascertaining the quality of gun-powder, the said in-
spector or inspectors to receive one-eighth part of a dollar for every hundred
weight of powder he or they shall so examine:
That no gun-powder be received into the public magazine for the use of the
United States of America, or delivered from the powder-mills for that purpose,
but such as has been approved of by the public inspector, as to its quickness
in firing, strength, dryness, and other necessary qualities:
That the inspector mark each cask approved, with the letters U. S. A. and
such other marks as are necessary to distinguish the several sorts of gun-
owder:
p That every maker of gun-powder, mark every cask, in which he shall pack
his gun-powder, with the first letters of his name:
That gun-powder be put into no casks but such as are well seasoned and dry :
That it be recommended to the legislatures of the several states of America,
to cause suitable inspectors to be appointed, to examine and determine the
Journ ALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 459

—-T’
uality of all gun-powder manufactured within their jurisdiction, and that no
q y gun-p tured in any of the states
jº be allowed to vend any gun-powder, manufacture *
ºf America, unless the same, in the judgment of such inspector, shall be of
sufficient quality; and to make such laws for executing this, or any other regul-
lations for promoting the manufacture of good gun-powder, as to them may
seem most convenient.
Congress then proceeded to the election of an inspector of £"P"
and, the ballots being taken,
Robert Towers was chosen.
jºiced, that 500,000 dollars be sent to the pay-master general at New-
York:
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, .August 24, 177 6.
A letter, of the 27th, from R. H. Harrison, the general’s secretary, and one
of the 28th, from general Mercer, both giving an Account of an action on Long-
Island, on the 27th, were read, and referred to the board of War.
A letter, of the 28th, from Richard Dallam, deputy pay-master general for
the flying-camp, was also read ; Whereupon,
fºolied, that an order for 10,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer, in fa-
# Gustavus Risberg, and that the same be charged to the account of Mr.
Dallam :
T. the letter from Mr Dallan be referred to the board of treasury:
It being represented by Dr. Franklin, ºne of the late commissioners to Caº
nada, that Mons. Bernard Mousac de la Marquisit had a commission given to
him by the said commissioners, to be a captain and engineer in one of the regi-
jº tº be raised there, and that he lost his commission, with his baggº” at
Chambly; it was, thereupon,
Resolved, That a new commission be granted to him.
A letter of the 3d, from lord Sterling, was read, and referred to the cannon
committee.
The marine committee having recommended Alpheus Rice tº be first-lieu-
tenant of marines, on board the brig Hamden, commanded by Hoysted Hack-
er, esq.
Resolved, That he be accepted, and a commission granted to him accordingly,
The committee appointed to consider the claims of Canadians, who have
been in the service of the continent, reported,
That Samuel Morrison, whº appears, by the certificates of lieutenant-colo;
nels Williams and Brown, to have been at the siege of Quebec two months and
six days, and to have rendered essential service in several capacities, and had
been promised a commission of captain, which he never received, be allowed
the sum of 40 dollars, in full for his said services:
That the petition of Hardouen Merlet, for a pension, in consideration of his
services, not being supported by any certificate, as a voucher relating to such
services, no allowance can, at present, properly be made to him ;
That there be paid to Francis Bourignon, the sum of 451-3 dollars, due to
him for his service, as a private, three months, and as a serjeant, four months
in cºlonel IIazen's and colonel Brown's regiments: ſ
º º º being read, was agreed to.
º: ºn general Lee, at Charleston, with an intercepted
esolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to provide proper clothing f
in “ & lº * ng for
German battalion, and also for the two V. ... on their i.".
New-York, ti * ; in .s.
by sº." cost of which clothing to be deducted out of the pay of the men
der;
460 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to provide proper arms for
the German battalion; and, in case they cannot otherwise provide arms, that
they be empowered to apply to this purpose those ordered to be put into the
hands of the marines :
That the said committee be directed to deliver to Mr. James Mease the bale
of clothes in their possession, for the public service, he to be accountable.
That the said committee be directed to import the medicines ordered by the
medical committee.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Joseph Sheerer, for account of captain Cowden, for 608 rations due to his
company of militia, at the time of their march from Lancaster county, on their
way to New-Jersey, 54 4-90 dollars:
To Joseph Sheerer, for account of captain James Murray, for 700 rations due
to his company of militia, at the time of their march from Lancaster county, on
their way to New-Jersey, 61 20-90 dollars:
To Richard Chiney, ; 1311 meals, supplied the militia on their march to
New Jersey, 122 66-90 dollars:
To David Jones, for his pay as chaplain to the 3d and 4th Pennsylvania bat-
talions, from the 13th of June to the 29th of August, inclusive, 8440-90 dollars:
To Josiah Fessenden, for services as an express, including horse-hire and tra-
welling expenses, 89 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That George Measam, esq. be continued in the office of superin-
tendent, commissary º stores, except artillery stores, for the northern army,
with the pay of 33 1-3 dollars per month.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to devise ways and means
of regulating the post-office, and of establishing advice-boats between the south-
ern colonies and Philadelphia, so as to facilitate and expedite the conveying in-
telligence from one part of the continent to another :
The members chosen, Mr. Heyward, Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Morris.
Resolved, That the letter enclosed in that of general Lee’s, of the 2d, and
which was found on Long-Island, in South-Carolina, be published.
A letter from Monsieur Le Chevalier Saurelle was read, and referred to the
board of war.
Itesolved, That the committee to whom the plan of treatics, with the amend-
ments, was re-committed, be empowered to prepare such farther instructions
as to them shall seem proper, and make report thereof to Congress.
he several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, August 30, 1776.
A letter of the 29th, from general Washington, and one of the 22d, from go-
vernor Trumbull, were read.
Resolved, That the letter from governor Trumbull be referred to the board
of treasury.
Resolved, That the duck, in the hands of Mr. Green, at Rhode-Island, be
made up into tents, and forwarded, with all possible expedition, togen. Wash-
ington. i
ºwa, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to purchase all the linen in this
city, suitable for tents, and have the same made up, as soon as possible, and re-
port to Congress immediately the quantity thatcan be procured.
A memorial from David White, of the county of Somerset, in New-Jersey,
was presented to Congress, and read ; Whereupon,
Itesolved, That, from the state of facts in the said memorial, Congress have
no objection to Mr. White's being excused from bearing arms, but remit the
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 464
*— — ...—- -º-º-º-º:
**-
same to the assembly of New-Jersey, to whom the enquiry and determination
9ſ.
*...".m. Mr. Kosciusko was read and referred to the board of war.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on governor
Trumbull’s letter of the 19th of July, and, after debate, the report was re-com-
mitted for the purpose of stating the facts and, circumstanges which induced
governor Trumbull to stop the vessels going out of the sound. . *
The committee for regulating the post-office, brought in their report, which
was taken into consideration ; Whereupon, ... º
Resolved, That the communication of intelligence with frequency and des-
patch, from one part to another of this extensive continent, is essentially re-
quisite to its safety; that, therefore, there be employed on the public post-
roads, a rider for every twenty-five or thirty miles, whose business it shall be,
to proceed through his stage three times in every week, setting out immediate .
ly on receipt of the mail, and travelling with the same, by night and by day,
without stopping, until he shall have delivered it to the next rider; and that the
post-master general be desired, either by the use of way-bills, or by such other
means as he shall find most efficacious, to prevent delays in the riders, or to dis-
cover where they happen, that such dilatory riders be discharged. . .
And, as it is requisite that the deputy post-masters should attend with punc-
tuality at their several offices for the receipt and delivery of letters,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the assemblies and conventions of these
states, to consider how far it may be consistent with the policy and the good of
their respective states, to excuse such deputy post-masters from those public
duties, which may call them from attendance at their offices, and to proceed
therein as to their wisdom shall seem best.
Resolved, That three advice-boats be established; one to ply between the
state of North-Carolina, and such port as shall be most convenient to the place
at which the Congress shall be sitting; one other between the state of South-
Carolina and the said port, and one other between the state of Georgia and the
same port; that such advice-boats be armed, and put under the direction of the
secret committee, who are empowered to freight them with such merchandises
or commodities; as, without retarding their passage, may, together with the
usual postage on letters, and other papers transmitted by them, contribute to
defray the expenses of the said boats.
The convention of New-York having represented that, for want of black-
Smiths, they are greatly delayed in obstructing the passage of Hudson’s river,
in the Highlands, which is an object of great importance:
Resolved, That the convention of New-York be empowered to employ, for
the purpose aforesaid, the blacksmiths that are now engaged in building the
continental frigates at Poughkeepsie.
The committee, to whom the petition of William Bell & Co. was referred,
brought in their report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That it be recommended to governor Trumbull to permit the sloop
Freemason, Epaphros Mygat, master, with her cargo, belonging to the peti-
tioners, to proceed on her voyage to the island of St. Eustatia, so soon as the
said master shall judge she may sail without falling into the hands of the enemy
on the coast.
The Committee appointed to enquire into the claims of sundry Canadians,
report, that there is due,
º Iſo Andrew Pepin, for two months’ services as a captain, and 6 months’ ser-
vices as a lieutenant, together with rations during the time of his said services,
201 dollars and 1-3d :
To James Pellieur, for five months’ services as a private, and three months’
servises as a lieutenant, together with one ration a day, during the said three
months, 99 dollars and 1-3ü.
462 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The committee on the treasury reported, that there is due, -
To Melchior Meng, for wagon and horse-hire, carrying money to New-York,
escorted by Mr. Fullerton and others, the sum of 28 dollars and 4-90ths:
To John Bates, for 150 camp-kettles, delivered to Clement Biddle, deputy
quarter-master general, 200 dollars: --
To Jacob Hilzheimer, for expresses to Albany, New-York, Boston, Bur-
lington, &c. between the 11th of May and 13th of August, 1776, and for
keeping a continental horse, the sum of 537 dollars and 60-90ths:
To capt. John Thacher, for the pay of his independent company, in the ser-
vice of the United States, at New-York, under general Lee, 405 dollars and
9-90ths :
To George Haas, for conveying money to Albany, 21 days, at 2 dollars, and
expenses of himself, horse-hire and ferriages, 100 dollars and 71-90ths, and
for carriage of captain Gamble's baggage from Philadelphia to Reading, 16
dollars; the whole 116 dollars and 71-90ths:
To Robert Jewell, 333 dollars and 62-90ths, viz. for his account for enter-
taining prisoners in gaol, from the 23d of July to the 20th of August, inclusive,
234 dollars and 60-90ths; for his account for entertaining ten deserters, from
the 23d of July to the 20th of August, 42 dollars and 85-90ths, and his ac-
count for making three pine tables, two pine desks, a book case, sign-board,
&c. for treasury board, 61 dollars and 69-90ths:
To William Clayton, for 303 meals of victuals supplied the militia on their
march to New-Jersey, 30 dollars and 27-90ths:
To Thomas Cheesman, for carriage of 82 cwt. 1 lb. 3 q s. salt petre, from
Egg-harbor to Cooper’s ferry, opposite to Philadelphia, 22 déllars and 52-90ths:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, August 31, 1776.
A letter, of the 25th, from major-general Schuyler at Albany, was laid before
Congress, and read.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, September 2, 1776.
A letter, of the 31st of August, from general Washington, enclosing the
determination of a council of war, and the reasons for quitting Long-Island,
and a copy of a letter from lord Sterling:
Also, one of the 23d, from general Gates, with sundry papers enclosed ; one
from sundry field officers in the army at Ticonderoga, dated the 19th of August,
with the proceedings between a court-martial and brigadier-general Arnold :
Also, a letter of the 23d, from captain John Nelson, and one from Benjamin
Harrison, jun. deputy pay-master general, with his weekly account, were read,
and referred to the board of war.
Congress being informed, that gen. Sullivan was come to Philadelphia, with
a design to communicate a message from lord Howe,
Ordered, That he be admitted, and heard before Congress.
A petition from Michael Fitzgerald; one from John Weitzel, and one from
James Paul Govert, were read, and referred to the board of war.
A petition from Peter Dicthery was read, and referred to the medical com-
mittee. ^
A letter from William Bausman, of Lancaster, was read: Whereupon, .
Itesolved, That an order for 1338 1-3 dollars be drawn on the treasurer, in
favor of the committee of Lancaster, for defraying the expenses of the barracks
ordered to be built in that borough ; the said committee to be accountable.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 463
Resolved, That an order for 4577 63-90 dollars be drawn on the treasurer,
in favor of Francis Lewis, esq. and charged to the account of Jonathan Trum-
bull, deputy pay-master general ; the same being for so much paid by Mr.
Lewis’s order to the said J. Trumbull.
A memorial from Francis Guillot was read, and referred to the marine com-
mittee. le
The committee to whom was recommitted the report for ascertaining the
value of the several species of gold and silver coins current in these states,
and the proportion they and each of them ought to bear to Spanish milled
dollars, brought in their report, which was read :
Ordered, 'I o lie on the table.
A petition from the officers of the 1st and 2d Virginia battalion, was read
and referred to the board of war.
Resolved, That an order for 30,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer, in
avor of J. Mease, for the public service; he to be accountable.
General Sullivan being admitted, delivered a verbal message he had in
charge from lord Howe, which he was desired to reduce to writing, and then
withdrew.
Resolved, That an order for 120,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer, in
favor of the delegates of Rhode-Island, and charged to the account of that
state, to be accounted for.
Congress being informed that Donald MºDonald, who was sent to this city
from North Carºlina, is considered by lord Howe as a brigadier-general in the
service of his Britannic majesty;
Resolved, That he be admitted to his parole, and liberated upon signing the
form prescribed by Congress. g
A petition from Anthony Mosengill, was read, and referred to the assembly
of the state of New-Jersey.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to prepare and bring in a plan
ef military operations for the next campaign.
Resolved. That the continental agents be empowered to inspect or appoint
some suitable person or persons, to inspect all gun-powder manufactured or
purchased in, or imported into the respective states, wherein they reside, on
account of the United States; exceptin those states where an inspector is ap-
pointed by Congress.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Robert Erwin, wagon-master, for the hire of wagons going to Egg-harbor
for powder, viz. Adam Weaver, Joseph Champeney, Michael Grossman, Israel
Fry, Jacob Hindman and George Raser, one trip each, and David Boxe, Wil-
liam Park and Alexander Miller, two trips each, making twelve trips, allowing
five days to each, at 4 dollars a day, 240 dollars: &º
To captain James Sterling, 664 14-90 dollars, being the balance of his ac-
count for the expense of a guard appointed to convey a number of British
Prisoners from Burlington to Lancaster, and Frederick county in Maryland,
with Wagon and horse-hire, amounting to 1464 14-90 dollars, of which sum he
received from the committtee of safety of Pennsylvania, and for which the
are to be credited, July 16th, 1776, 100 dollars; July 17th, 1776, 700 dollars,
and there remains 664 14-90 dollars:
ºrdered, That the said accounts be paid.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. " g postp 3.
TUESDAY, September 3, 1776.
A memorial from colonel Moses Hazen was read and referred to the com-
mittee appointed to enquire into the causes of the miscarriages in Canada.
General Sullivan having reduced to writing the verbal message from lord
Howe, the same was read as follows: *
464 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
—w
“The following is the purport of the message from lord Howe to Congress, by general Sullivan :
“That, though he could not at present treat with Congress as such, yet he
was very desirous of having a conference with some of the members, whom he
would consider for the present only as private gentlemen, and meet them him-
self as such, at such place as they should appoint:
“That he, in conjunction with general Howe, had full powers to compromise
the dispute between Great-Britain and America, upon terms advantageous to
both ; the obtaining of which delayed him near two months in England, and
* his arrival at this place before the declaration of independency took
àCe :
“That he wished a compact might be settled at this time, when no decisive
blow was struck, and neither parly could say, that they were compelled to en-
ter into such agreement:
“That, in case Congress were disposed to treat, many things, which they had
not as yet asked, might and ought to be granted them; and that, if, upon the
conference, they found any probable ground of accommodation, the authority
of Congress must be afterwards acknowledged, otherwise the compact would
not be complete.”
The board of war brought in a report, which was read:
Resolved, That the part of the said report, which relates to the establishing
a post between Philadelphia and Ticonderoga, be referred to the committee for
regulating the post-office, and that the remainder of the report lie on the table:
That two members be added to the said committee:
The members chosen, Mr. Hooper and Mr. Huntington.
Congress proceeded to the election of a regimental pay-master to colonel
Magaw’s battalion; and, the ballots being taken,
John Mifflin, brother to brigadier-general Mifflin, was elected.
Resolved, That Jeduthun Baldwin, esq. be appointed an engineer in the con-
tinental army, with the rank of colonel, and pay of 60 dollars a month.
A letter from a number of officers who are prisoners at Carlisle, was read,
complaining of some ill treatment they have received, and of their baggage
having been plundered, contrary to the capitulation, upon which they sur-
rendered.
General Wooster, who happened to be in the outer room, being examined
touching the facts stated in the said letter;
Resolved, That a letter be written to general Schuyler, directing him to
make particular enquiry whether the baggage of the officers taken at St. John's
and Chambly was plundered, and by whom, and report to Congress:
That the secretary of the board of war be directed to inform the officers,
that enquiry has been made of general Wooster, to whom they refer; respect-
ing the plunder of their baggage, and that he says he knows nothing of the mat-
ter, ...] that no information or complaint was ever made to him respecting
that matter: And farther, to inform them, that Congress have given orders to
general Schuyler to cause strict enquiry to be made into this affair, and re-
port thereon. & tº * * t
A letter, of the 2d, from general Washington, and one from William Pal-
frey, pay-master general, were read.
}. That the letter from general Washington be referred to a com-
mittee of the whole Congress:
Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole; and, after Some
time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Nelson reported, that the colm-
mittee have had under consideration the letter to them referred, and have
come to sundry resolutions, which he was ordered to report.
The resolutions from the committee of the whole, being severally read, Were
agreed to as follows: º
Resolved, That general Washington be acquainted, that Congress would
*
x
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776, 465
-*-
have especial care taken, in case he should find it necessary to quit New-Yºrk,
that no damage be done to the said city by his troops, on their leaving it: The
Congress having no doubt of being able to recover the same, though the enemy
should, for a time, obtain possession of it. &
Resolved, That three more battalions be ordered from Virginia, of which that
commanded by colonel Stephen to be one, to reinforce the army at New-York;
That for the same purpose, two of the North-Carolina battalions be ordered
to march, with all possible expedition, to New-York, under the command of
brigadier-general Moore:
That it be recommended to the assemblies and conventions of the several
states to the northward of Virginia, immediately to send all the aid in their
power to the army at N.Y. : º e
That one of the continental battalions in Rhode-Island be ordered immedi-
ately to march, to reinforce the army at New-York:
That it be recommended to the assembly of Massachusetts-Bay, to send to
Rhode-Island a battalion of their militia, to supply the place of the continent-
al battalion ordered from thence.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, September 4, 1776.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to pay the Virginia battalion, now
on their march to New-York, one month’s pay, and to supply them with such
necessary clothing as they may stand in need of.
Resolved, That another brigadier-general be appointed in the continental
3.TIſ) W 3
º: ballots being taken, colonel Adam Stephen was unanimously elected.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to cail in the several recruit-
ing parties of the German battalion, and to have them formed and armed, with
all possible expedition, and forwarded to New-York, taking measures, and
giving proper directions to have the battalion recruited to the full comple-
ment, as soon as the same can conveniently be done.
Resolved, That the proposal made by general Howe, as delivered by general
Sullivan, of exchanging general Sullivan for general Prescot, and lord Ster-
ling for brigadier-general M*Donald, be complied with.
Mr. J. Mease having, in consequence of the resolution of the 30th August,
made a report, that he cannot find there is any cloth in this city, fit for i.
tents, except a parcel of light sail-cloth, which is in the hands of the marine
committee:
Resolved, That the marine committee be directed to deliver to Mr. J. Mease
all the light sail-cloth in their possession: And that Mr. Mease be directed to
have the same made into tents, as soon as possible, and forwarded to general
Washington: g
That the secret committee be directed to write to the continental agents in
the eastern states, desiring them to purchase all the duck and other cloth fit
for i. which they can procure in their respective states, for the use of the
COIn UllàCl]t. ->
Congress took into consideration the report of the board of war; and, after
Some time spent thereon,
Resolved, That the farther consideration thereof be postponed till to-morrow.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, September 5, 1776.
A petition from John Shott was read, and referred to the board of war.
VoI. I. 59
466 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
Two petitions from the owners of the privateers Lee and Putnam were read,
and referred to the marine committee.
A memorial from Jeremiah Halsey was read, and referred to the board of war.
Resolved, That general Prescot and brigadier-general M*Donald, be sent
by the board of war, under an escort, to general Washington, to be exchanged
for general Sullivan and lord Sterling.
Resolved, That the marine-committee be directed to deliver Mr. Hewes 400
three-pound shot, for the use of the continental troops in North-Carolina.
Two soldiers having escaped from Quebec, and applied to Congress for their
ay,
Resolved, That they be referred to the board of treasury.
A. memorial from captain John Doyle was presented to Congress, and read,
setting forth, that in consequence of the resolution passed the 16th of July
last, he has inlisted 80 men, whereof about 60 have passed muster, as appears
by the roll produced, and that the other 20 are at Lancaster, and, therefore,
lºng that a commission may be granted to him, pursuant to the said resolu-
10I) :
Resolved, That the prayer of the petition be granted; and that Samuel Bra-
dy be commissioned as first-lieutenant, and William M“Murray, second-lieute-
nant of the company commanded by capt. Doyle.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the board of war;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Sullivan be requested to inform lord Howe, that this
Congress, being the representatives of the free and independent states of Ame-
rica, cannot, with propriety, send any of its members to confer with his lord-
ship in their private characters, but that, ever desirous of establishing peace on
reasonable terms, they will send a committee of their body to know whether he
has any authority to treat with persons authorized by Congress for that purpose,
in behalf of America, and what that authority is, and to hear such propositions
as he shall think fit to make respecting the same:
. That the president be desired to write to general Washington, and acquaint
him that it is the opinion of Congress, no proposals for making peace between
Great-Britain and the United States of America ought to be received or attend-
ed to, unless the same be made in writing, and addressed to the representatives
of the said states in Congress, or persons authorized by them: and, if applica-
tion be made to him by any of the commanders of the British forces on that
subject, that he inform them that these United States, who entered into the
war only for the defence of their lives and liberties, will cheerfully agree to
peace on reasonable terms, whenever such shall be proposed to them in manner
aforesaid.
Resolved, That a copy of the first of the two foregoing resolutions be deli.
vered to general Sullivan, and that he be directed to repair immediately to lord
Howe.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for electing the committee:
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow. -- ©
FRIDAY, September 6, 1776.
Resolved, That general Sullivan be requested to deliver to lord Howe the
copy of the resolution given to him.
#esolved, That the committee, “to be sent to know whether lord Howe has
any authority to treat with persons authorized by Congress for that purpose, tº
behalf of America, and what that authority is, and to hear such propositions as
he shall think fit to make respecting the same,” consist of three:
Congress then proceeded to the election; and, the ballots being taken, M*
Franklin, Mr. J. Adams, and Mr. Rutledge, were elected,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 467
f
A letter of the 4th, from general Washington, with sundry papers enclosed ;
One of the 29th August, from general Schuyler;
Four of the 18th, 20th, 26th, and 27th, of the same month, from gen. Gates,
with a return of the army at Ticonderoga, and other papers;
One of the 4th, from brigadier-general Mercer; and
One of the 28th, from colonel Maxwell, enclosing a memorial from Jacobus
Wyncoop, were read. $º.
}ºh, That the memorial from Jacobus Wyncoop be referred to the ma-
rine committee, and that the other letters and papers be referred to the board
of war.
Resolved, That an order for 2794 15-90 dollars be drawn on the treasurer,
in favor of George Morgan, esq. agent for Indian affairs, in the middle depart-
ment; he to be accountable :
That Mr. Morgan be supplied with a copy of the resolutions of Congress, re-
lative to Indian affairs, in the middle department, and a copy of the treaty held
with the Indians at the German-Flats:
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to deliver to capt. Sheerer
6 lb. of powder, and 24 lb. of lead, for the use of two companies of riflemen, to
prove their rifles.
A memorial from George Nicholson, with an account, was read, and referred
to the board of treasury.
A letter from captain William Jenkins was read, praying for leave, on ac-
count of his family affairs, to resign his commission:
Resolved, That leave be granted.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That John Paul Shott, who is well recommended as an experienced
officer, be appointed a captain in the continental army, with directions to raise
a company as soon as possible ; but, as he may be usefully employed immedi-
ately, that he be forthwith sent to general Washington at New-York, and that
a month’s pay be advanced to him.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be referred till to-
In OTroW.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, September 7, 1776.
- A letter of the 16th of August, from the Indian commissioners at Pitts-
burg, enclosing a memorial from Alexander Ross, was read, and referred to
the committee on Indian affairs:
Also, a letter of the 6th, from R. Dallam was read: Whereupon,
".. ºesolved, That an order for 1173 80-90 dollars, be drawn on the treasurer,
in favor of colonel Charles Read, and charged to the account of Richard Dal-
lam, deputy pay-master general, it being in full of a draught in his favor of the
6th instant, by the said R. Dallam : $. zº
**99:009 dollars be sent to R. Dallam, deputy pay-master general, for
the use of the fi Ying-camp and militia; he to be accountable.
A letter of the 5th, from Charles Preston, major of the 26th regiment, a pri-
Someº, Was read, and referred to the board of war.
A letter and memorial of the 29th of August, from William Wild, was read,
and referred to the convention of Pennsylvania. *
The state of Virginia having, on the 23d of July last, appointed William
Brady, *Ptain; William Pile, first lieutenant; and Christopher Brady, se-
cond-lieutenant, in the battalion to be commanded by colonel #. Stevenson,
and Amos Thompson to be chaplain to the said battalion :
Resolved, That commissions be granted to them accordingly.
468 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
Congress proceeded to the election of an adjutant for the battalion ordered
to be raised in Westmoreland county; and, the ballots being taken,
Michael Hoofnagel was elected.
A º from Charles Roberts, master of the schooner Thistle, was pre-
sented to Congress, and read.
Resolved, That Mr. Bartlett, Mr. Stockton, Mr. Stone, Mr. F. L. Lee,
Mr. Penn, and Mr. Walton, be appointed members of the committee on the
cause of the miscarriages in Canada, in the room of those who are absent.
Resolved, That two members be added to the committee appointed on the
24th of July last, to consider the proposal made by the president of South-
Carolina, respecting general Lee, in the room of those who are absent:
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, and Mr. Walton.
Resolved, That an order for 1600 dollars be drawn on the treasurer in favor
of David S. Franks; for which he is to account on the settlement of his accounts.
The state of Rhode-Island having recommended sundry gentlemen for field-
officers of the two battalions raised in that state, Congress proceeded to the
election : when William Richmond and Christopher Lippit were elected co-
lonels; Caleb Gardner and Adam Comstock, lieutenant-colonels; Benjamin
Tallman and James Tew, majors.
Resolved, That the battalion commanded by colonel Lippit be ordered to
New-York, unless that commanded by colonel Richmond has already marched.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to deliver to the delegates of
Maryland, three pieces of coarse cloths, for the use of the Maryland troops;
the said delegates to be accountable.
Resolved, That Mr. Risberg, assistant to colonel Biddle, be directed to take
proper measures for providing the sick soldiers in Philadelphia, with proper
lodgings and attendance.
Å letter from brigadier-general M*Donald to the board of war, was read;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That he be allowed four days to prepare for his journey:
That a copy of that part of his letter, respecting his treatment in North-
Carolina, be sent to the convention of that state.
Resolved, That a copy of the resolutions passed by Congress on the message
brought by general Sullivan, and the names of the committee appointed, be
sent to general Washington.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Richard Welsh, for his services as clerk, for delivering stores and pro-
visions in Canada, certified by Henry Menson, in which service he entered the
24th of April, and was discharged the 7th of June, 1776, at 50-90ths of a
dollar per day, 25 dollars: *
To Casper Carver, for the hire of a team from York-town, in Pennsylvania,
to Williamsburg, in Virginia, 16 days, at 4 dollars a day, 64 dollars; and for
ferriages, 6 6-90 dollars, and for the hire of another team from York-town,
with captain Grier's company, 14 days, at 4 dollars a day, and for ferriage,
3 54-90 dollars; the whole being 129 60-90 dollars :
To John Sparhawk, for two maps, a count-calendar, &c. for the war-office,
as per R. Peters's certificate, 10 60-90 dollars :
To John Bates, for 200 camp-kettles, delivered to C. Biddle, deputy qual-
ter-master general, the 2d instant, 266 60-90 dollars : º
To the following persons, for which a warrant is to be drawn in favor of
Mons. Rouville, for the sum of 788 10-90 dollars, the amount of his six ac-
counts, viz. ge º *
1. To hostages sent by general Schuyler to Reading, in Pennsylvania, name.
ly; Allan M'Donald, sen. Allan M*Donald, jun. Alexander M*Donald, Rennel
Médonald, and Archibald MºDonald, their allowance from the 4th of June to
the 3d of September, both days inclusive, is 18 weeks, at 2 dollars each, is,
* T ~ º
t
* *
• ' *
&
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 469
for the five, 130 dollars, and for Angus M*Donald and George M*Donald, two
servants, 13 weeks each, at one dollar a week, 26 dollars; of which they have
received from the committee of Reading, 27 3-90 dollars; the balance is
128 87-90 dollars:
2. To lieutenant Simon Evans, a prisoner sent from Canada to Reading, for
expenses from Montreal to Albany, 12 dollars; and allowance from the 10th
of February, to the 23d of August, inclusive, is 28 weeks, at 2 dollars a week,
56 dollars; the whole 68 dollars; of which he received from the committee of
Esopus, for 13 weeks’ allowance, 26 dollars; leaves a balance due to lieutenant
Evans, of 42 dollars:
3. To captain Anstruther, of the 26th regiment, for his allowance from the
18th of November, to the 23d of August, both days inclusive, is 40 weeks, at
2 dollars a week, 80 dollars :
4. To Marcus Lucullus Royal, master of the Gaspee, taken the 19th of
November, in the river St. Lawrence, for his allowance to the 22d of August,
is 39 weeks and 4-7ths, at 2 dollars a week, 79 dollars and 13-90ths; of which
he has received from the committee of Esopus, 44 dollars; the balance due to
him is 35 dollars and 13-90ths.
5. To the Canadian prisoners at Bristol, viz. Mons. St. Ours Hervieux,
Heurimont, de Chambault and la Marque, from the 3d of November, the time
they were taken, to the 30th of August, inclusive, 44 weeks each, at 2 dollars,
430 dollars:
6. To George Mºkenzie, mate of the sloop Hunter, taken the 4th of No-
vember, to the 25th of August, inclusive, is 42 weeks, at 2 dollars, 84 dollars;
of which he has received at Albany, 12 dollars; the balance is 72 dollars:
To the following persons, 564 dollars and 85-90ths, namely, to Adam Drink-
house, for his team from Philadelphia to Fredericksburg, in Virginia, 29 days,
at 4 dollars, and ferriage 7 dollars, is 123 dollars; to Martin Hausman, Ber-
nard Keppelar and Nathaniel floo , who went on the same journey with their
teams, each 123 dollars, is 369 dollars; and, to Matthias Koop, for the hire of
his wagon from Philadelphia to Bergen Point, with powder, 9 days, at 4 dollars,
and ferriage, 2 dollars and 85-90ths, is 38 dollars and 85-90ths; and to An-
drew Read, for the hire of his wagon from Philadelphia to New-York, with
medicines, 8 days, at 4 dollars a day, and ferriage, 2 dollars and 50-90ths, is
34 dollars and 50-90ths, and that the same ought to be paid to Robert Erwin,
wagon-master general :
To Joseph Hewes, esq. for cash advanced to the guard going with five wa-
gons to North-Carolina, with wagon-hire, and casks for powder, 140 dollars
and 25-90ths:
To John Dennis, for escorting powder from Egg-harbor to Philadelphia, by
order of the secret committee, 35 dollars and 23-90ths.
To col. Jonas Clapham, for 53 rifle-guns bought of him for the use of col.
Stevenson's rifle-battalion, in Virginia, 896 dollars and 52-90ths; which sum
is to be charged to the said battalion:
Qrdered, That the above accounts be paid.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the board of war;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That all letters to and from the board of war and ordnance, or
§:*ary of the same, be free of all expense in the post-office of the United
€S.
The board having reported, that they have considered the petition of Jere-
miah Halsey, and perused his written evidence, are of opinion, that the said
Halsey Qught to receive the arrears of his pay, and that the resolution of Con-
gress, of the 9th of January last, be repealed: as it appears, that the said Hal-
sey was discharged from the service, upon a regular certificate from the surgeon,
by the commanding officer at St. John's, on account of sickness, on the 13th
470 JOURNALS OF GONGRESS, 1776.
day of November last, in pursuance of the order of general Montgomery; the
Congress agreed to the said report. -
Congress proceeded to fill up the vacancies in the second Pennsylvania bat-
talion ; and, the ballots being taken, Joseph Wood, esq. was elected colonel;
Thomas Craig, esq. was elected lieutenant-colonel, and William Butler, esq.
major.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
{ MONDAY, September 9, 1776.
Resolved, That four months’ pay, being 106 dollars,and 2-3ds, be advanced to
Mons. la Marquisie, captain and engineer in the northern army ; he to be
accountable. Jº
A letter, of the 6th, from general Washington, was read and referred to the
board of war. }
Resolved, That 500,000 dollars be sent to the pay-master general, for the
use of the army at New-York.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to hear the parties on the
appeal against the verdict and sentence of condemnation, passed against the
schooner Thistle and her cargo.
The members chosen, Mr. Stockton, Mr. Huntington, Mr. Paine, Mr. Wil-
son, and Mr. Stone.
Resolved, That in all continental commissions, and other instruments, where,
heretofore, the words “United Colonies” have been used, the stile be altered,
for the future, to the “United States.”
The board of war brought in a report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table, to be taken into consideration to-morrow
morning. -
A memorial from Mons. Pannelier de la Falconniere, was read, and referred
to the marine committee.
Congress proceeded to the election of a quarter-master for the German bat-
talion; and, the ballots being taken,
Frederick Seeger was elected.
Resolved, That an order for 136 dollars be drawn on the treasury, in favor
of George Meade & Co. and charged to the account of Messrs. Chase & Car-
roll, it being in full of their bill, in favor of John Vienne, or order, dated at
Montreal, May 28, 1776.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be empowered to pay the draughts of captain
John Douglass, for such parts of the monthly pay of the privates in his com-
pany, as he shall specify, and the same, as paid, be charged to the account of
the said captain. “v.
The committee of treasury, reported, that there is due to William Smith,
continental druggist, 2490 dollars and 13-90ths:
Ordered, That the same be paid.
Three petitions, one from Pierre du Calvert, another from Jaques Pileur, and
the third from Andre Pepin, were read, and referred to the board of war.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, September 10, 1776.
A letter, of the 8th, from general Washington, with sundry papers enclosed,
was read ; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the president inform general Washington, it was by no means
the sense of Congress, in their resolve of the 3d inst respecting New-York,
that the army, or any part of it, should remain in that city a moment longer
than he shall think it proper for the public service that troops be continued there:
That the letter from the general be referred to the board of war.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 471
4–
A letter, of the 31st of August, from the commissioners of Indian affairs, at
Pittsburg, was read, and referred to the standing committee for Indian affairs.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to supply captain West, of the
Virginia rifle-men, with 40 blankets. º
A petition from Jean Longeay, and two from Seth Warner, with sundry pa"
pers enclosed, were read.
Resolved, That the petitions from colonel Warner, with the papers enclosed,
be referred to the commissioners appointed to audit and settle the accounts
of the army in the northern department.
A letter of the 8th, from M. Tilghman, was read.
Congress took into consideration the report of the board of war, and after
some debate thereon,
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a commit-
tee of the whole, to take into consideration the said report.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to supply the delegates of Mary-
land, with 40 blankets for the use of the troops from that state.
Resolved, That 4,000 dollars be sent to Zebulon Butler, esq. for the use of
the two companies ordered to be raised in the town of Westmoreland; he to
be accountable for the same, and that the money be delivered to and forwarded
by the Connecticut delegates:
That major William Judd be authorized to muster the said companies.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to morrow.
WEDNESDAY, September 11, 1776.
Resolved, That an order for 60,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer, in fa-
vor of Mr. J. Mease, commissary for the public service; he to be accountable.
A letter, of the 7th, from Joseph Trumbull, esq. commissary-general, with
sundry º: enclosed, was read:
Resolved, That it be referred to a committee of three, and that they be di-
rected and empowered to enquire into the conduct of Mr. Livingston, deputy
commissary-general in the northern department:
The members chosen, Mr. Lee, Mr. Hooper and Mr. Sherman.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease, commissary, be directed to provide clothing
and other necessaries, for the first Virginia battalion, now on their march to
New-York.
A memorial from Stephen Pater de la Cossade was read, and referred to the
marine committee:
Also, a memorial from Seth Warner, and one from captains Waite Hopkins
and Gideon Brownson, of colonel Warner's battalion, were read, and referred
to the board of war.
Resolved, That a member be added to the board of war, in the room of colo-
nel Harrison:
The member chosen, Mr. F. L. Lee.
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consid-
eration, the report of the board of war; and, after some time, the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr. Nelson reported, that the committee have taken into
consideration the matter to them .. and made some amendments there-
in, but not having had time to go through the whole, desired leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a commit-
tee of the whole, to take into considération the report of the board of war.
The matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, September 12, 1776.
C A letter of the 31st of August, from J oseph Wentworth to the secretary of
. with an appeal frºm the verdict and sentence passed on the trial of
the brigantine named the Elizabeth, was laid before Congress, and read.
472 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
W
The committee for Indian affairs, to whom the letter, of the 31st of August,
from the commissioners in the middle department, was referred, brought in a
report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That two tons of powder and four tons of lead be immediately
sent to Pittsburg; to be disposed of as the commissioners shall direct:
That the resolution of Congress, respecting the destination of the battalion
commanded by colonel M'Coy, be suspended, and that the commissioners for
Indian affairs in the middle department be empowered, during their stay at
Pittsburg, to direct the operations of that battalion: ^
That the measures adopted by the commissioners, in the present critical situ-
'ation of Indian affairs, is approved of by Congress, who have the greatest
confidence in the prudence and vigilance of their future conduct.
Besolved, That an order for 7000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer, in fa-
vor of colonel M'Coy, for the use of his battalion; he to be accountable.
Resolved, That application be made to the committee of Pennsylvania, for
10,000 flints to be delivered to George Morgan, esq.
The committee, to whom the letter from Joseph Trumbull, esq. with the pa-
pers enclosed, was referred, reported,
“That having considered the same, and recurring to the journal of Congress,
on Mr. Trumbull’s appointment to the commissariat, find the following resolve
on the 8th of July, 1776: “That the commissary-general have full power to
supply both armies, that upon the lakes as well as that at New-York, and also
to appoint and employ such persons under him, and to remove any deputy-com-
missary, as he shall judge proper and expedient; it being absolutely necessary,
that the supply of both armies should be under one direction;” Whereupon,
Resolved, That the above resolution is so clear and explicit, and so well
contrived to procure the due and proper discharge of the commissary’s busi-
ness, that the same ought to be adhered to, and immediately transmitted to the
commanding officer in the northern department, and to the commissary-general,
as the full sense of Congress on the commissary-general’s right to direct the
operations of his department, both as contractor and issuer of provisions; and
that Mr. Trumbull be informed, Congress expect this will remove his difficul-
ties, and induce his continuance in the office of commissary for both armies,
at New-York, and on the lakes.
Congress then proceeded to the election of sundry officers; and the ballots
being taken,
David M'Clure was elected chaplain, and Ephraim Douglass quarter-mas-
ter of the battalion commanded by colonel M'Coy.
John Trumbull, esq. was elected deputy adjutant-general of the army in the
northern department, and Morgan Lewis, esq. deputy quarter-master general
of the said army.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to order the French officers, who
have received commissions from Congress, to repair immediately to the places
of their destination.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to pay the first battalion of Vir-
ginia troops, on their march to New-York, the arrears due to them. *
The committee of treasury, to whom the petition of George Nicholson was
referred, returned the same, and reported, that it ought to be referred to the
board of war:
Resolved, That the said petition be referred to the board of war.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration:
Whereupon,
Resolved, As it appears from colonel Warner’s representation of the state of
his regiment, that major Painter's appointment much obstructs the raising the
said regiment, that, therefore, major Painter be directed to repair to the city of
Philadelphia, that the matter may be enquired into, and that it be recommend-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 473
ed to colonel Warner and the other officers, that they forthwith proceed to
raise their men and complete the regiment, relying on the justice of Congress
for the settlement of the uneasiness among them:
That the militia at New-York, be paid by the pay-master general there, be-
fore discharged.
Resolved, That the remainder of the report be re-committed.
The Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
their farther consideration the report of the board of war; and after some time,
the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Nelson reported, that the committee
have had under consideration the matter to them referred, but not having come
to a conclusion, desire leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a commit-
tee of the whole, to take into consideration the report of the board of war.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to deliver such a number of
blankets, as he has, belonging to the continent, to captain Watkins, for the
use of his company, which is inlisted to serve during the war, not exceeding
one to each man.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, September 13, 1776.
Two letters, of the 7th and 11th, from general Washington ; one of the 8th
from general Green, and a resolution of the committee of safety of Pennsylva-
nia, of the 13th, were read, and referred to the board of war.
The committee appointed to confer with lord Howe, having returned, made a
verbal report.
Ordered, That they make a report in writing, as soon as conveniently they can.
The committee of the treasury reported, that there is due,
To Peter Baker for 1149 rations, supplied colonel Peter Grubb’s battalion of
militia, and 204 meals to different companies of militia, on their march to New-
Jersey, 123 19-90 dollars:
To John Bates for 266 camp-kettles, delivered to Gustavus Risburg, assist-
ant to the deputy quarter-master general for the flying-camp, 354 60-90
dollars:
To Richard Cheny for 291 meals supplied the militia on their march to New-
Jersey, 299-90 dollars:
To Charles Ford for ten weeks’ board, lodging, and washing, for William
Whiting, a wounded serjeant, from the 8th June to 17th August, 10 weeks, at
I 1-3 dollars per week, 13 30-90 dollars:
To major Regonville, capt. Duchene, lieut. Smith, and lieut. Demuraux, Ca-
nadian prisoners, for their allowance from 3d November, 1775, to 6th Septem-
ber, 1776, inclusive, is 44 weeks, at 2 dollars a week, 352 dollars, and that the
same be paid to Mons. Regonville:
To Robert Towers, for artillery stores for two three-pound travelling can-
§. ordered by Joseph Hewes, esq. for the state of North-Carolina, 72 64-90
O118.TS :
To Graaf, MºClenachan, Hollingsworth, and Grigson, for which a warrantis
to be drawn in favor of the hon. Thomas Lynch, esq. for his expenses to and
from Williamsburg, with the hire of a wagon, with money for South-Carolina,
sº º dollars:
o Joseph Beck going express from Philadelphia :------> º
1-6 of a dollar, 56 i. iiars: press from Philadelphia to Virginia, 340 miles, at
a...","...". for five days’ use of his two-horse wagons, in
º TÜll] g the Sick troops i - & • avºr ºn 2
tºº dollars: ps in New-Jersey, of captain Brown’s company,
o Frederick Bicking, for 221 reams e
6 84-90 dollars area.m. iś234.90 i. paper for continental currency, at
Vol. I. 66)
474 f
* JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
- ** -- ~ * ~
To William Clayton, for 338 meals of victuals, supplied the militia on their
march to New-Jersey, 32 72-90 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Two letters of the 8th, from general Schuyler, with sundry papers enclosed;
one of the 7th, from Walter Livingston, and one of the 12th of August, from
brigadier-general Armstrong, were read: ‘
‘dered, That the foregoing letters, with the papers enclosed in that from
general Schuyler, except what relates to general Montgomery’s accounts, be
referred to the board of war, and that the papers relative to the said accounts
be referred to the board of treasury.
Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take into con-
sideration the report of the board of war; and, after some time, the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr. Nelson reported, that the committee have had under
consideration the matter referred to them, but not having yet come to a conclu-
sion, desired leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into consideration the report of the board of war.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, September 14, 1776. º
A letter from R. H. Harrison, secretary to general Washington, was read.
Four French officers, who arrived in the Reprisal, captain Weeks, being re-
commended to Congress,
Resolved, That they be referred to the board of war.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
... Resolved, That the officers of militia, when on their march, and while in ser-
vice, be allowed rations like the officers on the continental establishment, with-
out any allowance of mileage:
That the commander in chief in the northern army be directed to erect bar-
racks, and other accommodations, in the most convenient places in that depart-
ment, and provide magazines of straw, fuel, and other necessaries for winter-
quarters, for such number of troops as he shall think proper:
That general Schuyler be informed that his letter of the 16th of last month
was duly received, and referred to the committee appointed to enquire into the
causes of the miscarriages in Canada:
That captain Martindale and lieutenant Turner be allowed their pay and ra-
tions to this time, and that they be referred to the treasury-board for a settle-
ment of their accounts : *
That 15 tons of powder, 20,000 flints, ten tons of lead, and 100 reams of car-
tridge-paper, be immediately sent to general Gates, for the use of the army in
the northern department:
That brigadier-general Armstrong have leave to return from South-Carolina
to Philadelphia:
That deputy-commissary. Livingston's resignation be accepted :
That captains Wait Hopkins and Gideon Brownson be referred to the com-
missioners appointed to audit accounts in the northern department, for a settle-
ment of their accounts: & -
That all continental troops and militia, going home from service, restore all
continental arms and other property, and also all ammunition, remaining in
their possession, at the time of their being about to return. Their pay to be
withheld unless they produce certificates from the commissary of stores, or
quarter-master general, or their deputies in the department where such conti-
mental troops or militia shall serve....And, if any continental property, or am:
munition be carried away by the militia, before this resolve, stoppages to be
made from such as have not received their pay, and that measures be taken with
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 475
those who have been paid by the councils of safety, or legislatures of each state,
or the restoration of such continental property and ammunition. g f
A memorial from Jonathan Glover was read, and referred to the marine com-
mittee.
A letter of the 9th, from general Lee to the board of war, was laid before
Congress and read.
A petition from captains Joseph Gardner, James M'Dowell, John M*Dowell,
Samuel Evans, Ephraim Blackburn, and Stephen Cochran, was read. g
Resolved, That 25,000 dollars be advanced to the state of Maryland, which
is to be accountable for the same.
The committees of Westmoreland and Bedford, having, in pursuance of the
resolution of Congress of the 15th July, recommended Van Swearingan, Moses
Carson, Samuel Miller, James Piggot, Wendal Oury, David Killgore, Eliezer
Miers, and Andrew Mann, for captains in the regiment commanded by colonel
M'Coy; and Robert Mosely, John Finley, Matthew Jack, Ezekiel Hickman,
Richard Carson, William M. Greary, James M*Dowell, and Thomas Cook, for
first lieutenants; William Thompson, Alexander Sumrall, James Guthery, Phi-
lip Rodgers, Samuel Smith, William Mountz, James Buler, jun., and John
Crawford, for second lieutenants; Benjamin Neely, Joseph Kerr, John Sims,
David Wherry, Devalt Mecklin, Feolty Weaver, John Read, and Aquila
White, for ensigns in the said battalion :
Resolved, That they be accepted, and that commissions be granted to them
accordingly.
Whereas the delegates of South-Carolina have represented, that, by an ar-
rangement made by Congress, on the 18th day of June last, the regiment of ar-
tillery and two regiments of riflemen, raised in that province, will obtain prece-
dency over a regiment of rangers, though the latter was raised before either of
the former, which may be attended with consequences extremely prejudicial to
the service: therefore,
Resolved, That the said regiment of rangers, commanded by colonel Wil-
liam Thompson, do still keep the same station it had in the provincial arrange-
ment, and be entitled to rank in the same way as other regiments in the conti-
nental service.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, September 16, 1776.
A letter, of the 14th, from general Washington, one of the 9th, from gene-
ral Schuyler, enclosing a copy of one from general Gates, dated the 6th, and
one, of the 2d, from general Gates, with sundry papers enclosed, were read,
and referred to the board of war.
A letter, of the 2d, from general Schuyler, was also read:
Ordered, That this be referred to the committee on Indian affairs.
There being sundry vacancies in colonel Warner’s battalion, Congress pro-
ceeded to the election of officers to fill up the same; and, the ballots being taken,
John Fasset and — M*Une were elected captains in the room of John
Grant and Jacob Worsborough, who have declined to accept their commissions,
on account of their ill-state of health;
... Joseph Safford, Thomas Ranson, John Chipman, and Robert Terrence, first
lieutenants in the room of —Dean, deceased, Woolbridge and Allen
who decline serving, and J. Fassett promoted; Benjamin Hopkins, adjutant.
. Resolved, That there be an addition of three brigadiers-general in the con-
inental army, and that Congress proceed immediately to the choice:
The ballots being taken, Christopher Gadsden, William Moultrie, and Lach-
lan M*Intosh, were elected.
A letter, of the 31st of August, from brigadier-general Lewis, and one of
*
476 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
ºrg-- ~~~
the 30th of the same month from William Rickman, director of the hospital
in the southern department, were read:
Ordered, That the letter from W. Rickman, be referred to the medical
committee.
Resolved, That 50,000 dollars be advanced to the delegates of Georgia, for
the use of the continental troops in that state, the said delegates to be ac-
countable.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for appointing commissioners to audit
the public accounts in Virginia.
It being represented by the delegates of North-Carolina, that, from late ac-
counts, it appears, that the situation of affairs in that state is such, as to render
it dangerous, if not impracticable, to execute the resolution of Congress of the
3d instant, ordering two of the North-Carolina battalions, under the command
of brigadier-general Moore, to march to reinforce the army at New-York;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That it be left to the discretion of the council of safety of North-
Carolina, to execute or suspend that resolution, according as they shall think
it most conducive to the public service, and the safety of their particular state.
Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
consideration the report of the board of war; and, after some time, the pre-
sident resumed the chair, and Mr. Nelson reported, that the committee have
had under consideration the report from the board of war, and have made sun-
dry amendments, which they ordered him to lay before Congress:
Congress then took into consideration the report of the board of war, and,
the amendments offered by the committee of the whole; and, thereupon, came
to the following resolutions:
That eighty-eight battalions be inlisted as soon as possible, to serve during
the present war, and that each state furnish their respective quotas in the fol-
lowing proportions, viz.
New-Hampshire, tº 3 battalions. Delaware, wº 1 battalion,
Massachusetts-Bay, - 15 do. Maryland, tº 8 do.
Rhode-Island, tº 2 do. Virginia tº 15 do.
Connecticut, sº 8 do. North-Carolina, *} 9 do.
New-York, ºg 4 do. South-Carolina, *g 6 do.
New-Jersey, sº 4 do. Georgia, gº 1 do.
Pennsylvania, wº 12 do.
That twenty dollars be given as a bounty to each non-commissioned officer
and private soldier, who shall inlist to serve during the present war, unless
sooner discharged by Congress:
That Congress make provision for granting lands, in the following propor-
tions: to the officers and soldiers who shall so engage in the service, and con-
tinue therein to the close of the war, or until discharged by Congress, and to
the representatives of such officers and soldiers as haſ be slain by the enemy:
Such lands to be provided by the United States, and whatever expense shall
be necessary to procure such land, the said expense shall be paid and borne by
the states in the same proportion as the other expenses of the war, viz.
To a colonel, 500 acres; to a lieutenant-colonel, 450; to a major, 400; to a
captain, 300; to a lieutenant, 200; to an ensign, 150; each non-commissioned
officer and soldier, 100:
That the appointment of all officers, and filling up vacancies, (excepting
general officers) be left to the governments of the several states, and that every
state provide arms, clothing, and every necessary for its quota of troops, ac,
cording to the foregoing estimate: The expense of the clothing to be deducted
from the pay of the soldiers, as usual :
That all officers be commissioned by Congress:
That it be recommended to the several states, that they take the most spee-
dy and effectual measures for inlisting their several quotas:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 477
—º-º-º:
That the money to be given for bounties be paid by the pay-master in the
department where the soldier shall inlist:
hat each soldier receive pay and subsistence from the time of inlistment.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Adam Zantzinger, for the expense of five light-horse escorting money to
New-York, and one from thence to Albany, 94 64-90 dollars:
To John Bates, for 300 camp-kettles delivered to Gustavus Risberg, 400
dollars :
To Philip Baker, for 289 meals of victuals, supplied captains Grier and
Nelson’s companies of continental troops, 1831-90 dollars:
To David Tryon, William Green, Peter Peterson, George Landers, and
Samuel Brush, for the hire of their shallops, with continental troops and bag-
gage, from Wilmington to Trenton, 104 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for taking into consideration the ar-
ticles of war.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, September 17, 1776.
A letter of the 23d of August, from V. De Coetry Prejent, was read, and re-
ferred to the marine committee.
The state of Maryland having recommended Thomas Beale, esq. to be cap-
tain ; Peter Contee Hanson first-lieutenant; James Lingan second-lieutenant,
and Richard Dorsey third-lieutenant, in colonel Stevenson’s battalion; and Eli.
jah Evans to be a third-lieutenant in the said battalion, in the room of Henry
Hardman, who has resigned,
* ſºlº That they be accepted, and commissions granted to them accord-
Ingly.
The committee appointed to confer with lord Howe, agreeable to the order
of Congress, brought in a report in writing, which was read as follows:
“In obedience to the orders of Congress, we have had a meeting with lord
Howe., . It was on Wednesday last, upon Staten-island, opposite to Amboy,
where his lordship received and entertained us with the utmost politeness.
“His lordship opened the conversation, by acquainting us, that, though he
Could not treat with us as a committee of Congress, yet, as his powers enabled
him to confer and consult with any private gentlemen of influence in the co-
lonies, on the means of restoring peace between the two countries, he was
glad of this opportunity of conferring with us on that subject, if we thought
ourselves at liberty to enter into a conference with him in that character. We
9bserved to his lordship, that, as our business was to hear, he might consider us
in what light he pleased, and communicate to us any propositions he might be
authorized to make for the purpose mentioned; but that we could consider
ourselves in no other character than that in which we were placed, by order of
Congress. His lordship then entered into a discourse of a considerable length,
which contained no explicit proposition of peace, except one, namely, that the
colonies should return to their allegiance and obedience to the government of
Great-Britain. The rest consisted principally of assurances, that there was
an exceeding good disposition in the king and his ministers to make that go.
vernment easy to Ms. With intimations, that, in case of our submission, they
would cause the offensive acts of parliament to be revised, and the instructions
to governors tº be reconsidered; that so, if any just causes of complaint
were found in the acts, or any errors in government were perceived to have
crept into the instructions, they might be amended or withdrawn.
. “We gave it as our opinion to his lordship, that a return to the domina-
tion of Great-Britain was not now to be expected. We mentioned the re-
478 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
peated humble petitions of the colonies to the king and parliament, which had
been treated with contempt, and answered only by additional injuries; the
unexampled patience we had shown under their tyrannical government, and
that it was not till the late act of parliament which denounced war against us,
and put us out of the king’s protection, that we declared our independence;
that this declaration had been called for by the people of the colonies in ge-
neral ; that every colony had approved of it, when made, and all now consi-
dered themselves as independent states, and were settling, or had settled, their
governments accordingly; so, that it was not in the power of Congress to
agree for them, that they should return to their former dependent state ; that
there was no doubt of their inclination to peace, and their willingness to enter
into a treaty with Great-Britain, that might be advantageous to both countries;
that though his lordship had, at present, no power to treat with them as inde-
pendent states, he might, if there was the same good disposition in Britain,
much sooner obtain fresh powers from thence, for that purpose, than powers
could be obtained by Congress, from the several colonies, to consent to a sub-
IſliSSIOH] .
“His lordship then saying, that he was sorry to find, that no accommodation
was like to take place, put an end to the conference.
“Upon the whole, it did not appear to your committee, that his lordship's
commission contained any other authority than that expressed in the act of
parliament, namely, that of granting pardons, with such exceptions as the com-
missioners shall think proper to make, and of declaring America, or any part
of it, to be in the king’s peace, upon submission; For, as to the power of en-
quiring into the state of America, which his lordship mentioned to us, and of
conferring and consulting with any persons the commissioners might think
proper, and representing the result of such conversation to the ministry, who,
provided the colonies would subject themselves, might, after all, or might not,
at their pleasure, make any alterations in the former instructions to governors,
or propose in parliament, any amendment of the acts complained of, we appre-
hended any expectation from the effect of such a power would have been too
uncertain and precarious to be relied on by America, had she still continued
in her state of dependence.” e
Ordered, That the foregoing report, and also the message from lord Howe,
as delivered by general Sullivan, and the resolution of Congress in consequence
thereof, be published by the committee who brought in the foregoing report.
Ordered, That the said committee publish lord Drummond’s letters to general
Washington, and the general’s answers. †
Sundry resolutions being moved and seconded, in addition to those passed
yesterday, relative to the new army: after debate,
Resolved, That they be referred to the board of war.
A letter of the 10th, from brigadier-general Lewis was read ; also, a letter
from James Forrest was read, and referred to the board of war.
Congress took into consideration the plan of treaties to be proposed to foreign
nations, with the amendments agreed to by the committee of the whole ; and
the same was agreed to.
A letter, of the 16th, from general Washington, was received and read.
Resolved, That the consideration of the instructions to be given to the com-
- missioners to foreign states, be postponed till to-morrow.
Ordered, That 1066 2-3-dollars be advanced to Robert Erwin, wagon-mas-
ter general.
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed, after arming the German
battalion, to arm the Maryland company on its march to New-York with the
remainder, or with as many arms as shall then be in their possession, belong-
ing to the continent.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. '
isºt ~~~~
WEDNESDAY, September 18, 1776.
A letter of the 16th, from R. Dallam, deputy pay-master general was read.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That if rations be received by the officers or privates in the conti-
mental army, in money, they be paid at the rate of 8-90ths of a dollar per ration :
That Monsieur Jacque Paul Govert have the rank and pay of a captain-lieu-
tenant of artillery in the continental army, and that a commission be given to
him accordingly:
That the medical committee send an assortment of proper medicines to the
northern army :
That Monsieur Vermonet have the rank and pay of a major by brevet, he be-
ing agentleman of considerable military abilities:
That the bounty and grants of land offered by Congress, by a resolution of
the 16th instant, as an encouragement to the officers and soldiers to engage to
serve in the army of the United States during the war, shall extend to all who
are or shall be inlisted for that term ; the bounty of ten dollars, which any
of the soldiers have received from the continent on account of a former inlist-
. to be reckoned in part payment of the 20 dollars offered by the said re-
solution :
That no officer in the continental army be allowed to hold more than one
commission, or to receive pay but in one capacity at the same time:
Resolved, That the remainder of the report be postponed.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to prepare a resolution for en-
forcing and perfecting discipline in the army.
Ordered, That 1564 45-90 dollars be paid in specie to John Bonfield, and
charged to the account of brigadier-general Arnold, the same being in full of
brigadier-general Arnold’s note of the 11th of May last:
That an order for 1000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer in favor of the com-
mittee appointed to contract for casting cannon; they to be accountable :
That the secret committee furnish the said committee with two barrels of
powder for proving cannon.
Resolved, That captain M*Kenzie, a prisoner in the gaol of Philadelphia, be
liberated on his parole, the state of his . requiring air and exercise; and
that he be ordered to Reading, in Pennsylvania, there to reside under the same
restrictions as other prisoners on their parole.
The committee of treasury brought in a report on the ways and means of
raising five millions of dollars, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Congress took into consideration the instructions to the commissioners, and
after debate, *,
Resolved, That the further consideration thereof be postponed.
The Several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o'clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, September 19, 1776.
. The board of treasury jº. that they have examined the vouchers brought
into their office by Joseph ewes, esq. one of the naval committee, by which it
appears; that the naval committee have expended the sum of 134,333 27-90 dol-
lars in fitting out eight armed vessels.
lººd, That the same be allowed and passed to the credit of the said com-
The naval committee having laid before Congress an account of sundry out-
standing debts, and of sundry; w
g 3. y goods by them purchased, and put into the hands
of different persons who have not yet 㺠for the sº
480 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That the said account be delivered to the marine committee, and
that they be directed to take effectual measures to have the said outstanding
debts collected and accounts settled.
Resolved, That 66 2-3 dollars be advanced to major le chevalier de Vermo-
net; he to be accountable:
That major de Vermonet be referred to the board of treasury, for a settle-
ment of his account for rations:
That 100 dollars be advanced to captain William Davies, of Virginia, for
the use of his company on their march to New-York, he to be accountable.
A petition from captain Woelper, was read :
Ordered, That it be referred to the delegates of Pennsylvania and Mary-
land, who are directed to settle the rank of the captains and subalterns in the
German battalion, and report to Congress.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That Mons. Marquis de Malmady be appointed to the rank and
pay of a major by brevet in the continental army, and receive a commission
accordingly:
That Mons. Jean Louis Imbret, a gentleman well recommended as an engi-
neer, be sent to general Washington to be employed in that capacity, in order
to shew his abilities, and that one months’ pay as a captain be advanced for
his expenses:
That Mons. Christian de Colerus be appointed to the rank and pay of a ma-
jor by brevet, and that his commission be forthwith given him:
That Mons. Jean Louis de Virnejouz be appointed to the rank and pay of a
captain by brevet, and commissioned accordingly:
That the commander in chief of the forces of these states in the several de-
partments, be directed to give positive orders to the brigadier-generals and
colonels, and all other officers in their several armies, that the troops, under
their command, may, every day, be called together, and trained in arms, in
order that officers and men may be perfected in the manual exercise and man-
oeuvres, and inured to the most exemplary discipline, and that all officers be
assured, that the Congress will consider activity and success, in introducing
discipline into the army, among the best recommendations for promotion.
The commissioners for settling the public accounts in the northern army.
having represented to the board of treasury, that sundry officers in the army,
holding two commissions, had, previous to the time of general Schuyler’s re-
ceiving the order of Congress, not to allow pay to any person for more than
one commission, received warrants from the general for payment in their dou-
ble capacity, and desiring to know whether such accounts are to be allowed :
Resolved, That such warrants drawn by general Schuyler, previous to the
time of his receiving the order of Congress, be allowed by the commissioners:
That, to prevent, for the future, warrants being drawn by any general in the
continental army, in favor of any officer, for more than one commission, the
order of Congress be published, that no officer in the continental army is al-
lowed to hold more than one commission, or to receive pay but in one capacity.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Henry Brothers, 54 dollars; George Troxsell, 64 dollars and 72-90ths,
and Jacob Miller, 60 dollars; the whole amounting to 178 dollars and 72-90ths;
to be paid to colonel George Stricker, for the hire of three wagons from Mary-
land to Philadelphia, with the baggage of two field-officers, and two companies
belonging to the German battalion : * ... tº *
To the late colonel Caleb Perry, for provisions supplied the militia on their
march to New-Jersey, with their ferriage, and the ferriage of baggage-wagons
over Schuylkill, 53 i. lars; to be paid to John Jacobs :
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 481
A memorial from the chevalier Dorre, was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of war. º
The committee for Indian affairs brought in a report, which was taken into
consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That 66 dollars and 60-90ths be paid to Jacob Fowler, of the Mon-
tauk tribe of Indians on Long-Island, for his trouble in going to the Mohawk and
Oneida nations of Indians, and for his services whilst he remained amongst them:
That the commanding officers of the several posts, on the frontiers of Vir.
ginia and Pennsylvania, be desired to give the earliest intelligence they can, of
every important occurrence they may have notice of, respecting the Indians,
to the commissioners, or, when they are not in the way, to the agent for Indian
affairs:
That it be recommended to the inhabitants of the frontiers, and to the of-
ficers at all the posts there, to treat the Indians, who behave peaceably and in-
offensively, with kindness and civility, and not to suffer them to be ill-used or
insulted :
That 400 dollars be paid to the agent for Indian affairs, in the middle depart-
ment, for expenditures, and be accounted for by him:
That the orders drawn by the commissioners for Indian affairs in the middle
department, on the committee for Indian affairs, for =9 1104 17 73, Pennsylvania
currency, and for £73 09, of like money, being 3141 dollars and 10-90ths,
the cost of sundry merchandise bought by the agent for the Indians; the for-
mer payable to James Heron, and the other to James Heron and James Bavard,
be accepted, and that the money be paid by the treasurer of the United States:
That a talk be delivered to the chiefs and warriors of the Shawanese Indians,
now in Philadelphia, to be communicated by them to their nation, in these words:
The United States of America, to their Brethren, the Chiefs and Warriors of thc Shawanese Nation.
“We have heard from you by Mr. Morgan, our agent, and are much pleased
with your reception of him into your towns, and with your answers to our
messages by him. We expect that you and our commissioners will shortly
meet in council at Pittsburg, when we hope our old friendship will be renewed,
and such a peace established between us, as will last forever.
“Our young brothers, Wenthissicia and Pellawa, have visited their white
brethren i. in company with Mr. Morgan. They can tell you that we keep
our roads clear of thorns and briars, and open for all our Indian brethren, who
think proper to visit us. We shall always be pleased to see our brothers, the
Shawanese, and our brothers of every other Indian nation. We wish to see
some of their wise men at our great council-fire, which we preserve bright and
clear for all nations.”
As it may be a means of conciliating the friendship of the Canadian Indians,
or, at least, of preventing hostilities from them in some measure, to assist the
president of Dartmouth college, in New-Hampshire, in maintaining their youth
who are now there, under his tuition, and whom the revenues of the college are
not, at this time, sufficient to support; that, for this purpose, 500 dollars be paid
to the Rev. Dr. Eleazer Wheelock, president of the said college.
Resolved, That the adjutants of regiments in the continental army be allow-
ed the pay and rations of captains, and have the rank of first lieutenants.
º Congress resumed the consideration of the articles of war; and, after some
time, the farther consideration thereof was postponed.
Ordered, That the secret committee supply the state of New-Jersey with one
ton of powder; the said state to be accountable.
The several matters to this day referred being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
Wor, F. 6]
\
482 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
"FRIDAY, September 20, 1776.
A letter of the 18th, from general Washington, and one of the 13th, from the
general assembly of Massachusetts-Bay, enclosing sundry papers, were read.'
Ordered, That the letter from the assembly of Massachusetts-Bay be referred
to the marine committee.
In order to prevent the officers and soldiers, who shall be entitled to the lands
hereafter to be granted by the resolution of Congress of the 16th, from dispos-
ing of the same, during the war,
Resolved, That Congress will not grant lands to any person or persons,
claiming under the assignment of an officer or soldier.
Ordered, That the medical committee forward 300 lb. of Peruvian bark to
the southern department, for the use of the troops there.
Congress resumed the consideration of the articles of war, which, being de-
bated by paragraphs, were agreed to, as follows:
Resolved, That fºom and after the publication of the following articles, in the
respective armies of the United States, the rules and articles by which the said
armies have heretofore been governed, shall be, and they are, hereby repealed.
SECTION I.
Jlrticle 1. That every officer who shall be retained in the army of the Unit-
ed States, shall, at the iime of his acceptance of his commission, subscribe these
rules and regulations.
Jirt 2. It is earnestly recommended to all officers and soldiers diligently to
attend divine service: and all officers and soldiers who shall behave indecently,
or irreverently, at any place of divine worship, shall, if commissioned officers,
be brought before a general court-martial, there to be publicly and severely re-
primanded by the president; if non-commissioned officers or soldiers, every per-
son so offending shall, for his first offence, forfeit 1-6th of a dollar, to be de-
ducted out of his next pay; for the second offence, he shall not only forfeit a
Hike sum, but be confined for twenty-four hours; and, for every like offence;
shall suffer and pay in like manner; which money, so forfeited, shall be applied
to the use of the sick soldiers of the troop or company to which the offender
belongs. v < * &4
Arts. Whatsoever non-commissioned officer or soldier shall use any prophane
oath or execration, shall incur the penalties expressed in the foregoing article ;
and if a commissioned officer be thus guilty of prophane cursing or swearing,
he shall forfeit and pay, for each and every such offence, two-thirds of a dollar.
.Art. 4. Every chaplain who is commissioned to a regiment, company, troop,
or garrison, and shall absent himself from the said regiment, company, troop,
or garrison, (excepting in case of sickness or leave of absence) shall be brought to
a court-martial, and be fined not exceeding one month’s pay, besides the loss
of his pay during his absence, or be discharged, as the said court-martial shall
judge most proper.
SECTION II.
JArt. 1. Whatsoever officer or soldier shall presume to use traiterous or disre-
spectful words against the authority of the United States in Congress assem-
bled, or the legislature of any of the United States in which he may be quartered,
if a commissioned officer, he shall be cashiered; if a non-commissioned officer
or soldier, he shall suffer such punishment as shall be inflicted upon him by the
sentence of a court-martial. e
...ſlrt. 2. Any officer or soldier who shall behave himself with contempt or disre-
spect towards the general, or other commander in chief of the forces of the Unit;
ed States, or shall speak words tending to his hurt or dishonor, shall be punished
according to the nature of his offence, by the judgment of a court-martial.
Jłrt. 3. Any officer or soldier who shall begin, excite, cause or join, in any
mutiny or sedition, in the troop, company or regiment to which he belongs, or
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 483
—-ºr-
in any other troop or company in the service of the United States, or in any
part, post, detachment or guard, on any pretence whatsoever, shall suffer death,
or such other punishment as by a court-martial shall be inflicted.
JArt. 4. Any officer, non-commissioned officer, or soldier, who, being present
at any mutiny or sedition, does not use his utmost endeavor, to suppress the
same, or coming to the knowledge of any intended inutiny, does not, without
delay, give information thereof to his commanding officer, shall be punished by
a court-martial with death, or otherwise, according to the nature of the offence.
Jirt. 5. Any officer or soldier who shall strike his superior officer, or draw,
or shall lift up any weapon, or offer any violence against him, being in the ex-
ecution of his office, on any pretence whatsoever, or shall disobey any lawful
command of his superior officer, shall suffer death, or such other punishment
as shall, according to the nature of his offence, be inflicted upon him by the
sentence of a court-martial.
SECTION III.
Jłrt. 1. Every non-commissioned officer and soldier, who shall inlist him-
self in the service of the United States, shall at the time of his so inlisting, or
within six days afterwards, have the articles for the government of the forces
of the United States read to him, and shall, by the officer who inlisted him, or
by the commanding officer of the troop or company into which he was inlisted,
be taken before the next justice of the peace, or chief magistrate of any city or
town-corporate, not being an officer of the army, or, where recourse cannot be
had to the civil magistrate, before the judge-advocate, and, in his presence,
shall take the following oath, or affirmation, if conscientiously scrupulous about
taking an ‘oath:
I swear, or affirm, (as the case may be,) to be true to the United States of
America, and to serve them honestly and faithfully against all their enemies or
opposers whatsoever; and to observe and obey the orders of the Continental
Congress, and the orders of the generals and officers set over me by them.
Which justice or magistrate is to give the officer a certificate, signifying that
the man inlisted, did take the said oath or affirmation.
Jłrt. 2. After a non-commissioned officer or soldier shall have been duly
inlisted and sworn, he shall not be dismissed the service without a discharge
in writing ; and no discharge, granted to him, shall be allowed of as sufficient,
which is not signed by a field-officer of the regiment into which he was inlist-
ed, or commanding officer, where no field-officer of the regiment is in the
Same State.
SECTION IV.
•ºrt. 1. Every officer commanding a regiment, troop, or company, shall, upon
the notice given to him by the commissary of musters, or from one of his de-
puties, assemble the regiment, troop or company, under his command, in the
next convenient place for their being mustered.
•Art. 2. Every colonel or other field-officer commanding the regiment, troop,
or company, and actually residing with it, may give furloughs to non-commis.
sioned officers and soldiers, in such numbers, and for so long a time, as he shall
judge to be most consistent with the good of the service; but, no non-commis-
sioned officer or soldier shall, by leave of his captain, or inſerior officer, com-
manding the troop or company (his field-officer not being present) be absent
above twenty days in six months, nor shall more than two private men be ab-
sent at the same time from their troop or company, excepting some extraordi-
nary occasion shall require it, of which occasion the field-officer, present with,
and commanding the regiment, is to be the judge. .**
virt. 3. At every muster, the commanding officer of each regiment, troop,
or company, there present, shall give to the commissary, certificates signed
by himself, signifying how long such officers, who shall not appear at the said
484 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
\.
—
*-es
muster, have been absent, and the reason of their absence; in like manner, the
commanding officer of every troop or company shall give certificates, signify-
ing the reasons of the absence of the non-commissioned officers and private
soldiers ; which reasons, and time of absence, shall be inserted in the mus-
ter-rolls opposite to the names of the respective absent officers and soldiers:
The said certificates shall, together with the muster-rolls, be remitted by the
commissary to the Congress, as speedily as the distance of place will admit.
•Art, 4. Every officer who shall be convicted before a general court-martial
of having signed a false certificate, relating to the absence of either officer or
private soldier, shall be cashiered.
Jirt. 5. Every officer who shall knowingly make a false muster of man or
horse, and every officer or commissary who shall willingly sign, direct, or al-
low the signing of the muster-rolls, wherein such false muster is contained,
shall, upon proof made thereof by two witnesses before a general court-mar-
tial, be cashiered, and shall be thereby utterly disabled to have or hold any
office or employment in the service of the United States.
..Art. 6. Any commissary who shall be convicted of having taken money, or
any other thing, by way of gratification, on the mustering any regiment, troop,
or company, or on the signing the muster-rolls, shall be displaced from his
office, and shall be thereby utterly disabled to have or hold any office or em-
ployment under the United States.
Jirt. 7. Any officer who shall presume to muster any person as a soldier,
who is, at other times, accustomed to wear a livery, or who does not actually
do his duty as a soldier, shall be deemed guilty of having made a false mus-
ter, and shall suffer accordingly.
SECTION V. f
Jłrt. 1. Every officer who shall knowingly make a false return to the Con-
gress, or any committee thereof, to the commander in chief of the forces of the
United States, or to any his superior officer authorized to call for such returns,
of the state of the regiment, troop, or company, or garrison, under his com-
mand, or of arms, ammunition, clothing, or other stores thereunto belonging,
shall, by a court-martial, be cashiered.
Jirt. 2. The commanding officer of every regiment, troop, or independent
company, or garrison of the United States, shall, in the beginning of every
month, remit to the commander in chief of the American forces, and to the
Congress, an exact return of the state of the regiment, troop, independent
company, or garrison under his command, specifying the names of the officers
not then residing at their posts, and the reason for, and time of their absence:
Whoever shall be convicted of having, through neglect or design, omitted
the sending such returns, shall be punished according to the nature of his
crime, by ifie judgment of a general court-martial.
SECTION WI.
Jºrt. 1. All officers and soldiers, who having received pay, or having been
duly inlisted in the service of the United States, shall be convicted of having
deserted the same, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as by a court-
martial shall be inflicted. &
.Art. 2. Any non-commissioned officer or soldier, who shall, without leave
from his commanding officer, absent himself from his troop or company, or
from any detachment with which he shall be commanded, shall, upon being
convicted thereof, be punished, according to the nature of his offence, at the
discretion of a court-martial.
.Art. 3. No non-commissioned, officer or soldier shall inlist himself in any
other regiment, troop or ...'. without a regular discharge from the regi;
ment, troop or company, in which he last served, on the penalty of being reputed
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 485
*º-
a deserter, and suffering accordingly: And in case any officer shall, know-
ingly, receive and entertain such non-commissioned officer or soldier, or shall
not, after his being discovered to be a deserter, immediately confine him, and
give notice thereof to the corps in which he last served, he, the said officer so
offending, shall, by a court-martial, be cashiered.
..Art. 4. Whatsoever officer or soldier shall be convicted of having advised
or persuaded any other officer or soldier to desert the service of the United
States, shall suffer such punishment as shall be inflicted upon him by the sen-
tence of a court-martial.
... " SECTION VII.
Jłrt. 1. No officer or soldiershall use any reproachful or provoking speeches or
gestures to another, upon pain, if an officer, of being put in arrest; if a sol-
dier, imprisoned, and of asking pardon of the party offended, in the presence
of his commanding officer.
Jłrt. 2. No officer or soldier shall presume to send a challenge to any other
officer or soldier, to fight a duel, upon pain, if a commissioned officer, of being
cashiered, if a non-commissioned officer or soldier, of suffering corporeal pu-
nishment, at the discretion of a court-martial.
.Art. 3. If any commissioned or non-commissioned officer commanding a
guard, shall, knowingly and willingly, suffer any person whatsoever to go forth
to fight a duel, he shall be punished as a challenger: And likewise all seconds,
promoters, and carriers of challenges, in order to duels, shall be deemed as
principals, and be punished accordingly.
Jłrt. 4. All officers, of what condition soever, have power to part and quell
all quarrels, frays, and disorders, though the persons concerned should belong
to another regiment, troop or company; and either to order officers into arrest,
or non-commissioned officers or soldiers to prison, till their proper superior
officers shall be acquainted there with ; and Wºe; shall refuse to obey such
officer (though of an inferior rank) or shall draw his sword upon him, shall be
punished at the discretion of a general court-martial.
•ºrt. 5. Whatsoever officer or soldier shall upbraid another for refusing a
challenge, shall himself be punished as a challenger; and all officers and sol-
diers are hereby discharged of any disgrace, or opinion of disadvantage, which
night arise from their having refused to accept º challenges, as they will only
have acted in obedience to the orders of Congress, and done their duty as good
soldiers, who subject themselves to discipline.
SECTION VIII.
§rt. 1: No suttler shall be permitted to sell any kind of liquors or victuals, or
to keep their houses or shops open, for the entertainment of soldiers, after nine
at night, or before the beating of the reveilles, or upon Sundays, during divine
service, or sermon, on the penalty of being dismissed from all future suttling.
virt. 2. All officers, soldiers and suttlers, shall have full liberty to bring into
any of the forts or garrisons of the United American States, any quantity or
species of provisions, eatable or drinkable, except where any contract or con-
tracts are, or shall be entered into by Congress, or by their order, for furnishing
such provisions, and with respect only to the species of provisions so con-
tracted for.
“Art,3:. All officers, commanding in the forts, barracks, or garrisons of the
United States, are hereby required to see, that the persons permitted to suttle,
shall supply the soldiers with good and wholesome provisions at the market
Price, as they shall be answerable for their neglect.
Jłrt. 4. No officers, commanding in any of the garrisons, forts, or barracks
of the United States, shall either themselves exact exorbitant prices for houses
* Stalls let out to Suttlers, or shall connive at the like exactions in others;
486 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
\
nor, by their own authority and for their private advantage, shall they lay any
duty or imposition upon, or be interested in the sale of such victuals, liquors
or other necessaries of life, which are brought into the garrison, fort, or bar-
racks, for the use of the soldiers, on the penalty of being discharged from the
Seryl Ce. *
SECTION IX.
•ºrt. 1. Every officer commanding in quarters, garrisons, or on a march,
shall keep good order, and, to the utmost of his power, redress all such abuses
or disorders which may be committed by any officer or soldier under his com-
mand; if, upon complaint made to him of officers or soldiers beating, or other-
wise ill-treating any person; of disturbing fairs or markets, or of committing
any kind of riots to the disquieting of the good people of the United States;
he the said commander, who shall refuse or omit to see justice done on the of.
fender or offenders, and reparation made to the party or parties injured, as far
as part of the offenders pay shall enable him or them, shall, upon proof thereof,
be punished, by a general court-martial, as if he himself had committed the
crimes or disorders complained of.
SECTION X.
Jirt. 1. Whenever any officer or soldier shall be accused of a capital crime,
or of having used violence, or committed any offence against the persons or pro-
perty of the good people of any of the United American States, such as is punish-
able by the known laws of the land, the commanding officer and officers of eve:
ry regiment, troop, or party, to which the person or persons so accused shall
belong, are hereby º upon application duly made by or in behalf of the
party or parties injured, to use his utmost endeavors to deliver over such accus-
ed person or persons to the civil magistrate; and likewise to be aiding and as-
sisting to the officers of justice in apprehending and securing the person or#.
sons so accused, in order to bring them to a trial. If any commanding officer
or officers shall wilfully neglect or shall refuse, upon the application aforesaid,
to deliver over such accused person or persons to the civil magistrates, or to be
aiding and assisting to the officers of justice in apprehending such person or
persons, the officer or officers so offending shall be cashiered.
Art. 2. No officer shall protect any person from his creditors, on the pretence
of his being a soldier, nor any non-commissioned officer or soldier who does not
actually do all duties as such, and no farther than is allowed by a resolution
of Congress, bearing date the 26th day of December, 1775. Any officer of
fending herein, being convicted thereoſ before a court-martial, shall be cashiered.
SECTION XI.
Jīrt. 1. If any officer shall think himself to be wronged by his colonel, or the
commanding officer of the regiment, and shall, upon due application made to
him, be refused to be redressed, he may complain to the general, commanding
in chief the forces of the United States, in order to obtain justice, who is hereby
required to examine into the said complaint, and, either by himself, or the board
of war, to make report to Congress thereupon, in order to receive further di-
rections. t *
..Art. 2. If any inferior officer or soldier shall think himself wronged by his
captain, or other officer commanding the troop or company to which he belongs,
he is to complain thereof to the commanding officer of the regiment, who IS
hereby required to summon a regimental court-martial, for the doing justiº to
the complainant; from which regimental court-martial either party may, if he
thinks himself still aggrieved, appeal to a general court-martial ; but if, upº."
second hearing, the appeal shall appear to be vexatious and groundless, the pe. tº
SOI) ºpening shall be punished at the discretion of the said general COUT!"
martial.
JoURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 487
SECTION XII.
Jłrt. 1. Whatsoever commissioned officer, store-keeper, or commissary, shall
be convicted at a general court-martial of having sold (without a proper order
for that purpose) embezzled, misapplied, or wilfully, or through neglect, suf-
fered any of the provisions, forage, arms, clothing, ammunition, or other mili-
tary stores belonging to the United States, to be spoiled or damaged, the said
officer, store-keeper, or commissary so offending, shall, at his own charge, make
good the loss or damage, shalſ moreover forfeit ālihis pay, and be dismissed from
the service.
Jīrt 2. Whatsoever non-commissioned officer or soldier shall be convicted,
at a regimental court-martial, of having sold, or designedly, or through neglect,
wasted the ammunition delivered out to him to be employed in the service of
the United States, shall, if a non-commissioned officer, be reduced to a private
sentinel, and shall besides suffer corporeal punishment in the same manner as
à private sentinel so offending, at the discretion of a regimental court-martial.
...Art. 3. Every non-commissioned officer or soldier who shall be convicted at
a court-martial of having sold, lost or spoiled, through neglect, his horse, arms,
clothes or accoutrements shall undergo such weekly stoppages (not exceeding
the half of his pay) as a court-martial shall judge sufficient for repairing the
loss or damage ; and shall sufferimprisonment, or such other corporeal punish-
ment, as his crime shall deserve.
Jłrt. 4. Every officer who shall be convicted at a court-martial of having em-
bezzled or misapplied any money with which he may have been entrusted for
the payment of the men under his command, or for inlisting men into the ser-
vice, if a commissioned officer, shall be cashiered and compelled to refund the
money, if a non-commissioned officer, shall be reduced to serve in the ranks as
a private soldier, be put under stoppages until the money be made good, and
suffer such corporeal punishment, (not extending to life or limb) as the court-
martial shall think fit.
Jirt. 5. Every captain of a troop or company is charged with the arms, ac-
coutrements, ammunition, clothing, or other warlike stores belonging to the
troop or company under his command, which he is to be accountable for to his
colonel, in case of their being lost, spoiled, or damaged, not by unavoidable ac-
cidents, or on actual service.
SECTION XIII.
Jirt. 1. All non-commissioned officers and soldiers, who shall be found one
mile from the camp, without leave, in writing, from their commanding officer,
shall suffer such punishment as shall be inflicted upon them by the sentence of
a court-martial. g
•ºrt. 2. No officer or soldier shall lie out of his quarters, garrison, or camp,
without leave from his superior officer, upon penalty of being punished accord-
ing to the nature of his offence, by the sentence of a court-martial,
S flrt. 3. Every non-commissioned officer and soldier shall retire to his quar-
ters or tent at the beating of the retreat; in default of which he shall be punish-
ed, according to the nature of his offence, by the commanding officer. *
ſlrt. 4. No officer, non-commissioned i. or soldier, shall fail of repair.
ing, at the time fixed, to the place of parade or exercise, or other rendezvous
appointed by his commanding officer, if not prevented by sickness, or some
other evident necessity; or shall go from the said place of rendezvous, or from
his guard, without leave from his commanding officer, before he shall be regu-
larly dismissed or relieved, on the penalty of being punished according to the
nature of his offence, by the sentence of a court-martial.
•ºrt. 5. Whatever commissioned officer shall be found drunk on his guard,
party, or other duty under arms, shall be cashiered for it; any non-commis-
Sioned officer or soldier so offending, shall suffer such corporeal punishment as
shall be inflicted by the sentence of a court-martial.
488 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Jirt. 6. Whatever sentinel shall be found sleeping upon his post, or shall leave
it before he shall be regularly relieved, shall suffer death, or such other punish-
ment as shall be inflicted by the sentence of a court-martial.
Jºrt, 7. No soldier belonging to any regiment, troop, or company, shall hire
another to do his duty for him, or be excused from duty, but in case of sickness,
disability, or leave of absence ; and every such soldier found guilty of hiring
his duty, as also the party so hired to do another’s duty, shall be punished ai
the next regimental court-martial.
Järt. 8. And every non-commissioned officer conniving at such hiring of duty
as aforesaid, shall be reduced for it; and every commissioned officer, knowin
and allowing of such ill-practices in the service, shall be punished by the judg:
ment of a general court-martial. *
.ſirt. 9. Any person, belonging to the forces employed in the service of the
United States, who, by discharging of fire-arms, drawing of swords, beating
of drums, or by any other means whatsoever, shall occasion false alarms in
camp, garrison, or quarters, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as
shall be ordered by the sentence of a general court-martial.
.Art. 10. Any officer or soldier who shall, without urgent necessity, or with-
out the leave .his superior officer, quit his platoon or division, shall be punish-
ed, according to the nature of his offence, by the sentence of a court-martial.
Jīrt. 11. No officer or soldier shall do violence to any person who brings
rovisions or other necessaries to the camp, garrison or quarters of the forces
of the United States employed in parts out of said states, on pain of death,
or such other punishment as a court-martial shall direct.
.Art. 12. Whatsoever officer or soldier shall misbehave himself before the
enemy, or shamefully abandon any post committed to his charge, or shall
speak words inducing others to do the like, shall suffer death. *
Jīrt. 13. Whatsoever officer or soldier shall misbehave himself before the
enemy, and run away, or shamefully abandon any fort, post or guard, which he
or they shall be commanded to defend, or speak words inducing others to do
the like; or who, after victory, shall quit his commanding officer, or post, to
plunder and pillage: Every such offender, being duly convicted thereof, shall
be reputed a disobeyer of military orders; and shall suffer death, or such other
punishment, as, by a general court-martial, shall be inflicted on him.
Jirt. 14. Any person, belonging to the forces of the United States, who shall
cast away his arms and ammunition, shall suffer death, or such other punish-
ment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a general court-martial.
Jīrt. 15. Any person, belonging to the forces of the United States, who
shall make known the watch-word to any person who is not entitled to receive
it according to the rules and discipline of war, or shall presume to give a parole
or watch-word different from what he received, shall suffer death, or such other
punishment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a general court-martial.
Jīrt. 16. All officers and soldiers are to behave themselves orderly in quar-
ters, and on their march; and whosoever shall commit any waste or spoil,
either in walks of trees, parks, warrens, fish-ponds, houses or gardens, corn-
elds, enclosures or meadows, or shall maliciously destroy any property what:
soever belonging to the good people of the United States, unless by order ºf
the then commander in chief of the forces of the said states, to annoy rebels
or other enemies in arms against said states, he or they that shall be found
guilty of offending herein, shall (besides such ºl. as they are liable to by
ſaw) be punished according to the nature and degree of the offence, by the
judgment of a regimental or general court-martial.
Jirt. 17. Whosoever, belonging to the forces of the United States, employed
in foreign parts, shall force a safe-guard, shall suffer death. j
Jirt. 18. Whosoever shall relieve the enemy with money, victuals, or amº
munition, or shall knowingly harbor or protect an enemy, shall suffer death, or
such other punishment as by a court-martial shall be inflicted,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 489
.ſirt. 19. Whosoever shall be convicted of holding correspondence with, or
giving intelligence to the enemy, either directly or indirectly, shall suffer death,
or such other punishment as by a court-martial shall be inflicted.
Jirt. 20. All public stores taken in the enemy’s camp, towns, forts, or ma;
gazines, whether of artillery, ammunition, clothing, forage, or provisions, shall
be secured for the service of the United States; for the neglect of which the
commanders in chief are to be answerable. º
.ſirt. 21. If any officer or soldier shall leave his post or colors to go in search
of plunder, he shall upon being convicted thereof before a general court-mar-
tial, suffer death, or such other punishment as by a court-martial shall be in-
flicted.
Jºrt. 22. If any commander of any garrison, fortress, or post, shall be com-
pelled by the officers or soldiers under his command, to give up to the enemy,
or to abandon it, the commissioned officers, non-commissioned officers, or sol-
diers, who shall be convicted of having so offended, shall suffer death, or such
other punishment as shall be inflicted upon them by the sentence of a court-
martial.
Jłrt. 23. All suttlers and retainers to a camp, and all persons whatsoever
serving with the armies of the United States in the field, though no inlisted
soldier, are to be subject to orders, according to the rules and discipline of war.
Jłrt. 24. Officers having brevets, or commissions of a prior date to those of
the regiment in which they now serve, may take place in courts-martial and on
detachments, when composed of different corps, according to the ranks given
them in their brevets or dates of their former commissions; but in the regi-
ment, troop, or company to which such brevet officers and those who have
commissions of a prior date do belong, they shall do duty and take rank both
on court-martial and on detachments which shall be composed only of their
. corps, according to the commissions by which they are mustered in the
Sal (1 COTOS,
Jłrt. º If upon marches, guards, or in quarters, different corps shall hap-
pen to join or do duty together, the eldest officer by commission there, on duty,
or in quarters, shall command the whole, and give out orders for what is need-
ful to the service; regard being always had to the several ranks of those corps,
and the posts they usually occupy.
Jłrt. 26. And in like manner also, if any regiments, troops, or detachments
of horse or foot shall happen to march with, or be encamped or quartered with
any bodies or detachments of other troops in the service of the United States,
the eldest officer, without respect to corps, shall take upon him the command
of the whole, and give the necessary orders to the service.
SECTION XIV.
virt: 1. A general court-martial in the United States shall not consist of less
than thirteen commissioned officers, and the president of such court-martial
shall not be the commander in chief or commandant of the garrison where the
offender shall be tried, nor be under the degree of a field officer.
•lrt; 2. The members both of general and regimental courts-martial shall,
when belonging to different corps, take the same rank which they hold in the
army; but when courts-martial shall be composed of officers of one corps, the
shall take their ranks according to the dates of the commissions, by º
they are mustered in the said corps.
virt. 3. The judge-advocate general, or some person deputed by him, shall
Prosecute in the name of the United States of America; and in trials of of.
fenders by general courts-martial, administer to each member the followin goaths:
“You shall well and truly try and determine, according to your evidence,
the matter now before you, between the United States of America, and the
prisoners to be tried. So help you God.
VoI. I. 62 * t
p
490 Journals OF CONGRESS, 1776.
“You A. B. do swear, that you will duly administer justice according to
the rules and articles for the better government of the forces of the United
States of America, without partiality, favor, or affection; and if any doubt
shall arise, which is not explained by the said articles, according to your con-
science, the best of your understanding, and the custom of war in the like
cases. And you do further swear, that you will not divulge the sentence of the
court, until it shall be approved of by the general, or commander in chief; nei-
ther will you, upon any account, at any time whatsoever, disclose or discover
the vote or opinion of any particular member of the court-martial, unless re-
quired to give evidence thereof as a witness by a court of justice, in a due
course of law. So help you God.”
And as soon as the said oath shall have been administered to the respective
members, the president of the court shall administer to the judge-advocate, or
person officiating as such, an oath in the following words:
“You A. B. do swear, that you will not, upon any account, at any time
whatsoever, disclose or discover the vote or opinion of any particular member
of the court-martial, unless required to give evidence thereof, as a witness, by
a court of justice, in a due course of law. So help you God.”
Jłrt. 4. All the members of a court-martial are to behave with calmness and
decency; and in the giving of their votes, are to begin with the youngest in
COIT) Uſ). ISSIOI).
Jłrt. 5. All persons who give evidence before a general court-martial, are
to be examined upon oath; and no sentence of death shall be given against
any offender by any general court-martial, unless two-thirds of the officers
present shall concur therein.
Jłrt. 6. All persons called to give evidence, in any cause, before a court-
martial, who shall refuse to give evidence, shall be punished for such refusal,
at the discretion of such court-martial : The oath to be administered in the
following form, viz.
“You swear the evidence you shall give in the cause now in hearing, shall
be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. So help you God.”
Jłrt. 7. No field-officer shall be tried by any person under the degree of a
captain; nor shall any proceedings or trials be carried on excepting between
the hours of eight in the morning and of three in the afternoon, except in
cases which require an immediate example.
Jłrt. 8. No sentence of a general court-martial shall be put in execution,
till after a report shall be made of the whole proceedings to Congress, or to
the general or commander in chief of the forces of the United States, and their
or his directions be signified thereupon.
.ſlrt. 9. For the more equitable decision of disputes which may arise be-
tween officers and soldiers belonging to different corps, it is hereby directed,
that the courts-martial shall be equally composed of officers belonging to the
corps in which the parties in question do then serve; and that the presidents
shall be taken by turns, beginning with that corps which shall be eldest in rank.
JArt. 10. The commissioned i. of every regiment may, by the appoint-
ment of their colonel or commanding officer, hold regimental courts-martial for
the enquiring into such disputes, or criminal matters, as may come before them,
and for the inflicting corporeal punishments for small offences, and shall give
judgment by the majority of voices; but no sentence shall be executed till the
commanding officer (not being a member of the court-martial) or the com-
mandant of the garrison, shall have contirmed the same.
Jºrt. 11. No regimental court-martial shall consist of less than five officers,
excepting in cases where that number cannot conveniently be assembled, when
three may be sufficient; who are likewise to determine upon the sentence by
the majority of voices; which sentence is to be confirmed by the commanding
officer of the regiment, not being a member of the court-martial.
JArt. 12. Every officer commanding in any of the forts, barracks, or elsewhere,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 491
*-
where the corps under his command consists of detachments from different re-
giments, or of independent companies, may assemble courts-martial for the
trial of offenders in the same manner as if they were regimental, whose sen-
. is not to be executed until it shall be confirmed by the said commanding
OIII Cer’.
Jłrt. 13. No commissioned officer shall be cashiered or dismmissed from the
service, excepting by an order from the Congress, or by the sentence of a ge-
neral court-martial; but non-commissioned officers may be discharged as pri-
vate soldiers, and, by the order of the colonel of the regiment, or by the sentence
of a regimental court-martial, be reduced to private sentinels.
Jirt. 14. No person whatever shall use menacing words, signs, or gestures,
in the presence of a court martial then sitting, or shall cause any disorder or
riot, so as to disturb their proceedings, on the penalty of being punished at the
discretion of the said court-martial.
.ſºrt. 15. To the end that offenders may be brought to Justice, it is hereby
directed, that whenever any officer or soldier shall commit a crime deserving
punishment, he shall, by his commanding officer, if an officer, be put in arrest;
if a non-commissioned officer or soldier, be imprisoned till he shall be either
tried by a court-martial, or shall be lawfully discharged by a proper authority.
Jłrt. 16. No officer or soldier who shall be put in arrest or imprisonment,
shall continue in his confinement more than eight days, or till such time as a
court-martial can be conveniently assembled.
Jłrt. 17. No officer commanding a guard, or provost-martial, shall refuse to
receive or keep any prisoner committed to his charge, by any officer belonging
to the forces of the United States; which officer small, at the same time, de-
liver an account in writing, signed by himself, of the crime with which the said
prisoner is charged.
Jłrt. 18. No officer commanding a guard, or provost-martial, shall presume
to release any prisoner committed to his charge without proper authority for so
doing; nor shall he suffer any prisoner to escape, on the penalty of being pu-
nished for it by the sentence of a court-martial.
.ſirt. 19. Every officer or provost-martial to whose charge prisoners shall be
committed, is hereby required, within twenty-four hours after such commit-
ment, or as soon as he shall be relieved from his guard, to give in writing to the
colonel of the regiment to whom the prisoner belongs (where the prisoner is
confined upon the guard belonging to the said regiment, and that his offence
only relates to the neglect of duty in his own corps) or to the commander in
chief, their names, their crimes, and the names of the officers who committed
them, on the penalty of his being punished for his disobedience or neglect, at
the discretion of a court-martial.
Jirt. 20. And if any officer under arrest, shall leave his confinement before
he is set at liberty by the officer who confined him, or by a superior power, he
shall be cashiered for it.
Jirt. 21. Whatsoever commissioned officer shall be convicted, before a ge-
neral court-martial, of behaving in a scandalous, infamous manner, such as is
unbecoming the character of an officer and a gentleman, shall be discharged
from the service.
Jlrt. 22. In all cases where a commissioned officer is cashiered for cowar-
dice, or fraud, it shall be added in the punishment, that the crime, name, place
of abode, and punishment of the delinquent, be published in the newspapers,
in and about the camp, and of that particular state from which the offender
came, or usually resides. After which, it shall be deemed scandalous for any
officer to associate with him.
SECTION XV.
ºrt. 1. When any commissioned officer shall happen to die, or be killed in
the service of the United States, the major of the regiment, or the officer doing
492 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
the major's duty in his absence, shall immediately secure all his effects, or
equipage, then in camp or quarters; and shall, before the next regimental
court-martial, make an inventory thereof, and forthwith transmit the same to
the office of the board of war, to the end, that his executors may, after payment
of his debts in quarters and interment, receive the overplus, if any be, to his
or their use. -
•ºrt. 2. When any non-commissioned officer or soldier shall happen to die,
or to be killed in the service of the United States, the then commanding officer
of the troop or company, shall, in the presence of two other commissioned
officers, take an account of whatever effects he dies possessed of, above his re-
gimental clothing, arms, and accoutrements, and transmit the same to the office
of the board at war; which said effects are to be accounted for, and paid to
the representative of such deceased non-commissioned officer or soldier. And
in case any of the officers, so authorized to take care of the effects of dead of-
ficers and soldiers, should, before they shall have accounted to their represen-
tatives for the same, have occasion to leave the regiment, by preferment or other-
wise, they shall, before they be permitted to quit the same, deposit in the hands
of the commanding officer or of the agent of the regiment, all the effects of
such deceased non-commissioned officers and soldiers, in order that the same
may be secured for, and paid to, their respective representatives.
SECTION XVI.
Jirt. 1. All officers, conductors, gunners, mātrosses, drivers, or any other per-
, sons whatsoever, receiving pay or hire in the service of the artillery of the Unit-
ed States, shall be governed by the aforesaid rules and articles, and shall be
subject to be tried by courts-martial, in like manner with the officers and sol-
diers of the other troops in the service of the United States.
Jłrt. 2. For differences arising amongst themselves, or in matters relating sole-
ly to their own corps, the courts-martial may be composed of their own officers;
but where a number sufficient of such officers cannot be assembled, or in mat-
ters wherein other corps are interested, the officers of artillery shall sit in
courts-martial with the officers of the other corps, taking their rank according
to the dates of their respective commissions, and no otherwise.
SECTION XVII.
Jłrt. 1. The officers and soldiers of any troops, whether minute-men, militia,
or others, being mustered and in continental pay, shall, at all times, and in all
{}. when joined, or acting in conjunction with the regular forces of the
nited States, be governed by these rules or articles of war, and shall be sub-
ject to be tried by courts-martial in like manner with the officers and soldiers in
the regular forces, save only that such courts-martial shall be composed entire-
ly of militia officers of the same provincial corps with the offender.
That such militia and minute-men as are now in service, and have, by particu-
lar contract with the respective states, engaged to be governed by particular re-
gulations while in continental service, shall not be subject to the above arti-
cles of war.
.Art. 2. For the future, all general officers and colonels, serving by commis-
sion from the authority of any particular state, shall, on all detachments, courts-
martial, or other duty wherein they may be employed in conjunction with the
regular forces of the United States, take rank next after all generals and colo-
neſs serving by commissions from Congress, though the commissions of such
articular generals and colonels should be of elder date; and in like manner
É. majors, captains, and other inferior officers, serving by
commission from any particular state, shall, on all detachments, courts-mar-
tial, or other duty, wherein they may be employed in conjunction with the re-
gular forces of the United States, have rank next after all officers of the like
* JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 493
rank serving by commissions from Congress, though the commissions of such
lieutenant-colonels, majors, captains, and other inferior officers, should be of
elder date to those of the like rank from Congress. .*
SECTION XVIII.
iſlrt. 1. The aforegoing articles are to be read and published once in every
two months, at the head of every regiment, troop or company, mustered, or to
be mustered in the service of the United States; and are to be duly observed
and exactly obeyed by all officers and soldiers who are or shall be in the said
Servl Ce.
Jirt. 2. The general, or commander in chieſ for the time being, shall have full
power of pardoning or mitigating any of the punishments ordered to be inflict-
ed, for any of the offences mentioned in the foregoing articles; and every of-
fender convicted as aforesaid, by any regimental court-martial, may be pardon-
ed, or have his punishment mitigated by the colonel, or officer commanding the
regiment.
Jłrt. 3. No person shall be sentenced to suffer death, except in the cases ex-
ressly mentioned in the foregoing articles; nor shall more than one hundred
ashes be inflicted on any offender, at the discretion of a court-martial.
That every judge-advocate, or person officiating as such, at any general court-
martial, do, and he is hereby required to transmit, with as much expedition as
the opportunity of time and distance of place can admit, the original proceed-
ings and sentence of such court-martial to the secretary at war, which said ori-
º roceedings and sentence shall be carefully kept and preserved in the of
ce of said secretary, to the end that persons entitled thereto may be enabled,
upon application to the said office, to obtain copies thereof.
That the party tried by any general court-martial, shall be entitled to a copy
of the sentence and proceedings of such court-martial, upon demand thereof
made by himself, or by any other person or persons, on his behalf, whether such
sentence be approved or not. w
Art. 4. The field officers of each and every regiment are to appoint some
suitable person belonging to such regiment, to receive all such fines as may
arise within the same, for any breach of any of the foregoing articles, and shall
direct the same to be carefully and properly applied to the relief of such sick,
wounded, or necessitous soldiers as belong to such regiments; and such person
shall account with such officer for all fines received, and the application thereof.
Jirt. 5. All crimes not capital, and all disorders and neglects which officers
and soldiers may be guilty of to the prejudice of good order and military dis-
cipline, though not mentioned in the above articles of war, are to be taken cog-
nizance of by a general or regimental court-martial, according to the nature
and degree of the offence, and be punished at their discretion.
Ordered, That the foregoing articles of war be immediately published. .
Ordered, That the resolutions for raising the new army be published, and
copies thereof sent to the commanding officers in the several departments and
to the assemblies and conventions of the respective states.
A petition from Charles Roberts, commander of the schooner Thistle, was
read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That the sum of 6,700 dollars be advanced to the delegates of New-
York, for the use of that state ; the said state to be accountable.
Ordered, That Mr. Paine write to governor Trumbull respecting the practi.
cability of enlarging the furnace at Salisbury, for casting heavy cannon there,
and request his opinion concerning the same.
The delegates from New-York having communicated to Congress a letter
: º 9th, from the committee of safety of that state, with Sundry papers en-
C+0Seſi :
494 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to take the same into
consideration, and report thereon with all convenient despatch:
The members chosen, Mr. Chase, Mr. Paine and Mr. Stockton.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to repair to head quarters,
near New-York, to enquire into the state of the army, and the best means of
supplying their wants:
The members chosen, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Gerry and Mr. Lewis.
Resolved, That an assistant physician to Dr. Shippen be appointed for the
flying-camp and troops in New-Jersey, and that his pay be 2 dollars and 2-3ds
per day:
The ballots being taken,
Dr. William Brown was elected.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, September 23, 1776.
A letter, of the 20th and 21st, from general Washington; two of the 19th,
from J. Trumbull; one of the 21st, from the convention of Delaware; one of
the 14th, from R. Varick; one of the 19th, from governor Livingston; also,
one of the 14th, from general Schuyler, and one of the 19th, from colonel Van
Schaick, and one from Dr. William Shippen, were read:
Ordered, That the letter from Dr. Shippen be referred to the medical com-
mittee, and the rest to the board of war.
Two petitions, one from colonel J. Stark, and the other from Mons. Devou-
rouy, were read, and referred to the board of war.
A petition from captain Archibald Hamilton, was read, praying that he may
be permitted to return home, and reside with his wife and children.
Resolved, That the prayer of the petition be granted.
Resolved, That two months’ pay be ...i to Mons. Colerus, as major;
the same to Mons. Malmedy, and two months’ pay to Mons. de Vernejouz, as
cantain.
º letter from the speaker of the assembly of New-Jersey, with an extract of
a letter from Amboy, were read:
Ordered, That a copy of the letter from the assembly, and of the enclosed
letter from Amboy, be sent to general Mercer; and that he be desired to take
such steps as shall effectually introduce order, and remove the complaints of
the inhabitants of the state of New-Jersey.
Resolved, That two members be added to the committee on the treasury:
The ballots being taken,
Mr. Hooper and Mr. Ellery were elected.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to devise ways and means
for providing clothing and other necessaries for the army:
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Wythe and Mr. R. Morris.
Two letters, of the 22d, from general Washington, being received, were read.
The committee, to whom were referred the several papers from the conven-
tion of the state of New-York, brought in a report, which was taken into con-
sideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the German battalion be ordered immediately to join the
army under general Washington; and that the president inform his excellency
of their march, and desire that he will order an equal number of men from his
army, to garrison the folts in the highlands.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to supply the German battalion
with such articles of clothing as they may stand in need of; the same to be
chargéd to their account, and deducted out of the pay of the men:
That three tons of the fifteen tons of powder, lately ordered to the northern
army, and now on its way thither, be left at New-Windsor, in the state of New-
\
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 495
**-----~ada
–-
–ºf
York, and from thence conveyed to fort Montgomery; and that five tons be
immediately sent from the city of Philadelphia; -
That two companies of the marines lately raised, and now in Philadelphia,
be also ordered to march immediately to fort Montgomery:
That application be made to the council of safety of the state of Pennsyl-
vania, to order one-half of the artillery men, now in the service of their state,
to proceed to fort Montgomery as soon as possible :
}. Congress approve the measures adopted by the convention of New-
York, for the defence of the highlands, and will cheerfully defray all the ne-
cessary expenses that may accrue.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, September 24, 1776.
A petition from Benjamin Marshall and brothers, and one from John Hazard,
were read, and referred to the marine committee.
A petition from Charles Startin, was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The board of war brought in a report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The committee, to whom was referred the petition of colonel Hazen, brought
in a report, which was taken into consideration : Whereupon,
Resolved, That colonel Hazen and lieutenant-colonel Edward Antill be con-
tinued in their offices, in the army of the United States, and that they recruit
their regiment to the number of a battalion on the continental establishment:
That the settlement of colonel Hazen’s accounts of monies advanced by
him, for the service of the United States, in Canada, be referred to the com-
missioners appointed to audit accounts in the northern department;
That 1095 dollars be paid to colonel Hazen, in full satisfaction for his neat
cattle, sheep, swine, poultry, hay and other articles, alleged to have been ta-
ken and used for the benefit of the continental army, near St. John’s; which
sun, together with 533 dollars and *d already received by him on that account,
is the amount of the said articles, as estimated by commissioners appointed by
general Wooster for that purpose, pursuant to an order of Congress:
That the damages done to the buildings, farms, &c. by our troops or those of
the enemy, ought not to be paid, unless general provision be made for com-
pensating all others, who, by means of the war, have, in like manner, been
damnified; which may be a subject worthy to be considered, after the close of
the war.
Resolved, That the committee be discharged from enquiring into what res-
pects the conduct of general Arnold; the Congress having directed general
Washington to cause an enquiry to be made into the conduct of the officers,
who served in Canada.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to devise ways and means
for effectually providing the northern army with provisions and medicines, and
supplying their other necessary wants:
The members chosen, Mr. Rush, Mr. Hall, Mr. Chase, Mr. Johnson and
Mr. Stockton,
Itesolved, That the medical committee be directed to apply to the council of
safety of Pennsylvania, for a quantity of medicines; to be repaid in kind or
in cash, as they shall choose. *
The board of war brought in a farther report:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Congress resumed the consideration of the instructions to the commissioners,
and the same being debated by paragraphs, and amended, were agreed to.
Ordered, That the committee of secret correspondence lay before Congress
to-morrow morning, the intelligence they have lately received from abroad.
496 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
~~~~tº->
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, September 25, 1776.
Two letters from general Lee; one of the 24th of August to the president,
the other of the 27th of the same month to the board of War, both dated at
Savannah, being received, were read. -
The committee of the treasury reported, that there is due,
To John Bates, for 212 camp-kettles delivered to Gustavus Risberg, assist-
ant to the deputy quarter-master-general, 282 60-90 dollars.
To Melchior Meng, for wagon-hire, carrying money to Albany, with ex-
penses, going and returning, 1177-90 dollars.
To Samuel Johnson, for 1047 meals supplied the militia on their march to
New-Jersey, 104 63-90 dollars:
To John Kerlin, for entertaining militia on their march to New-Jersey, 55
27-90 dollars:
To Messrs. St. Luke la Corn, major Campbell and captain Frazier, prisoners
from Canada, for their allowance of two dollars a week each, and for their
three servants at one dollar a week each, from the 8th of July to the 23d of
September, 1776, inclusive, 11 weeks, 90 dollars.
To Peter Mather, ſor entertaining militia on their march to New-Jersey, 32
72-90 dollars. g
To Samuel Pews, for supplying the militia with 269 meals of victuals, on
their march to New-Jersey, 26 81-90 dollars:
To Francis Lee, for the hire of a stage-coach, agreeable to a certificate of
Richard Peters, esq. to convey general Prescot and general M*Donald, with
their guard, 26 60-90 dollars.
To Jacob Henkles, for suppling troops with provisions, on their march to
New-Jersey, 215 52-90 dollars: *
To Robert Tolbert, 1818-90 dollars and to Joseph M'Kellup, 45 18-90 dol-
lars, for entertaining troops on their march to New-Jersey, both sums amount-
ing to 63 36-90 dollars, to be paid to the said Joseph M'Kellup :
To colonel Allen M’Donald of Kingsborough, and his son Alexander M*
Donald, for their allowance of two dollars a week for 21 weeks, and for their
servants’ allowance, 21 weeks, at one dollar a week, settled to the 17th of
September, 105 dollars:
To John Pluckrose, for going express from Congress to Charleston, South-
Carolina, 132 dollars:
To the steward of the Pennsylvania hospital, for boarding William Whit-
ing, a wounded soldier, 4 weeks, by order of Congress, 5 30-90 dollars:
To Jacob Peterman, to be paid to John Ebert, for 83 meals of victuals sup-
plied the troops of the flying-camp, on their march to New-Jersey, 8 22-90
dollars:
To Gunning Bedford, esq. for his pay and rations, from the 17th of June to
the 17th of September, 1776, being 3 months, 15264-90 dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The said committee farther reported, that they have considered the petition
of captain James Ross to Congress, and are of opinion, that he should be
credited with the following sums charged to his account; he not having receiv-
ed the accounts in time, to make the stoppages, viz:
For Sundry articles supplied by Mr. Slough, amounting to 486 65-90 dollars:
For drums, &c. by Simons & Henry, 1724-90 dollars:
For cash to a wagoner, by committee of Lancaster county, 66 60-90 dollars:
For part of an account of expenses of his company, on their march to Cam-
bridge, 1778-90 dollars: &
The whole amounting to 588 47-90ths dollars:
l
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 497
*
-*- A.
*——
Ordered, That the said sum be passed to his credit.
Resolved, That an order for 40 dollars be drawn on the treasurer in favor
of Mons. P. Govert, as captain-lieutenant of artillery; the same being two
months’ pay advanced, for which he is to be accountable.
A letter from general Washington, enclosing one from brigadier-general
Green, and a return of the army, was read.
Resolved, That the captains, or commanding officers of the companies of the
militia of Pennsylvania, make up the pay-rolls of such companies as have been
regularly discharged from the camp, in New-Jersey, from the time of their
being last paid, with the addition of a day to each man, for every twenty miles
between the camp and his respective place of abode; for which an allowance
of one penny per mile is to be made, without rations or subsistence. The sums
due on the said rolls to be attested by the oaths or affirmations of the respective
captains or commanding officers, and certified by one of their field-officers.
And the pay-master in Philadelphia is hereby directed to discharge the said
rolls, on certificates being produced from the commissary of stores at the flying-
camp, and in this city, of the re-delivery of such of the public stores as have
been received by the companies aforesaid, or the regiments to which they res-
pectively belong, or upon deducting the amount thereof from the pay of those
who have not returned them:
That the captains or commanding officers of such of the said militia, as are
not yet returned from the camp, be directed, when discharged, to procure from
the commanding officer of the camp, certificates of the sums due in their res-
pective rolls; and in every other respect, the said captains or commanding of-
ficers, and the pay-masters aforesaid, are to observe the rules prescribed in the
foregoing resolve for payment of the said militia.
IResolved, That three gentlemen be appointed to audit and settle the ac-
counts of the Pennsylvania militia: - -
The ballots being taken, the following gentlemen were chosen, viz. Mr. P.
Chevalier, Mr. J. Wilcox and Mr. James Mease.
The committee appointed to devise way and means for providing clothing,
and other necessaries, for the army, brought in their report, which was taken
into consideration ; Whereupon, .
Resolved, That it be recommended to the general assemblies and conven-
tions of the United States, to forward to head-quarters, the clothing, blankets
and necessaries, which they may have provided in consequence of the resolu-
, tion of Congress of the 19th of June last, drawing on the president for the cost
and conveyance thereof; in which it is hoped the utmost diligence and expedi-
tion will be used, that those who expose themselves to danger in defending and
protecting their fellow-citizens, may suffer as little as possible from incle-
ment seasons :
That a committee of Congress, consisting of one delegate from each state,
be appointed, with authority to employ proper persons to purchase, in their
respective states, a sufficient number of blankets and woollens fit for soldiers'
clothes, and that they take the most effectual and speedy, methods for getting
such woollens made up, and distributed among the regular continental army,
in such proportion as will best promote the public service: And that they also
purchase all other ". clothing for the soldiers, in such proportion, as
they judge, upon the best information, will be wanted; and that the said com.
mittee be authorized to draw on the president of Congress, for the sums neces-
sary to execute this business; they to be accountable for the amount of their
draughts and disbursements:
That Mr. J. Mease be directed immediately to send to general Gates, all the
white shirts, shoes and stockings, he now has in his possession, and which are
ºappropriated, for the use of the northern army; and that he use the utmost
diligence in º; collecting and sºns made, immediately, as many more
i Qb, f. w
498 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
of those articles as possible, making weekly reports to Congress of what he
obtains:
That general Schuyler or the commanding officer at Albany, be desired to
employ proper persons, immediately, to make up into soldier's clothes, the
woollens mentioned in general Schuyler’s letter of the 29th of August last, and
transmit the same, without delay, to the general commanding the northern
army, for the use of such of the troops in that army, as have inlisted for three
years, or will inlist during the war.
Resolved, That the commissaries and quarter-master general, and deputy
quarter-masters general and their assistants, in the several departments, be
directed to apply to Mr. Mease for such articles of clothing, camp-equipage,
and other utensils, which they may want to purchase in the state of Pennsyl-
vania for the use of the army.
Congress then proceeded to the appointment of the committee, when the fol-
lowing gentlemen were chosen, viz.
Mr. Bartlett, Mr. Paine, Mr. Ellery, Mr. Williams, Mr. Floyd, Mr. Stock-
ton, Mr. Ross, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. Paca, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Hewes, Mr. Middle-
ton, and Mr. Hall.
Resolved, That lieutenant Boger and lieutenant Ball be released from pri.
son, on signing the like parole, as the other officers, prisoners at York-Town,
in Pennsylvania.
Resolved, That the committee to whom was entrusted the care of publishing
the journals of this house, be empowered to collect from the several printers,
such parts of the said journals as they have printed, and lodge them with Ro-
bert Aitken, for sale; the several printers to be paid out of the sales, in such
manner as the committee shall find just and equitable; and that the said com-
mittee make a publication of the journals as far as printed, as soon as possible.
The committee appointed to devise ways and means for providing the north-
ern army with provisions, medicines and other necessaries, brought in a re-
ort, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That a committee be immediately sent to Ticonderoga; that they
give orders that a number of sheep, and a quantity of Indian meal, rice, and
oatmeal, and molasses, be immediately sent to Lake George and Ticonderoga;
that they endeavor to contract for the provisions for the northern army, by the
ration, the particulars of which to be valued, and any part not supplied, to be
paid for in money by the contractor; and that such contract be made, as far as
may be, agreeable to the mode recommended by general Schuyler in his letter
to Congress of the 25th of August: that the committee consult with the com-
manding officer in the northern department, and such other of the general offi-
cers as imay be thought proper, on the best mode to re-inlist the army there, and
to provide barracks and clothing for the troops, and especially that they engage
the goods mentioned by general Schuyler, and apply such of them as may be
necessary for the northern army :
That the committee be empowered to make regulations for the hospitals in
the northern department, and to remove or º any person employed there-
in, and to employ such as they may think necessary ºf proper; and that they
report to Congress the state and condition of the army, and any further regu-
lations which they may think necessary, for the better government and supply-
ing the said army : Jº
hat the committee consist of two, and that to-morrow be assigned for elect-
ing the said committee.
Congress took into consideration the report of the board of war: Whereupon,
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to purchase as many tents, camp-
kettles, canteens, and other camp furniture, and as much clothing as he can
º procure, for the use of the army under the command of general Wash-
1ngton :
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 499
A
That captain James Ross be appointed major in colonel Hand’s regiment,
and that the other vacancies in that battalion be filled up as recommended by
the colonel, in manner following, viz.
John Halliday to be captain, in the room of James Ross, promoted :
William Wilson to be first-lieutenant, John Dougherty to be second lieu-
tenant, and Benjamin Lyon to be third lieutenant; John Dick to be second
lieutenant, in the room of Jacob Zanch, resigned ; and Robert Cunningham to
be third lieutenant, vice John Dick:
That the vacancies in colonel Ward's regiment of the Massachusetts-Bay
be filled up in the manner recommended by the colonel, viz.
Captain James Mellen, to be major; commis- 2d lieuts. Jon, Champeney, July 12, 1776,
sion to be dated from the time of doing du- Samuel Clofflin, Sept. 11, do
ty, viz. E. s August 15, 1776 | Ensigns, Jonas Snow, July 20, do.
Captains, Ephraim Burr, April 1, do. Caleb Noble, July 20, do.
Eben. Cleveland, July 12, do Joseph Freeland, Sept. 11, do.
Nahum Ward, Sept. 11, do. Chaplain, Eben. Cleveland, Jan. 1, do.
1st lieuts. Baxter Howe, July 12, do. Surgeon, Elihu Wright, Aug. 12, do.
Samuel Shelden, Sept. 11, do. Do. mate, Israel Whiting, July 1, do.
That Leonard Gansevoort, jun. be appointed pay-master to col. Van Schaick’s
regiment: t
That Richard Varick, late captain in colonel M’Dougal’s regiment, which
office he resigned, secretary to the honorable major-general Schuyler, be ap-
pointed deputy muster-master general to the northern army: and
That major Henry Brockholst Livingston, aid-de-camp to general Schuyler,
be provided for by Congress in a station equal to his merit, when a proper va-
cancy happens, he being recommended by the general as a very deserving officer :
That the part of general Schuyler’s letter, referred to the board of war, which
relates to Indian affairs, be referred to the committee for Indian affairs:
That the commissary-general be directed to procure such quantities of salt,
and to buy, cure, and lay up, in proper places, such quantities of provisions as
he shall judge necessary for the next campaign :
That the commissary general’s letter relative to his having drawn an order
on Mr. president Hancock, in favor of colonel Lowry, for 60,000 dollars, be re-
ferred to the treasury board:
That Monsieur Devourouy’s petition be referred to the marine committee:
That the letters from his excellency governor Livingston, of New-Jersey,
respecting the payment of the militia, be referred to the treasury board :
That so much of general Arnold’s letter to general i. as relates to
clothing, be referred to the committee for providing clothing for the army.
The committee appointed to settle the rank of the captains and subalterns in
the German battalion, reported the same as follows, which was agreed to :
.Captains, Daniel Burkhart, Philip Graybill, George Hubley, Henry Fister,
!W. Bonner, George Kaports, Benjamin Weiser, William Keyser, and David
Voelpper.
*utenants, Frederick Rolwagen, John Lora, Peter Boyer, Charles
#. William Rice, Jacob Kotz, Jacob Bower, Samuel Gerock, and Bernard
ublev.
sºld lieutenant, George Hawbacker, Christian Meyers, John Landen-
berger, Michael Bayer, George Schaeffer, Adam Smith, Frederick Yeiser,
William Ritter, and Philip Schrawder.
Ensigns, John Weidman, Martin Shugart, Christian Helm, Jacob Crummet,
: ramer, Paul Christman, Christopher Godfrey Swartz, and John Lan-
€IADel’Orer, t
The committee appointed to hear and determine on the appeal against the
sentence of condemnation passed upon the schooner º: reversed
the decree, .”
500 Journals of CONGRESS, 1776.
-A
Resolved, That a passport and safe conduct be granted to Charles Roberts,
master of the schooner Thistle, for himself and the said schooner, for the space
of sixty days.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, September 26, 1776.
Congress proceeded to the election of a committee to go to Ticonderoga;
and the ballots being taken,
Mr. Stockton and Mr. Clymer were elected.
Ordered, That the secret committee deliver to lieutenant Pendleton, 8 lbs,
of powder, for the use of his company.
he committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Jacob Shizens, for half-ferriages of the militia and their baggage over Ne-
shaminy ferry, 1740-90 dollars:
To James M*Cree, for boarding nine men of captain Grier’s company 18
days, at the rate of I dollar and 3d per week, 30 77-90 dollars :
To John Teney, for supplying the militia with 201 meals victuals on their
march to New-Jersey, 20 9-90 dollars; and to Philip Upright, for supplying
them with 996 meals, 99 5490 dollars, both sums making 11963-90 dollars,
to be paid to Adam Kimmel :
To John White Swift, for two receipts of brigadier-general D. Wooster, one
dated 17th January, for 240 dollars, and the other 8th of March, for 25 half-
Johannes, with interest allowed thereon, being six months, 18 days, at 6 per
cent. amounts to 206 54-90 dollars, both sums making 446 54-90 dollars:
To John Shultz, for boarding and lodging sundry continental troops,
201 60-90 dollars; and, for boarding and nursing sundry sick troops, 29
40-90 dollars, both sums making 231 19-90 dollars:
To captain Philip Graybill, of the German battalion, the balance of his ac-
count for arms, accoutrements, &c. for the use of his company, and for provi-
sions supplied them on their march from Maryland to Philadelphia, 11685-90
dollars, agreeable to the following account, viz.
Amount of provisions’ account, 732 41-90 dollars:
Of which he received, of the council of safety of Maryland, 266 60-90
dollars:
Of colonel Stricker, 327 dollars: j
Of major Veltner, 100 dollars: 693 60-90 dollars :
Balance on this account, 38 71-90 dollars:
Amount of arms, accoutrements, blankets, &c. 1129 24-90 dollars:
Amounting, in the whole, to 11685-90 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to superintend the publication of
the journals, be empowered and instructed to employ Robert Aitkin, to re-
print the said journals from the beginning, with all possible expedition, and
continue to print the same: And that this house will purchase of him 500 copies
of the said journals when reprinted ; and further, that he be directed to pur-
chase, on reasonable terms, such parts of the journals as Mr. Bradford, Cist,
& Co. have printed, and not yet published, to be paid for by the Congress.
Resolved, That general Washington be directed to procure, as soon as pos-
sible, an exchange of the officers and soldiers taken on Long-Island, for the
same number of British officers and privates, now prisoners to the United
States.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 501
w-
FRIDAY, September 27, 1776.
Two letters of the 24th and 25th, from general Washington, with sun-
dry papers enclosed ; one, of the 20th from the convention of New-York;
one, of the 22d, from Jos. Trumbull; one, of the 25th, from colonel John Shee,
enclosing his commission ; and one, of the 25th, from Jon. B. Smith, request-
ing leave to resign his office of deputy muster-master general, were laid before
Congress, and read.
Ordered, That the letters from general Washington be referred to a com-
mittee of five.
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Hopkinson, Mr. Rutledge, Mr. J.
Adams, and Mr. Stone.
Resolved, That 100,000 dollars be advanced to the delegates of New-York,
for the use of that state, which is to be accountable.
Resolved, That the resignation of colonel J. Shee and Jonathan B. Smith be
accepted.
Certain resolutions of the convention of New-York, passed the 20th of this
month, being laid before Congress,
Ordered, That they be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. M'Kean, Mr. Rutledge, and Mr. Hooper.
Itesolved, That George M.Cabe, in captain Douglas's company in the flying-
camp, be sent to Philadelphia, his service being necessary to the marine com-
mittee.
Ordered, That the secret committee deliver to the board of war, the care and .
custody of all arms, ammunition, and other warlike stores, now under their
care, or that may hereafter be imported or purchased by them for account of
the United States of America. -
Resolved, That'the marine committee be empowered to pursue such measures, a
as they judge proper and effectual, to import as much salt as possible. O
A petition §. Wm. M'Cue was read, and referred to the board of war.
A petition from Hamilton Young, of New-York, was read, praying that he
mº aveleave to return to Long Island, to take care of his books and effects:
esolved, That the prayer of the said petition be granted.
Congress being informed that a number of men belonging to three of the
Pennsylvania battalions, have deserted from the army,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the convention of Pennsylvania, to
take the most effectual measures to compel such of their troops, as have come
off from the camp on New-York island, to return immediately to that place;
that they enquire who were the ringleaders of the mutiny, and have them sent
back, under guard, for trial; and that the convention, if they think necessary,
have the assistance of the German battalion, to enable them to carry this resolve
into execution; and the convention are desired to use all proper means to fur-
mish their troops with clothing and blankets. The said convention are further
desired, to cause all deserters from their troops to be immediately apprehended,
and sent back to general Washington’s head-quarters.
The marine committee, to whom the petition of Francis Guillot was referred,
brought in a report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That Francis Guillot be permitted to fit out and arm a privateer,
under the colours of the United States of America, and that he be permitted to
equip and arm the said vessel in such place as he thinks he can do it at the
smallest expense; he giving the usual securities in such cases directed by
Congress.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, September 28, 1776.
A memorial from Gunning Bedford, muster-master general, was laid before
Congress, and read:
502 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
#Tº º E--->
—r-
Ordered, To lie on the table. *
The board of war, to whom the petition of William M’Cue was referred,
brought in a report; Whereupon, º
Resolved, As Congress have empowered the several states to provide for such
soldiers as may be disabled in the service of the continent, that the petition of
William M’Cue be referred to the commonwealth of Virginia.
Resolved, That 100,000 dollars be advanced to the state of Pennsylvania,
which is to be accountable.
Ordered, That Mr. Mease supply captain Doyle with money sufficient to
purchase rifles and blankets for his company.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, September 30, 1776.
Two letters, of the 27th and 28th, from general Washington, and one, of the
22d, from governor Trumbull, were read:
Also, a letter from Robert Franklin was read, and referred to the marine
committee.
A petition from J. Rowe and others, owners of goods on board the ship Eli-
zabeth, which was taken by captains John Manly, Daniel Waters and John
Ayres, commanders of the three armcd vessels Hancock, Lee and Lynch, and
libelled in the court maritime for the state of New-Hampshire, and, by the
sentence of the said court, acquitted; against which sentence, an appeal has
been entered, was laid before Congress and read, praying that the sº appeal
may be heard and determined; Whereupon, *
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed, with full powers to hear
... and determine on the said appeal:
• The members chosen, Mr. Paine, Mr. Huntington, Mr. Stone, Mr. Wythe
and Mr. Smith.
A letter from B. Flower, commissary of military stores, directed to the board
of war, was laid before Congress, and read.
Resolved, That the board of war be empowered and directed, on requisition
of the general, or commanding officers in the several departments, to send such
articles of military stores and other necessaries, which they may have in their
possession, or can procure.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to order the three Virginia bat-
talions, now on their march to New-York, to be lodged in the barracks at Wil-
mington; there to remain till farther orders. *
Resolved, That the sum of 13,333 dollars and 1-3d be advanced to Messrs.
Hughes, in part payment for the cannon they have contracted to make for the
continent; they to be accountable.
Resolved, That a member be added to the committee of treasury:
The member chosen, Mr. Hopkinson.
A petition from Mons. De Boy, and one from Mons. Ja. Wallier, were read,
and referred to the board of war.
A petition from Jacob Sheafe, and a petition from colonel M. Hazen, were read:
Ordered, That the petition from colonel Hazen be referred to the Canada
committee.
The committee, to whom were referred the letters from general Washington,
of the 24th and 25th instant, and the papers enclosed therein, brought in their
report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Washington be directed to call upon such of the
members of the court-martial, as sat upon the trial, and concurred in the ac-
uittal of ensign Macumber, to assign their reasons for their first judgment;
that those reasons, together with the names of such of the said members, who
were for the acquittal, be returned to Congress:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 503
That Mr. M*Donald, having a commission of brigadier-general from governor
Martin, be not exchanged for any officer under the rank of brigadier-general in
the service either of the United States or of any one of them:
That it be recommended to the legislatures of the United States, to appoint
gentlemen in their respective states, skilful in physic and surgery, to examine
those who offer to serve as surgeons or surgeons’ mates in the army or navy;
and that no surgeon or mate shall hereafter receive a commission or warrant to
act as such, in the army or Javy, who shall not produce a certificate from some
or one of the examiners so to be appointed, to prove that he is qualified to ex-
ecute the office:
That all regimental surgeons and mates, as well as those of the hospital, be
subject to the direction and controul of the directors in the several departments:
That no soldier be discharged from the service as disabled, unless the cer-
tificate of disability be countersigned by the director, assistant-physician, or
first-surgeon of the hospital, nor be excased from duty for sickness, unless the
certificate of sickness be countersigned by one of those persons, where access
may be had to them.
Resolved, That the remainder of the said report be postponed.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, October 1, 1776.
Resolved, That the sum of 60,000 dollars be advanced to Mr. James Mease,
for the payment of the militia, and to pay for the articles he is ordered to pur-
chase ; '. to be accountable.
Whereas, a full representation in Congress of the several United States, is
highly necessary on business of much importance to America; therefore,
Resolved, That the president be desired to write letters to the conventions
and assemblies of the respective states, requesting that measures be taken, to
cause, as speedily as possible, a full representation of the said states in
Congress.
Stephen Moylan, esq. having resigned his office of quarter-master-general
of the continental army, -
Resolved, That brigadier-general Mifflin be authorized and requested to
resume the said office, and that his rank and pay, as brigadier, be still contin-
ued to him :
That a committee of four be appointed to confer with brigadier-general Mifflin:
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Sherman, Mr. J. Adams, and
Mr. Gerry.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to prepare, and bring in a
plan, of a military academy at the army:
The members chosen, Mr. Hooper, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Williams
and Mr. J. Adams.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, October 2, 1776.
A letter, of the 30th of September, from general Washington, with two pa-
pers enclosed ; one, of the 27th of September, from S. Moylan; one, of the
23d, from general Gates; one, of the 23d, from col. Wayne; one, from briga-
dier-general Mercer, and a petition from Bartholomew Van Heer, were read,
and referred to the board of war. *
Jºesolved, That William Shephard be promoted to the rank of colonel of the
regiment, whereof he is now lieutenant-colonel.
A petition from John Bayard, Alexander Henderson and Matthew Irwin,
was presented to Congress, and read; Whereupon,
504 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
~.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to sell to the petitioners, 1600
lb. of powder, and 800 lb. of lead, for the use of their privateers, general Lee
and colonel Parry.
The committee appointed to confer with brigadier-general Mifflin, reported,
that, upon the conference, they find the following supplies will be necessary
for the use and comfort of the army, which ought to be procured as soon as
may be, viz. 200 wagons, with four horses each,-50 ox-teams, with 2 oxen
each, for sundry uses, 50 drays, with one horse each, for various small servi-
ces, 100 strong horses for the artillery, 50 horses, for expresses and commis-
sary uses,—25,000 bushels of Indian corn,-15,000 bushels of oats, 10,000
bushels of rye-meal,—10,000 bushels of spelts, 1800 tons of hay,+50 cut-
ting-boxes, 2000 axes, 2000 wheel and hand-barrows, 8000 cords of
wood, a set of carpenters’ tools for each regiment, a wagon-master, and
one deputy,+20 conductors of wagons on captains’ pay, allowing 10 wagons
for each conductor, 5 conductors for artillery, 100 casks of nails and
spikes, 10,000 knapsacks,—10,000 camp-kettels, two million feet of boards,
planks and joists, for barracks, platforms, &c.
That a company of 50 blacksmiths should be immediately sent to camp, 12
harness and collar-makers, and 25 wheelwrights.
Resolved, That for these various and necessary supplies, 300,000 dollars be
advanced to the quarter-master-general :
That one-eighth part of a dollar, over and above their soldiers’ pay, be al-
lowed to such persons as are necessarily draughted for quarter-masters’ uses:
That as 5000 tents will be necessary for the spring-campaign, they be pro-
vided in due time :
That it be recommended to the several states, to make legal provision to
compel the furnishing of necessary supplies and assistance to the quarter-mas-
ter-general of the continental army, on reasonable terms, for the public use.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to consider of a plan for
providing carriages for the public service, so as any demands may be speedily
complied with, and all oppression of private persons effectually prevented :
The members chosen, Mr. Witherspoon, Mr. Smith, and Mr. Huntington.
Resolved, That Benjamin Fishbourne be appointed pay-master to the second
Pennsylvania battalion, commanded by colonel Wood.
A memorial from the council of safety of Pennsylvania was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the committee of treasury, who are directed
to report thereon as soon as possible. *
The committee of treasury reported that there is due,
To George Measam, on account of sundry articles supplied the army in Ca-
mada, 947-90ths dollars:
Ordered, That the said account be paid.
The committee, to whom the resolutions passed by the convention of New-
York, were referred, brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the president write to general Schuyler, and inform him,
that Congress cannot consent, during the present situation of their affairs, to
accept of his resignation, but request, that he continue the command which he
now holds; that he be assured, that the aspersions, which his enemies have
thrown out against his character, have had no influence upon the minds of the
members of this house, who are fully satisfied of his attachments to the cause
of freedom, and are willing to bear their testimony of the many services which
he has rendered to his country; and that, in order effectually to put calumny
to silence, they will, at an early day, appoint a committee of their own body,
to enquire fully into his conduct, which, they trust, will establish his reputa-
tion in the opinion of all good men.
Resolved, "That the limits prescribed in the parole of John Foxcroft and Fran-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 505
—º-
cis Dashwood, esquires, be extended as far as the bounds of Pennsylvania,
within which they are to confine themselves, till farther orders. ,
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, October 3, 1776.
On application from the council of safety of North-Carolina: sp iº
Resolved, That Michael Holt, a prisoner in the gaol of Philadelphia, be dis-
charged from his imprisonment, that he may return to his family; he taking
the oath prescribed by the said council of safety.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to purchase, immediately, one hun-
dred hogsheads of rum, and forward the same to the commissary-general, for
the use of the army. & º
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the letter from general Mercer, which was received and read
yesterday, wherein he recommends col. Humpton to the command of a regi-
ment in the new army, and capt. Dawson to a majority, be referred to the coun-
cil of safety of Pennsylvania:
That captain Persifer Frazer be commissioned as major of colonel Wayne’s
battalion of the Pennsylvania troops, in the room of major Housigger, promoted.
The committee appointed to repair to the camp, having executed that ser-
vice, and returned, brought in a report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That Charles Startin be permitted to return to England, with his
yºnd family, from any of the United States he thinks proper, except New-
OFK,
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Martin Housman, for the hire of his wagon and ferriages, with generals
Prescot and M*Donald’s baggage to Newark, 43 dollars.
To George Campbell, for his own and Mr. Caldwell’s and Mr. Tod’s expen-
ses, as an escort to money from Philadelphia to Albany, 189 67-90ths dollars:
To John Sparhawk, for quills, &c. for the use of the treasury-office, 27
84-90ths dollars:
To Ludwick Karcher, a balance of 3,150 36-90ths dollars; the whole of his
account amounting to 8,483 66-90ths dollars; of which he has received 5,338
30-90ths dollars; the balance is 3,150 36-90ths:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Congress took into consideration the report of the board of treasury, on the
ways and means for raising a farther sum of money; º s
Whereupon, Resolved, That five millions of continental dollars be imme-
diately borrowed for the use of the United States, at the annual interest of
four per cent. per annum :
That the faith of the United States be pledged to the lenders for the payment
of the sums to be borrowed, and the interest arising thereon, and that certifi-
cates be given to the lenders in the form following, viz.
“The United States of America acknowledge the receipt of dollars from
, which they promise to pay to the said , or bearer, on the
day of , with interest annually, at the rate of four per cent, per annum,
agreeable to a resolution of the United States, passed the third day of October,
1776. Witness the hand of the treasurer, this day of , A. D.
“Countersigned” by the commissioners of one of the loan-offices hereafter
mentioned.
That for the convenience of the lenders, a loan-office be established in each.
of the United States, and a commissioner, to superintend such office, be ap-
VoI. I. 64
506 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1770
pointed by the said states respectively, which are to be responsible for the faith-
ful discharge of their duty in the said offices:
That the business of the said commissioners shall be to deliver certificates
for all such sums of money, as shall be brought into their respective offices,
agreeable to these resolutions, which certificates shall be indented and the
checks kept in the said office—to keep books, in which regular entries shall
be made of the sums borrowed, and the time when, and the names of the per-
Sons by whom the said sums were lent—to transmit to the continental trea-
Surer, once a month, an account of the cash in their respective offices, and to
answer all draughts of the treasurer to the amount of the cash, which they shall,
at any time, have in their hands, as aforesaid:
That the treasurer of the United States shall send to the respective loan-
offices, such a number of certificates and of such denominations as shall be
ordered by the commissioners of the treasury:
That no certificate be issued for a less sum than 300 dollars:
That the several sums of money to be borrowed, shall be repaid at the office
where the same was lent, at the expiration of three years, and that the annual
interest shall likewise be paid at the said office:
That the said commissioners of the respective loan-offices be entitled to re-
ceive of the United States, one-eighth per cent, on all monies which shall be
brought into their respective loan-offices, in lieu of all claims and demands,
that they may have for transacting the business of the said office.
Resolved, That the secret committee be empowered to take such measures,
as they shall judge necessary, for purchasing, arming and equipping, a frigate
and two cutters, in Europe, and to give proper orders for the said frigate mak-
ing a cruize in the British channel against our enemies, and for the said cut-
ters to be employed in transporting to these states, such articles, as the said
committee have been ordered to import.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, October 4, 1776.
A petition from the officers and men of the brig Andrew Doria was present-
ed, and read; Whereupon, *
Resolved, That the continental agents in Philadelphia be directed, with all
despatch, to make an estimate of the prizes taken by the Andrew Doria, and
lay the same before the marine committee for their approbation; and that the
said agents be directed to pay to the officers and men of the Andrew Doria, one
half of what may be estimated to be due to them :
That the said agents be farther directed to make an estimate of the stores
and prizes taken by the fleet, commanded by commodore Hopkins, and brought
from Providence, and lay the same before the marine committee for approba-
tion, as aforesaid, and pay to the officers and men entitled thereto, one half of
what may be estimated to be due to them.
A letter of the 2d and 3d, from general Washington, and two, of the 25th
and 26th September, from general Schuyler, being received, were read.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee sent to head-
quarters; and, after debate, the farther consideration thereof was postponed.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, October 5, 1776.
A letter, of the 23d of Sept. from James Bowdoin, with a copy of resolutions
passed by the general assembly of Massachusetts-Bay; one, of the 24th of
the same month, from the committee of safety of New-Hampshire; and one of
the 3d instant from governor Livingston, were read.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. g 507
Ordered, That the letters from general Washington and general Schuyler:
yº the papers enclosed, which were read yesterday, be referred to the board
GI Wall” -
That the letter from Mr. Bowdoin be referred to the marine committee :
That the letter from governor Livingston be referred to a committee of three,
and that the said committee be directed to take into consideration the case of
the prisoners in the gaol of Philadelphia.
The members chosen, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Ross, and Mr Floyd.
Ordered, That the petition of Jacob Sheafe be referred to the commissioners
appointed to hear and determine upon the appeal against the sentence on the
libel against the ship Elizabeth:
That R. Peters, esq. be empowered to prosecute the said appeal.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to sell to Joseph Golden, 10 lb.
of powder.
Kºi. That five months’ pay be advanced to the officers and three month’s
pay to the men who were taken prisoners in Canada, and sent to these United
States by general Carlton.
Resolved, That the report of the board of war, which was brought in the 14th
of September, be taken in consideration on Monday next.
Ordered, That the board of war, at that time, lay before Congress, the pa-
pers ºve to the dispute between the court-martial, and brigadier-general
Arnold.
Resolved, That the continental agents be directed to deliver to the commis-
sary-general, for the use of the army, all the salt in their hands belonging to
the continent.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, October 7, 1776.
Itesolved, That 8000 dollars be advanced to the committee of Lancaster,
for the purpose of defraying the expenses of enclosing the barracks in that
borough with a stockade, and supporting a guard ; the said committee to be
accountable.
Congress proceeded to the election of a deputy muster-master general for
*: flying-camp, in the room of Jonathan B. Smith; and, the ballots being
taken,
William Davies was elected.
A letter, of the 14th of September, from brigadier-general Moore, and one
from John Hanson, dated St. Croix, 14th August, being received, were read:
Resolved, That it be recommended to the assemblies and conventions of
the United States, respectively, to annex such penalties, by law, to the crime
of counterfeiting the certificates or notes of the continental loan-office, as are
or shall be annexed to the crime of counterfeiting the continental currency.
..Qrdered, That the resolutions for borrowing five millions of dollars, together
With the above resolve, be published, and copies thereof sent to each of the
United States, and that the respective states be desired to send to the commit-
tee of the continental treasury, the names of the commissioners by them ap-
pointed in consequence of the said resolutions.
A petition from James Browne, a prisoner, was laid before Congress, and
read, praying for leave to return to Ireland, the place of his nativity:
Resolved, That the prayer of the petition be granted.
General Lee having informed Congress of his arrival in Philadelphia, and
that he waited their orders:
Ordered, That general Lee attend in Congress.
U ::::::: º a commissary of prisoners of war be appointed in each of the
503 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
That the said commissaries be directed to make monthly returns of the state
and condition of the prisoners, under their respective care, to the board of
War :
That the said commissaries be appointed by the respective states.
Agreeable to order, general Lee attended; and having given an account of
the state of affairs in the southern department, he withdrew.
The secret committee informed Congress, that they had chartered and load-
ed in Virginia, the Aurora, late the prize-ship called the Oxford, for account of
the continent : Whereupon,
Resolved, That the president write to the governor and council of Virginia,
and request them to give all the assistance in their power, in manning and
despatching the said ship.
Resolved, That Matthias Hite, a first lieutenant of the eighth Virginia bat-
talion, have a continental commission, in lieu of that which he received from
the committee of safety of that state; and that his commission bear date the
19th of February last.
Resolved, That general Lee be directed to repair to the camp at Haerlem,
with leave, if he thinks proper, to visit the posts in New-Jersey.
The committee appointed to take into consideration the application from the
president of South-Carolina, in behalf of general Lee, reported,
That this Congress, having a just opinion of the abilities of general Lee, ap-
plied to him to accept a command in their service, which he readily agreed to,
provided the Congress would indemnify him against any loss, which he might
sustain in consequence thereof, he having, at that time, a considerable sum of
money due to him by persons in the kingdom of Great-Britain, which he was
resolved to draw from thence as soon as possible. That the Congress unani-
mously concurred in his proposal: That he accordingly entered into their ser-
vice; that he has since drawn bills upon his agent in England, which bills have
been returned protested. That general Lee, having purchased an estate in
Virginia, the purchase money for which has been long due, is likely to sustain,
by means of the protested bills, many injuries, unless this house prevent the
same by an advance of thirty thousand dollars: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the sum of 30,000 dollars be advanced to general Lee,
upon his giving bond to the treasurer to account for the same, and taking such
steps, in conjunction with Robert Morris, esq. on behalf of the Congress, as
will secure the most effectual transfer of his estate in England, to reimburse
the Congress for the advance now made to him.
Ordered, That the committee, who brought in the foregoing report, prepare
a suitable bond.
Congress took into consideration the report of the board of war of the 4th
instant: Whereupon,
Resolved, That Monsieur Pierre Francois de Bois be commissioned as a ma-
jor by brevet, and sent to general Mercer, to be employed in such way as he
shall think proper :
That Mr. Bartholomew Van Heer's accountbe referred to the board of trea-
sury. wº
The committee appointed to enquire into the causes of the miscarriages in
Canada, brought in a report:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the letters
from general Washington of the 24th and 25th of September: Whereupon,
Resolved, That as a further encouragement for gentlemen of abilities, to en;
gage as commission-officers in the battalions to be furnished by the several
states, to serve during the war, their monthly pay be increased as follows:
A colonel, 75; lieutenant-colonel, 60; major, 50 ; captain, 40; lieutenant,
27; ensign, 20; quarter-master, 27%; adjutant, 40 dollars.
sº
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 309
-*- gº
Resolved, That the further consideration of the report be postponed.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, October 8, 1776.
Two letters, of the 4th and 5th, from general Washington, with sundry pa-
pers enclosed; one, of the 4th, from the convention of New-York; one, of the
27th of September, from the council of Massachusetts-Bay; one, of the 2d
instant, from John Livingston; and one from John Heyleger, dated St. Croix,
4th September, were read:
Ordered, That the letter from John Heyleger be referred to the board of
war; that the letter from John Livingston be referred to the secret com-
mittee, who are directed to send to Mr. Livingston’s mill, the 10 tons of salt-
petre, sent last winter to Massachusetts-Bay.
Three petitions from sundry prisoners were read, and referred to the com-
mittee on the state of the prisoners.
Resolved, That a member be added to the said committee.
The member chosen, Mr. Rush.
Whereas it is necessary that the most speedy and effectual measures be
taken for raising the new army,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the assemblies, conventions, and coun-
cils of safety of the several states, which have any regiments now in the con-
tinental service, either at New-York, Ticonderoga, or New-Jersey, that they
forthwith appoint committees to proceed to those places, with full powers to ap-
point all the officers of the regiments to be raised by their states under the new
establishment, that such officers may proceed immediately to inlist such men
as are now in the service, and incline to re-inlist during the war, and that
such committees be instructed to advise with the general officers, and promote
such officers as have distinguished themselves for their abilities, activity, and
jº in the service, and especially for their attention to military disci-
IIle.
That the said committees be also instructed not to appoint any officer, who
has left, or shall leave his station in the army, and is absent without leave from
the general, or some other officer having authority to grant the same.
Ordered, That a copy of the above resolutions be sent to each of the United
States. &
Congress resumed the consideration of the reports of the committee on the
general’s letters, and of that which went to the camp : Whereupon,
Resolved, That, for the farther encouragement of the non-commissioned of-
ficers and soldiers who shall engage in the service during the war, a suit of
clothes be annually given each of the said officers and soldiers, to consist, for
the H. year, of two linen hunting shirts, two pair of overalls, a leathern or
woollen waistcoat with sleeves, one pair of breeches, a hat or leathern cap, two
shirts, two pair of hose, and two pair of shoes, amounting, in the whole, to the
value of twenty dollars, or that sum to be paid to each soldier, who'shall pro-
cure those articles for himself, and produce a certificate thereof, from the cap-
tain of the company to which he belongs, to the pay-master of the regiment.
Pesolved, That it be recommended to the assemblies and conventions of the
respective states, from Virginia to New-Hampshire, inclusively, to take the
most effectual measures for completing, by the 10th of November, their propor-
tions of the levies to be raised during the war.
As the army has greatly suffered through the defect of some of its regimen-
tal officers,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the assemblies and conventions of the
respective states, to use their utmost endeavors that all the officers to be here-
after appointed, be men of honor and known abilities, without a particular re-
gard to their having before been in service.
510 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
—A
Resolved, That the further consideration of the reports be postponed till to-
ImOl'l’OW.
The secret committee having informed Congress that a vessel was arrived
with sundry articles by them imported on account of the continent,
Ordered, That the said committee deliver to the board of war such articles
as are suitable for the army, and to the marine committee such as are for the
navy, and to Mr. J. Mease such as are for clothing, to be made up for the sol-
diers.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to morrow.
WEDNESDAY, October 9, 1776.
Two letters of the 3d, from general Schuyler, with'sundry papers enclosed,
were laid before Congress, and read :
Ordered, That they be referred to the board of war, and that the letters here-
tofore received from general Washington, general Schuyler, and the other ge-
neral officers, be lodged in the war office.
Resolved, That two months’ pay be advanced to major Pierre Francois de
Bois, he to be accountable.
A petition from Jean Baccarere and his partner, was read, and referred to
the marine committee.
Application being made in behalf of captain Dirks, late from Surinam, to be
taken into the service of the continent, as an engineer,
Resolved, That he be referred to the board of war.
The committee appointed to prepare the form of a bond to be given by gene-
ral Lee, for the 30,000 dollars advanced to him, brought in a draught, which
was read and agreed to.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee who went
to the camp; Whereupon,
Resolved, That no regimental hospitals be, for the future, allowed in the
neighborhood of the general hospital :
That John Morgan, esq. provide and superintend an hospital, at a proper
distance from the camp, for the army posted on the east side of Hudson’s river.
That William Shippen, jun. esq. provide and superintend an hospital for the
army, in the state of New-Jersey :
That each of the hospitals be supplied by the respective directors with such a
number of surgeons, apothecaries, surgeons’ mates, and other assistants, and
also such quantities of medicines, bedding, and other necessaries, as they shall
judge expedient :
That they make weekly returns to Congress and the commander in chicſ, of
the officers and assistants of each denomination, and also the numbers of sick
and deceased in their respective hospitals :
That the regimental surgeons be directed to send to the general hospitals
such officers and soldiers of their respective regiments, as, being confined by
wounds or other disorders, shall require nurses or constant attendance, and,
from time to time, to apply to the quarter-master general, or his deputy, for
convenient wagons for this purpose ; also, that they apply to the directors in
their respective departments, for medicines and other necessaries:
That the wages of nurses be augmented to one dollar a week:
That the commanding officer of each regiment be directed, once a week, to
send a commissioned officer to visit the sick of his respective regiment in the
general hospital, and report their state to him :
That a commissary of clothing be appointed for each of the armies of the
United States, whose duty shall be to make constant returns to the assemblies
or conventions of the respective states, of the clothing wanted for their se-
yeral regiments, to receive and pay for the same, to deliver it to the pay-mas-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 511
*—º-
ters of the respective regiments, to be by them distributed to the non-commis-
sioned officers and soldiers, and deducted from their wages respectively, unless
allowed as a bounty by order of Congress:
That the commissary-general be empowered to appoint as many conductors
for the commissary of stores, and assistants to the commissary y clothing, as
he shall, from time to time, judge necessary, and report their names to Congress:
That there be a deputy commissary of stores for the army at New-York,
with the pay of thirty dollars a month.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be postponed till to-
Jºlorl’OW.
Ordered, That the board of war send 300 lb. of powder to col. Mark Bird,
to prove the cannon he has made for the United States.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, October 10, 1776.
A petition from capt. Daniel Morgan, and one from capt. Smith, lieut. Steel
and lieut. Nichols, late returned from Canada, were read.
Ordered, That they be referred to the board of treasury, who are directed
to liquidate and settle the accounts enclosed in the said petitions, and to pay
º allow for such arms as were lost or taken by the enemy in the assault on
uebec.
A petition from Frederick Seegar was read, praying for leave to resign his
office of quarter-master to the German battalion:
Itesolved, That leave be granted. *
A petition from John Melchior Neff, and one from Paul Fooks, were read,
and referred to the board of war.
The marine committee having recommended captain Abraham Whipple, of
the ship Columbus, to the command of the Providence frigate, at Rhode-Island,
Resolved, That he be promoted accordingly.
The committee farther reported, that they have had under consideration the
rank of the captains of the navy, and agreed to a report, which was read;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the rank of the captains be as follows:
1. Jas. Nicholson, of the Virginia, of 28 guns; 15. William Hallock, Lexington 16 guns;
2. John Manly, - Hancock, 32 16. H. Hacker, - Hamden,
3. Hector M'Neil, - Boston, 24, 17. Isaiah Robinson, Andrew
4. Dudley Saltonstall, Trumbull, 28 Doria, tº sº - 14
5. Nicholas Biddle, Randolph, 32 18. John Paul Jones, Providence, 12
6. Thomas Thompson, Raleigh, 32 29. James Josiah,
7. John Barry, - Fffingham, 28 20. Flisha Hinman, Alfred, 28
8. Thomas Reed, - Washington, 32 21. Joseph Olney, Cabot, 16
9. Thomas Gremmall, Congress, 28 22. James Robinson, Sachem, IO
10. Charles \lexander, Delaware, 24 23. John Young, Indepen-
11. Lambert Wickes, Reprisal, 16 dence, * wº - 10
12. Abraham Whipple, Providence, 28 4. Elisha Warner, Fly
13. John Hopkins, Warren, 32 Lieut. Baldwin, Wasp, 8
14. John Hodge, Montgomery, 24 Lieut. Albertson, Musquito, 4.
Resolved, That the marine committee be empowered to settle the rank of the
lieutenants of the navy.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare the form of an
oath to be taken by the officers of the army and navy:
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Stone, and Mr. Paine.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Schuyler be directed to take such steps as are ne-
°ºry, for prºcuring a sufficient number of as large vessels as the navigation
of the lakes will admit of, for the service of the states the next campaign, that
the command of the lakes may be effectually secured:
5 12 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
That William Patten be appointed third lieutenant in colonel Hand's regi-
ment, in the place of lieutenant Clark, resigned :
That the regimental pay-masters in the army of the United States, have the
rank of first lieutenants, and receive rations as captains:
That general Washington be directed to negotiate with general Howe, an
exchange of the officers returned from Canada, and that they have a prefer-
rence to those taken on New-York island and Long-Island:
That general Washington be directed, if he shall judge it necessary, to sink
the new ships mentioned in his letter of the 5th instant.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be postponed.
The committee to whom was referred the case of William Faulkner, brought
in a report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
kº. That William Faulkner, a prisoner confined at Reading, be per-
mitted to return to his family in Tryon county, upon giving his parole.
The committee appointed to devise a plan for providing carriages, &c. brought
in a report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon, *
Resolved, That the quarter-masters in every department be ordered to
avoid pressing horses and carriages, as much as possible; and when it is neces-
sary, that they be directed to go to the country houses for that purpose, and
discharge, as soon as the service will admit, such horses and carriages so im-
pressed ; and that no violence whatever be done to any persons, their horses or
carriages, who go to the camp of their own accord, to sell provisions, or other
necessaries of any kind.
An application from the council of safety of Pennsylvania was laid before
Congress, and read, desiring that a committee of Congress may be appointed
to confer with a committee of their body, on the expediency of having troops
stationed near the city of Philadelphia, for the defence of Pennsylvania.
Ordered, That the board of war confer with the committee of the council of
safety, on the subject proposed.
A petition from William Mackay was read, praying for leave to return home:
Ordered, That the prayer of the petition be granted.
IResolved, That the following promotions and appointments be made in the
Virginia battalions, viz.
William Crawford, colonel of the 7th; commission to be dated the 14th of
August:
Josiah Parker, lieutenant-colonel of the 5th ; commission to be dated the 13th
of August:
Thomas Elliott, colonel of the 4th; commission to be dated the 3d of Sep-
tember.
James Hendricks, lieutenant-colonel of the 6th ; commission to be dated the
13th of August:
John Markham, major of the 2d ; commission to be dated the 13th of August:
John Seayres, major of the 4th; commission to be dated the 13th of August:
George Johnston, major of the 5th; commission to be dated the 13th of August:
Richard Parker, jun. major of the 6th; commission to be dated the 13th of
August: *
William Taliaferro, major of the 3d ; commission to be dated the 13th of
August:
john Taylor, captain in the 1st; commission to be dated the 29th of April :
John Chilton, captain in the 3d ; commission to be dated the 29th of April
John Blackwell, 1st lieut. in do. commission to be dated the 29th of April:
Joseph Blackwell, 2d lieut. in do. commission to be dated the 29th of April :
John Ashby, captain in the 3d ; commission to be dated the 18th of March :
William Neilson, 1st lieutenant; commission to be dated the 18th of March:
Isham Keith, 2d do. commission to be dated the 18th of March : .
Nathaniel Ashby, ensign in the 3d; commission to be dated the 18th of March:
Journals of CONGRESS, 1776. 513
-
Charles Read, an ensign, in the room of Robert Dade. es
Resolved, That commissions be made out to all the officers of the regiments
in the service of the United States, who have been appointed in the places of
others resigning and promoted, and bear dates the days on which the resigna-
tions and promotions were respectively made.
A memorial from George Measam was presented to Congress, and read:
Ordered, To lie on the table. •
Resolved, That three members be added to the committee of clothing, in the
room of those who are absent:
The members chosen, Mr. Witherspoon, Mr. Stone and Mr. Penn.
Congress took into consideration the report of the board of war of the 19th
of September; Whereupon, º
Resolved, That the inhabitants of Canada, captivated by the United States,
and not taken in arms, be released and sent home, except St. Luke la Corn
and Mons. Rouville, the elder, upon this condition, that they sign a parole not
to take up arms against the United States, nor give intelligence to the enemies
of these states :
That a register be kept of their names. r
Ordered, #. the board of war deliver gun-powder for proving cannon made
for the United States, upon application to them for that purpose.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Joseph Donaldson, for supplies to recruits to general Lee’s guard, and
provisions to captain Grier’s company, and a guard with powder to Virginia,
20 60-90ths dollars:
To William Faulkner, a prisoner, sent by general Schuyler to Reading, for
his allowance from the 9th of April to the 7th of October, inclusive, 26 weeks,
at 2 dollars, 52 dollars:
To captain Hazlewood, captain Greenway and Mr. Bedford, a balance of
267 10-90ths dollars, their, whole account of charge for preparing six sail of
fire-ships at New-York, and their expenses going to, in, and coming from, New-
York to Philadelphia, being 392 10-90ths dollars; of which they have received
from S. Moylan, esq. quarter-master general, 125 dollars; the remainder is
267 10-90ths dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for appointing the commissaries of
clothing and deputy-commissary of stores.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, October 11, 1776.
Two letters, of the 7th and 8th, from general Washington, with sundry pa-
pers enclosed, were read: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the release of Mons. de Chambault, as proposed by general
Washington, on the request of the count D’Emery, governor-general of the
French port of St. Domingo, be agreed to:
tº: the general’s letters, with the papers enclosed, be referred to the board
Of Wall".
Resolved, That general Washington be desired, if it be practicable, by eve-
ºy art, and whatever expense, to obstruct effectually the navigation of the
North-river, between Fort-Washington and Mount-Constitution, as well to
F. the regress of the enemies’ frigates lately gone up, as to hinder them
rom receiving succours.
The secret committee informed Congress that a vessel was arrived at Rhode-
§. with Sundry articles imported by their order, for account of the United
âté.S.
Wot. F. 65
514 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
*
wº-wº-
Ordered, That the secret committee report in what manner the said goods
ought, in their opinion, to be disposed of.
Resolved, That Mr. S. Collins be requested to order the tents fit for use,
which belonged to William Barrel, lately deceased, to be delivered to J. Mease,
for the army, and that the amount thereof be paid by Mr. Mease, on applica-
tion of Mr. Collins, or other person properly authorized for that purpose.
Ordered, That the marine committee deliver over to the direction of the com-
mittee of secret correspondence two of the continental cruisers now ready for
sea, to perform such voyages as they shall think necessary for the service of the
States : *
That the marine committee give orders to the remainder of the continental
cruisers, now in the port of Philadelphia, and ready for sea, to proceed on such
voyages, or perform such immediate services, as the secret committee shall di-
rect, in writing, addressed to the commanders thereof.
Resolved, That three members be added to the committee of secret corres-
pondence.
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Witherspoon, and Mr. Hooper.
The marine committee to whom was referred the account of captain Martin-
dale, brought in a report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That there be paid to capt. Sion Martindale the sum of 144 18-90
dollars, in full of expenses and disbursements on the brig Washington, and
other expenses from Halifax to Casco-Bay.
The committee of treasury reported, that Edward Snikers, of Virginia, pro-
duced an account of rifles and other articles, furnished for the use of colonel
Stevenson’s battalion, amounting to £347 4, Virginia currency, of which cap-
tain Abraham Sheppard is to account for £67 15, and the remainder, being
£2799, to be charged to the said battalion ; that the said Snikers give credit
for £64 16, money aforesaid, received from colonel Stevenson, the balance
due to the said Snikers being £282 8, equal to 941 30-90 dollars, to be paid
to Thomas Rutherford :
That William Brady, of colonel Stevenson's battalion, drew an order on co-
lonel Valentine Crawford, one of the executors of the late colonel Stevenson,
for the use of the said battalion, for the sum of 150 dollars, which order was
paid by the said W. Crawford, and that he ought to be reimbursed the same,
which is to be charged to the said Brady :
That they have had under consideration the accounts of captain Daniel Mor-
gan, amounting, with his own and three lieutenants’ pay, the loss of rifles when
he was taken at the storm of Quebec, expenses of recruiting his company, re-
pairing guns which he is charged with, and ought to be allowed, in the whole,
to 1389 80-90 dollars :
That the said Morgan credits the several charges against him in the conti-
nental books, amounting to 1614 83-90 dollars ; by which there appears to be
a balance due to the public of 224 184-90 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid and credited, agreeable to the said
report.
º petition from William Jenkins was read, and referred to the board of
treasury. t
Resolved, That general Washington be empowered to appoint a deputy com-
missary of stores for the army near New-York.
The committee appointed to prepare the form of an oath, to be taken by the
officers of the army and navy, brought in the same, which was read: !
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That a member be added to the marine committee, in the room of
Mr. Hopkins.
The member chosen, Mr. Ellery.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 515
MONDAY, October 14, 1776.
A letter of the 12th, from general Lee; one of the 10th, from general Mer-
cer; one, of the 30th September, from general Gates; one, of the 1st instant,
from Joseph Trumbull, advising that he has drawn on the president in favor of
Thomas Lowry, for 60,000 dollars; and one, of the 7th, from general Wash-
ington, enclosing a letter from Dr. Morgan, were read.
Ordered, That the letters from generals Lee and Mercer be referred to the
board of war :
That the letter from Dr. Morgan be referred to the medical committee.
A petition from Francis Mentges was read and referred to the board of war.
The board of war, to whom were referred the letters from general Washing-
ton, of the 7th and 8th instant, brought in a report, which was taken into con-
sideration : Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Washington be informed the Congress approve of
his appointing P. Penett his aid-de-camp by brevet, and that a commission of
aid-de-camp be accordingly transmitted to him : º
That the several states in which prisoners have been lodged, be desired to
furnish Congress with an account of such expenses as have been incurred by the
said states, respectively, on account the said prisoners:
That the sum of 500,000 dollars be immediately sent to the pay-master ge-
neral, that he may be enabled to pay the bounty to such of the troops as shall re-
inlist, to serve during the war.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be postponed.
The committee appointed to hear and determine upon the appeal brought
against the sentence passed on the libel, Joshua Wentworth vs. the ship Eliza-
beth, reports as follows:
“Joshua Wentworth esq. for and in behalf as well of the United States of
America, as of John Manly, Daniel Waters and John Ayres, commanders;
and the officers, marines and mariners, of the three armed vessels Hancock,
Lee and Lynch, in the service of the said states, having exhibited a libel be-
fore Joshua Brackett, esq. judge of the court maritime of the state of New-
Hampshire, against the brigantine Elizabeth, commanded by Peter Ramsay,
and her cargo, and Richard Hart, of Portsmouth, in New-Hampshire, owner of
the said brigantine, and William Jackson and others, of Boston, in the state
of Massachusetts-Bay, owners of sundry goods and merchandise on board of
her, having put in their several claims thereto, and the said judge of the court
aforesaid, having, on the 21st day of August, in the year of our Lord 1776,
decreed and ordered the said brigantine, and so much of her cargo as was
claimed to be restored to the respective claimants, and that the claimants re-
cover their legal costs of court, from which decree and sentence the said
Joshua Wentworth appealed to Congress,”
The committee of Congress, to whom it was referred to hear and determine
the said appeal, have diligently inspected the proceedings, and heard the parties
by their counsels, and it appearing that on the 1st day of October, in the year
of our Lord 1775, general Gage, commander in chief of the British forces,
then in Boston, in the state of Massachusetts-Bay, by his commission to Crean
Brush, esq., directed him to receive into his care, all such goods, chattels, and
effects of the inhabitants of that town, some of whom had departed from it, as
might be voluntarily delivered into his charge by the owners, or by other per-
sons with whom they were left, giving his receipt for them and to deliver them
to the owners, when he should be required; that, on the 10th day of March
then, follºwing, general Howe, who had succeeded general Gage in the com-
mand of the British forces, by his commission to the said Cream Brush, recit-
ing, that is he was informed there were large quantities of goods in Boston,
which, if in the possession of the rebels (as he termed the Americans) might enº
l
516 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
-------------
able them to carry on war, and that he had given notice to all loyal inhabitants
to remove such goods from thence, and that those who would not remove them,
or deliver them to the care of the said Crean Brush, would be considered as
abettors of rebels, required him to take into his possession all such goods as
answered that description, and give certificates to the owners that he had re-
ceived them for their use, and would deliver them to the owners, unavoidable
accidents excepted, and to seize any such goods, as, upon enquiry, should be
found secreted, or left in stores, and put them on board of the Minerva ship,
or brigantine Elizabeth. That, thereupon, the said Crean Brush, assisted by
other persons, took into his possession the goods of the claimants, amongst
others, and put them into the said brigantine Elizabeth, and other vessels in
the harbour of Boston, without the knowledge of some of the owners, and
without the consent of all the others, unless it be William Jackson and James
Jackson, of whose consent, however, there are no other proofs, than that one
of them went with his goods, and watched there on the wharf from whence
they were shipped, and that the other was a passenger in the said brigantine
Elizabeth, in her voyage towards Halifax. That the said Crean Brush, by
certificates under his hands, acknowledged several parcels of the goods to be
in his custody, and engaged to presere). them safely, to make up exact in-
voices thereof, and, with the approbation of the commander in chief, to return
them to the owners. That, on the 29th day of March afterwards, the said
Peter Ramsay, by orders from admiral Shuldham, of the British fleet, given
about eight days before, went on board the said brigantine Elizabeth, into which
some of the claimants’ goods had been shifted from the other vessels; and the
same day, between the hours of three and four in the afternoon, sailed with
her, under convoy of the British ship of war Niger, for Halifax, in Nova-
Scotia, and that, on the Tuesday following, the said John Manly, in the Han-
cock, coming up with the said brigantine Elizabeth, which had, in the mean
time, parted from her convoy, fired a broadside at her, which was returned by
a volley of small arms; when the said Daniel Waters, in the Lee, and the said
John Ayres, in the Lynch, joining the said John Manly, the said Peter Ramsay
struck, it being about four or five of the clock in the afternoon, and the said
brigantine was seized and carried into Piscataqua river in New-Hampshire;
whereupon, the committee, after mature deliberation, are of opinion, that the
said brigantine Elizabeth is not comprehended in the description of vessels,
which, with their cargoes, by the resolutions of Congress of the 25th day of
November last, may be forfeited, not being an armed or a transport vessel
employed in the present war against the United States, nor carrying provisions,
or other necessaries, to the British army or navy, within any of the United
Colonies: and that the cases of re-captures, mentioned in the resolution of
Congress of the 5th day of December last, adjusting the proportions of sal-
vage, those cases only were intended, in which the vessels and their cargoes
remaining in possession of the enemy, might, by the law of nations, be con-
demned as prize, which is conceived not to be the case with the said brigantine
Elizabeth and her cargo; but, that notwithstanding it was the duty of the re-
captors to recover the said brigantine and her cargo, and that the owners, who
otherwise might, and probably would, have lost their whole property, ought to
make a reasonable satisfaction; and that, therefore, the said sentence is er-
roneous, and ought to be reversed and annulled: That the said brigantine
Elizabeth, and such parts of her cargo as were claimed in the said court-mari:
time, be restored to the respective ãº. upon their paying, to the United
States, and the re-captors, 1-12th part of the value thereof, to be determined
by the appraisement of appraisers on oath, appointed by the judge of the said
court: "That the residue of the cargo be sold, and the proceeds, after deduct-
ing the like proportion and for the same uses, retained for the persons who
shall hereafter prove their right to the same ; that William Burk, commander,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. * 517
and the marines and mariners of the Warren, an armed vessel in the service
of the United States, who claimed a part of the said brigantine Elizabeth and
her cargo, as being joint captors, are not entitled to a share of the salvage, it
not appearing that they were present, or in sight, at the time of the re-capture:
And that the appellants recover against the claimants their costs as well in the
said court-maritime, as in the prosecution of their appeal here; and that the
cause be sent back to the said court-maritime, for that court to proceed in
carrying this sentence into execution.”
And the said report being read, was agreed to.
Resolved, That such part of the twelfth, adjudged in the foregoing report
to be paid in lieu of salvage, as belongs to the United States, be released, and
given up to the owners of the goods.
The committee on the state of the prisoners, brought in a report, which was
read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
The board of treasury, for the more regular settlement of accounts, pro-
posed sundry queries to Congress: Whereupon,
Resolved, "That no allowance be made to officers for any arms lost or taken
from them by the enemy :
That no officer, holding two appointments in the continental army, be paid
for more than one, after notice was given to the commanders of the respective
armies, of the resolution of Congress against officers holding double com-
missions.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to devise ways and
means for supplying the treasury with a ſarther sum of money :
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. Hall.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed, to consider what is to be
done with negroes taken by vessels of war, in the service of the United States:
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. R. H. Lee, and Mr. Huntington.
Resolved, That 600 dollars be advanced to Mr. R. Erwin, wagon-master;
he to be accountable.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to order the Virginia troops,
on their march to New-York, to halt at Trenton, till farther orders.
Resolved, That the colonels of the New-Jersey militia, make out regular
pay-rolls of such of the troops as have been under their command, when call-
ed into the continental service, and have not been paid by the convention of
the said state:
That such rolls be attested by the oaths of the commanding officer and cap-
tains of the respective regiments, and paid by warrants on the pay-master.
there, by general Mercer, or the commanding officer in that department; he
paying due attention to the resolutions of Congress transmitted herewith :
That one penny a mile be allowed, in lieu of rations, to such men as have
paid their expenses while on their march to and from the camp, from and to
their respective homes.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, October 15, 1776.
A letter of the 11th, 12th, and 13th, from general Washington; one, of the
10th, from general Lee; one, of the 10th, from general Schuyler; one, of the
same date, from general Green ; one, of the 9th, from J oseph Trumbull; one,
of the 4th, from Seth Warner; and, one of the same date, from brigadier-ge-
neral Lewis, were read:
Ordered, That the letters from general Washington and general Lee, and
Mr. Trumbull, be referred to the board of war:
518 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
That the letter from general Green be referred to the medical committee,
and the letter from general Lewis to the board of treasury.
Application being made to Congress by John Foxcroft, esq. for leave to go
to New-York, to remove his family from the horrors of war, and relieve
them from the distress in which they are at present involved :
Resolved, That leave be granted him, upon giving his parole to the board of
war; but he is not to set out on his journey before next week.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration :
Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Gates be informed, that Congress have it not in
their power at present to supply him with the artillery he desires, but will pro-
cure such as soon as possible :
That two independent companies, consisting of 50 men each, be immediate-
ly raised, to be commanded by lieutenant Whitecombe, who should be ap-
pointed captain-commandant; that he nominate the officers of the said two
companies, who are to be appointed when approved of by the commanding
officer in the northern department.
Resolved, That the further consideration of the report be postponed.
William Davies, who was appointed deputy muster-master general of the
flying-camp, having requested leave to resign that commission,
Resolved, That leave be granted, and that to-morrow be assigned for ap-
pointing a deputy muster-master general for the flying-camp.
Resolved, That 27 dollars be advanced to the captain of the guard appointed
to attend the wagons carrying goods to Ticonderoga.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due to the following per-
sons, the sum of 913 43-90 dollars; for which an order is to be drawn in favor
of Thomas Armour, viz.
To Peter Schlemmer, for victualling the militia on their march to New-
Jersey, wº * * ſº * Dollars, 43 42-90ths.
To Frederick Rummel, for ditto, *-º wº- *- : 65 49
To William Thompson, victualling gen. Lee's guard, - 50 71
To Elizabeth Kuntz, victualling militia, &c. * * 64 51
To George Stahe, for ditto, sº * * 86 54
To Adam Gartner, ditto, and sick soldiers, sº * 260 86
To sundries for supplying the militia, and general Lee’s guard, 47 49
To Elizabeth Robinson, for ditto, * 12 48
To Andrew Nebbenger, for ditto, gº; tºº tº 39 86 !
To Godlup Zegel, for ditto, to gen. Lee’s guard, - sº- 9 19
To Zacharias Sturgent, for ditto, * wº * 8 67
To Martin Brenesey, for ditto, - * * * 40
To Frederick Rumble, for ditto, * * * 72 33
To Jacob Bushong, for ditto, º sº * * 58 27
To Daniel Kyser, for ditto, wº sº º º 29 66
To And. Horzeg, for repairing arms of ditto, sº tºº 23 15
The whole amounting to - Dollars, 913 43-90ths.
To Baltzar Spangler, and to be paid to Thomas Armour, for victualling a
part of gen. Lee’s guard, nursing in the small-pox, &c. at York-town, and for
provisions to militia, 158 dollars and 12-90ths:
To lieut. Francis Nichols, of the late capt. Hendrick's company, for two
months’ pay extraordinary to the following officers, viz.
To the late captain Hendricks, killed at the assault of Quebec, ; 53 30-90ths.
To lieutenant John M'Cleland, who died on the march to ditto, 36
To the said lieutenant Nichols, º tºp gº 36
For the use of the executors of capt. Hendrick’s inlisting mo-
mey, when the company was raised, 85, at 1 dollar and 1-8d each, 113 30
The whole amounting to * $238 60
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 519
—A-
That there should be advanced to lieut. Francis Nichols, for the purpose of
paying the soldiers of his company returned from Quebec, the sum of 1753
dollars and 30-90ths, until he can settle the accounts of the company; for
which he is to be charged :
Ordered, That the said sums be paid.
Resolved, That two members be added to the committee of treasury:
The members, chosen, Mr. Wythe and Mr. Smith.
The secret committee brought in a report on the distribution of the cargo
lately arrived at Providence, Rhode-Island, in the brig Happy Return; Where-
upon, -
"hºisa, That a copy of the invoice of the cloths and blankets be sent to
general Mifflin, quarter-master general, with an order to Messrs. Browns, of
Rhode-Island, to deliver the whole to his order, and that it be recommended to
the said quarter-master general, to have the cloths immediately made up for
the soldiers, either in Rhode-Island, Connecticut, or by the taylors in the army,
as may be thought best by general Washington and himself:
That Messrs. Browns be directed to deliver to the continental agent, at
Rhode-Island, the remaining part of the cargo, with orders to apply the lead,
bullets, flints, muskets and powder, to the use of the continental frigates and
cruisers, or such part thereof as may be wanted for that service, and the rest
to remain for future orders:
That the said agent be directed to buy as much good fat beef and pork, as
can be cured by the salt in his possession, for the use of the navy:
That the agent be directed to forward the sulphur of the said cargo to the
powder mills in Connecticut and Rhode-Island, and the five tons of salt-
petre, formerly sent by Congress from Philadelphia to Rhode-Island, from
thence to the powder-mills of Messrs. Livingston and Wisner, on the North-
River, in the state of New-York, to be manufactured into gun-powder, for the
continental service.
Resolved, That 40,000 dollars be sent to R. Dallam, esq. deputy pay-master
general, for the use of the flying-camp and militia; he to be accountable.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, October 16, 1776.
A letter, of the 9th, from E. Pendleton, speaker of the assembly of Virginia;
one, of the 11th, from T. Jefferson, were read:
Also, a letter of the 12th, from Jos. Trumbull, wherein he informs Congress,
that he has empowered Carpenter Wharton to purchase salt to the westward of
New-Jersey, and as much pork, for the use of the army, as salt can be had for,
and requests that Mr. Wharton may be supplied with such sums of money as
may be necessary for this purpose, and charged to the accounts of him the said
J. Trumbull:
£esolved, That Mr. Wharton be supplied accordingly.
£esolved, That 16,803 dollars and '6-90ths be paid to brigadier-general
Mifflin, or order, and charged to the account of Jon. Trumbull, jun. Esq. de-
Puty Pay-master general in the northern department; the same being in full of a
draught in his favor, by John Pierce, assistant pay-master, in behalf of the said
Jon. Trumbull, dated Albany, October 7, 1776, for so much stopped for him
from the pay of the several regiments at Ticonderoga, by the said pay-master.
Congress proceeded to the election of a commissary of clothing for the
northern army; and, the ballots being taken,
George Measam was elected.
. Resolved, That George Measam be allowed the pay and rations of a major
in the continental service.
Resolved, That the commander in chief of the northern department, appoint
Suitable persons to appraise, on oath, and deliver to the said commissary, all
520 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
–º
---"
articles of clothing there, belonging to the United States, and transmit his re-
ceipts, with the appraisement, to the treasury-office in Philadelphia:
That the said commissary employ suitable persons to make the clothing, and
add to the appraised value of the goods, the charges of making; and that he de-
liver the same to the regimental pay-masters, agreeable to the orders he may
receive from the commander aforesaid. w
Resolved, That general Washington be empowered to appoint a commissary
of clothing for the army under his immediate command, and that he be also
empowered to appoint a deputy muster-master for the fl Ying camp.
Resolved, That one ton of powder be sent to North-Carolina, for the use of
the continental forces in that state.
A letter, of the 1st of October, from John Roche, was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the marine committee, and that they do there-
in what they shall think proper.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the state of
the prisoners; Whereupon,
Resolved, That William Livingston, esq. governor of New-Jersey, be in-
formed, that Congress have considered his letter relative to certain prisoners
confined in Sounerset gaol, and being unacquainted either with their characters,
or the causes of their being apprehended, request him to enquire into the same,
and report to Congress their names and characters:
That soldiers and sailors, confined in gaol, be hereafter allowed one dollar
and #d a week; the allowance of one dollar being found insufficient to sup-
port them comfortably.
Resolved, That the remainder of the report be recommitted.
The marine committee, to whom was referred the petition of B. Marshall &
Brothers, and certain propositions from the state of Massachusetts-Bay, brought
in their report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That what relates to B. Marshall & Brothers be postponed to
Wednesday the 23d instant.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the general court of Massachusetts-
Bay, to give the continental agent the full weight of their influence to make
the frigate Hancock ready for sea immediately; that whatever expense shall
accrue to the state of Massachusetts-Bay, either for procuring guns or other
stores for fitting the said frigate, shall be reimbursed on demand; and that, in
directing the cruise of the said frigate, the Congress will pay all the regard to
the protection of the commerce or Massachusetts-Bay, that the zeal of that
state, in the common cause, justly entitles it to.
A petition from capt. C. Roberts was read, and referred to Mr. Walton, Mr.
Hopkinson, and Mr. F. L. Lee, who are directed to enquire into the facts there-
in set forth, and report to Congress.
A memorial from the chevalier d’Antignac was read, and referred to the
board of war.
A memorial from colonel D. Campbell was read; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the commanding officer in the northern department be de-
sired to confirm or disapprove the sentence of the court-martial on colonel D.
Campbell, as he, upon mature judgment, shall think proper, and report to Con-
SºreSS,
° whereas sundry prizes have been heretofore taken by the cruisers fitted
out by general Washington, at the continental expense, and on continental ac-
counts, and no accounts thereof have yet been rendered by the agents who re-
ceived and sold the said prizes; and, whereas, a just distribution of such shares
of the said prizes as are due to the officers and men, agreeable to the rules and
regulations of Congress, ought to be made ; º
Resolved, That the marine committee be empowered to order such distri:
bution of the said prize-money amongst the parties interested therein; and
that they recover from the said agents the continental share of all the said prizes:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 521
That the present continental agents do account with the marine committee”
from time to time, for the continental share of all prizes received and sold by
them, and that they pay the amount of such prizes to the order of the said
committee:
That the said agents make just distributions of the shares in all prizes that
appertain to the officers and crews of the continental ships of war, agreeable
to the rules and regulations of Congress, as soon after the sales of each prize
as possible:
That the marine committee apply all the prize-money they receive from the
agents, to the service of the marine department, and hereafter render accounts
thereof to Congress:
That the marine committee report, from time to time, all sums of money
they receive for prizes to the treasury, in order that the same may be charged
to their account in the treasury-books.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due, e
To capt. Sion Martindale and lieutenant Moses Turner, for their pay and
rations from the 1st of January to the 14th of October, 1776, the sum of 572
76-90ths dollars.
Ordered, That the said account be paid.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THIURSDAY, October 17, 1776.
A petition from Henry Keppele was laid before Congress, and read, setting
forth, that he hath entered an appeal against the sentence passed on the ship
Charming-Peggy, and praying that a convenient day may be assigned for hear-
ing the said appeal : f
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed, with full power to hear
and determine upon said appeal :
The members chosen, Mr. Huntington, Mr. Paine, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Smith,
and Mr. Wilson.
Resolved, That a committee of four be appointed to review such of the re-
solutions of Congress as relate to the capture and condemnation of prizes, and
report what alterations or additions should be made respecting the same:
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Rutledge, Mr. Paine, and Mr.
Huntington. -
A petition from Carpenter Wharton was read:
Resolved, That it be referred to the council of safety of Pennsylvania.
Resolved, That a commissary be appointed to supply the battalion, command-
ed by colonel Mackay, with provisions; the ballots being taken,
Ephraim Blaine, esq. was elected.
Resolved. That Francis Lewis, jun, be permitted to go to the state of New-
York with Mr. Foxcroft.
The committee, to whom the report on the sate of the prisoners in the gaol
of Philadelphia, was re-committed, brought in a farther report, which was taken
into consideration ; Whereupon,
Resolved...That the prisoners from North-Carolina be permitted to return
to their families, if the convention of that state shall be of opinion they may so
do, without danger to that or any other of the United States; and, in the mean
time, that bedding, blankets, and other necessaries, be furnished the gaoler, by
Mr. Mease, for the use of such prisoners as are unprovided with them:
That capt. M'Kenzie be permitted to apply to the state of North Carolina
for liberty to return there; and, in the mean time, that he be allowed ten dol-
lars to bear his expenses to Lancaster county:
That lieutenant M'Clean, an half-pay officer, taken in Canada, be permitted
to reside at Reading on his parole.
VoI. I. 66
522 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
Resolved, That a committee of intelligence be appointed to select and report
such authentic accounts, as are, from time to time, received by Congress, of
the state of the armies and navy of the United States, as they siaſ judge
proper to be published by authority of Congress:
The members chosen, Mr. Rush, Mr. R. H. Lee, and Mr. Hopkinson.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to bring in a plan for the better
regulating the treasury board: i
The members chosen, Mr. Gerry, Mr. Livingston, and Mr. Hopkinson.
Mr. Duche having, by letter, informed the president, that the state of his
health, and his parochial duties, were such, as obliged him to decline the hon-
our of continuing chaplain to Congress,
Fesolved, That the president return the thanks of this house to the Rev.
Mr. Duche, for the devout and acceptable manner in which he discharged his
duty during the time he officiated as chaplain to it; and that 150 dollars be
presented to him, as an acknowledgment from the house of his services.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To captain A. H. Brice, for his allowance as an officer-prisoner, from 19th
April, to 17th October, 1776, inclusive, being 26 weeks, at 2 dollars a week,
52 dollars:
To captain Thomas Hesketh, for his allowance from 20th July to 19th Oc-
tober, 13 weeks, at 2 dollars a week, 26 dollars:
To George Haas, for the hire of his wagon and his expenses with money from
Philadelphia to Boston, the sum of 131 24-90 dollars:
..To colonel Hausegger, for the expenses of himself and two prisoners from
Ticonderoga to Philadelphia, 57 9-90 dollars:
. To capt. Matthew Smith, to be paid to lieut. Archibald Steel, for inlisting
his company, consisting of 80 men, at 1 dollar and #d each, 106 60-90 dollars:
That they have examined the accounts exhibited by lieut. Archibald Steel,
of capt. Smith’s company, for the pay of 34 officers, and of adjutant Christian
Febiger, taken prisoners at Quebec, amounting to 1575 30-90 dollars, (exclusive
of the pay of one serjeant, one corporal and 12 privates, who inlisted in the
service of the king of Great-Britain, amounting to 476 60-90 dollars which is
, retained) of which he received from Mr. J. Mease, the sum of 314 80-90 dol-
lars, which leaves a balance due to the said Steel of 1261 dollars:
That there is due, to George Steyer, for linens furnished, and to be charged
to capt. John Nelson for the use of his company, 24 dollars:
To Adam Zantzinger, for the hire of two wagons, and the expense of an
escort of light-horse with money from Philadelphia to the camp, near New-
York, 150 60-90 dollars :
To William Clayton, for provisions supplied militia on their march to New-
Jersey, 24.27-90 dollars:
To John Bates, for 499 camp-kettles delivered by him to Gustavus Risberg,
assistant to the deputy quarter-master general, 665 30-90 dollars:
To William Bentley, to be paid to col. Stricker, for provisions supplied the
, Virginia troops on their march, 1754-90 dollars:
To Joseph Bentley, for provisions supplied the militia and flying-camp, on
their march to New-Jersey, 1972-90 dollars:
To Nicholas Bazin, a Canadian prisoner, for his allowance from 3d March to
17th October, is 32 weeks and 5-7ths, at 2 dollars a week, 65 38-90 dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, October 18, 1776.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration ;
Whereupon, g
- Resolved, That Thaddeus Kosciuszko be appointed an engineer in the ser-
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 523
f
vice of the United States, with the pay of sixty dollars a month, and the rank
of colonel.
The committee to whom the petition of col. M. Hazen was referred, brought
in their report, which was read.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, October 21, 1776.
A letter, of the 14th and 17th, from R. Harrison, the general’s secretary;
one, of the 18th, from general Washington, enclosing the copy of a letter from
general Arnold, and other papers; two, of the 17th and 19th, from gen. Mer-
cer; and one from Kenneth Hankanson, captain of a vessel stranded on the
Jersey shore; were laid before Congress, and read :
Ordered, That they be referred to the board of war.
A letter of the 13th, from R. Dallam, was also read; Whereupon,
Itesolved, That 19,740 dollars be paid to Gustavus Risberg, assistant to the
deputy quarter-master general for the flying camp, and charged to the account
of the said R. Dallam :
That 500,000 dollars be sent to Jon. Trumbull, esq. deputy pay-master ge-
neral for the northern department:
That 2,000 dollars be advanced to the delegates of North-Carolina, and
charged to that state.
A letter, of the 5th, from colonel James Easton, was read.
The secret committee having informed Congress that a vessel was arrived in
New-Hampshire, with a cargo on account of the continent, among which was
a quantity of flints, it was thereupon,
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to order 30,000 of the said
flints to general Schuyler, for the use of the army in the northern department,
and the remainder to general Washington, for the use of the army under his
immediate command.
A letter, of the 20th, from general Green, was read :
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of war, and that they be directed
to apply to the council of safety of Pennsylvania for the loan of as many car-
tridges as they can spare, which are to be sent, with all possible despatch, to
general Washington, and that they take the most effectual measures to have a
sufficient quantity of cartridges made up in Philadelphia, and forwarded to
general Washington.
Resolved, That the powder in the magazine be kept for the public service.
... Congress being informed that there is, at the i. mines in Virginia, a quan-
tity of lead for the use of the continent,
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to give orders to have it brought
to Philadelphia.
• A memorial from Monsieur Dorre was presented to Congress and read :
Ordered, That it be referred to the marine committee.
A letter, of the 20th, from R. Harrison, enclosing copies of letters from gen.
Gates and general Arnold, of the 15th, and one from general Schuyler, of the
16th; also, one of the 16th, from general Schuyler, and one of the 19th, from
the convention of New-York, being received, were read:
Ordered, That they be referred to the board of war.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the deputy commissary-general in Virginia be directed to
make contracts for the supply of the troops in that department, provided they
§an be made at a rate not exceeding eight pence, Virginia currency, a ration,
the contractors to have the use of the public wagons on any motion or march of
the army, from the place or places where stationed :
That the commander in Chief of each department be empowered, at the in-
\
5.24 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
* - - -
stance of the commissary-general, or his deputies, to employ as many persons
under him or them, at such salary or wages as he shall think adequate, and as
he may think the service, from time to time, requires: *
That the rations allowed to the several officers on the staffin the army of the
United States, not heretofore settled, be as follows, and that the deputy com-
missary of Virginia be informed thereof:
To the deputy commissary-general, 6 rations; deputy quarter-master gene-
ral, 6 do. deputy pay-master general, 6 do. deputy adjutant-general, 6 do.
deputy muster-master general, 6 do. deputy judge advocate, 6 do. chaplain, 3
do. regimental surgeon, 3 do. surgeon’s mate, 2 do. that the deputy commis-
sary-general of Virginia be allowed his reasonable travelling charges, to be
settled by the treasury board. ſ
The committee of treasury reported, that they have examined the following
accounts paid by John Gibson, esq. auditor-general, by order of the board,
amounting to 687 27-90 dollars; of which he received, by the president’s war-
rant, 500 dollars, and there remains due to him 187 27-90 dollars.
Dls. 90ths.
For parchment for the use of the treasury office, º - 2
George Hofnagle's account for 15 of the militia, - *se 1 45
John Sparhawk’s account for quills, paper-books, &c. for the use of
the commissioners sent to Albany, - - - tºº 40
Henry Deering's account for entertaining militia, * wº 16 18
Andrew Smith’s account for do. - * - - 12 78
Joseph Sheerer's account for do. paid T. Wygin - r 14 20
John Druit, for Bernard Romans’ order, to be charged to the said
Romans, - º º- º gº -> tº 16
Conrad Alster’s account for entertaining militia, - - 5 45
Philip Upright's do. for do. and guard of powder to Virginia, - 3 6
John Nice’s do. for do. º- wº *- - º 17 36
Levi Hollingsworth’s account for escorting money to Amboy, 16 75
William Perkins, for supplies to troops, - --> º 2 84
Porterage of a box with the Massachusetts papers wº tº- 6
Captain Read’s account of expenses of his company on their march
to camp, - º - - - tº - 40 72
Captain Wheely's account of do. ſº - º - 27 54
Captain M'Kenzie, for subsistence, º - - - 3 39
M. Lotbiner, a French chaplain, one month’s pay and rations, - 4, 30
-Benjamin Condy, for cake-ink, º - sºme - 6 36
Thread for the use of the office, º - †- - 15
Secretary Peter's order for transporting lieutenant Symes’s baggage, 10 80
Allen MDonald, sen. Allen M*Donald, jun. Alexander M*Donald,
Rennel M*Donald, for three weeks’ allowance to themselves, and
two servants, to 24th September, º- e- º - 36
William Ross's account of subsistence to militia, º * 9 53
Valentine Wanholt’s account of do. - º - 9 9
R. Lumsden, for wood, hauling, and sawing, -- * * * 0 22
John Streeper's account for subsisting militia, - * - 12 9
Postage of a letter from Ticonderoga, - - tº - * 49
M. Lotbiner, one month’s pay and rations, - - ... - 41 80
Allen MDonald, for the hire of a woman-servant, allowed him from
the 4th June to 24th September, 16 weeks, ". º - 16
John M. Kinzie, a prisoner from North-Carolina, his allowance from
20th September to 17th October, 4 weeks, - - - 8
Bortholomew Van Heer's account of disbursements to the army in Ca-
nada, and 6 months’ pay as lieutenant, - º - 145 3i
Uriah Forrest, captain of a company in colonel Irvine's battaliºn,
furnishing 86 men, non-commissioned officers and privates, with
*

5
2
3.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
provisions, from Annapolis to Philadelphia, 115 miles, at 1d, a mile,
each ; also to one captain and three subalterns, 115 miles at 9d.
In the whole, 121 35
Total, 687 27
Of which received, 500
The balance due, 187 27
That there is due to Robert Jewel, for the maintenance of state prisoners in
the new gaol, and for candles, &c. 489 43-90 dollars:
To the late captain William Hendrick’s company, and to be paid to lieut.
Francis Nichols of the said company, for the balance of an account for their
pay, arms lost at the storm of Quebec, hunting-shirts, &c. 1622 22-90 dollars:
To Mr. Pollard, for the expense of himself and others of the light-horse, as
º with money from Philadelphia to New-York and Boston, 291 57-90
Oilal’S :
To Jacob Hartman, for the hire of his wagon bringing the baggage of the
prisoners from Canada, from Elizabeth-town to Philadelphia, 16 60-90 dollars":
To John Hall and Samuel Parker, for cleansing and repairing 200 muskets
with bayonets, scabbards, &c. for the German battalion, 215 78-90 dollars:
To Coxe, Furman & Coxe, for carriage of powder from Philadelphia to Vir-
㺠and the pay of captain Matthias for taking charge of the same, 233 81-90
O. la TS :
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Congress took into consideration the form of the oath to be taken by the
officers in the service of the continent, which was agreed to as follows:
“ I , do acknowledge the Thirteen United States of America, namely,
New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island, Connecticut, New-York,
New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina,
South-Carolina, and Georgia, to be free, ºãº. and sovereign states,
and declare, that the people thereof owe no allegiance or obedience to George
the third king of Great-Britain; and I renounce, refuse and abjure any alle-
giance or obedience to him ; and I do swear, that I will, to the utmost of my
power, support, maintain, and defend the said United States against the said
king, George the third, and his heirs and successors, and his or their abettors,
assistants and adherants; and will serve the said United States in the office
of , which I now hold, and in any other office which I may hereafter
hold by their appointment, or under their authority, with fidelity and honor,
and according to the best of my skill and understanding. So help me God.”
Resolved, That every officer who holds, or shall hereafter hold, a commis-
sion or office from Congress, shall subscribe the above declaration, and take
the foregoing oath. t
yº, That 100,000 dollars be sent to the deputy pay-master general in
1rginia.
The several matters to this day referred being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, October 22, 1776.
º letter from general Mifflin to captain Falkner was laid before Congress
and read :
Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of three, and that they be di-
rected to engage, and send to head-quarters, a skilful, active wharf-builder,
with proper assistants:
The members chosen, Mr. Morris, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. Ross.
The cômmittee of treasury reported, that there is due,
596 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
* —3.
…º. º. ººº-º-º-º- * * * * * * * * * * * * ---
To Monsieur O. H. Rouville, his servant P. II. Beaubassin, J. B. H. de
Rouville, Joseph de Jarlais, and Joseph and Gabriel IIeiter, for their al-
lowance from the 13th of July to the 18th of October, 1776, 18660-90 dollars:
That they have examined the accounts of D. S. Franks for sundry goods
supplied the army in Canada, amounting to 3748 84-90 dollars; of which he
received a warrant of the 7th of September, for 1600 dollars, and that there is
a balance now due to him of 2148 84-90 dollars:
That there is due to Nathan Sellers, for a paper-mould, letters and borders,
39 dollars :
That there should be advanced to col. Hollingsworth, the sum of 1626 60-
90ths dollars, for supplies of rations, and wagons for the Virginia battalions,
from the Head-of-Elk to Chester; he to be accountable:
Ordered, That the said sums be paid.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That general Schuyler’s application to the eastern states, and to
the state of New York, for their militia, is approved:
That the resolution for sending home the Canadians, be suspended till far-
ther orders:
That the board of war order the several prisoners, in Philadelphia, to the
places of their destination, and that they write to the several committees, who
have the charge of prisoners, not to * them to go beyond the bounds al-
lowed them, nor to permit any of them to come to Philadelphia, without leave
first obtained from the board of war.
Resolved, That Mrs. Antil, with her child, and sister, Miss Colden, be per-
mitted to go to general Mercer, who is desired to permit them to proceed to
New-York, taking especial care, that they carry no intelligence to the enemy.
The secret committee reported, that the cargo lately arrived at Portsmouth,
in the brig Marquis of Kildare, captain Palmer, consists of the following ar-
ticles, viz. 5000 lb powder, 250 small arms, 100,000 flints, 4000 yards of small
canvass, 4 to 500 jackets, 100 knapsacks, 100 leggins, 80 large rugs, 2 bales
of woollens, 1 bale of linens, and 10 tons of lead; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the powder, 100 small arms, 2000 flints, part of the canvass,
80 rugs, and part of the lead, be applied by the continental agent for the use
of the continental frigate Rawleigh
That 60,000 flints be sent to general Washington :
That 38,000 flints, 150 small arms, 100 knapsacks, 100 leggings, and 8 tons
of lead, be sent to the northern army, under general Schuyler and general
Gates:
That the remainder of the canvass be made into tents, and sent to the
northern army :
That the jackets, if fit for soldiers, be sent to the northern army; if fit for
sailors, that they be distributed amongst the continental frigates at Portsmouth
and Boston :
That the two bales of woollens be made up into soldier’s clothes, for the
northern army: |
That the bale of linens, if fit for soldiers’ shirts, or other purposes, for the
army, be made up, and sent to the northern army; if not suitable for public use,
that they be sold to the best advantage.
The committee, to whom was referred the petition of Charles Roberts,
brought in a report, which was read, and disagreed to.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, October 23, 1776.
Congress being informed, that a vessel from London to Quebec, loaden with
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
5
2
7.
Y--I
. goods, among which are a quantity of blankets and coarse cloths, fit for
soldier’s clothing, was lately taken, and brought to Rhode-Island :
Resolved, That gov. Cooke be requested immediately to purchase, at con-
tinental expense, for the use of the army under gen. Washington, ail the said
blankets and cloths; that the blankets be sent to general Washington, and
the cloths made up, agreeable to the directions of brigadier-general Mifflin,
quarter-master general.
Ordered, That the committee of clothing forward the above resolution, and
acquaint general Washington and brigadier-general Mifflin therewith.
Itesolved That two more brigadier generals be appointed:
The ballots being taken, colonel William Maxwell, and colonel William
Smallwood, were elected.
Certain resolutions, passed by the convention of Maryland, respecting the
raising the eight battalions allotted to their state, were laid before Congress,
and read:
Ordered, That they be referred to a committee of three, who are directed to
report an answer thereto.
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Paine and Mr. Rutledge.
Resolved, That it be referred to the board of war, to consider in what way
Mons. De Roche Fermoy may be employed in the service of the continent:
That the application in favour of lieutenant Von Hederich be referred to the
board of war: /
That Samuel Fairlamb’s account be referred to the board of treasury,
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Joseph Borden, esq. for wagonage, boat-hire, &c. transporting carpen-
ters and their baggage from Philadelphia to Powleshook, after deducting two
dollars, and the sum of 23 S0-90 dollars, for the hire of a four-horse team of
William Allen, deducted for want of a voucher, and two dollars paid by capt.
Casdorp, 94 dollas.
That they have examined the account of Elihu Spencer, for his salary, as a
missionary to North-Carolina, from the 14th of December, 1775, to the 4th of
. 1776, being 4 months and 21 days, at 40 dollars a month, 186 45-90
Olial"S. \
That the said missionary ought to be allowed, in addition to his salary, 16
dollars per month, which is 75 18-90 dollars:
That he received a warrant of the 20th of December last, for 120 dollars,
and that there is now due to him, the sum of 141 63-90 dollars.
That there is due to Alexander MºWhorter, missionary to North-Carolina
for the like time, at the salary of 40 dollars, and allowance of 16 dollars a
month, after deducting 120 dollars he received, the sum of 141 68-90 dollars:
That there is due to adjutant Christian Ferbiger and lieutenant Archibald
Steel, and to be paid to the latter, for 2 months’ extraordinary pay to Ferbiger,
at 18 dollars and 1-3d, - - - - Dolls. 36 60-90ths.
For two months’ ditto, to Steel, as lieutenant, at 18 dollars, 36
For 8 months’ 22 days, to ditto, as adjutant, from the 9th of
November, to the 1st of August, 1776, at 18 dollars and 1-3d, 160 10-90ths,
The whole amounting to * Dolls. 232 70-90ths.
That there is due to John Dunlap, for 97 reams of cartridge paper, sent to
Ticonderoga, 323 dollars and 80-90ths:
To Alexander Rutherford, for 100 bayonet scabbards supplied captain R.
Falkner, of the 5th Virginia regiment, 46 dollars:
To captain Hendrick Smock, for expenses of a guard and prisoners, from
head-quarters, New-Jersey, to Philadelphia, 44 dollars and 18-90ths:
To Rene O. H. de Rouville, a Canadian prisoner, for his allowance from
the 16th January to 18th July last, 25 weeks and 5-7ths, at 2 dollars a week,
51 dollars and 38-90ths:
528 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
For his servant’s allowance, 25 weeks and 5-7ths, 34 dollars and 25-90ths:
Amounting to 85 dollars and 63-90ths:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Upon application of the delegates of Delaware,
Resolved, That 120 dollars be advanced to captain John Woodgate, of colo-
nel Patterson's battalion, he to account for the same with the pay-master of the
said battalion.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the petition
of colonel M. Hazen; Whereupon,
s Resolved, That the sum of 966 dollars and 2-3ds be paid to colonel Moses
Hazen, for his farming, smith’s and potash, carpenters, joiners, coopers, and
stave-maker’s tools, and for anchors and cables, said to be taken by, and appro-
priated to, the use of the army under general Montgomery:
That the regiment under the command of the said colonel Hazen, remain on
the original establishment thereof, and be recruited to its full complement in
any of the thirteen United States, as it was upon these terms he entered into
the service, and the said regiment cannot be said to belong to any particular
state, nor to be any additional expense in the mode of officering the same.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, October 24, 1776.
A petition from William Moore and one from William Rigg, were presented
to Congress, and read.
Ordered, That they be referred to the marine committee; and that the said
committee furnish them with subsistence during their residence in Philadelphia.
Application being made in behalf of Samuel Horlock and —- Livingston,
esq. for leave to go to Boston, and from thence back to New-York:
Resolved, That leave be granted them on giving their parole.
Resolved, That an order for 133 dollars and 1-3d, be drawn on the treasurer
in favor of R. Peters, Esq. secretary to the board of war, to pay for a light
wagon purchased for the use of the Congress, and that he be empowered to
purchase another light wagon. k
Resolved, That 500 dollars be advanced to the committee appointed to con-
tract with, and send an active wharf-builder, and proper assistants to general
Washington, for the use of the said wharf-builders.
Ivesolved, That the board of war be directed to order the Virginia battalions
to march to Trenton, and there halt until farther orders.
A representation from the council of safety of Pennsylvania to the board of
war, was laid before Congress, and read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
A memorial from D. Franks was laid before Congress and read, desiring
leave for himself, and Patrick Rice, his clerk, to go to New-York, in order to
lay his receipts and vouchers for the provisions furnished to the British prison-
ers, before the commissary-general, and obtain certificates to be presented to,
and signed by, the general of the British forces, without which he cannot be re-
imbursed.
Resolved, That leave be granted them, upon giving their parole, not to give
any intelligence to the enemy, and that they will return to this city.
A petition of Benjamin Eyre, was read.
Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Paine, and Mr. F. L. Lee.
A petition from captain Anstruther, a prisoner, and one from Simon Carbo-
lais, were read.
Resolved, That they be rejected :
Resolved, That 5000 dollars be advanced to E. Blaine, esq. for the use of the
battalion raised on the western frontiers of Pennsylvania; he to be accountable.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 529
-*. *-*.
the several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, October 25, 1776.
A letter, of the 21st, from R. H. Harrison was read; also, a certificate from
brigadier-general H. Mercer and P. Dickinson, in favour of the Rev. John
Nevelling, who officiated as chaplain to nine battalions of New-Jersey:
Ordered, That the certificate be referred to the board of treasury, and that
they enquire how long Mr. Nevelling officiated, as mentioned in the said certi-
ficate, and allow him for his services, at the rate of 50 dollars a month.
A petition from Alice Brazier and daughter, Hannah Haynes and Elizabeth
Bouve, was presented to Congress, and read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of treasury.
Resolved, That 3,000 dollars be advanced to colonel Moses Hazen towards
inlisting his battalion, he to be accountable.
A letter, of the 20th, from P. Zabriskie and J. Morgan, was read.
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of treasury.
A memorial from Mr. Irwin was presented to Congress, and read. ,
Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of three, and that they confer
with the council of safety of Pennsylvania, respecting the same, and report
thereon to Congress:
The members chosen, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. Whipple, and Mr. Hart.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Robert Chase, late commander of the Gaspe ship of war, for his allow-
ance from 1st March to 24th October, 1776, inclusive, 34 weeks, at 2 dollars,
68 dollars.
- That they have examined an account exhibited by captain Robert Cluggage,
for sundry articles charged to him, which he prays an allowance of, and that he
ought to be credited for the following sums, charged in the Bedford county ac-
counts, viz.
Drilling for haversacks, account No. 1, wº Kºº. 39
Part of articles charged in account No. 31, dº. *
Cash paid Bernard Dougherty * tº * sº
An overcharge in a rifle bought of William Peeble, gº
A charge of Abraham Cable, esq. in additional account No. 2,
Repairing arms, charged in colonel Irwin’s account, per vouchers
No. 7 and 8, * ~ º dº º $º *
Occasional expenses which he paid for his company, on their march
from Bedford to Boston gº * * Eº - "
99i
1
O
95i
The whole amounting to 82 82-90 dollars, 3831 1 10
To J. Mitchel, for expenses of a party of light-horse, going with money from
º to Ticonderoga, a balance of £32 166, and for coach-hire, ex-
enses, &c. for himself and Mr. Dunlap, as a guard with general Prescot and
rigadier-general M*Donald, and their two servants, to New-York, to be ex-
jº, #78 176, both sums amounting to £109 15, equal to 292 60-90
Ollal’S :
That there should be advanced to Mr. Hodgkin and Mr. Cronstedt, two
ºpmen, taken prisoners, three weeks’ allowance each, at 2 dollars, 12
OllarS : **
To Roger Sherman, esq. for the expenses of the committee appointed to en-
quire into the state of the army at New-York, and two servants ten days ab-
sent, 7670-90 dollars, to be paid to Elbridge Gerry, esq.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That two months’ pay be advanced to lieutenant David Zeigler,
VoI. I. 6.
530 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
who was wounded, and is come to Philadelphia for the purpose of perfecting
his cure.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the several assemblies and conven-
tions of the United States, forthwith to import, or otherwise procure, full sup-
plies of fire-arms, bayonets, brass, or other field-pieces, powder, lead, flints,
medicines, entrenching tools, tent-cloth, blankets, and other clothing, for such
of their militia as are deficient therein, and to send to the board of war and
ordnance a copy of their resolutions for this purpose, that the same may be
laid before Congress.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, October 28, 1776.
Resolved, That 1,000 dollars be advanced to the committee appointed to
engage wharf-builders, for the use of the workmen engaged, and that they ren-
der an account of the expenditure.
A letter of the 17th, from general Schuyler, was read, together with the re-
port of a court of enquiry appointed to discover what stores were on board the
enemy′s fleet taken in the river St. Lawrence :
Ordered, That the report be referred to the board of treasury.
A letter of the 6th, from brigadier Andrew Lewis, was read, and referred to
the board of war.
A petition from William Savage, Thomas Corbett, and John Scott, in behalf
of William Wilson, together with sundry papers therein referred to, were read
and referred to the marine committee.
A letter, of the 16th, from the convention of New-York, and a letter from
Thomas Cushing, dated in August, were read :
Ordered, That the last be referred to the committee on Indian affairs.
Resolved, That M. du Bois, upon resigning his commission, have leave to
return to Martinico.
Congress, being informed that certain persons were busy in monopolizing
and engrossing the articles necessary for the army, with a view to enhance
their price, and prevent the army from being supplied,
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to enquire into this mat-
ter, and report thereon to Congress : +.
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Gerry, and Mr. Rutledge.
The committee, to whom the memorial of Matthew Irwin was referred, re-
ported, that they have conferred with the council of safety of Pennsylvania,
who say they have some salt, the quantity they cannot ascertain, which they
are willing to sell for the use of the army: t
Ordered, That the said committee apply to the council of safety, and request
them to sell to Mr. M. Irwin, for the use of the army, as much salt as they can
possibly spare.
The marine committee brought in a report, which was read; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the marine committee beenpowered to employ such persons
as they shall think proper, to execute the business entrusted to them, and re-
ort their names to Congress : §
That the further consideration of the report be postponed till to-morrow.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Thomas Dunahoo, a Canadian prisoner, for his allowance from 13th July
to 25th October, instant, 15 weeks, at 1 dollar and #d a week, 20 dollars:
To captain William Brady, of the late colonel Stevenson’s battalion, for
twelve rifles, purchased by him for the use of his company, 177 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 53.4
TUESI)AY, October 29, 1776.
Congress being informed that Tim. Dodd, an express from Boston, who was
entrusted with despatches from general Washington, has had them stolen from
him at Bristol, in this state,
Fesolved, That a committee of two be appointed, with powers to make every
necessary enquiry, and to take every necessary step they think proper, for the
recovery of the said despatches, and the discovery of the person or persons by
whom said papers were stolen; that if they have good reason to suspect any
person or persons, they immediately secure them till the further orders of
Congress, and return their names, with the causes of suspicion, to this house ;
that they dispose of the continental prisoners at Bristol in such manner as
they shall think best:
That all civil officers be requested, and all continental military officers be
ordered, to afford every assistance that may be required by the said committee.
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. Hopkinson.
Resolved, That colonel Cadwallader and colonel Bayard be requested to
accompany the said committee to Bristol.
Resolved, That 40,000 dollars be advanced to Mr. J. Mease for the public
service; he to be accountable.
That 6000 dollars be advanced to colonel Buckner, of the 6th Virginia bat-
talion, for the use of the said battalion; he to be accountable.
Resolved, That Charles Hughes have leave to go to the West-Indies in the
schooner Thistle.
A letter from Mr. Bache was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Payne, and Mr. Livingston.
Whereas the fortifying the entrance of the river Cape-Fear, in the state of
North-Carolina, will tend greatly to the advantage and security of that state,
by furnishing a safe harbor for foreigners, and excluding the enemy’s ships :
Resolved, therefore, That it be recommended to the convention of the state
of North-Carolina, to fortify and secure immediately, at the expense of their
state, the entrance of the said river, by erecting batteries and other works of
defence, by placing obstructions in proper parts of the said river, and pursuing
such other measures, as, in their opinion, will best conduce to prevent the in-
troduction of the enemy’s ships, and protect the trade of the said state; and,
in case heavy cannon cannot be procured in the state of North-Carolina, it is
further recommended to the said convention, to apply to the state of South-
Carolina, requesting the loan of such cannon as they can spare from their own
necessities, who, it is not doubted, will contribute, as far as may be in their
!. to accomplish a purpose which will be of general utility to the southern
Stat(2S.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the marine committee :
Whereupon, f
Resolved, That no private ship or vessel of war, merchant-ships, or other
vessels belonging to the subjects of these states, be permitted to wear pendants
when in company with continental ships or vessels of war, without leave from
the commanding officer thereof.
That, if any merchant-ship or vessel shall wear pendants in company with
continental ships or vessels of war, without leave from the commander thereof,
such commander be authorized to take away the pendant from the offender.
That, if private ships or vessels of war refuse to pay the respect due to the
Continental ships or vessels of war, the captain or commander, so refusing, shall
lose his commission.
łł) ºved. That the further consideration of the report be postponed till to-
OW,
532 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, October 30, 1776.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due, e
To Mr. Allen, for his expenses while detained here for the purpose of taking
charge of the money for Virginia, the sum of 17 20-90 dollars: tº g
That a farther sum of 77 46-90 dollars be paid to Mr. Fairlamb, which will
be the balance due to him on his account as it now stands, exclusive of his re-
quest for a farther allowance on the ration-stipulation in his contract, and of
27 cords of wood, not allowed for want of vouchers: }
Ordered, That the above accounts be paid.
Resolved, That the sum of 30 dollars be paid to captain. Moore, to enable
him to proceed to Europe.
A letter of this day from colonel M. Hazen was read; also, a petition from
Andrew Stalker, late commander of the brig Three Friends, praying for leave
to depart the states of America, and revisit his native country.
Resolved, That the prayer of the petition be granted.
A petition from John Tillman was read.
A letter, of the 25th, from governor Livingston was read, and referred to
Dr. Rush, Mr. Ross, and Mr. Lynch.
Resolved, That 2000 dollars be advanced to colonel Scott, of the 5th Vir-
ginia battalion, for the use of the said battalion, he to be accountable.
Resolved, That 2000 dollars be advanced to colonel Hausegger, of the Ger-
man battalion, for the use of the said battalion, he to be accountable.
The board of war having recommended Jacob Myle to be quarter-master,
and Eberhart Michael, pay-master to the German battalion;
Resolved, That they be accepted, and commissions granted to them acord-
ingly.
%. Duche having, by a letter to the president, acknowledged his obligations
for the kind manner in which Congress have expressed their approbation of
his service, and requested, as he accepted their appointment from motives per-
fectly disinterested, that the 150 dollars voted to him, may be applied to the
relief of the widows and children of such of the Pennsylvania officers, as have
fallen in battle in the service of their country:
Resolved, That the money be deposited with the council of safety of Penn-
sylvania, to be applied agreeable to the request of Mr. Duche.
A memorial from Robert Jewell was read :
Ordered, That it be referred to the committee on governor Livingston’s
letter.
Resolved, That 133% dollars be advanced to Evans and Stretch, the com-
manding officers of the guard going with money and clothing for the northern
army, they to be accountable.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Mons. Pierre Gamelin, a prisoner from Canada, for his allowance from
26th March to 28th October, inclusive, being 31 weeks, at 2 dollars a week,
62 dollars :
To Marcus Lucullus Ryal, a prisoner, for his allowance from 22d August to
24th October, inclusive, 9 weeks, at 2 dollars, 18 dollars:
To lieutenant Jacob Schalch, a prisoner, for his allowance from 19th July to
25th October, inclusive, 14 weeks, at 2 dollars, 28 dollars:
To Dr. James Gill, a prisoner, for his allowance from 19th July to 25th Oc-
tober, inclusive, 14 weeks, at 2 dollars, 28 dollars: *
To lieutenant Simon Evans, a prisoner, for his allowance from 23d August
to 18th October, inclusive, 8 weeks, at 2 dollars, 16 dollars:
To Pelatiah Webster for 200 lbs. rhubarb, 600 dollars : sº _º
To Alexander Middleton, of the 5th Virginia battalion, for his account of
Journ ALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 533
-*—
medicines, board, nursing, and necessaries for the sick of the said battalion,
86 60-90 dollars :
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The committee, to whom were referred the resolutions of the convention of
Maryland, brought in a report, which was taken into consideration: Where-
Ull)011,
Resolved, That the president write to the convention of Maryland, and in-
form them, that their resolutions relative to their paying ten dollars in lieu of
the 100 acres of land, determined by Congress to be given to such non-commis-
sioned officers and soldiers as shall enlist to serve during the war, will, in the
opinion of this house, if carried into execution, .." extremely detrimental
to these states, as it will, in all probability, induce such soldiers as are to
compose the remainder of the levies, to require an equal sum from the United
States, and by refusing to inlist until their demands shall be complied with,
compel the Congress to the immediate payment of an additional bounty, far be-
yond what is reasonable: w
That this house, being satisfied with the propriety of offering land to the
soldiery, as an inducement to inlist in the service, cannot rescind the said re-
solution, and are of opinion, that the faith, which this house, by virtue of the
power with which they were vested, has plighted, must be obligatory upon their
constituents; that no one state can, by its own act, be released therefrom, and
that he interest of the United States would be deeply and injuriously affected,
should the Congress, at this time, consent to a compromise between any state
and the forces to be by them raised :
That the said convention, by their said resolutions, seem to apprehend, that
their state would be obliged, in their individual capacity, to make good the
bounty of land hereafter to be given to the soldiery; whereas, it was the in-
tention of Congress to provide the said land at the expense of the United States:
That the said convention be requested to reconsider the said resolutions,
and to give to their commissioners, appointed to repair to the camp, such in-
structions as will enable them to carry into execution the views of Congress:
That the said convention be informed, that the pay-master general has been
furnished with a sum of money for the purpose of paying the bounty of 20 dol-
lars ordered by Congress to such soldiers as shall inlist to serve the United
States during the war.
Congress resumed the report of the marine committee: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the rank of officers of marines be the same as officers of simi-
lar commissions in the land service :
That the commanders, officers, seamen, and marines in the continental na-
vy, be entitled to one half of merchantmen, transports, and store-ships by
them taken, from and after the first day of November, 1776, to be divided
amongst them in the shares and proportions fixed by former resolutions of Con-
reSS :
That the commanders, officers, seamen and marines, in the continental na-
Vy, be entitled to the whole value of all ships and vessels of war belonging to
the crown of Great-Britain, by them made prize of, and all privateers authºrized
by his Britannic majesty to war against these states, to be divided as aforesaid.
Resolved, That the part of the report relative to the rank and pay of naval
officers, be referred to a committee of three.
The members chosen, Mr. Morris, Mr. Whipple, and Mr. R. H. Lee.
Resolved, That the remainder of the report be re-committed.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, October 31, 1776.
A. letter, of the 28th, from general Green, was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the committee of intelligence.
534 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That 2000 dollars be advanced to colonel Zebulon Butler, for the
use of the two companies raised in the town of Westmoreland, he to be ac-
countable:
That leave be granted to colonel Z. Butler, or his agent, to purchase of the
salt belonging to the continent, fifty bushels, for the use of the continental
troops raised in Westmoreland.
A letter, of the 29th, from R. IIarrison, the general’s secretary, was read.
The committee appointed to make strict enquiry respecting some late des-
patches from head-quarters, said to have been lost on Monday last at Bristol,
reported,
That they have pursued every probable method, that might lead to a discovery
of the said despatches, without effect; that they have strictly and carefully
examined every person, who could be supposed to have any * of the
circumstances related by the express, charged with the said despatches, res-
pecting his loss, but can discover no traces of the robbery or stealth; that the
said express does not give so clear and satisfactory an account of this matter
as fully to exculpate himself in the opinion of this committee, and that they
have therefore brought him back for the farther examination of Congress;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That Timothy Dod, who had charge of the despatches from ge-
neral Washington, and alleges he lost them at Bristol, be committed to the cus-
tody of R. Jewell, keeper of the public prison, to be safely kept till farther
orders of Congress:
That Mr. Jewell be directed to keep Timothy Dod in his own apartments
and family, and not to permit any of the prisoners, nor any person, except
those of his own family, to converse with him, till farther orders of Congress.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to prepare an effectual plan
for suppressing the internal enemies of America, and preventing a communica-
tion of intelligence to our other enemies. t
The members chosen, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. Wythe, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Wil-
son, and Mr. Ross.
Ordered, That the board of war remove the prisoners from Bristol, and the
public post roads, to some convenient places back in the country:
That they have a sufficient guard kept at the public prison, and over the
continental stores in and near Philadelphia.
Whereas, it has been represented to Congress, that sundry inhabitants of
these United States, to keep supplies from the army, or promote their own in-
terest, have purchased considerable quantities of clothing, and refuse to dispose
of the same, unless upon extravagant or unreasonable terms;
Resolved, That it be recommended to the assemblies, conventions, councils
or committees of safety of the several states, forthwith to take suitable mea-
sures for obtaining, for the use of the army, such necessary articles, as being
thus engrossed in their respective states, cannot be otherwise immediately
procured, allowing to the owners reasonable prices for the same ; and that laws
be provided in each of the states, for effectually preventing monopolies of ne-
cessarſes for the army, or inhabitants of the same.
Ordered, That the committee to whom Mr. Bache’s letter was referred, re-
port, as soon as possible, ways and means of establishing expresses, and con-
veying intelligence to and from the army, with safety and despatch.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JW ovember 1, 1776.
Resolved, That 3000 dollars be paid to Acklam Ronfield, or order, and
charged to the account of J. Trumbull, esq. deputy pay-master general in the
northern department, the same being in full of a draught in his favour by the
said J. Trumbull, dated at Albany, 15th October, 1776,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 535
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration ;
Whereupon, e
Resolved, That commissions be granted to fill up the vacancies in the fourth,
fifth and sixth Virginia battalions, agreeable to the list given in to the board of
war by general Stephens.
Resolved, That 3000 dollars be advanced to the delegates of Georgia, for
the use of that state; the said delegates to be accountable.
A petition from sundry ship-joiners, was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the marine committee.
Ordered, That the board of war direct four companies of the Virginia bat-
talion on the eastern shore, to march, under the command of a field officer, to
Dover, in Delaware government, and there remain till farther orders.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the ways and
means of supplying the treasury; Whereupon, -
Resolved, That a sum of money be raised by way of lottery, for defraying
the expenses of the next campaign, the lottery to be drawn in Philadelphia:
Ordered, That the committee who brought in the report, prepare the plan of
a lottery, fix the number of managers, and the security by them to be given,
and report to Congress.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be postponed till to-
Ill Ol’I’OW.
Ordered, That the board of treasury lay before Congress, once every week,
an account of what part of the last emission of money remains unexpended.
Ordered, That the board of war supply the delegates of Georgia, for the
use of that state, with a quantity of military stores, first informing Congress of
the quantity applied for.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, JW ovember 2, 1776.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on the
ways and means of supplying the treasury; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the board of treasury be directed to prepare all the materi-
als, and to have ready for a new emission five millions of dollars, to be issued
when Congress shall direct :
That 500,000 dollars be speedily issued in small bills of two-thirds, one-
third, one-sixth, and one-ninth of a dollar.
A petition from John Bates was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the committee who contracted with him.
Resolved, That 3,000 dollars be advanced to colonel Moses Hazen, for re-
cruiting his regiment; he to be accountable.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Isaac Dennis, and to be paid to Francis Lewis, esq. for dieting 80 men,
and oats, &c. for horses of captain Thomas Price's company, in New-York go-
vernment, 13 67-90 dollars :
To Bartholomew Van Keer, for his pay as brigadier-major, from 20th June
to 20th October, four months, at 33 dollars, 132 dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
. The committee to whom governor Livingston's letter was referred, brought
in a report, which was read :
Ordered, To lie on the table.
Resolved, That Congress will, on Monday next, consider the application for
employing Mr. Roche de Fermoy in the continental service.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday. -
536 JoURNALs of congBEss, 1776
-**
*-****
M ONDAY, JW'ovember 4, 1776.
The honorable Matthew Thornton, esq. a delegate from New-Hampshire, at-
tended, and produced his credentials, which were read as follows:
STATE of NEw-HAMPSHIRE, .* -
In the House of Representatives, Sept. 2, 1776.
Voted, That the hon. Matthew Thornton, esq., be, and hereby is, appointed
a delegate to represent this state at the Continental Congress, for one year next
ensuing. Sent up for concurrence.
- P. WHITE, Speaker.
y
IN Council, Eodem Die.
Read and concurred : E. THOMPSON, Secretary.
A copy, examined by E. THOMPSON, Secretary.
Two letters, of the 25th October and 1st November, from R. H. Harrison;
one from R. Stockton and G. Clymer, of the 26th October; one, of the 23d,
from general Schuyler, at Saratoga, were laid before Congress, and read:
Ordered, That they be referred to the board of war.
A letter, of the 19th October, from G. Mason, chairman of the committee of
Fairfax county, in Virginia, enclosing a resolution of the council of Virginia,
was read and referred to the board of war.
Whereas it is manifest, that unless effectual measures are immediately tak-
en for re-inlisting the army, the safety of the states may be greatly endangered;
Resolved, That the president write to the commander in chief and inform
him that if, upon receipt of this resolution, commissioners from the respective
states, for the purpose of appointing officers, shall not have arrived, he is then,
after consulting and advising with such of his generals as he can conveniently
call together, immediately to grant warrants to such of the officers from the re-
spective states, which have not commissioners present authorized as aforesaid,
as he shall think deserving of commissions:
That the officers so to be appointed proceed with the utmost expedition, to
recruit their regiments to their full complement: ---
That commissions be sent to general Wºon as soon as possible, to be
given to such officers as he shall appoint by warrants, in consequence of the
ãº. resolution : -
That the commander in chief be desired to take such steps as he shall think
most proper for continuing the militia now in camp. -
That, for this purpose, he write to such of the states as now have militia in
the government of New-York, requesting their assistance in this business; and
that he be farther desired to apply to the neighboring states for such additional
aid as he may require ; ‘..
That a letter to the same import be written to gen. Schuyler.
The committee, to whom the letter from T. Cushing was referred, broughtin
a report, which was read. -
It being represented that some of the marines in the barracks are sick,
Resolved, That Dr. Rush be desired to take them under his care, and see that
they be properly provided for. *
Resolved, That Mr. Hooper be added to the committee to whom Mr. Bache’s
letter was referred, and that the said committee be directed to meet on that
business this evening at this place. •
Resolved, That the wagon-master general be directed to take charge of the
horses belonging to the continent, and prepare them for service, as soon as
Yossible. - -
p The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
Journals OF CONGRESS, 1776. 537
TUESI)AY, JW ovember 5, 1776. . .
, Benjamin Harrison, esq. a delegate from Virginia, attended and produced
the credentials of his appointment, which were read as follows: -
“VIRGINIA. In the House of Delegates, Thursday, Oct. 10, 1776.
The house, according to the order of the day, proceeded by ballot to the ap-
pointment of a delegate to represent this state in general Congress, in the room
of Thomas Jefferson, esq. and the members having prepared tickets for the per-
son to be appointed, j put the same into a box, a committee was appointed
to examine the same, who reported, that they had met a committee from the
Senate in the conference room, and had, jointly with them, examined the bal-
lot boxes, and that the numbers appeared as follows: For Benjamin Harrison,
esq., 69—Merewether Smith, esq. 5.
Resolved, therefore, That the said Benjamin Harrison be appointed a dele-
gate to represent this state in general Congress.
Resolved, unanimously, That the thanks of this house are justly due to the
said Benjamin Harrison, for the diligence, ability and integrity, with which he
executed the important trust reposed in him as one of the delegates from this
country to the general Congress. --
A copy: JOHNTAZEWELL, Clerk of the House of Delegates.”
Resolved, That Mr. Harrison be added to the board of war, and that he be
continued in all those standing committees, of which he was a member, when
he left Congress.
A letter, of the 31st October, from R. II. Harrison, was read.
* The board of treasury brought in a report, which was taken into considera-
tion ; Whereupon, --
Resolved, #. all accounts for services done, or articles supplied the
northern army, be presented to the commissioners for settling accounts, and so
much thereof as is approved by them, and confirmed by the general, be paid by
his warrants on the pay-master, after the commissioners have certified there-
on, that the accounts and vouchers are returned to them by the persons receiv-
ing such warrants : f : -
That all warrants of the general on the pay-master for services to be per-
formed, or articles to be supplied, be sent by the pay-master to the office, and
entered in the books of the commissioners; after which, the said commissioners
shall, as soon as they shall judge expedient, call to account the persons receiv-
ing such advances; and having settleſ the sºil accounts, they shall be filed in
their office: * *
That when any balance appears to be due to the United States, from persons
whose accounts are adjusted as aforesaid, they shall be received by the com-
missioners, and delivered to the pay-master, whose receipts therefor shall be
transmitted to the treasury: . -- -
That the commissioners be empowered to administer oaths or affirmations to
persons examined by them in the execution of their office.
That the generals’ and pay-masters’ accounts be sent to the treasury office
by the commissioners, together with the pay-rolls and accounts discharged by
the same, upon their adjusting the accounts of the northern army to the end of
the present campaign.
Itesolved, That the commissioners appointed to settle the accounts of the
army near New-York, be directed to govern their conduct agreeable to the
foregoing resolutions. f
Resolved, That the following instructions be given to the commissioners of
the northern army:
1. That, in adjusting the accounts of persons, whose particular circumstan-
ces may have rendered them unable to procure vouchers, or that, on the re-
treat of the army, have lost the same, the commissioners endeavour to obtain
Vol. I.
5
38 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
the best information from the general officers, or other persons in that depart-
ment, and use a discretionary power in administering oaths or affirmations for
this purpose. .
2. That there not having been a muster-master in the northern army during
the last and present campaign, the commissioners particularly attend to the
pay-rolls that shall be produced as vouchers by the pay-master, and should any
faults * report them to the general, that the same may be thoroughly in-
vestigated.
3, *That in other instances, the commissioners do not interfere with the
muster or pay-rolls, unless, in particular cases, it shall be judged expedient by
the general and themselves.
4. That the commissioners do not concern themselves in disputes about
back-rations or allowances for vegetables said to be due to some officers and
soldiers, but leave them with the commissary, whose business it is to regulate
such disputes.
5. That where any person has done the duty of a deputy or assistant com-
. by desire of a general officer, or the commissary or deputy commissary
generals, he be allowed for his services, although he has not received a com-
mission for that purpose.
6. That demands for defending the frontiers of any of the states, if on ac-
count of troops not raised by order of Congress, be not considered by the
COIſ) [1] ISSIOI) eſ’S.
7. That the commissioners certify to the general the accounts to be paid in
species that if the military chest is supplied, the general may issue his warrants
accordingly.
8. That the commissioners send to the state of New-Jersey, and to the
states to the eastward thereof, if such accounts are not forwarded agreeable
to a circular letter from the treasury board to the said states.
Resolved, That the president write to governor Livingston, and request him
to send two companies of militia to guard the salt-works near Tom’s river,
and one company to be stationed at or near Shrewsbury, to intercept and put a
stop to the intelligence said to be carried on between the tories and lord Howe's
fleet; that the companies consist of fifty men each.
A petition from Joseph Traverses was presented to Congress, and read;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That 100 dollars be advanced to the said Joseph Traverses; to
be accounted for by him on the settlement of his account. *;
The committee to whom the letter froſſi Richard Bache, comptroller of the
post-office, was referred, brought in a report, which was taken into considera-
tion ; Whereupon,
Resolved. That for obtaining early and frequent intelligence from the camps
at White-Plains and Ticonderoga, or such other places as the armies now, or
lately there, may march, or have marched to, and forwarding despatches to
the commanding officers with the like expedition, the post-master general do
immediately employ so many more riders, between Philadelphia and head-quar-
ters of these armies, as he shall judge will most effectually perform that very
important, and, at this time more especially, necessary service; and that he
endeavour, to the utmost of his power, to procure sober, diligent, and trusty
persons to undertake it; and guard, in the best manner he is able, against rob-
peries of the mails, or losses of their contents otherwise:
That all ferry-keepers be enjoined, as much as they are able, to expedite the
passage of post-riders and other persons charged with letters, despatches, or
messages, from or to Congress; and that it be recommended to the several le-
gislatures of the United States, to enforce the observance of this resolution :
That expresses and special messengers, employed in the public service;
taking and carrying private letters and packets, ought not to receive the wages
they would otherwise be entitled to :
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 539
That the deputy post-master at head-quarters be allowed four rations, every
day, out of the public stores there, for the subsistence of himself, his riders,
and servant.
Congress took into consideration the case of the chevalier Roche de Fermoy ;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the chevalier Matthias Alexis Roche de Fermoy, be appoint-
ed a brigadier-general in the army of the United States.
The committee to whom was referred the petition and accounts of Benjamin
Eyre, brought in a report, which was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of treasury.
A petition from Jeremiah Cady was read :
Ordered, That it be referred to the commissioners appointed to audit and
settle the accounts of the northern army, and that they report specially
thereon.
Certain resolutions of the convention of the state of New-York were laid
before Congress, and read :
Ordered, That they be referred to a committee of three :
The members chosen, Mr. Hopkinson, Mr. Whipple, and Mr. Hart.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, JNovember 6, 1776.
A letter, of the 3d, from R. H. Harrison, enclosing one of the 2d from bri-
gadier-general Parsons; one, of the 30th October, from general Schuyler at
Saratoga, enclosing instructions for officers appointed to recruit for the ser-
vices of the United States; one, of the 31st October, from J. Trumbull, depu-
ty pay-master general ; and one, of the same date, from governor Trumbull,
enclosing a resolve of the general assembly of Connecticut, appointing John
Lawrence, esq. of Hartford, commissioner to superintend the loan-office, in
that state, were read :
Ordered, That the letter from general Schuyler, and that from Mr. Harrison,
with the letter enclosed, be referred to the board of war:
That the letter from governor Trumbull, and that from J. Trumbull, pay-
master, also the letter of the 29th of August from general Schuyler, together
with the memorial from colonel Brown, and the officers certificates enclosed
therein, be referred to the board of treasury.
The committee of treasury brought in a report, which was taken into consi-
deration : Whereupon,
Resolved, That the report of a court of enquiry appointed by general Schuy-
ler, and held at Albany the 5th of October, in consequence of a resolution of
Congress of the 30th of July last, confirming general Montgomery's promise
to give to the troops concerned in taking the vessels on the Sorel, all the pub-
lic stores, except ammunition and provisions, on board thereof, be referred to
the commissioners for adjusting the accounts of the northern army; that they
be directed to make strict enquiry into the matter, and inform themselves, by
the evidence of persons who served at that time as quarter-master and commis-
sary of stores in the said army, and of others, what part, or whether any, of the
stores mentioned in the report, were taken for the public service; that they
allow to the officers and men which they find entitled thereto, the amount of
so many of the stores as shall appear to have been taken for the army as afore-
said, and have not been paid for, after deducting therefrom, such reasonable
expenses as have accrued to any of the captors in obtaining an adjustment of
the prize-money, and ordering the amount of such articles of the prize-goods
as the said captors have received, and were not given them as bounties, to
be deducted from their respective proportions; that the pay-master be di-
rected, upon receiving general Schuyler's warrant for payment of the same "
540 s JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
to proportion it amongst such officers and men, as the general and commis-
sioners shall direct, agreeable to the pay allowed by the establishment at that
time, without any regard to rations.
The marine committee brought in a report, which was taken into considera-
tion : Whereupon,
Resolved, That three persons, well skilled in maritime affairs, be immediately
appointed to execute the business of the navy, under the direction of the ma-
rine committee.
The remainder of the report, at the request of a colony, was postponed till
to-morrow.
Ordered, That commissions be delivered to the captains and subalterns of
the 6th Virginia battalion, and that the dates be filled up by gen. Stephens.
Resolved, That 4000 dollars be advanced to colonel Lawson, of the 4th Vir-
ginia battalion, for the payment of the said battalion, he to be accountable, and
that the money be paid into the hands of Thomas Gaskins.
Two bills were presented to Congress; one drawn by general Lee for 64 dol-
lars, dated Petersburg, 28th September, 1776; the other of the same, by
Jacob Morris, aid-de-camp to general Lee, for 150 dollars, both in favor of
John ºister, and drawn upon William Palſrey, esq. pay-master at Phi-
ladelphia:
}. That they be paid, and charged to the account of general Lee.
Resolved, That Willie Jones, esq. of Halifax, Robert Smith, esq. of Edenton,
and Alexander Telfer, esq. of Halifax, or any two of them, be appointed to
audit and settle the continental accounts in Virginia.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Benjamin Wallace, and to be paid to Charles Risk, for victualling 45
men of the flying camp, 4 45 dollars:
To Francis Hopkinson, esq. for his and J. Wilson, esq. expenses, &c. at Bris-
tol, to make enquiry respecting despatches sent from head-quarters, and lost,
by the express, 25 60 dollars:
To Sebastian Miller, for the hire of a wagon with money from Philadelphia
to Boston, 65 30 dollars:
To John Gibson, esq. auditor-general, for half a years’ salary due the 9th of
October last, 533 30 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The ship Lady Catharine, George Ord, master, which was sent out last win-
ter, being returned,
Resolved, That the secret committee be empowered and directed to settle
the accounts of the voyage, and report in what manner the cargo imported is
to be disposed of.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, JW ovember 7, 1776.
A petition from John Connolly, was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the committee appointed to examine into the
state of prisoners in the public gaol of Philadelphia.
Whereas, the late major-general Ward, since his resignation of his trust,
has continued in command, in the eastern department, at the request of the
commander in chief, and still continues therein at the request of Congress; it
is, therefore,
Ordered, That he receive the pay of a major-general, commanding in a se-
parate department, from the 26th day of April last, being the time of his re-
signation, and until a suitable person shall be appointed to take the command
in his stead, or it shall be otherwise ordered by Congress.
Resolved, That Richard Bachebe appointed post-master general in the room
of Dr. Franklin, who is absent, *
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 541

l.
. An appeal having been lodged with the secretary against the sentence passed
in the court of admiralty, for the port of Philadelphia, in the state of Penn-
sylvania, on the libel “John Barry, &c. vs. the sloop Betsey, &c.”
Ordered, That the hearing and determining upon the said appeal be referred
to a committee of five :
The members chosen, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Paine, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Hooper, and
Mr. Rutledge.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken intº consideration;
Whereupon, {
Resolved, 1. That 266 60 dollars be advanced to capt. Francis Holland, and
133 30 dollars to capt. Robert Harris, both of the Maryland flying-camp, they
to be respectively accountable to the council of safety of that state for the
said sums, which are to be for the use of, and charged to the account of, their
respective companies:
2. That 1110 67 dollars be advanced to captain Alexander Lawson Smith,
of the late colonel Stevenson’s rifle regiment, to pay the subsistence money of,
and to enable him to advance a month’s pay to, the said company:
3. That commissions be sent to general Schuyler, for colonel Elmore’s regi-
ment to be filled up according to the ranks and times of service of the officers
of the said regiment; the general making such arrangements therein as he shall
think just and proper: \
4 That commissions be also sent to general Schuyler, to be filled up with
the names of the officers yet unprovided for, who have served in Canada, ac-
cording to their ranks and merits, to complete colonel Livingstola's regiment:
5. That general Schuyler, agreeable to his request, have permission to repair
to Congress, as soon as he shall be of opinion the service will admit of his ab-
sence from his department:
6. That general Schuyler be informed that Congress have repeatedly ap-
plied to Maryland on the subject of the Nantikoke Indians, without having
received an answer; that application shall again be made, and information
given him of the result:
7. That general Schuyler be allowed to give such clothing to the Indians as
he shall think can be spared for that purpose:
8. That the deputy muster-master general, in the northern department, have
the rank of lieutenant-colonel in the army of the United States:
9. That general Washington be requested to take proper steps fo trying all
deserters from his army, and punishing, in the most exemplary manner the
articles of war will admit, all such officers and soldiers who º be base
enough disgracefully to leave the service of their country at this time of trial
and danger. \
Resolved, That each of the persons to be appointed to execute the business
of the navy, under the direction of the marine committee, be allowed the sa-
lary of 1500 dollars per annum.
A letter from colonel Miles to William Wister, was laid before Congress
and read; wherein he intimates that an exchange may be accomplished of him
for Mr. Foxcroft, and perhaps of colonel Atlee, or lieutenant-colonel Piper,
for Mr. Dashwood :
Ordered, That the letter be transmitted to general Washington, and that
he he desired to do therein what he shall think proper.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed, \
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JW ovember 8, 1776. |
A letter, of the 4th, from R. Dallam, esq. was read; Whereupon,
Resolved. That 5000 dollars be paid to Gustavus Risberg, A. Q. M. general,
and charged to the account of Richard Dallam, agreeably to the request of the
*id R. Dallam; and that the letter be referred to the board of treasury.
542 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.

Resolved, That doctor Witherspoon have leave to take with him to Prince-
ton, Archibald Gardiner, James Henderson, Peter Jack, and Hugh Ross, four
of the prisoners lately sent to Philadelphia, and there to keep them till the
further orders of Congress.
The º appointed to devise means for preventing the evils to be ap-
prehended from the internal enemies of the United States, and hinderin
them from carrying on correspondence with the foreign enemies to the sai
states, brought in a report, which was read:
Ordered, That the consideration thereof be postponed to Monday next.
A petition from Paul Christman, ensign in captain Keyser’s company, from
Maryland, in the German battalion, was read, praying leave to resign his com-
mission: |
Resolved, That leave be granted.
The committee of treasury reported,
That there ought to be advanced to colonel Valentine Crawford, one of the
executors of the late colonel Hugh Stevenson, on account of his estate, 100
dollars: |
That there is due to the following Canadian prisoners, and to be paid to
captain Chartier de Lotbinier, 253.30 dollars: viz.
To captain Lotbinier, for his allowance, from the 2d of November, 1775, to
the 31st of October, 1776, 52 weeks, at 2 dollars, 104 dollars; of which he
received from general Schuyler, 14.60 dollars; remains to be paid to him, 89.
30 dollars: :
To M. Tomancour, for his allowance, from the 2d Nov. 1775, to the 31st
October, 1776, 52 weeks, at 2 dollars, 104 dollars:
To M. Dothambault, for his allowance, from the 31st of August to the 8th
of November, 10 weeks, at 2 dollars, 20 dollars:
To M. Fleurimont, for his allowance, from the 31st of August to the 8th of
November, 10 weeks, at 2 dollars, 20 dollars:
To M. ; Ours, for his allowance, from the 31st of August to the 8th of No-
vember, 10 weeks, at 2 dollars, 20 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved. That a committee of three be appointed to consider and report un-
der what restrictions the suttlers, who supply the army, should be laid, and
that the motions made by Mr. Gerry, and sceonded, be referred to this com-
mittee: ;
The members chosen, Mr. Gerry, Mr. Wythe, and Mr. Wolcott.
A petition from J. Budden and T. Lawrence was read, requesting leave to
export rbvisions to Turks’ Island, in order to bring from thence a load of salt:
Resolved, That leave be granted. *
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That Mynheer N. D. Ottendorf be appointed a brevet captain in
the service of the United States.
esolved, That Tuesday next be assigned for taking into consideration the
trade of these states.
Resolved, That the sum of 2666,60 dollars be advanced to the committee
appointed to contract for casting cannon; they to be accountable.
§ letter from Tench Coxe, at Trenton, to John Tabor Kempe, esq. of New-
York, was laid before Congress, and leave requested to forward the same in er-
det to obtain the release of Mrs. Lewis, who is detained a prisoner by the
enemy on Long-Island:
Resolved, That this matter be referred to the board of war:
"That the delegates of New-Jersey be directed to cause strict enquiry to be
made through what channel Mr. Kempe conveyed the intelligence mentioned
i the foregoing letter.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 543
resolved, That 120 dollars be advanced to captain George Gibson, of the
first Virginia battalion, he to account with the pay-master-general on the set-
tlement of his accounts.
A letter from James Sullivan was read, and referred to the board of war.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, JNovember 9, 1776.
Resolved, That two months’ pay, being 250 dollars, be advanced to brigadier-
general Roche de Fermoy, he to be accountable:
Ordered, That he repair to the northern army, and put himself under the
command of general Schuyler.
A letter of the 3d from Timothy Danielson, chairman of a committee of the
general assembly of Massachusetts-Bay, appointed to officer and inlist seven
battalions out of the officers and soldiers in the continental army near White-
Plains, with sundry papers enclosed, was read:
Ordered, That the same be referred to a committee of three:
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Rutledge, and Mr. Wythe.
Resolved, That two months’ pay be advanced to captain Ottendorf; and that
he be ordered to repair to head-quarters, and put himself under the command
of general Washington.
The committee .# treasury reported, that there is due,
To Robert Towers, commissary, for sundry articles purchased by him by di-
rection of the board of war, and to be charged to the account of the said board,
526.74 dollars:
That 3280 dollars be advanced to captain Casdorp, to pay the arrearages due
to his company of carpenters sent to Ticonderoga: É. which he is to account:
That 50,000 dollars be sent to Richard Dallam, esq. deputy pay-master
general for the flying-camp; he to be accountable:
Ordered, That the said sums be paid.
The committee appointed to consider and report under what restrictions the
suttlers, who supply the army, ought to be laid, brought in a report, which was
read ; and, after some debate thereon,
Resolved, That the farther consideration thereof be postponed to Monday.
Congress having received intelligence that a free and open communication
and correspondence is kept up with the enemy on Staten-Island and New-
York, from Elizabethtown, Newark, and the parts adjacent, to the great detri-
ment of the American cause: It is therefore recommended to the governor,
council, and assembly of the state of New-Jersey, to take the most speed y and
effectual measures to stop all communication between that state in: the ene-
my's quarters, that shall not be directed by proper authority.
A memorial from Lawrence Bowden, late master of the sh; Royal-Ex-
º taken by the ship of war Columbus, was presented to &: and
Tea (I 3
Ordered, That it be referred to the marine committee.
Resolved, That Congress will, on Tuesday next, resolve itself into a com-
mittee of the whole, to take into consideration the means of supporting the cres
dit of the continental currency.
. The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, JNovember 11, 1776.
. A letter, of the 6th, from general Washington; one, of the 8th, from briga-
dier-general Mercer; and one from Richard Bache, esq. were read.
... ºrdered, That the two former be referred to the board of war, and the latter
to the board of treasury. &
544 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
——-
*
Resolved, That col. James Livingston have leave to recruit his regiment in
any of the United States.
A petition º Charles Noel Romand, sieur de Lisle, captain in a corps of
-º-,
*gs
artillery in the service of France, was read :
Ordered, Thält it be referred to the board of war.
Resolved, That the board of war be empowered and directed immediately to
confer with the council of safety of Pennsylvania, or a committee by them ap-
pointed, on the best ways and means of defending the city of Philadelphia, in
case it should be attacked.
Resolved, That the committee of treasury, or either of them, be empowered
to administer offiths to persons whom they shall examine or employ in executing
the resolutions of Congress.
The committee to whom the letter from Timothy Danielson, and the papers
enclosed thereii, were referred, brought in a report, which was read; and, after
debate,
Resolved, That the further consideration thereof be postponed.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned º ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, JW ovember 12, 1776.
A letter, of the 10th, from gen. Mifflin ; one, of the same date, from R. Dal-
lam; and one, f the 9th, from Dr. Shippen, were read.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To George Stultz, for iron-work, and repairing a continental light-wagon,
12.60 dollars:
To John Tyler, for bayonet-scabbards, and repairing arms for the German
battalion, 82.30 dollars : *
To Mons. Lotbinier, a Canadian chaplain, for his pay and rations, from 10th
of October to 10th of November, 41.30 dollars :
To doctor Beaumont, a prisoner, of the 26th regiment, for his allowance from
21st July to 3d November, inclusive, being 15 weeks, at 2 dollars a week, 30
dollars:
To William M'Leod, a prisoner, of the 59th regiment, for his allowance
from 21st July to 3d November, inclusive, being 15 weeks, at 2 dollars a week,
30 dollars:
That there is to be paid to Daniel du Chemin, for the allowance due to
Messrs. Hertel, Giasson, and la Magdalaine, Canadian prisoners, from the 1st
August to 6th November, inclusive, 14 weeks, at 2 dollars a week, 28 dollars
each, 84 dollars:
That there should be paid to Joel Zane, for the allowance due to lieut. Ha-
mar, of the 7th regiment, from 20th July to 1st November, inclusive, 15 weeks,
at 2 dollars a week, 30 dollars; and to captain Swan, of the 26th regiment,
from 21st June to 1st November, being 19 weeks, at 2 dollars, 38 dollars; the
whole 68 dollars :
To James Budden, for himself, and others of the light-horse, their expenses
as an escort with money to New-York, 82 dollars, and for his expenses with
general Prescot from Reading to Philadelphia, 24.42 dollars; both sums mak-
ing 106.42 dollars:
To William Woodhouse, for wafers for the use of Congress, 1.12 dollars:
To Thomas Smith, for paper for the use of the commissioners for the New-
York department, 15.78 dollars:
That there should be paid to Dr. Rush 625 dollars for 5 months' advance pay
to brigadier-general Thompson, who is to be accountable :
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid. *
The committee of treasury, to whom that part of the petition and memorial
of John Brown, lieutenant-colonel of the regiment commanded by col. Elmore,

JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 545
praying that his extraordinary services in Canada, last year, may be considered,
was referred, brought in a report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table.
A letter to Willing & Morris, from Samuel Smith, master of the Hancock &
Adams, (who, on his passage to Philadelphia, was taken by the Gamecock pri-
vateer, of Rhode-Island, commanded by Timothy Pierce, and carried into Bed-
ford, in Massachusetts-Bay) dated Bedford port, November 1, was laid before
Congress and read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the secret committee, and that they report
the cargo on board the Hancock & Adams, and how it ought to be disposed of.
The board of war, to whom a request from the state of Virginia was referred,
brought in a report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the demands of the continent for cannon are at present of so
pressing a nature that none can be spared for the particular use of any state ;
but, as soon as a sufficient quantity of ordnance is supplied to the United States,
the request of the state of Virginia, to be permitted to purchase cannon at
Hughes's works, shall be complied with. e
That Monsieur Romand de Lisle be appointed a major of artillery in the
service of the United States, and sent to general Washington, to be employed
as he shall think proper.
A petition from James M’Connaughy was read.
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of war.
A memorial from Azariah Dunham was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the council of safety of Pennsylvania.
A letter, of the 9th, from general Washington, enclosing one of the 31st of
October from general Gates, at Ticonderoga, was read.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the committee on the let-
ter of Timothy Danielson; Whereupon,
Resolved, As the opinion of Congress, that if the soldiers to be raised by the
state of Massachusetts-Bay, be inlisted on the the terms offered to them, which
are more advantageous than what are offered to other soldiers serving in the
same army, it would much retard, if not totally impede, the inlistment of the
latter, and produce discontent and murmur, unless Congress should equally in-
crease the pay of these, which, it is the opinion of Congress, would universally
be reprobated as an immoderate expense, and complained of as a grievous bur-
den by those who must bear it; and, therefore, that the committee from the
State of Massachusetts-Bay be desired not to inlist their men on the additional
pay offered by the assembly of that state.
. Upon re-consideration, the resolution of the 16th of September last, for rais-
ing 88 battalions to serve during the present war with Great-Britain, Con-
gress-being of opinion, that the readiness of the inhabitants of these states to
enter into the service for limited times, in defence of their invaluable privileges,
on all former occasions, gives good ground to hope the same zeal for the pub-
lic good will appear in future, when necessity calls for their assistance, and,
lºst the uncertain length of time which forcés, raised during the continuance
9f the present war, may be compelled to serve, may prevent men from inlist-
ing who would otherwise manifest their attachment to the common cause, by
engaging for a limited time; therefore,
Aesolved, That all non-commissioned officers and soldiers who do not in-
cline tº engage their service during the continuance of the present war, and
shall,inlist to serve three years, unless sooner discharged by Congress, shall be
§ntitled to, and receive all such bounty and pay as are allowed to those who in-
list during the continuance of the present war, except the 100 acres of land;
which land is to be granted to those only who inlist without such limitation of
time. *. * recruiting officer is required to provide two distinct inlisting
OL, R, 69
546 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
rolls, one for such to sign as inlist during the continuance of the war, and the
other for such as inlist for three years, if their service shall be so long required.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, JVovember 13, 1776.
A letter, of the 12th of October, from Joseph Trumbull, commissary-general,
was read; Whereupon, *
Resolved, That 40,000 dollars be advanced to Thomas Lowry, and charged
to the account of Joseph Trumbull, agreeable to his request.
The marine committee having recommended colonel John Nixon, and John
Wharton, as fit persons to execute the business of the navy, under the direction
of the marine committee,
Resolved, That they be accepted.
A letter, of the 10th, from M. Tilghman, president of the convention of Ma-
ryland, enclosing sundry resolutions of that body, relative to the raising their
quota of the new levies, was laid before Congress and read:
Ordered, That the president furnish the commissioners of the said state,
sent therefrom to raise their levies, with the resolution of yesterday, admitting
the new levies to inlist for three years only, and, at the same time inform
them, that, if the inhabitants of that state will inlist to serve during the con-
tinuance of the present war, they already have the faith of the United States of
America pledged for the land to be granted to such soldiers.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Mons. la Marque, a Canadian prisoner, for his allowance from the 31st of
August to the 8th of November, inclusive, being 10 weeks, at 2 dollars a week,
20 dollars, to be paid to Mons. de la Magdalaine: º
To capt. Thomas Gamble, a prisoner of the 47th regiment, for his allowance
from the 10th of August, to the 2d of November, inclusive, 12 weeks, at two
dollars a week, 24 dollars, to be paid to James Biddle, esq. e e
To Michael Leightner, and to be paid to George Aston, for victualling troops
on their march, 15.5 dollars: º
To John Nourse, for ferriage of himself, and of general Lee and his servants,
horses, &c. over Hoe's ferry, 4.60 dollars, to be paid to col. B. Harrison :
To doctor Samuel Wilson, for board, attendance, and medicine, to sick sol-
diers of the 6th Virginia regiment, 33.60 dollars:
To Wollore Meng, for 12 scabbards delivered to captain Ralph Falconer, of
the 5th Virginia battalion, 4.72 dollars:
That there should be paid to Thomas Armer, on account of Elizabeth Robin-
son, for so much short paid on settlement of her account, the 14th of October
last, for board, &c. of sick soldiers belonging to captain Grier’s company, 10
dollars:
That there should be paid to the Pennsylvania hospital, for the support and
clothing of J. Hughes, a wounded soldier, 36.54 dollars: º
That there should be paid to Adam Eccle, 8.78 dollars, being so much paid
by him to serjeant John Byers, of captain Hubley’s company, in colonel Slee's
battalion, to enable him to support his party, being a guard to powder from Phi-
ladelphia to North-Carolina:
That there is due to Willam O'Harra, a soldier in the late captain William
Hendrick’s company, taken at Quebec, and now returned, for his pay from 1st
January to 10th November, 10 months and 10 days, at 6.60 dollars a month,
68.80 dollars :
To Henry Taylor, a soldier in captain Smith’s rifle-company, taken at Que-
bec, and now returned, for his pay from 1st June to 10th November, 5 months
and 10 days, at 6.60 dollars, 35.50 dollars: te
To Dr. William Sarringhausen, for medicine and attendance to the sick of
of captain Woelpper's company, in the German battalion, 24.1 dollars:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 547
To Benjamin Eyre, ship-wright, for his pay and rations, employed in con-
structing row-gallies at New-York, horse-hire, and travelling expenses to Al-
bany, to engage boards, &c. for the army, 427.77 dollars:
That 60,000 dollars be sent to R. Dallam, esq. deputy pay-master general
of the flying camp, for the use of the army: º
That there is due to Daniel Naef, for the ferriage of Virginia troops, their
baggage, wagons and horses, over Susquehanna, 61.72 dollars: º
So Andrew M'Nair, for his attendance on Congress 146 days, cleaning
house, &c. to 1st November, 118.81 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The board of treasury brought in a report respecting the certificates to be
given to the lenders of the five millions of dollars, voted to be borrowed, which
was read.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration :
Whereupon,
Resolved, That 2000 dollars be advanced to colonel Hausegger for the use
of the German battalion ; he to be accountable.
Resolved, That the remainder of the report be postponed till to-morrow.
The secret committee, to whom the letter from captain Smith was referred,
brought in a report, which was taken into consideration : Whereupon,
Resolved, That the secret committee be directed to write letters to governor
Cooke, to the continental agent in Rhode-Island, and such other persons as
they shall think proper, to make strict enquiry into the conduct of captain
Timothy Pierce, respecting the capture or seizure of the ship Hancock &
Adams, employed in the continental service, and cause him to be prosecuted
for the penalty of the bond given, when he received his commission, if it shall
appear, on the enquiry, that in justice to the continent, such prosecution
should be commenced; and the said committee are authorized to do what may
be necessary for supporting the prosecution. *
The remainder º: report postponed.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, JNovember 14, 1776.
A letter, of the 4th, from R. H. Harrison, and one, of the 17th October,
from James Bowdoin, esq. were read:
Ordered, That they be referred to the board of war.
Resolved, That a committee of two be appointed to confer with the council
of safety of Pennsylvania, and enquire what quantity of salt they have on
hand, or expect shortly, and what prºportion can be spared for the public
Sel"Vlce :
The members chosen, Mr. S. Adams, and Mr. Whi ple.
Information being given to Congress, that part of the enemy’s fleet was
seen coming ºut of the Hook, and steering its course to the southward :
Resolved, That copies of the letter, giving the information, be sent by ex-
Press to general Washington, and to governor Livingston, of New-Jersey, and
also to the southern states.
Resolved, That the board of war confer immediately with the council of
safety.9f Pennsylvania, and co-operate with them in devising ways and means
for calling forth the strength of that and the neighboring states, for the de-
fence of this city, against any attempts which the enemy may make to obtain
Possession of it; and that, for this purpose, the board of war be invested with
the ſull powers of Congress, to promote most effectually this important purpose:
That the marine committee also be directed to make such disposition of the
naval force, now in the river Delaware, or the neighborhood thereof, as will
best conduce to defeat the designs of the enemy. -
548 * JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JWoven.ber 15, 1776.
A letter, of the 11th, from general Washington, at Peek's-kill; one, of the
5th, from general Gates, at Ticonderoga, informing of general Carlton’s re-
treat from Crown-Point; one, of the 8th, from general Schuyler, at Albany;
one of the 12th, from general Green; one, without date, from general Lewis;
one from Robert Ogden, of the 11th ; and one from R. Dallam to R. Peters,
were laid before Congress, and read:
ºrd, That the letter from general Lewis be referred to the marine com-
mittee. &
Resolved, That the council of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to sup-
ply E. Blain, esq., with 230 bushels of salt, for the public service: That the
said council of safety be, and they are hereby requested, to supply Messrs.
Lowry, Wharton, Ogden, and Dunham, assistants to the commissary-general,
or any one of them, with one half of such quantities of salt, as are, or may be,
in their hands, for the use of the continent.
Two memorials, one from Eleazer Oswald, and the other from Samuel Lock-
wood, were read:
Ordered, That they be referred to the board of war.
M. Romand de Lisle, who, on the 12th, was appointed a major of artillery,
thinking that appointment inadequate to his merit and abilities, and requesting
to be sent to general Washington, that he may have an opportunity of giving a
specimen of his abilities:
Resolved, That he have leave to go to general Washington.
Ordered, That the marine committee apply to the council of safety of Penn-
Sylvania, for 1500 24 lb. 1800 18 lb. cannon shot, and 500 bar-shot, which shall
be re-placed by Congress; and that the said committee send the shot and 'six
tons of powder to South-Carolina, for the defence of that state and North-
Carolina:
That a copy of the intelligence contained in general Green’s letter of the
12th, be sent by express, with all possible expedition, to the southern states.
The secret committee having reported, that the cargo belonging to the con-
timent, imported in the Hancock & Adams, consisted of the following articles,
viz. 72 chests of arms, 311 barrels of gunpowder, 338 pigs of lead, 9 casks of
gun-flints, 1 case of pins, 133 barrels tin-plates, 5 cases of iron-wire, 70 casks
of salt-petre, and 10 bales of merchandise:
Resolved, That the secret committee direct the entire cargo of the Hancock
& Adams to be landed at Bedford, and, deposited in places of safety, under the
care of the committee of that place, until ordered from thence:
That the muskets, powder, lead, and gun-flints, be delivered by the com-
mittee of Bedford, to the order of the board of war, who are to inform the ge-
neral of these stores, and direct the whole, or any part that may be wanted for
the use of the army, to be delivered to him; with an injunction not to put the
muskets into the hands of any but those soldiers who inlist under the late re-
solves and regulations of Congress:
That every part of the merchandise on board the said ship, that is now
wanted for the use of the army, be applied to that use, and that the secret
committee inform general Mifflin, the quarter-master general, thereof, and en-
close him an order for the immediate delivery of all such parts as he shall desire:
That the remainder of the cargo be subject to the directions of the secret
committee, who are empowered to order it from thence, either by sea or land,
to any other part or parts of these states, where the articles may be wanted
for the public service.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
*JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 549
-*-
To the trustees for the poor of Frederick county, Maryland, for board and
attendance of sick soldiers of the Maryland troops in continental service, 58 30
dollars, to be paid to Nicholas Hower:
To Dr. Nicholas Way, for medicine, attendance, lodging, nursing, &c. of
sick soldiers of the 5th and 6th Virginia regiments, 467 36 dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee relative to the
navy; Whereupon, e
, Resolved, That a bounty of 20 dollars be paid to the commanders, officers,
and men of such continental ships or vessels of war, as shall make prize of
any British ships or vessels of war, for every cannon mounted on board each
prize, at the time of such capture, and 8 dollars per head for every man then
on board and belonging to such prize :
That the rank of the naval officers be to the rank of officers in the land ser-
vice, as follows:
Admiral àS 3. General, Captain of a ship of 20
Vice-Admiral Lieutenant-general, to 40 guns Lieutenant-colonel,
Rear-Admiral Major-general, Captain of a ship of 10
Commodore Brigadier-general, to 20 guns Major,
Captain of a ship of 40 Lieutenant in the navy Captain.
guns and upwards Colonel,
That the pay of all officers and men in the American navy, from the date
of the new commissions, under the free and independent states of America, be
as follows:

Of ships of 20 guns Per calendar Of 10 to 20 Ofships of 20 guns Per calendar of 10 to 20
and upwards. month. 97tns. and upwards, month. 3rums.
Captain 60 dolls. 48 dolls. Armourer, 9 dolls. 9 dolls.
Lieutenant, 30 24 Sail-maker, 10 10
aster, 30 24 Sail-maker's mate, 8% 8%
aster's Thate, 15 15 Yeoman, 8% 83
Boatswain, 15 13 Quarter-master, 9 8 1-2
Boatswain's mate, 93. 9 Cook, 9 8 1-2
Gunner, 15 13 Coxswain, 9 9
Gunner’s mate, 9 1-2 9. Captain’s clerk, 15 13
Surgeon, 25 21 2-3 |Steward, 10 10
Surgeon’s mate, 15 133 Chaplain, 20 In Olle
-Carpenter, 15 13 Yeoman of powder
Carpenter’s mate, 93. 9 room, 9 1-2 9
Cooper, 9 9 Master at arms, 10 9
Midshipman, 12 12 Seamen, 8 8
That vessels, under ten guns, be commanded by lieutenants:
That the pay of the officers in such vessels he,
Lieutenant commanding, 30 dollars; Gunner, - 12 dollars;
Mate, tº- 5 Carpenter, * 12
Boatswain, wº- 12
The other officers and men the same as in vessels from 10 to 20 guns:
Marine officers, Captain, 30 dollars. Lieutenant, 20 dollars.
Non-commissioned officers and soldiers the same as in the land service.
{esolved, That the president write to general Washington, and inform him,
he has leave to negotiate an exchange of the foreign troops in the pay of Great-
Britain, that are prisoners to these states.
Congress took into consideration a report from the board of treasury, for
Sºying into execution the resolutions of Congress relative to the loan-offices;
hereupon, - º
Fesolved, That the certificates be of the following denominations:
737 of 1000 737,000 2940 of 400 1,176,000
1470 of 600 882,000 3675 of 300 1,102,500
2205 of 500 1,102,500
11,027 5,000,000
550 JoURNALs of congBESS, 17ms
That the value or denomination of the certificates, be, in different parts
thereof in print and writing:
That each denomination have a check-letter, corresponding with a letter in
the margin to be left in the book:
That the several denominations be further distinguished from each other,
by having the border, at the end of the certificate, varied or altered from the
rest:
That the engraved ornaments between the margin, or part left in the book
and the certificate, be cut indentwise, first having occasional dashes made with
a pen across it, of the colour with which the treasurer signs his name:
That the impressions of the rolling-press, with the signature of the treasurer,
in certificates of the highest denomination, be made with yellow-ink, of the
second with blue, of the third with red, of the fourth with green, and of the fifth
or lowest denomination with purple.
A petition from Joseph Dean, Matthew Irwin, John Dunlap and Benjamin
Harbeson, was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of war.
Dr. Charles Ludwig having been duly examined on the practice of surgery
and medicine, and recommended as duly qualified,
Itesolved, That he be appointed surgeon to the German battalion.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, JVovember 16, 1776.
Resolved, That 300 dollars be advanced to the secretary of the board of
war, for contingent expenses; he to be accountable.
Resolved, That it be recountmended to the convention of North-Carolina, to
station brigadier-general Moore, with the regular troops under his command, i
such parts of that state, or of the state of South-Carolina, where they"Will be
in a capacity to render immediate and seasonable assistance to their friends in
jºjº. and that they may be on the spot to oppose the enemy, when,
and wheresoever, they shall attempt to make their . good in that state;
and that the convention of North-Carolina do, immediately, at the continental
expense, embody 5000 militia, to complete any military operations already be-
gun by general Moore, to defend the state of North-Carolina, or march to the
relief of their neighboursin South-Carolina, or Virginia, where there shall be most
occasion for their support.
The committee on the lottery, brought in a report, which was read:
Ordered, That it be taken into consideration on Monday next.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, JVovember 18, 1776.
Resolved, That 40,000 dollars be advanced to the council of safety of Penn-
sylvania; the said state to be accountable.
A letter, of the 14th, from general Washington, enclosing copies of letters
which passed between him and general Howe; one of the 6th, from general
Gates; one, of the 10th, from Richard Stockton and G. Clymer, esqrs. at
Albany; one, of the 11th, from general Schuyler, at Albany; one, of the
16th, from general Stephens, at Amboy; one, of the 1st, from B. Harrison,
pay-master in the southern department; and, one of the 8th, from brigadier-
general Lewis, at Williamburg, were read:
Ordered, That the letters from general Washington, general Schuyler,
general Gates, and brigadier-general Stephens, be referred to the board of war;
that the letters from brigadier-general Lewis and B. Harrison, be referred to
the board of treasury.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 551
A letter and memorial from Joseph Trumbull, esq. and a memorial from E.
Hazard, were read :
Resolved, That they be referred to the board of war.
A letter from Juliana Zedwitz was read, and referred to the committee on
the state of prisoners.
Resolved, That a member be added to the said committee, and that they be
directed to take into consideration the case of lieutenant M“Lean, who was
sent to Philadelphia by general Wooster:
The member chosen, Mr. Hooper.
The marine committee having recommended Francis Hopkinson, esq. as a
fit person to execute the business of the navy, under their direction,
Resolved, That he be accepted.
A memorial of Isaac Cox, in behalf of Alexander Frazer and others, inha-
bitants of the Island of Providence, owners of two sloops called the Dragon
and the Molly, taken by private sloops of war, called the Congress and Chance,
and brought into the port of Philadelphia, but afterwards released, praying for
letters of safe conduct for the said sloops to the port of Providence, in order
to prevent any arrest or molestation by the vessels of war in the service of the
United States:
Resolved, That the prayer of the petition be granted.
A petition from Muscoe Livingston, was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of three:
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Wythe and Mr. Ross.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the lottery;
Whereupon, *
Resolved, That the scheme of the lottery be as follows, viz.
That it consist of 100,000 tickets, each ticket to be divided into four billets,
drawn in four classes.
$, at 10 dollars each billet, - - - 1,000,000
eduction, at 15 per cent. - tº- * . - 150,000
850,000
Prizes. 1 of 10,000 --> - º =s 10,000
2 of 5,000 - * * wº 10,000
30 of 1,000 - +- * º 30,000
400 of 500 - - º se 200,000
20,000 of 20 * - * sº 400,000
Carried to the fourth class, tº- º gº 200,000 850,000
Second class, 100,000 billets at 20 dollars each, 2,000,000
Deduction, at 15 per cent. * tºº * tº- 300,000
1,700,000
Prizes. 1 of 20,000 - º sº &º 20,000
2 of 10,000 - -y º wº 20,000
10 of 5,000 - º * * 50,000
100 of 1,000 - - * º 100,000
820 of 500 - sº º sº 410,000
20,000 of 30 - - º * 600,000
Carried to the fourth class, - º * 500,000 1,700,000
Third class, 100,000 billets at 30 dollars each, - - 3,000,000
Deduction, at 15 per cent. tºº - - - 450,000
& - 2,550,000
Prizes. 1 of 30,000 - •- * *sº 30,000
1 of 20,000 - ** * 20,000


552 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
* -ºr-g-g
2 of 15,000 tº sº * * 30,000
2 of 10,000 tº iss sº * 20,000
10 of 5,000 tº *** wº- º 50,000
200 of 1,000 wº tº a * * º 200,000
1000 of 500 º * * º 500,000
20,000 of 40 Yºsi tº gº gº 800,000
Carried to the 4th class, gº fººt sº 900,000 2,550,000
Fourth class, 100,000 billets at 40 dollars each, tº 4,000,000
Deduction, at 15 per cent. * tº tº ºw 600,000
3,400,000
Brought from the first class, *s * 200,000
from the second class, * ºp 500,000
from the third class, *º *s 900,000
Total, 5,000,000
Prizes. 1 of 50,000 wº º tº s 50,000
2 of 25,000 - sº sº *g, 50,000
2 of 10,000 - sº º sº 20,000
10 of 5,000 * - sº wº º 50,000
100 of 1,000 º lºº gºe º 100,000
200 of 500 - tº- * sº 100,000
1000 of 300 º & tº sº 300,000
15,000 of 200 tºº * • * 3,000,000
20,000 of 50 gº wº zº- * 1,300,000
gººmsºmºmºmºmºmº 5,000,000
The lottery being intended to raise a sum of money on loan, bearing an a
nual interest of four per cent. which, with the sums arising from th *
is to be applied for carrying on the present most just and nece
defence of the lives, liberties and property of the inhabitants of these Unite
States:
Resolved, That the fortunate adventurers in the 1st class, who draw more
than 20 dollars, and so in the 2d and 3d classes, who draw more than 30 or 40
dollars, shall, at their option, receive a treasury bank note for the prize or
prizes drawn, payable at the end of five years, and an annual interest on the
same, at the rate of four per cent. or the pre-emption of such billets in the
next succeeding class, as shall not be renewed within the time hereinafter li-
mited. Every adventurer in the 1st class shall have a right to go through the
subsequent classes, but shall not be obliged to do it. The drawers of 20, 30
and 40 dollars in the 1st, 2d and 3d classes, who do not apply for their money
within six weeks after the drawing ends, shall be deeme tºº. in the
next succeeding class, and have their billets renewed without any further
trouble. If any others shall neglect or decline taking out and paying the price
of their billets, for a subsequent class, within six weeks after the drawing ends,
their billets will be sold to the fortunate adventurers in the preceding class, or
to such as shall apply for the same. The fortunate adventurers in the last
class, who draw 50 dollars, shall, upon application to the commissioners of the
loan offices in the respective states, where the drawers reside, receive their
money, without any deduction, and all who draw above that sum, shall receive
in like manner, without deduction, for the sums drawn, bank treasury notes
ayable at the end of five years after the drawing, at the loan office of the state
in which the drawers reside. The interest to commence from the last day of
drawing, and to be paid annually at the said respective loan-offices:
That, for carrying into execution the said lottery, there shall be seven mana-
gers, who shall give bond, and be on oath, for the faithful discharge of their duty :
That the money, as fast as received by the managers for billets, be lodged
in the continental treasury :


Journals of CONGRESS, 1776. 553
*
That the drawing of the first class begin at Philadelphia, on the 1st of March,
1777, or sooner, if sooner full. e
Resolved, That the further consideration of the report be postponed till to-
In Orro W.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, JW ovember 19, 1776.
The convention of Maryland having appointed new delegates, two of them
attending, produced the credentials of their appointment, which were read, as
follows:
“MARYLAND. In Convention, JWovember 19, 1776.
Resolved, That the hon. Matthew Tilghman, esq. and Thomas Johnson, jun.
William Paca, Thomas Stone, Samuel Chase, Benjamin Rumsey, and Charles
Carroll, Bar. esquires, or any three or more of them, be delegates to represent
this state in Congress, until the first day of March next, or until the general
assembly shall make further order therein; and that the said delegates, or any
three or more of them, be authorized and empowered to concur with the other
United States, or a majority of them, in forming a confederation, and in mak-
ing foreign alliances; provided that such confederation, when form,ed, be not
binding upon this state without the assent of the general assembly; and the
said delegates, or any three or more of them, are also authorized and empower-
ed to concur in any measures which may be resolved on by Congress, for car-
rying on the war with Great-Britain, and securing the liberties of the United
States, reserving always to this state the sole and exclusive right of regulating
the internal police thereof. And the said delegates, or any three or more of
, are hereby authorized and empowered, notwithstanding any measure
en to concur with the Congress, or a majority of them, in accom -
ãºfigº unhappy difference with Great-Britain; on such terms as the Con-
gress, or a majority of them, shall think proper.
Extract from the minutes: G. DUWAL.”
Resolved, That the board of treasury be directed, in settling brigadier-ge-
neral Armstrong’s accounts, to allow his charge for travelling expenses to and
from South-Carolina, amounting to 400 dollars :
A letter, of the 16th, from general Washington, and one of the 17th, from
C. Biddle, were read.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That 100 three pounders, 50 six pounders, 50 twelve pounders, 13
eighteen pounders, and 18 twenty-four pounders, all of brass, be immediately
provided as field artillery, for the use of the armies of the United States :
That the secret committee be directed to take the most effectual measures for
procuring the said brass artillery; that the said committee confer with the
º for procuring cannon, and consult with them how many they can
provide : *
That this matter be kept as secret as the nature of the business will admit.
Resolved, That 400 dollars be advanced to the delegates of North-Carolina,
for the use of that state, which is to be accountable.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report on the lottery; Where-
upon, ,
Resolved, That each of the managers shall receive for his trouble one-tenth
Pe. Centuum on all the money he shall receive on the sale of the tickets:
That the tickets or billets be sold for ready money :
That each º: * give bond to the president, for the use of the Unit-
OL. 1. 70

554 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
*
ed States, in the penalty of 20,000 dollars, for the faithful discharge of their
trust.
Resolved, That a member be added to the committee appointed to hear the
appeal against the sentence passed on the libel, John Barry, &c. vs. the sloop
Betsey, &c. in the room of Mr. Rutledge.
The member chosen, Mr. Chase.
Congress being informed, there are two ensigncies vacant in the German
* proceeded to elect persons to fill up the same; and the ballots being
taken,
George Howard and Jacob Laudermilk were elected.
The committee of treasury reported, that there ought to be advanced to co-
lonel James Livingston the sum of 2,000 dollars, for which he is to account
with the commissioners for auditing the accounts in the northern department:
That there is due to Edward Rutledge, esq. for cash he paid by order of Con-
gress, to Joseph Beck, an express to South-Carolina, with despatches, inter-
cepted with Kirkland, &c. the sum of 133.30 dollars, and for the expenses of
himself, Dr. Franklin, and Mr. Adams, a committee to Staten-Island and back,
71:30 dollars ; the whole amounting to 204.60 dollars:
To Jos. Baldwin, for ferriage of militia over Neshaminy ferry, 6.54 dollars:
ºnel Pugh, for victualling troops of the flying-camp, on their march,
8 dollars : \
To John Jarvis, for ferriage over Neshaminy, 12.21 dollars, and horse-hire
to different expresses, 10.36 dollars, the whole 22.57 dollars:
That there should be paid to the board of war, to be by them sent to Ben-
jamin Harrison, jun. esq. deputy pay-master general in Virginia, the sum of
300,000 dollars, for the use of the army in that department:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the board of º
e -
13th instant: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the commissary-general, or his deputies, make regular we º
ly returns of all rations issued or paid to the officers and privates of any regi:
ment, troop, or company in the service of the states, to the adjutant-general
or his deputies, to be by him inserted in the general returns of the army, and
transmitted to Congress monthly: º
That, on any sick or disabled non-commissioned officer or soldier, being
sent to any hospital or sick-quarters, the captain or commandant of the troop
or company to which he belongs, shall send to the surgeon, or director of the
said hospital, or give to the non-commissioned officer or soldier, so in the hos-
pital or quarters, a certificate, countersigned by the pay-master of the regi-
ment, if he be with the regiment, of what pay is due to such sick non-commis-
sioned officer or private, at the time of his entering the hospital or quarters;
and the captain or commandant of the troop or company, shall not receive the
pay of the said soldier in hospital or quarters, or include him in any pay-ab;
stract during his continuance therein. And, in case any non-commissioned
officer or soldier shall be discharged from the hospital or quarters, as unfit for
farther service, a certificate shalfbe given him, by the surgeon or director, ol
what pay is then due to him; and the said non-commissioned officer or soldier,
80 discharged, shall be entitled to receive his pay at any lº. or from
any pay-master in the service of the United States; the said pay-Anaster keep-
ing such original certificate, to prevent impositions, and giving the non-colu-
missioned officer or soldier his discharge, or a certified copy thereof, mention:
ing, at the same time, his having been paid : • * tº
That this resolution be transmitted to the commanders in chief in the sº
veral departments, to be by them given out in orders, and then delivered "
the directors of the hospitals in each department, who are to cause the same º
be fixed up in some conspicuous place, or places, in every military hospit”
for the information of all concerned :


JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 555
2–s-
2–-
That letters be immediately sent to the councils of safety, conventions, or le-
gislatures of Pennsylvania, and the states to the southward thereof, desiring
them, forthwith, to lay up magazines of military stores, ammunition, and salt
provisions, in the safest and most convenient places in the said states, res-
pectively, for the use of such continental troops and militia, as it may be neces-
sary to bring into the field in the ensuing winter, for the defence of these states:
That some proper person be appointed to act in the capacity of armorer, to
assist the commissary of stores in inspecting, superintending repairs, and
taking care of all continental arms in the public magazines at Philadelphia.
Congress deem it necessary, upon every principle of propriety, to remind
the several states, how indispensable it is to the common safety, that they pur-
sue the most immediate and vigorous measures to furnish their respective
quotas of troops for the new army, as the time of service, for which the pre-
sent army is inlisted, is so near expiring, that the country may be left in a
condition in a great measure defenceless, unless quickly supplied by new
levies. -
Resolved, That major Stewart, who brought the late intelligence from gen.
Gates, and who is recommended as a deserving officer, have the rank of lieu-
tenant-colonel by brevet, and be presented with a sword of the value of one
hundred dollars.
The several matters to this day referrod being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, JVovember 20, 1776.
Resolved, That 40,000 dollars be advanced to Mr. J. Mease, for the public
service ; he to be accountable.
*The keeper of the public prison, having informed Congress, that he has dis-
vered a plot among the prisoners to effect an escape, which one of them has
accomplished ; and that he has good reason to believe horses are purchased in
Philadelphia, and kept ready for them, when they shall have escaped from pri-
son ; it was, thereupon,
Resolved, That the gaol-keeper be directed to keep the prisoners in his cus-
tody close locked up till further orders:
†. it be recommended to the council of safety of Pennsylvania, to ex-
amine Mr. Jewell, the gaol-keeper, respecting this matter, and to take every
measure in their power to find out the accomplices in the plot, if any there
{ll'C,
A letter, of the 18th, from lord Stirling, was read.
The board of war, to whom were referred the memorials from captain Lock-
Wood, and captain Oswald, brought in a report, which was taken into consi-
deration : Whereupon,
Resolved, That such parts of the said memorials as relate to their pay, be
referred to the board of treasury.
A letter, of the 2d, from the council of safety of Maryland, was read, and
referred to the board of war.
A letter, of the 6th, from general Lee to Dr. Franklin, having been sent to
the board of war, and by them opened, was laid before Congress and read :
Ordered, That the board of war prepare a letter to general Lee, and report
the same to Congress.
Congress proceeded to the election of managers of the lottery, and the bal-
lots being taken, the following gentlemen were chosen, viz.
Sharp Delany, John Purviance, Owen Biddle, Francis Lewis, jun. Jacob
Barge, Jonathan B. Smith, and James Searle.
*esolved, That a member be added to the secret committee, in the room of
Mr. Bartlett, who is absent.
The member chosen, Mr. Whipple,
3.
556 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
Resolved, That the post-master general be directed to remove Bessonet, of
Bristol, in Pennsylvania, from the office of deputy post-master, and appoint
some other trusty person, in that town, to that office:
That the committee, appointed to enquire into the circumstances of the loss
of the packet from general Washington, be directed to apply to the council of
safety of Pennsylvania, to apprehend Bessonet, of Bristol, and his bar-keeper,
and bring them to Philadelphia, for examination, taking care to keep them
º and that they have the assistance of the continental troops in Philadel-
phia, if necessary :
That the said committee write to the commanding officer of the continen-
tal troops in New-Jersey, to make diligent search for one Wilkins, who was
at the tavern in Bristol when the packet was lost, and to send him, if found,
under guard to Philadelphia. *
Resolved, That the board of war be empowered to administer oaths to per-
sons examined by them. wº
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To lieut. Smith, for his expenses with a party to escort money to Bruns-
wick, and to Fort Montgomery, a balance of 19.19 dollars, the amount of his
account being 55.19 dollars, of which he received from Robert Erwin, 32 dol-
lars, and from R. Dallam, 4 dollars, remains 19.19 dollars.
Ordered, That the same be paid.
The board of treasury reported farther instructions to the commissioners
for auditing the accounts of the army, under the command of general Wash-
ington, which were agreed to as follows:
*That in adjusting the accounts of persons, whose particular circumstances
may have rendered them unable to procure vouchers, or who, by unavoidable
accidents, have lost the same, or any part of the public stores committed to
their care, the commissioners endeavour to obtain the best information froñº
the general officers, or other persons relative to such accounts, and use a dis-
cretionary power in administering oaths or affirmations previous to their set-
tling the same: º
That the commissioners send to the state of Virginia, and to the states
northward and eastward thereof, for their accounts against the said army, if
such accounts should not be forwarded, agreeable to a circular letter from the
board of treasury to the said states:
That the commissioners use every precaution to prevent the loss of any
public books or papers, that may be in their possession; and, for this purpose,
that they apply to the quarter-master general for a wagon and horses, to be
under their direction: #
That they consider the flying-camp as part of general Washington's army,
and adjust the accounts accordingly :
The marine committee brought in a report for increasing the navy of the
United States, which was taken into consideration; Whereupor,
Resolved, That there be immediately undertaken,
In New-Hampshire, 1 ship of 74 guns, In Pennsylvania, 1 brig of 18 guns, and a
In Massachusetts-Bay, 1 ditto of 74 ditto, packet-boat;
1 ditto of 36 ditto, In Virginia, 2 frigates of 36 ditto, each;
In Pennsylvania, 1 ditto of 74 ditto, In Maryland, 2 ditto of 36 ditto each.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, JNovember 21, 1776.
Resolved, That 250 dollars be advanced to captain Gabriel Long, of the late
colonel Stevenson's battalion, for the purpose of recruiting his company; he to
be accountable :
That captain Long's accounts be referred to the board of treasury.
A
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 557
As the necessity of obtaining an army immediately, to oppose the designs of
the enemy, is so evident and pressing as to render it proper tº give all possi-
ble facility to that business;
Resolved, That each state be at liberty to direct their recruiting officers to
inlist their men either for the war or three years, upon the respective bounties
offered by Congress, without presenting inlisting rolls for both terms, according
to a former resolution ; keeping it always in view, that, in the opinion of Con-
gress, the public service will be best promoted by inlistments for the war, if
the recruiting service is not retarded thereby.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Samuel Lockwood, for his pay as assistant-engineer in the army in
Canada, from the 5th November, 1775, to the 18th of May, 1776, at 20 dol-
lars per month, 128.60 dollars; and from the 19th of May, to the 5th Novem-
ber, at 30 dollars per month, 167 dollars; the whole, 295.60 dollars:
To John Bates, for two fire hoods, shovel, tongs, &c. for the use of the trea-
sury-office, 16.36 dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JVovember 22, 1776.
A letter, of the 20th, from general Mercer, was read:
Ordered, That an extract thereof be sent to the assembly and council of
Pennsylvania. •º-
Congress being informed that a number of sick soldiers were sent to Phila-
delphia from the flying-camp, and lodged in the barracks, and it being appre-
hended that their continuance in the barracks may endanger the health of the
soldiers there,
Ordered, That the medical committee take charge of the said sick, and
have them quartered in private houses, and properly taken care of, and that
they immediately attend to this business :
That Dr. Ludwig be directed to attend the said sick.
The committee to whom was referred the petition and memorial of Mrs.
Zedwitz, brought in a report, which was taken into consideration: Where-
tlpOh,
"ºwled, That lieutenant-colonel Zedwitz be removed to Philadelphia, and
eonfined in the state-prison; and that due care be taken to prevent him from
any intercourse or correspondence with the enemies of these states:
That the sum of 58.49 dollars be paid to Mrs. Zedwitz, in full for services
done for the continent, as set forth in her petition : ,
That the further sum of 80 dollars be paid to the said Mrs. Zedwitz, in full
for two months’ pay due to her husband.
Resolved, That iO0,000 dollars be advanced to the council of safety of Penn-
sylvania; that state to be accountable.
Congress taking into consideration the present state of the army, of which
some parts have already disbanded, and others will probably do so when the
times they are engaged for, shall expire, which must soon happen; so that there
is great danger that the enemy must be opposed either by unequal numbers, or
by militia, not only a more expensive but a less efficacious aid than regular
forces; and there being good grounds to hope that vigorous efforts at this criti-
cal juncture, may bring the war to a speedy as well as happy conclusion:
Resolved, That blank commissions be sent to general Washington, and that
he be empowered to insert therein the names of such officers as he shall think
fit, not revoking those appointments which have been made by commission-
ers from any of the United States; and the general, commissioners, and offi-
cers are conjured to recruit, by all the means in their power, the regiments now
55S JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. |
or lately in the camp; and that a committee of three be appointed to repair to
head-quarters, and, consulting with the general, assist in the accomplishment
of this necessary business.
The members chosen, Mr. Paca, Mr. Witherspoon, and Mr. Ross.
Ordered, That the said committee make particular enquiry why the troops
are not * and that they enquire into, and redress to the utmost of their
power, the just grievances of the soldiers.
Resolved, That the sum of 166,666.60 dollars be advanced to the state of
Massachusetts-Bay, in part of their account against the continent; the said
state to be accountable.
Ordered, That a copy of the resolutions respecting the lottery be delivered
to the managers, and that the said managers proceed immediately in carrying
the lottery into execution.
Congress took into consideration the report of the committee on the appli-
cation from the convention of New-York, respecting the waste of hides in the
army : Whereupon,
Resolved, That the commissaries in each department, be directed to employ
proper persons to take immediate charge of the hides and tallow in their re-
spective districts; that the former may be tanned into leather, or, at least, so
far cured as to prevent their being spoiled, and the latter rendered into kegs or
casks, that there be no waste of those valuable articles, but that they may be
stored for the use of the continent, and be subject to the orders of Congress ;
and that the said commissaries be strongly urged to pay due attention to this
resolve, it being a matter of considerable importance.
Resolved, That two months’ pay be advanced to Dr. Ludwig, of the Ger-
man battalion; he to be accountable.
A state of the inconveniencies to which the troops on the Eastern-Shore of
Virginia are particularly subject, was laid before Congress and read :
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of war.
A letter, of the 16th, from J. Trumbull, commissary-general, was read, ad-
vising, that he had, on that day, drawn on the president, at four days sight, in
favor of Mr. Matthew Irwin, for the sum of 20,000 dollars, to purchase pork and
flour, and desiring the same may be paid and charged to his (J. Trumbull’s)
account :
Resolved, That the president draw an order on the treasurer for the pay-
ment of the said bills, and that the money be accordingly charged to the ac-
count of J. Trumbull.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, JW ovember 23, 1776.
A letter, of the 19th and 21st, from general Washington, was read:
Resolved, That 500,000 dollars be sent to the pay-master general :
That 250,000 dollars be sent to R. Dallam, esq.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed, with full powers, to de-
vise and execute measures for effectually reinforcing general Washington, and
obstructing the progress of general Howe's army; and they are ordered to
proceed immediately on this business.
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Smith, Mr. Chase, Mr. Clymer, and
Mr. Stockton. *
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to order the Virginia battalion,
on the Eastern-Shore, and the two Pennsylvania battalions, commanded by
colonel Mackay and colonel Cooke, to march, with all possible expedition;
the former to Philadelphia, and the two latter by the nearest route to Bruns-
wick, in New-Jersey, or to join general Washington wherever he may be ; and
that the said board use every means in their power to expedite the march of
these troops ; and they are ordered to attend immediately to this business.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 559
The better to oppose the progress of the enemy, * &
Resolved, That general Washington be directed to order, under his imme-
diate command, such of the forces, now in the northern department, as have
been raised in the states of Pennsylvania and New-Jersey, and that the com-
manding officer in the northern department, be directed to apply to the legis-
latures of the eastern states, to afford him such assistance as they may stand
in need of. *
Resolved, That general Washington be directed to propose to general Howe,
an exchange of William Franklin, esq. late governor of New-Jersey, for bri-
gadier-general Thompson.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To the committee of Northampton county, and to be paid to Jesse Jones, for
sundry supplies of provisions, wagons, &c. to the militia on their march to New-
Jersey, and for supplies to prisoners and continental troops, 1837 54 dollars:
To John Ashbe, for a wagon, horses, and a negro man, his property, lost in
the service of the states at New-York, 786 60 dollars.
To John Cox, for eight rifle guns, supplied by Edward Snicker, for the use
of captain Gabriel Long’s company, of Virginia riflemen, 146 60 dollars:
To lieut. Bogart & Ball, two prisoners of the British navy, and to be paid to
James Smith, esq. for their allowance, from 9th July, to 19th November, 1776,
inclusive, 19 weeks, at 2 dollars a week, 76 dollars:
To brigadier-general Armstrong, for his pay and rations, from 1st March, to
23d November, instant, inclusive, and his travelling expenses to and from
South-Carolina, 1781 63 dollars:
To Dr. David Jameson, for sundry medicines and attendance to sick soldiers
of captain Grier’s company, and captain Nelson’s company, in the continental
service, 290 24 dollars:
To colonel Jeremiah Dugan, for sundry supplies to the army in Canada, for
which he has now produced a voucher, the want of which prevented the same
being reported the 19th of August last, the sum of 484 73 dollars:
To the board of war, for a draft of R. Dallam, esq. deputy pay-master general,
dated New-Brunswick, the 21st instant, in favor of colonel Clement Biddle,
deputy quarter-master general, 10,000 dollars:
hat there should be paid to Richard Bache, esq. post-master general, as an
advance, for the use of the post-office, 2666 60 dollars:
Ordered, That the said sums be paid.
Resolved, That by any thing heretofore done, it is not intended to prejudice
or strengthen the right or claim of the United States, or any of them, to any
lands in America, nor to determine in what proportion or manner the expenses
of the war shall be raised or adjusted, except as to the first three millions of
dollars emitted by Congress, and a farther emission of three millions of dollars,
on December 26, 1775.
Resolved, That 20,000 dollars be advanced to the commissioners appointed
by the convention of Maryland, to raise their quota of troops; they to be ac-
countable.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, JNovember 25, 1776.
A letter, of the 23d, from general Washington, at Newark, was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of the whole Congress; and
that general Mifflin, who brought the letter, be desired to attend the said com-
mittee.
Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole; and, after
some time, the president resumed the chair, and Mr. Nelson reported, that the
committee have had under consideration the letter referred to them, and have
560 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
heard general Mifflin on the subject; and, thereupon, came to sundry resolu-
tions, which he was ordered to report; but, that not having finished, desired
leave to sit again.
The resolutions reported from the committee of the whole, being read, were
agreed to as follows:
Resolved, That the council of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to call
forth, immediately, the associators in the city and liberties of Philadelphia,
and in the counties of Philadelphia, Chester, Bucks, and Northampton, to con-
tinue in the service of the United States, six weeks from the time they join the
army, unless sooner discharged by Congress:
That the volunteers who shall enrol to serve the United States to the 10th
of March next, shall, nevertheless, be discharged as soon as the situation of
public affairs will possibly admit; it being the intention of Congress to detain
them no longer than the present emergency shall render it absolutely necessary:
That 35,000 dollars be advanced to the council of safety of Pennsylvania,
for the public service; the said state to be accountable:
That 4000 dollars be advanced to colonel Hausegger, for the use of his bat-
talion; he to be accountable:
That the board of war be directed to order the German battalion to march
immediately, and join general Washington:
That the said board write to governor Henry, of Virginia, and request him to
order the light-horse, in the service of that state, to march, with all possible
expedition, to join general Washington :
That the said board order brigadier-general Roche de Fermoy, to repair im-
mediately to general Washington, instead of going to the northward.
Resolved, That general Mºš. be directed to stay in the city of Philadelphia
until general Washington shall require his attendance at the camp, and that
general Washington be informed of this by the President.
Resolved, That Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into consideration the state of the army.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUFSDAY, JVovember 26, 1776.
A letter, of the 8th, from George Morgan, at Pittsburg, and one, of the 21st,
from the council of safety of Maryland, were read.
Resolved, That 1000 dollars be advanced to Robert Erwin, wagon-master
general, for the public service; he to be accountable. *
Congress being informed that some persons in the city of Philadelphia, go-
verned by principles inimical to the cause of America, and with views of ava-
rice and extortion, have monopolized and engrossed shoes, stockings, and other
necessaries for the army, whilst the soldiers of the continent, fighting for the
liberties of their country, are exposed to the injuries of the weather, at this
inclement season: *
Resolved, That it be recommended to the assembly of the state of Pennsyl-
vania, to adopt such immediate measures for remedying this evil, as their
wisdom shall suggest to be adequate to the present purpose, and for preventing
like pernicious practices for the future.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That a regiment of artillery, to be armed with muskets and bayo-
nets, instead of fusees, be raised in the state of Virginia, on continental esta-
blishment; the two companies, already raised there, to be part of the said
regiment; which is to be, composed of one colonel, one lieutenant colonel, one
major, and ten companies, each to consist of one captain three lieutenants,
one serjeant, four bombardiers, eight gunners, four corporals, and 48 matrosses.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 564
Resolved, That 1150 dollars be paid to Gerard W. Beekman or order, and
charged to the account of Richard Dallam, esq., deputy pay-master general, the
same being in full of a draught of the said R. Dallam on R. Peters, esq. Sººre.
tary of the board of war, in favor of the said G. W. Beekman, dated New
Brunswick, November 15th, 1776. º
Mr. F. Lewis, jun. having informed Congress that he cannot, consistent
with his private engagements, undertake to be a manager of the lottery, and
desiring to be excused from that service,
Resºlved, That he be excused, and that another be elected in his room:
The ballots being taken, Dr. David Jackson was elected.
Ordered, That the committee, who brought in the scheme of the lottery, COIl-
fer with the managers thereof, in order that they may proceed on that business.
Congress resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into cºnsi-
deration the state of the army; and, after some time, the president resumed the
chair, and Mr. Nelson reported, that the committee have had under considera-
tion the matter to them referred, and have come to sundry resolutions, which
he was ordered to lay before Congress.
The resolutions reported from the committee of the whole, being read, were
agreed to as follows:
Resolved, That the cannon-committee be directed to enquire what quantity
of cannon are on board the prize-ship that arrived yesterday in the port of
Philadelphia; and, if they are fit for field-artillery, to take measures to have
them mounted on proper carriages, and sent to general Washington :
That the assembly of the state of Pennsylvania be requested to give imme-
diate direction, that the brass field-pieces, with the artillery companies, or the
field-pieces singly, if there be no such companies belonging to this state, be,
with all possible expedition, sent to general Washington’s army in New Jer-
sey, and that they be assured, that, as soon as the situation of affairs will ad-
mit, they shall be returned, or others in lieu of the said field pieces:
That Mr. Mease, the continental commissary in the city of Philadelphia, be
directed to go to the several shops and stores in the said city, and purchase,
for the use of the army of the United States, such articles as are necessary for
them, at this and the approaching season of the year; and that he be empow-
ered to employ as many persons as he shall judge necessary to assist him in
this service:
That the council of safety of Pennsylvania be requested, with all possible
expedition, to cause application to be made to the house-keepers and others in
the said state, for as many blankets and woollen stockings as each can spare,
for the use of the soldiers under the immediate command of general Washing-
ton, in New-Jersey; and that they be delivered, as fast as collected, to Mr.
Mease, the continental commissary :
That it be recommended to the said council of safety, to appoint persons to
appraise the blankets and woollen stockings, so collected, as aforesaid, that
the value of them may be paid:
That the committee, who are sent to the camp, be directed to make particu-
lar enquiry into the abuses in the medical department in the army, and report
thereon to Congress. e sº
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow. *
WEDNESDAY, JNovember 27, 1776.
A memorial from Thomas Denef was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of war.
The board of war brought in a report, which was taken into consideration :
Whereupon,
Vol. I. 71
562 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That Congress appoint the officers of the artillery battalion, agreed
to be raised in Virginia.
A petition and memorial from John Sergeant was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the committee on the letter from Thomas
Cushing, esq. and that the report on that subject by them made, be re-com-
mitted.
Resolved, That the delegates from the four New England governments be
directed to take the most effectual measures to have, at least, 10,000 pair of
shoes, and 10,000 pair of stockings, purchased in those states, and sent to ge-
neral Washington’s head-quarters, with all possible expedition, for the use of
the soldiers under his command.
Ordered, That the secret committee take proper and effectual measures to
procure a quantity of hard money, not less than 20,000 dollars, to be lodged
in the hands of the commander in chief, for the purpose of secret services.
The committee who were appointed, in conjunction with the council of
safety of Pennsylvania, to examine Bessonet and his bar-keeper, having re-
ported, that, after the most diligent enquiry, they find nothing proved against
Mr. Bessonet, and that the council of safety and said committee are of opinion
he ought to be discharged.
Ordered, That the said committee inform the said council of safety, that
Congress have no objection to their discharging Mr. Bessonet.
The committee appointed to repair to the northern army, having returned,
made a report, which was read:
Ordered, That the same, together with the papers accompanying it, be re-
ferred to a committee of five, and that they sit from day to day, and report
thereon as soon as possible:
The members chosen, Mr. S. Adams, Mr. Clymer, Mr. Livingston, Mr.
Wythe, and Mr Harrison.
Resolved, That 2500 dollars be paid to Mr. Abraham Livingston, and char-
ged to the account of Jonathan Trumbull, jun. esq. deputy pay-master general,
the same being in full of his draught in favour of the said A. Livingston, dated
Albany, 14th November, 1776.
An appeal having been lodged against the sentence passed in the court of
admiralty for the state of Virginia, on the libel, “Levin Jones, &c. vs. the
sloop Vulcan:”
Resolved, That the hearing and determining the said appeal, be referred to
Mr. Wythe, Mr. Paine, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Hooper, and Mr. Chase.
* jºi. ‘ed, That three members be added to the committee appointed to re-
vise the resolutions relative to captures:
The members chosen, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Hooper, and Mr. Chase.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the legislatures of the United States,
respectively, to pass such laws, as will, most effectually tend to prevent the
counterfeiting or forging of the tickets of the public lottery.
A letter from Mr. Ross, Mr. Paca, and Mr. Witherspoon was read, inform-
ing, that they have appointed an assistant quarter-master and countmissary, to
provide for a number of sick, and take care of stores sent to Princeton.
Ordered, That the president inform them that Congress approve of the
appointments.
Ordered, That the board of war, in conjunction with a member of the coun-
cil of safety of Pennsylvania, seize the person and papers of Monsieur Bonvo-
lour; and, having examined him and them, report to Congress.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to detain such companies of the
German battalion as have not already marched.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 563
—ºr
THURSDAY, JNovember 28, 1776.
Resolved, That 300 dollars be advanced to William Whitely, lieutenant:
colonel of colonel Richardson's battalion of the flying camp, from Maryland
for the use of some sick soldiers of said battalion, in Philadelphia, for which
he is to be accountable.
Resolved, That William Bradford, second-lieutenant in captain Smith’s
company of colonel Stevenson's battalion, be promoted to the rank of first-
lieutenant in the room of the first lieutenant of the said company, resigned.
A plan of an artillery-yard being laid before Congress,
Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of three :
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Paine, and Mr. Middleton.
Itsolved, That 533.30 dollars be advanced to colonel L. Cadwallader, for the
use of his battalion; he to be accountable :
That a like sum of 533.30 dollars be advanced to lieutenant-colonel Penrose,
for the use of the men belonging to colonel Magaw’s battalion; he to be ac-
countable.
The committee on the affairs of the northern army, brought in a report,
which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That a letter be sent to governor Trumbull, desiring him to order
20 cannon, carrying shot of 18 pounds weight, to be cast at Salisbury furnace,
and transported to Ticonderoga, with all possible expedition :
That skilful persons be sent to examine the Salisbury and Mr. Livingston's
founderies; and, if it be found that a sufficient number of cannon may be
cast there, that proper artificers be forthwith employed in the work an agree-
ment being first made with governor Trumbull and Mr. Livingston for that
purpose:
That the º be directed to procure provisions sufficient for
5000 men, during eight months, to be sent to Albany, and from thence to
Fort-Anne, and the like quantity to remain in Albany, and be removed else-
where, as occasion may require ; and that the connissary-general be directed
to send to Albany, a sufficient quantity of salt to cure the said provisions:
That general Schuyler be informed of the cannon ordered from Salisbury to
Ticonderoga, and directed to have carriages provided for them:
Itesolved, That the committee have leave to sit again.
A letter, of the 19th, from gen. Schuyler at Saratoga, was read.
Resolved, That the commissary-general be empowered to import such quan-
tities of rice from the southern states, as he shall think necessary for the use
of the army.
. The medical committee, to whom Dr. Shippen's letter was referred, brought
in a report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That Dr. Morgan take care of such sick and wounded of the
army. of the United States, as are on the east side of Hudson's river, and that
Dr. Shippen take care of such sick and wounded as are on the west side of
Hudson's river; and that they both be directed to use the utmost diligence in
superintending the surgeons and mates of the army, so that the sick and wound-
ed may be effectually provided with everything necessary for their recovery.
Resolved, That 100,000 dollars be advanced to the delegates of South-
Carolina; the said state to be accountable.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, JVovember 29, 1776.
A letter, from S. Purviance, and one from J. Connolly, and a petition from
J. Sullivan, were read:
Ordered, That the petition from J. Sullivan be referred to a committee of
three, and that they be directed to enquire, minutely, into the facts relative
564 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
to the capitulations entered into by major Sherbourne and major Butterfield, in
Canada; that they be empowered to send for persons and papers, and to ex-
amine witnesses on oath, and that they report to Congress :
The members chosen, Mr. Chase, Mr. Harrison, and Mr. Wythe.
Ordered, That Mr. Mease supply the sick soldiers, in the house of employ-
ment in Philadelphia, each, with one shirt.
A petition from major John Lamb was read: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the general be directed to include major Lamb in the next
exchange of prisoners.
The committee on the affairs of the northern army, brought in a farther re-
port, which was taken into consideration: Whereupon,
Resolved, That the medical committee be directed to provide sufficient
quantities of antiscorbutics for the use of the hospitals in the northern army :
That the hospital at Fort-George be continued for the reception of soldiers
laboring with contagious diseases, and that there be a general hospital erect-
ed on Mount-Independence :
That a suitable spot of ground for a garden be enclosed in the neighborhood
of the general hospital, to supply the army with vegetables; and that laborers
be hired to cultivate it, under the direction of an overseer, to be appointed by
the general or commanding officer:
That the general, or commanding officer, in each of the armies, cause strict
enquiry to be made into the conduct of the directors of the hospitals, and their
surgeons, officers, and servants, and of the regimental surgeons, that if there
has been any just ground of complaint in those departments, the offenders
may be punished :
hat the colonel or commanding officer of every regiment, make frequent
enquiry into the health of the men under his command, and report the state
thereof, with any negligence, mal-practice, or other misconduct of the sur-
geons or others, to the general, and to Congress, delivering copies of such re-
ports to all persons therein accused : •
That the general, or commander in chief of the northern army, direct all the
batteaux on lakes Champlain and George to be immediately repaired :
That 100 batteaux be built at Schenectady, so as to be ready for use in Fe-
bruary or March next, at farthest; and, for this purpose, that boards, pitch,
oakum, and other necessary materials, be collected, and artificers employed,
by the general or commanding officer :
Resolved, That the committee have leave to sit again.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To P. E. du Simitiere, for designing, making, and drawing a medal for ge-
neral Washington, 32 dollars:
To John Dunlap, for printing sundry resolves of Congress, commissions,
proclamations, &c. 654.66 dollars:
To John Bates, for camp-kettles delivered to Robert Towers, commissary,
80 dollars:
To Joseph Greenvold, for porterage of powder, to the magazine, 37.45
dollars : *
To James, Anderson, for ferriage of Virginia troops, wagons, and militia,
over Susquehanna, 27.18 dollars:
d To the estate of captain Spring, for storage of continental powder, 111.38
ollars: *
To the following prisoners from Canada, and to be paid to Mr. Ross, the
sum of 229.77 .. viz. º
To captain Thomson, expenses of himself and baggage from Albany to
Trenton, 11.55 dollars, and his allowance from 26th April to 28th November,
inclusive, 31 weeks, at 2 dollars a week, 62 dollars:
To Alexander M'Culloch, expenses of himself and baggage from Albany to
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 565.
– 4.
Trenton, 10.35 dollars, and his allowance from 26th April to 28th November,
inclusive, 31 weeks, at 2 dollars a week, 62 dollars: And,
To William Goodwin, his expenses of family and baggage, from Albany to
Burlington, 14.27 dollars, and his allowance from 27th March to 27th Novem-
ber, inclusive, 35 weeks, at 2 dollars, 70 dollars:
To John House, for his account of ferriage of troops, wagons, and horses
over the river Potomac, 30.30 dollars:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Itesolved, That the secret committee be directed to provide, as soon as may
be, arms and equipage for 3000 horse.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to consider and report a
proper method for establishing and training cavalry in this continent:
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Paine, Mr. Middleton, Mr. Nel-
son, and Mr. Floyd.
A petition from Alexander Mercer was read, and referred to the board of
treasury.
The committee appointed to confer with the"managers of the lottery, brought
in a report, which was taken into consideration :
Whereupon, Resolved, That the prizes only be drawn :
That the managers be authorized to employ as many clerks to assist in num-
bering the tickets, as may be necessary for expediting the business:
That two presses be employed for printing the tickets:
Ordered, That the remainder of the report be re-committed.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for appointing the officers of the regi-
ment of artillery ordered to be raised in Virginia.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, JW ovember 30, 1776.
A letter, of the 27th, from general Washington, with a list of the prisoners
taken by the enemy during the campaign of 1776; and one, of the same date,
from the council of safety of New-York, were read:
Ordered, That the same be referred to the board of war, and that they con-
fer with colonel Miles, who is come from New-York on his parole, to expedite
the exchange of prisoners.
Resolved, That 1000 dollars be advanced to Robert Erwin, wagon-master
general, for the public service; he to be accountable.
Resolved, That the council of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to have
eight carriages for field pieces got ready, with all possible expedition, at the ex-
pense of the continent, to be delivered as fast as made, to the order of the
board of war.
The commissioners for Indian affairs, in the middle department, having
transmitted to Congress the minutes of their proceedings,
mºred That the same be referred to the standing committee for Indian
aſſall'S. *
... The committee appointed to confer with the managers of the lottery, brought
in a farther report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon.
. Resolved, That the gratuity to the managers of the lottery, for their trouble
in the conduct of that business, be left to the future judgment of Congress:
. That the managers be authorized to appoint agents for the sale of the tickets
in the several states, and offer them one-tenth per cent, on the tickets or bil-
lets by each respectively sold:
... That the public be at the risk of conveying the tickets or billets to the agents
in the different states:
...That the agents pay the money received by them for the sale of tickets or
billets to the commissioners of the loan-office of the state where they are sold,
566 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
taking receipts therefor, and transmit them to the managers of the lottery at
Philadelphia.
Resolved, That the state of New-York be empowered to raise another bat-
talion on the continental establishment:
That the convention or council of safety of New-York be empowered to
appoint an aid-major to each of the battalions raised by that state, the pay or
expense of which to be borne by that state.
Agreeable to the order of the day, Congress proceeded to the election of
officers for the artillery battalion, ordered to be raised in Virginia; and, the
ballots being taken, the following were elected :
Charles Harrison, esq. colonel ; Edward Carrington, esq. lieutenant-colonel;
Christiern Holmer, major; Samuel Denny, William Pierce, Nathaniel Burwell,
Buller Clairborne, Joseph Scot, William Murray, Spotswood Dandridge, Mat-
thew Smith, Sir John Pettus, and William Waters, captains.
Resolved, That the governor and council of Virginia be requested to recom-
mend proper persons for subaltern officers.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to purchase, for the public ser-
vice, six wagons, with four horses and proper harness to each wagon, and to
employ suitable drivers.
An address from Nicholas Biddle, John Barry, Thomas Read, Charles Alex-
ander, and John Nicholson, was laid before Congress, and read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the marine committee, who are directed to
pursue such measures as they shall think proper in consequence thereof.
The assembly of Pennsylvania having, by Mr. Morris, informed Congress,
that they have appointed a committee of their body to confer with a committee
of Congress, on the requisition of Congress, to call forth immediately the as-
sociators of the city and liberties of Philadelphia, and of the counties of Phila-
º Bucks, Chester, and Northampton:
rdered, That the board of war confer with the committee of the assembly
of Pennsylvania on this subject, and agree on such measures as shall be deemed
most for the public service.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To Steiner & Cist, for paper and printing minutes of Congress, &c. and
trouble and expenses in attending the making the paper for the loan-office notes,
130 15 dollars.
To lieutenant Peacock, a prisoner of the 7th regiment, for his allowance
from 20th December, 1775, to the 28th November, 1776, 48 weeks, at 2 dol-
lars, 96 dollars:
To Dr. William Currie, for his bill of medicines and provisions to sick sol-
diers of colonel Scott’s and colonel Lawson’s Virginia regiments, 67 37 dollars:
That there should be advanced to major John ilamb, for the payment of the
men of his artillery-company, 2000 dollars; he to be accountable:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That the committee of intelligence be directed and empowered to
establish expresses, to go daily to and from head-quarters.
Resolved, That when any resolutions are passed which respect the United
States, or any of them, or the armies of the said states, they be sent, by ex;
press, if the regular post is interrupted or not ready, provided the president
shall judge it necessary.
A petition from John Noble Taylor, was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of war.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SUNDAY, December, 1, 1776.
Congress, on a summons, met this day, when two letters, of the 30th, from
general Washington, at Brunswick, were read; Whereupon,
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 567.
|
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to order the German battalion
to march immediately to join general Washington, and that the said board use
every measure in their power to expedite their march with all possible despatch:
Resolved, That the council of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to take
effectual measures for supplying guards for the public stores, &c. in the room.
of the German battalion :
That the secret committee be directed to appoint one or more trusty per-
sons, to proceed immediately to the eastern states, and see that the clothing
and stores, which have been ordered to be purchased for the army, be collected
and forwarded to the army, with all possible despatch ; and that the said per-
son, or persons, have power to purchase, or cause to be purchased, such neces-
sary clothing as can be procured in those states, and to have it forwarded to
the army :
That general Washington be informed, he has the full approbation of Con-
gress to order the troops, on the east side of Hudson’s river, over to the west
side of that river, whenever he shall think it conducive to the public service so
to do : *
That general Washington be directed to order the clothes, which have been,
or shall be sent to head-quarters, or to any of the camps, to be distributed,
first among such of the soldiers as stand most in need of them :
That Mr. J. Mease be directed to purchase all the hats and caps he can
procure, proper for soldiers, and to employ as great a number of taylors as
possible in making up clothes for soldiers; and forward those articles, from
time to time, as fast as ready, to general Washington:
That the medical committee, be directed to take such steps, as they shall
judge proper, for the accommodation of the sick of the army.
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
MONDAY, December 2, 1776.
Resolved, That 800 dollars be advanced to colonel L. Cadwallader, for the
use of the men belonging to his battalion; he to be accountable :
That 800 dollars be advanced captain Doyle, for the use of his independent
company; he to be accountable :
º 500 dollars be advanced to Robert Jewell, for which he is to be account-
al)16} :
That 5333.30 dollars be advanced to the commissioners for Indian affairs in
the middle department.
A letter, of the 1st, from general Washington, was read :
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of war, and that they communicate
the contents to the council of safety of Pennsylvania, and take such measures,
in consequence thereof, as they shall judge proper.
Captain Montgomery having offered his service, with that of his crew, as an
*. company,
Resolved, That they be taken into the service of the continent for two months,
unless sooner discharged.
Resolved, That he, the said James Montgomery, be appointed captain, that
Samuel Carson be appointed captain-lieutenant, and John Douglass, lieutenant,
of said company:
That Mr. J. Mease be directed to advance one month's pay to captain Mont-
gomery’s men, upon their inlisting, and that a like advance be made to the
other companies of artillery:
That the marine committee be empowered to advance 20 dollars to each
seaman who will enter to serve on board the Randolph, captain Biddle, the
same to be deducted out of their share of the prize-money.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to purchase, immediately, ten
or twelve covered wagons for the artillery : *
588 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
That the board of war give orders for removing by water to Christiana-
bridge, the 2,000 barrels of beef, now under the care . commissary Wharton.
Resolved, That the council of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to send
expresses immediately to the counties that have been desired to send forth their
associators, urging them forthwith to march, in order to oppose the hasty ad-
vances of the enemy.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the governor and council of Virginia,
to take the most effectual measures for purchasing and collecting, for continen-
tal use, all the copper and other materials fit for casting brass field-artillery,
that can be got in that state, and that Congress will defray the cost and expense
of the same. -
Resolved, That 100 dollars be advanced to the delegates of Virginia, for the
use of the deputy pay-master general in that state.
A letter, of the 1st, from general Washington, was read.
Mr. Read, a delegate from Delaware state, attended, and produced the cre-
º of the appointment of delegates from that state, which were read as
ollows: -
“In Council, Nov. 8, 1776. Whereas George Read. John Dickinson, and
John Evans, esqrs, have been chosen by joint ballot of both houses of assembl y
to represent the Delaware state in the Continental Congress: Resolved, That
they, or any one or more of them, are hereby fully authorized and empowered,
for and in behalf of this state, to concert, agree to, and execute every measure,
which they or he, together with a majority of the Continental Congress, shall
judge necessary, for the defence, security, interest, and welfare of this state in
particular, and of America in general ; with power to adjourn to such times
and places as shall appear most conducive to the public safety and advantage.
Sent for concurrence. ”
“In assembly, November 9, 1776. Read and concurred in:
“JOHN M'KINLEY, Speaker.
“A true copy:
“Si,AroR CLAy, Clerk of the Council.”
Resolved, That it be recommended to the council of safety of Pennsylvania
to send immediately one of their gallies along the Jersey shore, between this
and Trenton, to bring over all the river craft, vessels, and boats from the Jersey
to the Pennsylvania side of Delaware, in order to prevent their becoming ser-
viceable to the enemy, in their attempts to cross the said river :
That it be earnestly recommended to the council of safety of Pennsylvania,
to order the battalions of this city immediately to march and join general
Washington: º
That the said council of safety be requested to furnish the wagon-master
general with one thousand wagons for the use of the army; and, as in the pre-
sent emergency of public affairs, such a supply of wagons is absolutely neces-
sary, that it be recommended to the said council of safety to impress the
wagons, if they cannot be otherwise speedily procured.
Adjourned to six o'clock.
Eope M DIE, P. M.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to receive from Mr. Hyman Levy
the goods in his hands purchased for the state of New-York, paying him the
balance due for the said goods, together with those he has now º to general
Washington, taking especial care that they be sent in so safe and secure a
manner as to avoid any danger of falling into the hands of the enemy.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, December 3, 1776.
A letter, of the 2d, from general Washington; one, of the same date, from
adjutant-general Reed, and one from J. Mease, were read:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 569
-i-
Resolved, That 50,000 dollars be advanced to Mr. J. Mease, for the public
service; he to be accountable:
That 2000 dollars be advanced to lieutenant-colonel Antil, for the purpose of
récruiting his regiment; he to be accountable :
That 14,000 dollars be advanced to major Charles Symes, for the use of the
12th Virginia battalion ; he to be accountable.
Mr. Čſarke, a delegate from the state of New-Jersey, attended, and pro-
duced the credentials of the appointment of delegates from that state, which
were read as follows:
“At a joint meeting of the council and assembly of the state of New-Jersey,
held at Burlington, on the 30th day of November, 1776, the honorable Na-
thaniel Scudder in the chair; the joint meeting proceeded by ballot to the
election of five delegates to represent this state in Congress, to serve for one
year, unless a new appointment should be made before the expiration of that
time ; and the following persons were duly elected, viz. The honorable Ri-
chard Stockton, Jonathan Dickinson Sergeant, esq. Dr. John Witherspoon,
Abraham Clarke, esq. Jonathan Elmer, esq. o
“Resolved, That any one or more of the said delegates, who shall attend in
Congress, be fully empowered to represent, and vote in behalf of this state.
That the said delegates, or such of them as have not already taken the oaths
of abjuration and allegiance mentioned in the act of assembly lately passed,
entitled ‘An act for the security of the government of New-Jersey,” do take
the said oaths before they take their seats.
“Signed by order of the council and assembly of the state of New-Jersey :
“CHARLES PETTIT, Secretary.”
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to have the prisoners, now at
Bristol, removed from thence back into the country.
Resolved, That Mrs. Chamier be permitted to go to her husband at New-
York; and that Mrs. Lewis, at Flushing, on Long-lsland, be required in ex-
change.
Resolved, That Mr. Mease be empowered and directed to settle with and
pay the militia of the Maryland flying-camp. e º º
That the commissary of provisions in Philadelphia supply with rations, in
lieu of mileage, such of the Maryland troops as choose to go home : o
That such of the non-commissioned officers and soldiers of the said troops
as will inlist for three years, be immediately clothed; and that Mr. Mease
be directed to detain as many of the clothes, now in his hands, as will be ne-
cessary for that purpose :
That each of the non-commissioned officers and soldiers of the Maryland
militia, who will not inlist for three years, but will engage to march to the im-
mediate reinforcement of general Washington, and remain under his com:
mand One month, be supplied by Mr. Mease with a shirt, a pair of shoes, and
a pair of stockings, on paying for the same:
That such of the militia as shall engage to serve to the 10th of March next,
unless sooner discharged by Congress, be entitled to a pair of shoes and
stockings, and to the same rations and the same monthly pay with the other
troops on the continental establishment, to commence from the time of their
enrolment; and that one months’ pay be advanced to each volunteer, upon his
enrolment.
Pesolved, That to-morrow be assigned for giving the Indians in town an
audience; and that the committee on Indian affairs be directed to prepare a
proper speech to be delivered to them. wº
Resolved, That the officers of the Maryland troops be requested immediate-
ly to parade those troops, and to use their utmost influence to persuade their
adoption of the terms proposed by Congress.
rººf That general Washington be directed, in case he has not entered
ol. I. 72
570 - JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
into a negotiation with general Howe, for exchanging governor Franklin for
general Thomson, to suspend the execution of that matter till farther orders.
A petition from William Dod was read, praying for leave to visit his bro-
ther, who is confined in prison:
Resolved, That the petitioner have leave to visit and converse with his bro-
ther in presence of the gaoler.
Resolved, That Thursday next be assigned for taking into consideration the
state of the Treasury.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, December 4, 1776.
A letter, of the 3d, from general Washington, was read.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the council of safety of Pennsylvania,
to detain from marching with the militia, the printers engaged in printing cer-
tificates for the continental loan-offices, and to direct them to continue exe-
cuting the business in which they are employed.
The committee of treasury reported, that they have had under consideration
the accounts of John Harvie, J . Montgomery, and Jasper Yates, esqrs. com-
missioners for Indian affairs in the middle department; that the said commis-
sioners have produced accounts of the expenditure of 13,464.7 dollars, for the
charges and expenses of the late treaty, held with the Indians, at Pittsburg,
and for their allowance for their time and expenses attending the said treaty;
that in this account, are included the expense of goods purchased by Mr. Mor-
gan for private presents; for expenses and pay to Mr. Wilson, Mr. Long, and
Mr. Girty on different messages; for kettles, rations, and linen, supplied the
continental battalion at Kittanning; for expenses of Mr. Morgan coming to
Philadelphia, and going to New-York with two Indian chiefs, and returning
with them to Pittsburg; his going to the Indian towns to invite them to a treaty;
for sundry sums paid to the militia officers, and for the several accounts due
from the department to this time, except the militia accounts yet unsettled,
and the salaries due to Mr. Morgan and the former agent, and also 800.2 dol-
lars due to sundry persons before their appointment, whose accounts were
settled by a committee of Congress for Indian affairs. The balance due to
George Morgan, esq. is 207.74 dollars, first deducting 400 dollars paid him by
Congress, 21st September last, for which he is debited :
That they credit the sums of 3000 dollars, received of Congress, in August,
and 5333.30 dollars the 2d instant, and also 5.30 dollars for the freight of a
still to Redstone, and two sums, amounting to 67.45 dollars, which are twice
charged in the accounts:
That the balance due to the commissioners is 5057.82 dollars:
Ordered, That the said sum be paid. 't
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, December 5, 1776.
A letter, of the 4th, from general Washington, enclosing a copy of a letter
from major Clark, was read.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to pay to each captain of the Mary-
land troops of the flying-camp, who cannot produce pay-rolls, such a sum as
they think will be equal to the arrears due to their respective companies; tak-
ing a receipt from the respective captains for the money advanced.
Resolved, That two months’ pay be advanced to M. Romand de Lisle, and to
M. Kosciuszko.
The Indians being introduced, delivered a speech; and Saturday next was
appointed to return them an answer.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 57.1
Resolved, That it be earnestly recommended to the council of safety of Penn-
sylvania, to procure the use .# the Pennsylvania hospital, for the purpose of
accommodating the sick belonging to the continental º: s
IResolved, That the i. committee be empowered to procure suitable
ersons to take care of the sick, and to remove them to such convenient places
in the country, as they shall think proper. \ - º
Some inhabitants of New-Jersey being sent under guard to Philadelphia,
charged with the crime of inlisting men for general Howe, and some of inlist-
ing themselves in the service of the enemy, tº º º
Resolved, That they be sent under guard to Frederick, in Maryland, there
to be safely confined ; and that, until they can be sent away, they be kept con-
fined in the state-prison in Philadelphia.
Resolved, That capt. Ottendorf be directed to raise an independent corps,
consisting of 150 men, serjeants and corporals included:
That the same be divided into three companies; the first company to con-
sist of 60 men, light-infantry, commanded by one captain and two lieutenants;
the other two companies of hunters, of 45 men each, to be commanded each
by a captain and 2 lieutenants:
That captain Ottendorf have the rank of major, be captain of the light-in-
fantry company, and command the whole. ,
That an adjutant be appointed for this corps, who s to act as quarter-master
and pay-master, with the rank of lieutenant, and pay of other adjutants.
Ordered, That the board of war write to the general, and desire him to send
Isaac Corren, of the artillery, to Philadelphia.
Resolved, That 150 dollars oe advanced to Gunning Bedford, muster-mas-
ter general; he to be accountable.
Resolved, That the time for drawing the lottery be altered to the 10th of
April.
'Fºoled, That Congress will, to-morrow, previous to any other business,
resolve itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consideration the state
of the treasury, the ways and means of raising supplies for the ensuing year,
and supporting the credit of the continental currency.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, December 6, 1776.
A letter, of the 5th, from general Washington, and one, of the 27th of Novem-
ber, from General Gates, at Albany, with a paper enclosed, sent from the
eommanding officer at St. John’s, were read. -
Agreeable to the order of the day, Congress resolved itself into a committee
of the whole, to take into consideration the state of the treasury, the ways
and means of raising supplies for the ensuing year, and supporting the credit
of the continental currency; and, after some time, the president resumed the
chair, and Mr. Nelson reported, that the committee have had under considera-
tion the matters to them referred, and have come to sundry resolutions there-
on; but not having perfected the business, desired him to move for leave to
sit again.
Resolved, That Congress will, to-morrow, resolve itself into a committee of
the whole, to take into consideration the state of the treasury, the ways and
means of raising supplies for the ensuing year, and supporting the credit of the
continental currency.
Resolved, That 50,000 dollars be advanced to Mr. J. Mease for the public
service; he to be accountable.
Upon representation made by Daniel and Samuel Hughes, that Melchior
Salady, a private soldier in captain Farmer’s company of colonel Miles’s bat-
talion, would be very serviceable to them in executing their contract for mak-
ign cannon for Congress:
572, JoURNALs of congress, 1776.
Resolved, That Melchior Salady be discharged, by the proper officer, from
the company, provided he enter into the service of the said Hughes.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, December 7, 1776.
A letter, of the 6th, from general Washington, at Trenton, and one, of the
21st to 25th November, from general Schuyler, at Saratoga, with sundry pa-
pers enclosed, were read:
Ordered, That they be referred to the board of war.
Itesolved, That the board of war be empowered and directed to exchange
such of the Canadians as they shall think proper.
Ordered, That the president write to the four New-England governments,
and request them to use their utmost influence in raising their respective quo-
tas of troops, and to hasten their march, with all possible diligence, to the
places, appointed for their rendezvous, by general Schuyler.
Itesolved, That 100,000 dollars be advanced to the council of safety of Penn-
sylvania, to be applied towards furnishing the several officers with bounty-
money for inlisting men on the new establishment; the said council to be ac-
countable.
Resolved, That captain Biddle be empowered to inlist into the continental
service, such of the sailors in prison as he shall think proper.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due, and to be paid to the
order of Allen M*Donald, sen. Allen M*Donald, jun. Alexander M*Donald,
Rennel M’Donald, and Archibald M-Donald, hostages sent by general Schuy-
ler to Reading, for the allowance due to themselves and their three servants,
from the 25th of September to the 10th of December, inclusive, 143 dollars:
That there should be advanced to Thomas Smith, for supplies to the troops
of the 5th and 6th Virginia regiments, left sick at Wilmington, the sum of
677.25 dollars:
That there is due to lieutenant-colonel Jacob Boyer, for furnishing his bat-
talion of militia with 7495 rations of provisions, on their march from Berks
county to the camp in New-Jersey, 739.45 dollars:
To Thomas Edwards, for victualling the second battalion of militia, of Lan-
caster county, commanded by col. Curtis Grubb, on their march to Bergen, in
New-Jersey, and for the hire of two baggage-wagons, 1319.61 dollars, to be
paid to Philip Marsteller:
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
Resolved, That 1000 dollars be advanced to the committee for procuring can-
non for the public service; the said committee to account for the expenditure.
Resolved, That for the more speedy and effectual discharge of business, the
following rules be invariably observed: *
That Congress be opened every morning atten o’clock, Sundays excepted:
That Mr. President take the chair precisely at that time.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the Indians were introduced, and the fol-
lowing speech was delivered to them :
Brothers of the Siac-Mations, Delawares and Shawanese,
We, the delegates of the thirteen United States of America, are extremely
pleased to see you. We take you by the hand, and bid you welcome to our
great council-fire.
Brothers,
You say that God Almighty has been pleased to bring us together. You say
well. He superintends and governs men and their actions. He now sees us.
He judges of the sincerity of our hearts, and will punish those who deceive.
Brothers, Sachems and Warriors,
You have heard what our commissioners have said to you at Pittsburg.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 573
by our directions. You have listened to their arguments; and your own
reason will suggest, that the conduct they have recommended to you, must be
productive of your happiness and welfare. We think that you must be fully
convinced that your safety, as nations, depends on preserving peace and friend-
ship with the white people of this island.
W. are sorry to hear of the death of your great men, and are well pleased
that our commissioners have wiped the tears from your eyes, and covered the
graves of our departed friends.
Our hearts are good towards all the Indians in the woods, who have friend-
ly disposition towards us.
We love peace, and wish that the chain of friendship between us and you
...} contract no rust. On our part, we will do every thing to keep it bright
and strong.
But should we be attacked by any tribe of Indians in the woods, we hope to
convince them that we can repel their attempts with ease. Friendship, how-
ever, with you, is what we earnestly desire; our commissioners have told you
so, and they have not deceived you.
We now inform you, that we wish to sit down with you under the same tree
of peace; to water its roots and cherish its growth, so that it may shelter us
and you, and our and your children.
Brothers,
We have prepared some presents for you, which our commissioners will de-
liver before your departure.
The lndians, having returned thanks for the speech delivered, informed Con-
gress that they had something to say on Monday next, and withdrew.
Resolved, That the council of safety of Pennsylvania be desired to suspend
the farther execution of the request made to them on the 2d instant, to procure
one thousand wagons: *
That the wagons procured, in consequence of the said request, be sent to
the quarter-master general.
Resolved, That Mr. Mease be directed to return to Mr. Levy, the goods he
had from him, and receive back the money advanced on that account: the said
goods being sent for by the state of New-York, on whose account, and by
whose order, they were purchased.
The committee of treasury reported, that there is due,
To brigadier-general Thompson, for his pay for the months of October and
November, 250 dollars :
To lieutenant Ross Currie, of the second battalion of Pennsylvania regular
forces, for the balance of his pay from March to November, inclusive, 90 dollars:
To Samuel M*Kinzie, surgeon to the 2d battalion of Pennsylvania regular
forces, for 4 months’ pay, at 33 dollars a month, 132 dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, December 9, 1776.
A letter, of the 8th, from gen. Washington; one, of the 22d November, from
gen; Ward, enclosing one of the 9th of the same month, from gen. Gates; one
of the 18th of the same month, from G. Morgan, at Pittsburg; and a petition
and remonstrance from the captains and subalterns of col. Mackay’s battalion;
a letter, of the 17th November, from lieutenant-colonel Wilson, of the said
battalion; and a letter of the 22d November, from John Avery, at Boston,
were read :
Also, a letter of the 25th November, from colonel M. Hazen, was read, and
referred to the committee on the northern army.
Resolved, That another member be added to the said committee:
574 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
The member chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee.
Resolved, That the sum of 117 11 dollars be paid to colonel Haussegger, in
full of his account for boards, &c. bought for the public service, and for his ex-
enſses.
p Resolved, That 1000 dollars be advanced to major Ottendorff, for the pur-
pose of recruiting his companies; he to be accountable.
Resolved, That Houelman Arnold be appointed a lieutenant of the company
commanded by major Ottendorf:
That 2000 dollars be advanced to the delegates of New-Jersey, for the pub-
lic service; they to be accountable:
That 50,000 dollars be advanced to Mr. J. Mease, for the public service; he
to be accountable.
Resolved, That Mr. Risberg, the assistant quarter-master in Philadelphia,
be directed to send by water to Christiana bridge, the military stores sent from
the army, and that they be safely lodged there till farther orders.
Resolved, That 5000 dollars be advanced to Mr. Carpenter Wharton for the
public service; he to be accountable.
Resolved, That the council of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to give
the continental officers, and all others, employed in removing the public stores
from Philadelphia, whether by land or water, all the assistance in their power.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare an address
to the inhabitants; of America, and a recommendation to the several states, to
appoint a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer:
The members chosen, Mr. Witherspoon, Mr. R. H. Lee, and Mr. Adams.
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be empowered and directed to settle and pay
the arrears due to colonel Hay’s battalion of the flying-camp.
Resolved, That Thomas De Naif be appointed a lieutenant of artillery un-
der M. Romand de Lisle.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to enquire into the state
of the prisoners sent from New-Jersey.,
The members chosen, Mr. Witherspoon, Mr. Clarke, and Mr. F. L. Lee.
Whereas, in consequence of many complaints that engrossers had distressed
the public, by raising salt to an exorbitant price, the council of safety of Penn-
sylvania, with the approbation of Congress, took the management of the affair
into their hands, and have endeavoured, by as just and equal a distribution as
possible of the salt imported from time to time, to supply the different parts
of the country; yet, it is found upon trial, either from the artful conduct of
interested persons not discovered, or from the impossibility of the thing itself,
that the remedy has been ineffectual ; and, on the contrary, salt continues
scarcer and dearer in this port, than when no regulations have been tried :
Therefore,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the council of safety of Pennsylvania,
to take off all restraint upon the sale of salt; and give public notice, that it
shall be lawful for any person to import and sell it, in such manner, and at such
prices, as shall suit voluntary purchasers.
Resolved, That 200 dollars be advanced to Mr. Govett, assistant to the au-
ditor-general ; he to be accountable.
Resolved, That in case this Congress shall be under the necessity of remov-
ing from Philadelphia, it shall be adjourned to Baltimore.
hereas, general Washington hath repeatedly applied, and hath yesterday
renewed, his application, for an immediate reinforcement for the defence of
Philadelphia, and the state of Pennsylvania;
Resolved, That the council of safety of Pennsylvania be requested, this day,
to send expresses, that can be relied on, to the several counties, earnestly re-
questing that they march what troops they can collect, armed and provided in
the best manner possible, to the army under the command of general Wash-
ington.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 575
Resolved, That Mr. J. Mease be directed to furnish captain Henderson’s
company, of the 11th Pennsylvania battalion, with blankets and stockings.
Resolved, That expresses be immediately sent to the committees of the
counties of Coecil, Baltimore, Hartford, and Frederick, in Maryland, request-
ing that they apply, without delay, to the militia of their respective counties,
and send forward, immediately, for the defence of the city of Philadelphia,
and the reinforcement of general Washington’s army, as many troops as pos-
sible, informing the said committees that some assistance, in the way of arms,
may be furnished here, to such as have no arms to bring with them :
That an express be sent to the council of safety of Delaware, requesting them
to send forward, immediately, for the purpose aforesaid, as many troops as pos-
sible, giving them the like information with respect to arms.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to take care of the arms belong-
ing to the continent, and have them properly secured.
Resolved, That William Chambers be appointed captain, Alexander Wilson,
first lieutenant, and Adam Hoops, second lieutenant, in the 3d battalion of the
regiment commanded by colonel M. Hazen.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, December 10, 1776.
A letter, of the 8th, from general Lee, at Morristown; one, of the 9th, from
general Washington, with a letter, of the 6th, from general Heath, were read.
Resolved, That the prisoners sent from the state of New-Jersey by general
Washington, and ordered to Fredericktown, in Maryland, be conveyed there
by captain Mountjoy Baily, with a guard of 18 soldiers:
That the said guard be furnished with arms, cartridges, knapsacks, and blan-
kets:
That 100 dollars be advanced to the committee of the middle district of Fre-
derick county, to defray the charges of conveying the prisoners there, and the
expense of furnishing rations to the prisoners and the guard ; the said commit-
tee to be accountable.
Resolved, That general Mifflin be directed to repair immediately to the
neighboring counties, and, by all the means in his power, rouse and bring them
in, to the defence of Philadelphia.
As the Congress deem it of great importance to the general good and safety,
that general Mifflin should make a progress through the several counties of the
state of Pennsylvania, to rouse the freemen thereof, to the immediate defence
of this city and county, *
Resolved, That the assembly be requested to appoint a committee of their
body to make the said tour with general Mifflin, in order to assist him in this
good and necessary work.
Resolved, That the president return to Congress the 25,000 dollars received
for the use of the marine committee.
Resolved, That major general Putnam be directed to have the several re-
cruits, and other continental troops in Philadelphia, immediately paraded, and
that he proceed, without delay, to make the proper defences for the protection
and security of this city:
That the council of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to give major gene-
ral Putnam all the assistance in their power, for the execution of the above
necessary business, by calling forth the inhabitants, and by any other means
in their judgment proper.
Resolved, That 2,000 dollars be advanced to the delegates of Georgia, for
the use of that state, which is to be accountable.
Resolved, That 135.30 dollars be paid to Robert Patton, for his services as
messenger, from the 15th of May to the 4th of December, instant.
576 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Y. —º-
The committee appointed to prepare an address to the inhabitants of Ame-
rica, brought in a draught, which was read; and, being debated by paragraphs,
was agreed to.
Ordered, That the said committee have it published and dispersed.
The committee of treasury reported, that there should be advanced to Mrs.
Stevenson the sum of two hundred dollars on account of her husband, James
Stevenson, one of the commissioners of accounts ; he to be accountable :
That there is due to John Montgomery and Jasper Yates, commissioners of
Indian affairs in the middle º ment, for their account of debts due to sun-
dry persons on the visit of the Indian chiefs from Pittsburg to Congress,
1178.24 dollars:
To the rev. Mr. Fowler, Indian missionary, being a balance due to him for
his services at the treaty with the Indians at Pittsburg, 36 dollars:
To John Gibson, esq. for eight months’ house-rent for the treasury office, as
auditor general, to the 9th instant, wood for the use of the office, &c. &c. the
sum of 369.61 dollars :
To St. Luke la Corn, captain Frazer, and major Campbell, for the allow-
ance for themselves and three servants, from 24th September to 3d December,
90 dollars; the same to be paid to col. Donald Campbell ;
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
IResolved, That the president write to general Washington, and desire him
to send a party to watch the roads leading from New-Jersey to Philadelphia,
above Trenton, and give Congress the earliest notice of the enemy’s motions.
Resolved, That 2,000 dollars be advanced to lieutenant-colonel Antil, for
the unrºose of recruiting the battalion commanded by colonel Moses Hazen;
he to be accountable.
Resowed, I hat two of the continental battalions, now raising in Connecti-
cut, be stationed for the defence of the said state in such parts thereof as go-
vernor Trumbull shall judge most conducive to that purpose, till Congress
shall order otherwise.
Resolved, That the treasurer, upon the order of the government of Connec-
ticut, pay out of the first moneys which shall be received into the loan office in
that state, 40,000 dollars ; the said state to be accountable for the expenditure
thereof.
Resolved, That Antoine Seelim be appointed a captain of a rifle company in
the corps commanded by major Ottendorf.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
WEDNESDAY, December 11, 1776.
The committee appointed to prepare a resolution for appointing a day of
fasting and humiliation, brought in a report, which was read and agreed to, as
follows:
Whereas, the war in which the United States are engaged with Great-Britain,
has not only been prolonged, but is likely to be carried to the greatest extrem-
ity; and whereas, it becomes all public bodies, as well as private persons, to
reverence the Providence of God, and look up to him as the supreme disposer
of all events, and the arbiter of the fate of nations; therefore,
Resolved, That it be recommended to all the United States, as soon as
possible, to º a day of solemn fasting and humiliation; to implore of
Almighty God the forgiveness of the many sins prevailing among all ranks,
and to beg the countenance and assistance of his Providence in the prosecu-
tion of the present just and necessary war.
The Congress do also, in the most earnest manner, recommend to all the
members of the United States, and particularly the officers civil and military
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 57.7
under them, the exercise of repentance and reformation; and further, require
of them the strict observation of the articles of war, and particularly, that
part of the said articles, which forbids profane swearing, and all immorality,
of which all such officers are desired to take notice.
It is left to each state to issue out proclamations fixing the day that appears
most proper within its bounds.
Ordered, That the above be published by the committee who brought in the
report.
* letter, of the 10th, from general Washington, at the falls of Delaware,
was read.
The committee appointed to examine the prisoners sent from New-Jersey,
reported, that they have performed that service, and find some considerable
distinction between them ; Whereupon,
Resolved, That the said committee be empowered to discharge from gaol
such of the said prisoners as do not appear to have been engaged in measures
against the United States of America; the said prisoners first signing a de-
claration, that they will not hereafter engage in such measures, nor give the
enemies of America aid, information, counsel, or assistance, in any way or
manner whatsoever; and that such as the said committee judge proper, give
security not to depart the city of Philadelphia without leave of Congress.
Resolved, That gen. Putnam be directed to order parties of active, spirited
men, with proper guides, to cross from Philadelphia to New-Jersey; and, under
the conduct of good officers, to act as harassing parties, and get the best in-
telligence of the motions and situation of the enemy, directing them to send
frequent daily intelligence through him to Congress, of the discoveries they
shall be able to make of the enemy’s movements and situation.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
THURSDAY, December 12, 1776.
A letter, of the 11th, from general Washington, was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of war. i.
Resolved, That 20,000 dollars be advanced to Gustavus Risberg, and charged
to the account of R. Dallam, esq.
That 50,000 dollars be advanced to the council of safety of Pennsylvania,
for the public service; the said council to be accountable:
That 5000 dollars be advanced to Dr. Nicholas Way, of Wilmington, for
the public service; he to be accountable. *
Resolved, That the two companies raised in the town of Westmoreland, be
ordered to join general Washington, with all possible expedition.
Resolved, That the continental apothecary be directed immediately to pack
up all the continental medicines, and send them to the quarter-master general:
That the quarter-master general be directed to remove all the medicines be-
longing to the continent in Philadelphia to a place of security:
That the frigate Randolph be put under the direction of the continental
general commanding in Philadelphia, to act as he shall direct, for the defence
of this city, and preventing the enemy from passing the Delaware.
Resolved. That 53.30 dollars be advanced to Mr. Sproat, clerk at the war
office, for his services; he to be accountable.
Mr. Walton, a delegate from Georgia, attended, and produced a letter from
the secretary of the convention of that state, informing him of his appointment,
with others, to represent that state for the ensuing year:
Itesolved, That he be admitted to a seat.
Besolved, That Elisha Sheldon be appointed lieutenant-colonel command-
ant of a regiment of cavalry on the continental establisment, with the rank
and w of º colonel of foot; and that general Washington be authorized to
Q}), k. 73
*
573 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776
w *
appoint the other officers to the said regiment; and that the colonel, with his
officers, proceed, without delay, to raise and discipline the said regiment; and
that they repair to and join the army under the command of general Washing-
ton, by companies, as soon as each company shall be complete:
That general Washington be empowered to advance to colonel Sheldon such
sums of money as may be necessary for the service.
Resolved, That the marine committee be directed to employ one or more
fast sailing vessels, to proceed immediately on a cruise off the Capes of Dela-
ware, and give notice to all ships and vessels inward bound of the state of this
5. in order that they may proceed to some other place or places of more
safety.
Resolved, That gen. Putnam be directed to send Dr. John Connolly under
guard to Baltimore, in Maryland, there to be confined.
Resolved, That the continental general commanding in Philadelphia, be di-
rected to defend the same to the utmost extremity, against the attemps of the
enemy to get possession of it; and that, for this end, he apply, from time to
time, to the council of safety of Pennsylvania for their aid and assistance.
Resolved, That Mr. R. Morris be empowered to borrow a sum, not exceed-
ing 10,000 dollars, for the use of the marine committee; and Congress will
indemnify him.
Resolved, That Timothy Dod be released from confinement.
Resolved, That the arms, ammunition, and clothing, in or near the city of
Philadelphia, be put under the direction of general Putnam; and that Mr. J.
Mease, and all other persons having continental stores in care, make imme-
diate return of the same to general Putnam, of the quantities and kinds of
each, and where the same are placed, that the general may take order therein,
either for safety or use, as he shall judge proper.
Resolved, That general Putnam be authorized to employ all the private
armed vessels in this harbour, for the defence and security of the city; and
that he take the most effectual measures for manning them, and putting
them in fit condition for the above purpose.
Major-general Putnam and Brigadier-general Mifflin being called to a con-
ference, and having, by strong arguments, urged the necessity of the Congress
retiring, it was, thereupon,
Ordered, That Mr. Wilson inform the assembly and council of Pennsyl-
vania of the proposed adjournment of Congress, and the place to which they
have resolved to adjourn; and acquaint them, that Congress will, at all times,
on their application, be ready to comply with their requisitions for the security
of this city and state against the common enemy.
Whereas the movements of the enemy have now rendered the neighborhood
of this city the seat of war, which will prevent that quiet and uninterrupted
attention to the public business, which should ever prevail in the great conti-
nental council :
Resolved, That this Congress be, for the present, adjourned to the town of
Baltimore, in the state of Maryland, to meet on the 20th instant, unless a suf-
ficient number to make a Congress shall be there sooner assembled ; and that,
until the Congress shall otherwise order, general Washington be possessed of
full power to order and direct all things relative to the department, and to the
operations of war; and that the several matters to this day referred, be post-
poned to the day to which Congress is adjourned.
BALTIMORE.
FRIDAY, December 20, 1776.
Congress met according to adjournment.
The delegates from Georgia produced the credentials of their appointment,
which were read as follows:
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 579
“IN Convention, SAVANNAI1, October 9, 1776.
“The convention proceeded to ballot for delegates to represent this state in
the Continental Congress for the year ensuing: when, on closing the poll, it
appeared that John Houston, Lyman Hall, Button Gwinnett, George Walton,
and Nathan Brownson, esqs. were duly elected, and declared so accordingly.
A true copy from the minutes,
EDWARD LANGWORTHY, Secretary.”
Sundry letters were laid before Congress and read, viz.
Three from general Washington, of the 12th, 13th, and 15th; one, of the
13th, from general Sullivan; four, from R. Morris, at Philadelphia, of the
13th, 14th, 16th, and 17th ; one, of the 8th, from general Wooster:
Ordered, That they be referred to a committee of four:
The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Harrison, and Mr.
S. Adams.
Resolved, That Benjamin Griffith be appointed to supply the prisoners from
North-Carolina with provisions, clothing, blankets, and fuel, sufficient to pro-
tect them from the inclemency of the weather; and that the apartments, in
which they are confined, be glazed, and in other respects secured from the
weather, so that the health of the prisoners may be preserved, and they expe-
rience that humanity which hath ever marked the conduct of this Congress to
its prisoners.
Resolved, That the president write to general Washington, and desire him
to send a flag to general Howe, and enquire in what manner general Lee, who
has been taken prisoner, is treated: and if he finds that he is not treated
agreeable to his rank and character, to send a remonstrance to general Howe
on the subject; and farther, to enquire of general Howe whether he will grant
permission to send general Lee such supplies of money as may be necessary
to support him, during his confinement, in a manner suitable to his rank in the
service of the United States:
That the president also write to Mr. R. Morris, and request him to send
100 half-johannes to general Washington for the use of general Lee.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, December 21, 1776.
A letter, of the 1st of October last, from S. Deane, esq. also, one of the 19th,
rom the committee of Frederick county, with sundry resolutions passed by
the said committee, respecting the marching of the militia of that county, to
join general Washington, were read.
Congress being informed that a number of prisoners were arrived at Balti-
more from Philadelphia:
Resolved, That the committee of Baltimore town be requested to secure, in
a convenient room, under a guard, the said prisoners, except the two Good-
richs, who are to be committed to gaol; that Mr. B. Griffith be empowered to
supply them with provisions and other things absolutely necessary for them,
until farther orders of Congress.
Resolved, That 6000 dollars be advanced to colonel Thomas Price, for the
purpose of recruiting his battalion; he to be accountable.
The committee of treasury reported, that they have had under consideration
the account of colonel W. Richardson for guarding the continental treasury
from Philadelphia to Baltimore; that the expense of the guard, with proven-
der for the teams, amounts to 378.83 dollars; that he credits 300 dollars re-
ceived by a warrant on the treasurer, and that there remains due to the said
colonel W. Richardson, 78.83 dollars:
Ordered, That the said account be paid.
580 Journals of CONGRESS, 1776.
A letter, of the 15th, from general Armstrong, at Philadelphia, was read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of war.
The committee to whom were referred the letters from general Washington
and Mr. Morris, brought in a report, which was taken into consideration :
Whereupon, *
Resolved, That proper magazines of provisions for the army be immediately
formed in or near Pennsylvania, and that Congress approve of the general’s
sending general Armstrong to fix upon the most secure and convenient places
for such magazines, to animate the militia, and facilitate the recruiting ser-
vice in Pennsylvania: º
That Congress approve of general Washington’s sending general Small-
wood to Maryland, to encourage and promote the speedy raising of the new
levies therein ; and that general Smallwood be requested to use his utmost
endeavors in executing that business:
That Robert Morris, George Clymer, and George Walton, esqrs, be a com-
mittee of Congress, with powers to execute such continental-business as may
be proper and necessary to be done at Philadelphia :
That 200,000 dollars be immediately sent to Mr. J. Mease, subject to the dis-
position of the said committee, for providing the militia going into service ; for
paying the soldiers from Ticonderoga, and for such other public uses as they
shall think proper: *
That if the above sum should be insufficient, the said committee have power
to call on the commissioner of the loan-office, in Pennsylvania, for such farther
sums, as the continental service there may demand :
That the said committee keep up a regular correspondence with Congress,
informing them, from time to time, of their proceedings herein :
That the resolve respecting the appointment of this committee, and its pow-
ers, be transmitted to Messieurs Morris, Clymer, and Walton, by Mr. T’resi-
dent; and that he inform the said gentlemen, that Congress approve their care
of the public business as signified in Mr. Morris's letters. Also, that Mr.
Morris be informed, that Congress highly approve his plan of fitting the con-
tinental frigates at Philadelphia regularly for sea, with all possible expedition :
That Mr. Secretary Peters be directed, by the board of war, to repair to
Baltimore as soon as possible.
Resolved, That 19,000 dollars be advanced to Mr. John Boyd, pay-master
of colonel Mackay’s battalion, for the use of the said battalion ; he to be ac-
countable.
Resolved, That two chaplains be appointed to Congress, and that Monday
next be assigned for electing them. ë º
Congress took into consideration the letter from the committee of Frederick
county: Whereupon, º
Resolved, That 18,000 dollars be transmitted to the committee of Frederick,
for the use of the militia of the counties of Frederick, Washington, and Mont-
gomery, who march to reinforce general Washington; the said committee to
be accountable : º
That the said committee transmit to general Washington a particular ac-
count of the money advanced to the militia. * ſº
Resolved, That officers of troops inlisted for three years, or during the
war, receive pay on the new establishment, from the time of their being ap-
pointed by their respective dates, in consequence of the resolution of Con-
gress passed the 16th of September last. . . . .
Resolved, That such alteration be made in the rations of the Virginia troops
as the governor and council of that state shall direct, provided the expense
does not exceed that of the ration established for the continental army.
Resolved, That 3000 dollars be advanced to colonel W. Richardson for the
purpose of recruiting his regiment; he to be accountable.
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 581
.**
*
Resolved, That Mr. Hooper be empowered to examine into the state of the
North-Carolina prisoners, and have such of them as are sick, removed to a
private house, and kept under guard ; and that he provide a physician to at-
tend them.
Resolved, That general Washington be directed to pay the militia that may
reinforce his army, in the same manner as his other troops are paid; and that,
on their discharge, one penny a mile be allowed in lieu of rations, to support
them on their march to their respective places of abode.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Monday.
MONDAY, December 23, 1776.
Agreeable to the order of the day, Congress elected the reverend Mr. P. Al-
lison, and the reverend Mr. W. White, chaplains.
Ordered, That Mr. Witherspoon, Mr. S. Adams, and Mr. Hooper, inform
the said gentlemen of their appointment, and desire their attendance.
Mr. Hooper having reported, that the present situation of the prisoners is
very disagreeable and dangerous to their health, on account of the prison being
much out of repair, it was, thereupon,
Resolved, That until the apartments in the jail of the town of Baltimore be
repaired, and put in such a condition as not to endanger the health of those who
may be confined in them, the prisoners from the state of North-Carolina be re-
moved from thence to different rooms in the court-house, or wherever else
they can be procured, and there safely locked up and secured; and that the
committee of inspection of the said town, be requested to direct proper apart-
ments for their reception, and from time to time, keep up a good and sufficient
guard over them ; and, in order to secure them more effectually, that the prison-
ers, agreeable to their own voluntary proposal, shall be upon their parole not to
make any attempts to escape from confinement, nor interfere in the present
war with Great-Britain, by carrying on any correspondence, conversation, or
otherwise, with the enemies of America; and that during their confinement,
Benjamin Griffith, who, by a late resolve of Congress, was directed to supply
the prisoners when confined in gaol, continue to supply and accommodate them
with necessaries for their support. f
Resolved, That Robert Patton be appointed door-keeper, and James Long,
messenger, to Congress.
Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for appointing skilful persons to be
sent to examine the Salisbury and Mr. Livingston’s founderies, agreeable to
the resolution of the 28th of November last.
Resolved, That Mr. John Boyd, the pay-master of colonel Mackay's bat-
talion, be empowered to receive from Mr. William Smith, at Hanover, such a
number of shoes as may be wanted for the use of the said battalion.
Resolved, That the assemblies, conventions, committees or councils of safe-
ty, and other persons that are or may be entrusted with money for the militia
reinforcing the armies of the United States, transmit the receipts of the of.
ficers receiving the same to the pay-master or deputy pay-master general of
the respective armies; who are hereby directed to make proper stoppages, and
give certificates of the delivery of such receipts, specifying therein, the names
of the persons signing them, the dates and sums mentioned in the same, and
the persons to whom the receipts were given; which certificates shall be re-
ceived by the commissioners of the treasury as sufficient vouchers for discharg-
ing the respective accounts from the sums expressed in the same.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
582 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
-w
TUESDAY, I)ecember 24, 1776.
A letter, of the 20th, from the council of safety of Pennsylvania; one, of
the 21st, from Mr. R. Morris; one, of the 10th, from general Schuyler, with
Sundry papers enclosed, were received and read:
Resolved, That the last be referred to the committee on the affairs of the
northern army.
Resolved, That two members be added to the said committee:
The members chosen, Mr. Heyward, and Mr. Whipple.
Resolved, That 200,000 dollars be advanced to the council of safety of
Pennsylvania, for the public service; the said council to be accountable.
Resolved, That Mr. Hillegas, the treasurer, be empowered to employ proper
persons to sign the bills which remain unsigned in the treasury, and that he re-
turn their names to Congress.
Resolved, That a letter be immediately written by Mr. President to the as-
semblies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay and Connecticut, informing
them, of the critical state of the fortress of Ticonderoga and the other posts
in that quarter; and the extreme danger of general Carlton’s possessing him-
self of that fortress as soon as Lake-Champlain shall be so frozen, as to be ca-
pable of bearing horses: that, by a letter from general Schuyler, Congress is
informed, that the troops, now occupying those posts, will not tarry after the
31st of this month; and, in the most pressing terms, urging the necessity of
hastening up troops, from their respective states, with the utmost despatch, in
the following proportions, viz. 2500 from Massachusetts-Bay, 1500 from Con-
necticut, and 500 from New-Hampshire, making 4500; informing them, that
Congress desire they will not wait till the several corps are completed; and
that there is now a plentiful stock of provisions at Ticonderoga, and nothing to
fear from the enemy till the lake shall be frozen, as abovementioned.
Resolved, That two members be added to the committee appointed on the
17th of October for the better regulating the treasury board:
The members chosen, Mr. Nelson and Mr. Ellery.
Resolved, That 533 30 dollars be advanced to Thomas Nichols, deputy
quarter-master general, for the public service, and charged to the account of
brigadier-general Mifflin, quarter-master general, to whom said Nichols, who
is an officer in his department, is to be accountable.
Sundry French letters were laid before Congress, and read:
Ordered, That the said letters be referred to the committee for procuring
Cann OI).
Resolved, That a member be added to the said committee.
The member chosen, Mr. Lewis.
Resolved, That two other magazines of ammunition, in addition to that agreed
to on the 21st, be formed, one in the eastern states, and one in the southern
states: l w
Ordered, That the delegates of the eastern states confer together, and also
those of the southern states, and fix upon proper places, and report to Congress
on Thursday next. º
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock on Thursday next.
J THURSDAY, December 26, 1776.
Sundry letters were read, viz.
One, of the 16th, from general Washington, with an extract of a letter from
commissary-general Trumbull:
One, of the 13th, from commissary-general Trumbull at Morristown :
One, of the 8th, from governor Cooke:
One, of the 20th, from general Washington, with a plan for the establishment
of artillery, and a memorandum :
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. º 583
One, of the 21st, from general N. Green:
Two, of the 22d, from the council of safety of Pennsylvania, with sundry
letters from Ticonderoga:
One, of the 2d, from colonel Anthony Wayne, at Ticonderoga, with sundry
papers enclosed :
One, of the 6th, from colonel J. Wood, at ditto:
One, of the 23d, from Samuel Washington, of Berkley county, Virginia:
One, of the 10th, from colonel John Brown, of Albany, with papers enclosed:
Also, a letter from Donald M’Leod, Alexander M'Leod, Kenneth M’Donald,
and a petition from Thomas Slater, prisoners.
Resolved, That 400,000 dollars be advanced to Joseph Trumbull, esq. com-
missary-general ; he to be accountable.
Resolved, That J. Trumbull, esq. commissary-general, be empowered to im-
port, at the continental risk, from Virginia and Maryland, and the other south-
ern states, such quantities of flour and other provisions as he may judge neces-
sary for the support of the army.
Resolved, That the delegates of Virginia be empowered and directed to
write to the governor and council of their state, and request them to contract
with proper persons for the delivery of 10,000 barrels of flour on James, York,
Rappahannock, and Potomac rivers, to the order of Joseph Trumbull, com-
missary-general, or of a larger quantity should he require a further supply;
the said Joseph Trumbull to send vessels to take it in, and to pay for, or draw
orders on the president of Congress for the payment of the same.
Ordered, That the letters read be referred to a committee of the whole :
Congress then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into
consideration the letters; and, after some time spent thereon, the president re-
sumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the committee have had un-
der consideration the letters to them referred ; but, not having had time to
finish, desire leave to sit again to-morrow at ten o’clock.
Resolved, That this Congress will, to-morrow, at ten o’clock, resolve itself
into a committee of the whole, to take into consideration the letters read this
day.
Keview, That a committee of three be appointed to take into consideration
the state of the army, and report thereon to-morrow morning:
The members chosen, Mr. Richard H. Lee, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. S. Adams.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to prepare a plan for the
better conducting the executive business of Congress, by boards composed of
persons, not members of Congress:
The members chosen, Mr. Whipple, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Gerry, Mr. Nelson,
and Mr. Morris.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
FRIDAY, December 27, 1776.
Resolved, That 3,333.30 dollars be advanced to Mr. James Nourse, for the
use of the militia of Berkley and Frederick counties, in Virginia, who are about
to march to reinforce general Washington; the said Mr. Nourse to be account-
able for the expenditure.
Resolved, That the resolution passed the 3d of December, granting a pair of
shoes and stockings to the militia of Pennsylvania, and the same rations and
monthly pay with the other troops on the continental establishment, to com-
mence from the time of their enrolment, be extended to the Virginia militia,
who march to reinforce general Washington.
Sundry letters were read, viz. one of the 23d, from R. Morris; one, of the
Šd, from general Schuyler, at Saratoga; one from Henricus Gode, of St. Eu-
statia, of November 30th : one, of the 18th, from Richard Dallam, deputy pay-
584 JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
-*.
master general, at Newtown, in Bucks county, Pennsylvania; one, of the
5th, from Jonathan Trumbull; one, of the 25th November, from Joseph Trum-
bull; also, a petition from Faneuil and others, to the assembly of Massachu-
setts-Bay, and a resolution passed by the said assembly in consequence thereof.
The committee on the state of the army, brought in a report, which was
taken into consideration ; Whereupon, -
Resolved, That a brigadier general of artillery be appointed; and, the bal-
lots being taken, *
Colonel Henry Knox was elected.
Itesolved, That general Washington be empowered to use every endeavor,
by giving bounties and otherwise, to prevail upon the troops, whose term of
inlistment will expire at the end of the month, to stay with the army so long
after that period, as its situation shall render their stay necessary:
That the new levies in Virginia, Maryland, the Delaware state, Pennsylva-
nia, and New Jersey, be ordered to march by companies, and parts of compa-
nies, as fast as they shall be raised, and join the army under general Wash-
ington, with the utmost despatch: *
That the foregoing resolution be transmitted by the president to the execu-
tive powers of the states before mentioned, who are requested to carry it into
execution; to appoint commissaries to precede the troops, and procure provi-
sion for them on their march; and that they be empowered to draw money for
this purpose from the nearest continental pay-master :
That general Washington be empowered to appoint a commissary of prison-
ers, and a clothier-general for supplying the army ; to fix their salaries, and
return their names to Congress: ^,
That general Washington be requested to fix upon that system of promotion
in the continental army, which, in his opinion, and that of the general officers
with him, will produce most general satisfaction; that it be suggested to him,
whether a promotion of field-officers in the colonial line, and of captains and
subalterns in the regimental line, would not be the most proper :
That Congress approve of general Washington's directing the quarter-mas-
ter general to provide teams for each regiment, and for other necessary pur-
OSCS :
That the 2d and 7th Virginia regiments, with all the convalescents from the
other corps left in that º now fit for duty, be ordered to march and
join the army under general Washington, with the utmost despatch, leaving the
arms that they have at present, with the governor and council of that state, as
they will be provided with others at the Head of Elk :
That three regiments, upon the new establishment, in North-Carolina, be
ordered to march immediately to join general Washington:
That the state of Virginia be empowered to call into service, at the conti-
mental expense, three regiments of militia, or minute-men, if such a measure
shall, by that state, be judged necessary.
The unjust, but determined, P. of the British court to enslave those
free states, obvious through every delusive insinuation to the contrary, having
placed things in such a situation, that the very existence of civil liberty now
depends on the right execution of military powers, and the vigorous, decisive
conduct of these, being impossible to distant, numerous, and deliberative
bodies: * &
This Congress, having maturely considered the present crisis; and having
º: reliance on the wisdom, vigor, and uprightness of general Washington,
do, hereby,
#. That general Washington shall be, and he is hereby, vested with
full, ample, and complete powers to raise and collect together, in the most
speedy and effectual manner, from any or all of these United States, 16 bat-
talions of infantry, in addition to those already voted by Congress; to appoint
t
JoURNALs of congress, 1776. 585
officers for the said battalions of infantry; to raise, officer, and equip 3000
light-horse; three regiments of artillery, and a corps of engineers, and to es-
tablish their pay; to apply to any of the states for such aid of the militia as he
shall judge necessary; to form such magazines of provisions, and in such places,
as he shall think proper; to displace and appoint all officers under the rank
of brigadier-general, and to fill up all vacancies in every other department in
the American army; to take, wherever he may be, whatever he may want for
the use of the army, if the inhabitants will not sell it, allowing a reasonable
price for the same; to arrest and confine persons who refuse to take the con:
tinental currency, or are otherwise disaffected to the American cause ; and
return to the states of which they are citizens, their names, and the nature of
their offences, together with the witnesses to prove them :
That the foregoing powers be vested in gen, Washington, for and during the
term of six months from the date hereof, unless sooner determined by Congress,
Resolved, That the council of safety of Pennsylvania be requested to take
the most vigorous and speedy measures for punishing all such as refuse con-
tinental currency; and that the general be directed to give all necessary aid to
the council of safety, for carrying their measures on this subject into effectual
execution.
Mr. Hillegas having returned the names of persons by him employed to super-
intend the press, and to sign the bills of credit, they were agreed to ; and are,
Superintendents of the press, Thomas Harrison, William Smithe, and John
Merryman, junior. * *
Signers of money, William Asquith, John Griffith, Hercules Courtney, John
Cockey, James Kelso, Richard Cromell, James Colhourn, George Welsh,
Theodore Barrel, Thomas Donnellan, John Boyd, Benjamin Levy, Samuel
Hillegas, and William Govett.
Resolved, That 266.60 dollars be advanced to John Griffith, for the use of
the sick soldiers in Baltimore; he to be accountable.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
SATURDAY, December 28, 1776.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare a circular let-
ter to the several United States, explaining the reasons which induced Con-
gress to enlarge the powers of general Washington, and requesting them to
co-operate with him, and give him all the aid in their power:
‘The members chosen, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. Adams.
Resolved, That the five millions of dollars, which, by the resolution of the
2d of November last, the treasury board were ordered to prepare and have
ready for emission, be now emitted on the faith of the United States.
Resolved, That the council of safety of the state of Maryland, be, and they
are hereby, requested, to furnish Mr. John Griffith with fifty blankets for the
use of the sick soldiers in Baltimore, who stand in immediate need thereof.
Resolved, That 400 dollars be advanced to colonel Carvill Hall, for the use
of his battalion; he to be accountable. *
The committee, to whom the report of the gentlemen who were directed to
repair to Ticonderoga, and the papers therein mentioned, were referred, brought
in a report, which was taken into consideration; Whereupon,
Resolved, That in the opinion of Congress, the northern army may be sup-
plied more advantageously and conveniently, in the present mode of the com-
missary general’s governing himself by such regulations as have been, and may
be, from time to time, ordained by the general or commander in chief, than by
contractors:
That the commissary-general be directed, without fail, to supply the aorth-
ern army, this wine; yº vegetables twice in every week, or more fre-
OL. 1 . 74 *
586 ~ JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776.
quently, if possible; and to take effectual measures that they be well supplied
with vinegar:
That two large floating batteries be built on Lake-Champlain, to cover the
boom and the bridge; and that general Schuyler be desired to contract with
builders for this purpose in New-York, or Massachusetts-Bay, or both, and
that general Schuyler provide the materials: ';
That the committee for supplying cannon be directed to procure ten brass six
inch howitzers, with shells, and a properattrail, for the use of the northern army:
That a fort be constructed on Mºis. : that the navigation of
the lake near that place be obstructed by cassoons, to be sunk in the water,
at small distances from one another, and joined together by string-pieces, so
as, at the same time, to serve for a bridge between the fortifications on the
east and west-side ; that, to prevent the enemy from drawing their small-craft
over land beyond Three-Mile Point into Lake-George, the passage of that lake
be also obstructed, in like manner, by cassoons from island to island in the nar-
rows, if practicable, or by floating batteries; that Fort Stanwix be strength-
ened, and other fortifications be made at proper places near the Mohawk river,
and that general Schuyler, or the commanding officer of the northern army,
execute these works this winter; and that the commanding officers of artillery,
chief engineer, quarter-master general, and commissary-general, provide and
perform whatever things in their respective departments are necessary, or may
contribute to the accomplishment thereof:
That the general court, or council, of the state of Massachusetts-Bay, be re-
quested to procure such a quantity of oakum, and any other articles, as general
Schuyler, who is desired to write to them on the subject, shall require; and to
forward the same to such places as he shall direct:
That the board of war be empowered and directed to write to Philadelphia
for accoutrements and necessaries to supply the six troops of light-horse or-
dered from Virginia.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow morning,
# SUNDAY, December 29, 1776.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to consider the letter from general
Schuyler, dated the 10th of December, be directed to send a suitable person
or persons to Mr. Livingston, owner of the foundery in the state of New-York,
and to governor Trumbull, under whose direction is the foundery at Salisbury;
also to the council of the state of Massachusetts-Bay, to procure such cannon
and stores, as are required by the general in his said letter; they being imme-
diately necessary for the northern department.
• Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned for appointing more general officers,
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
MONDAY, December 30, 1776.
A letter, of the 21st, from brigadier-general Lewis, was read; also two let-
ters of the 26th and 27th, from Mr. R. Morris.
The committee, appointed to consider the letters from general Schuyler, re-
lating to the northern army, brought in a report; Whereupon,
Resolved, Thatgen. Schuyler, or the commanding officer of the northern army,
be directed to cause an elaboratory to be erected at such place as he shalljudge
most convenient, to fix all the necessary ammunition for the ensuing campaign,
Resolved, That 15 companies, consisting of a captain or overseer, and 30
men each, be engaged, upon such terms as general Schuyler shall think just
and equitable, for the batteau service: and be occasionally employed on the
high-ways and other quarter-master general’s department; and that four com-
*
JOURNALS OF CONGRESS, 1776. 587
panies of . to consist of an overseer and twenty-five men each, be
engaged in like manner to attend the northern army.
For the better regulating wagons in the northern army,
Resolved, That two wagons be allowed to each company on a march, and one
wagon to the colonel, one to the lieutenant-colonel and major, one to the staff
of a regiment, and one for the particular use of the director of the hospital; each
wagon, to be drawn by two horses, (except that for the colonel, which is to be
allowed four horses,) and subject to such orders as shall, from time to time, be
issued by the general or commanding officer.
Resolved, That if any commissioned or non-commissioned officer shall em-
ploy more carriages than are mentioned in the foregoing resolution, he shall
not be allowed to make a public charge of it, but shall pay the customary price
himself; and, on his refusal or neglect of so doing, he shall be subject to be
fined by a court-martial in treble the sum ; one third part of such fine to be for
the use of the owner of the wagon or other carriage so employed, and the other
two-thirds to the pay-master for the public use; the part adjudged to the
owner of the carriage shall be paid to him by any quarter-master on the certifi-
cate of the president of the court-martial, who shall transmit the whole fine to
the pay-master, in order that the same may be deducted from the pay of the
delinquent.
Congress being informed that some of the prisoners have broken out of gaol,
and made their escape,
Resolved, That the committee of observation for Baltimore county be re-
quested to direct immediate and strict search for the prisoners, who last night
escaped from the gaol in Baltimore town, and to offer a reward for the appre-
hending and securing the said prisoners; and that the said committee make
enquiry into the conduct of the gaoler, or any other person suspected of per-
miting or assisting their escape ; and that they take such measures as they
shall think proper to bring the offenders to mºnt.
Resolved, That 200 dollars be paid into the hands of the committee appoint-
ed to consider the letter from gen. Schuyler, of the 10th of December, for the
payment of the expenses of some suitable person or persons to be . by them
to Mr. Livingston, gov. Trumbull, and the council of the state of Massachu-
setts-Bay, agreeable to a resolution passed yesterday; the said committee to
be accountable. º
The committee appointed to prepare a circular letter to the several states,
reported a draught, which was read, amended, and agreed to :
Ordered, That copies be made, signed by the president, and transmitted to
each of the United States.
It appearing to Congress that it will be extremely difficult, if not impractica-
ble, to º the army of the United States with bacon, salted beef, pork, Soap,
tallow, and candles, unless the exportation thereof be prohibited ; therefore,
Resolved, That none of the said articles, except such as may be necessary
for the crew of any ship or vessel, be exported from any of these United States
after the 5th day of January next, until the first day of November next, or un-
til Congress shall take further order therein. And it is earnestly recommended
to the executive powers of the several United States, to see that this resolution
be strictly complied with.
Resolved, That the board of war be empowered to agree with and employ, as
an assistant clerk, Mr. Nourse, late gen. Lee's secretary.
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
TUESDAY, December 31, 1776.
A letter, of the 27th, from general Washington, and one, of the 28th, from
the committee of Congress, at Philadelphia, with sundry papers enclosed, were
read.
588 Journals OF CONGRESS, 1776.
Resolved, That doctor Mackenzie be, and he is hereby, authorized to pur-
chase such medicines as are immediately wanted for the sick soldiers belonging
to the army of the United States, now in Baltimore, and return an account
thereof to Congress.
Resolved, That gen. Smallwood be directed to exert his utmost endeavours,
and give the necessary orders and instructions to expedite the raising the levies
in the state of Maryland; and that it be earnestly recommended to the legisla-
ture and council of safety, the several committees of observation, the civil, mili-
tary and militia officers of said state, and every friend of liberty and the United
States, to give gen. Smallwood every assistance in their power.
Resolved, That 300 dollars be advanced to lieutenant-colonel Antil, of col.
IIazen’s battalion, for the use of the said battalion; and that the same be
charged to the account of col. Hazen, who is to be accountable.
Resolved, That the requisition of general Schuyler for a supply of 60 tons of
cannon powder, and 34 tons of º powder, for the use of the northern
army, be referred to gen. Washington, and that he be directed to furnish that
army with such quantities of that article as can be spared.
Resolved, That the board of war be directed to inform gen. Washington of
the quantities of gun-powder, belonging to the Congress, on hand in the differ-
ent parts of America, as far as may have come to their knowledge.
A memorial from lieutenant-col. Antil was presented to Congress and read:
Ordered, That it be referred to the board of war.
A letter from William Kennon, of North-Carolina, to gen. Lee, was read :
Ordered, That it be referred to a committee of three :
The members chosen, Mr. Hooper, Mr. Heyward, and Mr. Harrison.
Resolved, That any restrictions heretofore imposed upon the exportation of
staves and other lumber, except to Great-Britain, Ireland, and the British
Islands, or any place under the dominion of Great-Britain, cease. *
Resolved, That a letter be written to gen. Washington, desiring him to order
the clothier-general to send agents into each state, to buy up linens and other
clothing proper for the soldiery; and that he give similar orders to the quarter-
master genetºl to pursue the same mode for procuring a sufficient quantity of
tent-cloth: and that they be severally directed to apply to the states to afford
all necessary assistance therein. And whereas great expense hath heretofore
arisen from public agents trading against each other, the general is desired to
caution the clothier-general and quarter-master general, that their agents afore-
said fall not into the above mistake in time to come. *
A memorial from John Matthewson, and others, was read; also a letter from
Mr. Hughes.
Ordered, That they be referred to the marine committee.
An appeal being lodged against the judgment of the court of admiralty for
the state of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations, on the libel Esek Hop-
kins, vs. Richard Derby :
Ordered, That it be received, that it may be prosecuted before the commit-
tee on appeals. i t
The several matters to this day referred, being postponed,
Adjourned to ten o’clock to-morrow.
|END OF THE FIRST VOLUME,
INDEX TO VOLUME I.
A.

Absence, delegates to obtain leave of, 177, 415.
Accomac and Northampton counties, in Virginia,
to be defended, 196, 197,230.
Accounts, orders for payment, to be signed by
the President of Congress, 145, (See Claims.)
Acts of the British parliament, restraining com-
merce, 99, 314.
Adams Samuel, delegates from Massachusetts,
John, 1, 50, 259.
William, ºn, his resignation ac-
cepted, 382.
Address to the king of Great-Britain, 16, 38, 39,
idſ, io9, 106.
to the people of Great-Britain, 19, 23,
26 to 31, 100, 105 to 111.
to the inhabitants of the colonies, 19,23,
26, 31 to 38.
to the inhabitants of *# 38, 39,
40 to 45.
from the parish of St. John's, in Georgia,
3.
to the inhabitants of Canada, 74, 75, 76.
to the assembly of Jamaica, 122, 123.
to the people of Ireland, 125 to 129: .
to captain White-Eyes, an Indian chief,
208,209, 311, 312.
to the Onondago, and other tribes of
Indians, 369,481,572, 573.
Alºne of Congress from Friday till Mon-
day, 382.
Adjutant-general, appointed, 365.
Adjutants of regiments, their pay and rank,481.
Admiralty courts established, 183, 184.
Advice boats, 461.
Agents in England, letters from Congress to, 39,
f 2
their circular letter, 55.
for prizes, appointed, 324,386.
for }. affairs, 311 `S
Agriculture, arts, &c. to be promoted, 293,294.
Aids-de-camp, their pay and rank, 87, 227, 328,
365.
Aitkin Robert, to print journals of Congress, 500.
Alarm posts to convey intelligence, 150.
Alexander Robert, a delegate from Maryland,
212, 415.
Allegiance to the British crown dissolved, 392.
Allen Etham, cruelly treated by the enemy, 196.
to be exchanged, 420.
William, lieutenant-colonel,226.
resigns, 422.
Allison rev. Mr. to preach on the general º
118.
~~~
appointed chaplaim to Congress,
58
Jöl.
Alsop John, a delegate from New-York, 9, 50.
Alston William, lieutenant-colonel, 336.
America, state of, considered, 71, 72, 73,77, 78,
\ 79, 82,83.
American army, appointment of a general and
commander in chief of the, 83.
rank and pay of other officers of
the, 84, 123, 129, 130.
to be furnished with camp-equi-
age, &c. 87, 145, 175, 212,
k
27, 25i, 358, 403,466, 493.
73
WOL. I.
American army, rules and regulations for the,
83, 90 to 98, 374, 435, 441,
448, 481,482 to 493.
increased, 123, 151, 153, 165,
203, 217, 218, 225, 230, 233,
242, 250, 298, 345, 346, 363,
386, 389, 390, 399, 419, 430,
465, 468, 476.
cause, proceedings relative to persons
disaffected to the, 219, 224,
225, 227, 254, 285.
colonies declared free and indepen-
dent states, 368, 369, 391,
392 to 396.
Anderson Ephraim, appointed adjutant, 185.
Andrew Doria, brig, officers, &c. of, to be paid,
506
Ann, communication to be opened between
Skenesborough and fort, 232.
Anstruther Mr. the case of his diamond ring,446.
captain, his petition rejected, 528.
Antil Edward, lieutenant-colonel, 244,
money advanced to, 246, 569,
576, 588.
continued in service, 495.
Mrs. permitted to go to New-York, 526.
Appeal in the case of Schr. Thistle, and cargo,
433,440, 454, 470, 499,
500
brigantime Elizabeth, 471,
502,507, 515, 516, 517.
ship Charming Peggy, 521.
sloop Betsey, 541,554,
Levin Jones, vs. sloop Wul-
can, 562.
Eseck Hopkins, vs. Rich-
ard Derby, 588. ſ
Appºintments to places of profit, how determined,
Appraisers of clothing, to be appointed, 519, 520.
Apprentices, not to be inlisted without consent,
&c. 249, 251, 252.
Apsden Matthias, permitted to export produce,
254.
Arms, to be removed from Ticonderoga, 71, 72.
measures for a supply of, 74, 118.
manufacture of, recommended, 164.
purchased and repaired by Rhode-Island,
mot a continental charge, 197.
furnished the troops ordered to Northamp-
taken from tories, how disposed of,
from the enemy, 5
to be imported, $63, 530.
and other public property, to be returned,
474,
ton, 198. }
sent to Virginia, 319. 5
lost, or taken by the enemy, no allowance
to be made for, 517.
Armstrong John, brigadier general, 277.
ordered to South-Carolina,277.
permitted to return to Phila-
delphia, 474. *
Arnold col. Benedict, his letter from Crown-
Point, 77.
promoted, 233.
ii INDEX.
Assembly of Pennsylvania, (see Pennsylvania.)
Assistants to the dº pay-master general,
allowed, 232
their pay, 232.
Association relative to non-consumption, non-
importation, &c. proposed and
agreed to, 19, 22, 23 to 26.
minth article modified, 331,
Auditor-general of the treasury, his office insti-
tuted, 302.
to take an oath of fidelity and
secrecy, 302.
his salary, 306.
appointed, 309.
money advanced to, 443.
Aurora, ship, to be fitted out, 508.
Aylet William, deputy commissary-general, 328.
Benedict Joseph, major, 280.
resigns, 334.
Bermuda, letters from the deputies in the island
of, 112, 138.
provisions allowed to be exported to,
j
excepted from regulations respecting
enemies’ property, 423.
*essels, with cargoes, not to be fitted
out for, 431.
Bernard and Wadden, proceedings respº;
Berton Peter, his petition rejected, 214.
Bessonet —, deputy post-master at Bristol, to
be dismissed from office, 556.
to be apprehended and brought
to Philadelphia, 556.
discharged, 562.
Betsey, sloop, to be sold, 455. ,
appeal in the case of, 541.
Beveridge David, his petition considered, 205.
Bicker #. major, 226.
Biddle Clement, deputy quarter-master general,
money advanced to, 409, 559.
Edward, a delegate from Pennº,
, DU.
Billingsport,in New-Jersey, a redoubt,to be erect-
ed at, 374. º
Bills of credit, emissions of 87, 88,121, 123,205,
227, 270,335, 338, 353,420,
441, 585.
forms of, 88,271, 354. f
persons appºinted to superintend
the printing of, 121.
to sign and number,
123, 205, 227, 271,
585
Arnold col. Benedict, his agreement at the Ce-
dars, 376, 403, 405.
proceedings between a
court-martial and, 462.
money advanced to John
Bonfield for, 479.
Articles of war, 83, 90 to 98.
to be republished, 175.
sent to Canada, 245.
revised, 374,435,441, 481,482
to 493
of confederation, (see confederation.)
Artillery, regiment to be raised in Virginia, 560.
field, and other officers of, 560.
Arundel Dohickey, appointed captain of artillº
88
money advanced to, 259, 3öö,
301.
- B.
Bache Richard, comptroller of the post-office,
his letter, 531.
proceedings on, 531,538, 539.
appointed post-master genº
directed to dismiss — Besso-
met from office, 556, s
money advanced to, 559.
Bahama islands, excepted from regulations re-
specting enemies' property, 423,
Baldwin Jedutham, assistant engineer, homored
by Congress, 328.
appointed engineer, 464.
Bales Thomas, his proposal to furnish camp-
kettles accepted, 374.
Ballantime Patrick, apprehended and conſº
º
Ballots, when equal, how determined, 146.
Baltimore, removal of Congress from Philadel-
phia to, 578.
Bancombe Edward, colonel, 336.
Barbarie Mr. directed to prosecute his claim for
salvage, 252.
Barber Francis, major, 260.
Barnet William, appointed surgeon, 202.
Barrel William, money advanced to, 299.
Bartlett Josiah, a delegate from New-Hamp-
shire, 141,271.
Battalions, field-officers of, 167, 182, 223, 226,
233, 241, 245, 260, 263, 280, 288, 299, 336,
419, 426, 440, 468, 470, 512, 560.
Batteries in the highlands of New-York, 150,
floating, on Lake Champlaim, 586.
Beane John, money paid to, 258.
Beaudreau Isaiah, money advanced to, 329.
Beaumont Henry, permitted to reside at Eliza-
bethtown, on parole, 338.
Doctor, his medicine chest to be pur-
chased, 243.
Bedel colonel, commander of a detachment at
the Cedars, 403.
to be tried by a court-martial,
427
Bedford Gunning, deputy lmuster-mâSter genº,
ordered to muster the Pennsyl-
* vania troops, 202,
appointed lieut. colonel, 241.
ordered to Canada, 276.
appointed muster-master ge-
meral, 379.
Beef and pork, salted, exportation prohibited#.
Beekman Gerard, W. money advanced to, 561.
Belletre M. money advanced to, 304,
Bellew Mrs, application of 338.
counterfeiters of, to be punished,
385.
drawn by the pay-master general to be P. j
of exchange, drawn by British officers, not
to be negotiated, 78.
Price and ‘Haywood, empow-
ered to draw, 323.
Bird Mark, money advanced to, 451.
Blacksmiths to be employed on Hudson river,461.
Blaine Ephraim, directed to furnish supplies to
troops at williamºyº
money advanced to, 326, 362,
416, 528.
appointed commissary of pro-
visions, 521. • ‘
Bland Richard, a delegate from Virginia, 1, 53.
INDE
X.
iii
Bland Richard, declines a re-election, 137.
Blue Mountain Valley, transport, captured, 250.
captain and mates per-
mitted to return to
Eugland,253.
cargo oſ, to be landed
and secured, 275.
cargo of, to be sold, 295
8: Treasury Office of Acc’ts.)
rdnance, established, 370,
471.
their duty and officers,
370, 371, 372.
references and directions to,
375, 379,382, 386,388, 389,
392,418, 433,435, 439,441, #
443, 453,457,478,479,481,
494. 501, 513, 515, 517, 523,
526, 534, 535, 542, 543, 544,
545, 547, 550, 551, 561,566,
567, 572, 588.
reports from, 381, 385, 386,
387, 397, 401,421,443,446,
447, 451,459, 470,495, 505,
515, 518, 522, 523, 526, 535,
536, 539, 547, 553,560, 561,
568
Board of Treasury,
Board of War and
~
letters to and from, free of
postage, 469.
empowered to
oaths, 556.
Boerum Simon, a delegate from New York, 52.
Boger and Ball, lieutenants, paroled, 498.
Bonfield John, money advanced to, 479.
Bonvolour Momsr., his person and papers to be
seized and examined, 562.
Boston, hostile appearances at, 16, 17, 13.
may be attacked when the General thinks
fit, 213
taken by the American army, 297, 298.
vessels, &c. left there, how disposed of,
331, 332, 334.
Bouderot Bazil, proceedings relative to, 450.
Bounty, in the account exhibited by Rhode-Is-
land, mot to be allowed, 198.
for seamen imported, 319.
to soldiers who inlist for three years,
administer
&
\
C.
Cadwallader Lambert, lieut. colonel, 226.
money advanced to, 563,
567.
Cameron Allen, to have the attendance of a phy-
sician, 327.
allowed to walk in the gaol-
yard, 361.
Campbell Duncan, taken prisoner, 158.
permitted to reside at Lam-
caster on parole, 245.
Donald,deputy quarter-master gene#
18.
proceedings of a court martial
- against, 447.
Camp equipage to be §: 145, 175, 212,
221, 251,398,409, 460,498.
Canada, letter from Congress to the people of,
5
º 2 º
not to be invaded by the colonists,
7
Bounty for soldiers who inlist during the %.
for the capture of British vessels, §.
Box, brigade major, 142.
Boyd John, money advanced to, 580.
Dr. appointed surgeon, 205,
Bradford John, agent of prizes, 324.
Bradley Stephen R. money advanced to, 388.
Braxton Carter, a delegate from Virginia, 272.
Brewer, brigade major, 142.
Brigadiers general, when on command, may ap-
point brigade majors, 301.
Brigadiers, provincial, to be appointed 363.
British army, navy, and fisheries, proceedings
relative to, 71, 76, 78.
crown, (See Great Britain.)
Brown John, lieut. colonel, 426.
William, assistant physician, 494
Browne James, permitted to return to Ireland,
507
Brownson Nathan, a delegate from Georgia, 579.
Bruyn Jacobus S., lieut. colonel, 387.
Buckner Mordecai, colonel, 263.
money advanced to, 531.
Budden, capt. William, taken by the enemy, 338.
to be exchanged, 359.
Bull John, appointed colonel, 182.
his conduct complained of, 239.
offers to resign his commission, 242.
leave granted, 244.
money advanced to, 262.
Bullet Thomas, appointed dep, adj. general, 279.
promoted, 347.
Burbeck, lieut. colonel, dismissed from the con-
timental service, 357.
Butler Richard, to be compensated, 346.
John, intercepted letter from, 327.
William, major, 470.
Zebulon, to supply troops at Westmore-
land, Penn. 456.
Butterfield, º surrenders the post at the Ce-
ars, 403.
his conduct censured by Congress,
405,
to be tried by a court martial, 427
farther proceedings of Congress in
the case of 564.
American troops sent to, 229, 230, 24i,
242, 243, 362.
Commissioners appointed to "; with,
y
Canada, General Gates to take command of
forces im, 376.
inquiry into causes of miscarriages in
385, 400, 417, 427, 468
inhabitants of, captured, to be released,
and sent home, 513.
Canadian regiments raised, 386, 398.
field, and other officers of,
387, 898.
Cannon to be removed from Ticonderoga, 72.
furnished by Rhode-Island, allowed in
their accounts, 197
to be cast, and purchased, 236,269,378,
451, 493, 553, 563, 568.
sent to Quebec, 268.
left at New-London, account of, re-
quired, 389.
delivery and disposition of 268, 319,
322, 334,337,352,430, 561, 563.
º. of Virginia to purchase, 545.
ommittee appointed, 236, 266, 270.
references and directions to,
264,366,269,270,316,344,
378,417,420,424,542,561.
money advanced to, 344,
?
the war to be carried on there, 354,
356.
479, 54%, sº
iw
INDEX.
Cape Fear river, in North-Carolina, entrance
of, to be fortified, 531.
Carbolais Simon, his petition rejected, 528.
Carrington Edward, lieut. colonel of artillery,
566,
Carroll Charles, (of Carrollton,) commissioner
to treat with Camada, 292,
370
a delegate from Maryland,
415,553.
Cartel between general Arnold and captain Fos-
ter, 376, 403, 405
Carter, John, commissioner of accounts, 425.
Caswell Richard, a delegate from North Caro-
lina, 9, 50.
Cayashota, an Indian chief, appointed colº
48.
thanks of Congress to, 429.
Cedars, post at the, taken by the enemy, 376, 403.
proceedings of Congress re-
specting, 405, 406, 427.
Chambault M. de, released, 513.
Chambers James, lieut. colonel, 280,
Chambly, fort, taken, 177.
Chaplaims to Congress appointed, 402, 580, 581
Chapman John, money advanced to, 262.
N James, major, 447.
Charleston, South-Carolina, approach of the
enemy to, 389.
Charming peggy, ship, appeal in the case #.
5
Chase Samuel, a delegate from Maryland. 1,
50, 138, 415, 553.
commissioner to treat with Ca-
nada, 292, 370.
Cherokee Indians commence hostilities in South
Carolina, 427.
Chevalier P. to audit accounts of Pennsylvania
militia, 497.
Christian William, lieut. colonel, 263.
promoted, 288.
declines acceptance, 440.
religion, Indians to be instructed in
the, 310.
Christman Paul, ensign, his resignation ac-
cepted, 542.
Church Benjamin, introduced to Congress, 78.
appointed director general of
the hospital, 125.
corresponds with the enº
54
confined in gaol, 167.
petitions Congress, 238,240.
removed from Connecticut
to Massachusetts, 343.
Claims, committee of, appointed, 144.
reports from, 145, 146,
47, 148, 151, 152, 153,
156, 157, 159, 161, 162,
163, 166, 167, 168, 176,
182, 198, 203, 208, 210,
211, 213, 214, 217, 221,
226, 233,234, 236, 241,
242, 244, 245, 248, 251,
266, 269,270, 272, 280,
283, 293, 294, 295, 301,
306, 308, 309, 310, 312,
318, 320, 321, 325, 327,
328, 330, 331, 332, 333,
337, 338, 342, 352, 353,
356, 359, 366, 375, 381,
382, 383, 385, 387, 388,
390, 407,419,421, 424.
discharged from farther
consideration, 428.
for services and supplies, how *;
i º
Clarke Thomas, lieut. colonel, 336.
Clarke Abraham, a delegate from New J ersey,
390, 569.
Clinton James, colonel, 280.
promoted, 437,
George, a delegate from New-York, 69.
Henry, British general, arrives at New
ork,
leaves it, 265.
Clothing to be provided, 120, 139, 143, 153, 162,
223, 232, 325, 336,357, 382,430, 459,
465, 468, 471, 476, 497.
Clough Alexander, adjutant, 178.
Clymer George, and Michael Hillegas, conti-
mental treasurers, 130.
a delegate from Pennsylvan#.
418.
his office of treasurer abo-
lished, 434.
entrusted by Congress with
special business, 580.
Coffin, captain, his vessel detained in New
York, 33.
Cole, Mr. money advanced to, 295.
Colerus Christian, brevet major, 480.
money advanced to, 494.
Commissaries of prisoners, to be appointed, §
5
to make monthly re-
turns, 508.
1. Conumissary general appointed, 120.
to provide beef and pork,
147, 164,563.
pay and rations of persons
in his department, 355.
to supply the northern ar-
mies, 401, 472.
to make weekly returns,
431.
to provide salt, 499.
to appoint conductors of
stores, 511.
to purchase provisions in
the Southern States,
58
money advanced to the,
156, 325, 379, 546, 558,
62, 583.
of stores for the New York
department, 130, #:
Commissioners for Indian affairs appointed, 113,
* , , 5
their powers and
duty, 113, 114.
money advanced
to, 113, 418,
481, 567,
to treat with Canada, 289, $90.
their instructions, 289 to 292.
to settle accounts in Čanada, 381.
of army accounts, 412.
instructions to, 556.
for accounts of New York, 417.
instructions to, 444.
for accounts of the northern de-
partment, 425.
instructions to, 537.
to audit accounts in Virginia, 476.
*Commissions to commanders of private ships of
war, form of, 303
Committee, to state the rights of the colonies, 7,
\ , 9, 15, 19 to 22.
to examine statutes affecting trade
and manufactures, 7, 8, 9, 14.
on a non-importation agreement, &c.
15, 19, 22, 23 to 26
INDEX.
Committee to confer with general Schuyler, 162,
to purchase clothing for the army,
, 268.
on the defence of South-Carolina,
162, 165, 166.
of New York,' iès,
218, 224, 226.
on the state of the treasury, 166, 182
192, 214, 215
(Secret.) 168. (See Secret Committee.)
&n the défence of Virginia, 172, 196,
196,217, 218.
for supplying soldiers in barracks,
174, 176.
on illegal ministerial proclamations,
175, 192, 199.
on the disposal of captured vessels and
cargoes, 177, 198,228,289.
for examining frauds in executing
contracts, 181.
on the payment and circulation of
bills of credit, 181, 234.
on the defence of North-Carolina,
181, 191.
of correspondence, 192, 205, 340.
on expresses for conveying intelli-
gence, 196, 202, 253.
of qualifications, 202, 238. (See
Qualifications.)
on arrest and imprisonment of sol-
diers for small debts, 202, 204, 216.
on fitting out a naval armament, 204,
2
Committee, to prepare an address to the king of
Great-Britain, 16, 38,
39, 45,46 to 49.
a letter to general Gage,
18, 19.
an address to the pecple
of Great-Britain, 19,23,
26 to 31.
an address to the inhabi-
tants of the colonies,
19, 23, 31 to 38.
an address to the people
of Quebec, &c. 38, 39,
40 to 45.
on the occupation of posts in New-
York, 70, 72.
to prepare a letter to the people of
anada, 74, 75, 76.
for a supply of ammunition and mili-
tary stores, 74, 77.
* to establish a post for conveying let-
ters, &c. 76,121, 124.
to prepare a letter to the convention
of Massachusetts, 77, 79.
to draft a petition to the king, 79, 86,
100, 104,105,106
to prepare a second address to the in:
gº habitants of Great-Britain,
** 79, 89, 106 to 111.
an address to the people of
Irelaad, 79,121, 125 to 129.
a letter to the inhabitants of
Jamaica, 79, 121, 122, 123.
to form an estimate of money neces-
sary to be raised, 79.
* on the manufacture of saltpetre, 81.
to prepare rules and regulations for
the army, 83, 90 to 98.
to superintend the printing of bills of
credit, 88.
to place the militia in a proper state
or defence, 88, 89, 112, 117, 118,
119
on the trade of the colonies, 114, 121.
to report a plan for a general hospital,
20, 121, 124,125.
to prepare an estimate of expenses,
120, 171.
on lord North's conciliatory motion,
121,
to revise the journals of Congress,
124,144, 145, 192,457.
for collecting lead and making salt,
134.
on the receipt and disposition of gun-
powder, 139, 149.
for supplying the army with medi-
cines,140. (See Medical Committee.)
for settling the accounts of rifle com.
f *. 140, º: my
or supplying the army with provi-
º214, p
to consider the state of trade, 143,
146, i47, its
to purchase woollen goods, 143,150.
of Claims, 144, 240. (See Claims.)
to confer with general Washington,
145, 147, 162 to 165.
for intercepting two vessels belonging
to the enemy, 148, 149:T
on the subsistence of officers, &c. 152.
for fitting out armed vessels, 154, 159,
(See JNaval Committee.)
on property seized and destroyed by
the ememy, 156.
on an application from Nova Scotia,
61, 171,
another appointed, 207. (See Ma-
rine Committee.)
on the defence of New-York, 218,
224, 225.
for supplying troops ordered to Ca-
mada, 230, 232, 292,298,300,307,
336.
on the defence of the colonies, 233,
237, 298.
to prepare instructions to recruiting
officers, 234, 239.
on the purchase and casting of cam-
non, 236. (See Cannon Commit-
tee.
Old Brown of South-Carolina to
engage seamen, 238, 240.
on the trade of the colonies, 239, 256.
on a just tribute of gratitude to the
memory of general Montgomery,
244, 247.
to prepare a letter to the inhabitants
of Canada, 245, 246.
for establishing a war office, 246,
289, 321, 370. (See Board of War
and Ordnance.)
to prepare an address to the inhabi-
tants of the colonies, 246, 264.
for fortifying Hudson river, in New-
York, 248,285.
on the payment of New-Jersey and
Pennsylvania troops, 248.
on Indian affairs, 248, 330, 331, 341,
403, 472, 481.
on inlistment of apprentices, and per-
sons in debt, 249, 251, 252.
on exportation of naval stores, *:::
to form the middle and southern colo-
mies into departments, 263, 267,
274, 275.
for subsisting troops in N. York, 263.
for superintending the treasury, 267,
273, 301, 302. (See Treasury Of.
fice of Accounts.)
vi
INDEX.
Committee for promoting the manufacture of
muskets and bayonets, 273, 281,
, 354, 386.
on permits to, and destination of ves.
sels, 274, 278.
on the state of the colonies in the
southern department, 282, 298,
on the expenses of the war for the
year 1776, 284.
to superintend the printing of the
journals of Congress, 294.
n fortification of ports for the pro-
tection of cruisers, 297.
on the sale and consumption of teas,
308, 315.
on damages in certain cases of cap-
tures, 317, 321, 335,354,463.
on the state of the eastern depart-
ment, 328,340, 341.
on counterfeited bills of credit, 332,
368, 385.
for raising ten millions of dollars, 335,
on New Hampshire grants, 337, 360.
to inquire into the conduct of commo-
dore Hopkins, 337.
discharged, and referred to Marine
committee, 408, 431.
for exchange of seamen, 338, 340.
on resolutions of the convention of
South Carolina, 349, 358, 367.
for supporting the American cause in
Canada, 354, 355, 356,360, 361.
to concert a plan of military opera-
tions, 357, 359, 360, 361 to 364.
on supplies and intelligence to the
enemy, 365, 379, 385, 426,450.
directed to revise the rules and
articles of war, 374, 416, 435.
for establishing expresses between
the several posts, 365.
on a cartel between general Arnold
and captain Foster, 376, 403 to
406, 427.
to prepare a declaration of indepen-
dence, 369, 391, 394 to
396,
a form of confederation,
408,
a plan of treaties with for-
eign powers, 370, 416,
418, 457, 460.
on the defence of Georgia, 375, 399.
for exchange of prisoners of war,
376, 383,385, 402, 418, 420.
on rules and regulations for Congress
during debates, 383, 403, 415.
on a provision for disabled soldiers
and seamen, 383,454,455.
on the causes of miscarriages in Ca-
mada, 385, 400, 417, 427,468, 508.
to prepare a device for a seal of the
mited States, 397, 450.
on a plot for liberating prisoners of
war, 407.
for augmenting the flying camp, #}
on confiscation of enemies' property,
415,417,423.
on a proposal of the President of
South-Carolina, 423,468, 508.
on the state of North-Carolina, ;
for encouragement of Hessians, &c.
to leave the British service,436,443.
on the piratical seizure of American
vessels, 450,
Committee on places where prizes are to be sent,
451.
for regulating the post-office, and es-
tablishing advice boats, 460, 461,
464,
of conference with lord Howe, 466,
13,477.
on an appeal in the case of the sch’r
Thistle, and cargo, 470, 499, 500.
to inquire into the conduct of W. Liv-
ingston, deputy com-
missary general, 471.
state of the army in
New-York, 494, 505.
to provide clothing, &c. for the army,
494, 495, 497, 498, 513.
on an appeal in the case of the ship
Elizabeth, 502, 515.
to prepare a plan for a military acad-
emy at the army,
* 503.
for providing car-
riages, 504, 512.
the form of an oath
for officers of the
army and mavy,
511, 514
of Ways and Means to supply the
Treasury, 517, 535. 550, 551, 552.
on the disposition of negroes taken
by vessels of war, 517.
on an appeal in the case of the ship
Charming Peggy, 521.
on the capture id condemnation of
prizes, 521.
of intelligence, 522.
for regulating the Treasury Board,
522, 582,
to engage wharf builders, 525, 528,530.
on resolutions of Maryland, relative
to quota of troops, 527, 533.
on monopolizers of articles necessary
for the army, 530.
on despatches stolem from Tim. Dod,
531, 534, 556, 562, 578.
for suppressing internal enemies, and
preventing intelligence to others,
534.
om an appeal in the case of the sloop
Betsey, 541, 554.
for restricting Suttlers to the army,
543.
to conſer with general Washington,
558,
to reinforce the American army, 558.
on an appeal, Levin Jones vs. Śloop
Vulcan, 562. -
on the state of the army, 562, 563,
583, 584, 585.
on the plan of an artillery yard, 563.
on capitulations entered into by ma-
jors Sherburne and Butterfield, 564.
on a proper method for establishing
and training cavalry, 565.
to prepare an address to the imhabi-
tants of America, 574, 576.
to transact special business of Con-
gress at Philadelphia, 580.
to prepare a plan for conducting the
executive business of Congº
583.
Commons of Great-Britain, their conciliatory
proposition, 72,
* ? } *
their ºve
Comstock Adam, lieut. colonel, 468.
INDEX.
vii
—i.

Confederation, form of, to be prepared,
408,420,422,424, 425,430,434,435,436
Congress, the first, meet at Philadelphia, 1.
elect their President, 1, 39.
Secretary, 1.
establish rules for their government, 7.
approve the proceedings of the inha-
Bis of Suffolk, Mass. 14.
advise merchants to suspend orders
for goods, 14.
their address to the king of Great-
Britain, 16, 38, 39, 46 to 49.
their letter to gen. Gage, 17, 18, 19.
their declaration of rights, 19 to 22.
their address to the people of Great-
Britain, 19, 23, 26 to 31.
their address to the mhabitants of the
colonies, 19,23, 31 to 38.
their non-importation agreement, &c.
23 to 26.
their resolve respecting the trial of
persons beyond sea, 38, 39.
their opinion relative to the meeting
of another Congress, 39.
their letter to the colonies of St.
Johms, &c. 39.
their acknowledgments to friends in
England, 40.
their address to the people of Quebec,
40 to 45.
their vote of thanks to the Assembly
of Pennsylvania, 45.
dissolved, 45.
the Second, meet at Philadelphia, 50.
elect their President and Secretary,
g 50, 72.
their recommendation to the inhabi-
tants of New-York, 70.
consider the state of America, 71, 72,
73, 77, 78,79, 82, 83.
resolve on a non-importation to colo-
nies not represented in Congress,
71.
establish rules for their own govern-
ment, 71.
resolve to put the colonies in a state
of defence, 71, 72, 73.
direct the militia of New-York to be
armed and trained, 73. ,
their letter to the inhabitants of Ca-
mada, 74, 75, 76,
resolve to defend Ticonderoga and
Crown Point, 77.
their address to the Assembly of Ja-
maica,"9, 121, 122, 123.
advise the convention of Massachu-
setts, 80.
recommend the collection of saltpetre
and sulphur, 81.
* * general fast, 81, 82,
286, 287, 574, 576,577.
direct ten companies of riflemen to
be raised, 82.
fix the pay of officers and º 82,
4, 129, 1
appoint a general and commander in
chief, 83.
authorize the appointment of other
officers, 84. }
order troops to New-York, 85.
resolve to support general Washing-
tom, 85.
order troops to Boston, 86.
their first emission of bills of credit,
88.
conciliate the friendship of the in:
dians, 98,
Congress, their public declaration, 100 to 103.
their second petition to the king of
Great-Britain, 104 to 106.
- their second address to the people of
Great-Britain, 106 to 111.
their letter to the lord mayor of Lon-
don, 111.
their letter to Richard Penn, and
other agents in England, 112.
establish lndian departments and a
point commissioners,113 to 117,121.
encourage the importation and manu-
, facture of saltpetre, 118, 155, 168,
172, 173,273.
increase the American army, 123,
151,153, 163, 164, 165, 203, 217,
218, 225, 233, 242, 250, 298, 3
346, 362, 363, 389, 390, 399,
430, 476.
authorize the emission of more bills
of credit, 123.
establish a general post office, 124.
a general hospital, 124.
their address to the people of Ireland,
125 to 129.
fix the quota of each colony, 130.
their opinion on lord North's concilia-
tory proposition, 131.
their explanatory resolve relative to
non-importations, &c. 135.
their decision in the case of two car-
goes imported into Georgia, 141.
endeavor to intercept two British ves.
sels bound to Canada, 148, 149.
Y order gold and silver coins to be col-
lected, 149, 243,281, 308, 331.
recommend the arrest of suspicious
persons, 149.
authorize the fortification of Hudson
river, 150, 169,227, 232, 248,266,
285.
fit out cruisers, 154.
direct an estimate to be made of da-
mage done by the enemy, 156.
their resolves respecting trade, 160,
161
supply the northern army with cloth-
ing,
their instructions to the convention of
New-Hampshire, 162,
their resolves on the disputes between
‘Pennsylvania and Connecticut, 163,
211, 317.
authorize the defence of South-Caro-
lina, 165, 380.
establish packets, 176.
supply Bermuda with provisions, 178,
179.
the Indians, 180, 181.
their regulations relative to captures,
`s 183, 184.
establish rules and regulations for the
navy, 185 to 191.
issue more bulk of credit, 195, 198.
their recomméidation to Virginia,
f 197,
forbid the presentation of petitions
separately, by the colonies, 197,
their reply to a proclamation of the
king of G. Britain, 199, 200, 201.
urge the eastern colonies to call out
their militia, 201.
fix the pay of navy officers, 203.
augment the mavy, 206.
engage to repay New-York and Penn-
sylvania gunpowder and arms bor-
rowed, 210
viii
INDEX.
Congress, their resolves on the redemption of
bills of credit, 215, 216, 317.
their resolves on the arrest of conti-
mental soldiers for small debts, 216,
221.
direct a statement to be made of im-
ports and exports, 216, 217.
direct six battalions to be raised in
Virginia, 217, 218.
permit exports of produce in return
for salt, 218.
their instructions to Virginia, and
other southern colonies, 220.
furnish New-Jersey with arms and
military stores, 221.
their resolves respecting persons dis-
affected to the American cause,
222, 224, 225, 259, 381.
recommend an interchange of mutual
good offices, 223,
their opinion relative to the barbar-
ous conduct of the enemy, 223.
direct an additional battalion to be
raised in Pennsylvania, 225.
direct an emission of money, in ex-
chânge for torm and defaced bills,
their resolves in the case of James
Lovell, 227.
determine the shares of prizes in
cases of captures, 228.
order troops to be sent to Canada,
229, 230, 241, 242, 243, 250, 251,
255, 362.
order three companies for defence of
Accomac and Northamptom coun-
ties, in Virginia, 230.
direct the ſortification of the Nar-
rows, at the entrance of New York,
232.
their resolve respecting attempts to
depreciate the continental curren-
cy, 234.
order cannon to be cast and pur-
chased, 236, 269, 270.
order another battalion to be raised
in North-Carolina, 237.
authorize the pay-master general to
draw bills on the President of Com-
gress, 238.
determine the wages of seamen in
South-Carolina, 240.
indemnify col. Hazem for his losses,
244, 283.
order colonel Maxwell's battalion to
be furnished with arms, &c. 247,
253.
honor the memory of º Mont-
gomery, 244, 247, 259,269.
direct an inquiry into the conduct of
general Prescot, 247,251, 253,255.
direct the fortress at ficonderoga to
be repaired, 247.
direct the immediate defence of the
city of New-York, 248.
regulate and establish indian trade,
49, 250,
forbid the inlistment of apprenº
decide on the memorial of Keppele
and Steinmetz, 254.
encourage suttlers to attend the army
in Canada, 256, 268.
direct paroles of captured officers,
257; form of,258.
decide on the memorial of Sansom,
Murray, & Co. 260.
/
Congress order the purchase of saltpetre and
the manufacture of gunpowder, 260,
encourage the importation of naval
stores, 262, 263.
direct the middle and southern colo-
mies to be formed into departments,
263, 267.
direct a Treasury Office to be esta-
blished, 267,273, 301, 302. (See
Treasury Office of Accounts.
direct a further emission of bills of
credit, 267,270, 271, 282.
forbid plumder by the American º
direct artificers to be sent to Canada,
267.
direct troops in New-York to be fur-
mished with rations and fuel, 268.
direct gunpowder to be sent to gene-
ral Washington, 270.
prohibit the sailing of vessels loaded
for Great-Britain, &c. 274; re-
straint taken off, #8.
direct the distribution of prisoners of
war, and the taking of paroles, 275.
permit Mons, Marmajou to export
produce, 275.
repay gunpowder borrowed of North-
Carolina, 275.
direct steel to be sent to Albany, 275,
2
direct medicines to be purchased, 277.
direct general Lee to take command
in the southern department, 277.
their orders to brigadiers general
Armstrong, Lewis, Howe, and
Moore, #.
direct ſº Thomas to take com-
mand in Canada, 279.
direct an inquiry into the causes of
imprisonment of officers, &c. 281.
for bid the inlistment of Indians with-
out consent of their chiefs, 281.
direct militia to be called out for de-
fence of New-York, 286,
direct the troops destined for Canada
to proceed on their march, 286.
authorize the fitting out of private
armed vessels, 296, 297, 304,305,
their vote of thanks to general Wash-
ington, &c. 297, 298.
their regulations rººting imports
and exports, 307, 308.
rohibit the importation of slaves, 307.
instruct the commissioners for Indian
affairs, 308, 310, 311.
instruct the Convention, or council of
safety of Virginia, 308.
direct a list of prispners of war to be
transmitted to each colony, 309.
their resolves respecting the mainte-
mance and security of prisoners of
war, 313
their resolves relative to trade, 313.
their resolves relative to the sale and
consumption of teas, 315
their resolves relative to the pay and
subsistence of Pennsylvania º
G
authorize the building of galleys, 316 .
347, 399.
authorize the persons and papers of
Robert Eden and Alexander Ross
to be seized and secured, 318.
their instructions to the agent for Ins
dian affairs, 321, 322.
INDEX.
IX
Congress, their instructions to the commission-
ers sent to Canada, 323, 324.
direct a strict observance of military
discipline, 324, 480.
direct a settlement of accounts of the
militia ordered to New-York, 328.
their decision in the case of James
Easton, 329.
forbid traders to go into the Indian
country, without license, 330
modify and explaim the ninth article
of the non-importation assºciatiº
1.
direct the restoration and disposition
of vessels, &c. left by the enemy at
Boston, 331, 334.
direct the arming, of the Delaware
battalion at Lewistown, 333.
direct ten millions of dollars to be
raised, 335.
direct treaties to be held with Indian
tribes, 335, 341, 374.
direct an inquiry into the conduct of
commodore IIopkins, 337.
direct a farther emission of bills of
credit, 338, 353.
direct monthly returns of the number
and state of the army, 339, 365.
recommend governments to be esta-
blished by the colonies, 339.
establish a hospital in Virginia, 347.
increase the pay of deputy engineers,
their regulations respecting prisoners
of war, 349, 350, 351.
their decision in the case of the sloop
Sally, and cargo, 351, 354.
determ me to support the war in Ca-
mada, 356.
regulate the price of salt, 360, 574.
take further measure for the defence
of New-York, 361.
direct militia to be called out to re-
inforce the army, 362, 363, 398,399.
establish a flying camp, 363.
establish a Board of War and Ord-
nance, 370, 371. (See Board of
War and Ordnance.)
order general Gates to take command
in Canada, 376.
prohibit officers to Suttle, or sell to
soldiers, 377.
direct supplies to be sent to Canada,
377, 378.
direct the property of enemies to be }.
confiscated and sold, 378.
direct clothing to be furnished the
army, 382.
direct an inquiry into the conduct of
officers in Canada, 385
direct an inquiry into causes of mis-
carriages in Canada, 385.
their declaration of independence,
394,395, 396.
their resolves on the surrender of the
Cedars, 405,406.
regulate the hospital department, 411,
412
approve of gº Washington's re-
jection of a letter improperly ad-
dressed from lord Howe, 413.
establish new rules and orders for
their own government, 415.
encourage Hessians, &c. to leave the
British service, 442, 456.
censure the conduct of commodore
Hopkins, 445,
WOL. As 74
º
*
-->
Congress decide on the punishment of spies, 450.
determine on conditions of proposals
for peace, 466.
determine on the continuance of the
army in New-York, 470.
direct the return of arms and other
property, 474,475.
direct eighty-eight battalions, to serve
during the war, 476.
determine the quota of each state, 476.
promise lands to officers and Priº
prohibit officers from holding more
than one commission, 479, 480.
their resolves relative to Indian affairs,
prohibit grants of land claimed under
assignments, 482.
establish mew articles of war, *:
take measures to remove complaints
in New Jersey, 494.
order troops to be sent to fort Montgo-
mery, 494, 495.
resolve to defend the highlands of
New York, 495.
direct a supply of provisions and medi-
cines for the northern army, 495.
grant a passport to the master of the
schooner Thistle, 500.
their resolve respecting deserters from
the Pennsylvania line, 501,
borrow five millions of dollars, 505,
549, 550.
authorize the arming and equipping of
a frigate and two cutters, 506.
direct estimates of prizes to be made,
5
encourage officers and soldiers to
engage in the army, 508, 509.
direct a fortification at the entrance of
Cape Fear river, 531.
their resolve relative to pendents
worn by private armed vessels, &c.
531.
their resolve relative to monopolizers
of clothing, &c. 534, 560
authorize a lottery for raising money,
535, 551, 552.
authorize a new emission of bills of
credit, 535.
take measures for reinforcing the
army, 536.
their resolve relative to the settlement
of claims, 537, 538.
their resolve relative to the convey-
ance of despatches, 538.
their resolve relative to the disposi-
tion of stores taken on the Sorel
river, 539.
recommend to New-Jersey to stop
communications with the enemy,543.
modify their resolutions for raising
eighty-eight battalions, 545, 546.
direct the prosecution of capt. Timo-
thy Pierce, 547.
take measures for defence of Phila-
delphia, 547
decide on the comparative rank of
naval and military officers, 549.
fix the pay of officers, &c. of the navy,
their instructions to North-Carolina,
550.
direct returns of rations to be made 554.
their regulations in cases of disabled
soldiers, 554.
&
INDEX.
Congress direct magazines of military stores,
provisions, &c. 555,
urge the states to complete their le-
vies, 555.
consider the state of the army, 557,
558,
their direction to commissaries, 558.
their resolve respecting lands and
expenses of the war, 559.
meet at Baltimore, in Maryland, 578,
appoint a committee to transact spe-
cial business at Philadelphia, 580.
their resolve respecting prisoners of
war at Baltimore, 581.
direct vouchers to be taken for pay-
ments to militia, 581.
their instructions to New-Hampshire,
Massachusetts, and Connecticut,
582
grant discretionary powers to general
Washington, 584,585.
direct a farther emission of bills of
credit, 585.
Connecticut, delegates from, 1, 50, 237.
to re-inforce the garrisons of
Crown-Point and iconderº
7
N
j
e
to collect saltpetre and sulphur, 81.
troops ordered to New-York and
Boston, 85,86.
urged to complete their levies, 120.
disputes between Pennsylvania and,
163, 210, 211,317.
forbid to settle lands in femsylva.
nia, 211.
to raise a battalion for the defence
of Canada, 230, 242.
A to fill up, blank commissions for
field and other officers, 243.
to raise their proportion of sixteen
regiments,250.
to raise an additional battalion, 346.
Connecticut militia ordered to New-York and
Canada, 362, 363.
- quota of eighty-eight battalions, 476.
money advanced to, 135, 145, 243,
279, 313, 353, 376, 576.
Commolly, major, taken prisoner, 193.
confined at Philadelphia, 202, 300.
allowed to walk in i. gaol-yard, #.
sent to Baltimore, 578.
Mrs. provision made for, 401.
Continental currency, how to be sumk, 130, ;
J.
form of the bills, 88, 198,
resolve for the support of
its credit, 215.
troops and militia, to return arms,
and other property, 474, 475.
Cooke, governor of Rhode-Island, authorized to
purchase clothing, 527.
Cooper John, a delegate from New-Jersey, 269,
Copper at New-London, Connecticut, how dis-
posed of, 451.
to be purchased, 451.
Corn St. Luke, excepted from the general re-
leasement of Canadian prisoners, 513. "
Courtlandt Philip, lieut. colonel, 281.
Cox and Furman, money paid to, 258.
Cozneau Isaac, captain of a ſrigate, 319.
Craig Thomas, lieut. colonel, 470.
Crawford, captain, his application refused, 397
illiam, lieut. colonel, 263.
promoted, 512. *
Credentials, delegates appear and produce their,
1, 9, 22, 50, 51 to 54,67, 68, 69, 86, 87, 136,
137, 138, 141, 152, 253, 259, 325, 348, 390,
415, 418, 457, 536, 537, 553, 569,577, §
Crown-Point and Ticonderoga, measures for the
defence of, 77, 88.
Cº.; George, sent to New-York, on pa-
\ role, 201.
*
D.
Dallam, Richard, deputy pay-master general,414.
money advanced to, 428, 459,
467, 519, 543, 547, 558, #
577.
Dartmouth college, in New-Hampshire, pro-
ceedings respecting, 310,481.
Davidson William, major,336.
Davies William, money advanced to,480.
appointed deputy muster-mas-
ter general, 507.
resigns, 518.
Davis Benjamin, promoted, 226.
William, major, 336.
Dawsom Levi, major, 336.
Dayton Elias, colonel, 260.
I}eane Silas, a delegate from Connecticut, 1, 50.
ames, Indian interpreter, 181.
money advanced to, 181.
De Bois Pierre François, brevet major, 508.
Bebts, soldiers not to be arrested for trifling,216.
Decatur Stephen, permitted to export ſº
Declaration of rights, 19 to 22.
On ta º arms, 100 to 103.
on the king's proclamation, 199,
200,201.
of independence, 394, 395, 396.
Deer skins to be purchased, 458.
Defence of the colonies, measures taken for, 71,
72, 73,74, 118,119.
of Crown-Point, 77.
Deficiency of arms to be supplied, 293.
De Haas John Philip, colonel, 245. *
Dehart John, a delegate from New-Jersey, 1 § ;
26 tº.
resigns his seat, 194.
William, major, 167.
Delaplace, captain, his case considere
Delaware, delegates from, 1, 52, 568.
to collect saltpetre and sulphur, 81.
to raise one battalion, 203.
field officers of, 241,
militia for the flying camp, 363.
measures taken for the defence of,
battalion ordered to New-Jersey, Ašš.
quota of eighty-eight battalions, 476.
money advanced to, 262, 295,438.
river, disposition of naval brº
7.
Delegates assembled in Congress, 1, 50, 136.
produce their credentials, 2 to 7, 9,
50 to 54, 136, 137, 138, 141, 152,
194, 253, 259, 276, 325, 343, 348,
390, 415, 418, 457, 536, 537, 553,
568, 569, 577, 578, 579.
may frank letters, 171.
not to be absent without leave, 177,415,
Denning Wm., commissioner for settling ac-
counts, 417.
Department, three additional battalions to be
raised in the eastern, 844.
i
INDEX.
xi
Bepartments, middle and southern colonies
formed into,263,267,274,275.
Depositions relative to the battle at Lexington,
Massachusetts, 58 to 66.
Deputy pay-master general appointed, 370, 519.
money advanced to,
5
S muster-master general, 402, 507,541.
commissary general, in Virginia, to
! make contracts, 523.
Deserters, penalties on those who harbor, 165.
compensation allowed for apprehend-
ing, 165.
fr; the Pennsylvania lime, proceed-
& ings respecting, 501.
Diamond ring, case of Mr. Ánstruther's, 456.
Dickinson John, a delegate from Pennsylvania,
g 22, 50, 568.
Disabled soldiers and seamen, provision for,454,
- 455, 554.
5.º. in the army to be enforced, 324, 480.
Dod Timothy, despatches stolen from, 531.
confined in gaol, 534.
released, 578.
Doorkeeper and messenger to Congress ap-
pointed, 8, 581. *
Doors of Congress to be shut during business, 7,
55
Bouglass, commodore, to take command on the
iakes, £99. w
Douw Volkert P., appointed commissioner for
Indian affairs, 117.
Doyle John, money advanced to.
Drafts on the Treasurers. (See JMoney.)
Draper, midshipman, offered in exchange for
captain Budden, 359.
Druggist appointed in Philadelphia, 449. *
Drummond, lord, letters from, 457.
Duane James, a delegate from New-York, t, 50.
Dubois Lewis, major, to be provided for, 384.
promoted, 386.
officers of his battalion,
387.
Duche, rev. Mr. opens Congress with prayers,
8, 50.
to preach Mr. Randolph's fu-
neral sermon, 157.
on the general fast,
118.
appointed chaplaim to Con-
gress, 402.
resigns, 522; thanks of Con-
gress to, 522.
his acknowledgments, 532.
Dugan Jeremiah, appointed major, with the rank
of lieut. colonel, 299.
money advanced to, 274, 299.
Dunlap James, major, 233.
Dunmore, lord, his conduct in Virginia repre-
sented, #.
contravenes the non-importation
agreement, 193. po z -
his arbitrary proceedings to be
resisted, }}
intercepted letters from lord
Howe to, 419.
Durham Lewis, appointed surgeon, 271.
Dyer Eliphalet, a delegate from Connecticut, 1,
º tº º y
colonel, his account for medicines settled,
203.
Thomas, major, 441.
E.
Eastern department, three additional battalions
to be raised in the,
Easton James, proceedings relative to, 328, 329.
money advanced to, 329, 430.
Eden Robert, his person and papers to be seized
and secured,318.
intercepted letters to, from lord
Howe, to be published, 417.
Edwards Timothy, commissioner for Indian
affairs, f81.
Edy, Mr. money advanced to, 329.
Election of persons to places of profit, how de-
termined,365.
Ellery Wm, a delegate from Rhode-Island, 343.
Elliot Thomas, lieut. colonel, 263.
promoted, 512.
Ellis Richard, agent of prizes, 324.
Elizabeth, brig, appeal in the case of, 471, 502,
507, 515, 516, 517.
Elizabethtown, New-Jersey, communication
with the enemy, by way of, *
Elmer Jonatham, a delegate from New-Jersey,
569,
Fairlamb Samuel, money advanced to, 264, §:
A. & 00
Falmouth burnt, 160.
Fanny, brigantime, to be sent to sea, under con-
voy, 410.
Fast, days recommended for a general, 81, 82,
286, 287, 574, 576, 577,
Faulkner William, paroled, 512.
ay, Dr. his conductim quired into, 427.
Feltham Jocelyn, permitted to go to Eurºpe,
3. i4.
Emissions of bills of credit, 87, 88, 121, 123, 195,
227,270,335, 338, 353, 420,441, 585.
Endeavor, sloop, and cargo, restored, 408.
Engineers for the southern department appoint-
ed., 300, 301.
Eppes Frank, appointed major, 263.
promoted, 288.
Erwin Matthew, Q money advanced to, 379, 478,
Robert, 517, 560.
Evans John, a delegate from Delaware, 568.
George amd š. money advanced to,
3 ***** *
Exchange of prisoners of war, 195,379, 420,433,
465, 500, 512.
Executive business of Congress, plan to be pre-
pared for conducting the, 583. e
Exportations to Quebec, Nova-Scotia, &c. probi-
bited, 71.
of maval stores for the public ser-
vice, 256, 262.
*. of salted beef and pork, disallowed,
373, 587.
of staves, and other lumber, except
to G. Britain, &c. permitted, 588,
F.
Fentom John, obtains leave to go to Great Bri-
taim or Ireland, 141, 142.
Fermoy, Chevalier Roche, appointed brigadier
general, 539.
money advanced to, 543.
ordered to join gen, Wash-
ington, 560.
Field officers of battalions appointed, 167, 182,
223, 226, 233,241, 245, 260,263,
280, 288,299, 336,419, 426, 440,
468, 470, 512, 566.
.*
xii
INDEX.
--A
Franchessin Jaque Antoine, lieut. colonel, 418.
Francis Turbot, commissioner for Indian affairs,
117
Franklin Benjamin, a delegate from Pennsylva-
mia, 50, 418.
ap ointed commissioner for
ndian affairs, 117.
appointed post-master gene-
ral, 1
obtains leave to land his
books, papers, &c. 139.
money advanced to, #.
8
to pay bills drawn by Geo.
organ, 393.
William, to be examined, 381,
sent to Connecticut, on pa-
role, 384,
intercepted letters to, 417.
offered in exchange for gene-
ral Thompson, 559.
commissary of prisoners, 195.
money advanced to, 416, 468.
| granted leave to go to Sew.
York, on parole, 528.
Frederick, committee of, money advanced to,
580.
Franks David S.
Freemason, schooner, permitted to sail, 461.
French officers ordered to places of destimation,
472.
Frigates, continental, their names and officers,
366, 367.
Fry Joseph, brigadier-general, 233.
his resignation accepted, 323,
G.
Finney William, deputy quarter-master sº
Fischer John, major, 280.
promoted, 384.
Fisheries. (See British Fisheries.)
Flemming Edward, deputy adjutantsenº
Fhints purchased, 198.
sent to the troops in New-York, 394.
to be manufactured, 397.
sent to general Washington, 437, 523, 526.
delivered to George Morgan, 472.
sent to general Gates, 474,526.
to general Schuyler, 523, 526.
Floating batteries on Lake Champlain, 586.
Floyd William, a delegate from New-York, 1,
Flying camp established, 363, 365, 393.
augmented, 410,419.
money sent for the use of, 409, 416.
Fº Nuhaniel, a delegate from New-Hamp-
Snire,
Fontaine M. le, money advanced to, 306.
JFort to be built at Savannah, and Sunbury,
in Georgia, 399.
at Wheeling, &c., offered to be taken on
continental establishment, 407.
on Mount Independence, 586.
Stanwix occupied as a post, 374.
Montgomery, troops, &c. ordered to, #.
Foster, captain, his message to general Armold,
404.
Foxcroft John, his application considered, 518.
Gadsden Christopher, a delegate from South-
Carolima, 1, 50.
appointed brigadier-ge-
meral, 475
Gage Thomas, British general, fortifies Boston,
letter to him from Congress, #
9
his letter to the President, 46.
Galleys to be built, 316, 347, 399.
Galloway Jos. a delegate from Pennsylvania, 1.
Gamble, captain, committed to gaol, 413.
inquiry into his conduct, 413.
Game Cock, privateer, commander of, to be pro-
secuted, 547.
Gamsevoort, major, 231.
Gardner Caleb, lieut. colonel, 468.
Gates Horatio, appointed adjutant-general, 85.
major-general, 346.
to take command in Canada, 376.
not vested with a superior com-
mand to general Schuyler, 401.
Georgia, º from the parish of St. Johns,
lm, O I.
accedes to the general association, and
appoints delegates to Congress, 120,
36, 348, 597, 578, 579.
delegates apply for advice respecting
two cargoes imported from Great-
Britain, #.
to raise three battalions, one of them
riflemen, 165, 39
two forts to be built and garrisoned ;
toº.
to assist South-Carolina, 427.
quota of j. ht battalions, 476.
money advanced to, 171, 401, 436,
457, 476,535, 575.
Serman battalion to be raised, 357, 379,390.
qfficers of,416,440,499, 532,554,
German battalion ordered to join gem. Wash-
ington, 494,560, 567.
Gerry Elbridge, a delegate from Massachusetts,
259.
Gibson John, appointed auditor-general, 309.
money advanced to, 443.
Gilmore Robert, apprehended and confined, 451.
. Goddard William, address to Congress from,
16.
Goforth William, major, 387.
Gold and silver coins to be collected, 149,
243, 281, 308, 331.
in the Treasury, account
of, to be rendered, 287.
bills of credit to be ex-
changed for, 216, 281,
327,353,370.
sent to Canada, and to
general Schuyler, 348.
inquiry into the relative
value of, 321,463.
medal, to be struck for general Washing-
g ton, 298.
Goldsborough Robert, a delegate from Mary-
land, 1, . 138.
Goodwin, captain, to repay money advanced to
him, 203.
Govert, Mons. money advanced to, 497.
Govet William, clerk to the auditor-general, 428.
his salary, 428.
money advanced to, 574.
Graham Richard, money advanced to, 391.
Grant, Mrs. Abi, permitted to return to Eng-
land, 354.
Great Britain, petitions to the king, and ad-
dresses to the people of, 16, 19,
23, 26 to 31, 100, 104, 105,
106 to 111.
| cmploys foreign mercenary troops
ploy § y §:
** *
INDEX.
xiii
Great-Britain, political connexion dissolved be-
tween the United Colonies ;
Greene Nathaniel, appointed eighth brigadier-
general,
promoted, 437.
Green John, major, 288, 440. *
Mountain boys to be employed in the
army, 88.
Gridley, Mr. appointed colonel of artillery, 142.
indemnified, 177
Grier James, money advanced to, 372.
Griffin Samuel, deputy adjutant-general, 417.
Griffith David, appointed chaplain and surº
John, money advanced to, 585.
*
to be furnished with blankets,
585.
H.
Hackinsack' river, communication by way&
Hall Carvill, money advanced to; 585.
John, a delegate from Maryland, 53, i38.
Lymān, a delegate from Georgia, 67, 136,
348, 57
IIalsey Jeremiah, his conduct inquired into,231.
entitled to arrears of pay, 469.
Halsted Matthias, appointed quarter-master,212.
Hancock John, a delegate from Masaº
50, 259
elected president of Congress, 72.
Ebenezer, appointed deputy pay-mas-
ter general,370.
to receive balance in the
hands of James Warren,
400. Heath William, fourth brigadier-general, 87.
money advanced to,370,445.
frigate to be fitted out, 520.
and Adams, taken by the privateer
Game Cock, 545.
cargo, how disposed of,
545, 5
2
Guillot Francis, permitted to fit out a priva-
teer, 501.
Gunpowder to be manufactured and imported,
118, 168.
account of, to be furnished, 133.
delivery and disposition of, 169, 170,
172, 180, 196, 210, 228, 235, 261,
265, 270, 275, 279, 284, 294, 300,
307, 315, 317, 319, 322, 325, 330,
332, 333,337, 339, 340, 311, 345,
356, 358, 369, 372, 373, 376, 383,
391, 399, 400, 428,429, 430, 408,
472, 474, 479, 494, 495, 504, 511,
513, 520, 588.
defects im, how rectified, 458.
inspector of, appointed, 459.
Gwinnett Button, a delegate from Georgia, 318,
579,
Hay, lieut. returns to England, on parole, 207.
Hazard John, proceedings of a court-martial re-
specting, 361.
Hazen Moses, captain, his losses to be ascer-
tained, 243,283, 284, 495.
promoted, 244.
money advanced to, 246, 495,
528, 535.
Heard, colonel Nathaniel, instruction of Com-
gress to, 225.
names of persons tak-
en into custody by,
256
|.
directed to furnish
ew-Jersey troops
with arms, 265.
Hand Edward, colonel, 280.
money advanced to, 334, 370.
Hanson John, commander of fortresses on Hud-
son river, pro tempore, 171.
Happy Return, brig, disposition of cargo, 519.
Hard money to be provided for secret services,
562.
Harnet Cornelius, agent for prizes, 324.
Harris Robert, money advanced to, 541.
Harrison Benjamin, a delegate from Virginia, 1,
B0, 137, 537.
junior, pay-master in Vir-
ginia, 265.
money advanced to,327,
391, 419, 525, 554.
Charles, colonel of artillery, 566.
Rºbert H. to have the rank of lieut.
colonel, 365. *.
Hart John, a delegate from New Jersey, 390.
Hartley Thomas, lieut. colonel, 233.
Harvey John, commissioner for Indian affairs,
341.
Haslet John, colonel, 241.
money advanced to, 333, 437.
ordered to station troops at Lewis-
º town, 398.
Hausicker, or Hausegger, Nicholas, major, 226.
promoted, 414.
money advanced to,
532,547,560.
Hawley Joseph, commissioner for 17
* 117.
Indian affairs,
promoted, 437.
Hepburn Stacy, permitted to export produce,262.
Hendricks James, major, 263.
promoted, 512.
Henry Patrick, a delegate from Virginia, 1, 71.
appointed commissioner for In-
dian affairs, 117.
declines, 140.
appointed colonel, 263.
declines acceptance, 288.
governor of Virginia, to send the
brigantine Fanny to sea, un-
der convoy, 410.
Herring John, a delegate from New-York, 15.
Hessians, &c. encouraged to leave the British
service, 436, 443.
Hewes Joseph, a delegate from North-Carolina,
y 7
Heyward Thomas, junior,a delegate from South-
Carolina, 325.
Hides and tallow to be preserved, 558.
Hillegas Michael, continental treasurer, 130.
to pay and appoint signers of
bills of credit,388, 582, 585.
additional allowance to, 434.
Holland Francis, money advanced to, 541.
Holmer Christian, major of artillery, 566.
Hooper William, a delegate from North-Caroli-
ma, 9, 50, 153.
Hopkins Stephen, a delegate from Rhode-Island,
* , 71, 343
Eseck, commander of the American
fleet, 213.
his conduct inquired into, 337,
ordered to repair to Philadel
and answer for his COIn
declines the appointment, 139.
;
la
uet,
#
requests a hearing, 432.
2°
xiw
INDEX.
**
Howe, lord, British admiral, his letter to general
Washington not received, 413.
a second letter from, 452.
intercepted letters from, to be pub-
lished, 417.
a message delivered by general Sul-
livan, from, 463,464.
committee of Congress to confer
with, 466.
* their report, 477,478.
Hudson river, to be fortified and obstructed,
150, 169, 227, 232, 248, 361,495, 513.
Hudson Jonatham, proceedings on his petition,
202,204,205.
Hughes Charles, permitted to go to the West-
Indies, 531.
James, interposition of Congress in the
case of, 316.
Daniel and Samuel, contract to fur-
mish cannon, 417.
money advanced to,
420, 502.
Hugomence John B. permitted to export pro-
duce, 282.
Humpton Richard, lieut. colonel, 412, 505.
Huntington Samuel, a delegate from Connecti-
cut, 237,
I.
Hopkins Eseck, makes his defence, 440; not sa-
tisfactory, 444.
censured by Congress, 445.
directed to repair to Rhode-
Island and take command,447.
Hopkinson Francis, a delegate from New-J “. y
appointed an agent for the
marine committee of Con-
gress, 557.
Horlock Samuel, permitted to go to Bostom, on
parole, 528.
Hornet & Wasp to take vessels under convoy,230.
Horses and carriages not to be unnecessarily
impressed, 512.
Hosmer Titus, a delegate from Connecticut,237.
Hospital, measures taken for the establishment
of a general, 120, 124.
director of, appointed, 125, 155.
in Virginia, 347.
department regulated, 413, 414, 510.
to make weekly returns to
Congress, 510.
House, lieut. his conduct inquired into, 427.
Houstom. John, a delegate from Geogº 136,
48,579.
Howe Robert, appointed brigadier-general, 277.
ordered to Virginia, º
Imbret Jean Louis, employed as an enginº
480.
Importations from Great-Britain and Ireland,
prohibited, 15, 23, 308.
of goods and stores, permitted,
23, 224.
of arms, saltpetre, salt, &c. en-
couraged, 118, 168, 216, 218,
262.
of slaves, prohibited, 307.
Imports and exports, regulations *;
* 307, 308.
º unnecessary, of horses and car.
riages, forbidden, §12.
Imprisonment of militia officers, &c. in Canada,
inquiry into the causes of, 281,
Independence first moved in Congress, 368.
further proceedings relative to,392,
, 394.
declaration of, 394, 395, 396.
to be proclaimed, 396.
Index to the journals of Congress to be m;
Indians, danger of a rupture with, in Yº 78.
efforts to obtain their flieſ. 98
speech to the six nations of, 114 to 117.
a treaty with them at Albany, 140.
ministerial agents endeavor to engage
them in the war, 215.
conference with, 213, 215, 293.
in the middle department to be sup-
plied, 310.
commissioners appointed for affairs of,
117, 120, 140.
establishment of a trade with, 249,250.
Cherokee, commit hostilities in South-
Carolina, 427,
hip, 3.
to,
‘.
ſ
Indians, commit murder in the neighborhood of
Pittsburg, 448.
Inhabitants, number of, in each colony, to be ta-
ken, 215.
Injunction of secrecy, 7, 55.
Innes James, major, 440.
Inspectors of F. 459, 463.
Instructions of Congress—
to merchants, 14.
to Massachusetts, 14, 18, 19.
to New-York, 80.
to New-Hampshire, 162.
to South-Carolina, 165, 166.
to the committee appointed to visit
the mouthern army, 169, 170, 171.
to Virginia, 197.
to commanders of private armed
vessels, 305,306.
to Maryland, in the case of Robert
Eden and Alexander Ross, 318.
to the agent for Indian affairs, 321.
to the commissioners sent to Cana-
da, 323, 324.
to the commissioners for settling
accounts, 444.
17. Intelligence conveyed by alarm-posts, 150.
received of the enemy's fleet sailing
to the southward, 547.
Invalid corps to do garrison duty, 455.
Ireland, prohibition of exportations and import.
ations to and from, 15, 23.
address of Congress to the Pºlº of,
79, 121.
Irvine James, lieut, colonel, 182.
authorized to purchase clothing,267,
William, colonel, 233,
Irwin Matthew, money advanced to, 558,
Henry, lieutenant-colonel, 336.
J. \
|
Jamaica, address to the assembly of, #. 121, Jenkins, capt. Thomas, allowed to carry provi-
l te
Jay John, a delegate from New-York, 1, 69.
Jefferson Thomas, a delegate from Virginia, ;
j {) *
sions to Nantucket, 194, 197, 204.
capt. William, resigns his commis;
IND
EX.
w
-º-
Jewel Robert, appointed keeper of the new gaol
in Philadelphia, 418.
gives information to Congress,555.
money advanced to, 56
Johnson Thomas, jun. a delegate from Maryland,
8, 50,138, 415, 553.
Francis, lieut.colonel, 226.
Robert, money advanced to,423.
Martin, lieut. finds Mr. Anstruther's
diamond ring,446.
directed to return it, 446.
authorized to receive the pay
due to him, 447.
K.
Karanduan, or the Great Tree, Indian name for
the President of Congress, 369.
Karcher Ludwick, money advanced to, 431, 441.
Keppele and Steinmetz, their claim rejected;254.
King of Great-Britain. (See Great-Britain.)
Kinnear, capt. to repay money advanced to º:
l{insey James, a delegate from New-Jersey, 1, 50.
resigns his seat, 194.
Kirkland Samuel, Indian missionary, 174.
Moses, to be confined in gaol, 300.
makes his escape, 337.
;
;
|
L.
Johnston George; major, 512.
Jones Noble Winberly, a delegate from Georgia,
Willie, appointed commissioner for Indian
affairs, 121.
Josiah, lieut. to be exchanged, 435.
Journais of Congress to be revised and printed,
39, 124, 294,457, 500.
Judge Advocate, his pay, 142.
Juge Mr. permitted to export produce, 248, 249.
Junis James, (see James Innes.)
Kirkland Moses, proceedings on his escape, 340.
Kirmovan, chevalier, employed as engineer, 391.
I(nolton, major, promoted, 438.
Knox Henry, colonel of artillery, 177.
to ºf: the forts on Hudson ri-
ver, 197.
his pian for raising a bittalion of
artillery, approved, 423.
promoted, 584.
Kosciusko, Mr. his memorial presented, 461.
appointed engineer, 522, 523.
La Corn Luke, excepted from the general re-
leasement of Canadian prisoners, 513.
Lake Champlain, floating batteries to be built
Oil o
Lamb, captain, promoted, 231.
Gideon, major, 336.
Langdom John, a delegate from N ºw-Haº.
d 5
3 * * * *
appointed agent of prizes, 386. ,
Lands promised to foreign officers, on leaving the
British service, 456.
to officers and privates of the
American army, 476, 479.
not to beºned under claims of assign-
ment, 482. f
Lawson Robert, major, 263.
promoted, 440.
Lead to be searched for, and collected, 134.
to be imported, 178.
mines to be worked, 266, 363.
at Ticonderoga,account to be furnished,303.
in Virginia, to be sent to Philadelphia,
?
Lebanon, in Pennsylvania, prisoners of war es-
cape from, 381.
Lee Richard Henry, }* from Wir-
Charles, appointed second major-general,
& 85
Francis Lightfoot, ginia, 7, 50, 137,
138
directed to repair to Canada, and
take command there, 267,268.
the order countermanded, 275.
to take command in the southern
Lee Charles, arrives, and attends Congress, 507,
508
directed to repair to the camp at
Haerlem, 508.
momey advanced to, 508, 579.
inquiry into his treatment as prison-
er of war, taken by the enemy.
579.
Leonard, Abiel, money paid to,
Letters to General Gage, from the county of Suf-
folk, in Massachu-
setts, 13, 14.
from Congress, 17, 18,
to the colonies of St. John's, &c. 39, 40.
from General Gage to the President of
Congress, 46.
(circular,) from the %. in England,55.
from the provincial Congress of Massa-
chusetts, 56.
to the inhabitants of Canada, 74, 75,76.
to the lord mayor of London, 111
to the agents in England, 112.
from Bermuda, 138.
received during the recess of Congress,
to delegates and commanders in chief,
free of postage, 171, 172, 321.
intercepted, jº. published,205.
secrecy enjoined on others,
219.
of thanks to the general officers in the
northern army, 205.
to and from private soldiers, to be frank-
*. 277. * e(1, ZöI.
his plan, to purchase #3; in Vir- to and from the board of war, free of
ginia, approved, 347. 'º ostage, 469,
to order rations and foºd
lunteer cavalry, 347..."
to raise two companies of house
and ship carpenters, 347.
thanks of Congress to, 418.
ordered to repair to Philadelphia,
435.
ir Wo-
Lewis Andrew, brigadier general, 277.
* to take command in Virginia,277.
to send gumpowder to South-Ca-
rolina, 418,
to send two battalioms of troops
to New-Jersey, 419.
Morgan, deputy quarter-master sº
72.
Yvi
INDEX.
Lewis, Francis, money advanced to, 433,463.
Lewis-town, in Delaware, gunpowder and lead
sent to, 333. t
troops stationed at, 398.
Lexington, Massachusetts, depositions respect-
ing the battle at, 58 to 66.
L' Farque Pierre, permitted to export produce,
258, 259.
L' Fontaine, Mons. money advanced to, 300.
Library Company of Philadelphia, offer Con-
gress the use of their
books, 8.
vote of thanks to, 8.
Licenses to Indian traders, 330.
Lieutenants in marching regiments, pay of se-
cond, 146.
Lillington Alexander, colonel, 336.
Lippit Christopher, colonel, 468.
Lisle Romand de, major of artillery, 544, 545.
declines the appointment, and
requests to É. sent to gene-
ral Washington, 548.
Livingston Abraham, resigns his contract, ;
money advanced to, 562.
Philip, delegates from New-
Robert R. S. York, 1, 51, 52, 69.
William, a delegate from New Jer.
sey, 1, 52,269.
governor of New-Jersey, to
report respecting Priº
520.
James, colonel of a Canadian bat-
talion, 229, 443.
money advanced to, 439.
Henry B. honored by Congress, 205,
499.
promoted, 280.
*
Livingston, Walter, commissary for the New-
... York department, 118.
inquiry into the conduct of,
M.
his resignation accepted,374.
Loan Offices established, 505, 506.
\ commissioners to be appointed, 507,
539.
form and denomination of certifi-
cates, 505, 547, 549, 550.
Lockart Samuel, major, 336.
Logan, an Indian chief, extract from his *
Long Gabriel, money advanced to, 556.
Nicholas, deputy quarter-master general,
33
Long-Island, in New-York, battle with the ene-
my on, 459, 462.
exchange proposed of prisomers ta-
ken on, 500, 512.
Lottery, authorized by Congress, 535, 551, 562.
565, 572.
scheme and conditions of the, 551, 552.
managers appointed, 555, 558, 561.
Lovell James, taken prisoner by the enemy, 227.
governor Skene offered in ex-
change for, 227,423.
Lowry Thomas, commissary in New.jersey, 178,
202
to furnish supplies for colomei
Maxwell's regiment, 253.
money advanced to, 178, 233,
265,295, 322, 546.
Low Isaac, a delegate from New-York, 1.
Ludwig Charles, surgeon, 550.
Lund §). proceedings relative to, 80, 81, 99.
Lux William, agent of prizes, 324
Lynch Thomas, delegates from South-
jun. S Carolina, 1, 54, 326.
Mackenzie, Dr. authorized to
cines, 588.
Macpherson,
purchase medi-
captain, sent to camp, 156.
money advanced to, 156.
his application rejected, 408.
Macumber, ensign, the reasons for his acquittal
required, 502.
Magan Robert, colonel, 223.
Magazines to be established, 363, 580, 582.
Mamady, marquis, brevet major, 480.
money advanced to, 494.
Managers of 3 lottery appointed, 553, 561.
Mames Isaac, money advanced to, 421.
Manly, captain, takes a prize, 204.
\ to command a frigate, 319.
disposition of ordnance stores
* taken by, 378.
Manufactures, promotion of, recommended by
Congress, 293, 294.
Marine committee appointed, 207, 279, *
514.
references and directions to,
213,238, 367,382,387,407,
408, 441,453, 457, 465,466,
467, 495, 507,514,520, 521,
530, 543, 547,571, 578,588.
reports from, #13,'334,366,
386,407,421, 422,440,452,
457,459, 501, 511,520, 530,
540, 556. *
money advanced to, 457.
returned, 575.
Marines to be raised, 173.
officers of, appointed, 386,421,422.
Markham John, major, 512.
Marmajou Anthony, permitted to export pro-
duce, 275.
Marquisie M. La, money advanced to, 470.
Marquis of Kildare, brig, disposition of *:::::
6.
Marshall Thomas, major, 263.
promoted, 460.
Martin Alexander, colonel, 336.
Mr. intercepted letter from lord Howe to,
F7
417.
Maryland, delegates from, 1, 8, 50, 138, 415,
553.
to collect saltpetre and Sulphur, 81.
to raise two companies of riflemen,
82, 389.
permitted to export produce, 218.
quota of militia for the flying camp,
363
to raise four companies of Germans,
390.
instruct their delegates in Congress,
392.
to raise two battalions, 447.
troops, raised above its quota, to be
on continental establishment, 453.
*money advanced to, 274, 390, 402,
ºils 447, 452, 475, 559.
* * troops to be furnished with arms, 456,
*uota of eighty-eight battalions, to
serve during the war, 476.
Massachusetts, delegates from, 1, 50,253,259.
proceedings of several towns and
districts in, 9 to 14. '
proceedings of the provincial
Congress of, 56 to 67.
INDEX.
xvii
Wassachusetts, depositions relative to the battle
of Lexington, In, 58 to 66.
to collect saltpetre and sulph;
urged to complete their levies,120.
to raise their proportion of six-
teen regiments, 250.
to raise additional battalions, ;
five battalions in, to be recruited,
344
money advanced to, 196, 250,
333, 359, 558.
militia ordered to Canada and
New-York, 362, 363.
troops ordered to New-York and
Ticonderoga, 401.
quota of eighty-eight battaliº;
Mºssenback M. appointed engineer, 301.
Maxwell William, appointed colonel, 167.
* arms to be furnished his bat-
talion, 246.
promoted, 527.
Matlack Timothy, appointed assistant clerk to
Congress, 69.
to take charge of military
stores, 148.
to furnish New-Jersey bat-
talions with flints and º
~ to have sheet iron manufac-
tured into camp-kettles,
374.
Matrosses to be raised, 158,243.
M'Coy Eneas, colonel, 419.
money advanced to, 419,472.
M’Donald Allen, paroled, 402,463.
brigadier-general, to be ex-
changed for lord Stirling,
465, 466.
to be exchanged for no officer
under the rank of brigadier-
general, 503.
M’Donough Thomas, major, 295.
M’Dougal Alexander, colonel, 280.
M'Henry, Dr. recommended by Congress, 455.
M.Intosh Lachlam, appointed brigadier-geneº,
5.
M'Kean Thomas, a delegate from Delaware, !,
M. Kenzie, captain, paroled, 479. &
M’Knight James, his unauthorized conduct in
the case of the sloop Sally,
351.
to make restitution, 354.
#. John, major, 232.
'Whorter 'Alexander, money advanced tº
11
Meade George, & Co.
duce,
money advanced to, 470.
Measam George, commissary of clothing, 519.
Mease James, appointed commissary, 247.
money advanced to, 250,257, 262,
267, 283, 288, 300, , 332,
357, 400, 407, 429, 434, 443,
453, 463, 471, 503, 555, 569,
571, 580.
directed to supply continental
troops, 251,254, 262,288, 301,
357, 459, 460, 471, 494, 497,
498, 502, 505, 514, 531, 561,
567, 568, 569.
to audit accounts of Pennsylvania
militia, 497. “
ermitted to export ro.
; port p
VOI., I: 75.
Mease James, to pay Maryland militia of the
flying-camp, 569, 570. º
Medal, gold, to be struck for general Washing-
tom, 298.
Medical committee, appointed, 140,435.
references and directions to,
143, 144, 172, 378, 380,
401, 403, 429, 433, 476,
479, 481, 494, 495, 564,
567.
reports from, 408,449, 455,
563.
money advanced to, 457.
Melchior Isaac, insults the President of Con-
gress, 280.
his concessions, and dismissal
from farther attendance,281.
Mercenary troops engaged by the enemy, 349.
Mercer H. colonel, 263.
promoted, 366.
ordered to repair to New-York,
367
applies for arms and military
stores, 447.
to remove complaints in New-
Jersey, 494.
Meredith Jonathan, money advanced to.
Merchants to suspend orders for goods, &c. 14.
Middleton Henry, a delegate from South-Caro-
lina, 1, 54.
elected President of Con-
ress, 39.
Arthur, a delegate from South-Caro-
lina, 325,
Mifflin Thomas, a delegate from Pennsylvania,
1, 52.
appointed brigadier-generaß6
quarter-master gene-
ral, 503.
money advanced to, 361, 504,
519.
John, regimental pay-master, 464.
Military academy of the army, plan for, 503.
stores to be removed from Titº
measures for a supply of, 74, iig,
account of their importation
called for, 216, 217.
to be imported, 118, 363, 530.
sent to North-Carolina, 439.
to be furnished on requisition of
& ºn g . e. commanding officers, 502.
Militia officers in Canada, inquiry into causes of
imprisonment of, §§.
officers, on their march, and while in
Service, rations allowed to, 474.
rules for the regulation of the, 118, 119.
not to be called out without consent of
the º 201.
required to re-inforce the armies in Ca-
mada and New-York, 362,363.
of Pennsylvania, ordered for defence of
New-Jersey, 398.
discharged in New-Jersey, to be settled
with, 497.
Milligan James, commissioner of accounts, 425,
Minutes of the preceding day to be read every
morning, 207.
Mºſ Patrick, obtains leave to go to Eng-
and,
Money advanced to—
Commissioners for Indian affairs, 113,
* 180, 355,418, 481, 567.
William Thompsºn, 131.
the pay-master general, 134, 135, 138,
147,148, 175, 252,257,288,339,
381,450,469,470, 515, 558.
xviii TNDEX,
Money advanced to— Money advanced to—
Connecticut, 135, 145, 243, 279, 313.
53,376, 576.
Pennsylvania, 135, 171, 185, 217,
234, 242, 293, 390, 391, 454, 502,
550, 557, 560, 572, 582.
Committee of Claims, 144.
Committee to purchase clothing, &c.
150, 171,283, 325.
Mr. Tracy, 151.
T}eputy pay-master general, 155, 370,
428,431, 444, 445, 459, 463, 467,
519, 523, 534.
Commissary general, 156, 325, 379,
$546, 558, 562.
North-Carolina, 167, 247, 523.
Georgia, 171, 401, 437,457, 476, 537,
Committee to visit the northern *}.
172.
New-Jersey, 172, 246, 265, 574.
Samuel Kirkland, 174.
New-York, 134, 175, 243, 259, 268,
493, 501.
Thomas Price, 175, 579.
Thomas Lowry, 178, 233, 265, 295,
322, 546.
James Deane, 181.
Committee on saltpetre, &c. 182.
General Washington, for re-enlist-
ments, 193.
New-Hampshire, 196, 243, 353,435.
Massachusetts, 196, 353, 359, 558.
Carpenter Wharton, 203, 246, 274,
312,369, Aſº, sió, úſ.
Colonel Dyer, 203.
Rhode-Island, 206,463.
Naval Committee, 208, 252,257.
Capt. Motte, 209,210.
Spence and M. Whorter, 211.
George Wythe, 217.
Cols. Heard and Warterbury, 225.
Willing and Morris, 238,
M. Regonville, 239.
Colonel Moses Hazan, 246, 495, 528,
529, 535.
Lieut. col; Antil, 246, 569, 576, 588.
Dr. Franklin, 247.
Captain Nelson, 251.
James Mease, 257,262,275,300, 306,
314,332,407,429,434,443,453,459,
463, 471, 531,555, 569, 571, 580.
T}ohick Arundel, 259.
John Chapman, 262.
Delaware, 262, 295, 438.
Col. Bull, 262.
Virginia,263,298,327, 357, 568.
Maryland, 274, 390, 402,447, 452,
475, 559,
M. Dugan, 274.
Committee for purchase of arms,
&c. 281.
Samuel Fairlamb, 284.
General Schuyler, 288, 324, 352,
Col. Magaw, 289.
Col. Charles Stuart, 293.
Baron de Woedtke, 294.
Mr. Cole, 295. *
Commissioners sent to Canada, 297
, Mr. Walker, 297. t
William Barrel, 299.
Jeremiah Dugan, 299.
M. Belletre, 304.
Price and Haywood, 304, 314,
M. le Fontaine, 306.
Army in New-York, 308, 309.
Capt. White-Eyes, 311.
George Morgan, 311, 346,467, 481.
Mr. Price, 317.
Dr. Langdom, 322,
Robert Morris, 325.
Ephraim Blaine, 326, 362, 416, 528.
Paymaster in Winginia, 327, 391, 392,
4
19, 525.
James Easton, 329, 430.
Messrs. Edy and Beaudreau, 329.
George Evans, 332.
Col. Haslet, 333, 437.
Col. Hand, 334.
Committiee for casting cannon, &c.
344,479, 542, 572
General Mifflin, 361, 504, 519.
E. Hancock, deputy paymaster gene-
ral, 370, 445.
Capt. James Grier, 372.
George Evans, 373, 402.
South-Carolina, 383,563.
Richard Graham, 391, 392.
Col. Hugh Stevenson, 402.
Committee of secret correspondeº,
402.
of inspection for Cumber-
land county, Pennsyl-
vania, 416,429
Clement Biddle, 409, 559.
David S. Franks, 416, 468.
Col. M'Coy, 419, 472.
Daniel and Samuel Hughes, 420, 502.
Dr. W. Shippen, 425.
Richard Dallam, 428,459, 519, 543,
547, 558, 561, 577
John Pollock, 429.
Ludwick Karcher, 431,441,
Jonathan Trumbull, 431, 523.
Thaddeus Sturges, 431.
Francis Lewis, 433, 463.
Committee of Lancaster county,
Pennsylvania, 434, 462, 507.
Jonathan Meredith, 435.
James Livingston, 439.
Auditor §. 443.
Captain Whelper, 445.
Abiel Leonar º *
Commissioners for accounts of the ar-
my, 448.
Alexander Tod, 451.
Mark Byrd, 451.
P. Schuyler, 454.
Medical Committee, 457.
Marine Committee,457.
Captain Wade, 457.
Gustavus Risberg, 459, 523, 541
Charles Read, 467.
M. La Marquisie, 470.
George Meade & Co. 470.
Zebulon Butler, 471.
Robert Erwin, 478, 517, 560.
John Bonfield, 479.
Chevalier Vermonet, 480.
William Davies, 480.
Eleazar Wheelock, 481.
Messrs. Colerus, Mainedy, and Ver-
mejouz, 494.
Richard Peters, 528, 550.
Col. Buckner, 531.
Col. Scott, 532.
Col. Hausegger, 532, 547, 560,
Evans and Stretch, 532.
Acklam Bonfield, 534.
Col. Lawson, 540.
Capts. Holland, Harris, & Smith, 541.
George Gibson, 543.
Brig. general de Fermoy, 543.
Capt. Cardorp, 543.
INDEX.
xix
Money advanced to—
Gabriel Long, 556.
Matthew Irwin, 558.
Richard Bache, 559.
William Whitely, 563.
Col. Cadwallader, 563,567.
Robert Jewel, 567.
Col. Charles Šymes, 569.
William Govet, 574.
John Boyd, 580.
Committee of Frederick, Mayº,
580.
Col. Richardson, 580.
Thomas Nichols, 582.
James Nourse, 583.
John Griffith, 585.
Carvill Hall, 585.
Monopolizers of clotºng, &c. proceedings re-
specting, 530, 560.
Montgomery Richard, 2nd brigadier general, 87.
takes Montreal, 192.
promoted, 203.
allowed to purchase cloth-
- * * ing for the army, 203.
allowed table expen;
killed at Quebec,239,240.
his memory honored by
Congress, 244, 247, #.
John, commissioner for Indian af-
fairs, 397.
Fort, troops, &c. sent to, 494,495.
Montreal taken, 192. *
Indian goods purchased at, 335.
Monument to the memory of general Montgo-
mery, 247.
Moore, James, brigadier general, 277.
ordered to New-York, 465.
order suspended, 476.
N
Nagle George, major, 226.
Nancy, brigant. proceedings in the case of, 274.
Nantucket, proceedings relative to the island of,
76, 194, 197,204.
Nash Francis, colonel, 336.
Naval Committee, appointed, 154, 159.
to fit out armed vessels for de-
fence of Chesapeake Bay,
A. 193, 19
* to prepare commissions, 194.
to purchase stores, 198.
authorized to contract with
seamen, 207.
money advanced to, 161.
a new committee appointed,
207. (See Marine Com-
mittee.)
their accounts to be settled,479
Naval officers, appointed, 213,320,366, 367, 4:21,
440, 452, 457, 511.
force on the lakes considered, 435.
stores, may be imported, 262.
Navy, continental, formed, 184, 207.
rules and regulations of the,
185 to 191.
officers of the, 213, 320, 366,
367, 440, 452, 457, 511.
increased, 453, 556.
Navy agents, appointed, 546, 551.
Negroes taken by vessels of war, how disposed
f
OT, b I’l.
Nelson Thos. a delegate from Virginia, 137,458,
captain, money advanced to, 251.
Morgan John, appointed director general of the
hospital, 155.
memorial from, (See Petitions.)
to take cale of sick and wounded
officers and soldiers, 563.
George, appointed agent for Indian af-
Airs, 31
instructions of Congress to,321
money advanced to, 311, 346,
467, 481.
directed to purchase Indian
goods at .# 340,
his bills to be paid, 393.
his accounts referred to the
Treasury office, 446.
flints delivered to, 472.
Morris Robert, a delegate from Pennsylvania,418.
money advanced to, 325.
entrusted with special business of
Congress at Philadelphia, 580.
Lewis, a delegate from New-York, 69.
to act as commissioner of Indian
affairs, at Pittsburg, 140.
Anthony J. major, 182.
Morrison Samuel, allowance to, 459.
Morton John, a delegate ſron Pennsylvania, 14 ;
Motion in Congress not to be made after twelve
o'clock, 209 * e
Motte capt. prisoners under his care, disposed
of 209.
money advanced to, 209.
his guard provided for, 217.
Moultrie, col. Wm. thanks of Congress to, 418.
appointed Brigadier ge-
neral, 475.
Mount-Independence, a fort to be built on, 586.
Moylan Stephen, quarter-master general, 365.
resigns, 503.
Muskets to be purchased and manufactured, 281,
292, 354, 386,
Nesbit John M. agent of prizes, 324.
Nevelling rev. Mr. to be paid as chaplain, 529.
Newfoundland, exportations prohibited to, 71.
New-Hampshire, delegates from, 1, 50, 141,
276, 536.
to collect saltpetre and sul-
phur, 81.
urged to complete their levies,
120
instruct their delegates in
Congress, 155.
to raise one battalion, 230.
to fill up blank commissions,
243
to raise their proportion of
$ sixteen regiments, 250.
to raise an additional battalion,
militia ordered to Canada and
New-York, 362, 363.
money advanced to, 196, 243,
uota of eighty-eight bat-
Q talions, 4; ty-eig
New-Jersey, delegates from, 1, 50, 269, 390,
- 569
to collect saltpetre and sulphur, 81.
to raise three battalions, 151, 233,
field officers of, 167,260.
troops ordered to New-York, 172,
202, 285,363.
to be supplied with arms,
clothing, &c. 221, 253.
XX
INDEX.
wº
New-Jersey, money advanced to, 172, 246, 265,
* 574.
troops ordered to join general
ercer, 434.
quota of eighty-eight battalions, 476.
militia, ordered to be paid, 517.
required to stop communications
with the enemy, 543
Sundry inhabitants of, to be con-
fined in gaol, 57.1
Newton Downham, permitted to export provi-
sions, 192.
New-York, delegates from, 1, 9, 50, 69.
advice of Congress to, 70.
militia to be armed and trained, 73.
to collect saltpetre and sulphur, 81.
for the defence of, \
force ordere
123, 285, 363, 465.
applies for a loan of money—not
granted, 214.
to raise six battalions, 230, 241, 384.
field officers of, 231, 280,299.
approve the declaration of indepen-
dence, 410.
money advanced to, 175, 243, 259,
268, 493, 501.
quota of eighty-eight battalions, 476,
to raise an additional battalion, 566.
Nichols Thomas, money advanced to, 582.
Nicholson, colonel George, inquiry into his
conduct, 429.
John, major, 281.
Nixon John, brigadier-general, 437.
agent of prizes, 324,
navy agent, 546,
| Non-importation agreement, &c. resolved on
• 22, 23 to 26, 135.
North, lord, his conciliatory proposition, 72, 73.
endeavors to enforce it, 76, 77.
roceedings on, 121.
North-Carolina, delegates from, 9, 53, 152.
to collect saltpetre and sulphur,
safety of, considered, 89.
to raise a ſorce not exceeding
one thousand men, 89.
applies for money, 167.
battalions put on continental
establishment, 191.
permitted to export prod;
8
money ad anced to, 167, 217,
t 523
bills of the treasurer of, ordered
to be paid, 284.
to assist South-Carolina, 427.
to raise three companies of
rangers, 430.
two battalions ordered to New-
York, 465,
the order suspended, 476.
quota of eighty-eight battaliº;
476.
Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, troops
stationed in, 453.
Nourse James, money, advanced to, 585.
Joseph, assistant clerk to the Board of
War, 587.
Nova-Scotia, exportations prohibited to,71.
applies to join the association,
61, 171.
O.
Officers, to leave the service of Great Britain,
encouragement to foreign, 456.
excepting general, to be nominated by
the several states, 476 w
all to be commissioned by Congress,
4.76
*
to enforce the observance of exemplary
discipline, 480.
not to hold more than one commission,
479, 480, 517.
serving during the war, increase of their
pay, 508.
not to be allowed for arms lost, or taken
by the enemy, 517.
comparative rank of naval and military,
Orders on the Treasurers. (See JMoney.)
Ottendorf, captain, to have the rank of major,
571.
money advanced to, 574.
P.
Parole, form of, 258.
Parker Josiah, major, 263.
promoted, 512.
Richard, junior, major, 512.
Parsons Samuel H. brigadier-general, 437.
Passaick river, communication by way of, 434.
Patterson Samuel, supplies Congress with gold
and silver coins, 244.
John, adjutant, 220.
Oath, by way of test, mot to be exacted, 282.
to be taken by officers of the army and
navy, 511, 514, 525.
Offences committed in America, trial beyond sea
for, declared illegal and ". 38, 39.
Officers, to negociate bills of exchange, not al-
lowed to British, 78.
and privates of the American army,
their pay, 84, 129, 130.
oath of fidelity to be taken by cerº
having served, to be preferred in the
mew army, 164,
of the navy, names of, 213, 319, 320,
366, 367, 440,452, 511.
who served in Canada, provision #;
inquiry into the con-
uct of, 384.
prohibited from suttling or selling to
soldiers, 377
of marines, 386, 421.
Paca William, a delegate from Maryland, 1, 53,
138, 415,553.
Packets established, 176. ...
Paddock and Coffin, their petition rºjeij, 214,
221.
Paine Robert Treat, a delegate from Massachu.
setts, 1, 50, 259.
Painter fisha, major, 398.
his appointment objected to,
. |Ogden Matthias, lieut. colonel, 280.
72. Patton John, lieut. colonel, 336.
ordered to Philadelphia, 472.
Palfrey William, appointed pay-master genº,
Pay of officers of the army, 129, 130.
of the continental treasurers, 131.
of navy officers, 203,
INDEX.
xxi
Pay-master general appointed, 125, 329.
to give security, 125.
to take an oath of ideº
31.
his bills to be paid, 238.
to make wº returns to
Congress, 431.
money advanced to, 134,
135, 138, 147, 175, 257,
288, 339, 381, 428, 433,
450, 459, 470, 515, 558.
in Virginia, appointed, 265.
money advanced to, 327, 391,
419.
Peace, proposals for, how to be made, 466.
Peachy William, colonel, 263.
ſº resigns, 336.
Pelliser Christopher, engineer, 426.
Pendents to private ships of war, &c. proceed-
ings respecting, 531. tº
Pendleton Edmund, a delegate from virginia, § 5
declines a re-election, 137.
Penn John, a delegate from Non-Caroliº
Mr. intercepted letters to, 417.
Pennsylvania, delegates from, 1, 9, 52,69,418.
thanks of Congress to the Assem-
bly of, 45.
to collect saltpetre and sulphur,81.
* to raise a battalion of riflemen,
82, 87.
Assembly, their conimunications
to Congress, 150, 160, 167
to raise six battalions, 153, ;
field officers of, 182, 325,
*.*, *, *, *,
to send troops to New-York, 261.
to raise four companies of Ger-
mans, 390.
to send troops for defence of New-
Jersey, 393, 398.
disputes between Connecticut and,
150, 163, 167,210, 317,453.
quota of militia for the flying
camp, 363.
to be augmented, 419.
money advanced to, 135, 171, 185,
217, 242, 293, 390, 416, 434,
454, 502, 550, 557, 560, 572,
577, 582.
quota of eighty-eight banalº
militia, their accounts to be set-
tled, 497. *
application for the defence of, 512.
battalions ordered to New-Jersey,
*558.
*
Penrose Joseph, lieut. colonel, 226.
money advanced to, 563.
Pensions granted to disabled officers, privates,&c.
454, 455.
Persons disaffected to the American cause, (see
Tories.)
Peruvian bark sent to the southern department,
º 333, 341,482,
Peters Richard, Secretary to the Board of War
and Ordnance, 372.
his salary, 372.
to prosecute appeal in the case
of the brig Elizabeth, 507.
money advanced to, 528, 550.
ordered to Baltimore, 580.
Petitions to the king of Great-Britain, 16, 38,
39, 45, 104, 105,106.
Petitions, sent since the year 1762, called *;
Petitions and memorials to Congress from—
Allen Herman, 334, 338, 354, 364.
Levy,420.
Apprentices, sundry persons relative to
inlistment of, 248, 251, 252.
Andrew Doria, officers, &c. of the
brig, 506.
Anstruther, captain, 528.
Antignac, chevalier d’, 520.
Anthl, lieut. colonel, 588.
Augusta county, Virginia, committee#.
8.
Baccarere Jean, 510.
Bankson Jacob, 457.
Bates John, 525.
Bausman William, 462.
Bayard John, and others, 368, 503, 504.
Bedford Gummim
Bell William, .# Co. 437,467.
Benedict, captain, 412.
Berthaudure Caunier, 341.
Berton Peter, 207,214.
Beveridge David, 205, 211.
Biddie Nicholas, and others, 566.
Blewer and Robinson, 287.
Bowden Lawrence, 543.
Bradley Stephen R. 386, 388.
Brazier Alice, and others, 529.
Brown John, 388, 427, 428, 430, 544,
545.
Brownson Gideon, 471,474.
Budden William, 359.
Budden and Lawrence, 542.
Bull John, 201, 242, 244, 245.
Cady Jeremiah, 539.
Calvert Pierre, 470.
Campbell Duncan, 245, 520.
Canadians, sundry, 422.
Captains of New-Jersey battalions,256.
Carbolais Simon, 528.
Carson and Donaldson, 346.
Champlain Christopher, 391.
Chevalier John and Peter, 356.
Christman Paul, 542.
Church Benjamin, 238,240, 342, 343.
Committee of Walpack,&c. New-Jersey,
315, 317.
of Lincoln, 356.
Connecticut, delegates of, 313.
Conolly John, 540.
Cossade Stephen P. 471.
Cox John, 406
Fermans, and others, 406.
Isaac, and others, 551.
Coxe William, and others,
Custis Edmund, 283, 284,287,288,289.
Dean Joseph, 368.
and others, 550.
De Boy, Mons. 502,508. –
Denef Thomas, 561.
Deputy commissary-general, 457.
Devourouy Mons. 494, 499.
Dicthery Peter, 462.
Dod William, 570.
Dorre, chevalier, 481, 523.
Doyle John, 406, 411, 466,
Dugam Jeremiah, 444, 449.
Dunham Azariah, 545.
Dyer and Williams, 313,
Eastom James, 314, 328, 390,427,428,
430
Erskine William, 368.
Eve Oswald, 333, 452.
Eyre Benjamin, 528, 547.
Falconniere Pannelier, 470.
xxii
INDEX.
Petitions and memorials from—
Fehr Godfred, 178.
Feltham Jocelyn, 274.
Field officers of the first Pemnsylvania
battalion, 235,
Fitzgerald Michael, 462.
Flower Benjamin, 406.
Fowler Jacob, 457, 481,
Prancis Turbutt, 364, 379.
Franks D. 528. tº e
Frederick county, Virginia, inhabitants
of, 69.
Gardner Joseph, and others, 475.
Glover Jonatham, 475.
Goddard William, 16.
Govert James P. 462, 479.
Griffing Jasper, 175.
Guillot Francis, 463, 501.
Halsey Jeremiah, 466,469.
Hamar Ibbetson, 238,239.
Hamilton Archibald, 494.
Hannum John, 411.
Hazard John, 495.
Hazen Moses, 469,495, 502, 523, 528.
Hepburn Stacey, 26.1, 262.
#. William, 388, 389, 452.
Hopkins Eseck,432,433,440, 444, 445.
Waite, 471, 474.
Hospital mates, 382.
Hostages, Scotch, 314.
Hudson jonathan, 202, 204,205.
Inhabitants of Frederick county, Va. 69.
{} Pennsylvania, 218, 269,
278,422.
of Newport, R. I. 227, 228.
of Falmouth Manchuº
of Chester county, Pennsyl-
vania, 422.
Irwin Matthew, 529,530.
Jacobs John, 341.
Jackson Hall, 283, 320.
James and Drinker, 70.
Jenkins Thomas, 194, 197, 202.
William, 514.
Jewell. Robert, 532.
Juge, Mr. 237, 248, 249.
Junesse Prudeliomme La, 450.
Kennon William, 588.
Keppele and Steinmetz,
Henry, 521.
Kills George, 423.
King Hugh, and others, 361.
Kirkland, Mr. 260.
Moses, 317.
Kosciusko, Mr. 461, 522.
Labal Ignace, 348,
Lamb John, 564.
Leaming Thomas, junior, 317, 319.
Lee and Putnam, owners of, 466.
L'Farque Pierre, 257.
Lincoln, committee of the count, oſ,
56.
Lindsay William, 304.
Limkendorff Lewis de, 433, 437.
Livingston James, 425, 426, 439, 443.
Lockwood Samuel, 548, 555.
Longeay Jean, 457, 471.
Loughead James, 174.
Lucena Samuel de, 358,
Mackay William, 512.
Marmajou Anthony, 275.
Marshall i. and others;495,520.
Mates of the hospital, 382.
Matthewson John, and others, 588,
M’Connaughy James, 545.
M'Cue William, 501, 502.
Petitions and memorials from—
M'Gregor Dugal, 182, 199.
M'Henry James, 452, 455.
M’Knight James, 351, 354, 357.
Measam George, 435, 453, 456, 460,
504, 513.
Meigs Return J. 443,447.
Melchior, major, 406.
Mercer Álexander, 565.
Merchants of New-York, 134, 154, 155,
192
of Philadelphia, 134, iša,
155, 192, 209, 219, 275,
277
of Montreal, 277, 278, 284,
291.
Mertlett Harduin, 449, 459.
Moore P. 304.
William, 528.
Morgan John, 380, 408, 413, 414.
Daniel, 511.
Morris Samuel, 426.
Mosengill Anthony, 463.
Murray Robert, and John, 71, 74.
Sansom, and others, I75, 176,
257, 259, 260.
Neff Melchior, 178, 511.
Nelson John, 251,304.
New-Jersey battalions, captains of, 256.
Newton Downham, 182, 192.
Nicholson George, 425,426,467, 472.
Occum Samson, 254, 255.
Officers of, the first Pennsylvania bat-
talion, 235,239,242, 244, 245.
of the first and second Virginia
º battalions, 459.
Oswald Eleazer, 548, 555.
Owners of private ships of war, 375.
of the privateers Lee and Put-
mam, 466.
Paddock and Coffin, 214,218, 221.
Parsons Samuel H. 424, 450.
*Paper-makers in Philadelphia, 452.
Pellissier M. 418, 426.
Pennsylvania committee of safety, 259,
74,504, 528.
Pepin Andre, 470.
Phelps Noah, 321, 326.
Philadelphia committee of inspection,
274, 324,357.
military association, 341.
Pileur Jaques, 470.
Poole William, 390, 402
Potts, Dr. J. 330, 367.
Prahl Lewis, 453.
Purvianee Samuel and Robert, 145.
Raigs John, 162.
Rigg William, 528.
Roberts Charles, 468, 470, 493, 499,
500, 520, 526.
Romand Charles Noel, 544, 545.
Romands Bernard, 263.
Ross Alexander, 467.
James, 496, 499.
Rowe J. and others, 502, 515, 516, 517.
Samsum, Murray, and Co. 257,259,260.
Savage William, and others, 580.
Scotch hostages, 314.
Scott Thomas, 295.
Sears and Randal, 156, 162. '
Secord John, 292,294, 317.
Seegar Frederick, 511.
Sellick Simeon, 218,219,220.
Sergeant John, 562.
Sheafe Jacob, 502,507.
Shoemaker Samuel, 70.
Shott John, 465,467.
INDEX.
xxiii
-º-º-d-. --
Petitions and memorials from—
Simons Peter, 333,351.
Smith Thorowgood, and others, 204.
captain, and others, 511.
Stalker Andrew, 532.
Stark, colonel J. 494.
Startin Charles, 495, 505.
Stewart and Jackson, 138, 139.
Stringer Samuel, 445, 449.
Sullivan J. 563.
Swift and Spauborough, 443.
Taylor John N. 566.
Tillman John, 532.
Traverses Joseph, 538.
Trumbull Joseph, 348, 355, 551.
Tully Christopher, 39.
Ummensetter Jacob, 367.
Vallier James, 502.
Van Heer Bartholomew, 503, 508.
Walker Thomas, 299.
Warner Seth, 471, 472, 473.
Warren Gideon, 337.
Webster Pelatiah, 455.
weibert Antoine F. 335, 387,443.
Weitzel John, 462.
Wharton Challes, 174.
Carpenter, 382, 385, 521,
Wheelock, Dr. 250, 481.
White David, 460.
White-Eyes, captain, 286, 310, 311,
Wilcox John, and others, 356.
Wild William, 467.
Wymcoop Jacobus, 467.
Young Archibald, 501.
Zedwitz Juliana, 551, 557.
Thelps Elisha, commissary for the northern
army, 139.
Pää lphia, meetings of Congress at, 1,50, 137.
effer of the use of books, of the li-
brary company of, 8.
defence of, considered, 544, 547,
575,
removal of Congress to Baltimore,
from, 578.
a committee appointed to transact
special business at, 580.
Pierce, captain Timothy, to be prosecuted, 547.
Pittsburg, a treaty with the Indians at, 341.
fort at, offered to be taken on conti-
mental establishment; 407.
mulder committed by Indians, in the
meighbourhood of,448.
Pollock John, money advanced to, 429.
‘Polk Thomas, colonel, 338.
Pomeroy Seth, first brigadier-general, 87.
4 superseded, 120.
Poole William, money advanced to, 402.
Postmaster general, appointed, 123, 540.
irected to dismiss —
Bessonet from office, 556.
Postmasters excused from military duty, 401.
Tºost off, establishment of a general, 124.
regulations of the, 124, 461, 538.
Posts in New-York, proceedings respecting,
{
70,
72.
Potts Jonathan, physician and surgeon, 367.
Powder. (See Gunpowder.)
Prentice, major, promoted, 438. ſº
Prescott, general, to be securely kept in custº
inquiry into his character and
conduct, 247.
inquiry into the state of his
health, 251.
removed from gaol, and put
under guard, 255.
-*
Prescot, general, paroled, 309.
his baggage plundered, 427.
to be indemnified, 427. -
to be exchanged for general
Thompson, 434.
exchanged for general Sulli-
van, 465,466.
President of Congress elected; 1, 39, 50, 72.
to sign orders on treasurers,
145.
to issue blank commissions,
Y.
allowed a private secretary,
, 397.
to pay bills of exchange,
238,223.
commits captain Gamble to
prison, 413.
issues a warrant to appre-
hend Thomas Reed, and
others, 451.
Preston, major, to repay money advanced to him,
203.
obtains leave to go to Lancaster,
2
09.
to Ambov, 219.
Price Thomas, money advanced to, 175, 579.
J. appointed deputy commissaly-general,
300
and Haywood, money advanced to,304,
314, 317, 318, 440,
empowered to draw bills of exchange,
their accounts to be settled, 323.
Prisoners of war—
taken at St. John's and Chambly, how
disposed of, 177, 178.
arrive at Philadelphia, 201.
to be supplied with neces-
saries, 195.
may choose their places of
residence, 209.
at Trenton, New-Jersey, extravagant
in their manner of livin
o)
to be removed, 235,575.
not to he inlisted in the continental ar-
my, 252.
at Philadelphia, how disposed of, 253.
returns to be made of, 257, 309.
exchange of, how determined, 195,
4. 378, 379.
to be treated with humanity, 349.
regulations respecting, 350.
at Lebanon, in Pennsylvania, make
their escape, 381.
sent to Yorktown, in Pennsylvania,
399.
\
at Carlisle, in Pennsylvania, their com-
plaint, 464.
to be discharged from confinement, on
comditions, 577.
sent to Baltimore, in Maryland, 579.
Prizes, distribution of naval, 190, 191,228, 229,
520, 521.
agents for, appointed, 324, 386.
Proclamation of the king of Great-Buitain, re-
marks on a, 199, 200, 201.
Providence, (See Bahama Islands.)
: | Putnam Israel, appointed fourth major general,
8ö
to take measures for the defence
of Philadelphia, 575, 577,
7
xxiv.
INDEX.
Q.
Qualifications, committee of, appointed, 202, ;
89.
references and directions to, 237,
239,283, 336.
reports from, 241, 292, 295, ;
314.
Quarter-master general, to be appointed by ge-
neral Washington, 120.
his rank, and pay, 213, 365.
money advanced to the .
3 361.
Stephen Moylan, appointed,
365
Quarter-master general, Thomas Mifflin, money
advanced to, 504.
Quarter-masters forbid to impress horses and car-
riages unneccessarily, 512.
Quebec, address to the inhabitants of, 38, 39, 40
to 45.
exportations prohibited to, 71.
unsuccessful attack made by the Ameri-
can army on, 239, 240.
statement of losses sustained at, 245.
information required relative to the re-
duction of, 324.
65. Queen's county, in New-York, refuse to send de-
to make returns of mo-
mey and stores to Con-
gress, 431.
resigns, 503.
Thomas ińin, appointed,
503.
legates to Congress, 224
proceedings on, 224, 225, ;:
56.
Quota of bills of credit, how determined, 215.
of eighty-eight battalions of troops, to
serve during the war, 476.
R.
Rhode-Island, field officers of, 468.
quota of eighty-eight balali;
money advanced to, 206,463.
Rice to be provided for the army, 563.
Richardson col.William, money advanced to,580.
Richmond William, colonel, 468.
county, in New-York, proceedings
respecting, 259.
Rickman William, director of the hospital in
Virginia, 347,
Riflemen, companies of to be raised, 82.
to be formed into a regiment,378, 389.
officers appointed, 389. *
Rights of the colonies, statement of the, 7, °, . 9
declaration of, 19 to 22.
Risberg Gustavus, money advanced to, 459, 523,
541, 57.7
Roberdeau, colonel, to relieve a guard from
renton, 247.
offers to exchange silver
for bills of credit, 370.
brigadier general, letter from, 430.
Rodney Caesar, a delegate from Delaware, 1, 52.
Rogers John, a delegate from Maryland, 212.
major, sent to New-Hampshire, 400.
Ross George, a delegate from Pennsylvania, 9,
Alexander, his person and papers, to be
seized and secured, 318.
sent to Philadelphia, 330.
discharged from confinement,
2
Randolph Peyton, a delegate from Virginia, 1
p j g º
elected president of Congress,
unable to attemd, 39. 2
returns home, 72.
his death and funeral, 157
Edmund, appointed deputy muster-
maSter gneral, 298.
resigns, 328.
frigate, to be employed in defence of
hiladelphia, 577.
, Rangers, to be raised in Canada, 293.
in South-Carolina and Georgia, 423.
commanded by col. Thompson, their
rank, 475.
Rank of officers, how determined, 226, 294.
of naval and military officers, compara-
tive, 549.
Rations allowed to officers, 232, 233.
to militia, 474.
value m money determined, 479.
allowed to staff officers, 524.
Rawlins Moses, lieutenant colonel, 389.
Read George, a delegate from Delaware, 1. ;
JU) CŞ.
Isaac, lieutenant colonel, 263.
promoted, 440.
James, brigadier general, 437. e
Reade Joseph, secretary to general º
his letter respecting clo #.
J
his pay increased, 277.
resigns, 361.
Recaptures, how disposed of, 198.
Recruiting service, promoted, 193,239,256,317,
495, 509, 536, 557.
Reed Thomas, apprehended and confined, 451.
Regimental paymasters to be appointed, ; y
Regonville, Mr. permitted to repair to Philadel-
phia, 212.
money advanced to, 239.
Representation in Congress, measures taken for
a full, 503.
Rhea David, major, 167. *
Rhode-Island, delegates from, 1, 70,343.
to collect salt-petre and ºlº
urged to complete their levies,120.
battalions on continental estab-
lishment, 341.
ordered to New-York,
5,468.
-*.
| Rhodes Samuel, a delegate from Pennsylvania, 1.
detained at Pittsburg, 441.
permitted to go into the Indian
country, 441.
James, promoted, 499. t
Rouville Mons. (the elder,) excepted from_ge-
meral releasement of Canadian prisoners, 513.
Rules and Regulations of the army, (See Arti-
cl s of War.)
of the navy, 180, lsº
Rumsey Benjamin, a delegate from Mayº
J.
Rush, Benjamin. a delegate from Pennsylvania,
added to the medical commit.
tee, 435.
}*tº from South-Caro-
utledge John
Rutledg y lina, 1, 54,325.
Edward,
INDEX.
XXy
Safford Samuel, lieut. colonel, 398.
Sally, and her cargo, proceedings respecting the
sloop, 307, 351.
Salt, inquiry into the method of making, 134.
allowed to be imported, 218, 501, 542.
price of, regulated, 359, 360.
Saltpetre to be collected, 81.
importation of, encouraged, 118, 158,
68, 218,
manufacture of, promoted, 155, 172,
173, 235, 260,261.
Saltonstall,capt.ordered to Philadelphia,373,393.
Samsom, Murray, and Co. their memorial con-
sidered, 260. -
Savannah, in Georgia, a fort to be built and gar-
risonco at, 399.
Scammel, brigade-major, 142.
Schuyler Philip, a delegate from New-York, 69.
appointed third major-geneº
commissioner for Indian affairs,
117.
directions of Congress to, 120
142, 162, 178, 180, 219, 221,
229, 231, 232, 244, 245, 246,
254, 255, 256, 268, 276, 281.
298, 303, 325, 332, 351, 352,
357, 374, 377, 412,416, 417,
427, 428,429, 434, 440, 464,
480,498, 504, 511, 541, 563,
586, 587.
requested to continue in his
command, 504.
Peter P. major, 280.
Scott Charles, lieut. colonel, 263.
promoted, 336, 440.
money advanced to, 532.
Seal for the United States of America, 397, 450.
Seamen, their pay, 207,240.,
in South-Carolina, high wages offered
to, 238, 240. e
taken prisoners, permitted to inlist, 432.
provision for wounded or disabled, :
*X.
Sears, captain, money advanced to, 156.
Seayres John, major, 512.
Secrecy enjoined, 7, 55,219.
Secretary of Congress chosen, 1, 50.
his salary, 373, 374.
allowed to employ a clerk,
of the Board of War and Ordnance,
appointed, 372.
Secret committee appointed, 168.
references and directions to,178,
223, 224, 228, 230, 233, 235,
243, 249,261, 266, 269, 273,
275, 277,278, 282,284, 288,
294,307, 315, 317, 318, 319,
327, 332, 333, 335, 336, 337,
340, 342, 344, 345, 346, 348,
356, 358, 363, 364, 372, 386,
400, 406, 428, 433,436, 438,
443, 444, 452, 454, 456, 458,
460, 465, 478,479, 481, 495,
500, 501, 506, 514, 523, 526,
540, 547, 565, 567.
Seegar Frederick, quarter-master, his resigma-
tion accepted, 511.
Sellers Nathan, ordered from New-Jersey to
Philadelphia, 454.
Sergeant Jonathan D. a delegate from New-Jer-
sey, 269, 569.
Shaw Nathaniel, jumior, agent of prizes, 324.
*
WQL. I. 76
S.
Shawanese chiefs, speech of Congress to, 481.
Shee John, colonel, 223.
his resignation accepted, 501.
Sheldon Elisha, lieut. colonel, commandant of
cavalry, 577, 578.
Shepherd William, promoted, 503.
Sherburne, major, taken by the enemy at the
Cedars, 404.
his conduct approved by
Congress, 405.
farther pºdius in the
case of, 564.
Sherman Roger, a delegate fom Connecticut, 1,
7
Shin Buddell, quarter-master, 185.
Shippen William, junior, chief physician to the
flying camp, 411.
money advanced to, 425.
to take care of sick and
wounded officers and sol-
diers, 583.
Shipwrights sent to Ticonderoga, 229.
, Shrieve Israel, lieut. col. 167.
Signers of the continental currency, names of
the, 123, 205, 227, 271, 585.
Sinclair Patrick, permitted to return to Burg;
Slaves, importation of, prohibited, 307.
Skene Philip, his papers examined, 80.
paroled, 81.
sent under a guard to Commecticut,
inquiry into a report of his escape,
184.
to be exchanged for James º
2
Skenesborough and fort Ann, communication to
be opened between, 232.
Skinner Cortland, to be apprehended and ex-
amined, 231.
Smallwood, col. Wm. ordered to New-York, 414,
his regiment to be supplied, 418.
promoted, 527.
directed to raise levies in Mary-
land, 588.
Smith John, to be closely confined, 240, 300.
allowed to walkin the gaol-yard,361.
Richard, a delegate from New-Jersey, 1,
• 2
Dr. to deliver an oration in memory of
general Montgomery, 247,269.
Thomas, commissioner of accounts for
New-York, 417.
Jonatham B. deputy muster-master gene-
ral, 402.
his resignation accepted, 401.
James, a delegate from Pennsylvania;
Robert, agent of prizes, 324.
Alexander L. money advanced to, 541.
Soldiers not to be arrested for trifling debts,216.
and seamen, provision for disabled, 454,
5.
South-Carolina, delegates from, 1,54, 325.
to collect saltpetre &sulphur,81.
to raise three battalions, 165.
instructions of Congress to, #
66.
ofter high wages to seamen, 238,
2 º
money advanced to, 383, 563.
rangers. to be on continental
establishment, 423,
xxvi
INDEX.
South-Carolina, Indian hostilities commenced
against, 427.
quota of eighty-eight bualſº
Spencer Elihu, money advanced to, 211.
Joseph, fifth brigadier-general, 87.
promoted, 437.
Spies, proceedings of Congress respecting, 365,
374, 379, 385, 426,450.
Spotswood Alexander, major, 263.
promoted, 336, 440,
Stadler John, engineer, 301.
Stephen Adam, colonel, 263.
promoted, 465.
Sterling, lord, appointed colonel, 167.
takes the transport Blue Moun-
tain Valley, 250.
promoted, 277.
directions of Congress to, 184,
221, 222, 231, 233,250, 286.
Stevenson Hugh, colonel of a rifle regiment,389.
money advanced to, 402.
officers of his battalion, 406,
467, 477, 563.
Stewart, major, promoted and honored by Com-
gress, 555.
Stockton Richard, a delegate from New-Jersey,
390, 569.
Stone Thomas, a delegate from Maryland, 69,
138,415,553.
eaptain, and his vessel, engaged in conti-
mental service, 193,
. Stringer, Samuel, director of the hospital in the
T.
Stopford, major, to repay money advanced to
him, 203
Stricker George, lieut. colonel, 414.
northern department, 139.
Strobach Martın, permitted to exchange sea for
land service, 344.
Stuart, colonel Charles, money advanced to,293.
Sturges Thaddeus, money advanced to, 431.
St. Clair Arthur, colonel, 223.
his battalion ordered to Canº
06.
promoted, 437.
St. John's, fort, taken, 177.
parish, in Georgia, delegate to Con-
gress from, 67.
St. Lawrence river, to be explored, 229.
Subsistence allowed to officers on recruiting scr-
vice, 152.
Suffolk county, . * proceedings
of 11, 12.
their letter to general Gage, 13.
Summer Jethro, colonel, 336.
Sunbury, in Georgia, a fort to be built and gar-
risoned at, 399.
Surgeons allowed to each battalion, 202.
Suttlers encouraged to attend the army in Ca-
mada, 256, 268.
restrictions on, 542, 543.
Swift Joseph, junior, money advanced to, 364.
Symes, lieut. and others, taken prisonels, 158.
Table expenses allowed to commanding general,
206.
Taliaferro William, major, 512.
Tallman Benjamin, major, 468.
Taylor Geo. a delegate from Pennsylvania, 419.
John, judge advocate in Virginia, 335.
William, lieut. colonel, 336.
Tazewell John, agent of prizes, 324.
Tea-holders, their memorial rejected, 192.
Teas, regulations for the sale and consumption of,
15.
Temple Harriet, compensation made to, 458.
Test oath not to be exacted, 282.
Tew James, major; 468.
Thackston James, lieut. colonel, 336.
Thistle, schooner, and cargo, appeal in the case
of, 433,454, 470, 493, 499, 500.
Thomas John, sixth brigadier-general, 87.
first brigadier-general, 120.
promoted, and takes command in
Canada, 279.
Thomson Charles, appointed Secretary of Com-
‘gress, 1, 50.
his salary, 375,376.
allowed to employ an assistant
clerk, 69,409.
Thompson William, money advanced to, 131.
brigadier-general, 277
general Prescot offered in
exchange for, 434.
William Franklin offered in
exchange for, 454.
colonel, thanks of Congress
to, 418.
rank of his regiment
determined, 475.
Thornton Matthew, a delegate from New-Hamp-
shire, 536.
Ticonderoga taken, 71.
arms arid military stores to be re-
moved from, 72.
in danger of being re-taken, 77.
pay of the troops sent to, 88.
Ticonderoga, instructions to the committee sent
there, 169, 170, 171.
shipwrights sent to, 229. t
fortress at, to be repaired, 247.
account of lead there, to be furnish-
ed, 309.
troops ordered to, 399.
Tillinghast Daniel, agent of prizes, 324.
Tod Alexander, money advanced to, 451.
Tories in Tryon county, to be disarmed, 219,254.
moderation of Congress to uninformed,
22, 381.
in Queen's county, New-York, proceed-
ings respecting, 224, 225.
in Richmond county, N ev-York, 259.
their arms to be taken for general de *;
£).
Towers Robert, appointed inspector of gumpow-
der, 459.
Tracy Mr. money advanced to, 151.
|Trade and manufactures of the colonies, statutes
to be examined affecting the, 7, 9.
regulations relative to, 143,160, 161.
Traverses Joseph, money advanced to, 538.
Treason defined, 385.
Treasurers, continental, appointed, 130.
to give security, 131. *
their salary, 131.
additional allowance to, 434.
office of one, abolished, 434.
Treasury office of accounts, established,367,273,
302, 380,494, 502.
Treasury office of accounts, committee off-
reports ſtom, 400, 402,409, 420,
422,432, 433,436,437, 440,
442, 449, 460, 462, 463, 468,
469, 470, 472, 473, 477, 480,
496, 500, 504, 505, 508, 513,
514, 521, 522, 524,525, 526,
527, 529, 532, 533, 539, 540,
542, 543, 544, 546, 547, 548,
#5, #6, #7,553,564,566,
570, 572, 573, 576, 579,
INDEX.
xxvii
Treasury office of accounts, committee of
references and directions to, 338,
393, 407, 428,438,447, 456,
459, 504, 511, 529, 530, 532,
535, 539, 543, 553.
empowered to administer oaths,544.
Treaties with foreign powers, plan of, 370, 416,
418, 451, 452, 457, 478.
Trentom, committee of, money advanced to, 246.
Trepanning instruments to be sent to the south-
erm department, 341.
Trial beyond sea, declared illegal and unjust, 38,
39.
Trumbull Joseph, commissary-general, 120.
draws on the president of Con-
gress, 151.
U.
United Colonies, absolved from allegiance to the United Colonies, style of, altered to “United
British crown, 392.
declared free and independent
states, 394, 395, 396.
W.
Van Shaick, colonel, 231.
Van Zantz Jacobus, agent of prizes, 324.
Varick Richard, deputy quarter-master-general,
499
Vermonet chevalier,
Vermejouz Mons. g
Wessels fitted out as cruisers, 153, 154, 159, 296.
retaken, how disposed of, 198.
transporting stores, &c. to the enemy, li-
able to seizure and confiscation, 210.
taken and carried into Massachusetts, to
be libelled there, 211.
loaded for Great Britain, &c. not per-
mitted to sail, 274.
restraint taken off, 278.
belonging to the enemy to be lawful
prize, 296. • *
of war, form of commission to comman-
ders of private armed, 303.
instructions to commanders of private
armed, 305.
of war, additional, to be provided, 453.
left by the enemy at Boston, how dispos-
ed of, 331
money advanced to, 486,
494
for Bermuda, not to be fitted out, 431.
W.
f
Trumbull Joseph, money advanced to, 156, 325,
546
to supply the northern armies,
• * 401, 472.
Jonathan, jun. deputy paymaster-ge-
meral, 125.
money advanced to, 431,
444, 463, 523, 562.
John, deputy adjutant-general, 472.
Tudor William, judge-advocate, 130.
ordered to New-York, 438.
Turtle-Bay, saltpetre removed from, to be manu-
factured, 155.
Tuthill Barnabas, major, 334.
Tyler, lieut. colonel, promoted, 438.
States, ’470.
Vessels,piratical,seizure of,sundry American,450,
Virginia, delegates from, 1, 7, 53, 71, 86, 138,
272, 458, 537.
to collect saltpetre and sulphur, 81.
to raise two companies of riflenien, 32.
saltpetre mine, discovered in, 158,
troops sent from Pennsylvania, to the
eastern shore of, 196, 197.
advice of Congress to, 197,
to raise nine battalions, 217, 218, 298.
permitted to export produce, 218.
to raise six companies of riflemen, 389.
to assist Georgia and South-Carolina,
399, 427.
to provide clothing for troops, 456.
field officers of, 263,288,336,440, 512.
money advanced to, 263,298,327,357,
419, 568.
battalions ordered to New-York, 465.
public accounts of, to be audited, 476.
quota of eighty-eight battalions, 476.
application of, to purchase cannon,
not complied with, 545.
to raise a regiment of artillery, 560.
field and other officers, 566.
Wade capt. momey advanced to, 457.
Walker John, commissioners for Indian af-
Thomas, fairs, 120, 140,
Charles, to be indemnified, 367,408.
money advanced to, 408.
Walton George, a delegate from Georgia, 348,
* 57.7. 579.
entrusted with special business
of Congress, at Philadelphia,
lº
Warner Seth, colonel, 398.
officers of his battalion, 475.
Warren James, appointed paymaster-general,
125.
resigns, 320. *.
his resignation accepted, 322.
allowances made to, 400.
to pay balanice in his hands to
Ebenezer Hancock, 400.
80. Washington George, a delegate from Virginia,
{}
War and ordnance, board of, established, ( See
oard.
Ward Samuel, a delegate from Massachusetts,
2
his death and fumeral, 209.
Artemas, appointed first major-general,
85
his resignation accepted, 323.
to continue his command in the
eastern department, 451.
to receive pay, &c. 540.
colonel, officers of his regiment, 499.
, 53,
* appointed general and com-
mander in chief of the
American army, 83.
his speech on the occasion,
>
his commission, 85.
empowered to appoint cere
tain officers, 120, 142.
committee of Congress to
confer with, 145,
**
xxviii
INDEX.
White, rev. William, appointed chaplain to Con-
gress, 53i.
Anthony Walton, lieut. colonel, 260.
John, major, 336. -
Eyes, captain, an Indian chief, intro-
duced to Congress, 208.
address to, 209,311.
*A money advanced to, 311.
Whitecombe John, brigadier-general, 366.
Whitely William, money advanced to, 563.
Whiting William, provision made for, 388,437.
Wiesenfels Frederick, lieut. colonel, 280.
Wilcox J. to audit accounts of Pennsylvania
militia, 497.
Williams Otho H. major, 389.
William, a delegate from Connecticut,
237
Willing Thomas, a delegate from Pennsylvania,
52.
Wilkins , to be sent under guard to Phila-
delphia, 556.
Wiltner Ludwick, major, 414.
Wilson James, a delegate from Pennsylvania,69,
418.
appointed commissioner for In-
dian affairs, 117.
to pay bills drawn by George
Morgan, 393.
Wind William, lieut. colonel, 167.
promoted, 280.
Wismer Henry, a delegate from New-York, 9,
69
Witherspoon John, a delegate from New-Jersey,
390.
allowed to take prisoners of
war to Trenton, 542.
Woedtke haron de, appointed brigadier-genº,
87.
º money advanced to, 294,
Wolcott Oliver, commissioner for Indian affairs,
117.
a delegate from Connecticut,
237.
Wood Joseph, major, 226.
promoted, 426, 470.
Wood creek to be cleared, 232, 377.
Woodford William, 263. #
Woodgate John, money advanced to, 528.
Worster David, third brigadier-general, 87.
ordered to NewYork, 366.
permitted to return to Connecti-
cut, 388.
stops goods on their way to the
Indian country, 428.
his conduct acquitted of censure
or blame, 446.
Wright, sir James, intercepted letters to, 419.
Wyoming, contention between Pennsylvania and
Connecticut, at, 163, 317,453. *
Wythe George, a delegate from Virginia, #.
money advanced to, 217. •
Y.
Yates John, regimental pay-master, 436.
Washington George, allowed to attack Boston,
takes it, 297, 298.
attemds Congress, 356, 357.
refuses to receive a letter,
improperly addressed,
from Lord Howe, 413.
renews his application for
a re-inforcement of the
army, 574.
vested by Congress with
discretionary powers: 2
directions of Congress to,
20, 142, 146, 148, 164,
227, 250, 279, 282, 293,
298, 322, 324, 334, 335,
344, 345, 346, 348, 352,
356, 361, 376, 378, 379,
383, 384, 385, 399, 401,
411, 412, 413, 420, 421,
423, 425, 426, 428, 435,
441, 447, 464, 465, 466,
468, 500, 502, 512, 513,
541, 559, 567, 576, 580,
581, 588.
Waterbury, colonel, money advanced to, 225.
Way Nicholas, money advanced to, 577.
Wayne Anthony, colonel, 223.
ordered to New-York, 270,272,
officers of his battalion, 505.
Webb William, clerk to the auditorsº
8.
Webster, Peter, money advanced to, 257.
Weeden George, lieut. colonel,263.
promoted, 440.
Weibert Antoine F. engineer, 387.
Wells, Mr. commissioner of accounts, 425,
West Jabez, interposition of Congress in the
case of, 316. W
Westmoreland, in Pennsylvania, troops ordered
for the defence of, 453.
Wharf-builders to be engaged for public service,
525, 528.
Wharton Carpenter, contraets to supply, the
Pennsylvania batai;
money advanced to, 246,
274, 312, 369, 413, 519,
574.
appointed commissary,400.
John, mavy agent, 546.
Wheeling, in Virginia, fort at, 407.
Whelper David, money advanced to, 445.
Whipple William, a delegate from New-Hamp-
shire, 276.
captain, proceedings of a court-martial
respecting, 367.
ordered to Philadelphia, 373.
arrives there, 393.
to cultivate harmony with his
officers, 407.
Yates, lieut. colonel, 231.
Jasper, commissioner for Indian affairs, York passage-boat to be valued, 289.
Robert, secretary for ditto, 308,
2;edwitz Herman, lieut. colonel, 280.
confined in gaol at Philadel-
phia, 557.
Young James, and Archibald, their petitions
granted, 295, 501.
Z.
Zedwitz, Mrs. money advanced to, 557.
Zubly, rev. Dr. a delegate from Georgia, 136.
（~~~~）; czºłºw-~~
~~~~ ~ .

:
º