American Archives, Fourth Series: Containing a Documentary History of the English Colonies in North America, From the King's Message to Parliament, of March 7, 1774, to the Declaration of Independence by the United States [6]


231 81 125MB

English Pages 992 Year 1844

Report DMCA / Copyright

DOWNLOAD PDF FILE

Recommend Papers

American Archives, Fourth Series: Containing a Documentary History of the English Colonies in North America, From the King's Message to Parliament, of March 7, 1774, to the Declaration of Independence by the United States [6]

  • 0 0 0
  • Like this paper and download? You can publish your own PDF file online for free in a few minutes! Sign Up
File loading please wait...
Citation preview

American

^rcl)ities!: '""-...,.,,„,.„„ "f«OSMl WKVORS "^ 'f-

CONSISTING OF

l,c PITf,.,,,

A COLLECTION OF AUTHENTICK RECORDS, STATE PAPERS, DEBATES, AND LETTERS AND OTHER NOTICES OF PUBLICK AFFAIRS,

THE WHOLE FORMING

A DOCUMENTARY HISTORY THE ORIGIN AND PROGRESS OF THE NORTH AMERICAN COLONIES;

CAUSES AND ACCOMPLISHMENT OF THE A3IERICAN REVOLUTION;

THE CONSTITUTION OF GOVERNMENT FOR THE UNITED STATES,

THE FINAL RATIFICATION THEREOF.

IIV

SIX SEKIES. FOURTH SERIES. March 7th,

FIRST SERIES.

From

the Discovery

and Settlement of the North American

Colonies, to the Revolution in England, in 1688.

From

the King's Message, of

ration of

Independence by the United

SECOND SERIES.

From

to Great Britain,

by the Treaty

at Paris, in

1763.

From

the Declaration of Independence, in 1776, to the

finitive

SIXTH SERIES.

the Cession of Canada, in 1763, to the King's

sage to Parliament, of inifs in

\orth America.

March

7th, 1774,

De-

Treaty of Peace with Great Britain, in 1783.

THIRD SERIES.

From

States, in 1776.

FIFTH SERIES.

the Revolution in England, in 1688, to the Cession of

Canada

1774, to the Decla-

Mes-

on the Proceed-

From

the Treaty of Peace, in 1783, to the final ratification

of the Constitution of Government for the United States,

proposed by the Convention, held

at Philadelphia, in

BY PETER FORCE.

PREPARED AND PUBLISHED UNDER AUTHORITY OF AN ACT OF CONGRESS.

1787.

ENTERED ACCORDING TO ACT OF CONGRESS,

IN

THE YEAR

1843,

BY PETER FORCE, IN

THE CLERK'S OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.

^^/ Nj

AMERICAN ARCHIVES jTourtl) §>ertes. r. 26, From the Proprietors of Plantations in the Bri-

West-Indies, Merchants in Glasgow, and .

Instructions to

.

.

.

-

-

-

-

-

Committee appointed

Motion

to bring

JVov.

BILL TO CALL OUT

.

.

AND ASSEMBLE THE MILITIA

IN

1,

-

.



Oct.27, Bill "to enable his Majesty to call out and assemble the Militia in all cases of Rebellion,

Committee

to prepare the Bill, reported and read, 30, Motion the Bill be read a second time, Debate—Mr. Hartley, Mr. Charles Turner, Viscount Mountstuart,

-

-

Mr. Dunning, George Yonge, Mr. Rigby, . Colonel Barre, Mr. Acland, Mr. T. Townshend,

Sir

-

-

.

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

... ...

Thomas Egerton,

-

-

-

-

-

Captain Luttrell, Mr. Fox, Lord North, Bill read the second time, in Committee of the Whole, Considered JVoi". 15, Motion made to amend the Preamble, . Debate Mr. Sawbridge, Lord John Cavendish,

-

Mr. Burke, Sir William Bagot,

-



Sir George Savile, . Mr. Herbert, Mr. Serjeant Adair, Sir Grey Cooper, Mr. T. Townshend, Dempster, Mr.

Amendment

-

. -

>

-

-

-

-

-

... .... .... -

rejected,

22, Bill read the third time,

-

-

-

-

-

Debate— Mr. Fox, Mr. Acland, Lord North, Mr. Burke, Mr. Moysey, Bill

passed,

OcBesides, they were fully-

ing the liberties of the people. persuaded that most of their misfortunes have arisen froia

the misrepresentations of

Govemours on

However

may affect

the noble Lord

this side the

water.

to treat this proposition

of his honourable friend, he only begged leave to observe, that this was not the rash and hasty opinion of an inconsiderate individual, but the deliberate wishes

and

desires of

many gentlemen of a most respectable description within the House, who expect to be called upon in a short time, almost personally, to contribute a large supply towards carrying on these measures.

Lord North did not give a direct answer, though he admitted the propriety of the gendeman's reasonings who spoke He said a Commission would be sent, according to last. the intimation given at the opening of die session from the need not be uneasy that any would be agreed to without the approbut it would be necessary to know bation of Parliament upon what grounds the Americans would treat before the powers, sufficient to ratify what the Commissionere might When the think expedient, were derived from Parliament. terms that America was willing to submit to were in a state proper to be laid before the House, that, in his opinion, would be the proper time to take the sense of Parliament on previous communications, and leave it to judge of the alternative, whether the oflci-s oi^ America could be accepted with honour, or whether Biitain ought to reduce them to a state of obedience, however hazardous the undertaking. Mr. T. Townshcnd said, the noble mover had given him a strong lesson against great establislmients, w hen his Lord-

Throne

;

that the gentleman

treaty of concession

;

10

LORD BARRINGTON'S MOTION FOR SUPPORT OF THE ARMY.

147

ship said, that the keeping up eiglity-nine thousand men in peace liad crippled us. But there was a great difference

between the present division of the empire and a war with those enemies are quiet, but ready to its natural enemies attack us on a sudden whenever they see an opportunity. Mr. JVilUam Iiuics. Sir, the present state of our Ameri;

The prosperity of a can affairs flows from natural causes. people depends on a form of Government suited to their situThat which was calculated for ations and circumstances. the infant state of our Colonies, is evidently defective now In every civilized that they are grown great and populous. nation in the known world, at this period of time, whether monarchy or republick, you will not find the subjects governed merely by the love and affection which they bare to their

A well regulated Government maintains

rulers.

by a proper

Is

authority

and correct the bad humours of

force, to restrain

discontented individuals.

its

it

possible in the nature of things

amongst a numerous race of people, all of them can he In every large society, there is a restsober and sensible ? less and turbulent set of men, fond of power, and envious of Have you hitherto those in rank and station above them. kept a force sufficient to maintain the authority of this counNo, try, over even a few individuals in North- America? You laid on the Stamp Act, without sir, you have not. power to enforce it you were so weak as to repeal it, without giving time to try what effect it might have in the ordinary course of things, owing to your own unsteady and factious pursuits at home. What has been the real cause of discontent in Americal It has arisen chiefly from a thirst after independency, and from the great encouragement which the Colonists found on that

;

A seditious

this side the water.

tagion

;

soon spreads

spirit

and, in the present case,

it

its

con-

has grown to an enor-

be wondered at, when you consider America, there are to be found men of abandoned principles, ready to engage in any outrage ?

mous

Is this to

height.

that both here

The more

and

sensible,

in

who

are disposed to peace, will not in-

terfere in proper time, thinking

it

ment, under whose protection they

You

insult.

the business of Governlive, to

defend them from

are told, with confidence, that the

North-Ame-

It is not true. of them united. I have letters, on the veracity of which I can depend, informing me of the contrary. Ask the gentlemen lately come from North-

ricaiis are all

America they will tell you they have been forced away, because they would not join in the general riot and disturb:

ance.

On

the great question of the natural rights of mankind,

and the vations.

right of taxation,

When

the

I

beg leave

settlers

first

Were

were those regulations?

to

went and

lent to go under certain restrictions

make

a few obser-

out, they

were con-

regulations.

What

not .the Colonists confined

within certain bounds, and subjected to certain terms by Were they not then satisfied and happy to charter grants ?

accept the terms granted them, and to be under the protecmother country ? Did the first settlers in the Colonies, to whom the charters were granted, presume to

tion of the

148

over an estate belonging to herself? I leave it to the learned and ingenious honourable gentlemen to define the true sense and meaning of the different charters granted to the Colonies but I am afraid their nice distinctions and definitions will throw little light upon the subject, and serve only ;

to perplex and confound men of ordinary understanding. The grand claim of the Americans is liberty ; but it appears to me absurd to say that a people who import slaves,



nay, many of whom draw from the very bosom of slavery have a right to the freedom which the inhabitants of this country

and are despotick over them



their sustenance

enjoy. respect, vails in

The North-American spirit and practice, in this have surely nothing in them similar to what preGreat Britain. Would it not, then, be a strange

piece of policy,

mother country,

if

not a subversion of

all

order in

the

countenance this dangerous spirit, which independency, and might speedily degene-

to

evidently aims at

rate into tyranny, over their present constitutional superiors ?

What claim can those persons have to an increase of liberty, who do not grant the smallest exercise of it to their neighbours ? Or if their claim were to be admitted, in what manner



partially or imparsuch liberty to be dispensed the grandchild to be free, and the grandfather to Is the brother to enjoy liberty, and the remain a slave ? sister to be excluded from it ? The question concerning the natural rights of mankind cannot, with propriety, come is

Is

tially ?

under consideration in the present dispute between us and Liberty, genuine liberty, if it exist at all, is our Colonies. If our forefathers confined to this and our sister kingdom. have been so negligent as not to give stability to the authority of this country over her Colonies, it is high time that we should do it. I cannot reconcile it to the duty I owe to my country in general, and to my constituents in particular, to be silent on Things are got to such a height that it this great occasion. behoves every man to give all the assistance in his power. Sir, the method hitherto pursued, to quell the rebellion in North- America, has proved ineffectual, because it was mild and gentle. We are not, however, to despair. More vigorous and better planned measures will have a different effect. Your troops received a severe check on the 19th of April. What else could be expected ? The Provincials were provoked at being represented as cowards. They were determined to convince you of the contrary? They fought, indeed but how did they fight ? They attacked y9ur troops from windows of houses and from behind walls, at a time Neither has the soldiers were fatigued with a long march. the lamentable affair at Bunker's Hill, on the 17th of June, The Provincials were strongly anything surprising in it. a situation which inspired intrenched on an. eminence courage, in confidence of safety yet our troops fought and conquered under the greatest disadvantages. Boston is a place badly situated for defence, surrounded by hills, and liable to be attacked in various ways it is, therefore, entirely improper to keep an army at a place so circumstanced, and for this reason your troops ought to be removed from ;



;

;

say to the mother county, we will abide by your laws and regulations so long as we shall think fit, but no longer?

thence.

Have

of military skill and courage, between his MajesThe numbers of the latter are ty's forces and the Rebels. undoubtedly great, and it will be difficult, if not impossible,

along enjoyed every encouragement and support which the first settlers could possibly have Was it not then understood that they were to expected ? be subject to the laws of this country? Will any man say not the Colonists

all

that either the original or

any of the

late

emigrants ever

went out with any other views than those of interest? Did the original settlers presume to talk about representatives in Parliament, and be taxed without their own consent? Has a man, whom I have indulged to possess a share of my house at an easy rate, but subject to my rules, a right, when I am grown old, thinking he is stronger than me, to say, I will submit to your rules no longer; the house is mine, and I will turn you out? Is it because the Colonies have arrived to a flourishing condition, under the wing of the parent State, that they have a right to rebel ? It has been asserted that the Colonists are the offspring oi Englishmen, and, as such, entitled to the privileges oi Britons. Sir,

of a refusal to

I

am

bold to deny

it

;

for

it is

consist of English, Scots,

well

and

known

Irish,

that they not only

but also of French,

Dutch, Germans, innumerable Indiana, Africans, and a mulIs it possible to tell which are the most turbulent amongst such a mixture of people ? To which of them is England to give up her original right titude of felons from this country.

There has a

been any regular engagement, nor

not, as yet,

fair trial

conquer them, if attacked when so securely intrenched. people of Massachusetts-Bay appear to be obstinate and enthusiastick to the last degree they ought, therefore, to be treated like madmen, whom it were folly to contend with. I would, on this consideration, advise to shut them up with frigates and sloops-of-war, and leave them. to

The

;

A

noble Lord may remember I took the liberty to propose this measure to him in the month of Fcbniari/ last, beand, from a full persuasion fore the reinforcement went out ;

recommended to his Lordship to send I wish that all the army to Neiv-York and Fhiladelphia. it would have prevented much plan had been adopted But it must be adbloodshed and other ill consequences. mitted that no human foresight can determine in what manof the propriety of

it,

;

ner the best concerted plans will operate. You are losing, to all appearance, a complete year, by The enemies of Admiyour army being kept at Boston. nistration exult and reproach you with the ignominious situation of British soldiers, tion.

But

let

cooped up

not this discourage us.

in

a state of inac-

If it were not for the

LORD BARRINGTON'S MOTION FOR SUPPORT OF THE ARMY.

149

of so many brave men who have unhappily fallen, every other consideration is immaterial. You are not, lioviever, without some advantage; time, which brings all things to an issue, seems to be working favourably for you. I presume, with all deference, still to oHer my ])oor opinion it is, that the army should be sent to one of the Southern real loss

;

Colonies, to

make one

strong post.

make

If there

is

to

be more

they please. I take it for granted that you are to have an army of twenty or twenty-five thousand men in North-America next spring fighting, let the Provincials

although

I

if

mean they should be intrenched and

defensive, yet they

may

Your army, posted

in

jects

the attack,

encouragement

act on the

act offensively as opportunity offers.

a secure situation, will give loyal subthey only want

to declare themselves

;

can be little doubt that the force subdue the Colonies to the southward of Delaware river, and that sloops-of-war may easily obstruct the passage of an army from the Northern Provinces, should an attempt be made to cross that extensive river to join the Insurgents on the other side. Your success against one-h'a\i oi North- America will pave the way to the conquest of the whole, and it is more than probable you may find men to recruit your army in AmeSuch of those rica; money will engage them to inlist. deluded people as are determined to continue in rebellion, may be allowed to carry on their militaiy designs and ope1 think there

protection.

intended

sufficient to

is

rations in the interior parts of the country as long as they

can keep together; they ought not to be followed let your army still maintain one firm post. In time, the Rebels will be tired out they will be perplexed if you do not follow them their guilt, folly, and expense, must breed intestine the common men must soon be convinced of dissensions the fraud of being paid in paper currency the foolish and wicked resolves of the Congress with regard to non-importation and non-exportation will soon recoil on themselves and prove their destruction. The Congress, by their ridiculous and presumptuous scheme of a bar to all trade with Britain and her Islands, have exposed themselves to contempt, and, by this time, must be feeling the ruinous effects They vainly imagined that all the merchants and of it. manufacturers oi Britain would have taken the alarm, and, through fear of the loss of trade, have yielded to their views but the good sense of the people of this country has shown them and the world that they are not to be deceived by such Another of the ingenious devices of the Northartifice. Americans was, to lay in a stock of goods, which they thought sufficient to clothe them for an extraordinary time but, by authentick advices, they are already in great want As one instance within my of all sorts of necessaries. own knowledge, a letter I have received, within these few days, from a correspondent in North- America, enclosing an ;

;

;

;

;

order for goods to be sent next spring, if possible, contains " negroes will suffer much next year, this paragraph :

My

What the poorer of planters will do, I know not for there is not a piece of linen of any sort to be got in any of the stores." I hope the friends of the Colonies will not be so bold as to assert that they are such a supernatural race as to live without clothes any more than they can exist without meat, drink, if

matters are not speedily accommodated.

sort

;

and sleep. After your army has fortified one strong place, detachments may be sent to other seaport towns to erect forts under cover of ships-of-war it will soon appear how far settlements may be extended in the Southern Provinces. If your sloops are vigilant, (which, doubtless, they will be,) it is next to an impossibility that cargoes of goods can be smuggled into North-America to any extent, even in the three winter months, which are only severe to the northward trading vessels can scarcely escape sloops-of-war properly stationed on the coast and within the great rivers. In this situation, the Colonists will be driven to the last extremity for want of clothes and other necessary articles, ;

;

particularly those of the woollen kind.

ble they can subsist, with

It

is

scarce possi-

any degree of comfort, without

British and Irish goods if they are supplied with the manufactures of this country by any in.direct means, yet the pretext of the decline of trade may be kept up by designing men, although in fact it be flourishing. ;

I have read the petitions and addresses from some of the manufacturing towns, giving a dreadful representation of their fears and apprehensions of a total decay of trade,

150

"should that be interrupted which we derive from a friendly intercourse with North- America, TinA by which alone our rank in Europe can be su|)porled." In these petitions they artfully insinuate, that the present flourishing state of

merce throughout the

kingdoir^,

temporary causes, such nish flota," &tc.

as

is

owing

"the peace oi Poland, the »Sp«-

Sir, these petitions are calculated

furnishes

many

articles

merely

weak minds this country of commerce, from natural growth,

the purpose of imposing on

for

comand

to accidental

;

and by the dexterity of our artists, which no other part of it is impossible, therefore, that we the globe can jiroduce can be deprived of our usual share of trade with every part of the world North- America, in particular, cannot be supplied with several of her commodities, except from Great Britain. If a survey were taken of the state of the manufactures over all Europe, it will not be found that one nation with another possesses above one year's superfluous stock of goods, any more than an extraordinary quantity of provisions; on the supposition, therefore, that ihii American ;

;

trade should be diverted into a foreign channel, the nation

which supplies them must, of course, be itself speedily exhausted, and forced to apply to Britain for a recruit. Sir, I declare myself averse to any further concession towards the Colonies, than what was offered by the conciliatory plan, namely, " that the Colonies should furnish an

adequate sum, to be raised amongst themselves towards the The defence of North-America has expense." and it is but equitable now cost this nation many millions that the Colonists should contribute to an alleviation of that Administration, in my opinion, betrayed the digburden. nity of this country in making even that proposition, and, after what has since happened, the Rebels are unworthy of such mild treatment. From whom ought proposals of accommodation to come? Have they not been the aggressor ? Have they not grossly insulted the constitutional authority of this empire? The North- Americans in general, indeed, are objects of compassion, rather than of resentment they have been led on, and insensibly made the tools general

;

;

of factious and discontented men in this and their own country. It is more than probable the Stamp Act would have been submitted to, had not the opposition to it been

countenanced here.

As

are

affairs

now

situated,

some new and uncommon

One of our great objects at present should be to succour our innocent and peaceable subjects, in this their time of distress. For this reason, 1 cannot altogether approve of all the acts passed for the punishment of the delinquents, because they involve the innocent with the guilty. The former, as well as the latter, are in great want of all sorts of clothes. It being unsafe for merchants to send out goods, it is submitted, whether it would not be good policy in Government to give orders for, and export, a quantity of such commodities as our loyal American subjects are known to want most, and expedients ought to be devised, to rectify them.

women and children. This would be an act of great benevolence, as well as sound policy. Such goods might be under the care of supercargoes, protected by the array they would be ready to supply our friends, and also such of the disaffected as might be disposed to submit this, under good management, would prove beneficial, not detrimental, to the publick nor would it require a very large sum for this purpose the goods might be other provisions the bartered for flour, and for army. [Merchants would, after some time, be induced to send cargoes particularly clothing for

;

;

:

;

where the army was securely posted, which Government of that trouble. Sugars, rum, articles all of them much wanted molasses, and even tea would find purchasers, and be very acceptable they would be the means of procuring bread, flour, Indian corn, staves, to the places

would

relieve



;

shingles, &c., for the West-India Islands

;

the sloops-of-war

would protect trading vessels to diflerent towns and creeks on the rivers; detachments of soldiere might be sent to asTrade would thus be at least in sist the landing of goods. the choice of foes as well as friends, and tlieir necessitous situation \\ ould constrain them cheerfully to embrace it for

who can suppose

that the

naked would refuse

to

be

And thus the clothed, or the miserable to be relieved ? olive-branch would be held out to them in one hand, while the sword

is

kept

in the other:

let

them make

If they are determined to remain obstinate,

continue firm

;

and

I trust the contest will

their option.

we have

only to be decided with-

LORD BARRINGTON'S MOTION FOR SUPPORT OF THE ARMY.

151

It cannot be doubted that further bloodshed. are loyally disposed, of whom there are many, want but a pretext to shake off their obedience to the resolutions of the Congress, to which they now submit through

much who

out

those

152

they could from HoUand and Germany ; and all the Colonies, \\ ithout exception, have discovered great partiality to

If you up your authority over the Colonies, it is losing the substance for the sake of the shadow it is sacrificing a lastcompulsion. As to the West-ImJia Islands, your effecting the conquest ing trade for a momentary, ill-judged tranquillity. You have been told, with apparent gravity, that "peace of even only two or three of the principal towns on the Continent would, in a great measure, furnish them with is in your power that you have only to embrace her to But consider what kind of peace is meant, possess her." this should be done with all the despatch posnecessaries With regard to our manufactures at home, (a no less and from whose mouths the voice of peace proceeds. Does sible. Does it flow from important object,) if the proposed exportation should take it come from tlie lips of bosom friends ? Is it not rather place, they would be kept in employment, and thereby those you have reason to believe sincere ? much uneasiness prevented. It is surely of the last conse- the language of mockers, revilers, and deceivers, of men Peace is recommended by fjuence that the distresses of the industrious part of the who wish your destruction ? nation should be alleviated to the utmost, and their affec- some right honourable gentlemen who tell you the DeclaraHow is this to be effected, tory Act (an act passed while they themselves were in tions to Government preserved. The manufactures office) means nothing. That act certainly meant something if no goods are to be sent to America 1 the intention of it must at least ought, neverthqless, to be purchased at the risk of the pub- at the time it was made have been a deception on this country, to palliate the dislick, and the goods laid up in store till a demand for them This is a common cause, and should be sup- grace of repealing the Stamp Act. Those advocates for a should offer. paltry and inglorious peace, seem to depend too much on ported at the general expense, if any should be incurred. they wantonly sport with the ConSir, I must beg leave also to mention the situation of their rhetorical abilities

the French Islands, in preference to the British. give

;

;

;

:

another class of

men

suffering great hardship



;

I

mean

the

North-America, whose fortunes not owing are locked up whilst the present disputes subsist to the want of inclination in their principal correspondents abroad to remit, for there are men of as great honour in North-America as anywhere, and who have sent all the merchants and traders

to

;

payments they could but in die present general confusion, which obstructs the administration of justice, a stagnation of payments follows of course. It is impossible for the mer;

chant, under these circumstances, to discharge his debts to the shopkeeper and mechanick, and this brings on a gene-

To remedy this evil, a committee of merchants,

ral distress.

not in the American trade, might be appointed to examine into the difficulties which the North-American merchants AVhat they want is money, or a credit for it, labour under. to answer their present exigencies ; and, I presume, they would be well satisfied with a sum equivalent to one-half of

what they are disappointed pose, I

am

persuaded a

less

Government,

sufficient.

To effect this

in.

sum than one

valuable pur-

million

would be

end, might issue

for this

bills

un-

der the sanction of Parliament, bearing four per cent, interest, to

be lent to such merchants as may be found entitled to under the stipulation of their paying the interest on

this aid,

the

bills

so lent, half-yearly, to the possessor of them ; it shall, besides his

being further understood, that the borrower

own

two

security, find

sufficient

bondsmen

to

be answer-

by endorsing the bills, for the repayment of the loan end of two years after peace is re-established with America, or with the particular Colony where any indiviStill further, in order to dual's effects may be detained. give full satisfaction, both to the holders of said bills and to the publick, they must be so qualified as to return on the merchant and his two securities, and be no longer passable after the two years are elapsed, from the time publick notice has been given that peace is restored, and courts of law open for the recovery of debts. In this, or some such mode, a very necessary piece of business might be transacted, without much, if any, loss to the publick ; and, indeed, no able,

at the

can happen, unless not only the merchant, but likewise My own both his bondsmen, should become insolvent. concerns in North-America are too small to induce me to propose this plan from selfish motives ; I hope, therefore, this House will do me the justice to believe 1 am only pleadloss

ing a general cause, from the satisfaction it would give me to be in the smallest degree instrumental towards promoting

her

sum

of

dominions, which

money

to

be lent to the merchants

prevented

the

ruin

of several

manufacturers and traders, who are afraid of the of dieir business, are much mistaken if they think it is to be preserved by a repeal of the acts complained of, or by a submission to the Americans. To rely on their affection to this country would indeed be to build on a sandy is

long been

in

notorious lo every merchant in the

Ame-

most northern of the Colonies have the practice of smuggling every article of goods tiic

Supposing those their country from imminent danger. mighty patriots were to prevail in the present struggle for power, and to have settled with the Americans upon their own terms, these honourable gentlemen, when in office, may again change their language, and tell the Provincials, Let the as they have told you, that they meant nothing. Americans trust them, if they will but as you have been already deceived by their dissimulation, it would be the height of folly in this country to put confidence in such men a second dme. You are upbraided with insolence, cruelty, and bloodshed. Ridiculous, false, unjust Did not the Rebels first begin the attack on the King's troops in both the engagements ? Admitting the Tea Act was wrong, does that justify the auda;

!

cious steps their lawless against it?

Can any

to show their resentment Government, even a mistaken

mobs took

act of

zeal for the authority of this country over her Colonists, jus-

the raising of armies, the concerting and conducting every other device of war, to resist the Legislature of this country ? Have they not exercised such cruelties over our loyal subjects as our most inveterate enemies would shudWill you not resent such inhuman acts, committed der at ? tify

on your defenceless friends and subjects, who have been (men, women, and children) driven from their peaceful habhations ? Did not the Congress firet, by their resolves, endeavour to starve your West-India Islands, and also to deprive your industrious manufacturers of employment ? Have they not, by every art, endeavoured to throw this kingdom into the utmost consternation and confusion ? Can you bear such repeated insults ? Can you, after so many and deliberate indignities offered you, treat with them but

who ought thankfully you may think proper to give

as with revolted, rebellious subjects, to submit to such conditions as

them ? I hope and trust the Ministry will continue firm, and that after ages shall not be able to say, that in die days Let us be of George III America was lost to England. steady in pursuing the interests of this country, but at the same time merciful and forgiving. It is more than probable that the ringleaders in this mischief are but few in number;

they can be laid hold of they deserve no mercy; convince the lower class of those infatuated people that the imaginary liberty they are so eagerly pursuing is not by any means to

if

do more

The

It

merely with the view to over-

turn the present Ministry, under the pretence of rescuing

in

loss

rican trade, that

this great nation,

of

them.

foundation.

of

to that which the Constitution of this happy Patience and percountry already permits them to enjoy. The severance in this great work are absolutely necessary. time does not yet seem to have arrived for the Americans to acknowledge their error. The natural course of things will

This is no new the happiness of the British merchants. thing in the commercial world, for within these few years the Empress of Russia, at a time of general distress, ordered a considerable

stitution

be compared

Where is the necessity for you than great armies. It is even belter to risk a war also with your real of haste ? enemies, than to end the present contest in a dishonourable,

Some things require great and disgraceful way. The more time you others, mature deliberation. take to settle these controversies, you will obtain the better Negotiations for peace resemble transactions in terms. he who is most eager to buy or sell usually makes trade pitiful,

despatch

;



the worst bargain.

This country, when united, which

it

certainly

must be

in

I

1

LORD BARRINGTON'S MOTION FOR SUPPORT OF THE ARMY.

153

cases of necessity, where the well-being of the nation is at stake, is always able to defend herself a met the severest reprehension for attempting to deliver opinions which were deemed subversive of the rights of the people and, in a subsequent reign, (that of Charles II,) we likewise see instances when great men were impeached before Parliament for high misdemeanors in carrying on the administration of justice. These, and other innumerable examples to be found in your annals and codes of Parliament, sufficiently evince that no official influence, no honorary dignity, could, in the days of our ancestors, screen the infractors on the lawful tranquillity of the subject from punishment, though they were the nearest servants of the Crown, and illumined with Sir, I am well aware the brightest rays of kingly favour. that the malversations of Government have, in the detail, been usually brought as a heavy charge upon the Minister that they have been only, keeping clear of the Monarch imputed to a De Vere ; a Le Despcncer ; a Bishop Laud with their such incendiaries, Father Peters and had to a ; ;

||

;

base adherents, been timely and voluntarily given up for a but the atonement might have stopped there

sacrifice,

;

Prince on the throne, fascinated by a false glare of prerogative, and plumed with towering notions of his divine vicegerency, could not be prevailed upon to withdraw his auspices from the proper authors of publick calamity, till an injured and enraged people were driven to the necessity of bringing home the sum total of grievances to the account of Majesty itself. Hence followed social warfare, rivers of blood, and dethronements. Is there an unprejudiced person in this House, endued with a toleiable share of discernment, who, dark as the political horizon around us now is, cannot discover further mischief to be complotted on the basis of these transatlantick piracies ? Are we, sir, to remain silent and passive till an army of civilized Britons, in compact with the barbarians of Russia, shall have enforced and perpetuated slavery in all our American Colonies? till your Popish brigades have taken good account of the liberties o{ Ireland! till a moun• Earl of Suffulh, Lord Chancellor, Duke of Ireland, Archbishop of York, and others.

Empson and Edward Dudley. Bacon, Lord Verutan. Lord Keeper Finch, Judges Davenport, Cra-wley, Berkley, &c. § Chief Justice Scrogs, Sir Francis .Yarth, Sir Richard J1'eston,Slt

\ Sir Thomas i

II

Thomas

Jones.

ALDERMAN OLIVER'S MOTION FOR AN ADDRESS TO THE

245

taineer militia pours this Island

of

?

till

in

upon us from

nortiiern confines

tlie

the mercenaries of a

German

Electorate

have assumed the guardianship of Fortsmouth, Flyfor they may mouth, and the rest of our seaport towns? lawfully do so, according to a very learned gentlcn)an of the long robe, on the other side of the floor, (Mr. IVcddcrbum] shall have united to till, I say, all these motley legions accomplish the hopeful purposes of such zealous addressers Then as appeared in the London Gazette of last week ? * shall



KL\G.

246

not, midst the arcana of their Cabinet, they, like the Cata/?«« junto, pass from lip to lip the chalice, filled with human

blood, as a pledge of secrecy and ccHoperative zeal, and to " rivet them to coercion," Is best known among themselves ;



if any one may judge by the diabolical creeds which they have not scrupled to avow, such may well be the cup Men of affluent incomes they have of their sacrament. among them, yet chiefly from the stipends of office, not a patrimonial inheritance, nor the fruits of an honest industry.

hand of vengeance and outlawry fail upon the scattered, helpless corps of petitioners, throughout the those unreasonable petitionei-s several counties oi England

converts of note, taken

but

We

to a Prince of the Brunsivick family, in behalf of

them the credit for a few renegade upon the Sherwood -Forest system of policy, in the days of Robin Hood, who recitiited his troops from time to lime wilh such needy strag

J

So

Sir

House

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

049

S

^

in the affirmative.

Ordered, That the co])y of a Treaty between his Majesty and the reigning Duke of Brunswick, signed at Brunswick, the 9th o( January, 1776, and Translation, together with a Paper intituled " Note concerning the Levy Money," and Translation, be referred to the said Committee. Ordered, That the copy of a Treaty between his Majesty and the Hereditary Prince of Hesse Cassel, signed at Hanau, the 5th q( February, 1776, and Translation, be referred to the said

Committee.

4,

1776.

Whitworth, according to order, rej)orted from the Committee of the Whole House (to whom it was reSir Charles

Supply granted to his Mawhich the Committee had directed him to report to the House; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the Clerk's table, where the same were read, and are as followeth, viz Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that a sum not exceeding three hundred and eighty-one thousand eight hundred and eighty-seven Pounds four Shillings and five Pence halfpenny, be granted to his Majesty for defraying the charge of twelve thousand three hundred and ninety-ibur men, the Troops of the Landgrave o( Hesse Cassel, in the pay o[ Great Britain, together with the subsidy for the year one thousand seven hundred and seventyferred to consider further of the

jesty) the Resolutions

pursuant to Treaty.

six,

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that a sum not exceeding one hundred and twenty-one thousand four hundred and seventy-five Pounds twelve Shillings and one Penny, be granted to his Majesty for defraying the charge of four thousand three hundred men, the Troops of the reigning Duke of Brunswick, in the pay of Great Britain, together with the subsidy for the year one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six, pursuant to Treaty. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that a sum not exceeding nineteen thousand and six Pounds nineteen Shillings three Pence and three Farthings, be granted to his Majesty for defraying the charge of a Regiment of Foot of Hanau, in the pay of Great Britain, together with the subsidy, pureuant to Treaty with the hereditary Prince of Hesse Cassel, from the sixth day of March, one thousand seven hundred and seventy -six, to the twentyfourth day of December following, both inclusive, being two hundred and ninety-four days. A motion was made, and the question being put. That the said Resolutions be now read a second time. Colonel Barre pointed out several objectionable passages in the treaties. Allowing the hiring of Ibreign troops, even for argument sake, to be a wise and politick measure, he

desired to

know,

in

the

instance, as the treaty provided

fii-st

emolument that natives are allowed, and to be put on a footing, in every re-

that the Hessian officers should have every spect, with our

own

whether the two-pences, was meant to be included and, likewise, where the clothing was to be procured whether in Germany or in Britain 1 He was very jocular tried veterans,

in the clothing to the Colonels,

on

°°

288

Monday, March

of military profit and said, he did not doubt of human blood would turn out as advantageous to the woollen manufactures of Bfunswick and Hesse, in the this species

but

;

this sale

clothing branch, as

it

was already

to their respective Sovereigns.

might probably continue

in

difficult to fix the period,

on

bore

now

to mention.

If,

likely to

He

become

lucrative

observed, that the treaty

force for four years, for

many

then,

was

it

accounts, which he for-

by any accident

arising

from

defeat, pestilence, or the danger of the seas, the Hessians should be reduced to eight thousand men, (perhaps to half their

number

or less,) in such a possible, nay,

all

circum-

stances considered, such a probahle event, he should be glad to be informed by the Minister, or his trusty friend the

Ordered, That the Estimate of the charge of twelve thousand three hundred and ninety-four men, the Troops of the Landgrave of Hesse Cassel, in the pay of Great Britain, for the year 1776, pureuant to Treaty, be leferred to

Minister of the War Department, who now and then steals a peep into the Cabinet, though he is never permitted within the hallowed door, whether the Landgrave of Hesse or Duke of Brunswick is to have the full pay, as if their re-

the said Committee.

spective quotas continued

Ordered, That the Estimate of the charge of four thousand three hundred men, the Troops of the Reigning Duke of Brunswick, in the pay of Great Britain, for the year 1776, pursuant to Treaty, be referred to the said Com-

question will be

mittee.

Ordered, That the Estimate of the charge of a Regiment of Foot oi Hannu, in the pay of Great Britain, pursuant to Treaty with the Hereditary Prince o( Hesse Cassel, from 6th March, 1776, to 24tli December following, both inclusive, being two hundred and ninety-four days, be referred to the said Committee. Ordered, That the. Estimate of the charge of six Regiments of Foot from Ireland, and of several augmentations to his Majesty's Forces,

from the respective times within mentioned, to the 24th December, 1776, inclusive, be referred to the said Committee.

full and complete? Lord Barrington could not answer that question till he had taken time to consider. After a little pause, his Lordship said, the best time to answer the honourable gentleman's

Mr.

when such

J. Johnstone said,

happens. deal with and though a

a reduction actually it

was impossible

people wiio thus played at cross-purposes

;

to

young member, he ventured to pronounce it to be the fii-st time such an answer was given in Parliament. He remarked, it was no bad beginning. The noble Lord used to pretty liberal of his be proniises but so many of them had ;

been lately either falsified or overruled, his Lordship, he presumed, was determined, in future, to make only such as he was certain could neither be falsified nor contradicted for his promise, if it could be at all called one, was such that, let the event be what it might, he could not possibly be charged with a breach of it. ;

TREATIES FOR THE HIRE OF TROOPS TO ACT AGAINST AMERICA.

289

Lord Clare said, it was the first time lie ever licard a Minister called to promise for events it was impossible for force now sending lo Amemight not suffer the loss of a single man but, in either event, it was plain that we should not be obli'^ed to pay for more men than were in actual service. Sir J. G. Grijin allowed that the noble Lord's observaIt could not be supposed that we were tion was very just. to be at the expense of recruiting, and be obliged to pay for levies that were not complete; but yet it seemed a little extraordinary that the noble Lord in otlice should have expressed himself so cautiously on a matter, which, if it had not been mentioned, did not, in his opinion, leave the least foundation for ambiguity or misrepresentation. Governour Johnstone was severe on Administration whether we had a double Cabinet, or had not, he would but he was certain that we had not pretend to determine

any man

The whole

to foretell.

rica might be cut

or

oft',

;

a double Administration, or the faces, according as

it

vours, that such foreign Troops as are now, or may hereafter be employed in bis service, be clothed with the manufactures of Great Britain." It

it

;

answered

same men presented two their

One

or suited their present views.

j)resent

convenience,

Minister [Lord Hills-

borough] assured the Americans, in the most solenm manner, that it was never the intention or wish of this country to tax them. The other [Lord North] had the other night, in debate, openly and decisively declared, that America ought and should submit to be taxed by the British Parliament, and to every law this country might think proper to

290

was resolved

the affirmative.

in

Ordered, That the said Address be presented to his Majesty by such members of this House as are of lib Majesty's most honourable Privy Council.

HOUSE OF LORDS. Friday, February 10, 177G.

The Lord mand) "

Viscount Weymouth (by his Majesty's com-

laid before the

Copy Duke

House

of a Treaty between his Majesty and the Reign-

of Brunswick, signed at Brunswick, the 9th of January, 1776 and Translation. "Note concerning the Levy Money; and Translation. " Copy of a Treaty between his Majesty and the Landgrave o( Hesse Cassel, signed at Cassel. the 15th of Januing

;

ary, "

1776

Copy

;

and Translation.

of a Treaty between his Majesty and the Heredi-

tary Prince of Hesse Cassel, signed at

February, 1776

And

;

Hanau,

the 5th of

and Translation."

the Titles thereof being read

by the Clerk,

Ordered, That the said Treaties do

lie

on the table.

pass for her future government and regulation.

General Conway observed, it was true enough that the noble Lord [Hillsborough] had broken his word with A^nerica ; and so had Administration, as approving of the Circular Letter, in which every claim to taxation was formally appeared to him from the very beginning, whatever assurances to the contrary might have been given or held out to the present moment, that what the country gentlemen avow to be their motives for prosecuting the war against America, were likewise the great objects Administration had in view. Administration told the country gentlemen. Support us, and we will ensure you a revenue from America. The country gentlemen are now giving that support, in expectation of getting a revenue, of which, perhaps, they will never see a shilling or, if they should, never to be of the least service in lightening those heavy burdens of which they now so loudly complain. Mr. Fox attacked the Minister on his frequent breach of promise ever since he came into office not but, in his opinion, he was full as much bound by a promise when he was only Chancellor of the Exchequer, as since he became first Lord of the Treasury. He was not deserving of the first, if he could retain an office, the very essence of which was to look into and take care of the publick finances of the nation, and yet permit a letter which at once gave up and surrendered so fundamental a right of the British Parlament as the right of taxation was now contended to be for either he approved of the letter in question, or he did not. If he did, how can he now come and contradict his former opinion, when he and his colleague's approbation of that letter is, perhaps, the very cause of the present civil war? Or, if he never approved of the letter, how could he, consistently with his own honour, remain in a situation in which he was virtually pledged for a true and faithful performance of its contents ? Why not resign, sooner than give his concurrence in Council to measures which he secretly disapproved ? Lord North denied that he was bound by any man's promise but his own. It did not become him to disclose

renounced

;

but, for his

part,

it

;

;

;

the secrets of his office, or betray the confidence that

had

been reposed in him. It was enough for him now to declare that he never gave either promise or assurance, and that, consequently, he had not broken any. The House divided. The noes went forth ^''' ^'*2/ Cbopcr, Tellers leiiers tor for tiie the veas jeas, ^ ^1^0 ^^^, j^^^^ ^.^ ^^^^^ _ _ ^ Toxvnshend, ^g Tellers for the noes, f'' Hussey, J?"'""^ Mr. :

Kg ^

(

So

it

was resolved

in

the affirmative.

The said Resolutions being accordingly severally read a second time, were, upon the question severally put thereupon, agreed to by the House. Colonel Barre. then moved, " That an humble Address be presented to his Majesty, humbly to recommend to his Majesty, that he will be graciously pleased to use his endeaFouRTH

Series.

—Vol.

ti.

Tuesday, March 5,1776.

The Order

Day

of the

being read,

for

the Lords to be

summoned

The Duke

of

Richmond moved, " That

Address be presented

to his

the following

Majesty," (videlicet:)

"Most Gracious Sovereign " We, your Majesty's most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Lords spiritual and temporal in Parliament assembled, humbly beg leave to represent to your Majesty, that it is with the utmost concern we have seen the Treaties which your Majesty, by the advice of your Ministers, has been pleased to enter into with their Serene Highnesses the Duke of Brunswick, the Landgrave of Hesse Cassel, and the Count of Hanau, and which your Majesty has been graciously pleased to communicate to this House. " We beg leave humbly to represent to your Majesty the sense we entertain of the danger and disgrace attending this inconsiderate measure, when it has been judged necessary, in the fii-st exertions of Great Britain to subjugate her Colonies, to hire an army^ of foreign mercenaries, acknowledging to all Europe that these kingdoms are unable, either from want of men or from disinclination to this service, to furnish a competent number of natural-born subjects to make the And it is a melancholy consideration, that first campaign. the drawing off" the national troops (though feeble for the purpose on which they are employed) will yet unhappy leave these kingdoms naked and exposed to the assault and invasion of powerful neighbouring and rival nations. " And we further beg leave humbly to submit to your Majesty, that if the justice and equity of this unnatural war was not questioned by so large a part of your Majesty's subjects, yet a reconciliation with the Colonies, though attended with some concessions, would be more agreeable to sound policy, than to entrust the prosecution of hostilities to for-

whom we

cannot confide, and who, when they own country, and suffering under the distresses of war wherein they have no interest or concern, and with so many temptations to exchange vassalage for freedom, will be more likely to mutiny or desert, than to unite faithfully, and co-operate with your iNIajesty's eigners, in

are at so great a distance from their

natural-born subjects.

"

we

We ought

not to conceal from your Majesty the anxiety

on the

latitude of the articles in the several treaties

feel

which

power in your Majesty of employing any part of Europe. Means are hereby prointroducing a foreign army e^en into this realm

stipulate the

these troops in

vided for

and we cannot so far confide in your Majesty's Ministers, as to suppose they would be very scrupulous in advising such a measure, since they have already introduced foreign troops into two of our strongest fortresses, and have offered to bring four thousand more foreignei-s into the kingdom of Ireland, without the consent of the British Parliament. "That we have, moreover, just reason to apprehend that

when 19

the Colonies

come

to

understand that Great Britain

TREATIES FOR THE HIRE OF TROOPS TO ACT AGAINST AMERICA.

291 is

forming alliances, and

destruction,

example

tlu'v

may

tiiink

hiring

foreign

troops

for

tiiey are well justified

tiieir

by the

endeavouring to avail themselves of the like and that France, Spain, Prussia, or other Powers of Europe, may conceive they have as good a right as Hesse, Brunsivick, and Haiiati, to interfere in our domestick quarrels; and if the flames of a war from these proceedings should be kindled in Europe, which we fear is too probable, we reflect with horrour upon the condition of this country, under circumstances wherein she may be called upon to in

assistance,

resist the formidable attack of powerful enemies, which may require the exertion of her whole force, at a time when the strength and flower of the nation is employed in fruitless ex-

conduct of Administration, and the means hitherto adopted in the prosecution of the war, as directly applied to them. The first ground he took was, giving a short history of the several treaties entered into with the Landgraves of Hesse, beginning with that made in the year 1*02, and ending with those several explanations and modifications of that made at

commencement of the late war, and down so late as the when his Serene Highness was indemnified for

the

year 1761,

the losses sustained in his Landgraviate, by that country being frequently made by the enemy the seat of war. In historical

this

detail

his

Grace showed

that the successive

Landgraves, from time to time, rose in their demands, and still as they continued to extort better terms, they never failed former extortion as a precedent

peditions on the other side of the world.

to establish the

" That the treaty, by stipulating not only to give to the Landgrave of Hesse, \n case of attack or distm-bance in the possession of his territories, all the succour which shall be in your iMajesty's power to give, but likewise to continue such

the succeeding treaty, always taking care to

succour until the Landgrave shall have obtained entire secu-

kingdom under a upon the continent, in which bis Serene Highness may happen to be engaged, and that without any equivalent consideration to make the contract reciprocal, as this Island can expect no assistance in any of her wars from an inconsiderable sovereignty in the heart of Germany, from which more troops are already drawn than she is able to replace for her own defence, and whose revenues are not suflicient to maintain even those she rity,

and a

just indemnification, lays this

necessity of taking part in every quarrel

has lent, without the aid of subsidy.

We conceive, therefore,

engagement of Great Britain to defend and indemmust be considered as part of the price she is to pay for the hire of these troops. If this article of charges (which cannot be estimated) be added to the enormous expenses of levy money, charges of making good the losses of the several corps, ordinary and extraordinary subsidies, and their that this nify,

continuation after the troops are returned to their respective



and can be of no use to Great Britain, we may say with truth, that Great Britain never before entered into countries,

a treaty so expensive, so unequal, so dishonourable, and so

dangerous in its consequences. " We therefore humbly implore your Majesty to give immediate orders for stopping the march of the Hessian, Brunswick, and Hanau Troops, and for a suspension of hostilities in America, in order to lay the foundation of a speedy and permanent reconciliation between the great contending parts of this distracted empire." It was moved, " To agree with the said motion."

The Duke of Bichmond again rose, and apologized for the trouble he was going to give their Lordships. He expressed a consciousness of his own inability, and a wish that more equal mendous crisis a

others

to the task liad stood

forward at this trecrisis which he feared would decide the empire forever. He lamented the absence of the Marquis of Bockingham and the Earl of Chatham. The latter, when this nation was on the brink of destruction, rescued it from impending ruin; and not resting there, gave a lustre to our arms, and an efficacy and steadiness to our councils, never before known in the annals of this country. The other of them, a noble Marquis, [o{ Bockingham,] who, in a season of publick distraction, presided at the head of the national councils, with honour to himself and satisfaction to the nation and though his Administration was of but short continuance, had the good fortune to quit his station with a consciousness of having healed those unhappy disputes which threatened the empire with the most serious and alarming consequences; but which have since broken out with redoubled vigour and malignity. He was aware how much he should feel the absence and consequent support of the two noble Lords, in prosecuting the business of this day but however unequal to the attempt himself, he deemed it a part of his duty, and without considering minutely all the consequences, he should, in discharge of that duty, abandon and renounce every collateral consideration whatever, and do what he could, instead of effecting what he might wish. The justice of the American war, the rights of the mother country, and the claims of America, had been so frequently ;

fate of this great

;

and so amply discussed, that he should avoid, as much possible, every fact and argument that could possibly tend

as to

introduce those subjects into the present debate. He should endeavour to confine himself to the terms of his motion respecting the treaties, and only advert to such parts of the

292

demand on

this

the present.

for

the basis ol

make some new

This, he insisted, was the case of preceding treaty to a subsidy added its

country.

The

continuance to a certain period. sideration doubled the subsidy.

The one now under

conHis Grace then entered into several con>putalions on the different heads of pay, levy money, subsidy, victualling, and transport service for the troops, which he affirmed would amount to one million one hundred and sixty-nine thousand pounds, and that this, with transport service for die victuallei-s, would make one million two hundred and thirty thousand pounds and if the other articles under the head of contingencies, Sic, were included, the expense of which could not now be ascertained, he had little doubt that the whole would be full one million and a half. He contended that this was a most enormous sum for the assistance of only seventeen thousand three hundred men, an expense, he would venture to maintain, considering the number to be employed, not known in the history of mankind. Those matters, however serious in the present miserable state of our finances, and the enormous load of publick burdens we groan under, were not what pressed so forcibly on his mind. It was the tenour of the treaties, the ambiguous terms they were worded in some places, the dangerous precedents they established or glided in, that principally called forth his attention, and gave rise to his fears. He observed with grief and the best founded jealousy, that an overruling influence had for some years pervaded our councils that this influence had been exercised in effecting meathat it sures of a most dangerous and dark complexion sometimes made its approaches by stealth, at other times rendered itself visible in open day, and proceeded to acts of violence. Hanoverians had been brought into the dominions of the British Crown, without consent of Parliament. An attempt was made to introduce a body of foreigners into Ireland, which miscarried. He understood that the same attempt would be repeated, though he did not pretend to it matter authenticate as a of fact. And if any doubt remained, the present treaties afforded ample matter for serious alarm. In the first place, he observed that they were formed on no sound principle of alliance or reciprocal support. It is true they were said to be formed on the basis of mutual succour and support, but those expressions imIt was ported nothing they were mere words of course. a downright mercenary bargain for the taking into pay a certain number of hirelings, who were bought and sold like There was no common inso many beasts for slaughter. and if there was, terest which mutually bound the parties the conduct of the foreign Princes was the most extraordiThey were to be subsidized. nary that was ever known. They were to have levy money. They were to have a double subsidy. Their corps were to be kept up complete. They were to be paid till the troops returned to their respective countries; and the subsidies were to be continued, according to the tenour of the respective treaties, one or two years after the troops ceased to be of any service to us. But taking it on the other ground, that the treaties were formed on the true basis of alliance, what would be the consequence ? That if any of those Powers were attacked, or should wantonly provoke an attack, for the engagement was left general and unconditional, we should give them all the succour in our Thus, for the assistance of a few thousand foreign power. mercenaries, we are not only to pay double, but are to enter into a solemn engagement to exert our whole force, to give them all the succour in our power, if the Landgrave or Duke shall be attacked or disturbed in the possession of his domi;

;

;

;

;

nions.

His Grace begged next

to recall to the

memory

of their

TREATIES FOR THE HIRE OF TROOPS TO ACT AGAINST AMERICA.

293

294

Lordships, the language held by the friends of tlic present Me said a very measures towards the close of the late war. in'fcnious gentleman [Mr. Mauduit] at that period wrote a pamphlet, entitled " Considerations on the German War,"

Lordship would explain this last official riddle, and fairly, and with his usual candour, inform the House, whediur those arrangements originated from him, or whether he was

he introduced several computations of the cost of and made it amount to every French scalp to this nation lie then^fore recommended ten thousand pounds per head. to the noble Lords, who then approved of that gentleman's estimate, to consider what an American scalp would cost,

This changing, appointing, and supei-seding, besides the it denoted, presented another matter well worthy It showed that the service their Lordships' consideration. was disagreeable on one hand, or that the superior officers were passed by and neglected on the other. He said, there were some officers of long service and tried abilities present, He as well as several others of high rank in the army. would be glad to know from them, what were the inolives that induced Administration to pass by the senior officers, and devolve the command upon a very young Major-Gencral. He knew that it must proceed either from an aversion to the service in them, or a total want of respect to their persons from those in power. Much stress had been laid on the justice and popularity

in wiiich

;

when seventeen thousand

foreigners

would stand us

in at

the

He ohserved he one million and a half per annum. had many noble Lords in his eye, who |)rofessed themselves of that opinion. One noble Lord, now absent, [Lord Bute,] made use of the very arguments here adverted to, in debate, and a noble Duke, [o( Bedford,] now deceased, maintained the same opinions. He remembered, a little after, when we were victorious in every quarter of the globe, when all we wanted was money, and all we had to contend with was climate to prevent us from possessing ourselves of the whole of Spanish America, the same two noble Lords and their friends justified the peace, on no other ground but our inaThey allowed that conquest was bility to raise new taxes. Where, certain, but that the national debt was enormous. then, was the material change of circumstances, after the conclusion of the present campaign, when the debt, which was, after a thirteen yeare' peace, not reduced above seven millions, where the conquest was not certain, and where if it were, it would be a conquest over our own subjects, operating to our own ruin, unaccompanied by either fame or Would not we, then, as at the close of the last advantage ? war, be in a situation when even to prosecute certain conquest would be the height of folly and political phrensy? His Grace remarked on the danger of keeping a body of twelve thousand foreignei-s together, under the absolute command of one of their own Generals; of the possibility, though he should consent to serve under a junior officer, of and of the confusion his arriving to the supreme command which might be created by a difference on this head, between the foreign General and the Commander-in-Chief. He laid great stress on that passage in the Hessian treaty, in which it is provided. Article 9th, " that his Majesty shall make use of this body of troops by land in Europe wherever he shall He said he could not see what operations judge proper." they could be employed in, unless it were in this country, rate of

;

in

case of a rebellion or a revolt, which none foresaw but

The

the advisers of the present measures.

foreign troops

be double officered, which was another weighty and useless expense that is, every company of one hundred men were to have two Captains, two Lieutenants, two Second Lieutenants, and two Ensigns, and so in proportion of servants, &:c.; so that, out of the whole number, upwards of three thousand men were not to be rank and file, contrary to every rule of war, which, in a given number of men, endeavours to render the rank and file as numerous as the nature of the service w ill possibly allow because it is on them that the weight of attack or defence generally rests. It is so in our own troops, and has always been an established usage, never to allow more than four officers to a corps of one hundred men. His Grace made some observations on the supercession of the several officers in the naval and military departments, in which he maintained, that nothing hke it had ever happened in the British service, without complaints or without inquiry. Great faults had been found with General Gage and Admiral Graves ; the miscarriages which happened were imputed to their want of conduct yet no charge is made against them, but they are recalled. To keep up the farce, the former is received coolly, but in a few days after a new commission is made out, appointing him Commanderin-Chief; and in a few days again, without any cause even pretended, for there could be none, as he remained on the spot, he is superseded, and General Howe appointed in his Yet that is not the best of it Admiral Shuldham room. is appointed to succeed Admiral Graves; but before he could take possession of this command he is supereeded, and Ijord Hoive appointed in his room. Such an extraordinary conduct was surely never known but perhaps the supei-seded Admiral might think himself easy under this indignity, if what was reported was true, that he was to be created an Irish Peer. For the honour, however, of the noble Lord at the head of the Admiralty, he hoped his

were

to

;

;

;

;

;

really overruled in the Cabinet.

instability

of the present measures.

He

should not debate that subject

was said that the independent part of the nation for them but he questioned the assertion strongly in the extent it was contended for in the other House, he was informed that the Treasurer of the Navy, (Sir Gilbert Elliot,) and the Paymaster of the forces, (Mr. Rigby,) the one denow. were

It

;

;

and consequence from the Cabinet, and the in measures which, if pursued, must shortly be the means of procuring for them princely fortunes, were those who chiefly supportThose gentlemen and their conneced coercive measures. tions, with the whole race of money-jobbers, contractors, &c., he believed, formed no small part of the "independent" majorities which had been so loudly echoed both within and without doors, as precipitating this country into a cruel, expensive, and unnatural civil war. He observed, that the war, if carried on, would not only be a war of heavy expense and long continuance, but would be attended with circumstances of cruelty, civil rage, and devastation, hitherto unprecedented in the annals of manWe were not only to rob the Americans of their kind. property, and make them slaves to fight our battles, but we made war on them in a manner which would shock the most barbarous nations, by firing their towns, and turning out the wretched inhabitants to perish in cold, want, and nakedness. Even still more, this barbarick rage was not only directed against our enemies, but our warmest and most zealous This he instanced in the late conflagration of the friends. loyal town of Norfolk, in Virginia, as Administration had so frequently called it, which was reduced to ashes by the wanton act of .one of our naval commanded. Such an act was no less inconsistent with every sentiment of humanity, It would turn than contrary to every rule of good policy. the whole continent, as well friends as foes, into the most It would incense our implacable and inveterate enemies. friends, and render our enemies at once fierce, desperate, it would cruel, and unrelenting. It disgraced our arms render us despised and abhorred, and remain an indelible blot on the dignity and honour of the English nation. His Grace stated some passages in the treaties, and commented on them very fully, where such passages explained mattei-s which might be productive of disagreements between the foreign and native troops, and stated the omissions that had been purposely or ignorantly made, particularly in regard He said that matto a cartel for the exchange of prisoners. and if any puter had been totally passed over in silence nishments should be inflicted on those who, by the language of Pariiament, were called Rebels, the consequences might be dreadful. He alluded to the case of Ethan Allen, who, riving his support

other from his party, and both deeply interested

;

;

being found

in

arms, was brought

home

prisoner; yet

Ad-

even under their favourite Act of Henry VIII, either because they knew that he could not be legally tried, or feared an .En^/wA jury ministration dared not bring

him

to a trial,

Be that as it could not be prevailed on to find him guilty. may, the present treaties were extremely defective in that point

;

mined vour

and to act

if

Administration were not obstinately deterin every particular, they would endea-

wrong

to provide against the

numerous inconveniences which

from a want of a cartel. He concluded, by informing their Lordships that what he was now going to state might be deemed improper, as exposing our national weakness but if it was essentially

must

arise

;

necessary, he presumed that objection would be removed

;

TREATIES FOR THE HIRE OF TROOPS TO ACT AGAINST AMERICA.

295

and if the objection could be removed on the ground that France was perf-'clly acquainted witii tlie present state and condition of tiie national force now within the kingdom, that would be another good reason that nothing respecting our means of defence should be concealed. He then said, that the whole of our military force, now within this kingdom, consisted of the foot-guards, composed of sixty-four companies, amounting to two thousand five hundred men, one thousand of which were destined for America; three regiments of horse and body-guards, of about one thousand five hundred men four battafions returned from America, with ten regiments of officei-s only, at about one hundred each and three complete dragoons, of two hundred men each the whole amounting, (allowing for batmlions of infantry, the one thousand men drafted from the guards,) to about seven thousand men. Supposing, then, that three thousand of those were put into the garrisons of Plymouth, Portsmouth, and Chatham, the remainder fit to take the field, after a sufficient number was left to guard London, allowin" one thousand for each place, would not be above three thousand which, he contended, would be totally inadequate to any military operation, sliould France and Spain think proper to take an advantage of our defenceless state. He said, indeed, that a Militia was to be raised, in order to supply this deficiency but however constitutional that mode of national defence might be, he insisted that it would never answer any purpose of repelling a powerful enemy, while it continued to be so disgracefully and improperly conducted as it was at present, when imqualified officers were admitBesides, ted on one hand, and substitutes on the other. though the Militia had been officered and manned much could not be expected that they could it better, face a veteran army, superior in numbers and discipline. And as for the invalids, every man among them almost fit for so that, on the real service, had been already drafted whole, the picture which such a scene of internal weakness, joined v»'ith a few ships not half manner, presented, was most dreadful. It was, however, necessary to bring it forward, to see if anything could stimulate our Governours to provide for our national safety, and prevent us from falling a prey to our dangerous and ambitious neighbours. The Earl of Suffolk. I cannot say, my Lords, that the noble Duke who made the motion has stated one solid ob;

;

;



;

;

;

jection to the present treaties, or pointed out a single instance

which our former

treaties with those

Princes have been His Grace has taken great pains to swell the account by several items, which, according to my apprehension, do not properly belong to it but if they did, they would not prove a tittle relative to the comparative dearness or cheapness of the terms on which the troops have been procured. The tenour of the treaties themselves in

materially departed from.

;

what has been usual on former occasions. is true, is filled with pompous, high-sound-

are no other than

The

present,

it

ing phrases of alliance confess to the noble that light

;

and,

those treaties

is

body of

hire a

if

;

but

Duke,

he

will,

troops,

that I

I

allow that the true objects of

much

not so

be so ingenuous as to consider them merely in

I will

to create

which the present

rica has rendered necessary.

an alliance, as to rebellion in

Ame-

likewise give this general answer to his Grace, relative to the comparative expense, I will

war be terminated in one year, the bargain be manifestly advantageous, because we shall pay but one year's double subsidy, which is equal to two years sinIf the war should continue two years, in that gle subsidy. event we shall neither gain nor lose, because two years double subsidy will be equal to four years single, the usual that should the

will

term stipulated in former treaties and if the war should continue longer, I confess that the terms would, in that But, my Lords, though the event, be disadvantageous. ;

terms were really as disadvantageous as the noble Duke has endeavoured to represent them, if we wanted the troops, we should have been obliged to acquiesce. The proper question

is.

Whether we do want them?

one, that

I

were able terms

I must declare for and as such, am happy that we procure them on such easy and beneficial

think to

we do

;

circumstances considered, such as the very short notice, the disagreeablencss of the service at such a distance from home, to be transported across the Allantick ;

for all

Ocean, induce me to be surprised, not that we were obliged to pay so dear for them, but rather serve to astonish me how we were able to procure them so cheap. Besides, the

noble

296

Duke seems to forget, that even on his own principles much more proper to be employed in this war

foreigners are

than natives

for if the war be just, of which I have no doubt, and that troops must be employed, and that foreio-n-

ers

;

can be more easily had than natives, the measure

will

follow of necessity, and can be fairly justified on that ground.

The noble Duke,

alluding to a passage in the Hessian treaty,

says, that the troops being under the officer,

the supreme

command

command

of a senior

of the whole army will nathe British Commander-in-

turally devolve on him, when Chief happens to be a junior officer. I do not pretend to speak from my own knowledge, but I w ould appeal to any noble Lord in this House acquainted with military matters, whether the commission given a Commander-in-Chief does not supersede any other and whether of course a young Major-General, acting in that character, will not thereby have an absolute and supreme command over every officer in that service, be his rank what it may. The noble Duke says we brought over Ethan Allen in irons to this country,' but were afraid to try him, lest he should be acquitted by an English jury, or that we should not be able legally to convict him. I do assure his Grace, diat he is equally mistaken in both his conjectures we neither had a doubt but we should be able legally to convict him, nor were we afraid that an English jury would have acquitted him nor, further, ;

:

;

was

it

out of any tenderness to the man, who,

had justly

1

maintain,

laws of his counBut I will tell his Grace the true motives which intry. duced Administration to act as they did we were aware that the Rebels had lately made a considerable number of forfeited his life to the oflended

:

and

we

accordingly avoided bringing him to his trial from considerations of prudence from a dread of the consequences of retaliation not from a doubt of his legal guilt, or a fear of his acquittal by an English jury. The noble Duke has quoted one instance to show that the expense of foreign troops has been increased, because they were double officered. I do not pretend to speak directly as to the necessity of such an arrangement but I have no doubt but it is agreeable to the usage of the Hessian service, and, as such, is no more than what has been agreed to by former treaties. The Earl of Coventry. I do not rise to speak expressly to tile present treaties, further than they relate to the measures now pursuing relative to America, which, for the reasons so often urged by me, I shall ever continue to think impolitick and unwise, and, as such, shall declare my hearty prisoners,



;

;

disapprobation of them not that I think the wisest or best concerted measures that were ever planned can avert the ;

destruction which, from the nature of the increasing power,

wealth, and population of the Colonies, inevitable.

is,

in

my

opinion,

the body politick as in the natural body,

It is in

the seeds of dissolution are contained in the

Sooner or

first vital

event must happen

prin-

and no more and attention, joined with the best native constitution, may do to prolong the other. If you look on the map of the globe, and view Great Britain and North-America, and compare if you consider the soil, the harbours, the extent of both rivers, climate, and increasing population of the latter, nothing but the most obstinate blindness and partiality can prevail on any man to entertain a serious ojiinion that such a country will long continue under subjection to this. The ciples of both.

the greatest stretch that

later the

human wisdom can

effect

;

is

than to prolong the duration of one, as the greatest care

;

question is not, therefore, how we shall be able to realize such a delusive scheme of dominion, but how we shall make it their interest to continue faithful allies and warm friends. Surely that can never be effected by fleets and armies. On the contrary, instead of meditating conquest, and exhausting our strength in an ineffectual struggle, we should vote a thanksgiving, and wisely abandoning all wild schemes of coercing that country, we should leave America to itself, and wish to avail ourselves of the only substantial benefit we can ever expect to derive from it, the profits of an extensive conmierce, and the strong support of a firm and friendly alliance for mutual defence and assistance. It has been my misfortune, when I have formerly spoken on this subject, to be misunderstood by a learned and noble Lord I now see in his place, [Lord Mansfield.] His Lordship supposed, that I wished for a separation of the two countries, purely to convince America of her weakness and inability to subsist without us, and that with an expectation of her

I

TREATIES FOR THE HIRE OF TROOPS TO ACT AGAINST AMERICA.

297

afain returning to her former subordinate situation. The noble Lord, I have no doubt, understood nie in that sense but ;

I trust his

Lordship

me

do

will

the justice to believe that I

meant no such thin^. I thinli sucii an union impracticable, and I think, too, that, sooner or later, a formal separation must take place. In such an event, I allow, it would be the mutual interest of both countries to be connected by every in short, to be united tie of alliance and friendly intercourse in everything but the same Government. ;

I trust 1 shall obtain credit when Earl of Carlisle. assure your Lordships that no consideration whatever

The

I

made,

if I

me

give a negative to the motion now had not been perfectly satisfied of the necessity

should induce

to

It is not, in of the measures carrying on against America. opinion, a mere question of party, but involves in it the consequences of the total ruin or salvation of this country. If we should concede, so as to relinquish every substantial benefit which we might derive froin our political sovereignty and commercial control over our Colonies, what will be the

my

probable consequence, but that this country, deprived of the advantages of an immense commerce, and everything flowing and connected with those advantages, will gradually sink into obscurity and insignificance, and fall at length a prey to the first powerful or ambitious state which may If we consider the meditate a conquest of this Island ? present state and condition of several of the great Powers of Europe ; if we reflect on their strength and immense re-

sources

;

if,

viewing the map,

we

see the figure Great Bri-

tain cuts in respect of extent of territory;

we

if

collect the

whole into one focus, and connect the ideas of their strength, and our own native imbecility, should America be torn from us, the prospect

is

indeed dreadful.

It is, therefore, in

my

opinion, a measure not only necessary to the vindication of

our honour, but even essential to our very existence as a people. It calls on us to exert every power, and strain every nerve, to bring America back again to her duty, and to secure to us her subordinate dependance. On this ground,

am warmly

measure proposed to be have not a doubt of the necessity of coercive measures in the present state and disposition of America ; and under that conviction I am persuaded that the number of hands required to carry on our manu-

and

this alone, I

rescinded by this motion.

factures,

the

little

use of

for the

I

new

levies,

at least for the

first

campaign, and the desire every friend to his country ought to have to put a speedy termination to the present unhappy troubles, united, create an evident necessity for the

employment of

foreigners, in

preference to native troops.

Besides, consider only the unwieldly bulk of this vast extended empire, and the operations necessary, even in case of

a defensive war, and determine,

be possible, for such an in the nature of things, to furnish numbers sufficient to carry on operations the nature of such a service demands. His R. H. the Duke of Cumberland. My Lords, I shall if it

inconsiderable spot as this Island

is,

of the American debate, which has been so ably discussed by your Lordships but as I have constantly opposed these oppressive measures, I heartily not enter into the whole

field

;

concur with the motion made by the noble Duke, because it is full of respect and duty to the Crown, strongly reprobating the misconduct of Ministers, and laying the basis for a happy reconciliation between Great Britain and her Colonies. jMy Lords, I lament to see Brunswickers, who once (to their great honour) were employed in the defence of the liberties of the subject, now sent to subjugate his constitutional liberties in another part of this vast empire.

The Duke of Chandos. The noble Duke who made the motion has charged the su]3porters of the measures respecting America, with favouring designs subversive of the of their country. I do assure his Grace, if I thought the measures he speaks of had any such tendency, neither liberties

])is

Grace nor any noble Lord

in

House would be them the least coun-

this

further than I from givino or affording

tenance or support. It is because I am fully satisfied that those measures are perfectly necessary and constitutional, that I have uniformly given them my sanction as a member of this House and I will add, that I am no less convinced :

of the propriety of the measures, than of the high integrity and abilities of those who have advised them. The noble

Duke

has thrown out the most unjust charges and ill-founded whole body of the Militia. As a Lord-Lieutenant of a very respectable County, I find myinsinuations against the

298

my honour as can answer for the corps which I have the houour to command and have reason to presume it is universally so throughout the service, that no oflicers but such as are duly qualified to serve are and look upon

self included in the censure,

very materially wounded.

I

am

certain

I

;

admitted.

Duke within

therefore

I

totally

is

my own

am

mistaken

authorized to say, that the noble so far as has

in his assertions,

knowledge

and have a

;

come

prfsume

right to

that he has been equally mistaken as applying to every

other corps

in his

The Duke

Majesty's service.

oi Manchester.

My

Lords, after the long and

accurate detail given by the noble Duke, of the treaties

now

your Ix)rdships by a recapitulation of particulars nor, indeed, do I think it very material to except against particulars of a treaty, where the whole appears to me greatly reprehensible, or to cavil with Ministers on little articles, whilst charges of a heavier nature may be laid to their account. The information given to us in his Majesty's speech at the opening of the session, of the introduction of foreign troops into the garrisons of Gihraltar and Mahon, without the previous consent of ParliaThe unconstitutional docment, gave me a serious alarm. trine held in this House, setting up the power of the prerogative above the power of Parliament the attempt to introduce foreign troops into Ireland, without even asking all concur to bear the opinion of the British Parliament, strong testimonies, that an abridgment of British, as well as American liberty, would not be disagreeable to some of before the House,

will not detain

I

;

;



our present rulers. Long has this nation survived the loss of that liberty which was once the lot of her neighbouring European kingdoms ; but, my Lords, there is at present such an indifference to serious things, such a love of ease and luxury, which gives to Ministers an almost irresistible sway, that I doubt this country is very near that crisis wh^ she will passively surrender all

those rights her ancestors held

most dear. My Lords, I am not vain enough to think that I possess any power of speech to awaken to publick zeal but, with your permission, I will submit to you some reasons, drawn from State policy and convenience, why we should not be too eager to push on this war. My Lords, whatever was the original cause of the war whatever were the claims oi Great Britain, or however unjustifiable might be thought the resistance of the Colonies to those claims, no impartial man can say, that in nothing has Britain been to But waiving consider blame. this disquisition, let us the ;



affairs. The events of the last campaign show us that the war will not be of very easy conclusion. Though we allow the British troops to have been successful at the attack on the heights of Charlestown, yet was that success dearly bought and greatly balanced by the

present situation of

loss of forts, of garrisons

fection from



I

The

might say, of nations.

Government has been

total



total,

my

de-

Lords

;

for besides the desolated prison of the British troops, (the

devoted Boston,) and the town of Halifax, kept in awe by a large garrison, what remains to Government, of all the continent of America, as far as British Colonies extend ? Nay, my Lords, the misfortune has spread farther the conquests of the last war, so dearly rent from France, are mouldering from us and though we have reports that the Provincial arms have met a check at Quebeck, great part of Canada owns another master. Still we are bent to push on an invading war against a powerful enemy, with every circumstance against us but the advantage of our fleet. Let us now consider the means we have to prosecute this war. The British troops, we find, fail not, my Lords, in point of courage but they show an honest backwardness to engage :

;

;

against their fellow-citizens.

To Germany we

have recourse

seventeen thousand German mercenaries are at last obtained ; with these and a small British army, many of whose regiments consist entirely of recruits, some ot whom are of the worst description, (for I have been told that even the prisons have been ransacked to augment the number,) is this country to engage a nation who are enthusiastick in have no hopes but in success ; are united by their cause every tie have every stimulative to courage that shame or The mercenaries ambition can give an army of brothere. we employ (for they may be justly called so, since that for assistance

;

;

;

man must

be deemed a mercenary soldier

who

fights for

pay

the cause in which he has no concern) are a motley band of various nations, who are yet in Germany, and are \"et to be conveyed across the Atlantick. Some will perish in the in

TREATIES FOR THE HIRE OF TROOPS TO ACT AGAINST AMERICA.

299

way, some desert. But on the American shore

suppose the remnant landed immediately follow ? Lnpossible to expect it. If the Generals know tlieir duty, (and we have no reason to doubt it,) the first employment they must have will be to secure a post, in case of disaster, to establish a place of arms, to endeavour to form magazines else whence can this army be supplied with provisions? Is h (lom England? From l\m Eiiglish Heel} The :

I will

complicated destruction.

will coni|uest

Government will remain in they expect that any one, blessed with common sense, will espouse their cause, when they do not protect those who mean obedience ? My Lords, I am, for these reasons, a hearty supporter of the noble Duke's motion, and particularly because it leads to that peace that all must allow desirable. I am the more earnest, as I am convinced it is still to be attained. Provoked as the Americans

;



cannot go up the rivers fleet cannot sail within the land so that the army, witiiout magazines, cannot possibly quit ;

the coast, and great part of the campaign must be spent Lords, we must look upon this war in preparations.

My

as a

Americans the dignity of Government requires to be

war of conquest.

as Rebels, that

too late to treat the

It is

They are a powerful nation, a formidable eneThe army must be divided, for many are the forces whom they are to engage. Are we certain that even

punished.

my. with

the troops proposed to be employed will not be opposed by

numbers

greater

the

war

Can we conceive one campaign can end

?

?

My

Lords, there is another very material consideration, on which I will touch but gently, for I wish not to add to Are Ministers ceitain they are prepared embarrassments

this

;

campaign promises to swallow up the whole of that saving. Thus, in point of revenue, are we in the situation we were But we have lost the American at the end of the war ?

The trade of the last year, supply the Spanish flota and the demands through RusThe one is over the sia, will be no lasting resource. trade without an equivalent. to

;

I

am

The

informed, declines.

additional

to anticipate the taxes

the

if

;

Bank

lend the assistance of their credit

if

;

should be induced to the taxes should fall



if any unforeseen calamity should happen, might not the publick credit receive as rapid a shock as within these few years befel the India Company ? short, In my Lords, the difficulties are so numerous, that one should be

short

;

inclined to think

wisdom of our

some

fatal

evil

influence confounded the

My

counsellors.

Lords,

I

read in



;

;

when Ahab, for his sins, was devoted to destruction, the host of Heaven was assembled before the Lord, and the Lord said, " Who will pereuade Ahab to go up and war against Ramoth Gilead, that he may fall there ? And an go

forth

Go, and thou

shalt

evil spirit said, I will

Lord I

said,

hope, be thought

British nation.

It

irreligious,

and persuade him. And the persuade him." I shall not, if I apply this allegory to the

does seem as

if,

in

])unishment for their

were condemned to go and war against their brethren in America, and to " fall there." I wish the application may not prove just and yet, my Lords, everything gives it the appearance of truth. No measures taken to bring the war to a conclusion no plan effective to force the Americans to accept the terms we are pleased to prescribe a war of detail, of partisans, that can lead to nothing but to perpetuate rancour and animosity. I am informed, by the late despatches from Virginia, that the Governour, who has long quitted the residence of his Government, to hold his state aboard a cruizing ship, has had the notable success of firing the town of Norfolk, the largest in Virginia. I make no doubt he has a commission for what he does I do not mean his commission of Governour, for that is a commission to protect those over whom he is appointed to but a commission to destroy, to burn the towns, to preside ravage the plantations, drive off the slaves, and to kill those that resist. These are the warlike achievements of the Governour of Virginia. But as I do not doubt he has orders for what he does, far be it from me to condemn an absent man but I cannot think well of those who from hence connnand this wanton ruin, this unnecessary ravage, this offences, they

;

;



;

useless desolation.

My

Lords,

must further take notice of one extraordinary town was supposed to contain many friends of Government and yet such is the determined vengeance, that even friends are fired upon in hopes of hurting the enemies intermixed, and all are involved in one particular

:

I

that this

;







;

My

The much

Lords, Eari oi Effingham. of your Lordships' time than

less

on the exorbitant terms of the

who moved

shall

I

up

take

expected

I

to do,

noble Duke,

treaties, as the

the address, has already sufficiently proved the

I shall only make one observaon the subject, which is, that if these seventeen thousand men have the effect we are promised they shall, of subduing the Americans in one campaign, their pay, together with the subsidy, and the excess of the levy money above what is ever allowed in England, would furnish the pay and clothing of forty thousand men, with their proper

unreasonableness of them. tion

officers.

On

the legality of these treaties, I shall trouble your

Lordships a

The

first

little

longer.

and most

striking point

is,

the administration of

justice being reserved to a foreign Prince, within the

domi-

Crown

of Great Britain ; the better to effect which, an executioner, with servants, is part of the Hessian nions of the

establishment to be levied by Great Britain

;

and no ex-

ception or limitation of this illegal power seems to have been thought of, even in case the civil Government should be restored in America.

The

Holy

Writ, that

Can

1

have been, they wish for reconciliation. They dread to be They would even buy thai forced into independency. peace, not at the price of their liberty that must be secured their purse and property must be their own to them but I have good grounds to think, could they be certain of being dealt with by people who were sincere whom they could trust they would submit to all necessary regulations of commerce nay, more, they would assist the State with a revenue: but they must raise it themselves; they must not My Lords, when men are in such a be taxed from hence. disposition, I will add no more but that if we blindly reject the value of that people we thus fornot know them, we do ever wantonly cast from us.

tax laid

upon land, will, it is supposed, not pay the expense of the conveyance of the troops. If Ministers should be obliged

Ministers think that, after

proceeding, one friend to

America

:

The great annual outgoings expenses of the war? (the publick debt) were, at the close of the last war, thought a sufficient reason for accepting a peace, certainly inadeIn thirteen years' peace, quate to the glories of the war. some saving has been made the expense of the ensuing for the

other,

Can

300

second great consideration

commanding

is,

the probability of a

America ; for though it has been said that the commission of Commander-in-Chief will entitle our young Major-General to the command, yet it foreign General

will not, I believe,

him, though in the

it

Hessian

make

in

a senior officer of spirit serve under

may make him treaty, there

is,

retire

from the army.

But,

besides the Lieutenant and

Major-Generals, a General commandant. two Sosias to settle the matter ? 1 confess

How it

are these

appears to

me

liable to great confusion.

With regard tacked,

it is

to the stipulation

not a just

of assisting Hesse,

if at-

war alone which we have engaged

to

for a case enter into for the protection of the Landgraviate may happen, in which, by a decree of the Imperial Cham;

ber, the Directors of the Circle are ordered to march into the country, to compel the Landgrave to some act of justice or in which case he will be, according to the restitution eleventh article, " actually attacked by force of arms, with;

first used open force against him who attacks him ;" and we must either excuse our breach of the treaty by our Minister's ignorance of the Imperial Constitutions, or not to maintain, else enter into a war like that in America but to subvert the liberties of the Germanick body. With regard to the latter part of the motion, for suspending hostilities, I should think myself unpardonably tedious were I to go o\'er again all the argimients which show the I shall only state to your Lordinexpedicnce of the war. ships, in addition to what I and many others have said before, some information which I have received from the best authority, respecting the resources of the Provincials, and which I should think it my duty to lay before the House, even if it did not come immediately within the subject of The first of our great mistakes seems our present debate.

out having



When the General be in the number of their people. Congress had ordered returns of the number of inhabitants idea prevailed that these returns were in each Province, an It was proved at Bosto be the measure of their quotas. to




1300

necessary to transport

Provisions for ten thousand men /com Albany to specifying the manner in which it is conveyed.

Ten thousand weight Ten thousand weight Add for Sundries,

----------------------------

privates,

at Stillvjalcr of \m\iiU'.H,

p^^^^^ Schuyler.

To

of

Half-Moon of

566

be wanted

is said, more of and very soon too. respectfully, dear sir, your Excellency's most most am,

humble

u,Ui-inl

1776.

son less than

of British and foreign troops are des-

there,

obedient,

guard at

MAY,

Crown Point, Fort George should not i)y any means have a

by that means.

If such a

tined for

A

fcc,

434 66 500

nished, to lay

them up

for the winter.

The soldiery would

willingly purchase one pair, if the Convention

would allow

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

567

them

another, which would enable

to

be clean and com-

am, with much regard,

sir,

your very obedient, humble

servant,

To

Resolved, unariimously, That we will support the meanow adopted at all hazards, be the consequences what

-^V.

"'^y-

t'l'^y

Philip Boehm, Chairman.

Smallwood.

Tliomas Johnson, Esq.

MEETING OF COMMITTEE OF PRIVATES.

The Committee M.UIVLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO NORTH-CAROLINA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Annapolis, May 25, 1776. [No. 159.] are informed by jMr. Hugh Young, Gentlemen: to this Prothat five hundred weight of powder, belonging

We

atNcwbirn, in North- Carolina, from St. EusVanbihhcr, on board of ^rtr/fl. shipped by Captain Abraham You will probably want the powder, thereCaptain Luce. removal, but will fore we have given him no orders for its exchange, if you think proper, for the same quantity, to be delivered us by your Delegates at Philadelphia. vince, arrived

We To

the

Annapolis,

rXo. 160]

the river Patapsco.

May

25, 1776.

We

are,

As

May

25, 1776.

the Congress have desired the battalions of Asand near the City and Liberties to have their

drawn out as early as they can on Monday mornand propose with the Generals now in town to attend the review at nine o'clock, I have it in command to order you to draw out such of the Continental troops as have arms, and form them in battalion with the Associators aforebattalions ing,

am,

sir,

your most obedient servant,

John Hancock,

To

the

Commanding

President.

Officer of die Continental

Troops

in

Philadelphia.

NORTHAMPTON COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) ASSOCIATORS. At

Second County o( North-

a meeting of the Associators belonging to the

Battalion,

and

others, inhabitants of the

ampton, near to Laivrence Good's Plantation, in Whitehall Township, May 27, 1776 consisting of about nine hundred



men. Major Philip Boehm being unanimously chosen, was ed

in

seat-

the chair.

The Resolve of Congress of the 15th instant being read, w\is unanimously approved of. Tile Protest of the 20th instant, of divers inhabitants of this Province in behalf of themselves and others, to the honourable the Representatives of Pennsylvania, being read, was unanimously approved. It being moved, and the question thereupon put, Whether the present Government is competent to the exigencies of our

"Resolved, unanimously. That we join with you, gentlein your Protest, and the late Resolve of Congress for totally suppressing all power and authority derived from the Crown of Great Britain, and the contents of the above-

men,

same with

To

youi-s. '

t j Jamison, c ben.. John

r> 7 „ President. •

the Committee of Privates, Philadelphia.

NEW-YORK COMMITTEE. Commitlee-Chamber,

Whereas

May

25, 1776.

information has been given to this Committee,

upon Mr. Alsop and acquaint him therewith. Mr. Dunscomb and Mr. Berrian having waited upon him, report, That Mr. Alsop is desirous to be called before this Committee, requesting, at the same time, that Colonel Loti and Mr. Van Ahtyne (from whom the report was said to have originated) might be ordered to attend also. Colonel Lott attending this Committee, says That Mr. Alsop told Mr. Van Ahtyne that he could not sell his Tea :

for less

than six shillings per pound, being a

company con-

Mr. Van Ahtyne replied, What can I get, then, by Mr. Alsop then answered, that he could retailing it again ? not tell, but that he had been told some persons charged That Mr. Alsop said he would be glad for bags and twine. to receive one shilling and three pence, hard money, for the Tea, to pay a debt contracted by Congress in Canada. IMr. Lott told him he had about three hundred pounds in NewYork and Jersey. Mr. Alsop answered, he would rather take Continental, as that would pass better at Philadel-

cern.

said. I

due and mature deliberation on the aforesaid papers, unanimously entered into the following Resolutions " Elizabethtown, May 27, 1776. after

that a report

Philadelphia, :

City and Liberties, with

is circulating greatly to the prejudice of John Alsop, Esq., respecting the sale of some Tea, and his refuContinental Money for the same sing Resolved, That ]\Ir. Dunscomb and Mr. Berrian wait

&c.

Captains Sand, Ridley, and Mawhray.

FROM THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Sir

this

the copy of the Protest entered into, the Proceedings of the publick meeting held on the 30tli ultimo, and the alarm,

:

;

sociators in

Committee of Privates of

the

"Resolved, unanitnously, That we w ill support you in the measures you have now adopted at all hazards, be the consequences what they may, as our views and interests are the

This Board have been requested by the You Convention to countermand your orders for sailing. are tlierefore not to move from your station till you have furor if you have moved, you are to return into ther directions

Gentlemen

of Privates of Colonel Bartraim Gal-

hraitlis Battalion having received the Circular Letter from

mentioned papers.

are, &ic.

Committee of Safety o{ North-Carolina.

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAINS SAND, RIDLEY, AND MAWBRAY.

To

568

1776.

sures

fortable. I

Lc, IMAY,

affairs ?

The same was

carried in the negative unani-

mously. Resolved, unanimously, That a Provincial Convention ought to be chosen by the people, for the express purpose of carrying the said Resolve of Congress into execution. Resolved, unanimously, That a reasonable number of the Committee of Northamjiton County be appointed (by the Committee) to meet a number from the other County Committees, at Philadelphia, the 18th day of next month, to hold a Provincial Conference, in order to determine upon the number of which the Convention for framing a new Government shall be composed, and the manner in which they shall be elected. Resolved, unanimously. That the Chairman be directed to sign these Resolves on behalf of this present assembly.

phia.

Mr. Fow-f^&Cyjie attended this Committee, and says: That he went with Colonel Lott to Mr. Alsop to purchase Tea. That Mr. Alsop told him it was six shillings per pound, half hard money; that he wanted to procure hard money for the Congress, to discharge a debt contracted in Canada ; that the examinant asked Mr. Ahop how he could sell die Tea

he paid six

for six shillings, if

shillings for

it.

That Mr.

answer, that he might sell the Tea for six shillings, and charge for the bags. Mr. Ahop being sent for, attended, and confessed the truth of Mr. Lott's evidence, but docs not remember that he told Mr. Van Ahtyne he might sell the Tea for six shil-

Ahop made

and charge for the bags, as mentioned in Mr. Van Ahtyne' s information, but might have said he heard it was done and if he had said so, it was not right, and he was

lings,

;

sorry for

it.

The Committee tion,

and debates

taking the above matters into consideraarising thereon, the following questions

were put 1.

Whedier Mr.

gress in the sale of

Ahop has Tea ?

violated the Resolve of

Carried

Con-

in the negative.

Whether Mr. Ahop has violated the Resolve of ConCarried gress in asking hard money on the sale of Tea ? '2.

in the negative.

Mr. Alncr then moved, seconded by Mr. Harper, That Committee should be published. Debates arising thereon, and the question being put, was

the Minutes of this

carried in the negative.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

569

Friday, June 7, 1776.

Whereas several persons wlio have been called before this Commitlee for violating the Resolves of Con;,'ress in the sale of Tea, and depreciating the Continental Paper currency, alleii^ed in their justification the example and recommendation of John Alsop, Esq., a member of the Continental Congress Resolved, therefore, relative to tlie inquiry

handed up

to the

That made

the Minutes of this Committee into

Mr. Alsop's conduct, be

Provincial Congress.

Extract from the Minutes

Josh. Winter, Secretary.

WILLIAM SMITH TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS. Manor of St. George, May 25,

Gentlemen: The Committee

of Brookhaveii,

1776.

Manor of

George, and Patentship oi Mcritchcs, met the 23d innumber of evidences being sworn, it appeared manifest to the meeting that there was a communication from ITmthrop's Patent and the ships of war lying at the Hook it appeared also one Gycr, a skipper, had carried last Saturday at least eight or ten oft' a number of men night, the most of them from Connecticut or Westchester, who had been skulking in the woods a considerable time before they went off". There are missing from that patent at least three or four persons, who are supposed to be gone with them in particular, one Fountain, a gunsmith. Gyer has been several trips out at the Inlet, and when returned gave no satisfactory account to those who asked him where he had been, and, it is thought, has carried people to the menof-war before, as people have come from the main shore to Stony-Brook, and then gone through the woods to Winmen have been seen with arras who were throjj^s Patent unknown to the inhabitants, and have given so great uneasiness to the people that they have called on the Minutemen and Militia for assistance there have been fifteen St.

A

stant.





;



:

:

Minute-men

Monday.

stationed there since last

It is

sus-

pected, besides men, they get from that quarter water, oysand clams, which are there in the greatest plenty. As

ters,

the Minute-men are such persons

who

are carrying on busi-

ness in the farming way, and cannot leave almost, if not quite, ruining themselves

and

home without families, I

was

ordered by letter to lay the affair before the Congress, not doubting (if they thought proper) they would report the same to the Commander-in-Chief. It was thought by the Committee that a small armed vessel stationed at or near the Inlet (where the sounding eight to twelve feet)

as I

is,

am

informed, from

would answer the purpose

best.

Peo-

much

alarmed, especially since we that they have on board the men-of-war those

ple in these parts are

now know who are thoroughly

acquainted with the navigation of the

South Bay. Pray let us hear from you soon. This Committee have collected between forty and fifty guns for the use of troops, which are much better than 1 could expect, and will soon be repaired. The greatest sticklers for Ministerial measures step toward the Continental as fast as could be expected in this quarter. Gentlemen, I am, with the greatest respect, your very humble servant, William Smith.

To

the Provincial Congress

At a meeting of

now

the Joint

sitting in

New-Yorh:.

Committee of Brookhaven,

Manor

of St. George, and Patentship of Mcritches, convened on the 13th o( May, 1776, John Woodhull, Esquire, in the chair, and twenty jMembers present: Sundry evidences being called to discover the secret plots and misconduct of sundry evil-minded persons Mr. Daniel Nash, being sworn, deposeth. That he heard Andrew Fatchin say, as he was going home from the general training, the Congress goes on as they ought not to do, and damned the Congress in all their unlawful proceedings, and :

much more unfriendly discourse. Mr. Nathaniel Finch, being sworn, deposeth. That he heard Andrew Fatchin damn the Congress, and used them with very abusive language, and was a mind that all present (being a considerable number) should agree with him to resist and oppose the Congress, and all military officers, and

MAY,

fcc,

1776.

570

others holding commissions under the Congress

;

he particu-

damned Colonel William Fluyd, saying he came home from the Congress on purpose to make disturbance, and the larly

devil would have him, for he would go to hell for what he had done, and so would Captain Nathan Hose and Lieutenant William Baker, and jjersuaded all present to ar'ree to go to no more trainings, saying neither he nor any of his should, and said all those who would not so agree were worse than Infidels. At another meeting of the Committee aforesaid, convened on the 23d o{ May, 1776, John Woodhull, Chairman, and

sixteen

Members

present

Mr. Joseph Ruland, being sworn, deposeth, That he being with his vessel, a few days past, in the South Bay, against Hempstead, and being on shore, a man (to him a stranger) offered him (the said Ruland) nine dollars to carry him (the said stranger) on board the ship Dutchess of Gordon, to see Governour Tryon ; and that said stranger inquired of him (the said Ruland) if he knew one Nathan Gycr, o( Blue-Foint ; and so deponent answered Yes upon which said stranger asked him if there were not some men with said Gyer, and if said Gycr had not carried them on board the ships of war, saying those men were his, belonging to his company, which he said was then full to which said Ruland answered. That there was a considerable num;

;

ber of

men

hood of

(said to be

from Connecticut)

in the

neighbour-

and he believed Gyer had carried them but he did not know where.

said Gycr,

off in his boat,

Mr. Henry Huhe, Junior, being sworn, deposeth. That he was an apprentice to Stephen Fountain, who was gone from home, and carried with him his gun and powder, and had sent him (the deponent) home to his father's, to stay until times were settled and that a number o? New-England people had staid in that neighbourhood, being to him strangers, who were often in private conference, in private places, with said Fountain, and would not let him (the deponent) come near them, nor hear what they said and that they are now all gone, he supposeth, in company with Stephen Fountain. Mr. Seth Scrihner, being sworn, deposeth. That Lazarus Gyer (son of Nathan Gyer) came to his house and staid all night with his brother, Ebcnczer Scribner, and were much together in private, and that now they are both missing, and that a number of others are gone also, namely, Eliakim Jones, Stephen Fountain, Jonathan Baker, Junior, Joseph Scribner, Andrew Fatchin, and others, but he knows not where, and says that if there were any private plots among them, they would not, he supposeth, let him know of it. Mr. Joh?i Smith, of IVinthrop^s Patent, deposeth. That Nathan Gyer and his wife told him (the said John Smith) that Captain Jonathan Baker had urged said Gyer to go off and that speedily whh his vessel, lest he should be taken said Baker told said Gyer he came to him on purpose to hurry him (the said Gyer) off, lest a mob (meaning a party of Minute-men sent by the Committee) would catch him, this being the last time said Gyer went from Blue-Point with his vessel and that the time before, he (the said Gyer) told the deponent that said Baker, as a Committeeman, gave him (the said Gyer) liberty to go out with his vessel, and hurried him away, saying Humphrey Avery, one of the members of this Committee, had a warrant from this Committee for him (the said Gyer.) Mr. Daniel Davis, Junior, being sworn, deposeth. That ;

;

;

;

he was, not long since, at the south side of the Island, in com|5any with Captain Jonathan Baker, whom he heard say he must go up and see the Tories and, being in discourse, one word brought on another, until Captain Jonathan Baker said, with a resolute voice and in a disaffected manner, that if the Congress threw off' dependance upon Great Britain, he would oppose them, and swore, by the living God who made him, he would beat up for volunteers to raise a company to oppose the Congress in tliat case, ;

and w ould do

it if

they quartered or cut him in inch pieces

for so doing.

used

At another meeting of the said Committee, assembled on the 4th o( June, 1776, fifteen Membei-s being present, and Josiah Smith being chosen Chairman pro tempore : Mr. Ananias Smith, being sworn, deposeth, That Cajjtain Jonathan Baker, in discourse with him, owned he gave

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

571

liberty to go out with his vessel the last time but one, and that' said Gijer and his wife told him so too; and that when said Gi/cr was getting ready to go the last time, he (the deponent) was very uneasy, having heard

Nathan Gyer

very credibly that several strangere were in the place, whom he feared said Gijer had agreed to carry on board the ships

of war, and went to Mr. Humphrey Avery to have the vessel of said Gyer prevented from going out which not being likely to be eftt^cted, ho, to be further satisfied, went and watched the shore until about nine or ten o'clock in the evening, when he saw the boat of Captain Jonathan Baker go^from Daniel Nash's Landing, (whom he expected ;

had "harboured these Tory strangers,) full of men, (as he took it.) and went round until against the house of Nathan Gyer, and alongside of said Gycrs vessel, which he thinks they went on board of, and thereupon heard a gun fired on board said vessel, which he supposeth was a token for said Gyer and others to know they were got on board, and for them to come also. And said deponent saith, that the wife of said Gyer told him since that her husband, with two stranrrers, and others, went out of the house to go on board the same time the said gun was fired and that, in justification of her husband, she said that Captain Jonathan Baker, one of the Committee, had given her husband leave and liberty to go this last time with his vessel and passengers and the deponent declares, that from the foregoing, and the manner and situation in which he saw the boat of Captain Jonathan Baker next morning, and many other circumstances which were to him very strong and convincing, he iudges, and does verily believe, that Captain Jonathan Ba;

;

And the said Ananias ker lent his boat for that purpose. Smith doth further declare, that he is a neighbour to Captain Jonathan Baker, and hath daily observed his language, manner of deportment, and general conduct, and doth seriously believe, from what he has seen of him, and from his general character, that he hath, for months past, spent the chief of his time in promoting of and carrying on a correspondence with our common enemies, and helping such amongst us to go on board the King's ships of war, and amongst the inhabitants him to be our inveterate enemy and hath heard him say there was no order in this Committee, (of which he was a member,) nor ever had been. Ephraim Marvin, Adjutant, being sworn, deposeth. That being sent by this Committee to Rockaivay, to see whose guns were on board the vessel of Nathari Gyer when taken there by the Riflemen, and to apprehend Captain Jonathan Baker and others, and give orders to others to apprehend and secure them, if hereafter to be found, the deponent daily busy in promoting disaffection

to the cause of America,

and

entirely believes

;

on his way thither he saw the horse of said Baker tied behind the house of Daniel Hart, and the deponent being alone, and apprehending said Hart would rescue said Baker from him (the deponent) should he attempt to imprison him, therefore the deponent went forward without discovering himself until he came to the Riflemen at Rockaway, who let him go on board the vessel of Nathan Gyer, which they had there taken with Nathan Gyer, Lazarus Gyer, and Ebenezer Scribner on board and the Riflemen showed him a number of guns taken on board, from which they conjectured others had escaped from on board before and the deponent saith, that they had taken the vessel upon examining and viewing the guns, he saw the guns belonging to and commonly used by Jonathan Baker aforesaid and Stephen Fountain, also the guns of Eliakim Jones and Joseph Scribner, and a number of other guns that he did not know, one of which was a Holland gun, with the upper side of the barrel flat from the lock to near the muzzle, and another that was a short musket with a brass And the said deponent round the stock below the lock. saith, that with three Riflemen, he went in pursuit of said Baker ; and coming near the house of James Morris, he saw said Baker start from the fore door, and run, as he supposeth, through the house, and from the back door northward towards the woods, but was catched by the And the said deponent declares that, from Rifle Sergeant. the best circumstances he could learn, said Baker and Fountain, and all the above-named men, with many others, had been on board the vessel of Nathan Gyer in her to have saith, that

;

;



a passage to the ships of war

in

the King's service.

&c.,

MAY,

1776.

572

Upon Adjutant Marvin\ declaring that the gun of CapJonathan Baker was amongst those taken on board Nathan Gyer, Captain Baker said he did not know how it came there, and that this was the first he knew tain

the vessel of

or had heard of his gun's being from home, and said it was then in his house. Upon which it was alleged, that before the sailing of Gyers vessel, he had told Jehiel JVeed (not

now

present) that he was going across his corn, and saw crows pulling it up, and went into the house for his gun, and it was gone, but who took her he did not know nor could not find out, but wished he could, saying he would not take ten dollars for it which allegation said Baker offered to declare was false, and that said Weed, if present, would say so too, and so settle the truth of the dispute. Mr. Josiuh Saturly was called and sworn, and deposed. That being at the house of Justice Samuel Tobey, on the 23d of May, 1776, he heard Captain Jonathan Baker there tell Jehiel fVeed that he was going, the other day, across his corn, and seeing the crows pulling it up, went into the house to get his gun, and it was gone, but who took it he said he did not know, but wished he did, saying he would not take ;

ten dollars for

it.

]Mr. Samuel Saturly saith, after being sworn, That he was also present, and heard the same discourse of Captain Jonathan Baker, as above related by Josiah Saturly. Ensign Benjamin Woodhidl, being sworn, deposeth. That

William Albertson, of Meichaboniack, on his return from Queen's County, told the deponent that he there met Captain Jonathan Baker, who, after other discourse, asked said Albertson if he knew Ludlee, the boatman, at Metchaboniack, and if he would hire said Ludlee and his periaugur for the use of some gentlemen belonging towards the west end of Long-Island ; and that said Albertson said he told said Baker he did not think Ludlee would be hired with his boat,

were very difficult apply to me, and I

as the times tell

him

to

and

;

Baker

that said

will insure her

;

this

said,

being

Nathan Gyer was taken at Rockaway. Mr. Garret Degroat, being sworn, deposeth, Tlrat while he was a soldier he had, with Francis Bartoe, the care of Captain Jonathan Baker, being ordered to keep him in custody and soon after taken, said Baker, upon coming to the fire in the house of Justice Samuel Tobey, he saw said Baker pull a paper out of his pocket, saying it was and the not a letter he had received from the men of war after the vessel of

;

;

deponent seeming to hesitate or scruple the truth of his word, thereupon the said Baker offered to let said deponent read it, but as the deponent reached out his hand to receive

You

it

to read, said

shall not read

it,

Baker for

flung

it is

it

only a

into the letter I

fire,

saying.

received from

Mr. JVilliam Smith ; and the deponent saith that the wriwas large and black, but saith he did not know the handwriting, neither did he read a word of it. Mr. Francis Bartoe, being sworn, saith he only, besides Garret Degroat, was present when Captain Baker burnt the letter or paper as related by said Garret Degroat, and that he (the said Bartoe) was not very near to nor in ting

reach of said

whether

it

Baker when he

was

burnt said

letter,

large or small writing, nor

nor observed

whether there

was much or little of it, but saw it burn. Mr. Philip Akely, being sworn, deposeth. That his son, John Akely, is from home, he knows not where nor what he says his after, and hath not seen him since Friday last son seldom goes much abroad, and that the last time he was from home before now, he was not gone more than six days, and that his son's gun is a short musket, with a if so long brass round the stock below the lock, and agrees with the description Adjutant Marvin gave of one he saw amongst those taken on board the vessel of Nathan Gyer, and the last time he saw it or knew of it was some time past, when it was carried to the shop of Stephen Fountain to be repaired. Mr. Stephen Akely, being sworn, deposeth. That Benjamin Smith has been much abroad lately, and that the last ;

;

time he came home he had been gone several days, and he understands he is gone again, and says it was reported he went to go on board the ships of war; he saith the gun of this Benjamin Smith (son of John Smith) is such an one as Adjutant Marvin described on board the vessel of Nathan

Gyer when

taken, having the upper side of the barrel

from the lock Holland gun.

to

near the muzzle, and

is

what

is

flat

called a

i

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY,

573

Alexander Smith doth declare the same.

1776.

574

they have a very small trifle of wampum, which is likely Indian affairs, but only for a scheme, under the pretext that they may pass willi the rest and we shall leave it to your judgment whether we shall let the fort be supplied as our enemies, or we shall do the best for the country and we expect a speedy answer what to do in so critical an

this

Lieutenant JViltinm Clarke, being sworn, deposeth, That from all appearances and circumstances, and what lie could learn, Stephen Fountain went on board the vessel o( Nathan Gyer for a passat^^e to the ships of war as an enemy to his country.

Mrs. Hannah Hawkins, being sworn, deposeth. That CapJonathan Baker came to their house when her husband was cone abroad, and she was telling him that she was very uneasy about the times, and amongst other things, she asked him. Supposing there are Tories amongst us when the King's tain

come, how will they get to them ? To which he answered. That one hundred and forty had asked him he also said, Tell your husband to that question already come and see me, and do you come also he also said. He advised all the Tories to obey all orders of the Committee, and sign all their papers whatever, and by all means be still at present she saith that she, at that time, did not think he troops shall

;

;

;

meant any harm. Mr. Robert Homan, being sworn, deposeth, That Captain Jonathan Baker came to his house, and asked him if he would not come down with Mr. Samuel Conkling, and help take the guard of Minute-men stationed at Blue-Point, sayin o' it was a poor notion of the Committee to send them and said that as they were young men that did not there know their duty, he believed a few old men would take their guns from them all. Mr. Matthew Beall, being sworn, deposeth, That the common report of Captain Jonathan Baker is, that he is an unfriendly person to the common cause of America yet saith he doth not know him to be an enemy, yet he does verily believe him one, from circumstances he hath observed in his deportment, dnd the manner of his spending his time amongst others who bear the same unfriendly ;

for

;

affair.

And

remain, with

all

respect, your most obedient,

By •'

To

order of the Committee:

r^

r

redekick

pised their conduct.

l"

ox.

Mr. Robert Yates Sir Please to deliver the within letter to the Committee of Albany, and desire their advice to the Committee of German Flats, and you will oblige, sir, your most humble ser:

:

vant,

,r V olkert

'

T>

r« r. Uouvv.

Albany Committee-Chamber, May 25, 1776.

Gentlemen:

We

have received your favour of the 23d have obtained, they were only to carry merchandise to trade with the Indians. You have therefore done well to stop them, as they had Your with them necessaries for the supply of the garrison. representation of this matter we shall transmit to General Schuyler immediately; however, we are of opinion, in case they leave the necessaries for the garrison, that you may let them pass with such merchandise as is manifestly intended for trade with the Indians. The moment we receive the General's answer, we shall transmit it to you for your instant.

By

the

passes the traders

further guide.

True

copies.

Attest:

Matthew Visscher,

;

.,

the Commissioners of Indian Affairs.

character.

Mr. Humphrey Avery, being sworn, deposeth, That he knows nothing of Captain Jonathan Baker of his own absolute knowledge that does positively prove him an enemy to his country, but that he hath observed many circumstances in his behaviour that hath given him (the deponent) strong suspicion that he is an enemy to his country, and is he saith that he heard said so deemed by common report Baker say there was no order in the Committee, and des-

hum-

ble servants.

To

German

the Committee,

Secretary.

Flats.

ELDAD TAYLOR TO BENJAMIN LINCOLN. Westfield,

Honoured Sir

As

:

soon as

I

May

25, 1776.

received the publick

mo-

Canada, I proceeded on my journey, arrived safe at Westfeld, and this week I continued my journey through the green-woods to Barrenton, where I intended to strengthen my guard but hearing that General Schuyler was not at Albany, but was gone up to the Lake, I doubted of the propriety of delivering the money to any other person, as iny order was to deliver it to Mr. Schuyler and take duplicate receipts of it and travelling now appearing more dangerous than common, I immediately sent fof Colonel Mark Hopkins and Doctor Whiting, to advise Mr. Hopkins came to see me soon, from whom I with. received the intelligence of a most hellish plot laid against the Province, as was supposed; which the Conmiittees of the whole County of Berkshire were then and had been some days sitting to search into, and to see what further discoveries might be made. Two persons, who had been ia the Army, were in the plot one was a Sergeant and the neys

for the troops at

;

This

may

certify, that the thirteen foregoing

pages con-

of true copies of the evidence of the twenty-two aforementioned witnesses, who were all regularly sworn and examined before the Joint Committee of Brookhaven, Manor of Saint George, and Patentship of 31er itches, and the evidence of each witness recorded upon the Record of said Committee and that at the examination of each of said witnesses, the sum and substance of what each declared was then so carefully recorded as that, upon distinctly reading to each witness what was recorded as his or her evidence, each of them declared that the Record so read was truth, and agreeable to their respective meanings. sists

;

Ebenezer Dayton,

Attest:

Clerk of the said Committee. June

14, 1776.

GENERAL SCHUYLER.

Albany Committee-Chamber,

May

25, 1776.

We

enclose you a copy of a letter from the Committee of Tryon. and our answer thereto from :

;

will perceive that we have promised them your answer, with which we beg to be favoured for that purpose as soon as convenient, or that you would forward it to them,

which you

as

you think proper. VVe are, sir, with much esteem, your most obedient, hum-

ble servants,

Abraham Yates,

To



other an Ensign.

The manner

of their leaving the

Army

I

must omit for brevity's sake but they say, on examination, as I was informed by Colonel Hopkins, that they heard one Brown, an officer, say that there were but two persons in the York Congress but what were Tories, and they had communication with the Asia ; and that the York forces were to be stationed, as many as possible, in a line of forts from Montreal to York, on Hudson's River, to cut off our communication with the Southern Governments as soon as matters were ripe, and the Ministerial troops were advanced ;

ALBA>fY COJIMTTTEE TO

Honoured Sir

;

Jun., Chairman.

General Schuyler. German

Flats,

May

23,

1

776.

Sir: This is to acquaint you that we did stop all the batteaus from here to Stanwix, and found the chief part of them is for supply for the garrison, as they are loaded with loaf-sugar, green tea, shoes, soap, spirits, wine, brown sugar, &.C., and such articles are no Indian supply but by ;

up Canada River.

The

said e\idences further say that

most of the towns on Hudson's River were in the combination, and then the King's ships might proceed up said river with safety.

How

far this intelligence

may

be depended upon

I

can-

not say, but there appears to be much secret riding in the The upper Y>^n of Berkshire night amongst the Tories. has set up a night-watch. The said watch took up McKay,

and absconded from Hartford, with one John Graves, from Pittsfeld, who %\ent to Hartford, as was supposed, and went through Westfield in the night and through the woods, as pilot to McKay. They sent them to Hartford. John Johnson and the Albany Tories, that broke his parole

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

575

Ranslcr and others, have fled to the westward, supposed to "father the Indians, and go down the St. Laurence River and meet the King's forces. Upon mature consideration, with advice of Doctor Jlhitino; I proceeded no farther witii the money, hut committed until I might have adit into the care of Colonel Hopkins, vice from the Council whether to proceed and deliver the money to any otlier pereon besides Mr. Schuyler, as there If I must are Mr. Sullivan and Mr. Trumbull in Allja7iy. I wait proceed to the Lake, I must have a strong guard. with hopes of speedy instructions and ordei-s what to do. It gives me pain to have the care of so much money. Query. Whether it is advisable to send the money until a further discovery or examination into the hellish plot be

made, though

doubt not but the money

I

is

much wanted

with the soldiers.

With the highest humble servant,

regard,

sir, I

am

your Honour's most

Honourable Council and the Great and General Colony of the Massachusetts-Bay, in

the

Court of the

New-England

:

These may inform your Honours, that whereas Stephen Parker went from Machias, with letters of recommendation from the Chairman of the Committee, to procure, if possible, and being then in great provisions for Machias aforesaid ;

want, he proceeded to Philadelphia, as he informs, and proves by letters brought, without any success and on his return back, being at Nantucket, he met with one Mr. Timothy Fitch, with whom he says he agreed to send provisions to Machias and take lumber therefor, in case that liberty could be obtained for the said Fitch to send the ;

lumber from Machias to the West-Indies. On account of which he, the said Parker, says that he sent from Nantucket to Watertoivn in order to obtain liberty of your Honours to trade to the West-Indies, but was advised not to mention it and then he, the said Parker, returned back to Nantucket, and engaged to take a brig belonging to the said Fitch and proceed with her to Cape Passue, in the Province o( Nova -Scotia, and there to sell off the provisions and buy a load of fish for the said brig, and procure a NovaScotia register which, he says, he went to Halifax and obtained, and then ordered the said brig to proceed to Ja;

;

But as there was some dispute about provisions being earned out of Nantucket without a permit from some of the Committees on the continent, said Parker applied, as we have been informed, to the Committee of Falmouth for a permit, which was granted accordingly, for the said Parker to bring provisions to Machias aforesaid, and then

maica.

he proceeded to Cape Passue as aforesaid, and dealt as aforesaid, without, as he saith, any intent of bringing the said provisions to Machias, except his commissions on the cargo, which he has actually brought in the whole or in part.

And

we have

thought proper to take the said Parker's notes of hand, which he had by him, into our possession, and them safe to keep for security that he should not de])art this place until your Honours' pleasure and therefore we take this opportunity to inform is known your Honours of our proceedings, and hope your Honours for the aforesaid reasons

;

will give us further directions, as you, in

your wisdom,

shall

think best for the peace and welfare of the United Colonies.

The

securities taken

amount

to

one hundred and eighty-

We

thought seven pounds fifteen shillings and nine pence. best to inform your Honoui-s, and not to send the person without it is required and we shall be always ready and will cheerfully obey your Honours' commands and any advice your Honours may think fit to give us will be gratefully acknowledged by your humble servants. ;

;

By

order of the

Committee

William Tupper, Machias,

May

Clerk.

85, A. D. 1776.

Whitehall, June 24, 1776.

The

following

in

the

letter

George Germaine, was

morning received by Lieutenant

1776.

576

transport board the Maria, opposite St. Ann's,

:

I

have

this

moment

May

25, 1776.

received an account

from Captain Forster, that he, with a detachment of the Eighth Regiment, some Canadians, and a number of Indians, had taken, the 19th instant, a fort at the Cedars, two pieces of cannon, and three hundred and ninety Rebels, The day following, a party of one prisoners at discretion. hundred and twenty Rebels crossed from the Island of Montreal to Kinchin ; those were attacked by IMessrs. Lorime.r and Mongtiny, defeated and taken. The small force that is already arrived is drawing nearer to the Rebels, to see if any assistance can be given to the King's good subjects above, who have begun rather sooner The Rebels are still numerous than I could have wished. in the Province, and talk of large reinforcements. I

Guy Carleton.

aiD, &tc.,

Lieutenant Fooks sailed from Quebeck on the afternoon of the 26tli of May, and gives an account that before his departure some Indians had arrived from the party at the Cedars, about eight leagues from Montreal, who informed

him that the Indians of the Western Confederacy were in motion to join the King's troops, and that a very large body He of them were within three days' march of the Cedars. adds, that the same night he left Quebeck he met the transports with the British Regiments from Ireland, under convoy of the Carrysfort and Pearl, and had no doubt of their and that, on his arriving at Quebeck the next morning arrival at the Isle of Coudre on the 28th, he found the transports with the Brunswick troops, under convoy of the Juno and Blonde, at anchor, waiting the return of tide, in order to proceed up to Quebeck, the wind being then unfavourable but that Lieutenant-General Burgoyne was gone before in the Surprise frigate, and probably would land at Quebeck on the evening of the 26th. ;

;

EDMUND PENDLETON TO MARYLAND CONVENTION. Williamsburgh,

Sir:

On Wednesday

May

26, 1776.

Lord Dunmore and the fleet at station and fell down into Hampton last

Norfolk quitted that Roads, where they remained till yesterday evening, when they got under way, apparently intending out to sea but this morning were discovered by our look-outs to have turned up the bay, and had passed the mouth of York River. I this moment received the intelligence, and thought it might be useful to communicate it to you by express, that you We have might not mistake it for some other armament. reason to believe they are much in want of provisions, and also that they are but weakly manned, as they burnt several small vessels before they left Norfolk, and three of a large ;

size just before they quitted the road.

The Roebuck

is

returned from Delmvare, and

is

with this

fleet. I

have the honour

to be,

sir,

your most obedient,

Edmund Pendleton.

To

the

Hon. the President of the Convention o{ Maryland.

THOMAS DORSEY TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. May

Gentlemen

When

was

26, 1776.

Annapolis a few days past, there was a memorial lodged with the Convention by Mr. Henry Ridgely, reflecting greatly on my honour. I returned home to get acquainted with the charge, that I might the have the charger summoned to support his assertion Convention rising before I could return, I apprehend the It is of such a nabusiness will lay before your Honours. ture that I hope it will not pass unnoticed by your Honours. If the charge alleged should be fixed, I shall expect to be The charge is infatreated with ignominy and dishonour. You will be pleased to let me know when it will mous. be taken under consideration, that I may prepare to defend myself. The sooner your Honours will bring it to issue, the more thankful I shall be. I shall be greatly obliged for a copy of the memorial. I am, gentlemen, your most humble servant, :

I

at

;

Thomas Dorsey.

from General Carleton to Lord

this

Lord

MAY,

Majesty's ship Lizard, arrived from Quebeck

his

Hope

On J\Iy

E^^p^p Taylor.

To the Hon. Benjamin Lincoln, or the Hon. Joseph Palmer, at Wateriown or Boston.

To

Fooks, of

&tc.,

To

the Honourable Council of Safety oi Maryland:

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

577

GEORGE BRENT TO MARYLAND COUNCIL

01"

May to the safety

their I

the Honourable Council of Safety o(

578

my company

at

once, and brine

it

I

power to save their uniform much longer. am, gentlemen, with the greatest respect, your most a u r, A. Hamilton, Luplam.

obedient servant,

To

the Honourable the Provincial Congress.

George Brent.

To

complete

1776.

should be glad to be informed if my company is to be allowed the frock, which is given to the other trooiw as a bounty. This frock will be extremely serviceable in summer, while the men are on fatigue, and would put it in Also,

I conceive it will beof tlie and welfare of the people in Skipton District, that a small quantity of ])owder and lead be lodged there, in case of an Indian war, and as it is most probable the same may hajjpen this summer from our ill success against (^ticbcck, I beg that two hundred pounds of powder, and a proportional quantity of lead, may be sent to the Committee of that District, to be in readiness for the above-mentioned contingency. I am, honourable gentlemen, youl- obedient servant,

importance

to

MAY,

the sooner into proper order and discipline.

26, 177fi.

Honoured Gentlemen: As

liighest

me

enable

SAFKTY.

&c.,

general SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON.

Maryland.

Fort George,

May

26, 1776.

Dear

Sir: Since my last of the 24th, I have received sundry letters from Canada, of which the enclosed are

FROM THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Philadelphia,

Sir

To

:

prevent any mistake

you of yesterday's date,

ter to

May

am

copies.

26, 1776.

consequence of

my

The let-

commanded by

their

own

to

am,

sir,

the Officer

commanding

President.

the Continental Troops in Phi-

New-York, May I

26, 1776.

take the liberty to request your attention

to a few particulars, which will be of considerable importance to the future progress of the company under my command ; and I shall be much obliged to you for as speedy a determination concerning them as you can conveniently

to meet with Major Hamilton, who, I find. Com an intercepted letter to one of our prisoners, was to fall on the Colony in that quarter. This has induced me to order Colonel Dayton to remain in Tryon County until further orders, although he is much wanted in Canada. Your Excellency will please to signify your pleasure on this measure. The two last corps of General Sullivan's Brigade have thrown all the communication on Hudson's River in the

Corporals,

-

3

Matrosses,

-

2 17 4

-

Drummers and

4

1

£3 14

-

Fifers, -

-

different carrying-places, ;

3

-

retarded the provisions in their

;

up.

I

am

fully deter-

to

Philip Schuyler.

To

His Excellency General Washington, &c.

commissioners in CANADA TO GENERAL SCHITLER. Montreal, May 16, 1776.

Dear stant.

;

Sir:

We

The Army

are favoured with yours of the 7th inis suffering for want of provisions,

here

None, or next to none, is to be procured For God's sake send off pork, or our troops will be greatly distressed for want of provisions, and may mutiny and desert to the enemy. The enclosed letters from General Arnold will give you the latest intelligence we have received from below. Geneparticylariy pork.

in

;

;

Canada.

Thompson and Colonel .Sr. Clair sailed from this place yesterday for the mouth of the Sorel ; which place we hope he reached last night. They intended to proceed to Deshope we shall be able to mainchambault immediately. tain that post, if Carleion has no more forces than mentioned in Arnold's letters, from the intelligence given by ilr. Bonral

incline to inlist.

We

The

next thing I should wish to know is, whether I might allowed any actual expenses that might attend the inllstment of men, should I send into the country for that purpose. The expense would not be great, and it would

be

vi.

way

suspend the next officer that shall offend, until tlie pleasure of Congress is known. 1 know this to be a stretch of power, but necessity will oblige me to it. 1 am, dear General, with the most respectful sentiments, your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,

mined

;

— Vol.

They

took the wagons stationed at the and consequently stopped the transall this directly contrary to clear and portation in batteaus and explicit orders given them before I left Albany, and in spite of the Quartermasters and Commissaries, who showed and read my orders. This infamous manoeuvre has greatly greatest confusion.

By comparing these with my pay-rolls you will discover a considerable difference and I doubt not you will be easily sensible that such a difference should not exist. I am not personally interested in having an augmentation agreeable to the above rates, because my own pay will remain the same that it now is but I make this application on behalf of the company, as I am fully convinced such a disadvantageous distinction will have a very pernicious effect on the minds and behaviour of the men. They do the same duty with the other companies, and think themselves entitled to the same pay. They have been already comparing accounts, and many marks of discontent have lately appeared on this score. As to the circumstance of our being confined to the defence of the Colony, it will have little or no weight for there are but few in the company who would not as willingly leave the Colony, on any necessary expedition, as stay in it, and they will not therefore think it reasonable to have their pay curtailed on such a consideration. Captain Beaiiman-, I understand, inlisted all his men on the above terms and this makes it very difficult for me to get a single recruit for men will naturally go to those who pay them best. On this account, I should wish to be immediately authorized to offer the same pay to all who may

Fourth Series.

;

peaceable demeanour of the others. I received the enclosed from Colonel Dayton. From the declaration of Lady Johnson, that we shall soon hear where he is. I suspect he is only gone towards Oswego,

according to the following rates -

I

Yesterday,

The most material is respecting the pay. Our company, by their articles, are to be subject to the same regulations, and to receive the same pay, as the Continental Artillery. Hitherto I have conformed to the standard laid down in the Journal of the Congress, published the 10th May, 1775 but I am well informed that, by some later regulation, the pay of the Artillery has been augmented, and now stands Bombardiers, Gunners, -

have now three hundred will go in the large boat, cannot send any in bat-

for the

give.

Captain, £10 13 4 Captain-Lieut., Lieuts., each, 6 8 Sergeants, 6 8

I

w hich

that a part of the Eighth Regiment, with about one hundred and seventy Indians, had actually arrived near the Cedars ; that the Caughnawagas are friendly, but refuse to take up arms in our favour. I wish it could be so managed that the Indians, on their visit to your Excellency, were detained as long as possible, and by some means or other induced to go to Philadelphia and other places, that they might serve as a kind of hostages

captain HAMILTON TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

:

last.

me

ladelphia.

Gentlemen

my

teaus for

your most obedient servant,

John Hancock,

To

in

momently expect but I want of men, nor can Colonel Wynkoop (to whom I sent for two companies) supply any without stopping all there. I have sent for troops to Albany, but do not expect to procure many. Mr. Deane, who left Montreal on Thursday last, informs which

will please to notice, and post your troops in the such order as not to interfere with the disposition of

the city troops. I

your Excellency

barrels of pork here, part of

officers.

This you field in

with provbions on the 14th, arI have already observed

five batteaus sent

rived at St. Johns on the 17th, as

inlbrm you that the

to

are to form distinct from your

Battalions of Associators

Corps, and to be solely

I

in

field.

37

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

579

We

have been alarmed tliis morning with the approach of some Indians and soldiers from Detroit and the upper garrisons, with a design to attack our post at the Cedars. have detached one hundred and fifty men, commanded by Major Sherbimie. to reinforce that garrison, already con-

We

sisting of three

much

hundred effective men.

We

do not believe

from that quarter. For God's sake send powder and pork. You know we over lost twenty barrels of the powder which lately came there

is

to fear

fcc,

MAY,

enemy

so near that the

1776.

will not, with

580 any considerable

force,

be able to reach this place by that time. A Quartermaster-General and Commissary are much wanted here. I have so much on hand that I can hardly You w ill be kind enough to exget one minute to write. cuse haste and incoherency, and believe me, with the great est respect and esteem, gentlemen, your obedient, humble servant,'

To

t, i>.

.

Arnold.

the Honourable the Commissioners.

the Lakes.

We are, with great esteem and sincere regard, dear sir, your most humble servants, Charles Carroli. of CarroIIton. Samuel Chase.

To

Sorel,

GENERAL ARNOLD TO THE COMMISSIONERS. Sorel,

May

15, 1776.

wrote you the 12th instant by express since which I have purchased twenty-seven hundred bushels of wheat of Captain Cuthbert, at four shillings and six pence, lawful money, payable in our paper bills, bills of exchange, or an order on Congress, whichever shall be the most agreeI

;

able to you. It is now sending to the mills. I have also received two hundred bags of flour from below, and expect also, three tons of flour, a quantity more every moment I

come over

the Lakes.

gentleman of character, arrived here yeslast, and Deschambault on Saturday morning, where General Thomas was with only Colonel Maxwell was at Jacques Carnine hundred men. tier ; but the number of men with him, Mr. Bonjield could Mr. Bonjield saw a number of the Regular offinot tell. cers and inhabitants of Qvebeck before he left Sidly, who acquainted him that on Monday, the 6th instant, arrived at Quebeck one sloop-of-war of fourteen guns, one twenty and one fifty-gun ship, from England, with two companies of the Twenty-Seventh Regiment, and one company of Marines, which were immediately landed, who, with the

Mr. Bonfield,

terday.

He

left

a

Sully on Thiirsday

came out the same afternoon, made a body of one thousand men, commanded by General Carleton, from whom our people made a most precipitate retreat, without garrison that

ever

firing

a gun.

On the 8th, arrived a frigate of thirty guns, and a large Indiaman, with five hundred men from Halifax, part of General Hoive's Army, the whole of which were on their passage for Quebeck; and six thousand Hessians, it is said, are on their way from England. If the latter is true, we shall doubtless have ©ur hands full. Colonel Allen is come out in the ship fvom England, in irons, it is given out, to receive his trial for rebellion, and to be executed here. I am sorry to inform you that all the carriages, except five, which came with the heavy cannon, were sent down as they came over the Lakes, and fell into the enemv's hands. 1 have written Colonel Hazcn to put others in hand immediately, to replace them. are making every possible disposition of defence in our power, and I make no doubt of securing this post in a few days. None of the enemy's ships have been able to ascend the Richelieu as yet. 1 make no doubt Mr. Price will take effectual measures to supply with provisions the garrisons of Montrco/, Chambly, St. Johns, and the Cedars. Enclosed you have a letter to Mr. Evans, which fell into my hands, which contains a piece of intelligence worth noticing. 1 should be glad to know your sentiments in regard to inoculation as early as possible. Will it not be best, con-

We

sidering the impossibility of preventing the spreading of the

small-pox, to inoculate five hundred or a thousand men immediately, and send them to Montreal, and as many more

cveiy five days, until the whole receive it, which will prevent our Army being distressed hereafter; and I make no doubt we shall have more effective men in four weeks than by endeavouring to prevent the disorder spreading a period



15, 1776.

:

Chambly. I am, respectfully, gentlemen, your humble servant,

B. Arnold.

;

I make no had engaged before I left Montreal. doubt, in a few days, of collecting a magazine of flour sufmen for three months. ficient for ten thousand A Commissary that I sent out to purchase provisions, returned yesterday with twenty oxen. I have put the people I to half an allowance of meat, and added to their bread. make no doubt of supporting the Army until provisions can

which

May

Mr. Bonfield further acquaints me that General Carleton was to set out on Friday, fiom Qiwbeck, to attack General Thomas; of which he acquainted the latter, who was determined to make a stand, and was preparing to receive him. I have sent down from this ten batteaus. I expect to hear from him every minute, and shall give you the earliest intelligence. When 1 arrived here, found Major Nicholson gone past to St. Johns, with intention of going home. 1 immediately wrote the commanding officer there to confine him until your pleasure was known. General JVooster left this place yesterday for

Gentlemen

the Honourable Philij) Schuyler, Esq.

Gentlemen:

general ARNOLD TO THE COMMISSIONERS.

To

the Honourable the Commissioners.

GENERAL ARNOLD TO SAMUEL CHASE. Sorel,

May

15, 1776.

Dear

Sir: I wrote you the 1.3th, by Captain Stoddard, and this morning by Corporal Eustis ; since which I have received your agreeable favour of yesterday, for which I am much obliged to you, as well as for your kind offer of a mutual and unreserved communication of sentiments which confidence I shall esteem an honour done me, and make no doubt it will be conducive of the publick sei-vice to keep up a friendly correspondence among the officere. I am glad you have discovered the sentiments of the inhabitants of Montreal, which will furnish an opportunity I wish they may be of taking proper measures with them. coerced, as I am convinced they are in general our bitter eneYour appointment of Captain fVool is very pleasing mies. he is a spirited good officer. I yesterday repeated to me the order you gave Colonel Hazen, in respect of carriages. As Colonel Clinton goes home, I am glad Patterson is sent I had ordered six for I believe he will give satisfaction. I fancy batteaus to Montreal, and will send four more. General TJiompson is with you by this time. I hope you will not detain him, as he is much wanted here. By a letter I enclosed you yesterday, you will find, if the intelligence can be depended on, that Colonel Bedel is in I am sorry to say one great very little danger at his post. object of your commission in Canada seems at a distance. Your presence, however, is absolutely necessary, and I am I think it rejoiced to hear your determination of staying. is of the last importance to complete our gondolas as soon as possible, and to erect some batteries here, and make not the least doubt of Mr. Chase's utmost exertion in the publick cause, in which we are all embarked. The information you have received, in respect to Captain Cuthbert, is, I believe, in part true, but has originated from You will observe a private pique, and much exaggerated. I have bought his wheat from him, which he readily sold me, at the same time complained most bitteriy of being threatened with the loss of his life by the same Don you mention, who, I believe, is a very bad man. Many persons in the country are seeking for private revenge under pretence of concern for the publick safety. Mr. Conrad Grcgy has voluntarily furnished us with a considerable quantity of flour. Boats are now gone for it. He appears friendly, though I believe him and Cuthbert are both Prerogative-men. I shall keep a good look-out upon them. I received a letter from Colonel JVilliams, acquainting me that some soldiers, returning from camp, had plundered Mr. Gregy^s house, and with difficulty even prevented from burning it. They are suicides, and will be made an ;

;

;

example I

of.

believe

I

know your

sentiments in respect to provisions,

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

581

Army

the

am

and with you in regard to persons holding criminal correspondence with our enemies, and shall treat tliem accordingly. The proclamation you hint I think is hoth just and reasonable, and the only resource we have left to maintain an Army in this country. I think the places you mention for magazines proper, and in addition beg leave to mention St. Johns as the principal. I have had in contemplation the collecting all the wheat on the Sorcl; but my attention has been and is still taken I have sent Lieutenant-Colonel Shrcve and fifty off here. men to Beriier, and proposed to send two hundred men before I received your favour. I hope General Sullivan will Mr. Rotriuns^s conduct, by all accounts, has arrive soon. been very extraordinary. Blankets and coarse linens are exceedingly wanted. Most Will it not of our men, returned from below, are naked. be advisable and justifiable to seize on all such goods in Montreal as we are in absolute necessity for, and pay them Government has set us many precedents, and the value? necessity will doubtless justify retaliation. This I submit to your better judgment and am, with my hearty respects to the ladies and Mr. Carroll, (when he arrives,) and with great respect, esteem, and good wishes, dear sir, your obedient shall

not

let

suffer.

I

of opinion

fully

;

humble

To

servant,

the Honourable

B. Arnold.

Samuel Chase, Esq.

P. S. Colonel Campbell is much wanted here. I have been obliged to appoint a Deputy Quartermaster-General in his room, jjro tern. E. A.

kc, MAY,

Sir

In

:

my letter

sent yesterday,

1776.

582

have only ninety-one rank and file fit for duty Iwenfy-oight of these are constantly employed in the batteaus that brine ;

the timber for building others; eight in the large boat, and ten in various other services; so that I have only forty-



and all raw and undisciplined a force so leaves us exposed to the insults of any very inconsiderable party, who may destroy our boats and build-

five left for duty,

that

trifling

it

and thereby greatly distress, if not totally render useArmy in Canada. Permit me, therefore, to bee your Excellency to order mo a reinforcement the soonest possible and should I find myself hereafter in a situation to dispense with them, Colonel Van Schaick will then be immediately sent into Canada. I forgot to mention to your Excellency that the small note I enclosed you this morning I received with the other papers, but do not know whether intended for the Commissioners or for me if for me, I am not in a condition to comply with it, as I have not a person here who understands ings, less,

our

;

;

the construction of gondolas.

the Congress

in

wrote

I

the course of last winter

informed you of my intentions of possessing JohnsonHall. guard and sentries are so placed as to intercept effectually any communication with any part of the country. Previous to this, I sent an officer with a letter to Lady Johnson, informing her of my design, and requesting all the keys, in order to examine Sir John's papers. Colonel MTiite, Major Barber, and myself, waited upon her shortly after. She

but

batteaumen at Albany and its vicithey are cheaper at eleven dollars and a quarter per month, than soldiers with the additional pay of one shilling per day, because they are more to be depended on. Please to order up some flints, with directions to have I

nity

shall try to procure ;

them forwarded to this place without delay. I am so weakened by the ague, which still continues

to

cannot bear the fatigue of visiting the communication to Albany, where I am much wanted. I am, dear sir, most sincerely, your Excellency's obedient and hu.nble servant, I

p^^^^^ Schuyler.

by the Rev. Mr. Cald-

tcell, I

such persons to if I had proper build them, as the for

;

persons here, it would be needless to waters in a few days, if not already, are too low to get vessels of that construction down the falls of Chambly.

torment me, that

COLONEL DAYTON TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Johnstown, May 24,

1770.

To

His Excellency General Washington.

A

immediately produced all the keys, with a considerable number of papers. The letters were carefully perused in presence of herself, and a few selected, copies of which I transmit you by this express, retaining the originals in my own hands until I shall have the pleasure of seeing or conveying them more safely to you. The house, also, was examined in every part. Since Mr. Caldwell left this place, I am more assured that Sir Johi, with his party, marched from these settlements on Monday last, for Niagara or Canada. Lady Johnson assures me he is on his road to Niagara, and that we soon shall hear where he is. As the guards and sentries around the Hall must increase the pain of her situation, I have requested her to remove to Albany, where, as I understand, she has several friends. To this she seems averse, but for what reasons I know not and I would therefore be glad to receive your directions on this head also. In consequence of an express despatched to Colonel Harkaman, I understand he has collected his Militia, in order to prevent Sir John's escaping through that part of

Return of

the Garrison at

Fort George, May

26, 1776.

companies.

Capl. Finck's, Van Schaick's Regiment Capt. Wendell's, Wynkoop's Resimeni Capl. Van Vechten'-, Wynkojp's Regiment. Lieulenanl Cook's Recruits 3

i

1

8

1(1

3 91 118

The above is extracted from the returns Commanding Officers of the Companies now

All effectives.

of the several

stationed at Fort George,

by

John Lansing, Jun. MARK HOPKINS TO GENERjlL WASHINGTON.

;

the country. I

To

am,

your most obedient and very humble servant, Elias Dayton.

sir,

General Schuyler.

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Fort George,

May

26, 1776.

Dear Sir: Since my letter of this morning, Mr. Livingston, my Aid-de-Camp, whom I sent to Albany to hasten up whatever of Van Schaick's and Wynkoop's Regiments might be there more than were wanted to man the

to this place

batteaus employed here,

in

and informs me

at that place are not

information

and gives

is

me

transporting provisions,

is

returned

men of both those regiments sufficient to man the batteaus. This

that the

corroborated by a letter from my Secretary, great uneasiness, lest our Army In Canada

should again be under

difficulties for

want of the necessary

supplies.

By

the enclosed return your Excellency will see that I

Great Barrington,

Sir

May

26, 1776.

A

Convention of the Committees of Berkshire and the parts adjacent, have lately, by two expresses, communicated to your Excellency their suspicion of a plot being formed for the destruction of these United Colonies, by a :

combination of a number of pereons among ourselves for that purpose, with the evidence upon which that suspicion was principally grounded. Amongst other persons accused. General Schtyler was one, whose important station would give hiiD peculiar advantages to distress us, by withholding support from the Army in Canada, if he were inimically The said Convention, therefore, took all those disposed. methods they could devise to find out the sentiments of the General and it is with the greatest pleasure we are now able to acquaint your Excellency that said Convention are satisfied that their suspicions respecting him were wholly That there has been a plan forming among our groundless. ;

enemies in the Colonies, is beyond doubt, and we hope the whole will soon be brought to light but that some wicked and designing men have greatly magnified it, and falsely asserted divei-s persons of distinction and merit to be concerned in it, in order to influence the timid and ignorant and promote jealousies amongst us, is indisputable. The Committees of this town, Shefield and Canaan, tliought it their duty to acquaint :

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

583

your Excellency with the above, as perhaps it migtit have some influence upon your orders or conduct relating to those matters, and they have ordered me to inform you accordThis goes by express. ingly. By order of said Committees, I am your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,

To

M\rk

Hopkins.

&c.,

MAY,

1776.

584

General, who should examine the accounts, compare the vouchers, count the remaining cash, and certify the same on the back of the warrants. I have the honour to be, with the utmost respect, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, ^VILLIAM Palfrey, Paymaster-General.

To

John Hancock, Esq., President of Congress.

General Washington.

BALTIMORE COMMITTEE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. In Commitlee, Baltimore, May 27, 1776.

Gentlemen Captain John StcrrcWs Company of Militia being appointed an Independent Company, and Captain :

general PUTNAM TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Head-Quarters,

Dear General

New- York, May

27, 1776.

Nothing material has happened since The articles General Schuyler wrote for I last wrote you. they went from this last Saturday in a are all forwarded vessel bound to Albany. Lord Stirling, Colonel Putnam, and one officer from the train, went from this up the North River yesterday. I could not think it prudent to send Colonel Knox, as he was much wanted here. The lead General Schuyler wrote for was not to be had. I have written General Ward for the following articles which were taken in the last prize, viz Sand-bags, 10,000 mantelets of cured hides, 100; broad-axes, 100; handhammers, 50 hand-hatchets, 500 felling-axes, 300 handbills, 500; spades, 1,000; shovels, 500; powder, 25 tons one half of the spikes and nails the whole of the carpenters' all the carbines, complete and two tons of lead out tools :

;

consisting chiefly of ship carpenworking on the Continental frigate, having ters petitioned to be formed into an Artillery Company, which we presume will be granted, we think proper to add to the Baltimorc-Tou-n Battalion, Captain Thomas Butter's and Captain Frederick Beams s Companies of Militia, as the most convenient to join the same and their situation is such that they cannot with propriety join any other Battalion.

Gco'rgc

ff'cils's

employed

Company,

in

;

By

order of the Committee

Sajiuel Purviance, Jun., Chairman.

:

;

Frederick Beams, Captain Absalom Price, First LieuGeorge Campbell, Second Lieutenant John Bern;

tenant

;

;

mit. Ensign,

and 79 Privates.

N. B. Captain Butter has already received commissions and his officers.

These

are to certify to the honourable Council of Safety,

that the following Returns

have been made

to this

Committee

of Companies of Militia in Baltimore County, viz One Company in Baltimore-Toivn, containing 76, who have elected JVilliam Buchanan, Captain John Smith, ;

Bobert Alexander, Second Lieutenant George Woolsey, Ensign. One Company in Baltimore-Town, containing 82, who have elected John Sterrett, Captain Bennet Eichelberger, First Lieutenant Hugh Young, Second Lieutenant BanFirst Lieutenant

;

;

;

for liimself

;

;

;

;

ielBowly, Ensign.

One Company in Baltimore-Tovm, conXdxmg 65, who have elected Henry Sheap, Captain Brittingham Bickenson. First Lieutenant Bobert Moore, Second Lieutenant ;

;

Caleb Shields, Ensign.

One Company in Baltimore-Town, conXa.\n'mg 58, who have elected William Galbraith, Captain James Toole, First Lieutenant John Beaver, Second Lieutenant ; Joseph Gehe, Ensign. One Company in Baltimore-Town, containing 71, who have elected M'illiam Richardson, Captain John McCabe, First Lieutenant George Sewell Bouglass, Second Lieutenant Fergus Mclhoy, Ensign. One Company of Artillery, in Baltimore-Town, containing 66, who have elected George Wells, Captain James

of the old stock.

Captain Putnam I have sent on express to forwai'd the My proceedings above articles with all possible despatch. in this matter I hope may be approved of by yoyr Excellency, as I thought it absolutely necessary for the good of the service.

Last night an express arrived from Canada, with a letter from General Schuyler, dated Fort George, May 2lst, which mentions he had forwarded on all the provisions then on hand and a letter from General Thompson, dated Chambly, May 14th, which says matters are in a very confused state. He mentions Colonel Greaton's and part of Colonel Bond's Regiments had gone forward Colonel Patterson's at Montreal ; Colonel Poor's at Ticonderoga, waiting for proviHe expected to go down the Sorel and join General sions. Thomas that evening. These letters I should forward you, but expect your Excellency in town this day or to-riiorrow. Have detained the express till your arrival. I am, with esteem and respect, your Excellency's most ;

;

obedient and very humble servant,

;

;

To

;

nant

;

First Lieutenant

;

John Hayman, Second Lieute-

James Foster, Third Lieutenant.

The above Companies,

together with Captain Zachariah McCubbin's and Captain James Cox's, who have received commissions, we recommend to be formed into a Battalion. We are, gentlemen, your most humble servants, Wm. Lux, Beputy Chair. William Buchanan, Thomas Harrison, Thomas Sollers, William Ais^uith, John Boyd, John E. Howard, John Sterrett, John Smith. James Calhoun,

To

the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland.

p^^,^^^^^

JONATHAN LAWRENCE TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

;

Morgan,

j^^^^

His Excellency General Washington.

Newtown, May

;

;

;

;

;

Gentlemen

27, 1776.

On

complaint of Waters Smith, Esquire, Captain Nathaniel Woodard,a.i)d several others of the inhabitants of this town, against John Moore, Jan., of a fresh insult offered to the United Colonies, by hoisting a large flag, or suffering the same to be hoisted, on his grounds in imitation of a King's standard, the Commitlee ordered him to be taken into custody, and brought before them and as he has not given sufficient satisfaction, the Committee thought proper to order him safely conducted to your honoiu'able Board, :

;

and

in

the care of Captain

Abraham Remsen,

for further

ex-

amination.

By

order of the

Committee

Jonathan Lawrence, Chairman, N. B. The tain Remsen.

flag

which was taken we have sent by Cap-

AARON STOCKHOLM TO NEW-YORK COMMITTEE. WILLIAM palfrey TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read May 29, 1776.] New-York, May 27, 1776. Enclosed I send you a weekly return of the state of my office, from the 19th to the 25th of May, inclusive. As I wish to have my accounts examined and audited once a month, I should esteem it as a particular favour if the honourable Congress would either appoint proper persons here for the purpose, or direct General Washington to do it. In my humble opinion, the best mode would be for three or more persons to be appointed by warrant from the

Sir

:

New- York, May Sir:

Be

it

known,

27, 1776.

that we, the subscribers, being present

at a funeral yesterday, did hear the following persons, viz:

Peter McLean, Samuel Galsivorthy, Francis Be La Roche, and a young man in military clothing, who appeared to be an acquaintance of said Galsivorthy, make expressions which we thought highly dangerous to the cause of liberty. Mcpersons who did not at present the cause of the country were used worse than any persons had ever been used in Rome, or any other

Lean

in particular said that

take up arms

in

Romish dominions.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

585

Francis Dc La Roche said that he wislied King George might rule glorious and victorious over us. We made menlion that persons

who were

inimical to the cause o( America

McLean made an answer that we off. must be very nimble about it, for very soon we would not have power to do it. The others made expressions equally dangerous, the particulars of which we will be able to tell if should be shipped

selves into a

mendation

to

kc, MAY,

1776.

586

company of Light-Horse, and Congress

in that

also for a

recom-

behalf:

Resolved, therefore, That this Committee approve of the same, and request that commissions may be granted accordingly, if consistent with the rules of Congress. By order of the Committee,

called upon.

Elihu Marvin, Chairman. Thomas Maffat, Clerk.

Attest

Aaron Stockholm, Samuel Prince, John Bogart, Thomas Gardner.

To the Chairman,

or

Deputy Chairman of the General Com-

mittee o( Netv-York.

Referred to the honourable Congress of this Colony by Committee of this city, who conceive they have not power suiRcient to proceed against the aforesaid offenthe General ders.

By

order of the Committee

:

Josh. Winter, Secretary.

WILLIAM ALLISON TO JOHN HARING. Goshen, May

27, 1776.

Sir After my respects, must inform you that I was somewhat nonplused on my return home, to find I was appointed with yourself a Committee forsuperintending saltpetre works, and purchasing any saltpetre manufactured within this Colony. How it happened that I never heard a word said about it while in town I can hardly conceive, and am ready to conclude you must have been in the same predicament, as you never mentioned it to me. If it is a duty actually incumbent on us to erect or set on foot any works, I think no time ought to be lost besides, people are bringing in saltpetre to me and expect their cash. I am not prepared for purchasing much. I have reason to think there will be a considerable quantity made in this end of the County by private families. Have bought fifty weight of one man, who has made seventy weight in the whole, and who made fourteen pounds out of three bushels of earth. I have heard of several considerable quantities, and expect them in every day. I wish, if it could be so ordered, you would send me some cash without my coming down, as I would not choose one person should go away without his money; for without the experience, you can hardly conceive the injury it will do :

;

COLONEL THOMAS TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS. White-Plains,

May

27, 1776.

Sir Mr. Elijah Hunter informs me that he had encouragement from the Committee of Safety for a Captaincy of a Grenadier Company in my Regiment, provided he could inlist a sufficient number, and had my approbation. Mr. Hunter has shown me a roll of fifty non-commissioned officers and privates, who have entered themselves as Grenadiers and it is with pleasure I can recommend him as a proper person for Captain, and Richard Sackeit for First Lieutenant, Silas Miles for Second Lieutenant, and Jeremiah Lounsherry for Ensign. Would therefore be much obliged to the honourable Congress (if they approve of the officers and of having a Grenadier Company in my Regiment) to give orders for their commissions being speedily :

;

made

Some

among some

people.

expediency of estabhshing pubworks, and the measures pursuing by the other Committees, would be very acceptable by this post and cash I hints respecting the

lick

;

think might

out.

am

I

the cause

your very humble servant,

I

am,

come

in haste,

by the same hand. your friend and veiy humble safe

To

the President of the Provincial Congress of the

Colony

servant,

William Allison.

Thomas Thomas.

To John

Haring, Esq.

of New- York.

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Fort George,

TO THE HONOURABLE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF THE COLONY OF NEW-YORK.

Gentlemen as in

them

The

:

lies) to

subscribers being desirous (as

promote the military

so very necessary at this alarming tire

spirit in this

crisis,

much

Colony

have, with the en-

approbation of Colonel Jesse WoodhuU, (the

command-

ing officer of the regiment to which they belong,) formed themselves into a body for a company of Light-Horse, sub-

and regulations as now are or may herebe made by the honourable Continental Congress, or this or any future Congress of this Province, for regulating the Militia within this Colony; and have also, under the inspection of two members of the Committee, elected a set of officers to command them. They therefore humbly request that commissions may be made out for their officers as soon as possible, in order that they may know what to depend on

ject to such rules after

with regard to furnishing themselves with the necessary apparatus for a complete company of Light-Horse and as in duty bound they will ever pray. ;

James Seely,

Thaddeus Seely, Timothy Little,

Philip Miller,

Samuel

James Sayres, William Heard,

Jonathan Brooks, Jun., Azariah Martin,

Bartlet,

Stephen Gilbert, Joshua Hulse, Phineas Heard, Luther Conkling,

John Brooks,

Samuel Seely, Gideon Salmon,

Jonathan Sayre, Benjamin Hulse, Daniel Reve,

Samuel Tuthill, William Beardley,

Nehemiah

Benjamin Harlaw, Matthew Wickham, Ebenezer WoodhuU. William Seely,

Blooming-Grove,

May

Charles Howell, Jonathan Dubois, Stephen Howell,

John Seely, Moses Carpenter, Nathaniel Woodhull,

Andrew Lightbody.

27, 1776.

In Committee for Cornwall Precinct, at Blooming-Grove, ? May 31, 1776. 5

Application being for the

made by

approbation of

this

the subscribers within

Committee

May

27, 1776.

Last night Colonel Clinton arrived and brought

:

the enclosed, by which

yesterday was intended

I

find the note alluded to in

me

mine of

answer the gentleIf the account given by McChord be true, it is much to be lamented that the siege of Q^uebeck could not have been immediately resumed. The honourable Commissioners, I suppose, had not yet received the account that one hundred and fifty thousand dollars were on the way to Canada when they wrote, nor of the one thousand seven hundred and thirteen transmitted me by Governour Cooke. It will, however, be necessary to send more, both to Canada and to Mr. Trumbull at Albany, for reasons I have given in a fonner letter. I am, most sincerely, your Excellency's most obedient,

men on

humble

To

for

me.

I shall

the subject of the gondola to-day.

„ o Philip schuyler.

servant,

His Excellency General Washington.

P. S. Medicines are much wanted at this post and Ticonderoga. I have ordered a row-galley to be sent from Ticonderoga, to be converted into a gondola she served as such last year when in possession of the enemy. ;

Israel Seely,

Clark,

Daniel Harrison, Silas Pearson, Jun., Isaac Van Duzer,

Peter Hubert, Hezekiah Walkins, Joseph Conkling,

Sir

to their

named

forming them-

COMMISSIONERS IN CANADA TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Montreal, May 17, 1776.

Dear

Sir:

The

following intelligence

ted to us about an hour ago, and

we

think

was communicamay be depend-

ed on:

John Mc Chord left Loretto, in sight of Quebe >V

ARE.

the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland.

hall and others to MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Anne Arundel County, May

31, 1776.

We

take the liberty of informing you tliat the Severn Battalion is, from the local situation of the country, gready exposed to the depredations and attacks of our

Gentlemen:

cruel and inveterate enemies

them,

we

;

and as we

may

daily expect

request that you will be pleased to furnish

the

two hundred cartouch-boxes, with twenty-three rounds of powder and ball to each, and also two hundred gun-flints. We also inform your Honours, that we will be responsible for the above, unless lost by unavoidable accident, and will return the same to the next Convention, if they will not pay for the same. We are, gentlemen, in expectation of the above reasonsaid battalion with

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

631

able request being complied with, your most humble servants,

To

Hall, Rezin Hammond, Nicholas Worthington.

J

Honourable the Council of Safety.

tlie

;

in

J.

case of an alarm.

Hall.

sNow-iiiLL (Maryland) committee. In Committee, Snow-Hill,

May

31, 1776.

Benton Harris, Esq., Chairman Messrs. Peter Chaille, John rurncll, James Martin, Outten SturSelOy. o-is, Henry Johnson, John Done, and John Whereas special peiniission was heretofore granted to Mr. Benjamin Dennis to raise a Company of Militia in Worcester County; and, in pursuance of the resolves of the Convention of Maryland, it appears that he hath enrolled a Company, consisting of eight non-commissioned oflicers and likewise, that he was duly elected as Cap(ifty-six privates tain, John Townsend as First Lieutenant, Thomas Outten as Second Lieutenant, and Angela Atkinson as Ensign, for

Were

present

;

:

MAY,

1776.

632

thousand men for the Southern District, otherwise they must have a very contemptible opinion of those Colonies, or have great expectations from the Indians, slaves, and We expect a very bloody summer at Neiv- York Tories. and Canada, as it is there, I presume, the grand efforts of and 1 am sorry to say that we the enemy will be aimed However, are not, eidier in men or arms, prepared for it. it is to be hoped that, if our cause is just, as I do most religiously believe it to be, the same Providence which has in many instances appeared for us, will still go on to afford Your Convention are acting very wisely in removits aid. ing the disaffected, and stores, from the Counties of Princess Anne and Norfolk; and are much to be commended for their attention to the manufacture of salt, saltpt^tre, and No time nor expense should be spared to accompowder. ;

P. S. As an additional reason for the above application, in the very heart it is to be considered that the magazine is and the cartouch-boxes may be lodged in of the battalion Lieuthe magazine, subject to the order of the Colonel or tenant-Colonel

fee,

plish these things.

Mrs. Washington is now under inoculation in this city, and will, I expect, have the small-pox favourably. This She is the thirteenth day, and she has very few pustules. would have written to my sister, but thought it prudent not there could but little be danger of to do so, notwithstanding conveying the infection in this manner. She joins me in all little ones. the you and love to I am, with every sentiment of regard, dear sir, your most

;

said

Company.

Per order of the Committee

To

j^_

affectionate brother.

To

^^^^^^ ^j^^^^

George Washington.

John Augustine Washington.

JOHN MACPHERSON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

the Honourable the Council of Safety oi Maryland.

[Read June

4,

Referred to Mr. Read and Mr. McKean.]

1776.

Pliiladelphia,

Honourable Gentlemen

WASHINGTON. Philadelpliia, May 31, 1776.

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO JOHN

Dear Brother: I

came,

Since

my

A.

where some matters

campaign, I have received your letfrom Williamsburgh, and I think I stand indebted to you for another, which came to hand some time I am very glad to find that the Virago, in Neiv-York. ginia Convention have passed so noble a vote, and with so relative to the ensuing ter of the 18th,

Things have come to such a pass now as we have nothing more to expect from the justice of Great Britain ; also, that she is capable of the most delusive arts for I am satisfied that no Commissioners ever were designed, except Hessians and other foreigners and that the idea was only to deceive and throw us off our The first has been too effectually accomplished, as guard.

much

unanimity.

to convince us that

;

Naval Commander in the American service, which by the consent and agreement of the I obtained honourable gentlemen who were appointed to treat with me. I have received since in the service only four hundred and twenty dollars. The great expense I am now running to for the benefit

my

of

country

It is

;

not in the nature of things to be otherwise

;

for

the reason of

my

appli-

I

am, honourable gentlemen, your most obedient, most

humble

To

servant,

j^^^ Macpherson.

the Honourable Continental Congress.

The Committee

feeding

is

cation at present.

beg leave to report

ings.

me one

First

themselves upon the and though they will not allow that the expectation of it has any influence upon their judgments with respect to their preparations for defence, it is but too obvious that it has an operation upon every part of their conduct, and is a clog to their proceedstill

dainty food of reconciliation

31, 1776.

station

of Congress, in short, the representation of

whole Provinces, are

May

pleased to spare

of organs, which I have prepared for a vessel that I do not Be pleased, also, doubt will be of service to this country. to order my salary paid from the 17th of October last, as

;

many members

Be

quarter-cask of powder, to prove four howitzers and four sets

arrival at this place,

at the request of Congress, to settle

:

to :

whom the within Letter was referred, That they have examined the subscri-

ber thereof respecting the contents, who alleged that he had a promise of being appointed Commander-in-Chief of the American Navy by Messrs. Randolph, Hopkins, and

Rutledge, (a Committee of Congress,) to

whom

he

commu-

nicated an important secret, but he produced no evidence

and your Committee having in support of such allegation inquired of Governour Hopkins about this promise, in the presence of Mr. Macpherson, he declared he recollected ;

.

no man that entertains a hope of seeing this dispute speedily and equitably adjusted by Commissioners, will go to the same expense, and run the same hazards, to prepare for the worst event as he who believes that he must conquer or submit to unconditional terms, and the concomitants, such as confiscation, hanging, and the like. To form a new Government requires infinite care and unbounded attention for if the foundation is badly laid, the superstructure must be bad. Too much time, therefore, cannot be bestowed in weigiiing and digesting matters well. We have, no doubt, some good parts in our present Constitution many bad ones we know we have. Wherefore, no time can be misspent in separating the wheat from the tares. My fear is, that you will all get tired and homesick the consequence of which will be, that you will patch up some kind of a Constitution as defective as the present. This should be avoided. Every man should consider that he is lending his aid to frame a Constitution which is to render millions happy or miserable, and that a matter of such moment cannot be the work of a day. I am in hopes to hear some good accounts from NorthCarolina, if Clinton has only part of his force there, and not strongly intrenched, I should think that General Lee will he able to give a very good account of those at CapeFear. Surely Administration must intend more than five ;

;

nothing of the kind Therefore, Resolved, That the application :

is

unreasonable.

extract of a letter dated new-york, may 31, 1776. General Putnam has just shown me a letter from a gentleman in Salem, which very much concerns your place. The writer informs the General that Captain Chapman is arrived there (Salem) from St. Croix,

who

says that on the

10th instant, in latitude fifty-four degrees, longitude sixtyseven degrees twenty-four minutes, he fell in with a brig, the Captain of which told him that he sailed in company with a fleet of seventy transports, under convoy of two fifty-four and four forty-gun ships and two bomb-ketches, from which he parted the 5th in a hard gale of wind. The fleet had on board a large number of Hessians, Brunswickers, and English troops, all bound to Philadelphia, in order to disperse (as the Captain expresses himself) that hornets' after which they were certain the connest, the Congress ;

would become a very easy prey. God grant that you may be prepared to receive this armament! General Putnam thinks that some troops will immediately march from hence to your assistance. tinent

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

633

he, MAY,

1776.

634

EXTRACT OF A LETTER DATED NEW-YORK, MAY 31, 1776. I do not learn that a word lias been said in our Con-

whereof Colonel Ritzema was President, for "assaulting, beating, and dang(-roiisly wounding, one William Irvine^,"

vention upon the subject of a Declaration of Independence

are both acquitted by the Court. ;

new mode of Government has been talked of, and you may expect to see in next Monday's paper a call from but a

the Convention to the people, either to give them

powers

for the

The General approves the sentence, and orders the prisoners to be released immediately.

projjer Head-Quarters, New-York,

purpose, or to add to their number, and give

the increased body powers, or to choose a

(Parole, Jlinlmij)

new Convention,

The

and give the powers to them.

parade

in

May

2.3,

1776.

(Couiiteniign, ¥-rrk.)

Sailmakers

the different Regiments are all to front of the General's Quarters to-morrow mornin

ing, at six o'clock.

COLONEL RITZEMA TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS. New-York, May

31, 1776.

Sir Yesterday it was given out, in general orders, that General Putnam had received a letter from General (Vashington, requesting the Colonels in the Army here imme:

diately to provide colours for their several

regiments.

I

you would be pleased

to mention it to be given to Mr. Curtenius to provide a pair for my regiment of such a colour and with such devices as shall bo deemed proper by the Congress. I am, sir, your very humble servant, shall

be glad,

sir,

the Congress, and that direction

may

A reinforcement to be immediately made to the main guard at the lower barracks of one Subaltern, two Sergeants, two Corporals, one Drummer, and thirty Privates. The order for doubling the sentries at night to be strictly attended to. All those men of the following Regiments, viz: Colonel Parsons' s, Webb's, Baldwin's, Nixon's, Willy's, and Read's, who have agreed to serve in the whaling-boats with Lieutenant-Colonel Tapper, are to repair immediately to him, and take their orders from him.

Head-Quarters, New-York,

RuD. RiTZEMA.

(Parole, Mifflin.)

May

24, 1776.

(Countersign, Lynch.)

The GENERAL PUTNAM TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Head-Quarters, New-York,

May

31, 1776.

had the pleasure of receiving your Excellency's let28th instant, per post, and shall forward on the enclosed to General Ward, by the first safe conveyance. Soon after our troops left the Plains of Abraham, Sir John Johnson pushed off at the head of his Scotch gang. General Schuyler immediately ordered the officers that were at Albany on their parole, to be sent to this place. I have sent them on this morning for Philadelphia, Lieutenant McLean behaved so ill General Wooster sent him to Albany for particulars, I must refer your Excellency to in irons Lieutenant Vanwaggenen, who has the care of them. In my last I mentioned Captain McKay's desertion from Hartford; he was taken last week in the habit of a clergyman, on his way for Canada. He, with Governour Skene, are both committed to Hartford ja.\l, the latter for refusing I

ter of the

;

The following Sailmakers are to embark this day on board a vessel, in order to proceed to Albany, and from thence to General Schuyler, and receive his further orders, viz: Francis Howard, Samuel Holmes, Ebenezer Durkee, Daniel Vanderpool, of Colonel Ward's Regiment Lewis Lamb, of Colonel Little's Regiment George Lemot, of Colonel Bailey's Regiment. They are to be furnished with ten days' provision a man. Captain Harwood's Company is to join Lieutenant-Colonel Tapper, and do duty on board ;

;

the whaling-boats, &tc., Sic.

Mr. Livingston, who has hitherto supplied Colonel McDougalFs Regiment with provisions, having declined doing it

any longer, he

on Statcn-Island, Green Bluff, and Governour's Island, are complete. Our troops have taken a small sloop for going on board the Asia. There were ten men on board, seven of whom have escaped, the others are under examination. The vessels I mentioned are out cruising on the back of the Island. I think they will be of great use to us. I am driving on the works with all possible despatch, and shall pay particular attention to your Exsignals

is

to order his

Quartermaster

to

apply to

the Commissary-General for provision for the future, is

desired to supply

supplied by Mr.

to sign his parole.

The

Brigadier-Generals will settle the mode and hours going the rounds at night, every morning on the geneparade, at guard mounting.

for ral

all

who

those Corps, which were hitherto

Abraham

Livingston.

The

removal of General Washington's guard from his Head-Quarters in town, occasions the following alterations in the detail of guards, viz the seven men lately added to the Provost, to be taken from it, and a guaid of one Sergeant, one Corporal, and fifteen men, to mount at the place where General Washington's guard was kept who are to relieve the sentries at his door. General Gates's, Paymaster:

;

General's, )kc.

cellency's directions in regard to sending an express in case

appearing on the coast. I shall write Captafn forwarded from Boston to NeivLondon as soon as possible. I have the honour to be your Excellency's most obedi-

of a

ent,'

To

Head-Quarters,

fleet

Putnam,

to see the things

humble

Israel „ ruTNAM.

servant,

,

His Excellency General Washington.

GENERAL ORDERS. Head-Quarters, New-York, (Parole, Washington.)

The

May

22, 1776.

(Countersign, Gales)

following are the

names of the

different Batteries in

City The Battery at the south part of the town, the Grand Battery ; the one immediately above it.

and about

this

:

Fort George

; the one on the left of the Grand Battery, Whitehall Battery; that behind his Excellency General Washington's Head-Quarters, the Oyster Battery ; the

Circular Battery, near the Brew-house, on the North-River, the Grenadier Battery ; that on the left of the Grenadier Battery, the Jersey Battery; the one on Bayard's Hill,

Bayard's Hill Redoubt; the one on the Hill where General Spencer's Brigade is encamped, Spencer's Redoubt; below this hill, on a wharf, is a Fascine Battery called IVaterbury's Battery; on the hill directly above it is a Redoubt, near the Jews' Burying-ground, by the name of Badhm's Redoubt. Andrew O'Brien, Sergeant, and William Welch, Corporal, both of Captain O'Hara's Company, in Colonel ]Vynkoojp's Regiment, tried by a late General Court-Martial,

(Parole, Mnsjord.)

New- York, May

25, 1776.

(Countersign, Leonard.)

Captain Butler, of Colonel Nixon's Regiment, tried at a General Court-Martial on the several charges exhibited " Defrauding his against him by Lieutenant Walker, viz Company, defrauding the publick, absenting himself from his Company when on their march, and inlisting a man unfit for the service," is acquitted of the several charges against him. The General approves of the sentence of the above CourtMartial, and orders that Captain Butler be released from his late

:

arrest.

John Moore and Joshua Smith, both of Colonel Ritzema's tried by the above Court-Martial for "absenting

Regiment,

themselves from Camp without leave, and forging a pass," are found guilty, and sentenced to receive corporal punishment, viz Moore thirty-nine lashes, Smith twenty lashes, and both to be kept seven days confined on bread and water. :

General approves of part of the above sentence, and punishment to be put in execution tomorrow morning, at the head of the Regiment, at guard mounting but for several reasons thinks proper to disapprove of the latter part of the sentence. A working part}', consisting of nine hundred men, to be ordered to-morrow morning, from the different Brigades and

The

orders the corporal

;

Regiments, viz General Heath's : Colonel Learned's, Colonel Bailey's, Colonel Read's, and Colonel Baldwin's, to go to Pauius

Hook.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY,

635

General Spencer s : Colonel Parsons and Colonel TVyl' Bayard's Hill ; Colonel Huntington's to Red-Hook Colonel Arnold's to Fort Stirling; Colonel JVard'SjMy ly's to

men men

with

fonr

provisions

clays"

to

cut

These

pickets.

be provided with axes this day, and to parade tomorrow morning, at five o'clock, on tlie Boivling-Grecn. The remainder of this Regiment's working party at Fort George ; a party of which will be reserved to load boats. Lord Stirling's: Colonel iMxon's, Colonel IVehh's, Colonel McDougall's, and Colonel Ritzema's, on Governour's to

Island, every day until further orders.

As there is great complaint of officers not attending properly, the Majors of Brigade are every evening to send an exact detail of the number of officers and men they furnish

They are always

Colonel Putnam, Engineer. two hundred men one Field Officer, Captains, nine Subalterns, twelve Sergeants, and

for fatigue, to

to furnish

three

to every

twelve Corporals.

Upon

17T6.

636

first appearance of any eruption, the any soldier is to give information to the Regimental Surgeon, and the Surgeon make report of the

his country.

officer discovering

same

the

it

in

Director-General of the Hospital. party from Colonel JSixon's Regiment are to be ordered every day to Long-Island, instead of Goverto the

The working

nour's Isla7id, as mentioned in yesterday's orders.

The form of a Morning Report (which the Captain of the lower barrack guard is to make every day to the Field Officer) may be had by applying to any of the Brigade-Majors an(i it is expected this form will be duly attended to.

;

Head-Quarters, New-York,

May

27, 1776.

(Countersign, Pomfrtl.)

(Parole, Killinsly.)

Nathaniel Stanley, of the First Compan}' of Colonel iVyllys Regiment, tried by a late General Court-Martial, whereof Colonel Ritzema was President, for " absenting

" Doctor Foster appearing before the Committee, says that information was given to General Putnam that several persons had been inoculated at the house of one Fisher, in

Company, after he had received a month's pay and blanket-money:" The Court find the prisoner guilty of a breach of the eighth article of the Continental Rules and Regulations, and do sentence him to be whipped thirty-nine lashes on his naked back, and be confined seven days upon bread and water. John Broivn, of Captain Scott's Company, in Colonel Wylly's Regiment, tried by the above Court-Martial, for " desertion :" The Court find the prisoner guilty of the charge, and sentence him to be whipped twenty lashes on his bare back for said offence. The General approves the above sentences, and orders the execution of them to-morrow morning at guard mount-

Stone Street, contrary to a resolve of the Provincial Con-

ing.

himself from, and refusing to join said

Head-Quarters, New-York,

May

26, 1776.

(Countersign, Trumbull.)

(Parole, Hancock.)

"In Provincial Congress, New-York, Mo;/ 25, 1776. Messrs. John Berrien and Robert Harpur, two of the Members of the General Committee of the City of JS'ew-



York, delivered

was read and

in

filed,

the Report of the said Committee, which

and

is

in

the words following, viz

" Committee-Chamber,

May

24, 1776.

gress of this Colony; he, the examinant, (agreeable to

Ge-

Putnam's order,) immediately went to the house of the above-mentioned Fisher, where he discovered that Lieutenant-Colonel Moulton, Captain Parks, Doctor Hart, and Lieutenant Brown, had been inoculated by Doctor Azor

Captain Harwood is not to take any other men more than his own Company at present, from Colonel Learned's Regiment, to serve on board the whaling-boals,&.c., except by the consent of Lieutenant-Colonel Shephard ; whose consent the General imagined Captain Harwood had ob-

Betts.

tained,

neral

Doctor Azor Beits being sent for, appeared before the Committee, allowed the charge against him, and offered in his vindication that he had been repeatedly applied to by the that he officers of the Continental Army to inoculate them refused ; but, being over-persuaded, he at last inoculated the above-mentioned. persons ^'Resolved, That Doctor ^;ior Betts be committed to the Jail of this City, and be kept in safe custody until released by the Provincial Congress. "Ordered, That a copy of the Minutes relating to Dr. Azor Betts' s case be handed to the Provincial Congress. " Extract from the Minutes

when he gave him

the order this morning.

•'

;

"Joshua Winter,

Secretary."

" Messrs. Berrien and Harpur further inforin, that the wife o{ Azor Betts, on her examination, says, that Lieutenant Seymour, from Long-Island, had informed her that seven persons of the Army (officers, as she understood) on Long-Island were taking mercurial preparation, and, as he supposed, were inoculated or preparing to be inoculated for the small-pox.

"Ordered, That a copy of the Report of the General Committee to this Congress be delivered to Major-General

Putnam ; that he give such direction to the Continental Army, for preventing the small-pox among them on Long-

may

Island, as he

think necessary.

" Extract from the Minutes:

"John McKesson,

Secretary."

Head-Quarters, (Parole, Lynn.)

New- York, May

28, 1776.

(Countersign, Satem.)

Colonel Prescotfs Regiment to be mustered at nine o'clock, Thursday morning, on their Regimental parade. Three men from each Regiment in the three Brigades of Generals Heath, Spencer, and Lord Stirling, together with two Subalterns and two Sergeants, to parade at General Putnam's Quarters, to-morrow morning, at six o'clock. These men are to be such as understand rowing. The General Ccurt-Martial, of which Colonel Ritzema

was President,

is

dissolved,

and the

officers to return to their

ordinary duty.

A

Wheelwright from each Regiment in the three Brigades above-mentioned, to parade in front of the Laboratory, at eight o'clock in the morning, and receive their orders from Mr. Hughes, Assistant Quartermaster-General. After Orders,

A

May

28, 1776.

Sergeant, Corporal, and twelve men, to be immediate-

upper barrack guard to Paulus-Hook, woiks there and secure the working tools. This detachment to be immediately replaced by a like number from any one Brigade, who will be allowed From henceforward the their quota in to-morrow's detail. guard at Paulus-Hook are to take with them four days' provisions, and to be relieved every fourth day, commencing to-morrow. ly detached from the

who

are to guard the

The

General presents his compliments to the honourable the Provincial Congress and General Committee, is much obliged to them for their care in endeavouring to prevent the spreading of the small-pox (by inoculation or any other

way)

in this

prove

City, or

fatal to

the

in

the Continental

Army

if

Army, which might

allowed of at

this critical time,

is reason to expect they may soon be called to and orders that the officers take the strictest care to examine into the state of their respective Corps, and thereby prevent inoculation amongst them, which, if any soldier should presume upon, he must expect the severest punishment.

when

there

action

;

Any officer in the Continental Army who shall suffer himself to be inoculated, will be cashiered and turned out of the Army, and have his name published in the Newspapers throughout the continent as an enemy and traitor to

Head-Quarters, New-York, (Parole, Chamhly.)

May

29, 1776.

(Countersign, Tlwmpson.)

One man from each Regiment to parade to-morrow morning, at six o'clock, at General PiUna7n's Quarters, to go on board the MiJ/lin armed schooner. These men are to be such as best understand the business. A reinforcement to be added to the upper barrack guard, of one Sergeant, one Corporal, and twenty-four Privates. The above guard is to furnish four additional sentries over the Laboratory, and four over the magazine of forage. For the placing those sentries, and the orders they are to reis to be made to Mr. Hughes, Assistant Quartermaster-General. A General Court-Martial, consisting of one Colonel, one

ceive, application

Lieutenant-Colonel, one Major, and ten Captains, to

sit to-

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

C37 morrow morning,

may

prisoners as

Colonel

such

at nine o'clock, for the trial of all

be brought before them.

JVJ,roH, President.

Members : Lieutenant-Colo-

Major Wells. Captains: Ganaral Heath's Lord Stirling's, 2 General Spencer's, 4.

nel Sliejjhard,

Brigade, 4

;

;

The names their crimes,

of the prisoners to be to be given

and evidences,

MAY,

1776.

the Judge

Ad-

vocate this afternoon. All evidences to give due attendance on the Court. James Grant, of Captain Watcrhouse's Company, in Colonel Parsons's Regiment, tried at a late General Court Martial, whereof Colonel Ritzema was President, for "destroying his arms, abusing the Sergeants, and insolently affronting his officers," is found guilty, and sentenced to pay for his arms, and receive twenty lashes on his bare

638

But before this method was taken, publick notice was again given by advertisements, requesting them to satisfy this Committee of the reasons of their non-cornpliance which they have not done. cealed.

;

By

order of the Connnittee

together with

tried, in to

&:c.,

Elias Bavley, Chairman. P. S. This Committee are of opinion that John Livingston, Jun., ought to be kej)! in custody till lie produces (jnc Smith, his hostler, wiio is kept secreted by Livingston's family.

SAMUEL BREWSTER TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS. In Committee,

New- Windsor, May

31, 1776.

Gentlemen We have this day ordered back to the city of New-York a certain Isaac De Witt, who lately :

back.

The General

approves of the sentence, and orders the

came

here without a certificate from his Colonel or

com-

corporal punishment to be inflicted to-morrow morning, at the

manding

head of the Regiment, at guard-mounting. Daniel Kitts, of Colonel Ward's Regiment, and Captain Allen's Company, tried at the above Court-Martial, for " stealing a shirt." The General thinks proper to postpone

on examination, that he is a person who may well be suspected as iniinical to the liberties of his country, never having signed the General Association and his coming here

sentence until further orders. Joseph Lent, of Colonel McDougall's Regiment, and Captain Hoyt's Company, tried at the above Court-Martial, for " disobedience of orders and striking his commanding officer. Ensign Young, when in the execution of his his

duty,"

is

found guilty of disobedience of orders, and senten-

ced to be confined five days on bread and water, in the Provost dungeon. The General is not a little surprised at the sentence of the Court on the prisoner, Joseph Lent, and thinks the punishment so inadequate to the crime, that he disapproves of the sentence. The General hopes this hint will make future General Courts-Martial more particular and severe on the heinous crime of a soldier striking, or attempting to strike, his officer, or disobey his

commands.

Head-Quarters, New-York,

(Parole, Virginia.')

May

30,

1

7T6.

(Countersign, Carolina.)

Head-Quarters,

New- York, May

31, 1776.

(Countersign, Geor^a)

(Parole, Portsmouth)

The

Provost-Marshal to make a report in writing, every morning at Head-Quarters, of the prisoners he has in charge, specifying their names, regiments, companies, by whom confined, crimes, number of nights confined, tried or not tried.

Edmund

Britt, of Captain Butler's

Company, and Colo-

Regiment, tried at the General Court-ftlarlial whereof Colonel INixon is President, for '-desertion," is found guilty, and sentenced to receive thirty-nine lashes. Ahimaas Shenvin, of Captain Butler's Company, and Colonel Nixon's Regiment, tried at the above Court-Martial, for " desertion," is also found guilty, and sentenced to nel NLvon's

receive thirty-nine lashes.

The

General approves of the sentence on the above two and orders it to be put in execution to-morrow morning, at guard mounting. prisoners,

After Orders,

May

31, 1776.

General Washington has written to General Putnam, desiring him, in the most pressing terms, to give positive orders to all the Colonels to have colours immediately completed for their respective Regiments.

officer,

We

as directed by the Congress.

find,

;

contrary to the orders of Congress, (of which he did not pretend ignorance,) confirm this opinion. He goes back under the care of Lieutenant Anthony, of the New-York Militia.

There are some persons in this District whom (though they have signed the General Association) we have great reason to suspect as unfriendly to the cause of liberty and America ; and as we have no reason to expect any aid from those persons, it would, we conceive, be prudent to put it out of their power to injure us by leaving them possessed of arms which we much want, and they may use against us when most needed. We wish, therefore, to know whether the resolve for disarming suspected persons in the city and administering a certain test to them extends to the Province at large, and who are vested with power of executing the same. It gives us pain to find any person counteracting the ordei-s of Congress, and more especially so when it happens with those who profess friendship to the common cause. This has lately been the case with a certain Mrs. Lawrence, wife of Captain Jonathan Lawrence, who is a Commissioner under Congress at Fort Constitution,

Clerk there

;

both

in

and

the pay of the Continent.

shop here, then, knowingly contrary gress, has retailed

Bohea

son a

his

Law-

JNIrs.

rence, early in the spring, settled in this Precinct,

opened a

Conpound

to the resolve of

tea at eight shillings per

and, to evade the resolve in that respect, pretends to sell her tea at six shillings per pound, but will not let the purchaser have the tea unless he takes a paper bag to put it in at two

and so in proportion for a greater or lesser quantity. something so disingenuous in this kind of conduct, view it in a worse light than an open \aolation of the

shillings,

There

is

we

that rule.

Upon having this complaint laid before us, we thought proper to depute one of our members to wait on Mrs. Laiorence, (in tenderness for her sex,) and treat with her on this matter, by letting her know that, if she would desist fiom her present conduct

in

that particular, return the

extorted to the persons from

whom

she received

it,

money and

sell

we her tea at the price fixed by would make matters as easy as we consistently could. But she has refused to comply with this reasonable and indulgent proposal ; and the remainder of her tea has (as we Congress, in that case

informed since) been removed to Fort Constitution, under the care of her husband and son, which has much disgusted the inhabitants, as they conceive it as a kind of insult to have that fortress made an asylum for diat useless are

ELIAS BAYLEY TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS. In Committee for the District of Jamaica, ? May 31, 1776. 3

Gentlemen:

In consequence of a resolve of Provincial Congress respecting the returning of the inhabitants of the

Neiv-York who left the same since the 1st oi June Committee gave personal notice to all such persons as had moved into this District, requesting them to comply with the said resolve, limiting them to what this Committee thought a reasonable time for the same and, as many of

city

oi^

last, this

;

them, at the expiration of the said time limited, had not satisfied this Committee of their leave of absence from the said city ; therefore, we send such of those persons down to the city as

we can

get, the others

keeping themselves con-

We thought it proper, herb and the illegal venders of it. as also being in duty bound, to inform you of tliis matter, that what is right may be done therein, and in future the resolve of Congress may not be violated or evaded in this manner for want of punishing those who have already transgressed.

We have the honour, gentlemen, to be, with teem, your most obedient, humble servants. By order of the Committee

all

due es-

Samuel Brewster. Chairman.

To

the Honourable die Pro\incial Congress for the Colony

of

New- York.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

639

A

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read June

6,

Referred to Mr. f-herman, Mr. Wylhe, Mr. Sergeant, Mr. F. Lee, and Mr. Gwinnet ]

1776.

Fort George,

Sir: At eight

lliis

May

evening

31, 1776 I

— 10

in the evening.

was honoured with your I have aheady prcp;iied

despatches of the 24th instant. my letter for General Thomas, which, with co])ies of the

&c.,

MAY,

1776.

640

deluded set of people have branded

my

me

with a charac-

which I trust my conduct from early youth has given the lie to, and which it will continue but that man is not worthy of holding an to do in future honourable station in the glorious cause of America who does not sensibly feel and resent an attack upon his reputaIn these sentiments I have requested my General for tion. ter

which

soul abhors,

;

my

resolutions of Congress

an inquiry to be made into

at

the meanness of suspicion, for his feelings are the most delicate; and although his opinion does me the most ample

and the money you sent, will go off daybreak to-morrow morning. The resolutions of Congress have given me new life, although I by no means desponded at the unlucky accidents which have lately occurred in Canada. I have been long and deeply impressed with a just sense of the importance It was, therefore, a of iTiaintaining our ground in Canada. most pleasing circumstance to me to see General Thompson's brigade followed by that of General Sullivan. If possible, I wish to see another succeed the last. I have thought

prudent to prepare for its conveyance across the lakes, having built, since General Sullivan left me on the 24th instant, sixty batteaus, which are now in this lake; nor am I under any apprehensions of supplying the Army in Canada it

with provisions, provided it is sent up to Albany in sufficient quantities ; for although it is an arduous task, perseverance, close attention, and hearty good will, can surmount a variety of obstacles. By accounts received this afternoon from officers returning from Canada, I learn that General Sullivan must have arrived at St. Johns this day, with

all

his

brigade, except

Colonel Dayton's Regiment, which is still in Tryon County, and where, I 6nd, it is the opinion of the Committee oi Albany as well as mine, that it is necessary he should remain at least for the present. I

enclose you a return of provisions sent lately into Ca-

The quantity of flour is small, because I was advised by the honourable Commissioners and General Arnold, that and yet the officers returning it could be procured there nada.

;

from thence inform me that our Army is in great straits I wish Mr. Price had complied with my request, and for it. made me frequent returns ; but I have unfortunately never received a single line from him since he left this place. You will excuse me if I refer you to my letter of this I date to my worthy General, for sundry other matters. assure you I do not take this liberty without reluctance, and it does not arise from indolence you will therefore readily excuse me for it. ;

Return of Stores and Provisions

receii

justice, yet

made

it

is

conduct.

a natural wish that

my

as puhlick as the charge against

His soul

is

above

innocence should be me, which has been

industriously propagated, and ere this has probably reached every quarter of that country to the preservation of which all is devoted. Be assured, sir, that nothing shall be wanting on my part to fulfil the views of Congress in every matter committed to my charge. The intermittino- fever has left me, my health is restored, and I am capable of undergoing any fatigue. As soon as I return from Skenesborough, whither I am going to give directions about the gondolas, I shall proceed to Albany, and employ proper persons to purchase whatever I shall think the Army may stand most in need of. The Deputy Commissary-General, in a letter of yesterday's date, informs me that no more pork is left at Albany. Our Army now in Canada and on the communication requires daily fifty barrels of pork and something more of flour, in-

my

cluding the extra expenditures

;

I

wish, therefore, that

a

regu-

and constant supply should be kept up. The Hospital is gone into Canada with a tolerable assortment but as many of the sick return to this place and Ticondcroga, it is necessary to make some provision for them, and I wish medicines may be sent up, as we have none of any kind. General Thomas is at Chambly, ill of the small-pox, and, as I am informed, in rather a dangerous way. Where General IVooster is I know not my last accounts say on the way to this country. General Arnold is gone against the Eighth Regiment and Indians, whom he has obliged to retreat. I have, therefore, requested the Commissioners to open the letters directed to General Thomas in case of his lar

;

;

death. I am, dear sir, with every sentiment that respect and esteem inspire, your most obedient, humble servant, Philip Schuyler. To the Honourable John Hancock, Esquire, &,c., &c.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

641

This morning thii'ty carpenters left tliis to repair to Slcenesby the way of Ticonileroga, in order to construct gondolas, although nothing is prepared for building them. I hope, nevertheless, to finish one in a short time, at least I will do everything in my power to complete it the soonest possible; and for that purpose 1 shall leave ibis to-rnorrow Since General Sullivan's departure, I to put all in train. have finished sixty batteaus nor shall I cease until I am advised by your Excellency that no more troops are coming this way. I wish a person that understood the construction of the for although they best gondolas was sent up express to me should not be able to get down the falls of Chnmbly, yet they will be of service on Lake Champlain, should our Army The vessels we have there (except be obliged to retreat. the Royal Savage) are of very little force. Enclose your Excellency my orders to Colonel Daijton, his letters, and other papers, relative to the transactions in Johnstown. Mr. Yates, the Secretary o[ Indian Affairs, will transmit you the speeches of the Indians and the answers to them. I am just informed that General Thomas has taken the small-pox. He is at Chambly, and in rather a dangerous boroui!;h,

Sic,

MAY,

1770.

642

bo occasion. It is necessary that Sir John Johnson should not be apprized of their real design, and I have therefore written him on the subject of moving (lie Highlanders from Tryon County, which you will please to perus*;, seal, and send to him by express the soonest possible. I am, &ic., Philip Schuyler. there should

To

General Sullivan.

;

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO

The

Sir:

whenever the troops

shall

arrive there,

who

Philip Schuyler.

To

John Johnson, Bart.

Sir

Dear affidavits,

Philip Schuyler.

His Excellency General Washington.

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO THE COMMITTEE OF ALBANY. Saratoga,

Gentlemen: Mr. Duer

May

14, 1776.

capable of giving you some important information with respect to the intentions qf the forces in this and the neighbouring Counties. I could wish that a Secret Committee was appointed to receive his intelligence. And lest a delay should be occasioned in taking proper measures to counteract our enemies, I have furnished him with sundry papei-s, to be made use of if you should judge it expedient he will lay them before the gentlemen you may appoint for their insi)ection, and if the measure be approved, they may be sealed and delivered as directed. Mr. Duer will be under the necessity of concealing the names of the persons who have given him and me the information, as the parties have my word and honour for it but he is ready to give his information upon oath with respect to what has been delivered by affidavit or otherwise. I am, gentlemen, with great esteem, your obedient, humis

;

;

Philip Schuyler.

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL SULLIVAN. Saratoga,

Sir

me

is making hostile preout of his power to carry them into execution, by securing his person for which I have

parations,

into with

it

is

my

last

winter,

duty to put

it

;

given orders, as likewise for the removal of the Highlanders,

on request of their chief, Mr. McDonald. This latter will be the reason given for the march of the troops to Johnstown, that they may not be insulted by imprudent people.

These intended operations

will

make

it

indispensably ne-

cessary that you should immediately inform the

Mohawlcs

that some troops are going to Johnstown, but that no evil and it is also absolutely neceswill thence result to them sary that you and Mr. Gates should move up with the troops, and as soon as 'Sn John is apprehended, inform the Indians, ;

as well the other nations as the MohaivJcs, of the reasons

which occasioned it, and which will be given you by JNlr. Duer, who took one of the affidavits, and who was present I need not recomat the examination of another person. mend that the greatest secrecy is necessary, your o\\ n good judgment will point that out. Philip Schuyxer. 1 am, dear sir, Stc,

To

Volkert P.

Douw, Esq.

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO COLONEL DAYTON. Saratoga,

May

14, 1776.

Sir General Sidlivan will order you to proceed to Johnstovm with a detachment of the regiment under your command. On your arrival there you will take up your quarters at the house of Gilbert Tice, inn-holder, and give notice to the Highlanders who live in the vicinity of the town to reand when any number are collected you will send pair to it off their baggage, and infirm women and children, in wagons, for which you will apply to the Committee of the County You will make an exact list of of Tryon, or some of them. the men, women and children, distinguishing those under five years old, and those from five and under twelve, from copies of which you \\ ill transmit those beyond that age me you will give the strictest order that no abuse be given to the persons of these people, and that all their elfects be secured in such a manner that the most trifling part of their :

;

:

May

14, 1776.

;

may not be destroyed. After having secured the Highlanders, you will

property

Some

time ago an information on oath was lodged with me against Sir John Johnson, charging him with hostile intentions against us this has since been confirmed by further information from persons whom I am not at liberty ;

name. Judge Dwer, who has taken one of the examinations, and was present at another, will inform you more particularly. This has induced the enclosed order to Colonel Dayton, whom I beg you will detach with three hundred of his most alert men, to execute this business, and to order the Commissary-General to furnish him with six days' provision, and carriages to convey it, and to prepare to send more if to

Fourth

1776.

;

ble servant,

Dear

DOUW. May 14,

Sir: Having received information, supported by that Sir John Johnson, slighting the engagements

he entered

;

I am, dear sir, ever most sincerely your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant.

P.

Saratoga,

the provisions, or stores, nor the least information

injured country.

are ordered to

conduct them to Albany, that they may not experience any insult that might be ofiered by intemperate people. I am, sir, your humble servant,

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO VOLKERT

from any officer in command, of the disaster that befell Colonel Bedel at the Cedars ; but I fear it is too true, as it is confirmed by several persons arrived since I wrote this letter, who left Montreal on Sunday, the 26th. 1 am informed by persons of good credit that about one hundred persons, living on what are commonly called the New- Hampshire Grants, have had a design to seize me as There never was a man so a Tory, and perhaps still have. infamously scandalized and ill treated as I am and I hope Congress will publickly do me that justice which I thank your Excellency for having done me in your letter of the 21st, if that respectable body is convinced (of which I make no doubt) of my zeal and attachnient to the cause of my

15, 1770.

Congress that those people with their families may be moved from thence and subsisted. You will therefore please to advise them to prepare and be ready to come to Johnstotvn

have not yet had any return from Canada, either of the

Army,

May

Mr. McDonald, a chief of that part of name now in Tryon County, has applied to

elder

the clan of his

way.

To

JOHN JOHNSON.

Fort George,

;

I

SIR

Series.

— Vol.

vi.

let

Sir

John Johnson know that you have a letter from me, which you are ordered to deliver to him in person, and beg his atIf he comes, as soon as you have tendance to receive it. delivered the letter and he has read it. you are immediately to make him close prisoner, and carefully guard him, that he may not have the least opportunity to escape. ^^ hen you have done this, you are to repair to his house, taking him with you, and after having placed proper sentinels to prevent any person belonging to the family from earning in or out papers, you are to examine his papers in his own presence and in the presence of William Duer, Esq., who ac-

41

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

643

companies you, and with whom I wish you to consult when If you find any papers relating to any any difficulty arises. intended operation against the cause ol' America, or any letters from British Governours or officei-s, or agents of the Ministry, you will make a list of such papers and letters, copy whereof you will deliver to Sir John Johnson, and another, together with such papers and letters, you must transYou and Mr. Bur.r will both give your words mit to me. of honour that you will discover to no person whatever the contents of any papers or letters which are of a private naAlture, and which do not affect the cause ol America. though Sir John is to be closely guarded, he is by no means to experience the least ill-treatment in his own person or those of his family: and you are to be particularly careful that none of the men under your conuTiand, or any persons whatsoever, destroy or take away the most trifling part of his property,

except arms and ammunition, which you are to

secure and' bring down with you and deliver to Mr. Fhilip Rensselaer, store-keeper, with a charge to keep them safe In securing Sir John Johnson, until further orders from me.

and and ter

searching his house, I wish the least tumult possible, end you are not to suffer private soldiers to enYou will constantly unless by your immediate order.

in

to that

it,

keep strong guards and good look out, that you may not experience a surprise, botli in marching to and whilst you remain there and on your return, having seciu'ed Sir John Johnson and brought him to Albany, you are there to cause him to be guarded with the same attention, and to send me ;

notice of his arrival. I

am,

sir,

your humble servant,

Philip Schuyler.

To

Colonel Dayton.

MAY,

&c.,

644

1776.

prevent any insult that might be offered by imprudent or malicious peojile to yourseli'or your family. I am, madam, your most obedient, humble servant,

Philip Schuyler.

To Lady

Johnson.

SIR

JOHN JOHNSON TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Johnson-Hall,

On my

Sir;

return from

May

18, 1776.

Fort Hunter yesterday,

I re-

by express, acquainting me that the elder Mr. McDonald had desired to have all the clan of his name I know in the County of Tryon, removed and subsisted. none of that clan but such as are my tenants, and have been for near two years supported by me with every necessary, by which means they have contracted a debt of near two thousand j)ounds, which they arc in a likely way to disAs they are under no obligations charge, if left in peace. to Mr. McDonald they refuse to comply with his extraorditherefore beg there may be no troops sent to nary request conduct them to Albany, otherwise they will look upon it as Mrs. a total breach of the treaty agreed to at Johnstown. McDonald showed me a letter from her husband, written since he applied to the Congress for leave to return to their families, in which he mentions that he was told by the Congress he then desired that that it depended entirely upon you their families might be brought down to them, but never mentioned anything with regard to moving my tenants from Mrs. Mchence, as matters he had no right to treat of. Donald requested that I would inform you that neither herself nor any of the other families, would choose to go down. I am, sir, your very humble servant,

ceived your

letter

,

;

;

John Johnson.

To

Philip Schuyler, Esquire.

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO SIR JOHN JOHNSON. Saratoga,

May

10, 1776.

Sir After candidly scanning, coolly considering, and comparing the variety of information which imputes to you the most hostile intentions against the country, I could have wished, for the sake of human nature, to have found them Unhappily they are too well supported by the groundless. testimony even of those who were intrusted with the secret of your intended operations, and whose remorse has induced them to so full a discovery as not to leave a doubt on my mind that you have acted contrary to the sacred engagements you lay under to me, and through mc to the publick.

COLONEL DAYTON TO GENERAL SCHUYLER.

:

It

is,

therefore, necessary for the safety of the inhabitants,

and the weal of the country, that I should put it out of your power to embroil it in domestick confusion and have therefore ordered you a close prisoner, and sent down to Albany, to be thence conveyed to his Excellency General Washington, thereby discharging you from your parole. But influenced by, and acting upon, principles which will never occasion a remorse of conscience, I have at the same time ordered that no insult should be offered to your person or family, and that your property should be guarded and secured for, sir, Americans engaged in with a scrupulous attention the cause of liberty remain uninfluenced by the savage and brutal example which has been given them by the British troops, in wantonly setting on fire the buildings of individuals, and otherwise destroying their property. I am, sir, your humble servant,

Johnstown,

May

22, 1776.

Sir I arrived here on Sunday last, with a party of about three hundred men under my command. In consequence of your orders, delivered to me by General Sulliva7i, immediately on my arrival I sent Major Barber with a letter to Sir John Johnson, desiring him to acquaint me at what time the Highlanders would be assembled at Johnstown, that I might escort them to Albany, agreeable to your letter by :

express.

Major Barber was informed by Lady Johnson that Sir John had received your letter, in consequence of which he had assembled the Highlanders, who said that Mr. Mc-

;

;

Philip Schuyler.

To

John Johnson.

Sir

Donald had no

Saratoga,

Madam

:

Mr. Duer, who

is

14, 1776.

so good as to take charge of

advise you of the pain Sir

this, will

May

JohCs conduct has

occasioned me, and how much I have been distressed at the He sad necessity which obliges me to secure his person. will also inform you how much I suffered on his account last winter but although he has forgot the obligations he lies under to me, yet his usage will be such as if he had not, for I am incapable of prostituting my office to resentment. ;

I entreat

you, therefore, to

make

yourself perfectly easy on

Should you choose to accompany or follow Sir John, all the care and attention will be paid you which is due to your rank and sex but if Sir John chooses that you should remain, an officer's guard will be left, if required, to

that head.

;

make any

application to Congress

their account, and that they were determined not to surrender themselves and that S\v John had resolved to retire She insinuated, that if with these people into the woods. our people pursued them, they were resolved to defend themselves, and that they were not altogether unprepared. Soon after our arrival in town, several warriors of the

on

;

nation passed by our tents, on their way to Johnson-Hall, painted and armed according to their manner when they go to war. In consequence of this, I thought it proper to defer my operations until Mr. Dome and Mr.

Mohawk

Yates retired from Fort Hunter, that I might know in what march of our troops was considered by the Mohaivlcs. On the return of those gentlemen, they informed me that the warriors were much dissatisfied with the march of our troops, and that their countenances threatened the

light the

most

general SCHUYLER to lady JOHNSON.

right to

hostile

intentions

;

but that the sachems seemed dis-

and promised to meet me I must refer you the next day.

Johnstoum about ten, Mr. Caldicell for the particulars of this conference with the Indians, which did I flatter myself you will not end until Tuesday afternoon. Mr. Douw and Mr. approve of my conduct in this matter. Yates will, of course, communicate to you everything relative

satisfied,

at

to

to this negotiation.

If we

may

give credit to the intelligence

we have

received,

John, «ith upwards of three hundred persons, several of whom are said to be armed, attempted on Tuesday morning I imato make his escape through the woods to Canada. gine, for my own part, it is more probable diat, by the assistance of some Indian guides, he may attempt to make his escape to Niagara, and I have taken every possible precauWith' tion to prevent his escaping by that communication. S'\r

'

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, MAY,

645 Canada

respect to the

route, I conceive,

sir,

tlmt yourself

will be tlie most proper person to prevent the success of such a measure. Lest the intelligence 1 have received should prove false, and Sir John and party should still he lurking in the woods, I have thought it advisable, with the advice of several members of the Committee of the Mohaivk District, and of Mr. Diier, to take possession of Johnson-Hall, in order to cut off the communication of provisions and intelligence from that quarter to Sir Johtis party. I have published a proclamation, refjuiring the wives and parents of those persons who have fled from their habitations, to repair to Johnstoiun, &c., a copy of which Mr. Cald-

You may be assured that I well will present you with. have already pursued, and shall still continue to do so, every measure which may tend to execute your orders, and prevent the wicked designs of our enemies in this quarter. As Mr. Caldwell, the Chaplain of my regiment, has been privy and very serviceable in all my negotiations, I thought it proper that he should wait on you, to give you a detail of our situation here. If you think it proper that we should stay here till we have obliged the Highlanders to come in, (in case they are still lurking in the woods,) or until other troops can be sent to take possession of this place, you will oblige nie in ordering Mr. Caldwell to join me with all despatch, as Mr. Duer says he will soon be under a necessity of going to In case you should think it advisable for my New-Yorlc. regiment to stay here any time, we shall have occasion for a further supply of provisions from Albany, unless you can

put us in some

way

of procuring

it

in this

country.

quarter, that

this

I

am

in

hopes the Congress

proper to station a parcel of Publick buildings in son.

men

will think

it

here during the next sea-

this town would, with a little expense, be made very defensible. I mention this with all submission to your better judgment. I shall, from time to time, inform you of everything which deserves your attention during my stay here and I am, in the meantime, with the greatest respect, your most obedient, humble servant, ;

Elias Dayton.

To

taken.

It

is

646

TrumhuU

obliged to Mr.

for the step he has something singular that at the very time 1 to apprehend T(jries, to whom I am so

was sending troops

obnoxious that they would not hesitate to assassinate me, the country below should be arming against me a.s a Tor)'. I am extremely sorry that the bird is flown however, I hope still to see him in custody, unless he should have escaped to the westward. I am perfectly in sentiment with you, that the most vigorous measures ought to be pursued against Sir John Johnson and his infernal a':sociates and I therefore wish that a considerable sub-Committee of the Committee of the City and County of Albany was sent into Tryon County, to join the Committee of that County, and to fall upon the most effectual measures to secure the country. To prevent the necessity of sending to me, should you adopt what I recommend, and need the aid of troops, I enclose you an order to Colonel Dayton. The two compa;

;

Tryon County raised there, you will also dispose of you think best for the publick service. I have sent scouting parties from this and Ticonderoga to the westward. Should Sir John and his crew be gone that way to Canada, he will in all probability fall into our hands, as I shall immediately convey the intelligence. If the Highlanders are really gone off armed, Sir John and the37cjDonalds have been guilty of a fraud, in not delivering up their arms last winter; and I must beg of you to signify it to the nies in

as

Congress, that the McDonalds may be closely confined. Would it not be best to have all the Tories in Tryon County brought away? I

For my own part, I see so plainly the bad consequences which may accrue from a neglect of vigorous measures in

am much

I

1776.

am, gentlemen, most sincerely, your obedient, humble „ „ Philip Schuyler.

servant,

To

Walter Livingston, Esq., and the Gentlemen of the Secret Committee.

colonel DAYTON TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Johnston,

May

Sir

:

To

General Philip Schuyler.

24,

1776—3

enclose you a deposition which

o'clock P.

M.

have taken since I sent to you by express, and have annexed the testimony of another person, which tends to confirm the former. I am, sir, yours, with much respect, I

General Philip Schuyler.

I

Elias Dayton.

GENERAL. SCHUYLER TO COLONEL DATTON. Fort George,

Dear Sir:

May

22, 1776.

have requested the Committees o{ Albany and Tryon jointly to take such measures effectually to seI

cure the country against the infernal machinations of the Tories, as shall appear to them most expedient ; and it is the orders of Congress that the military should give aid to the civil wherever required

:

you

will please to afford

them

whatever you can witli the troops under your command. I have suggested to the Secret Committee the necessity of ousting every Tory in Tryon County I hope they will come into it, and call upon you. I need not suggest to a gentleman of your good sense, the necessity of attention and vigilance, and that regard for humanity which I trust will always characterize the friends of liberty in America. I am, dear Colonel, your most humble servant, ;

Philip Schuyler.

To

Depositions talcen before

William Duer, May

Holy Evangelist of Almighty God, made oath, that on 23d day of May, 1776, he was informed hy Bartholomew Shaver, a Sergeant in Colonel Clctk's Regiment, that he was sent up as an express with a letter to Colonel Herkimer; that he (Colonel Herkimer.) had sent an express the the

to stop the batteaus belonging to the

carrying-place at Fort Stanivix return,

was

;

;

to stop the boats at the carrying-place, but that they

refused to stop; on which the Indian informed him that he

was not

surprised, that these boats were intended for Sir

Johnson,

And

whom

John

they were to wait for at the Oneida Lake.

further this deponent saith not.

Colonel Elias Dayton.

James Billington. before me, this 24th day of May, 1776.

general SCHUYLER TO WALTER LIVINGSTON. Fort George,

May

22, 1776.

Gentlemen By General Sullivan, who arrived last night, :

was favoured with both your letters of the 20th instant. I am much obliged to you for having taken prudent measures to prevent the evils that might be occasioned by the I

scandalous and false reports propagated to prejudice your respectable body and myself with the publick. must bear with the caprice, jealousy and envy of our misguided friends, and pity them. Our Tory enemies we must watch with care and circumspection, and convince our countrymen by our actions, that we are true sons of liberty. I have some reason to apprehend that the Tories are not the only ones

We

have been assiduous in propagating this story. In the you mention are some persons who applied for offiwhich neither the Committee nor I could confer. This

district

ces,

Indian traders at the

that the express, on his

was met by an Cneida Indian, who asked him what was upwards that he informed the Indian it

his business

Sworn

that

23, 1776.

Jatnes Billington, of Stone Arabia, being duly sworn on

disappointment chagrins them, and, sioned the report.

I

believe, they

have occa-

William Duer.

A

person who came from Fort Stanicii told the Committee of Kingsland District, in presence of Mr. f andu-sen, that Mr. Ellvic had told one John Roof, wagoner of Fort his boats were either to stop at Oswego, or end of the Oneida Lake, iMr. T'andusen does not well recollect at which of these places the man said.

Stamcix, that

at the other

The above

testimony given

in

my presence May 23.

1776.

William Duer.

The Committee

of

German Flats

District

have received

information that a road was marked fixan Johnson-Hall ta Fort Brewington, on the Oneida Lake.

COLONEL DAYTON TO GENERAL SCHUVLER. Johnson,

May

24, 1776.

Sir: In my letter sent yesterday by the Rev. Mr. Caldwell, informed you of my intention of possessing Johiuon-

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

647

MAY,

&c.,

1776.

648

Hall; a guard and sentries are so placed as to intercept any communication with any part of the country. Previous to this, I sent an officer with a letter to Lady John-

should appear, the balance as to numbers, by the junction I am, however, so well of those left, would be against us. aware of the absurdity of judging with precision in these

my design, and requesting all the keys, order to examine Sir John's papei-s. Colonel If hite, Ma.pr Barber, and myself, waited upon her shortly after. She immediately produced all the keys, with a considerable

matters at the distance we are from one another, that prudence obliges me to leave these matters to your judgment,

effectually

son, inlbrmini; her of ill

to act as circumstances

my

may

Notwithstanding the

occur.

The letters were carefully perused in papers. presence of herself, and a few selected, copies of which I

of the 25th instant, when I directed in the letter above quoted to post yourself in the most advantageous place on the Mohawk River, I did not

own hands

transmit you by this express, retaining the originals in my until I shall have the pleasure of seeing or con-

sion being used

The house also was exaveying them more safely to you. minecrin every part. Since I\lr. Caldwell \dx this place, I am more assured that Sir JoAn, with his party, marched from

west of Schenectady.

these settlements on Monday last hr Niagara ov Canada. Lady Johnson assures me he is on his road to Niagara, and As the guards and that we shall soon hear where he is.

of keeping a force in that part of the country, that I have already advised his Excellency General IVashington of my

round the Hall must increase the pain of her situation, I have requested her to remove to Albany, where, as I To this she seems understand, she has several friends. averse, but for what reason I know not and I would therefore be glad to receive your direction on this head also. In consequence of an express despatched Colonel Her-

pleasure.

number of

sentries

;

I understand he has collected his Militia, in order to prevent Sir John^s escaping through that part of the coun-

kimcr, try. I

am,

your most obedient, very humble servant,

sir,

orders contained in

mean

it

in its literal

am

I

to the

banks of the

frequently for I

all

mention

river, that

this, lest

The

sense.

scouts

have had out from hence

I

By

for several

Fort George,

May

1776—11

25,

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO WALTER LIVINGSTON.

M.

of yesterday's date was just now dethat by Mr. Caldwell is not come to hand. livered me The declarations of Lady Johnson, that Sir John is gone to Niagara, and that we shall soon hear where he is, induces letter

;

to believe that he will be joined by a party from Niagara, perhaps at Osivcgo, under Major Hamilton, of which I had a hint in a letter from Canada, which arrived about twelve

me

I therefore

last night.

think

it

advisable that

Albany without delay, in and commodious manner to her. You will

should be

moved

to

Lady Johnson the most easy also

move

days

John or his party, although he has been twelve miles above Sacandaga. I am, dear sir, with great esteem, your most obedient, humble servant. Philip Schuyler. To Colonel Elias Dayton.

Gentlemen

o'clock A.

his

the report of the officer, he has been

Fort George,

Your

know

careful and diligent, but cannot discover anydiing of Sir

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO COLONEL DAYTON.

:

lies

you should take

so perfectly in sentiment with you on the necessity

past are returned.

General Philip Schuyler.

Sir

expres-

which

that country

orders for you to remain there, and prayed to

Elias Dayton.

To

you

to confine

letter

of the 23d. Johnson's letter.

I

wish, for the sake of

he had acted more becoming

27, 1776.

its

dignity.

human

He

nature, that

has stamped

himself with infamy. You will perceive by the enclosed copy of the letter to Colonel Dayton, that 1 have ordered him to remain in Tryon

He will not be moved from thence unless by GeneIVashington s orders, or unless you may think his stay unnecessary, which I hope may be the case soon, that he may join his brigade in Canada, where I wish to see our

County. ral

field as all

the Highlanders and their families to that place this done, you will post yourself in the most advantageous place on

May

was yesterday honoured with your favour You were perfectly right to open Sir John I

:

I

respectable as possible.

am, with great

truth,

gentlemen, your most humble ser-

;

Mohawk

River, to secure that part of the country and awe the enemy ; and remain there until further orders, adIt may be necessary to remove all vising me of the place. the

the Tories out of

Tryon County

;

on

this

you

will

I

am,

sir,

may be no danger of a rescue. your most obedient, hunrible servant, Philip Schuyler.

To

Colonel Elias Dayton.

Philip Schuyler.

'

Walter Livingston, Esquire, and the Gentlemen of the Committee.

To

advise

with the Committees of Tryon and Albany, as well as on the most eligible place for you to occupy. Should Sir John fall into your hands, you will send him down under such a guard as that there

^^"

general SCHUYLER TO THE COMMITTEE OF ALBANY. Fort George,

Gentlemen

May

27, 1776.

am honoured

with your letter of the 25th instant, enclosing a copy of the Committee of Tryon's to you, of the 21st instant, Douivs note desiring your advice on the former, and yours of the 25th to the Committee of

Tryon

:

I

consequence thereof.

in

Your advice

to let

them pass with such merchandise as

manifestly intended for trade with the Indians, was extremely proper for you to give, under the information you is

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO COLONEL DAYTON. Fort George,

May

27, 1776.

Sir Since my last, which was of the 2.5th instant, by Mr. Fonda, I am favoured with yours sent by Mr. Caldwell to Albany, and this day delivered to me by Mr. Yates. I am perfectly happy that your operations in Tryon County have been conducted with that prudence which distinguishes the officer and the man of sense. From a conviction that these qualities were happily combined in you, I expected what I have experienced. I am favoured with a letter from Mr. Caldwell, in which :

he suggests the propriety of suffering such Highlanders to 1 enter fully remain at their habitations as have not fled. into his idea but prudence dictates that this should be done These people have been taught under certain restrictions. to consider us in politicks in the same light that Papists consider Protestants in a religious relation, viz: that no faith is to be kept with either. I do not, therefore, think it prudent to suffer any of the men to remain, unless a competent number of hostages are given, at least five out of a hundred, on condition of being put to death if those that remain should take up arms, or in anywise assist the enemies of our country. A small body of troops, as Mr. Caldwell observes, may keep them in awe but if an equal body of the enemy ;

;

had, as

it

say that

put

it

out of the power of the upper nations to but to have no intercourse with them

we meant

;

some of them have actually joined the King's troops above Montreal, I do not now think it prudent that any

since

batteaus should be permitted to pass Port Stamuix, unless such as are designed to trade with the Sbc Nations ; besides, we may excuse ourselves to the Indians on the breach of

promise that those traders have been guilty of, and inform them that they had very little intended for them. I wish, therefore, that my sentiments should be conveyed to the Committee of Tryon the soonest possible, unless you and Mr. Douw should think them imprudent, and tending to the detriment of the service. I

am, gendemen, most respectfully, your obedient, hum-

•^l^''^^-"^^"^'

To

the

Philip Schuyler.

Committee o( Albany.

Gentlemen: Since writing you on the other side, I have received the enclosed, by which you will perceive the necessity of stopping all such batteaus as were designed for the upper country and 1 beg you will send by express to the ;

Committee of Tryon County, and It is

to

Colonel Dayton.

absolutely necessary that our Militia should be put

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

649 on a better

footing,

and brought

to

some

discipline.

pray

I

(jod this may not be neglected until it is too late to repent of the neglect. I am, with every respectful and friendly wis!), gentlemen,

your most obedient, humble servant,

GKNERAL ARNOLD TO GENERAL GATKS. Chambly, May 31, 1776.

My

dear General your kind

for

I

:

letter

am

of the

a diousand

times obliged to

oi April, of which

;3d

have

1

be ever happy in your friendship and society; and hope, with you, that our next winterquarters will be more agreeable, though I must doubt it if affairs go as ill with you as here. Neglected by Congress below pinched with every want here ; distressed with tlie small-pox want of Generals and discipline in our Army, which may rather be called a great rabble our late unhappy retreat from Qiubcck, and loss of the Cedars ; our credit a most grateful sense.

I

shall

;

;

;

and reputation

and great part of the country and a are so many powerful foreign enemy advancing upon us, My whole thoughts difficulties we cannot surmount them. are now bent on making a safe retreat out of this country however, I hope we shall not be obliged to leave it until we have had one bout more for the honour o( America. I think we can make a stand at Isk-aux-Noix, and keep the lake this summer from an invasion that way. We have little to fear; but I am heartily chagrined to think we have lost in one month all the immortal Montgomery was a whole campaign in gaining, together with our credit, and many men and an amazing sum of money. The Commissioners this day leave us, as our good fortune has long since but as Miss, like most other Misses, is fickle, and ol'ten changes, 1 still hope for her favours again and that we shall have lost,

;



;

;

the pleasure of dying or living

happy

together.

In every vicissitude of fortune, believe me, with great esteem and friendship, my dear General, your obedient and

humble

To

servant,



-r,

Benedict Arnold.

General Gates.

P. S. For particulars respecting us to the honourable Commissioners.

you

MAY,

1776.

650

Jahez Huntington, William Willwims, Mathaninl Wakt, Jedcdiah Elderkin, Joshua IVest, and Jicnjurnin JIuniingtrm, Esquires.

Whereas His Honour the Governour has just received inCommittee of the honourable General Assembly ol'the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay, iliat a lar"c Army of foreign troops, hired by the Ministry and powers

telligence from the

Philip ScHuyi.nit.

you

&tc.,

I

beg leave to refer B. A.

NEWBURYPORT, (esSEX county,) MASSACHUSETTS.

of Great Brititin, to lay waste and destroy this country, are in fact on their passage to execute their bloody orders, and, ill all probability, near our coasts, and may be daily expected, which renders it necessary that every possible preparation should be made for our own defence: therefore resolved

It is

the

men

lately ordered to

and ordered by be

this

Board, That

detached out of the First Regiment, and other Regiments east of Connecticut River, be immediately furnished and completely equipped, armed and accoutred, according to the orders given for their being raised, and that they be fitted for an immediate march on any emergency. And in order to that, the Colonels, or commanding officers for the time being of the aforesaid Regiments, are required, without any delay, to direct the Captains, or chief officers appointed to command the several Companies of said Minute-men, forthwith to call their said

Companies

together,

(who

inlisted or

are also required to yield obedi-

ence to the orders of said officers, on penalty of the law;) and said Captains and officers are carefully to examine into the equipments of their said Companies, and diligently attend to and see that they be forthw ith furnished as aforesaid and where arms and ball cannot be otherwise obtained, they shall be furnished out of the town stocks, so far as may be, and arms impressed, if need be, fiom such householders, or othei-s who shall appear to be least able and likely to make use of such arms, &c., themselves, to supply such as cannot be otherwise furnished and any civil authority are to give out such impresses, on request of such Captain and other officers. And every non-commissioned officer and soldier, who shall appear to be completely equipped with every requisite, or shall be so equipped in a reasonable short time, to the acceptance of such Captain, shall be entitled to a reward of one dollar, and in proportion for the value of such articles as they shall furnish themselves and all such officers and soldiers shall be allowed a reasonable reward for the use of such arms, ammunition, blankets, and knapsacks, as they shall provide for themselves, if called to be used in actual service and shall also be allowed for the time necessarily spent in meeting together, according to the direction and for the purposes of this resolve, at the same rate of wages and support as the Continental Army, and if called into actual service, to be upon the same pay and allowance from their march, as the troops in said Army. And all arms and accoutrements impressed, found, or provided for any of said Companies, shall be taken care of and returned to the owners, and a reasonable allowance made for their use and the Captains are directed to take care of the same accordingly; and if lost by inevitable providence, the value to be paid. And it is further provided. That if it shall be found necessary, such Captain, or chief officer, may order said Companies, or any part of them, to meet as often as necessary, in order to their being equipped as aforesaid and all arms and ammunition of su:;h Companies shall be deposited in some proper nearly central place of such Company, by tlie direction of the Captain of the same, to be also a place of rendeavous for such Company, if and when called to actual service. And the said Captains are to make return of the rolls and the state of said Companies, with all their doings in the premises, forthwith, to his Honour the Governour. And whereas it is expected that the honourable General Assembly will find it expedient to make further provision of a similar kind, with respect to drafting or inlisting Minutemen for publick service, the aforesaid Companies may expect ;

;

;

;

Newburyport,

Voted, That

if

May

31, 1776.

the honourable Congress should, for the

them independent of Great with their lives and fortunes, supthe measure.

safety of the Colonies, declare

Britain, this port

them

in

Town

will,

STOCKBRIDGE, (BERKSHIRE COUNTY,) MASSACHUSETTS.

At a legal Town-meeting of the inhabitants of the Town of Stockhridge, at the Meeting-House in said Town, for the purpose of choosing a pei-son to represent them in the Great and General Court or Assembly Voted, That

it

:

the mind of this meeting, should the

is

great and important question of the

Independency of the United Colonies of Great Britain be discussed in the Great and General Court or Assembly, that he give his vote for the affirmative.

PITTSFIELD, (BERKSHIRE COUNTY,) MASSACHUSETTS. instructions

from the Town of Pittsfield to their ReMr. Valentine Rathbun, for Indepen-

presentative,

dence.

You shall, on no pretence whatever, favour a union with Great Britain, as to our becoming in any sense dependant on her ever hereafter and use your influence with the ho;

nourable House to notify the honourable Continental Congress that this whole Province are waiting for the important moment which they in their great wisdom shall appoint for

;

;

such limitation of time for holding themselves in readiness as aforesaid, and such allowance therefor, as the said As-

sembly

shall see

fit.

the declaration of Independence and a free Republick.

CONNECTICUT COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Monday, May 6, 1776. At a meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety at Lebanon : Present: His Honour the Governour, Eliphalet Dyar,

Wednesday, May 22, 1776. .\t

a meeting of the

Governour and Council of Safety

at

Hartford His Honour the Governour, the Deputy GoPresent vernour, Colonel Dyar, Colonel Huntington. William Williams, Nathaniel Wales, Jedediak IMerkin, Beryorttn Hun:

tington, Esquires.

PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, MAY,

651

Mr. James Rice, one of the Committee for fitting the CoHrii,' Defence, and for building the Ko\v-(jalley, at Ncio-Havcn, presented liis Accounts to be settled, &.C., as voted by the lower House. &:c. It being so large and numerous, this Board cannot at this time go tiirough with the examination, and consider and order that an Order be drawn on the Pay-Table for seven liundred Pounds in his favour, and refer the full settletiient of his Account to anotiier opportunity; he to attend it at Lebanon. An Order is drawn accordingly, viz lony

"To the Committee of the "Gkntlemen: Piease

V ay-Talk:

draw on the Treasurer in faJames Rice, o( New-Haven, for the sum of seven himdred Pounds, to bo considered and allowed on settlement of his Account exhibited for fitting the Colony Brig Defence, and building, &:c., a Kow-Galley, ^l Neiv-Haven, not liavin" time Adly to settle and adjust said Accounts, and vour of

to

"By

drawn by Captain Scth Harding, of the Brig De-

ing Orders,

fence, presented and delivered in by the following Drawees, viz

:

One Order by said Harding on Captain Samuel S(/uire, in favour of Lieutenant

Brig, for so

order oi'the Governour and Council of Safety: " William Williams, Clerk.

"Hartford,

May

Ma-

first

favour of

28

of said Harding on said Squire, m Eilmund Barlow, for a Drum for said

May, 1776, Harding on said Squire, in o{ Hezekiah Sturgcs, for Plank and

favour

work

Order be drawn on the Pay-Table for the same to be accounted for by said Harding, on his account and wages in the Colony service as Captain of said Brig, &c. And an Order Ls drawn accordingly in favour of said Harding, or order, for said sum of eleven Pounds nineteen Shillings and two and a half Pence, and delivered said Rice; and took Harding's Order, endorsed by said Rice. ;

Tuesday,

May

28, 1776.

:

Voted, That an Order be drawn on the Pay-Table for Ebenezer Ledijard, Esq., as he is Commissary and provider, Sic, for the Company stationed at Groton Fort, for the sum of three hundred Pounds, to be accounted for on settlement of his Account as Commissary, &,c. Order given Captain fV. Ledijard. Voted, That an Order be drawn on ditto in favour of Messrs. Elderkin and Wales, for the sum of twenty-five

Pounds on account, and pay for Powder by them manufactured for the Colony, and to be settled and allowed on their account for making that article. Order given and delivered said Elderldn, at Hartford. Allowed an Account oi Hezckiah Lane, oi Killingworth, sending expresses to Colonel Matthew Talcott and Colonel Jonathan Fitch, to carry Governour, &c., orders about raising two Regiments for New-York, by request of General Washington, in March last, being twenty-six Shillings; and that an Order be drawn accordingly. •Order given and delivered him at Hartford. for

in

discharge of the follow-

PENNSYLVANIA CO-MMITTEK OF SAFETY. Commitlcc of Safety, Philadelphia, May

9,

2Sth ^p-//, 1776, of said Harding on said Squire, in favourof £6c7icrer Hubbel, for four days' work,

for said Brig,

2 10 3

per day,

-

-----Friday Evening,

l

£69

May

40 7 8^

31, 1776.

At a meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety at Hartford : Present His Honour the Governour, Honourable Deputy Governour Griswold, Eliphalet Dyar, Jabez Huntington, William Williams, Richard Law, Jedediah Elderkin, Benjamin Huntingt07i, Thomas Hosmer, W. Hillhouse, Esqs. :

Moved, by His Honour, That proper measures be takea

man and

to

list

our three Row-Galleys,

immediate service.

And

now

nearly ready,

the matter was largely dis-

coursed, &.C.

And

Voted,

That Messrs. John McCleave, Theodore

who are appointed Captains of them, be notified and desired to attend this Board, at Hartford, on Wednesday next, to receive further orders respecting manning, officering, and fitting out said Vessels and also such moneys as may be necessary to enable them to pursue the proper business of their departments, having first executed bonds to be sent them, with sureties, for the faithful and due performance of their duty as Paymasters, &ic. And Mr. Huntington desired to prepare Letters accordingly. Stanton, and Jehiel Tinker,

;

An Account

of Oliver Wells, of Hartford, presented for wagon to transport the bag-

service seventeen days, with a

gage of Captain Bigclow's Company of fllatrosses, in Colonel BurraVs Regiment, inc., seven days, at seven Shillings, and ten days, at five Shillings, and expenses four Pounds fifteen Shillings and six Pence total nine Pounds fourteen Shillings and six Pence. And the same is allowed. And Voted, That an Order be drawn for the same, and is drawn on the back of the Account, and delivered Mr. Halsey. :

Dismissed.

—At



The Letters and the Council Board. Captains of the new Galleys being to be forwarded, &tc., and names not being given to two of them, is concluded to call Captain Stanton's, built at Norwich, the Shai-k; and Captain T'inkcr' s, axEast-Haddam, the. Crane. June

Bonds

1st.

to the

of Saltpetre, 1776.

5

One Order

for

At a meeting of the Governour and Council of Safety at Hartford : Present His Honour the Governour, Honourable Deputy Governour Griswold, Colonel Eliphalet Dyar, Colonel Jabez Huntington, William fViUiams, Jedediah Elderkin, Benjamin Huntington, Esquires.

5J

of said

at six Shillings

;

2

Brig, 1), Dollars, 6th

One Order

Order given 28th, (delivered Captain Squire,)

Said Rice also presented an Order on the Governour, fcc, drawn by Captain Harding, of said Brig Defence, in favour of said Rice, for eleven Pounds nineteen Shillings and two and a half Pence and it is considered and voted, that an

In

Smcdley, of said

as necessary to pay the

for the Brig,

One Order

22, 1776."

Delivered him present.

Voted, That Orders be drawn

much

month's pay, dated New-Haven, March 22, 1776, being as per endorsement received by said iS'wcf//e^, of said .S'jM/re, £61 One Order of said Harding' on said Squire, in favourof Thaddeus Burr, Esq., for Beef, Sic, rines their

.Mr.

charge accordingly.

652

1776.

to

be manufactured into Gunpowder, taking a

receipt for fhe same.

Robert Morris, Vice-President, Daniel RobcrJun., James Biddlc, George Clymer, Michael Hil/rgas, Samtiel Hnwell, John Nixon, Samuel Morris, Jun., David Rittenhouse, George Gray, Joseph Parker.

Upon application of Thomas Hunberger for a sum of money to bo advanced him to assist completing the Powder-Mill In; is now building, and Jacob Antony appearing,

That Captain William Richards be appointed Husband to the A'aval Armaments of this Province,

Resolved, That this Board lend the said Thomas Hunberger the sum of one hundred Pounds, and that the Committee of Accounts pay him the same, they taking a bond of the said Hunberger and Antony. Resolved, That Mr. Rittenhouse and Mr. Owen Biddle be a Committee to prepare Moulds for the casting of ClockWeights, and send them to some iron furnace, and order a suilicient number to be immediately made, for the purpose

Present

deau,

:

Thomas Wharton,

Resolved, Ship's

and that he be allowed per annum

for his services.

Resolved, That Mr. Rittenhouse be desired immediately to iiroeure a quantity of Caitridge-paper for large Cannon. Resolved, That Robert Towers, Commissary, deliver to Mr. Thomas Hunberger, or his order, twenty hundred pounds

and offering to be bound with the said Hunberger payment of the sum that may be lent.

for the re-

PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, MAY,

653

of exchangins; them with the inhabitants of their Clock-Wciglits.

this

Ciiy

for

Resolved, That Mr. David Rittenhouse antl Mr. Owen Riddle do engage immediately with proper persons to niai

.

I

.-.Q,-



.

of by Stephen Caronio, and in consequence of a Resolve Board of the "i-lth instant, by order of the Board an Order was drawn on John Nixon, Esquire, and others, the Committee of Accounts, for the payment of said Order, amounting to nine thousand Dollars. _, .• .„ r".,„to;r, P/>/.^ fnv tlip hpt. r^„ I . The following Instructions to Captain Jxcia, loi ine oethis command, were ter jiovernment of the Navy now under and sent him: tliis day drawn up, approved of, this

proper to acquaint you that Commodore Caidwell has, by his letter of the 27th instant, resigned the command of the fleet, as his ill state of health will not

We

"Sir-

think

...

.

,

,

readiness.

barracks on Fort-Island being now ready for the accommodation of the officers belonging to the boats, you

"The

are directed to order

all

the boats to be stationed at Fort-

No officers of the fleet are to absent themselves without your leave, or the leave of the commanding officer and you are not to suffer more than two officers to be absent at one time without some evident necessity, taking particular

Island.

;

care that such officer return punctually at the time menNo officer of the fleet is to tioned in his leave of absence. lie out of his boat or other vessel to which he belongs, without your leave, or the leave of the commanding officer. "As the safety of this City and Province depends chiefly

upon the armament under your command, we direct you to pay the strictest attention to the duties of your important station, and to establish such regulations as will conduce to promote good order and discipline, without which no milltary establishment can lono- subsist."

appointed to consider of a proper

mode

of providing Cartridges for the different bores of Fire-Locks in the hands of the Associators report, that the practice of our Commissary upon the authority of Book^, is two-fifths

weight of each Ball to a charge of Powder, which proportion has been ascertained by actual experiment^ as lately reported by a Committee appointed out oi the Bat-

ol the

up '

That follows

this

proportion, reduced to different Bores,

is

as

Ball 13 to the pound, Ball 15 to the pound,

------9 ------ 8

7 6 6 5

Ball 17 to the pound,

Ball 19 to the pound, Ball 21 to the pound, Ball

24

to the

Ball

30

to the pound,

That,

pound,

the several

grs.

20 12 12 16

------4

in order to ascertain the

Musket through

numbers and

Battalions in

sizes of

the

2 8 Q each

Province,

government of our Commissary. in making up Cartridges, we take the liberty to recommend to this Board to furnish the Committee of each County with one or two sets of Punches, to mark 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Stc, also, with as many sets of Formers as will answer to the above seven sizes. That each Committee appoint to each Battalion a person to size the Guns, and mark each size on the Breechpin or on the lower end of the Barrel. That each Colonel issue orders to the respective Captains, or Commanding Officer in each Company in his Battalion, to send an exact account of the number of good Fire-Locks in their several Companies, with the sizes of them, which shall be entered by the Colonel in a book to be ke[)t by each Regiment, to be denominated the Size-Book. As soon as the sizes are obtained they must be immedi-

for the

lliat the

talions.

Resolved, That the above Report be approved of, and two hundred cojjies be printed, to be sent to the Committees of the different Counties.

that

Resolved, That Commissary Towers be ordered imme-

Formers and as tfiany and marking the Fire-Locks of be immediately sent to the Committees

diately to provide forty-four sets of

Punches,

sets of

for sizing

the Associators, to of Inspection and Observation in the different Counties

May

In Committee of Safety, p^,^^^^^^

^

^^.^^^^^^^^ '

j

'

,„

,

Cadwallader, Ihomas '

Upon

30, 1776.

Chairman, John M.von, George ^^^^^^^ j^.J j^^^^^^ j^ j^^^^

j^^^^^^

^

m



""s Province.

,',^, I

'

,

Vharton, J un.

application of Robert Morris, Esq., the

orders to Lieutenant

Hume,

Board gave

Armed Boat Ranger, to Boat going down the Bay

of the

send two men on board a Pilot on publick service,

Robert Towers, Commissary, was directed to deliver one Bidwell and Walter, for

ton of crude Sulphur to Rlessis. refining.

g ^^j^^ ^f (i^^ ^^^^^ ^„ Qrder was drawn on Michael jim^gas, Esq., Treasurer, in favour of John Nixon and ^^i^^^.^^ ^j^^ Committee of Accounts, for ten thousand Pounds, „ t. ^«';^"' Commissary, was William Thomson, or his ordex, Mr^'jff.'; •

/--.

z

j-

j

i

i-

directed to deliver to

.

^^

one ton of Sahpetre, ^^^ « proportionable quantity oi Sulphur for working up Gunpowder at his Mill in Uarivick Township, Bucks bounty.



Resolved, That the representation made to this CommitCommittee-men of the Borough and Township

tee from die

in Buclcs County, be sent up immediately to the honourable House of Assembly, as the matters contained in i^ =»PPear very important and proper for the notice of that

oi Bristol,



"ouse.

In Committee of Safety,

p^^^^^j ^^^^^



.

j^^

j^^^^

May

31, 1776.

Chairman. John Nixon, Samuel

j^j^^^^^

j^^^^^ j^-^^j^^ g^^^^^j ^^,^,^^; jj^^-^^

^^^^ ^-^^^ Alexander

j

JVilcocks,

^ .^^^^_

Thomas Whar-

,

,

L ^'^'^'"!;'

\

r

x

r,

^

/-vi

t

i

i

oj^er of the Board an Order was drawn on John ^s'l- ^"^ °thers, the Committee of Accounts, for

Pounds

ten Shillings, which, with filty pounds of ordered to be delivered him by Robert Towers, Commissary, is in full of two hundred and twenty-eight forty-four



sizes.



,

above Report be confirmed and ordered to be printed, and copies sent to the several County Committees to furnish their Colonels of the respective Bat-

^,^Y

Dwt.

A A A A A A A

',

,

be constantly furnished, tied

and marked with the respective '

in bundles,

Rcsokeil,

talions in this City, as published in the publick prints, adopt-

ed by this Board and entered on our Minutes.

may

tridges suited to each bore

,

,

The Committee

Commissary, and any increase in the number of Fire-Locks to each Baltallon reported from time to time, that the number of good Fire-Locks m each Battalion may be ah\ ays known, and that the quantities of Carately transmitted to our

it

admit of his giving that attendance which the ciitical situation of publick affairs requires. . " The chief command of the fleet, consequently, for the dnected o hereby you are and you, upon present, devolves orders from this Board or Ironi the Assembly a 1 the see dii ' 11 c , ^ reason to appreAs there is the greatest strictly executed. hend an immediate attack, we think it absolutely necessary that the whole fleet under your command be in constant

668

1776.

Gunpowder

pounds of Saltpetre, manufactured ceived by Mr. Toivers.

Some days

past the honourable Continental

sent the following Resolve to this Board to

Province, and re-

in this

;

which

Congress is

ordered

be entered on the Minutes "In Congress, April

3,

1776.

"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 reprisal 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 and 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 warlike stores which writing shall be delivered to the Secretary of Congress, or to the Clerk of the House of Representatives, 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 before the commission or letters of marque and reprisal may be granted, shall. together with sufficient sureties, seal and deliver a Bond, in ;

;

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

669

the penalty of five thousand Dollars if the Vessel be of one hundred tons or under, or ten thousand Dollars if of greater

burden, payable to the President of Congress, in trust, for the use of the United Colonies, with condition in the form following, to wit " -The condition of this obligation

bounden

.

.

.

.

who

,

belonging to

,

such, that

Commander

is .

is

.

.

.

of

,

.

.

of the .

.

.

in

,

the above

if

.

.

the

called

Colony

mounting .... carriage-guns, and navigamen, and who has applied for a commission ted by ... or letters of marque and reprisal to arm, eijuip, and set of

Pennsylvania,

is

JUNE,

1776.

approved

;

670

and that the said Prisoners have

the allowance ordered to OHicers. " Extract from the Minutes:

"Charles Thomson,

Secretary."

Resolved, That Cai)tain Loxley ^nd Mr. Willi am Evans be authorized to procure; Timber for the following number

For thirty eighteen-pound Carriages, thirty twelve-pound Carriages, twenty nine-pound Carriages.

of Carriages

:

,

.

forth to sea the said

and

make

to

as a private ship-of-war,

,

captures of British vessels and cargoes, shall

not exceed or transgress the powers and authority which shall be contained in the said commission, but shall in all

and conduct himself and govern his crew by and according to the same, and certain instructions therewith to be delivered, and such other instructions as may hereafter be given to him, and shall make reparation for all damages sustained by any misconduct or unwarrantable proceedings of himself or the officers or crew of the said things observe

.

.

fee,

.

.

,

Sealed and delivered

force.

"

Which Bond

in

:

was

following Resolve of Congress

Board, and ordered

to be entered

President."

day delivered on the Minutes this

:

"In Congress, May 35, 1776. '•Resolved,

That the

Noj-th- Carolina, as

disposition of the Prisoners sent from

made by

the

Committee of Safety of

CAPTAIN NICHOLSON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Ship Defence,

Gentlemen

I

:

off

order of the Board an Order was drawn on

John Committee of Accounts, for two hundred Pounds, and ordered to be charged to the Account of Thomas Nevill and others, appointed to collect Lead for the use of this Province. In consequence of a Resolve of Congress of the .3d April

by order of the Board a Commission was granted for Mars, Aorm Cojrper, Master, owned by Mr. John JVilcocks and Messrs. John and Peter Chevalier, and

last,

the Schooner a

Bond

taken agreeable to said Resolve.

A Letter was this day seiit

Annapolis, June

1,

1776.

received yours this morning per Middle-

and ordered him down on the look-out. I have not I left them off Windmill Point, but apprehend, should they intend up the bay, you will certainly hear of them this evening. I am now proceeding with the ship up to Baltimore, where shall expect your further orders. I am, gentlemen, your most obliged humble servant, ton,

discovered anything of the ships since

Levi Hollin^sivorth them at Newport,

to

Rhode-Island, enclosing the following Resolves of Congress 30, 1776.

"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 Philadelphick as soon as possible.

"That

a

copy of the above Resolution be transmitted

to

the Governours of Rhode-Island and Connecticut.

" Extract from the Minutes " Charles Thojison, Secretary."

or evasion, elude the above Resolutions

by

refusing to sell

may depend upon being held up as enemies to their country, without respect to persons and they may be assured the Committee the above

article-s at

the said limited prices, they

;

such further steps (if necessary) as will effectually carry the above resolutions of Congress into execution. The Committee request that all virtuous citizens will use their utmost endeavours to detect and bring to justice all such persons as dare to offend against the above necessary will take

and highly

useful regulations. J.

James Nicholson.

To

to Messrs.

and Thomas Richardson, and directed

"In Congress, May

shall

"John Hancock, to the

'

presence of

be lodged with the said Secretary of order of Congress

By

Congress.

The

.

then this obligation shall be void, or else remain in

By

ISixon, Esq. and others, the

B. Smith, Secretary.

the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland.

PHILADELPHIA COMMITTEE OF INSPECTION AND OBSERVA-

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO HUGH YOUNG. [No.

Annapolis, June

4.]

1,

1776.

We

presume the first valuation of the schooner Ninety-Two was regular, and therefore conceive ourselves bound by it, without paying any regard to the subsequent proceedings of Cravath &/ Dugan. The necessary repairs which have been since made under your agreement ought Sir:

We

cannot now give orders to the schooner, and doubt very much whether she can sail at all, but of this will determine in a few days, and apprise you, or in your absence, the above gentlemen, of it. to

be added.

We To

Mr.

for the

City

Whereas

the honourable Continental Congress, by their Resolve of the 30th of May, empowered the said Committee to regulate the price of Salt: Therefore, Resolved, That the said article of Salt shall not exceed the following prices, viz Coarse Salt, 7s. 6d. per fine Salt bushel, 3s. 9d. the half bushel, and 2s. per peck 8s. per bushel, 4s. the half bushel, and 2s. 2d. per peck. And whereas Stephen Shewcll and Joseph Shewell, inhabitants of this City, have knowingly counteracted said :

;

Resolution of the 1st of J((ne,by selling coarse Salt at 12s. per bushel, and Is. 6d. the half peck, and fine Salt at 2s. the half peck and being charged with a breach of said Resolve before this Committee, Joseph Shcicell being pre-

are, fee.

Hugh

In Committee of Inspection and Observation and Liberties of Philadelphia, June 1, 1776:

Young.

;

PHILADELPHIA COMMITTEE OF INSPECTION.

acknowledged the charge to be just this Committee, in discharge of the duty they owe to the publick, and in order to show to the worid their resolution to support their limitations, which they are of opinion are founded on just and generous principles, after giving them previous notice, declare and hold up to the worid the aforesaid Stephen Shewcll and Joseph Shewell as enemies to their country, and preclude them from all sent,

At a special meeting of the Committee of Inspection of the City and Liberties of Philadelphia, June 1, 1776: Whereas the honourable Congress, by their Resolve of the 30th of May, have empowered the Committees of Inspection to regulate the jirice of Salt

Resolved, That that article shall not exceed the followCoarse Salt, Is. 6d. per bushel, 3s. 9d.. per half bushel, and 2s. per peck ; fine Salt, 8s. per bushel, 4s. per

ing prices

:

and 2s. 2d. per peck. And whereas the Congress have empowered the Committees of Inspection to regulate the price of Green Tea, as half bushel,

well as to execute their Resolve limiting the price o( at three-fourths of a Dollar per pound

Tea

trade and intercoui-se with the inhabitants of these States. Nathaniel Doxnell, Secretary pro tern.

MARK BIRD TO PHILADELPHIA C0M5HTTEE.

Bohea

Reading, June

1,

1776.

:

Resolved, That the price of the best Green exceed 32s. 6d. per pound.

Resolved likewise, That

Therefore

if

any persons

Tea

shall,

shall not

Gentlemen Agreeable :

art

your

of the 21st ultimo, with the several papei-s therewith sent, were laid before the General Committee of tliis County; letter

by any

to the assurance in our last,

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

671 and

1

directed to acquaint you that tiiey have aptheir body to attend the

am now

pointed a

number of gentlemen of

conference proposed to be lield in your city on the 18th of month, in order to a;,'ree upon and direct tlie mode of electing members for a Provincial Convention, a measure tliis

which "they conceive

be

to

cxtremi.'ly projier in itself,

and

the present situation of our affairs. The gentlemen nominated by the Committee are Messi-s. Henry

highly necessary

in

Halkr, Bodo Otto, Jacob Morgan, Benjamin Spycker, Nicholas Liitz, Vakniine Ecktrt, Charles Shoemaker, Hunter, Joseph Hiester, and myself,

Danid

who

will at-

tend at the time appointed. By order of ihe Committee. servant, I am, gentlemen, your very humble

Mark

Head-Quarters, New-York, June

have

moment (by

this

1,

1776.

express) re-

ceived the enclosed letters from Generals Schuyler and Sullivan, which I think of such great importance I shall immediately forward you, together with my answer to General 1 wrote you yesterday, but was too late for the Schuyler. post

;

shall

have arrived

men

forward at

on with

it

Hook,

the

this

since which five ships

;

three of which

I

suppose to be

Canada

Cedars ; hope Congress will immediately take the importance of that country into serious consideration, and immediately send on reinforcements, or 1 fear we shall lose what we had possestruly sorry for our defeat in

at the

sion of.

am

I

in so great haste I

some papers which

now

know

not but

I

shall

forward on

Both expresses

are of no consequence.

wait.

I have the honour to be, dear General, with esteem, your Excellency's most humble servant, Israel PtJTNAM.

To

of such a nature that

is

cannot leave

I

;

Had I been commisought to be appointed in my stead. sioned, I should before this have resigned besides all this, I am by no means a friend to independency, which I think ;

has or will take place soon, and shall not arm in defence of it.

any capacity

in

am, with much esteem, your obedient and very humble

I

servant,

Joseph f^ Bull. -,

Colonel Remscn.

June

His Excellency General Washington.

Agreeable

Sir:

I,

1776.

your request, I left ISew-York on Sunday last, in order to view the fortifications on Hudson's River, in the Highlands. 1 took with me Colonel Putnam, Chief Engineer, and Captain Sergeant, of the Artillery. The winds were so adverse that we did not reach Fort Montgomery uinW If ednesday evening; but with the help to

we employed

of our boat,

our time

parts of the river that appeared

in visiting several

proper

for Ibrtifying.

other

At

the mouth, or south end of the Highlands, about four miles

below Fort Montgomery, there is a post which to me appears well worth possessing, on many accounts should the ;

enemy best

of war.

am

I

672

lord STIRLING TO GENERAL WASHINGTON.

GENERAL PUTNAM TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. I

business

1776.

My

Bird, Chairman.

phia.

Dear General:

JUNE,

books, say the books of Corse if Bull, are in the country, to which, with many other matters, I must attend and as my residence is now there, I think some person it.

To

the Committee of the City and Liberties of Philadel-

To

My

tents.

fee,

be

in possession

of

it,

we

should be cut off from our

communication with the whole country below the High-

There is a very rewhich commands

lands, eastward as well as westward.

markable spot of ground, easily

fortified,

the passage of the river as well as either of the other posts it

commands

also

;

mouth and landing of Peek's Kill, an excellent road into Connecticut, which the

iiom which there is is only twenty miles off; on the opposite side is an excellent road into JSeiv-Jersey and Poinsylvania. The sketch of this part of the river (No. 1) will best show the propriety of its being fortified. In the passage from this place to

Fort Montgomery

is a large island, which would be very enemy in their approaches to that place. Fort Montgomery is situated on the west bank of the river, which is there about half a mile broad, and the bank one hundred feet high on the opposite shore is a point of land called Anthony's Nose, which is many hundred feet high, very steep, and inaccessible to anything but goats, or men very expert in climbing. A body of riflemen placed here would be of very great use in annoying an enemy, as the decks of every vessel that passes must lie open to

useful to the

;

GENERAL PUTNAM TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Head-Quarters, New-York, June

Dear General

1,

1776.

General Washington not being here, I sent forward a number of cannon, two tons of powder, intrenching tools, pork, Sic, agreeable to your desire in your :

Your express this moment arrived. I shall forward the letters on immediately to the General, who is Depend, sir, noyet at Philadelphia with the Congress. thing shall be wanting in my power to forward and assist

last letter.

the troops gone to

Canada

campaign.

this

Powder and

them.

The works begun and open lines, as may be

more

The little I sent you on soon forward on. with the guns, Sic, 1 hope is safe to hand before this. Provisions will be forwarded on as you could wish, and I doubt not Congress will immediately order on a reinforcement of men, which it is not in my power to do. 1 beg you will

On

want as soon as possible, and it immediately be sent on. It is with pain I hear of Colonel Bedel and the brave Major Sherburne's defeat at the Cedars. For Clod's sake, if possible, forward on relief to the Caughnaivagas imme-

as for the protection of the

we

lead

shall

write for every article you shall

diately, or 1 fear

we

shall lose

them

all.

and think

1

know them

to

of importance they Five ships, supposed to be men-of-war, have just arrived at the Hook, and I trust we are ready for them, come as soon as they will. I am, in the greatest haste, dear sir, your most humble

be a very brave nation,

it

should be secured to our interest.

servant,'

To

-n

x Israel Putnam.

General P. Schuyler.

projects

works, and

is

for ships at

Knox

tells

me

there

is

plenty of cannon

Crown-Point.

JOSEPH bull to henry REMSEN. New-York, June

Dear Sir

When

1,

1776.

week I expected to, but missed seeing you. On my return home met with your letter, but cannot by any means comply with the con:

I

was

in

town

last

Montgomery

into the river,

commands

all

the principal

within two and three hundred yards of them.

the top of this point is a level spot of ground, of near an acre, commanded by nothing but the high inaccessible mountains, at about twelve hundred yards distance; this spot, I think, should by all means be foitified, as well for the annoyance of the enemy in their approach up the river,

works

at

Fort Montgomery.

In-

appears to me the most proper place 1 have seen on the river to be made the grand post and, in my opinion, should be a regular strong work, capable of resisting every kind of attack, and of containing a grand magazine of all The whole would then command kinds of warlike stores. the passage of the river with so formidable a cross fire as deed,

this

;

The to approach with shipping. works finished, designed, or begun at Fort Montgomery Those are, each of them, distinguished in the plan No. 2. built are all faced with fascines, and filled in with strong good loam but as they are liable to take fire, the Commissioners who have the care and direction of the works, propose to roughcast the faces of the embrasures with a strong mortar made of quicklime and sharp sand, of which there is plenty at hand. I advised them to try the experiment on part of the work as soon as possible. As these open lines are entii-ely defenceless on the land side, it will be very proper to erect a small redoubt on the hill, in the rear of them, marked A. Fort Constitution is about six miles above Fort Mont-

would deter any attempt

;

P. S. Colonel

designed at Fort

seen by the plan No. 2, and all lie on the north side of a small creek called Pooplopen's Kill, on the south side of which is a point of land which are

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS,

673

gomery, on an island near the east side of tiie river, and near tlie nortii end of the Highlands, which on the west and south sides is bounded by the river, and on ihe north and east sides by low marsh and small creeks running through The works here consist of four open lines or batteries, it. fronting the river the two easternmost command the approach up the river very well the next, or middle line, commands the approach from West Point upwards the westernmost battery is a straight line constructed by Mr. Romans, it has fifteen embrasures, which face at a very great expense the river at a right angle, and can only annoy a ship in the embrasures are within twelve feet of each going past other the merlons on the outside are but about two feet in the face, and about seven feet deep, made of square timber covered with plank, and look very neat he also built a log house or tower on the highest cliff, near the water, mounted with eight cannon, (four-poundei's,) pointed out of Upon the the garret windows, and looks very picturesque. whole, Mr. Romans has displayed his genius at a very great expense and to very little publick advantage. The works ;

;

;

;

;

;

;

in their present

open condition and scattered

situation are

nor is there one good place on the island on which a redoubt may be erected that will command the whole however, I have marked in the plan (No. 3) those yet every work on heights which are most commanding defenceless

;

;

;

the island

is

commanded by

on the JVcst-Foint, within five hundred yards,

the

hill

on the opposite side of the river, where there is a level piece of land of near fifty acres in extent. A redoubt on this West-Point is absolutely necessary, not only for the preservation of Fort Constitution, but One also is for its own importance on many accounts. necessary at the west end of the island, to command the approach that way, and to prevent a landing at the north side of the island. An easy communication by land as well as by water may be made with Fort Montgomery from the West-Point. The garrison of Fort Constitution consists of two companies of Colonel Clinton's Regiment, and Captain Wisner's company of Minute-men in all about one hundred and sixty ranJc and file. The garrison at Fort Montgom,ery consists of three companies of the same regiment, amounting to about two hundred men rank and file. The field-ofHcer of the regiment is Lieutenant-Colonel Livingston ; but the command of the whole of both garrisons is still in the hands of Colonel NicoU, who, it seems, last fall raised a regiment of Minute-men for the purpose of garrisoning Fort Constitution, which regiment is all dismissed except Captain Wisner's company of about forty privates. Lieutenant-Colonel Livingston has very prudently avoided any dispute with Colonel NicoU about the command, rather referring the matter to your Excellency's determination. The whole of the troops at both these posts are miserably armed, as will appear by the return No. 4. LieutenantColonel Livingston informs me he has lately received about forty fire-locks, all in very bad order, from tlie Conunittees of Dutchess County, and expects several hundred more in a few days in the same condition. I have therefore directed the blacksmith's shop at Fort Constitution to be enlarged, so that it will at the same time serve for an armory. A blacksmith's shop and armory of the like kind, I have direct-



No. Return of the present

NAMES OF THE CAPTAINS.

state

of the Garrison

at

kc, JUNE,

1776.

674

ed at Fort Montgomery, and the artificers in those branches in Clinton's Regiment to be employed in them. The provision branch at these forts seems to have been strangely managed.

Mr. Walter Livingston, Commissary department of A'cu'- For/f and Canada, residing at Albany, supplied them. His Deputy, (a Mr. Phelps,) apfor the

pointed for

November

tlie

issuing provisions at these posts, has, since

been there in all about a fortnight. The care and issuing of provisions has, in the meantime, been left to a sergeant, who has dealt them out without any rule but his own caprice, indiscretion, and want of honesty.

Out of

last,

these hands the provision branch here has lately

hands of Mr. Abraham Livingston, who, by supply the troo])s in the New-York department. His Deputy, a Mr. Honan, now issues the provision but instead of doing it according to contract, by w hicli he is obliged to furnish two days' fresh provision per week, the troops have had fresh provisions only twice in six weeks. Complaints are loud against Mr. Honan's want of prudence and sobriety. Another inconsistency in this branch is, that while there is a very considerable stock of provision at Fort Constitution, laid in at Continental expense, by Mr. Walter Livingston, as appears by the return No. 5, a new supply is sent for immediate use by Mr. Abraham Livingston.

gone

into the

contract,

is

to

;

if this goes on, the old stock will perish.

The direction of the works at both these forts is in the hands of Commissioners appointed by the Provincial Congress o[ Neiv-York. Two Commissioners, with four carpenters, two blacksmiths and seven attendants, are at Fort Constitution ; two Commissionere, one clerk, fifteen carpenters, and four masons, are at Fort Montgomery ; the pay of these amount to at least eight hundred dollare per month, besides their provisions, &,c. One good engineer, with artificers from the Army, might, I think, do the whole business as well.

been brought into Fort Montgomery They are sent by DisCommittees of the Counties of Albany, Dutchess, and

There have

lately

several persons as notorious Tories. trict

Westchester, with directions to the

keep them

at hard labour until

commanding

officer to

their further order.

How

accords with the resolutions or intentions of the Continental or Provincial Congress I cannot determine, and far this

have therefore directed the commanding officer to employ them in the works, and to keep a watchful eye over them, until further order.

The

artillery

and ordnance

stores, at these

posts, ap-

pears by Captain Sargent's reports herewith, (No. 6.) The cannon in general are, to all appearance, excellent of their

two nine and three six-pounders, which are There are also, I am informed, six cannon, sixpounders, four of them good, and two dubious, at NewWindsor, a place about six miles above Fort Constitution they had better be brought down to Fort Montgomery. kind, excepting

dubious.

Considering the different directions all these matters are I have avoided giving any determinate orders about them, but it is highly necessary that explicit orders should

under,

soon issue. I am your Excellency's most humble servant, Stirling.

To

His Excellency General Washington.

4.

Fobt Constitution, May

29, 1776, Lieut. Col. Livingston.

CORRESPOADENCE, PROCEEDIlNGS,

675

No. 4

Caplain James Rosekrans's Company Capiain Abraham Swanwoul'j Com- (

pany

)

Company

Total al Fort Montgomery. .

.

*

I

do hereby

certify the

Lieuienant gone

home

sick

;

Ensign

above to be a true Return.

No.

A

5.

Return of Provision in the Store at Fort Constitution.

BY

WHOM

LAID

IN.

1776.

676

Fort Montgomery.

c

NAMES OP THE CAPTAINS.

Total at bolh Garrisons.

JUNE,

—Continued.

Present state of the Garrison at

Caplain John BflUnap's

&c.,

c

c

677

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, No.

A Bejjort

of Ordnance and Ordnance

k.c.,

JUNE,

678

6.

Stores, with all the implements for the service

GOMERY,

1776.

May

31, 1776.

of

the Artillery, at

Fokt Mo.nt-

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS,

679

seven large barrels left this on the 14th ultimo, and twelve day barrels arrived here on Thursday, and were that very or here. sent oft'; in short, nothing sticks either at Albany By recurring to some of General Woostcr's letters transto be mitted by me. Congress will observe tiiat there seemed but these no doubt of procuring a suflicient supply of flour, discipline and misfortunes will ever happen for want of Had that prevailed, I should not have been subordination. (as

have

I

to this

everything

hope every

1

very day)

left in

the dark with respect to

Canada.

in

officer in

the

Army by

this

time sees the

Congress evmce that the consequences that it I have long seen it, and dreaded it, and was easy to foresee would arise from the want of proper measure to inthat they will seriously set about the our military code was I cannot help wishing that troduce. made more severe thirty-nine lashes are not an adequate punishment for a wretch who, by laying down to sleep on

My

necessity of discipline.

letters to

:

exposes a garrison to be cut

his post,

off.

are not irretrievable, and hope we quarter. shall soon receive happier accounts from that your obedient and most I am, dear sir, most respectfully,

Our

Canada

affairs in

humble servant,

To

Philip Schuyler.

the Honourable

John Hancock, Esq.

St.

Johns, June

1,

that

I

Sir

arrived

I

:

here

;

Upon my arrival I was informed that General Thomas was down with the small-pox, without the least prospect of a General Woostcr

is

here, with his baggage, re-

means of which the command

done everything I possibly I have devolves upon me. could in the time to get information of the true state of affairs; and can, in a word, inform you that no one thing is everything is in the utmost confusion, and almost right The report every one frightened at they know not what. is that General Carlcton has advanced to Three Rivers, and the ships are coming up the River St. Laurence ; other ;

persons,

eighty miles below Quebeck, no appearance of men or ships on this and, for my own part, I am fully convinced

who have come from

declare that there side that city

;

is

that the latter report

is

true

;

however

that

may

am

be, I

army should live in continual fear, and enemy which no person has seen. I think they might at least have ventured some persons in whom they could confide, to view them from the neighbouring heights, and give some account of the numbers and movements but nothing of the kind is done. I shall set out early to-morrow for Montreal, and will proceed till I can find with certainty where the enemy is, and what they I find the lower, and some of the higher class are about.

surprised that an

even retreat before an

;

our favour, and fear that we are about Captain of the Militia this day waited on me, by desire, as he says, of three parishes, which offer to turn out six hundred men to assist us, and furnish them They complain that we have with arms and provisions. of French people to leave them.

in

A

slighted their repeated ofters to join us.

pretend to determine.

meet me the

men

them on

at

Chambly

in earnest, I

I in

have requested and

the morning

may

How

with as

;

much

this is I

cannot

their officers I

think,

propriety

our side as Carlcton does the Indians

on

being highly

making proper

men, and naturally destroys that subordinawhich ever ought to be kept up in an Army. There has been no return of warlike stores sent here and the powder sent from here to him, I am informed, has been greatly diminished, and no person can tell how. To give you a full account of what I have already learned would take a volume. I must, therefore, beg leave to refer you to the honourable Commissioners, who will give you full information on the subject. I shall, immediately after I find out where General Carleton with his formidable force is, and what they are about, give you the earliest information in the extreme. I have the honour to be, dear sir, your most obedient John Sullivan. servant, returns of their tion

;

the President of Congress.

MAJOR FRAZER to PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Boston, Saturday, June

if I

1776.

:

;

;

;

;

John G. Erazer.

To

the Honourable

John Hancock, Esq.

to

find

employ his.

1,

Enclosed is an exact inventory of every article found in the docks and harbour of Boston since the enemy You will please to observe I emevacuated that place. ployed two companies of men for that purpose, ten in each. Mr. Califf and his company would not receive any wages for their labour, but thought themselves entitled to salvage, 1 should be glad to know the as I wrote you before. determination of Congress about it before I go to Boston, for I promised them I would let them know at my return, also what will be done with the vessels and if possible cargoes, &c., left by the enemy, a list of which I enclose your Honour. My wages and rations as Assistant Quartermaster-General, 1 have never known yet and extraordinary duty in Boston, receiving everything that 'was left Also, whether the bargains and there of King's stores, &c. sales made by the King's officers just before their embarkwill stand good the consideration inhabitants, ation to the paid very trifling, and not their own property some of it, as well as many presents which they made of horses and carriages, Sic, which the agent has sold, but detains the money in his hands till your determination, and desired me to inquire about it. 1 would have waited on your Honour in person, but have been confined to my room these two days with the ague and fever. I hope to be able to set out for Boston on Tuesday Lieutenant-Colonel Buckmaster, of our regiment, next. was so badly wounded at Bunker-Hill, that he has never done any duty in the regiment since and the Surgeon of the regiment says he will never be able to do any more. General Greene wrote something about him to the Honourable John Adams by me. I am your Honour's most obedient humble servant,

Sir

Inventory of things taken out of Docks and Harbour

Boston.

I

however, endeavour to encourage their dispositions, I am extremely and make the best advantage of it I can. sorry to inform you that from the officers whose business it was to give Congress the true state of matters. Congress This I conhas not, as I believe, received anything like it. clude from the repeated letters sent to General Washington, giving the most favourable accounts, and promising a speedy reduction of (Quebeck ; when there was not even a probability of it, and the Army with which this was to be done bad dwindled into a mob, without even the form of order or regularity the consequences of which we have experienced by the infamous retreat from Qjucbeck, and the still

By

shall,



its

impolitick, will even prevent the officers from

must beg leave

Schuyler, sent to Tryon County, the latter, I hear, are New-York, 1 know not for what length of time.

turning to Connecticut, by

the country to another. This method, besides

last

detained at

recovery.

680

1776.

1776.

to inform Conevening with my brigade, except Colonel Dayton s and part of Colonel Wayne's Regiment the former of whicli was, by order of General

Much esteemed

gress

JUNE,

more scandalous surrender of the fort at the Cedars ; for the particulars of which I refer you to the honourable Commissioners, now upon their return to Philadeljihia. ] shall immediately appoint a Court of Inquiry upon Colonel Bedel and Major Buttcrfield, and transmit Congress the result and shall do everything in my power to rectify the disorder, and get the Army into some kind of regularity. I find no proper Commissary appointed, and the publick stores left to the mercy of sergeants and other persons, who are guilty of every kind of fraud. The regiments sent here are torn and divided into numerous parts, and scattered from one end of

To

GENERAL SULLIVAN TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

Sic,

E. Winter, Califf,

13 Anchors, of different sizes. 1 Anchor, 20 cwt. 1 qr. 21 lbs. 1 Anchor, 9 cwt. 2qr. 11 lbs. 1 1

1 1

Cable, Cable, Cable, Cable, Cable,

55 fathom, 6J-inch. 22 fathom, 84-inch. 100 fathom,

1

3-inch.

60 fathom, 7-inch.

fathom, 8-inch. 13 Cannon, 6 and 4 pounders. 1 13-ineh Morlar and Bed. 1 Gun-Carriage. 1

2.5

4 Wheels. 1000 of Boards. 2 pieces of Junk, 20 fathom.

8f

Company,

viz

:

36 fathom of 8|-inch Cable. 2 Chains for Carriages. 112 tweiily-four-pound Shot. 2 thirtecn-inch Shells. 4 ten-inch Shells. 105 small Shot.

4 4 93 8 32

eight-inch Shells.

three-inch Shells. four-pound Shot.

double-headed Shot.

Hand-Grenades.

Carriage for 3-ponnder. Carriage for 24 pounder. 45 Carriage Wheels. 1

1

of

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

681

A 1

1 1 1

number of Musket-balle. Carriage for 18-pounder.

body of a Cart. iron Weight, fifty-six pounds, piece of Junk.

Iron, suitable for

Carriages. 2 Wagon Cloths. 4 Saddles.

1

3 empty Casks. 2 Beds, 8 Rugs, 19 Blankets. 28 Planes, 12 Adzes. 24 Chissels and Gouges. 18 Broad-Axes, 18 Narrow- Axes, 5 iron Crows. 42 Watch Coats. 20 wooden Peck measures. 23 iron-shod Shovels.

1

Company

1

Charles Carroll.

To

Carriage for a 24-pounder. for hauling a Mortar.

44

C0.MM1TTEE. [No.

11 Hand-Saws.

1

for mast-heads.

1

10 Carpenters' Rules.

1

To

May

Portsmouth, June last

by Commodore Manly,

he;

since

which

experienced

have

I

;

I

shall

be

much

obliged

(if

a leisure

On To

[No.

he

will,

we

trust,

be greatly disap

behalf of the Council

I

have the honour

to be,

sir,

the

Committee of Safety of Virginia.

to receive the two-thirds of the proceeds, the dif-

may be

ingly useful to the

mode necessary

Remaining very assuredly,

sir,

servant,

for

me

Annapolis, June

7.]

2,

1776.

Sir We received youre dated diis morning off the harbour, and are pleased to hear that you were gone past to Baltimore. We would have you make the best preparation you can to repel any attack that may be made by our ene,^ies on either the fortifications or town of Baltimore. We :

be obviated; but if the two-thirds of the goods Those proved, the difficulty will still remain. goods that are not fully proved will be sold for the ContiYour advice and direction will be exceednental account.

To

in Virginia,

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPT. JAMES NICHOLSON.

ficulty will

that

1776.

my

;

is

2,

obliged to you for your

yours, Stc.

moment)

quoted above, with the Continendepartment, they not appearing The sufferers of Boston have sent forward a methis way. morial to the Congress, desiring their particular attention to The captors expect their full quota of the this capture. net proceeds of vessel and cargo, which no doubt will be the resolution of Congress but a difficulty arises how I shall come at that, unless the whole is sold at auction. If each claimant

much

to the letters

resolves respecting

tal

are very

pointed.

not been favoured with your answer. I can easily conceive of your engagements on matters of much greater concern-

ment yet by a reply

We

Our boats for four days past have favour of the 26th. brought us information from Captain Nicholson, of the Defence, on a cruise down the bay, that several men-of-war were at anchor ofi:' Wind-Point, above the mouth of the Rappahannock; and we are glad that you have given us If Lord Dunmore excertain advice what vessels they are. pects to meet with more favour in Maryland than he has

1776.

1,

Annapolis, June

6.]

Gentlemen:

of 22d April, (and previously of 15th,) on the capture of the brig Elizabeth, brought into this port

Committee of Baltimore County.

SAFETY. [No.

10, 1776.

addressed you

1

the

lbs.

JOSHUA WENTWORTH TO STEPHEN MOYLAN. Sir:

;

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO VIRGINIA COMMITTEE OF

Cart and Wheels. Part of four Carriages. Anchor, 31 cwt. 2 qrs. 14 Anchor, 25 cwt. 18 lbs.

John G. Frazer. Boston,

1770.

2,

received a letter this morning from

and as there is no telling the particular and as your town may possibly be an object with them, we have thought it proper to enclose you a copy, that, in case it should be necessar)', you may be We are, he. prepared to receive them.

Wheels.

Artillery

We

Virginia by express

thirteen-inch Shells.

40

14 Drawing-Knives. 30 Augers. Schooner's Shrouds and Clasp

:

destination of the fleet,

7 four-inch Shells. 5 Hand-Grenades. 2 Cohorns. 4 Swivels.

31 Pikes, 5 Squares.

Annapolis, June

5.]

Gentlemen

96 ten-inch Shells. 45 six-inch Shells.

iron Drawer, for nails.

the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland.

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO BALTIMORE COUNTY

Bed

271 Grape Shot.

Saws

am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant,

1

5 pair Chaise Wheels. 278 twerity-four-pound Shot. 645 twelve-pound Shot. 80 six-pound Shot. 358 thirty-two-pound Shot. 402 eighteen-pound Shut.

5 iron Spades. 2 small Cross-cut 1 Nail Hammer.

8f

C Compasses. Some old Junk. 30 fathom Cable, 14-inch. 68 iron Carriage Wheels. 3 Anchors, from 300 to 500 wL

1 barrel of Spikes. 2 casks partly full of Musket-balls

About 200

We

;

By Jonathan Blodget lbs.

682 ;

bundle iron Hoops.

I

1776.

sooner they arc got tlic Ijotter, as 1 fear the flour now begins I u as yesterday down at the fort they are pretty to spoil. forward, and the resistance they can now make if the enemy should come up, will not be very inconsiderable. are not in much apprehension of the Otter, or even double her force but in the Conncrtiait dialect of old Roger Shfxman, " Where is the powder."

1 pair of Cart-fills. 2 Carria(;c Tongues. 2 Chaise-Carrinf^c and Wheels. 30 Wlieols, largr anJ Bniall. 2 pieces of Cable. .5 falhoms Cable, 14}-inch.

2 iron Trueks. 1 13-inch Mortar and Bed.

he, JUNE,

to pursue.

received this morning an express fi'om Virginia, informing us that Lord Dunmore had sailed from Norfolk up the bay

^Jth his fleet, joined by the Roebuck ; and we apprehend the ships you saw off the Wind-Mill Faint are part of that

We

fleet.

your most obliged, humble

To

are,

&c.

Captain James Nicholson.

Joshua Wentworth.

Stephen Moylan, Esq.

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO DEPUTIES [No.

extract of a letter FROM A GENTLEMAN

IN SALEM.

in company with a fleet of twenty sail of transports, under convoy of two sixty-four and one forty-gun ship, six frigates and two bomb-ketches, from whom he was parted the 5th May in a hard gale. The fleet had on board a large number of Hessians, Brunswickers, and English troops, in order to disperse (as the Captain termed it) that hornet's nest the Congress, after which they expected the continent would be an easy prey to them.

the Captain of which informed him that he sailed

,'

2,

1776.

We

send Mr. Stewart to Philadelphia, to take a view of the gondolas built at that city. ^V e expect to contract with him for building most of those that are orThe difference of tide dered to be built for our Province. in our bay from that in Delaware will, we apprehend, ne-

Gentlemen:

Captain Chapman (formerly o[ Boston) is just arrived here from St. Croix, who informs, that on the lOlli of May, in latitude 34°, 15', longitude 67°, 64', he fell in with a brig,

IN CONGRESS.

Annapolis, June

8.]

cessarily occasion

some

alteration in the

manner of building

We

and rigging our gondolas from those of Pennsylvania. wish tohave your sentiments on this subject, after conferring with Mr. Stetvart. All is quiet at Annapolis ; the Governour's boat is just Smith, and brings a with Secretary returned fiom Virginia ^ "d / ? to the i letter from Commodore Hammond, of the Roebuck, Governour, which we have seen. He is to be sent tor shortThe letter is dated at Gwinris Island, which we take ly. be near Pianketank, between the mouth of the Potomack and Rappahannock. The letter informs, they came there Private intelligence to complete their wood and water. stock of says the island is of some miles extent, and has casting up incattle, sheep, S^c, thereon, and that they are to

CHARLES CARROLL (bARRISTEr) TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Mount

Clare,

June

1776.

2,

Gentlemen I have, as Mr. Tilghman desired in his me of Thursday, made inquiry for small vessels, but can:

to

not find that any are to be got here on freight.

they are to be procured,

it

will

I

fancy

be down the bay.

if

The

trenchments to defend themselves against the Militia. How Our islands will long they will remain there is uncertain. probably be plundered next, and they w^ill move, we con-

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS,

683

We

should up the river Potomack, or our bay. be exceedingly "lad to have our military stores, particularly cannon and small arms, lent the Congress for fitting out the Enclosed we send you copy of the M^asp and Hornet. particulars, and wish you would apply when there is pro-

jecture,

under Spanish colours was lately taken in Dclaivarc bay, with fourteen thousand the boxes that contained them are markdollars on board ed W. M., from whence he thinks they belong to JVilhiig there may be more money on board. fy Morris, and that He confirms the report of stock on the island, and says a Commissary is appointed to see that the people are paid. Mr. Smith also says that Commodore Hammond and Lord Dwmore both assured him that they had certain intelligence Commissioners were coming over; that he inferred from He their discourse they were to treat with the Congress.

Mr. Smith informs

that a vessel

JUNE,

684

1776.

could wish they might receive as' kind treatment as can be Lieutenant McLean has beto prisoners of war. haved very ill, which has occasioned his being sent in irons

shown

Philadelphia

to

;

no treatment can be

bad

to

for

such a

villain. 1

bability of succeeding.

fcc,

am, with the greatest respect, your obedient, humble

n , Israel Putnam.

servant,'

To

His Excellency General Washington.

;

was exthat Hudson's ship pected with the troops from England was with the fleet now at Giviyin's Island ; that she was not yet condemned, a witness being wanting that was on board the Liverpool frigate, whom Dumnorc told Mr. Smith could prove that the Congress had papers on board concealed in a lo"- of wood, which probably would condemn her. We wish to hear from you by every good opportunity him

also says that they told

a very

powerful

fleet

;

;

and

are,

To

gentlemen, your most obedient servants.

the Deputies for

Maryland

Congress.

in

Annapolis, June

9.1

2,

1776.

We

received intelligence this morning by the Governour's Secretary, who is just returned from the Roebuck, off Gioinns Island, that the whole fleet which

Gentlemen:

Norfolk, consisting of about ninety

left

Givimis Island; that they had landed

sail,

their

EZRA L HOMMEDIEU TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS. Southold. June

Dear

was arrived at men, and were

that they found a large supply of intrenching themselves that no ships-of-war fresh provisions on the said island ;

were coming up the bay, only the one for the Governour, which may be expected in five or six days. We are, &c.

To

for

1776.

:

;

;

You

specting our Militia. cers for the Fifth

iiave also a return of four offi-

Company, occasioned by

company being nominated

the

a Major.

the Captain of

The

Field-Offi-

you would send their commissions by firet opportunity, (which likely will be the bearer,) as they want general training before the busy season comes on. to have a I wrote you some time ago respecting the Collector's office if any difficulty should attend appointing that person, no great inconveniency would attend if it was postponed for I conclude the present, as but few vessels go from here. you are now very busy, and are thinking about instituting a new form of Government for the Colony, a measure which most people see the necessity of at present. Should be glad to hear from you, and know how our afTairs are at the We have so many accounts here that we do norlhward. not know upon what to depend. I am your very humble servant, cers desire

Ezra L'Hommedieu.

;

the Committee of Observation

2,

Enclosed you have the nomination of the Field-Officers of this battalion they are promoted according and I hope we shall now be peaceable reto their rank

Sir

;

MARYLAND COtJNCIL OF SAFETY TO COMMITTEE OF OBSERVATION FOR BALTIMORE COUNTY. [No.

P. S. Lieutenant Vanwaggenen, who has in charge the your Excellency the particulars of LieuNo ships arrived since I wrote tenant McLean's conduct. by express yesterday, nor other news of importance. prisoners, will give

Baltimore County.

To

General Nathaniel Woodkull, New-York.

GENERAL THOMPSON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp

at Sorel,

June

2,

1776.

Dear General The news

of the country you will hear The from the honourable Commissioners of Congress. prospect is rather unfavourable on our side at present, but I :

GENERAL PUTNAM TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read June

5.

Referred to the Committee on Prisoners

Head-Quarters, New-York, June

2,

]

1776.

Sir: I have ordered Lieutenant Vanwaggenen to take charge Lieutenant Shock, Lieutenant ISeal McLean, and Doctor Gill, prisoners of war, and them safely convey to Fhiladelphia, and there wait on you for further orders. Lieutenant McLean has behaved exceedingly ill. 1 sent him the enclosed form of a parole to sign, which he repeat-

hope will clear up. On the night of the 31st ultimo, I received an account of General Carleton's having passed the Rapids of Richelieu whilst I was at Chamhly attending a I made no delay in setting out for this council of war.

in

edly refused

;

I at last

sent

him word

to sign

it,

and receive

the treatment due a gentleman, or refuse, and travel in irons he again refused, and I am now put to the disagreeable ne;

him forward handcuffed. He is used to it away while in Canada, he was in the same situation. For particulars, 1 must refer you to Lieutenant Vanwaggenen. I have the honour to be, with esteem, your most obedient humble servant, , o Putnam. Israel

cessity of sending

attempting to run

for

To

the Honourable John Hancock, Esq.

place,

and arrived

time to prevent any bad consequences

in

following the intelligence here.

Having received information

that Colonel

McLean,

with

about eight hundred Regulars and Canadians, had advanced as far up as the Three Rivers, I have sent off Colonel St. Clair, with between six and seven hundred men, to attack his camp, if it can be done with the least probability of This may be a means to prevent the Canadians success. and savages from taking up arms against us, which they begin already to do, and might otherwise in a little time

number of the enemy to a very formidable force. Colonel St. Clair is an officer of great experience, and I make no doubt he will acquit himself well ol his command. I have written to General Arnold at Montreal to send the Pennsylvania troops, in number about three hundred, increase the

and likewise to the Baron to from thence to join me here send from St. Johns the first regiment that arrives there. With those troops I may be able to make the most advantage of Colonel St. Clair's success, if he should prove for;

P. S. The other two Lieutenants, Shock and Doctor Gill, behave as is expected of gentlemen. Head-Quarters, New-York, June

McLean,

2,

1776.

made

a prisoner of war by the Army of the Thirteen United Colonies, in NorthAmerica, do promise and engage, on my word and honour, I,

Lieutenant JScal

being

of a gentleman, to depart from hence with Lieutenant Vanwaggenen to Philadelphia, and there wait the further orders of the honourable Continental Congress.

and on the

faith

Head-Quarters, New-York, June

Dear General: These you

will

receive

2,

1776.

by Dr. Gill

and Lieutenant Shock, who were made prisoners at St. Johns ; they have both behaved exceedingly well, and I

tunate, or support a retreat

Had

I

my reinforcement, I Carleton's

passing

if

driven to that necessity.

country two weeks sooner with think we could have prevented General

arrived in

this

Deschamhault

this

summer.

Three

could have defended Canada at that place better than ten thousand can now we are out of possession 1 now begin to entertain doubts of our ability to keep of it. Our artillery is lost, and the New-England the Province. troops are so much infected with or afraid of the small-pox

thousand

men

Could 1 have the their doing duty. of the Jersey and Pennsylvania Regiments, I still believe, if I did not keep the country, it would require at

as almost to prevent

command

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

685

and five thousand men to oblige me to evacuate it would be easing the Southern Colonies of .so many enemies during the course of the canipaign, and perhaps recover a little of the honour v\ e have lately too lavislily thrown away. Mr. Chase is of opinion we may with safety break the It is extremely capitulation made with General Arnold. hard to give up all the fruits of the last year's campaign in Canada, which cost so much, and, what was still a greater loss to us, the life of General MoH/.o-o;He7'y, without even releasinf our distressed friends in (^ucbcck. But if engagements least

;

that

of this delicate nature are broken without the to support us, we shall be forever undone.

fullest

testimony

have sent off the sick and heavy baggage from hence, that if I am reduced to the necessity of retreating, I can do Including the men that went with Coloit with little loss. nel St. Clair, those employed in rowing his boats, and gone I

to remove the sick, with fifty stationed on the opposite side of the St. Lawrence, the number of troops here are reduced In a few days 1 shall be joined by to about two hundred. Colonel Dc Haas with his detachment. greatest distress at present is on account of the un-

My

happy

of the Canadians

situation

know

who have

taken an active

have it in my power to protect them from the vengeance of General They appreCarleton, with which they are threatened. hend the worst, and are truly objects of compassion. I am, my dear General, your affectionate humble servant, part with us, as

1

not whether

I

shall long

William Thompson.

To

General Washington.

&c.,

JUNE,

1776.

686

Parson Maddiaon

municate with the Minister.

U^^n

lia.s

permittcti to return to Virginia, and, as he will probably

give intelligence, he should be watched.

The young gentleman who will deliver this is of great worthiness, and deserves much of his country for liis fidelity and zeal. Six thousand of the Hessian troops sailed last month, the remainder is not yet arrived here, so that it may be September before they reach you. In the mean time, it may be Howe^s plan to amuse you with a negotiation, which may also furnish an opportunity of feeling some pulses among you, as to the efficacy of money and promises. Beware of Joseph Reed, of Philadelphia. One Brooke fVatson, who was pi;rmitted to travel last year from A'eii'- York to C^uebeck, gave in a plan to the Ministry for attacking Canada, and is with the invaders.

This book

better than the last

is

decipher what

I

sent you.

It is to

and for you to write by. Tiiis where the word is to be found,

write to you,

I

done by putting the ])age and the letter of the alphabet corresponding in order with the word. As there are more words in a page than the letters of the alphabet, the letter must be doubled or trebled to express the troops, you write to answer that; as thus 369, kk 381,vv; ing, ed, s, &c., must be added when necessary, and distinguished by making no comma between them and the figures thus for betrayed, put 33ed. The is





;

letters I use are t

w

u v

x y

z,

know

until I

Hill, in a

abcdefghijklmnopqrs

these,

which are twenty-six.

You can

safe.

it is

woman's hand

children are well

;

if

the

the youngest child

this,

if

;

first is

I

cannot use

write to Mrs. Lee, on

this

Tower

you have both books, say the only, the eldest child

well.

They

is

well

;

if

will let this pass.

ABTHUR LEE TO THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE.*

TO the inhabitants of VIRGINIA. June

Gentlemen The may be depended on

desire of the

:

3,

Court of France

1776.

to assist

but they are yet timid, and the MiTurgot, lately removed, was the most nistry unsettled. averse to a rupture with England ; his removal is of conThe contention for the lead now is between sequence. Count de Vergennes and the Duke de Choiseul ; both are ;

you and for vigorous measures. The disposition Spain is in France may, for these reasons, be relied on. more reserved her Minister here is an old woman but The surely, when France moves Spain will co-operate. friends to

;

;

clear revenue from the farm of tobacco lions of livres to

she

is

furnish

France.

likely to tell it

It

has been hinted to

Great Britain that

she will send for

it

twenty-four mil-

is

herself.

what an important instrument

if

me

You may judge, that

is

there-

in

with the duty, to which they agreed. He then applied to this Government for leave to import it upon paying the The Scots are the contrivers duties, which was refused.

and supporters of all the measures against you nor will they ever desist while the English have a penny to be plundered of, or a man to be sacrificed. Whatever propositions are made you must consider as coming from the Scots, whose perfidy you know can never be trusted. Do not let the chaThey have corrupted racter of Lord Hoive deceive you. Howe their English adherents almost to their own degree. has a weak and confused head. Two hundred thousand ;

in specie have been sent to Canada, so that the booty there, if you succeed, must be great. In the last debate. Lord George Germaine, who is undoubtedly Minister, affirmed that no treaty would be held

pounds

till you had laid down your arms. My opinion is, independency is essential to your dignity, essential to your present safety, and essential to your future prosperity and peace. Some of the Congress correspond with Mr. Jackson, of the Board of Trade, and with Mr. Molleson, a Scotch merchant the intelligence they give goes direcdy to the Minister. To prevent this, all correspondence ought to be prevented with the Scots, who are to a man treacherous and hostile and with the refugee Americans, who also com-

with you

that

;

;

Copy of .4. Lee's

letter to the Committee of Secret Correspondence, June 3, and taken from the original in the cover of a ilictionarj', which was delivered to the Secretary of Congress, by Mr. Robert J\[orris, on the 4th of September, 1778, and delivered to the Committee of

date

Attest:

James Loveli,

to

so deeply incensed ;

;

;

aggravated by strong suspicions and gross misrepresentations,

grow

at length into the

instance of which

The

sally

now

most inveterate hatred

;

a striking

presents itself in this distracted coun-

poor inhabitants near our sea-coast are univerinsulted, and abused, for no other reason

condemned,

than because they were so unhappy as to fall into the hands of a Governour who is deservedly held in the utmost abhorIt was expected by many of their countrymen that rence. but not by they would have made a vigorous resistance ;

those

who were

well acquainted with their situation.

There

were a thousand obstacles to prevent it. At least half the town of Norfolk were disaffected to the American cause, and armed vessels lay at their doors to terrify the other half Those who lived in the country were into obedience. totally ignorant of military affairs, and war was a thing

new to them. Some spirited men among them, could not brook the pride and insolence of the Scotch party, did prevail upon a few of the inhabitants to take up arms and stand on their own defence but the event fully proved that discipline and experience are highly essential to They wanted these qualifications, nor form the soldier. altogether

who

;

was there a

single officer to

command who had

ever been

they waited till the arrival of our troops from JVilliamsburgh, they had never incurred the censure of their brethren, nor been looked upon as foes to ])ublick libThis is the effect of that erty and the rights of mankind. in action.

Had

which they mistook, and which is too freI aiii bold quently mistaken for true valour and heroism. people is thoin my assertion, because the situation of the them, I lived I was born among roughly known to me.

military parade,

among them, and have been ring the

a witness to their conduct du-

whole of the present contest

:

and

I

doaver,

tliat

(except some of the inhabitants of the town oi' Norfolk) as many friends to America reside near the coast as in any other Some enemies may undoubtedly be part' of the Colony. found but are all, without di3tincti6n. to be condemned and ;

Are your friends to one common punishment with your most bitter foes? Heavens, my countrymen, it is ungenerous and inhu-

treated with disdain on that account? suffer

Foreign Affairs, 7th December following.

much

is

try.

is,

*

nity

that

England cannot

your hands. A Scotch banker. Sir Robert Herries, proposed to the farmers in France to supply them at the home price here, that fore,

be lamented when one part of a commuagainst another, and can with because the most ancient ties of pleasure behold its ruin friendship are then dissolved, and the greatest intimates at However, there are that time become implacable enemies. many circumstances that justify such resentment many that but it too often happens absolutely necessary render them that they take their rise from the slightest causes, and. being It is

By

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

687

they are not only condemned and rents exacted liom them, when forced to remove from their estates, and obliged to sacrifice

man

But

!

this is

not

all

:

despised, but exorbitant

How much good of the comniiniity. adds to the weight of their sufferings you may easily conceive; but unless you have been in the like distress, it is Few impossible for you to have a perfect idea of theirs. possess the means of purchasing the necessaries, much less The rest, my countrymen, must the conveniences of life. rely entirely on your generosity and could you be satisfied with regard to their political conduct, I am persuaded they their livings for the

this

;

would experience the good effects of your benignity. But you can be convinced, it behoves you to divest yourselves of those strong prejudices which you have imbibed, and to listen with the same attention to the voice of truth as you have done to that of calumny. Suffolk, Virginia,

June

3,

1776.

Gentlemen

:

3,

To

to the Light Infantry of regular Troops, under the command Captain iitiicker, and not thinking myself contented in of that department, have enclosed you my commission, with my resignation. From, gentlemen, your most obedient, hum-

Second Lieutenant

raised for the defence of this Province,

To

t

r>

JajMes Kinggold.

the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland.

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO SUNDRY OFFICERS. [No.

Annapolis, June

10.]

Sir

The

:

Hammond

to

enclosed extract from a letter of

Governour Eden,

(in

3,

1776.

Commodore

consequence of an

in-

tercourse between His Excellency and the Convention,) will

may

be daily expected up the the Militia need not be alarmed, or unnecessarily drawn out* upon duty on sight of these vessels. make not the least doubt but that you will give the orders necessary for preventing any insult being offered either on her passage up or down the bay. inform you that a man-of-war bay.

We

give

you

this notice that

We

We

have the strongest assurances that the Governour Province with the most friendly regard for its inhabitants, and will do everything in his power that may contribute towards promoting a reconciliation between the mother country and her Colonies. We are, &,c. will leave the

(To Brigadiers Chambertaine and Hooper, Colonels Wright, Mackall, and Barnes, and Captains Beall and Thomas,

Captain Rezin Beall.

When we get our rifles, which we expect daily, change, and give you rifles for some of the worst of your muskets. P. S.

we

will

JOHN HANCOCK TO MASSACHUSETTS COimCIL. Philadelphia, June 3, 1776.

Jf'eems,

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO WILLIAM HINDMAN. 3,

1776.

We

send you, enclosed, an order on yourself to the Paymaster of the Eastern- Shore for two thousand pounds. But before he draws the money, you will be pleased to see that a bond is executed (if not already done) with condition as herein mentioned, in the penalty of five thousand pounds, currency, payable to the Honourable Matthew Tilghman and James Lloyd Chamherlaine, Esquires, which you will hereafter transmit to us.

To

We

are. Sic.

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN BEALL. Annapolis, June

3,

1776.

Sir: We received yours of the 29th, and are sorry to hear you are not properly accommodated with houses at Drum Point. We expected there were good houses there

Under

we have come cannot be got, barracks should be erected, under the inspection of the Committee, sufficient, together with the houses at the point, to hold the one-half of your company, and request you would apply to them for that purpose. The arms were sent you by Captain Thomas we believe they are not so good as they ought to be, especially the locks. We wish we could supply you with better immediately, but have not any just now we expect we shall have enough soon. We have ordered some guns from John Yost, at Georgetotm, which Colonel Beall will send

sufficient.

the present circumstances,

to a resolution, that if houses

;

May, with

it

will

appear how the

latter

is

to

be

dis-

and think it will be necessary to place it to the account of the United Colonies. The sums mentioned in your letter are delivered to Colonel Porter ; and any other sums of money that may be delivered in consequence of the resolve aforesaid, since the Colony is charged with the sums advanced it by Congress. We find, in an account sent by the General Court to General Washington, and by him transmitted to Congress, a charge of three thousand pounds of powder delivered by Governour Trumbull on account of the Colony, more than is contained in the account you enclosed us. And as the General is now here, and informs us that he shall write General Ward directions to deliver to the Colony the whole of the powder which is due from the continent, we enclose the lastmentioned account and vouchers, to be adjusted accordingly. We shall send forward the money mentioned above, and twenty-one thousand dollars, granted by Congress for raising the two battalions lately ordered to be raised in Massachusetts-Bay ; and are, sir, with great respect for yourself and the honourable Assembly, your most humble servants. At the desire and in behalf of the Delegation of Massaposed

of,

chusetts.

To

the

T

John TT Hancock.

Hon. the President of the Council of Massachusetts-

Bay. PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia,

June

3,

1776.

extremely sorry it is not in my power to wait in person to execute the commands of Congress; but being deprived of that pleasure by a severe fit of the gout, I am under the necessity of taking this method to acquaint you that the Congress have directed me to make the thanks of that body to you, for the unremitted attention you have paid to your important trust and, in particular, for the assistance they have derived from your military knowledge and experience, in adopting the best plans for the defence I

am

;

of the United Colonies. I will do myself the honour of sendsuch resolves of Congress as any ways relate to the operations of the ensuing campaign. Having, therefore, fully accomplished the views of Congress in requesting your attendance in this city, I am commanded to inform you that they submit to your choice the

To-morrow morning

ing you

William Hindman, Esq.

[No. 12.]

0th o(

;

by which

solve,

Sir on you

Annapolis, June

1

and having communicated such a part thereof as was necessary to Congress, beg leave through you, to the enclosures

:

Sir:

received your favour of the

respec-

tively.)

[No. 11.]

We

Sir:

We

I77G.

Having had the honour of being appointed

ble servant,

688

inform the honourable Assembly that the sum of thirty thousand dollars is ordered to be sent them, for the purpose of exchanging it for specie. enclose a copy of the re-

JAMES KINCCOLD TO MARVLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Annapolis, June

1776.

you down in a few days. The money for your subsistence we would have sent, but Mr. Risteau never came near us. Colonel Smallivood delivered us your letter. The regular method is, to transmit us your account by some safe hand and we will order you the cash and other necessaries you may want. We are, &c.

before

Philanthropos.

JUNE,

&c.,

all

time of returning to Head-Quartei-s, well knowing you will repair thither whenever the exigency of aflairs shall render

your presence there necessary. With the most ardent wishes that you may be crowned with success equal to your merit and the righteousness of our cause, I have the honour to be, with the highest esteem and regard, sir, your most obedient, very humble servant,

John Hancock,

To

President.

His Excellency General Washington, Philadelphia.

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Philadelphia, June 3, 1776.

Sir: I have procured the petition preferred by the Independent Corps of Boston, and beg leave through you to

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS.

689

k.c.,

JUNE,

1776.

690

inform Congress that the five Regiments there are entirely deficient in arms, and many other Regiments in Continen-

authority of Committees of all kinds, (bodies, it is confessed, constituted by necessity alone,) now professing a desire for

whether any under tiiesc circumstances, should be delivered to the gentlemen applying for them determining, at the same time, whatever decision they come to will be agreeable to me, and will be literally complied with by, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,

the continuance of them, tliougli evidently militating against the authority of the Crown, and the execution of some of the criminal laws, as well as tending to the discontinuance of trial by jury and the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus, those bulwarks of liberty. TliLs conduct they can

pay, and submit

tal

part of the

arms

it

to their consideration

lately taken,

;

only ascribe to an inclination in these men lo prefer confusion to ordt.T, tyranny to liberty, and anurcliy to legal government, and thereby, in time, to make the people so discontented and unhappy as to desire peace at the expense of everything valuable in this life, as was eflected by simi-

George Washington.

To

the President of Congress.

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL PUTNAM.

lar Philadelphia, June 3, 1776.

Dear

I

received your favour of yesterday evening's

its

several letters and intelligence from General

Sir:

express, with

means

Upon

at the Restoration.

the whole, the

Committee think

it

their

duty

to

themselves, their constituents, and to the Congress, to request your Worships to postpone the business of the above-

am much concerned for the further misfortunes have attended our arms in Canada. I have laid the whole before Congress, who had before resolved to send a conI doubt not that siderable augmentation to our Army there. General Schuyler may receive assistance from the Militia most convenient to him for securing the different passes and communications till they can be reinforced. As to sending a reinforcement from New-York, neither policy nor prudence will justify it, as we have the strongest reasons to believe the day not far distant when a large armament will arrive and vigorously attempt an impression there to oppose which, the forces we have will not be more than equal, if sufficient. Congress have determined on building sundry gondolas and fire-rafts, to prevent the men-of-war and enemy's ships from coming into the New-York Bay or Narrows. I must therefore request that you make inquiry after carpenters, and procure all you can, with materials necessary for building them, that they may go on with all possible expedition as soon as the person arrives from hence whom 1 have employed to superintend the work he will be there in a day or two. Schuyler, and

mentioned Courts until a new Government shall be formed, which they apprehend will be effected so speedily that the

tliat

delay will be of small if any injury to the present suitors and in the mean time the minds of men will be quieted from the apprehension of a disaffected Grand Jury or Court at-

tempting lo censure or condemn the virtuous measures now pursuing for the happiness and safety of the good people of this Province in particular, and America in general. Signed by order of the Committee

Thomas McKean, Chairman. June

;

3, 1776.

In Committee of Privates, Philadelphia, June

3,

1776.

Moved, That an address of thanks be presented to the Officers and Men belonging to the Galleys, for their spirited behaviour in the late engagement with the Roebuck and Liverpool men-of-war, and that the same be published in the several publick papers of this city.

Extract from the Minutes:

;

I ain,

dear

sir,

James Cannon, Clerk.

&;c.,

George Washington.

To

Major-Gen era] Putnam.

To

the

Worshipful Justices of His Majesty

George

N. B. The vote was delayed for some weeks, to give the House of Assembly an opportunity of doing it first.

the

TO THE honourable CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.

Third, of his Courts of (Quarter Sessions and Common Pleas for the County q/" Philadelphia: The Memorial of the Committee of Inspection and Observation for the City

and Liberties oy Philadelphia, ^c,

respectfully showeth

That 15th of

Memorial of the Committee of Privates of the Military Association belonging to the City and Liberties of Philadelphia respectfully showeth :

77(6

That your

:

the honourable the Congress,

May last, have

declared "

by a

That

it

appears absolutely

and good conscience

for the people of the Colonies now to take the oaths or affirmations necessary for the support of any Government under the Crown of Great Britain : and that it is necessary that the exercise of

irreconcilable to reason

any kind of authority under the said Crown should be totally suppressed," &ic. That this Committee conceive it to be their duty, as

it is

their inclination, to exert

utmost endea-

their

vours for carrying into execution the said resolve, as well as others of that honourable

body

;

and therefore they thus

apply to your Worships to surcease the exercise of any authoiity in the present Courts until a new Government is framed, and all the powei's thereof exerted under the authority of the people of this Province. The Committee need not remind your Worships of the qualifications of Grand Jurors, and how incompatible they are with the present opposition to the King of Great Britain, and the execution of the resolves as well of the Congress as of the House of Assembly of this Province, when they reflect that the disposition of many of your Worships is friendly to the cause of liberty and your country, and that a continuance in the seats you have so worthily filled is no longer conducive to the safety and happiness of the people. It is with great concern that the Committee have beheld some persons in office in this Province so influenced by their salaries as to prefer their own immediate power and interest to that of their country and their posterity and they are sorry to find themselves constrained to exert their most strenuous efforts for obtaining those desirable ends personal security and the preservation of private property which they apprehend every honest man would be anxious to see ;

——

on a firm and permanent basis. It is with equal concern that they have seen another set of men in this Province, heretofore notoriously opposing the elections and fixed

Fourth Series.

—Vol.

fi.

Memcrialists, confiding that this House would no application which the most pressing necessity urged on the one hand, and the most reprehensible negligence produced on die other, applied some time since for a ContiThe nental General, and a few Continental Battalions. reject

resolution of the

defenceless state of this Province, the prospect of an attack being made on this city, and the great discouragements which our military associators have met with, and the injustice done to their patriotick exertions by men who, if they wished well to our cause, would have treated us in a very different manner, these, with many other circumstances, pointed out the necessity of having a General of courage and experience This with a few Continental Battalions, stationed here. we requested, and had reason to expect to have our prayer attended to, as it is impossible for us, in the present uncon-



nected state of our Battalions, ever to exert their force to the greatest advantage, and as we, in consequence thereof,

run the greatest hazard of a division in the hour of action. understand that some of our Delegates give great opposition to the measure, alleging that, were such a thing necessary, the application ought to come from our Committee of wish not to fall a sacrifice to the ignorance or Safety.

We

We

inattention of a

Committee,

in a

number of whose members

we have

not the least confidence, especially since their influence, in all probability, prevented the burning of the Roebuck; and we earnestly entreat that men who endeavoured to withdraw us from the Continental Union, may not have too great weight in the councils w hich regard our safety. thought our application so reasonable that there was

We

scarcely a necessity of hinting the matter, and therefore declined troubling the Congress with unnecessary solicitations. And now that opposition is made, the opinion of his Ex-

cellency General Washington, and the other General officers at present in this city, may save us the labour of furdo, therefore, pray Congress to take ther applications.

We

their sentiments

44

on our present defensive preparations

;

and

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS,

691 if,

on a survey of our

river

and

city,

it

appeai-s to tliem that

enemy, and that a number of half-disciplined Hattalions, which have open an never seen an action, hastily called together, on

we are

sufficiently secured against all attempts of the

and naked beach, without regular order, subordination, or head to direct them, and under the sense of being oppressed by the very men whose lives, liberties and estates they are called out to defend, are sufficient to the exigency of our shall af!iiirs, wc shall reluctantly submit, until that fatal day appear that the present opposition to our retpiest proceeds more from a desire to keep the way open for our enemies, than from any attachment to the cause We rest the success both of our present and of liberty. former applications on their justness and necessity, begging leave to retire, after returning our warmest thanks to this arrive in

which

it

MAJOR PRESTON (pRISONEr) TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Reading, June

3,

1776.

have taken in enclosing a letter to you for Captain Crawford, Paymaster to the Twenty-Sixth Regiment. As the Congress has granted permission for an officer to visit the quarters of the men. I hope they, or the Committee of Safety, will have no objection to Captain Crawford'' s being the person, as it is his business to furnish both officers and men with money, and to keep 1 should be happy if Captain Crawford all the accounts. is

:

1

hope you

permitted to

will forgive the liberty I

make

accommodated here

;

not, that the

if

Congress would grant me permission to go to Philadelphia for a day or two, to settle the accounts as Paymaster, that they may be made up for the agent. 1 have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient, humble '^''""^^'

the

Charles Preston.

[Read June

5,

Jonathan Elmer,

Thomas Ewing,

Attested:

President.

Secretary.

WILLIAM PALFREY TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read June

4, 1776.

Referred to Mr. J. Adams, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Mr. R. H. I.ee, and Mr. Sherman.]

Jclfcrson,

New-York, June

1776.

3,

send you herewith a state of my accounts, to the 31st of May, which completes one month. You would oblige me greatly by acquainting me whether the honourable Congress have come to any determination on the subject of my application respecting the payment of the troops at Boston, as I am still at a loss how to proceed. Mr. Duan^,

Sir

who

I

:

me

arrived here yesterday, acquaints

that

Boston

is

to

be considered as within my department, and that I am to em])loy a clerk or deputy there. He also informs me that my accounts are to be audited at Philadelphia. I shall be extremely glad to receive regular information from you, that I may proceed accordingly. My accounts are all ready, but I cannot leave my department until Mr. JVinthrop arrives, or I can procure another clerk. I have the honour to be, with the utmost respect, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,

William Palfrey.

To

John Hancock, Esq., President of Congress.

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL PUTNAM. Fort George, June

1776.

3,

Dear General: Your favour of the 1st instant was livered me yesterday afternoon. The powder arrived

de-

on Wednesday, and was immediately sent on part of the inand embarked. trenching tools and cannon are also arrived Pray let the pork be constantly forwarded to Albany, for although upwards of two thousand barrels are already sent ;

which every corps was victualled here, yet as our Army are not the best economists, it will soon be expended. The Commissary-General should not be apprehensive of The difficulty of laying in too great a stock at Albany.

1776.]

Greenwich, Cumberland County, N.

Gentlemen

692

diately wait on the honourable the Continental Congress, and request their advice and directions on the matter. A true extract from the Minutes:

since the 13th ultimo, exclusive of twelve days at least with

Hon. John Hancock, Esq.

JONATHAN ELMER TO THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.

.

1776.

place of his residence, as his

this the

family can be very well

To

JUNE,

will

honourable House for promoting our favourite fellow-citizen General Mifflin, on whom we earnestly wish to see the chief command in this Province speedily devolve. Si^'ned on behalf of the Committee of Privates Samuel Simpson, President.

Sir

&c.,

J.,

June

3,

1776.

Major Thomas Ewing, the bearer hereof, one of the Committee of Cumberland County, in New- Jersey, will inform your Honours of the particulars respecting the sloop Betsey 8f Ann, Benjamin Tucker master, from Bermuda, laden with salt, Sic. The owner, Mr. Lightburn, informs us that his intention is to sell his salt, and take in a cargo of corn and we not being clear that it is our duty either to let him sell or buy, he being professedly a subject to the King of Great Britain, thought it necessary to have

sending fat cattle into Canada is very considerable.' Would it not be prudent to expend as little pork at ^eiv-York as

:

possible

?

have employed persons at Albany to purchase whatever necessaries for our naked Army in Canada they can procure but after all, what they may get will be very trifling. I wish, therefore, to have all kinds of clothing sent I

;

up the soonest

possible.

;

the instructions of the honourable Congress on this matter.

We

hope your Honours will favour us with your advice in by Mr. Ewing, so that we may know how to act, both on this and in like cases for the future. By order of the Committee writing,

Jonathan Elmer,

To

President.

the Honourable the Continental Congress, at Philadel-

phia. In Committee at Greenwich,

in

Cumberland County,

Personally appeared before the Committee Mr. Joseph Lightburn, owner of the sloop Betsey &f Ann, Benjamin Tucker master, from Bermuda ; and on examination, says,

now

lying at Greenwich,

was laden

at,

and

cleared from, Turk^s Island, with seventeen hundred bushels of salt and two puncheons of rum, (as appears per cocket ;)

tliat

their design

is

to

exchange the cargo

for corn, &tc.

By

examining the papers of the master, they nearly correspond with what Mr. Lightburn relates. He further says, on examination, that the people o( Bermuda are in the greatest distress for want of provisions that many hundreds must inevitably die by hunger if not speedily relieved that he had heard nothing of any prohibition of trade between the United Colonies and Bermuda when he left that place. ;

;

On

motion,

it

was Ordered, That the Secretary imme-

is

uni-

Canada. If common fame says true, they have certainly behaved in the basest and most cowardGeneral Arnold'is again marched to the Cedars ly manner. and I trust he will give a good account of the enemy. I am under a necessity of hastening to Albany, to take measures for securing the western frontiers of this Colony, which are threatened by the Indians, and believe I shall be versally

condemned

in

obliged to order Colonel

where Fort Staimiv was ing tools, which you will before

in

New-Jersey, June 3, 1776:

that his sloop,

Colonel Bedel's and Major Butterfield's conduct

order Colonel

I

Dayton ;

if so, I

to take shall

post at the place

want more intrench-

therefore please to send up.

Dayton

to take post there,

I

But

wish,

if

time will permit, to hear iiom General IVashington on the subject, and have therefore enclosed my letter to Congress, that if the General should be at New- York, he will please to consider

it

as directed to himself

and give

me

his or-

dere. I

hope soon

if it is

to see

an Engineer to repair Ticonderoga, but, in my opinion, a ;

resolved to keep that place

post on the ground opposite to it would more effectually secure us against the enemy, should they oblige our Army to retreat as far as diat, which, however, I trust will not be

the case.

We shall want an Engineer to and I

send witli Colonel Dayton, one can be spared, pray order him up. am. dear General, very sincerely, your most obedient,

if

humble

servant,

.,„ Schuyler. Philip c

r>

'

To General Putnam,

or

Commanding

Officer at

New- York.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

693

GENERAL SULLIVAN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Charnlily,

June

3,

1770.

My dear General: I had written a letter to Congress, and expected to have tlie honour of writing one to you before the Commissioners departed, but as I found them going oft' before I could possibly finisli one to you, I sealed that, and begged Mr. Clutse to desire your Excellency to open and read it, which contained the purport of what I I have since that been intended to write your Excellency. to Montreal, and find almost every person agreed to depart General Thompson writes without even seeing the enemy. that about eight hundred of the enemy have anived at Three Rivers, forty-five miles below Sorcl, where he is. This he has by report only. I find that all the heavy baggage is sent away with the intrenching tools, &.C.; on that account I have ordered them back, and am this moment embarking for Sorel, where I hope to arrive by daybreak, and meet them with all the force I can make. I am far from fearing eight hundred men against such a force as I can muster. I have desired all the General officers to be Want of with me there, who seem well satisfied to go on. time prevents my writing more fully on the state of affairs here at present, which I shall not forget to do as soon as possible. In the interim, I am, dear General, with great respect, your most obedient servant, John Sullivan. His Excellency General Washington.

nature, a

My

Friends and Brethren

T have long been designand throw out some thoughts have hitherto been prevented, from a deep conviction of my inability to do them justice. But the demands of my injured country are so pressing, and so indisputably call for the united exertions of every individual, in all ways within his reach, for its salva:

ing to take m)' pen in hand,

variety of useful subjects, but

tion, that I

am

necessitated to write.

The

patriotick fire

my

bosom, and collects new force every day. Nor shall I fear, if it rages as I go on, of incurring the just resentment of the man or woman whose approbation I would ever court. My design is, to rouse the attention of this continent to the various parts of their political duty to repreburns within

;

sent things in their native dress

to trace every impolitick measure, through all its necessary or usual attendants and consequences; and to hold up to universal view those arguments which, gloomy as the prospect is, may inspire our hearts with invincible fortitude, carry us through the deepest distresses with

names

reputation

to future ages

with

and all

;

and transmit our possible marks of respect. dignity,

It will be natural to suppose, after saying thus much, that a regular plan should be invariably pursued ; but it will be no transgression to attend to the circumstances of our pub-

As

they vary, so shall

Observations and remarks drawn from present occurrences produce a more lasting effect than any other. This, daily experience confirms ; and it might indeed be argued from the frame of the human mind. lick affairs.

The

first

I.

thing to which I shall pay particular attention

is the almost unaccountable mistake of the people with respect to a late resolve of the General Congress. It might

be expected that all which proceeds from that body would be expressed with the utmost plainness, perspicuity, and energy. Sensible what attempts would be made to misconstrue and quarrel with their proceedings, it is evident they have taken no small pains to avoid all ambiguous expressions. Attentive, however, as they have been, the event

some instances, turned according to It must be allowed that every reason concurred to make them clear, explicit and particular. has unfortunately,

in

their expectations.

The resolve to which I refer bears date April 30, 1776. The Committee of Inspection and Observation for the City and Liberties of Philadelphia made application for advice, "

Whether they ought

to

Congress

continue the exercise of the power of regulating the price of goods in other instances than that of Green tea ;" upon which it was resolved " that the ninth article of the Association, which enjoined to

inhabitants of the United Colonies to sell goods and merchandises at the rates they had respectively been accustomed to do for twelve months then last past, was, in its

the

1776.

694

temporary regulation respecting goods then on

;

;



liberty to use the tea in

the country, to prevent unreason-

able advantages being taken from

its

scarcity,

it

Ls

resolved,

" that Bohea tea ought not to be sold in the smallest quantities at a higher price in any Colony than at the rate of three-fourths of a dollar per pound, and other teas at such prices as shall be regulated by the Committees of the Town or County where the tea is sold and that all persons who shall give or take a greater price for it ought to be considered as enemies to the American cause, and treated therefore,

;

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 proo( India tea from any part of the world being the desire of Congress to exclude all teas except

hibit the importation

;

it

may make

the ships of

upon a

JUNE,

hand but as those are nearly consumed, and a further supply must be obtained at an extraordinary risk and exjxinsc, and it is reasonable that adventurers should he. encouraced by a prospect of gain adequate to the danger which may be incuncd in the importation and a free trade being now opened from the United Colonies to all parts of the worid, except the dominions belonging to the King of Great Britain, Resolved, that the power of Committees of Inspection and Observation to regulate the prices of goods (in other instances than the article of Green tea) ought to cease." This resolve, people judge wholly supersedes and destroys one passed ^pn7 13, which is thus: After having given full

such as

AN ADDRESS TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE UNITED COLONIES. No. 1.

&:c.,

war

part of the cargoes of prizes takep by or privateers belonging to these Colonies."

Here, my readers, you have the two resolves before you, under your eye at once. And I cannot forbear observing that some people, under certain circumstances, are possessed of a peculiar talent in discovering contradictions and absurd-

What

ities.

conceive. inattention less

could give

rise

to this

one

it

very hard to

is

we attribute it to criminal and unbecoming Can an American be inattentive and regard-

Shall ?

of resolves passed by the most venerable body upon and to which he continually looks for guidance and

earth,

How is it possible ? Shall he ascribe it to a ? downright contempt of Congress ? This is more criminal still, and merits more accumulated vengeance. Or can we suppose that avarice governs every soul, and gives law to the whole of our conduct ? Forbid it. Heaven that so vile, so destructive, so wicked a principle, should assume an uncontrollable sway over this continent. But to what is it owing ? It has a foundation somewhere. The mistake, misdirection

!





constmction, perversion call it what you will originated from some quarter. However, I am not so desirous to deI am to show that it has in fact nothing to from anything which Congress has published. I shall attempt a very critical inquiry and examination for the

termine this as

support

it

;

we examine it the plainer it will appear, and the more thorough the conviction it must carry to every mind. In the first place The regulation of Bohea tea was never put by Congress into the hands of any Committee whatever. A former resolve has prohibited the use of it except in extraordinary and singular cases. It was judged too important a matter for any body, save the supreme, to closer

:

and meddle further in it, than to grant under Continental restrictions, and determine the nature and circumstances of any application which was made. Thus far reached the power of Committees, and no farther. Now, how improbable it is that the Committee of Philadelphia should seek advice about an article which they knew, and every man knows, was wholly out of their province to regulate ? Such authority was never vested in them. They could not, therefore, mean, by asking '' Whether they ought to continue the exercise of this }X)wer of regulating the price of goods in other instances than that of Green tea," to inquire whether what they had never been advised about and pressed to do, should now be exempted from the list of articles which they had before taken care of. Notwithstanding repeated application was made to Congress by private gentlemen to remove the restraints from this article, yet, till April 13, nothing transpired about it. Had Congress ordered Committees to fix the price and sell at pleasure, this resolve would have been absolutely unnecesTo say the least of it, it would have sary and ridiculous. been a repetition of what was already long ago determined and settled. interpose, direct,

licenses

Further, secondly

:

There

is

a particular reference had

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

G95

" which in the resolve to the nintli article of the Association, enjoins the inhabitants of the United Colonies to sell goods and merchandises at the rates they have respectively been

accustomed

do

to

lea does not

twelve months then

for

come

last

within this restriction

third article of the said Association, in

is

That past." clear from the

which the purchasing



ninth,

think

I

it

preface it with an enumeration of the reasons, But as this of the 13th of April is and the old act itself. not named, it fairly implies that stands in full force, and the

set aside, to

obligation, consequently, to observe

it,

as strong as ever

it

Perhaps futurity may know no alteration. was. The reasons upon which the resolve Further, thirdly of-^^n7 30 is built cannot possibly extend to the Bohea :

into America before it was passed. them " As the goods in the country 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 tea

which was imported

Be

pleased to attend

to

:

the United Colonies to

all

parts of the world, except the

Great Britain." These are the reasons, substantial ones, too, and worthy the conceptions which have been formed of Congress. But they do not operate with respect to teas they do not with respect to a single they reach into future time, article imported from time back and bear a very favourable aspect upon our trade, which may I wonder how any mortal could hereafter be carried on. dominions belonging

to

;

;

suppose that

tliese

upon

that acted

13, to repeal

reasons should influence a single

member

passing the resolve of -(4jp«7

principle, in

it.

Further: Every motive and argument which engaged and determined the Congress to fix the price of Bohea tea must still engage and determine them to continue the resolve. They are suggested. Aware of the corruption of human

and Christianity to stem and control the necessary operation of narrow, selfish, and avaricious principles, they resolved to throw a little more weight into the scale of virtue and patriotism and, if possible, make it preponderate every other consideration. Mankind are as depraved as before. America has as many base souls as ever oh that they were not continually increasing. Conceive of anything which could be an inducement, and it remains with its unabated, undiminished force. What could induce Congress to supersede the Further resolve of ^pn7 13? Did they find upon trial that the measure was impolitick, unnecessary, unjustifiable, or fatal Did they receive any application from in its consequences ? any number of gentlemen from any publick body for a

nature, and of the insufficiency of reason

;

:

!

:

Did their own conscience smite them for the in? which they had done the merchants, a respectable class of people ? Did diey find they had brought upon themselves the mighty resentment of their constituents ? Did they dread the curses of posterity for it ? Could they name any inconvenience which attended it ? Did they imagine, if the people suitably exerted themselves, it was imrepeal

jury

practicable in the execution

pretended. surprising

?

None

of these things are an imperceptible and

Pray what did operate in manner upon the authors of that resolve? Could its effects? These questions carry their

not they foresee

own



impregnable, if we is erecting down by secret fraud or publick contendon. now ask, " Why so much busde about Bohea

wisdom of the continent

may



696

must now expect to be attacked upon every side. Let remember, truth bids defiance and shines While the press is brighter, many times, by opposition. open, while life is preserved, and domestick business does not too much interrupt, I intend to expose every attempt to destroy the impregnable barrier against lawless power, which

cannot militate against the resolve of April There is no suggestion, no 13, nor affect it in any manner. unhint nor intimation which could lead an attentive and prejudiced mind to conclude that Congress intended to reWhy peal or supersede its own regulation of the price of it. were not both resolves referred to and mentioned as well as both cases, one ? The same reasons necessarily operate in Doubtless a very good the same propriety and need of it. custom, when a former act of an Assembly or Congress is

is

1776.

opposers

the

it

JUNE,

I

my

Now, as there is no expressly prohibited. one in no contradiction between the third and ninth articles and as the resolve of sense designed to set aside the other April 30 refei-s immediately, particularly, and entirely to the or using of

k.c.,

do not throw

You tea,

will

when

it

the future im])ortation of

it is

prohibited?

Why

any price?" Rather ask, my reader, why may not the traders tread upon forbidden ground, violate every resolve of Congress, and Let the question stand foremost in the list of oppressors? wear this dress, and propose it to the discussion of the universe. Let me inquire. Has not Congress fixed the price of Bohea tea ? Did it not fall within their province to do it? to enforce them Is it not proper to execute their resolves by every justifiable method in our power? Are we not bound to adhere strictly to their measures, and strengthen not the traders, undisturbed,

sell

at

it

;

their authority

?

Can we

treat their proceedings with light-

and not be guilty ? There is not one will lay his What does it negative publickly upon these questions. avail to assert, and in the next breath contradict them ? You will say, " This tea is no great matter we would in genWell, but why not eral remember and reverence Congress." now ? What exempts you from your obligation at this time and in this particular instance ? The authority, the justice, Why propriety and need of the regulation are indisputable. Why will you indulge yourselves to break over this bound ? Why introduce a precedent, will you make any inroads? Why ruin ? which, if followed throughout, will prove your will you open a door which can never, upon your principles, Will you get by this viowith any consistency, be shut ? lation the plaudits of your own breasts, the thanks of the traders, the increase of your interest, or the approbation of Possibly you will enrich the coffers of the traCongress ? ders at the expense of your character, your patriotism and it is and methinks that is enough estate, and that is all more than enough for me. I solemnly protest, with the assistance of my Heavenly Father, without whom I would never form a resolution and promise, I will never drink one drop of that tea which I know costs more than the Congress And here 1 am allows of by one of their late resolves. struck with wonder at the strange behaviour of our honest farmers. For the most part, a man runs as great a risk in touching their purse, as he would in stretching forth a hand The genius of the Colony, indeed, has to take their life. bordered a vast deal too much for its reputation and advanBut the husbandmen among us tage upon covetousness. ness,

;



;

could not bear, unless necessity called loudly, to devote a farthing of their estate to any useful and important purpose. The expenses of the Continental war lie as an insupportable burden upon multitudes ; and blessed, as some of them are, with a fertile imagination, they can, at one view, see their families stripped of every comfort, and their purses empty as their heads, even if immortal victory should declare The prospect of the taxes almost for the brave Americans.





overwhelms the tender minds forgive me the narrow dis1 would recommend it to those of position of thousands.

my

readers who find themselves subject to fainting under such overpowering views, to lay up a store of the spirit of hartshorn, some lavender, nitre, and a variety of braving, It is not prudent invigorating, and enlivening medicines.

Our thoughts

ever to journey or labour without them.

are

No

one can tell what may happen. Always be upon your guard. Let not a To be serious, what a prospect strike you unprovided. The farmer, and thouwonderful change in human affairs bestow one penny willingly sands of others, who would not for the support of literature or religion, can throw away eighteen pence upon every pound of tea which they buy. not always under the least control.

!

A

dollar,

now money

is

as

plentiful

as

dirt, is

nothing.

When wc

minds the reasons which have been urged, I humbly judge, abundantly evince the point, that the resolve of -(4pn/ 13 has never been repealed by any subsequent one, and there never will a reason occur to justify a repeal. We might have said more, but it is an established rule in philosophy to assign no more reasons than are sufficient to account for

might oblige the traders to sell us their tea for four shillings and six pence, and observe the resolve ol Congress, or let it lie in their stores to the end of the world, we I unite, as it were, to uphold them in their wickedness. know not how we can answer it at any tribunal. I deprecate the principle from which such a conduct takes its rise. Let a collector call upon one of these gentlemen for a coun-

the effect, to establish the point in view.

ty,

answers.

It is

plain

the thought never entered their

;

a town, or Ministerial rate, and he will pour forth com-

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

697 plaints in

scarcity of mont^y, tlie weight

abundance of the

of ruinous taxes, tlie distresses of tiie times, and what not, and with so feeble a voice that letting of blood would, to human appearance, be the only thing which could ever re-

Let a man call cover him to health and usefulness again. upon one of them to pay a debt of several years' standing, and be has no money to spare his family is starving, noBut let any of thing in the bouse to eat, drink or wear. them get a hankering after the East India herb, and they can give six or nine or ten shillings per pound for anything which resembles it in smell or taste. 1 call upon you, who;

who

he, JUNE,

I call

you

— a miserable subterfuge,

to

wake up, and

like Job's comforters.

exert every generous principle,

and deliver youi-selves from the chains which you are forming and putting upon your own necks. Cease to wonder at the trader; suffer him to dupe you out of your reason, your senses, and your money, and I warrant you will lose them. For Heaven's sake, for the interest of liberty and religion, for your own interest, and that of endless ages, act in every instance, in the whole of your deportment, in an irreproachable manner, and by the means within the reach of mortals, procure distinguished blessings for this land, and descend at last to your graves with the highest marks of honour and applause. ^^

A .

t?-

b RIEND TO HIS

n COUNTRY.

and the aforesaid Ser-

geant, by his order, (as he saitb.)

After examining the Officers of the Company, as well as Privates above-mentioned, and getting what light we possibly could in this matter, the Court being

the Sergeant and

clean^l, after the most mature consideration, are unanimous in the opinion that I lieutenant Merril is not guilty of any part of the charge alleged against him, nor in any

and that

way

cuj-

Sergeant and men are not held (or ought not to be) by said Captain Lane, as it doth not appear that they were properly inlisted. jiablc in the matter;

said

Paul Duj>ley Sargent,

President.

Watertown, June

3,

1776.

The

beginning of last week, a vessel arrived in this Colony, having on board ten tonsof Sulphur, and the remainder of her cargo Salt. The former article will greatly help in manufacturing the amazing quantity of thirty-four thousand nine hundred and seven and one-quarter pounds weight of Saltpetre, made in this Colony, and brought to the Commissary-General's store, in this town, during the course of the week past, exclusive of what has been carried to the Pow-

der-Mills at Haverhill, Stoughton, &,c.

On

Tuesday, the 21st ultimo, the Continental

frigate,

of

thirty-two guns, built at Portsmouth, under the direction of John Langdon, Esquire, was launched, amidst the acclama-

many thousand who are judges

She is esteemed by have seen her, to be one dT the completest ships ever built in America. The whole time of her building did not exceed sixty working days. of

tions all

Connecticut, June 3, 1776.

698

wi;re before inlisted with I^ane

ever you be, high or low, rich or poor, men or women, who conduct in this manner, to reconcile yourselves with any I do not direct you to go to Commitrational principles. tees for relief

1776.

those

spectators.

that

TOWN-MEETING, PROVIDENCE, RHODE-ISLAND.

At the

Town-Meeting of the Town of Providence, held on Monday oi June, A. D. 1776, being the third day month Mr. John Jencks, Moderator.

a

first

of the

Voted, That the

Town

Council be, and they hereby are requested to revise and continue the Town Watch by night, under the same regulations as established by them on the 11th day of iVot!em6er last; that the Master of the Watch go through with the assessment then made by the said Town Council, in the same manner as would have been done, had the Colony done nothing respecting the Watch until that assessment shall be finished. Whereas it does not appear necessary to employ any person for the present to watch the Battery at Fox-Point by day, and in the night it may be done by the Town's

Watch It

is,

That

therefore, Voted,

the person

who now watches

the said Battery be dismissed from said employ.

GENERAL WARD TO GENERAL WASHINGTON.

I

have the honour of your Lordship's despatches of the

2d of February, enclosing his Majesty's warrant to explain and confirm, under the King's sign manual, the powers with which I am vested to post officers to vacancies, as were beyour Lordship's letter of 5th January. Lord, to represent, that, when bis Majesty was pleased to order two additional companies to each regiment under my command, (one of them to be formed by a regular regimental promotion, and the officers to return to Britain for the purpose of recruiting the company,) I did, with a scrupulous regard to his Majesty's pleasure, make the appointments accordingly, reporting my Notwithreasons for the few deviations that occurred. standing this, I have the mortification to find that my appointments, on their arrival, were not confirmed, and that all those Ensigns who had merited promotion by their personal good behaviour, and who have ever since been doing duty as such, remain superseded by others commissioned in fore expressed in

Permit me,

my

Britain.

Boston, June 3, 1776.

Sir: Enclosed are the judgment of a Court of Inquiry upon the complaint of Colonel Varnum against Lieutenant Merril, and a return of this division of the Army. Some of the articles which General Putnam sent to me for are on the way to Norwich, and the most of them will set off to-morrow morning. I am your Excellency's obedient, humble servant,

Artemas Ward.

To

extract of a letter from general HOWE to lord GEORGE GERMAINE, DATED HALIFAX, JUNE 3, 1776.

General Washington.

Many appointments have also been received from the War-Office, since the 5th of January, on vacancies that have happened under my command, and which, of course, have been filled up on the spot occasioning such embarrassment and confusion in the Array, that I have been obliged to give the enclosed order, to prevent murmurs, and remove all doubts in consequence of those double promotions, until his Majesty's further pleasure is known. I beg leave, therefore, to entreat your Lordship to lay before his Majesty the particular situation of the gentlemen ;

aggrieved, and to present

Proceedings of a Court of Inquiry held at Boston, by order of Major-General Ward, to examine a complaint exhibited by Colonel

Varnum

against Lieutenant

iel Merril, of Colonel Phinney's Regiment, ^ A. D. 1776.

Dan-

May

i24,.

=

Colonel Sargent, President.

may be

jesty

respective ranks

Pope, Hill,

Barnes,

Low, Haynes, Vinton,

Members. Captain Farrington, Lieutenant Holmes, Lieutenant Meserve, Lieutenant Herrick, Lieutenant Munrow, Ensign Mills.

The Court being convened, proceeded to inquire into a complaint exhibited by Colonel Varnum against Lieutenant Merril, for inlisting Sergeant Thompson and fifteen men.

request that his 3Ia-

Office, until

permitting

to issue

vacancies happen

in

in

to the

the

their

EnWar-

the different regiments

I shall keep all Eqopen in expectation of his Majesty's further pleaI must also flatter myself that directions may be

for their

signcies

them

pay me —home, by recommendation from

signs appointed at

sure.

Captain Captain Captain Captain Captain Captain

my humble

graciously pleased to confirm

admission

;

in

which view.

given to prevent the like inconveniences in future, as bis Majesty's service, by their continuance, must be greatly

impdeed.

VOTES OF SEVERAL TOWNS IN MASSACHUSETTS RELATING TO INDEPENDENCE. TAUNTON, BRISTOL COUNTT.

Town-Meeting, legally warned and held at ToiOTt on Monday, the 3d day of June, 1776, oa the second

At ton,

a

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

699

article mentioned in the warrant, Voted, that if the American Congress should, in their wisdom, declare independent of Great Britain, then they, (the inhabitants of this town,) with their lives and fortunes, do solemnly engage to support them in the same.

SCITUATE, PLYMOUTH COUNTY.

Nathan Gushing, Esrj., Rcpresmtative of Toim o/Scituatk, June 4, 1776.

Instructions to the

The inhabitants of this town being called together on the recommendation of our General Assembly, to signify our minds on the great point of independence on Great Britain, The Ministry of that think fit to instruct you on that head. kingdom having formed a design of subjecting the Colonies to a distant, external, and absolute power, in all cases whatsoever, wherein the Colonies have not, nor, in the nature of things, can have any share by representation, have for a coui-se of years past exerted their

utmost

art

and endeavour

plan, so destructive to both countries, into

same

to press the

execution ; but finding it, through the noble and virtuous opposition of the sons of freedom, impracticable, by means of mere political artifice and corruption, they have at length

had a

recourse to a standing army, so repugnant to

fatal

the nature of a free Government, to fire and sword, to bloodshed and devastation, calling in the aid of foreign troops, as

up the savages of the wilderness upon us being determined by practicable, to extirpate the Americans

well as endeavouring to

stir

to exercise their barbarities all

appearances,

if

;

from the face of the earth,

if possible,

resign the rights of humanity,

py country with

We,

and

to

unless they tamely

re-people

the ready sons of vassalage,

once hapsuch can be

this if

apprehending such a subjection utterand blessings of society, unanimously instruct you to endeavour that our Delegates in Congress be informed, in case that Representative body of the Continent should tiiink fit to declare the Colonies independent of Great Britain, of our readiness and determination to assist, with our lives and fortunes, in support of that (as we apprehend) necessary measure. Touching other matters, we trust in your discretion, fidelity, and zeal, for the publick welfare, to propose and forward all such measures as you shall apprehend may tend to our necessary defence in the present threatening aspect of affairs, or to promoting the internal peace, order, and good Government of this Colony. found

:

therefore,

ly inconsistent with the just rights

&c.,

JUNE,

1776.

700

by divers ill-minded persons have been written against the Government, in consequence of which divers acts of the British Parliament have been made, mutilating and destroying the Charter, and wholly subversive of the Constitution. Fleets and armies have been sent to enforce them, and at length a civil war has commenced, and the sword is drawn in our land, and the whole United Colonies involved in one common cause. The repeated and humble petitions of the people have been wantonly rejected with disdain. The Prince we once adored has commissioned the instruments of his hostile oppressions to lay waste our dwellings with fire and sword, to rob us of our properly, and wantonly to stain its innocent inhabitants. He has entered into treaties with the most cruel nations, to hire an mercenaries subjugate army of to the Colonies to his cruel

the land with the blood of

and arbitrary purposes. In short, all hopes of an accommodation are entirely at an end. A reconciliation has become as dangerous as it is absurd. A recollection of past injuries will naturally kindle and keep alive the flames of We, your constituents, therefore, think that to jealousy. be subject to or dependant on the Crown of Great Britain would not only be impracticable, but unsafe and dangerous The inhabitants of this town, therefore, in to the State. full town-meeting, unanimously instruct and direct you to give your vote, if the honourable American Congress (in whom we place the highest confidence under God) should think necessary for the safety of the United Colonies to declare them independent on Great Britain, that we. your constituents, with our lives and fortunes, will most cheerfully support them in the measure. Touching the internal policy of this Colony, it has been found, by long experience, a great charge to a great number of the towns in the Colony that they have to go to but one town in each County for the Probate of Wills and the ReWe, your constituents, are of opinion, gister of Deeds. that each office would be more to the advantage of the people, were they kept in each town, under suitable directions. Therefore, we, your constituents, instruct you to use your influence in the General Court to obtain an act enabling the several towns in this Colony to keep each of said offices within the limits of the same. Gentlemen, not doubting your zeal and abilities in the common cause, and your firm attachment to peace and good order, and in the same confidence in your sincere attachment to the publick weal, we readily submit all other matters of publick moment that may require your consideration to your own wisdom and discretion.

WRENTHAM, NORTOLK COUNTY. June

At

a general

5,

1776.

Town-Meeting of the Freeholders, and other

Town,

being warned, qualified, and assembled as the law directs, at the publick Meeting-House inhabitants of this in the First

Precinct in this

Town

To Messrs. Benjamin Guild, Joseph Haws, and Doctor Ebenezer Daggett, chosen to represent this Town the ensuing year

constituents, in

full

June 5th, 1776, give you the following

town-meetInstructions,

viz:

Whereas tyranny and tury

and

a

oppression, a

more than a cen-

little

half ago, obliged our forefathers to quit their

peaceful habitations and seek an asylum

in this distant land,

ss

:

a legal Town-Meeting held at Hanover, on the 6th day of June, 1776, agreeable to a resolve of the honourable House of Representatives of the Colony oi Massachm-

At

setts-Bay, relative to advising the person or pereons

should represent them if

:

Gentlemen: We, your ing,

hanover, plymouth county. Plymoitth,

in

the Honourable Congress should, for the safety of the

Kingdom of Great Britain, they, the inhabitants, would solemnly engage, with their lives and fortunes, to support them in the Colonies, declare them independent of the

measure Voted, unanimously,

To

instruct

amidst a howling wilderness, surrounded with savage ene-

the safety of said Colonies, declare

Kingdom of Great Britain,

was

But such was their zeal for the mankind, that they, under the smiles of Divine Providence, surmounted every difficulty, and in a little time were in the exercise of civil Government under the charter of the Crown of Great Britain. But after some years had passed, and the Colonies had become of some importance, new troubles began to arise the same spirit which caused them to leave their native land still pursued thein, joined by designing men among themselves. Letters began to be written against the Government, and the first Charter soon after destroyed. In this situation, some years passed before another Charter could be obtained and although many of the rights and privileges of the first Charter were abridged by the last, yet in that situation the Government has been tolerably quiet until the year 1763, since which the same spirit of oppression has risen up. Letters

their

unhappy

common

situation.

rights of

:

;

and inform

their

Re-

presentatives, that if the honourable Congress should, for

mies, and destitute of almost every convenience of

life,

who

the General Court, whether, that

engage with

their lives

them independent of the

that they, the inhabitants, will

and fortunes

to support

them

in the

measure.

TYRINGHAM, BERKSHIRE COUNTY. Pursuant of a resolve of the House of Representatives of the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay, passed June 7th, 1776, the Freeholders and inhabitants of the Town of Tyringham, being duly notified, assembled on Wednesday, the 26th day of said June, and after deliberately considering the state of the Colonics with regard to their being any longer subject to the Kingdom of Great Britain, Voted, unanimously. That if the honourable Continental Congress should tiiink fit to declare the Colonies independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain, that they, the inhabitants of 'Tyringham, were ready, with their lives and fortunes, to support the measure.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

701

ALFORD, BERKSHIRE COIINTV.

oi June, A. D. 1776, at four of the clock in the afternoon on said day, to consider and act on the subject of independence, as the town should think fit, in pursuance of advice from the Great and General Court of the Province of the

Massachusetts-Bay The two following Resolves being laid before the town, in a full meeting, and being separately put, they each of them passed unanimously Resolved, (as the opinion of the Town,) That by a numoer of Acts and Laws made and passed by both Houses of the British Parliament in the reign of George III, and the hostilities commenced in support of said Acts and Laws, the union and connection between Great Britain and the United Colonies of North America are, on the part of Britain, cut in sunder, and that the United Colonies ought to take

702'

meaning to use them only as such but the dispute has arisen to so great a height that it is impossible for the Colonit-s ever to be joined with Great Britain again with the least security and safety to themselves or postc^rity. We, the inhabitants of this town, do believe

it absolutely necessary of the United Colonies to be inde|)endent from Great Britain, and declare themselves entirely a separate State, as we can see no alternative but inevitable ruin or

for the safety

independence. and good men,

But

as there

who sit

is

a General Congress of wise

helm of

affairs, consulting meawhich will be most for the safety and prosperity of the whole, and have the means of intelligence and information in their hands, submit the whole affair to their wise consideration and determination and if they shall unite in a separation from Great Britain, we do unanimously determine and declare we will support them with our lives and fortunes. We do direct the Representative of this Town to lay these votes before the honourable General Assembly of this Colony, to enable them to communicate our sentiments

at the

sures

;

honourable Continental Consfress.

to the

forfeiture.

the affirmative, nem. con.

in

Therefore, Resolved, That should the honourable the Continental Congress declare the United Colonies of JS/orth America independent in all respects of the Kingdom of Great Britain, this Town will support the measure with their lives

1776.

;

a meeting of the Freeholders and other iiiliabitants of the Town of Alford, legally assembled at the house of Ensign Simeon Harlbut, in said town, on Friday, the 7th day

At

Passed

JUNE,

fcc,

and

fortunes.

ACTON, MIDDLESEX COUNTY.

At

a meeting of the Freeholders and other inhabitants of

Town oi Acton, legally assembled, on the 14th day of June, 1776, the following Instructions were given to the Representative of this Town

the

:

Passed

in

the affirmative, nem. con.

To Mr. Mark White.

Our not being favoured with the resolution of the honourable House of Representatives, calling upon the several towns in this Colony to express their minds with respect to the important question oi American Independence, but is the occasion of our not expressing our minds sooner Sir

NORWICH, HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.

:

late

At a meeting of the Freeholders and the

Town

other inhabitants of

of Norwich, legally assembled, on the 7th of

June, 1776 Voted, (on the article in the warrant respecting independence from Great Britain,) in case the honourable Continental Congress and the body of the L^nited Colonies think best to declare independence from Great Britain, the Town oi Norwich votes to join to support and defend the same.

PALMER, HAMPSHIRE COUNTY. meeting of the inhabitants of Palmer, lemet at the publick Meeting-House, on Monday, the I7th day oi June, 1776, at one o'clock in the aftenioon. The meeting being opened, Mr. Robert Farrell was chosen Moderator, and then proceeded and voted the following In-

At a

very

full

gally

structions to the Representative of this

Town now

at the

General Assembly of this Colony, as the sentiments of

this

Town That whereas the Court of Great Britain hath, by sundry Acts of Parliament, assumed the power of legislation for the Colonies in all cases whatsoever, without the consent of the have likewise exercised the assumed power for inhabitants raising a revenue in the Colonies without their consent cannot justly call that our own which others may, when Have likewise they please, take from us against our will. appointed a new set of officers to superintend these revenues, wholly unknown in the Charter, and by their Commissioners invested with powere altogether unconstitutional and destructive to the security which we have a right to enjoy. Fleets and Armies have been introduced to support these ;

:

We

unconstitutional officers in collecting these unconstitutional

revenues; have altered the Charter of this Colony, and thereby overthrown the Constitution together with many other grievous acts of Parliament, too grievous to be borne. The peaceable inhabitants being alarmed at such repeated inroads on the Constitution, and gigantick strides of despotick power over the Colonies, the Colonies petitioned the King finding that to fail, petitioned gefor redress of grievances nerally, begging as children to a father to be heard and re;

;

but all to no purpose, the petitions being treated ; with almost contempt. The United Colonies, finding that no redress could he had from Great Britain, unitedly agreed to an opposition in the most peaceable way they could con-

;

we

cheerfully

of enslaving the Colonies, declared them Rebels, and treated them as such. The Colonies, being driven to a state of despair of the least relief from them, were obliged, by the law of self-preservation, to take up arms in their own defence,

this

opportunity

The

to instruct

you on

subverting our Constitution,

the many injuries and unheard-of barbarities which these Colonies have received from Great Britain, confirm us in the opinion that the present age will be deficient in their duty to God, to their posterity, and themselves, if they do This is the only not establish an American Republick.

But we wish to see established. freely submit this interesting affair to the wisdom of the honourable Continental Congress, who we trust are guided and directed in these important affairs by the Supreme Governour of the world and form of Government

mean

we

not to dictate.

We

;

them the strongest assurances that, if they should declare America to be a free and independent Republick, your constituents will defend the measure with their lives and fortunes. We further entreat you that you do nothing to subvert the laws concerning the settling and maintaining Gospel but, on the contrary, that you do all you can to ministers uphold them in their full power.

we

entreat you,

sir,

to give

;

BEDFORD, MIDDLESEX COUNTY.

At a

general

Town-Meeting,

legally assembled,

on the

17th day of June, A. D. 1776, the following article was considered, and acted upon, viz: resolve of the late House of Representatives, passed May 10, 1776, that the inhabitants of each town in the

A

Colony ought,

in full

meeung, warned

for that

purpose, to

should be selected to represent them in the next General Court, whether, should the honourable Congress, for the safety of the said Colonies, declare them independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain, then vote advise the person

who

we, the inhabitants of the Town of Bedford, will solemnly engage, with our lives and fortunes, to support them in the measure.

that

lieved

trive, being willing to try every peaceable measure that could possibly be invented, rather than break with Great Britain. Great Britain, being bent on her favourite scheme

embrace

that important question.

MURRA\TIELD, HAMPSHIRE COUNTY. June

17, 1776.

meeting of the inhabitants of the Town of Murrayjield, regularly assembled, on the third article in the warrant with regard to Independency from Great Bri-

At a

tain

legal

:

Voted, (in a neariy full meeting,) That, under the present circumstances of the Thirteen United Colonies, and the treatment of Great Britain towards America, we viewman, to be declared an it necessary, and are willing, to a

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

703

independent State, whenever Congress shall judge best.

tl)e

honourable Continental

Leverctt,

18, 1776.

Congress, for the safety of the said Colonies, declare them independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain, they (the said inhabitants) will solemnly engage with their lives and being put to fortunes to support them in the measure?



the affirmative.

in

1776.

704

upon the several towns

giving you instructions

June

Agreeable to a resolve of the late House of Representatives^ passed May 10, 1776, this Town met, on due warning, for that purpose; and, taking into consideration the important resolve, viz: Whether, should the honourable

unanimously voted

sentatives, calling

JUNE,

Colony

in this

to

express their minds with respect to American independence of the Kingdom of Great Britain, is the occasion of our

LEVEKETT, HAMPSHIUE COUNTY.

vote,

Sic,

this being the greatest and most important question that ever came before this town. few years ago, sir, such a question would have put us into a surprise, and, we apprehend, would have been treated with the utmost contempt. then looked on ourselves happy in ;

A

We

It being our being subjects of the King of Great Britain. forefathers' native country, we looked up unto them as our Slate and we have looked upon it as our parent always duty, as well as our interest, to defend and support the honour of the Crown of Great Britain, and we have always counting freely done it, both with our lives and fortunes ;



happy when

union and connection But the scene is now changed our with our parent State. She who was called our mosentiments are now altered. ther country and parent State, has now, without any just ourselves

in the strictest

;

GAGEBOROUGH, BRISTOL COUNTT. June

19,

1776.

a meeting of the inhabitants of the Town of Gageborough, agreeable to a resolve of the House of Representatives, of June 7, 1776, requesting the several Towns in

At

Colony to show their sentiments respecting the Independence of the Colonies

this

Mr. Stephen Warren, Moderator. Resolved, nem. con.. That, if the honourable Congress, agreeable to the earnest desire of this Town, for the safety of the Colonies, shall declare them independent of the King-

dom

of Great Britain, they (the inhabitants) will cheerfully, them in the measure.

to the utmost of their power, support

NATICK, MIDDLESEX COUNTT.

At

Town of Natick, June 20, 1776, consequence of a resolve of the late

a meeting of the

legally warned, in

House of Representatives being

laid before the

ting forth their sense of the obligations that lie

town

in

their

lives

Town,

set-

upon every

Colony solemnly to engage to support with and fortunes the honourable Continental Con-

this

gress, should said Congress, for the safety of the Colonies,

come

into the measure of declaring themselves independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain, it was unanimously Voted, That, in consideration of tbe many acts of the British Parliament, passed at divers sessions of the same, within about thirteen years past, relating to said Colonies,

especially those within the

two or three

last years,

by which

every idea of moderation, justice, humanity, and Christianity are entirely laid aside, and those principles and measures adopted and pursued which would disgrace the most unenlightened and uncivilized tribe of aboriginal natives in the

most interior parts of this extensive continent and, also, in consequence of the glaring impropriety, incapacity, and fatal tendency, of any State whatever, at the distance of three thousand miles, to legislate for these Colonies, which at the same time are so numerous, so knowing, and capable of legislating or to have a negative upon those laws which they, in their respective Assemblies, and by their united representation in General Congress, shall, from time to time, want and establish for themselves and upon divers other considerations, which, for brevity's sake, we omit to menwe. the inhabitants o( Natick, in town-meeting assemtfon, bled, do hereby declare, agreeable to the tenor of the aforementioned resolve, that, should the honourable Continental Congress declare these American Colonies independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain, we will, with our lives and fortunes, join with the other inhabitants of this Colony, and with those of the other Colonies, in supporting them in such measure, which we look upon to be both important and necessary, and which, if we may be permitted to suggest our opinion, tiie sooner it is come into the fewer difficulties we sJiall have to contend with, and the grand objects of peace, liberty, and safety, will be more likely speedily to be restored and established in our once happy land. ;

;

;



TOPSFIELD, ESSEX COUNTY.

At a

legal

Town-meeting held

ment, June 21, 1776, the structions

:

Topsfield, by adjournvoted the following In-

in

The unprovoked

enemy.

become

their great-

Colonies have received ; the unjustifiable and unconstitutional claims that have been made on the Colonies by the Court of Great Britain, to force us, and take away our substance from us, and that at any time, or for any use, that they please, without our consent, and the prosecuting these their claims, have

est

injuries these

been cruel and unjust to the highest degree. The whole conduct of the Court of Great Britain, and the fallacious conduct of their Governours appointed and sent into these Colonies, are so well known, and have been, by much abler hands, set forth in such a clear, plain, and true light, we think it needless to enumerate any further For these reasons, sir, as well as many others particulars. that may be mentioned, we are confirmed in the opinion that the United Colonies will be greatly wanting in their duty, both to the great Governour of the Universe, to themselves, and posterity, if independence of the Kingdom of Great Britain is not declared, as soon as may be these but we would not be understood that being our sentiments we mean to dictate. Leaving that momentous affair to the well-known wisdom, prudence, justice, and integrity, of that honourable body the Continental Congress, under whose direction it more immediately belongs, and in respect to a form of government for the future, we take it that belongs and we could wish that no Court nor to an after question Congress on this continent might spend their time in debating about forms and ceremonies, equal or unequal repreAs innovations are always sentation in Court, at present. ;



;

dangerouS;

we

heartily wish that the ancient rules in the

much contending might be strictly adhered to, until such time as the whole of the people of this Colony have liberty to express their sentiments in respect to that affair as fully as they have in for we are full in the opinion the case of independence that the sentiments of the people in general are never fully collected by the vote or opinion of a few persons met together, appointed, when they descend into matters of great importance that are wholly new, especially when the whole of the people are concerned therein. Having thus freely spoken our sentiments in respect to inCharter, which this Province has been so for,

;

dependence,

&,c.,

we now

instruct you,

sir,

to give the ho-

nourable the Continental Congress the strongest assurance that if, for the safety of the United Colonies, they shall declare America to be independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain, your constituents will support and defend the measure with their lives and fortunes, to the utmost of their

power.

SOUTHAMPTON, HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.

At

meeting of the inhabitants of Southampton, met Mceting-Housc, on Friday, June 21, 1776, respecting being independent of Great Britain, it was as follows unanimously Voted, That if the honourable Congress should, for the safety of the said Colonies, declare them independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain, we (the inhabitants) will engage with our lives and fortunes to support them in the measure. a

full

at their

.

:

To Mr. John Gould, Sir

Town

cause, or injury done by these Colonies,

A

Representative

resolution of the honourable

of Topsfield. House of Repre-

NORTHBRIDGE, WORCESTER COUNTY.

At a

legal

meeting of the inhabitants oi JSorthbridge, held

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, Lc, JUNE,

705

Jime 25, 1776, it was unanimously voted to suppovt the Continental Congress with their lives and foi'tunes, if they siiould declare the United Colonies independent of Great

treated with such indignity by

Town

the

706

some of

of Barnstuljk. JosEi'H Otis,

Benjamin Smith, Zacciieus Howlanr», Josf;i'ii Jenkins, Joseph Smith,

VVILLIAMSTOWN, BEUKSIIIllE COUNTY. June

Town-meeting of

2'i,

1776.

town, held on this day, for the following purposes, the following motion was made and put to vote, viz VViiether, should the honourahle Congress, for the safety of the Colonies, declare them independent of Great Britain, the inhabitants of this town will solemnly engage with their lives and fortunes to support them in the measure? Passed in the aflirmative, nem. con. legal

this

inhabitanls of

Binney Baker, Jonathan Hallet, Cornelius Lovell, Seth Lothrop, Benoni Crocker, John Blish, Edmlnb Hawes, John Russel, Charles Cona.nt.

Freeman Parker, John Crocker, Jr Nathan JJassett, David Smith,

:

tlie

Nathaniel IIowland, Ebenezek Lothrop,

Thomas Annablk,

Britain.

At a

1776.

Job Howlani), James Davis,

STURBRIDGE, WORCESTER COUNTY.

Barnstable, Barnstable county.

At a Town-meeting held

The

at

Barnstable, Ju7ie

2.5,

1776:

question being put, agreeable to the Resolve of the

General Court, Whether, if the Continental Congress should judge expedient to declare the United Colonies independent, they, the inhabitants of the Town oi Barnstahle would supIt passed port the measure at the hazard of life and estate ? in

At a Town-meeting in Sturbridge, June 27, 1776, being duly warned for the purpose aftermenlioned, after some debate on the matter respecting independence, it was put to vote, AVhether, should the

Kingdom of Great

Britain, they, the said inhabitants of Sturbridge, will solemnly engage, with their lives and fortunes, to support them in the measure?

Passed

the negative.

honourable Congress, for the them independent of the

safety of these Colonies, declare

the aflirmative unanimously.

in

Upon which

a number of respectable inhabitants, whose names are underwritten, judging such a procedure would have a tendency to disunite the Colonies, and to injure the

cause of their country, did at said meeting publickly protest against it, hoping thereby to avoid the imputation of acquiescence in so dishonourable a measure.

Freeman Parker,

Joseph Otis, Thomas Annable, Benjamin Smith,

B. Baker,

Nathan Bassett,

FITCHBURGH, WORCESTER COUNTY. July

That

Zaccheus Howland, David Smith, Ebenezer Lothrop, Job Rowland, Joseph Jenkins, Joseph Smith, John Crocker, Jr.,

July

Town of Barnof said town, at their

the subscribers, inhabitants of the

meeting held on Tuesday, 25th of June instant, respecting the giving their Representative instructions with regard to the independency of the Colonies, as it was recommended to the several towns in this Colony, by way of resolve, from the honourable House of Representatives; and as a vote was put in said meeting to know whether the town would proceed to give any instructions to their Representatives, agreeable to the aforesaid recommendation which was ;

carried in the negative.

And judging it to be our duty to we do it for the following reason :

protest against said vote,

We

think such a

mea-

sure as proposed in said resolve to be the most salutary that can be gone into for the safety

And

we are ready and willing to stand by such a declaration (if it should take place) to the utmost of our power, with our lives and estates and being very unwilling that the aforesaid vote should be passed over in silence, for fear of offending our own consciences, in being thought to acquiesce in so strange a vote of the town, and of offending our countrymen and brethren in other towns who may go into contrary measures, entirely abhorring any principles but what are for the good of the United Colonies oi America, and detesting those arguments brought by some men in said meeting to dissuade the people from complying with said recommendation, we take this method of letting the publick know our dissent from the aforesaid proceedings of the town, having no other way to make our sentiments request that this Protest may be entered in known. entirely independent,

;

GREENWICH, HAMPSHIRE COUNTY.

At

a legal Town-meeting, held at the Publick House, Greenwich, on Monday, the 1st day of July, 1776, at three

of the clock in the afternoon, hemiah Stebbins Moderator.

jured and oppressed country, treated with every species of wickedness used by tyranny to enslave mankind and it is ;

a matter of great grief to us that the cause of liberty

— Vol.

vi.

first

voted and chose Mr.

Ae-

2d. Voted for independence on Great Britain if the honourable American Congress thinks fit, and most for the init being a unanimous vote, terest and safety of the Colonies not one dissenting. ;

WINCHENDON, WORCESTER COUNTY.

At

a general

is

45

Town-meeting of the Freeholdere and other

inhabitants of IVinchcndon, qualified to vote in the choice of

whereas a Representative, on the 4th day of July, 1776 this Town has been called upon by the honourable House ;

of Representatives of this Colony to signify their minds in regard to American Independence, being fully sensible of the cruel and oppressive measures which are pui-sued by the King and Parliament of Great Britain in order to enslave these Colonies, and consequently the difficulty that will attend our being ever again united with Great Britain ; Therefore, unanimously Resolved, That if the honourable Continental Congress should think best, for the safety of the Colonies, to declare them independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain, that we will, with our lives and fortunes,

support them in the measure.

EASTHAM, BARNSTABLE COUNTY.

We

Town-book, to let posterity know that there were a few this town who dared to stand forth in favour of an in-

Fourth Series.

1776.

:

as

the duty of every individual to give his voice in favour

of the aforesaid recommendation, in case the honourable Continental Congress see cause to declare these Colonies

in

1,

Agreeable to a Resolve of the late honourable House of Representatives, passed on the lOth of May last, the inhabitants of this town being assembled for that jjurpose, on the 1st day of July instant, and unanimously voted as follows, viz That should the honourable Congress, for the safety of the Colonies, declare them independent of Great Britain, the inhabitants of Ashby will solemnly engage with their lives and fortunes to support them in the measure.

and well-being of the

Colonies, under our present oppressed situation.

the

1776.

the

ASHBY, MIDDLESEX COUNTY.

Nathaniel Howland.

stable, protest against the proceedings

it is

if

James Davis,

Barnstable, June 26, 1776.

We,

1,

honourable Continental Congress should, for the safety of these United Colonies, declare them independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain, that we, the inhabitants of said town, will, so far as we are able, support them in the measure with our lives and fortunes. Voted,

Voted

to instruct

our Representative to use

his influence

that the Continental Congress do declare the United Colonies independent of Great Britain, if they think proper and to the advantage of the Colonies cause with our lives and fortunes.

;

that

we

will

support the

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

707

GENERAL HOWE TO LORD GEORGE GERMATNE. Halifax,

Wy Lord

June

4,

remove.

will

JUNE,

But

this

superior exertions on

1776.

The

mercantile goods at Boston, having attracted your Lordship's regard as well as that of Lord Dartmouth, I took such measures as were most advisable to :

Sic,

answer the purposes required, which will appear from the and although the enclosed detail of what has been done design has been mostly frustrated by the loss of the principal ;

ship, vet to set this matter in a clear light, and to lodge, as it were,'a record of the transaction, I beg leave to trouble your Lordship with the particuhu-s relative to it the main object ;

being to deprive the Rebels of what they stood most in need; the goods in possession will remain in store at Halifax. It is found that the regiment projected by Governour Leggc, to be raised within the Province of Nova-Scotia, cannot be completed and to relieve Government from un-

1776.

708

circumstance should rouse us to

the occasion.

The

of the

Militia

United Colonies are a body of troops that may be depended upon. To their virtue, their Delegates in Congress now make the most solemn appeal. They are called upon to say whether they will live slaves, or die freemen. They are requested to step forth in defence of their wives, their children, their liberty, and ever)' thing they hold dear. The cause is certainly a most glorious one, and I trust every man in the Colony of New-HampsJiire is determined to see it gloriously ended, or perish in the ruins of it. In short, on your exertions at this critical period, together with those of the

common cause, the salvation of ^menow evidently depends. Your Colony, I am persuaded, will not be behindhand.

other Colonies in the rica

Exert,

therefore,

every nerve to

yourselves.

distinguish

;

have taken the liberty to put this corps into a different form after the 24th instant, leaving an opening for all concerned to entitle themselves to their present appointments by success in recruiting. This regulation is enclosed for }our Lordship's approbaand 1 am, &c., tion necessary expense,

I

William Howe.

;

To

Quicken your preparations, and stimulate the good people of your Government, and there is no danger, notwithstanding the mighty armament with which we are threatened, but you will be able to lead them to victory, to liberty, and to happiness. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient, and very humble servant, t r> 7 ^

To MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COMMITTEE OF OBSERVATION FOR CALVERT COUNTY. [No.

Annapolis, June 4, 1776.

1.3.]

Gentlemen Captain Beallhas complained :

We

be done.

you would make inquiry into the affair, and if there are not houses sufficient, we would have you cause barracks to be erected, so that the men may be lodged without inconvenience to their Captain and themselves.

to the

Honourable Convention of Maryland.']

president of CONGRESS TO PENNSYLVANIA ASSEMBLY. Philadelphia, June 4, 1776.

therefore desire

We To

the

are, &ic.

Committee of Observation

PhilaJelphia,

Gentlemen

:

Our

affairs

June4, 1776.

are hastening fast to a crisis

Gentlemen

:

By

the resolves sent herewith, which I do

myself the honour of enclosing, in obedience to the commands of Congress, you will perceive they have judged it necessary to call upon the Militia at this alarming crisis. have too much reason to believe the whole force of Great Britain, aided by foreign auxiliaries, will be exerted against us the ensuing campaign. In this case the Continental troops dispersed through such a number of Colonies will be totally inadequate to our defence nor is it possible at this day to raise and discipline troops ready to lake the field by the time they will be wanted. Our country, however, is not destitute of resources.- The Militia of the United Colonies are a body of troops that may To their virtue, their Delegates in be depended upon. Congress now make the most solemn appeal. They are called upon to say whether they will live slaves, or die freemen. They are requested to step forth in defence of their wives, their children, their liberty, and everything they hold dear. The cause is certainly a most glorious one, and I hope every man in the Colony oi Pennsylvania is determined to see it gloriously ended, or to perish in the ruins of it. In short, on your exertions at this critical period, together

We

County.

for Calvert

PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO THE CONVENTION OF NEWHAMPSHIRE.

;

and the approaching campaign will, in all probability, determine fonever the fate of America. Such is the unrelenting spirit which possesses the tyrant ot Britain and his Parliament, that they have left no measure unessayed that had a tendency to accomplish our destruction. Not satisfied with having lined our coasts with ships of war, to starve us into a surrender of our liberties,

from being supplied with arms and ammunow about to pour in a number of foreign who, from their want of connections and those feelings of sympathy which frequently bind together the different parts of the same empire, will be more likely to do the business of their masters without remorse or compunction. By the best intelligence from Canada, it appears that our affairs in that quarter wear a melancholy aspect. Should the Canadians and Indians take up arms against us, (which there is too much reason to fear,) we shall then have the whole force of that country to contend with, joined to that of Great Britain, and all her foreign auxiliaries. In this situation, what steps must we pursue? Our Continental troops alone are unable to stem the torrent nor is it possible at this day to raise and discipline men ready to take the field by the time they will be wanted. From the secrecy with which the Ministry cairy on their

and

[The same to the Honourable Assembly o( J\fassachusetts-Bay, to the Honourable Governour Trumbull, to the Honourable Convention of JS'e-ic-York, io the Honourable Convention oi J\'e-w- Jersey, lo the Honourable Assembly of the Government of JVeii'- Castle, Kejtt, and Sussex, on Velaioare, anJ

stationed at

may

Point, and has requested something



rresident.

the Honourable Convention of Neiv-Mampshire.

that he hath

company

not sufficient houseroom for the half

Drum

John „ Hancock,

•'

Lord George Germaine.

to prevent us

nition, they are

troops,

;

with those of the other Colonies, the salvation of America now evidently depends. I shall only add, that from your zeal and ardour in the

American cause,

I

have the greatest

reason to hope you will pay that immediate attention to the

enclosed resolves, which your own situation in particular and the publick good so evidently require. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient

humble servant,' and very '

To

t u John Hancock,

-o

-j

.,

1 resident.

the Honouiable Assembly of Pennsylvania.

;

we enemies may

machinations,

neither

our

be.

know

Perhaps

this

landing on some part of our country.

moment

enclosed resolves, which

I

have

it

in

they are

In this difficult

trying situation of our affairs, the Congress have

command

weare. Philadelphia, June 4, 1776.

how near

their views, or at

NEVV-HAMPSHIRE delegates in congress TO MESHECH

come

and

to the

to transmit

you by express, containing matters of the greatest importance, and to which I beg leave to request your attention. You will there find the Congress have judged it necessary to call upon the Militia at this alarming crisis. Should the United Colonies be able to keep their ground this campaign, I am under no apprehensions on account of any future otie. We have many disadvantages at present to struggle with, which time and progress in the art of war

We

wrote you the 28th ultimo, since which Congress have resolved to send a further reinforcement into

Sir

:

Canada.

Seven hundred and

fifty

men, including

officei-s,

be required of our Colony to serve as Militia until the 1st of December, the officers to be commissioned by the Colony. It is absolutely necessary our posts should be supported in that country, for should the enemy get possession, we should certainly have a long and troublesome war on our hands; but if we are successful, which by proper exerwill

tions

and Divine assistance there

is

no doubt

of, this

cam-

You paign will place us out of the reach of their malice. will receive the resolution respecting this reinforcement from

'

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

709

The money mentioned in our last is not the President. yet gone forward, not having had an opportunity, but to leave in a few days.

We

William Whipple. JosiAH Bartlett.

To

Meshcch

fVeare, Esq.

Philadelphia, 1

June

received your favour of IGtii February

4, 1776.

by

yester-

day's post, with its enclosure, for which, and the information respecting the state of your Province, I return you my

am

exceedingly sorry for the difficulties you and that they are not yet ail at an but I am hopeful by your perseverance and activity will be surmounted, and that things will assume a thanks.

had

I

to encounter,

have end they

far

removed from the department you are

be impossible

for

me

to

know

in,

it

will

or transmit the orders neces-

must therefore refer you to Major-General Lee, who has been appointed to command in the Southern District, and to Brigadier-General Armstrong, in South- Carolina, who are more immediately They will give you from time to time such inover you. structions as appear to them proper and likely to advance the publick good, which you must make the rule of your conduct. You will be particular and punctual in making your returns to these gentlemen, who will forward them to me. And trusting that everything in your power will be done to promote the common cause and interest of the United Colonies, I am, sir, Sic,

I

WARD TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. is

to

Norwich,

to the care

of Captain

by him

agreeable to General Putnam's request

May.

6,

1776.

the invoice of the ordnance stores which

tington, to be forwarded from thence

of the 24th of

to

in his

Hun-

Neiv-York,

letter to

All those articles were taken

in

me the

Hope, lately brought into this harbour by Captain Mugford. I am, your Excellency's obedient, humble servant,

ship

Artemas Ward.

To

casks of Bill-hooks. ;

CON-

IN

GRESS. Watertown, June

Gentlemen: At

the

same time

that

we

6,

1776.

think ourselves

obliged to acknowledge the vigilance and care of our Delegates to the defence of our Colony, and the attention of the

Congress

to

Colonies, in

an impartial defence of every part of the United he late provision made for the Massachusetts, I

adding three more battalions to those it, we conceive it necessary to inform you that we think it will be very difficult, if not impossible, to raise the battalions proposed to be raised here without some additional encouragement. We are sensible are of the importance and necessity of raising them. willing to give every encouragement in our power to effect it. know of no encouragement but by a bounty but yet dare not venture on such a measure without some assurances that such a step would be agreeable to Congress. You will therefore please to give us the sense of Congress on this subject, or such assurances of approbation of Congress, if we should adopt the measure, as we may rely on. We request this to be done as soon as possible, that the necessary steps for raising the battalions may be taken and executed with the despatch that the situation of this Colony requires. We cannot conclude without expressing our approbation of the promotion of Generals Gates and Mijflin, and our wishes that they may be appointed to the command of the troops here. will return, agreeable to the resolve of Congress, a list of Field-Officers as soon as it can be prepared. We should be glad to be informed of the extent of the encouragement Congress would be willing to give, and if they would dis-

by

their resolve for



the defence of

left for

We

We

;

We

approve of any addition

this

Colony may think necessary

to

General Washington.

extract of a letter FROM GENERAL HOWE TO LORD GEORGE GERMAINE, DATED HALIFAX, JUNE 7, 1776.

On the 11th oi May I had the honour of your Lordship's despatches of the 28th March, by the Dcspenccr packet, with duplicates of the 1st and 7th February, the originals of which were delivered by Captain Dirkson, commanding the Greyhound frigate, on the 16th following. I have suffered the most sensible mortification by being but the late arrivals of the so long detained at this place provision ships, and the repairing of those included in the ;

Boston, June

Sir Enclosed have forwarded :

tons.

make.*

;

;

two

again.

N. B. Mr. Shaw's above, Mr. L. says, is on Captain Harding's account and voted an Order of £200 be drawn in favour of Captain Ephraim Bill, to be accounted for by him, as he was Overseer of building the Colony ship at »S'«y(Order delivered Colonel Huntington.) trook. Voted, That an Order be drawn on the Treasurer in favour of Captain John Deshon, as Commissary of the Companies stationed at Neiv-London, for the sum of £500, to be accounted for by him on settlement of his account. (Order given

to Captain HuntNew-York, viz :

MASSACHUSETTS ASSEJrBLY TO THEIR DELEGATES

30

2 14 3 4 4 16

at

;

10

-

Army

casks Felling-Axes two casks Broad-Axes. Thirteen casks Hatchets. Six casks 24d. Nails. One cask 5-inch Spikes three casks 6-inch Spikes one cask 7-inch Spikes; two casks 8^-inch Spikes. Iron-shod Shovels, three hundred and forty-one. Iron Shovels, one hundred and fifty-nine. Spades, one thousand. Mantelets, one hundred.

;

-

Ball,

Two

-----------.--•-.

the

Carpentere' Tools, three chests. One case Hand-saws, containing forty-two. One case Hand-hammers, containing fifty.

Hartford, Fridaij, June 7, 1776, Present:

month, both The Master to be £5 per month, - - One Gunner, £4 10 per month, One Gunner's JIate, £3 4 per month, . One Boatswain, £3 per month, One Clerk, £3 12 per month, One Steward, £3 per month, One Cook, £2 14 per month, One Carpenter's Mate, with necessary Tools, Two Sergeants, at £2 8 per month, - Two Corporals, at £2 4 per month, - One Surgeon, per month, Able Seamen, per month, Able Marines, per month,

Norwich /or

five hundred barrels. Carbines complete, five hundred. Sand-bags, (bushel,) five thousand. Sand-bags, (half-bushel,) five thousand.

Musket

Honour

728

1776.

Powder,

a meeting of the Governour, &ic., in the morning, at

Hi's

JUNE,

of Ordnance Stores forwarded

Invoice

missed.

At

k.c.,

number requisite for transporting the troops (a return of which was forwarded to the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury in my despatch of the 8th May) have made an earlier

removal impracticable.

Tile troops, however, are at length embarked, waiting only for favourable weather to proceed to Sandy-Hook. In the early operations there, I shall have the closest attention to the reinforcements daily expected,

•Is THE

HorsE

and not hazard any



Read, and 6, 1776. ordered to be sent immediately to the Delegates of this Colony at the honourable Continental Congress. Sent up for concurrence, J. WiiinEN, Speaker. of

ly CouNcii, June

6,

Rkprksextativks, June

Read and concurred. JoHX LowEiL, Deputy Secretary P. T.

1776.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

729

In lliis idea, I at present think it disadvantageous attacks. be most advisable to make a landinj; upon Lonf^-Mand, in order to secure tiie passage of the shipping into tiic harbour, which can only be effected by liie possession of a commanding height near Brooklyn, said to be fortified. will

Should the enemy offer battle in the open field, we must and from the high order the troops are now it in, I have every reason to flatter myself with success, which once obtained, and prosecuted immediately upon the arrival of the reinforcements, would not fail to have the most intimidating effects upon the minds of those delud(!d people. When General Clinton ]o\ns the Army, to which purpose I have written to him consonant to the orders he will have received from your Lordship, (a copy of which you were pleased to transmit to me,) if we should not find our strength not decline

a division of the

arrival of the Hessians,

we may

Army

previous to the

proceed to York, or to such

nevertheless

force the rebels from the island of

New-

may

be deemed most conducive to his But General Clinton must have a part Majesty's service. of the Hessians with him on the side of Rhode-Island, and a personal communication v»ith General De Heister will

other operation as

arrange their business more to the satisfaction of than could be done separately or by

The

the coast.

letter, to

Admiral, therefore, at

my

parties

all

meet him upon

request, has sent

orders to the cruisers not only off Rhode-Island, but to

on the northern

rope to proceed to distinctly

coast, to direct the troops from

New- York,

all

Eu-

may more

from whence they

be ordered to their several destinations for the And that no time may be lost

operations of the campaign.

in disposing the troops for action after the arrival

of the

fleet

New-York, I intend to proceed in a frigate to SandyHook, that I may have the advantage of communicating with

at

Governour Tryon, state of the Rebel

for

obtaining the best information of the

Army

in the environs of that place, and be ready to receive the Hessians, in case of their arrival before the fleet from hence. My best endeavours shall be employed to engage the

that

I

may

assistance of the Indians of the Six Nations, and

by the influence of Colonel Guy Johnson,

to

I

hope,

make them

useful.

Admiral Shuldham having sent me the copy of a letter he has lately received from the Lords Commissionere of the Admiralty, relative to the transports being taken from under the orders of the Commander-in-Chief of the land forces,

beg leave

to represent to

your Lordship that

I

I

apprehend

such a disposal of them will greatly impede the service, from the necessity the land officer must be under of making applications to the Admiral on every movement for the convenience of the troops, and for a variety of services needless to point out to your Lordship wherefore, I am hopeful 1 may :

not receive any order for a change in the present

command

over them.

The advanced

rank which the King has been pleased to this country is received by those here with the highest sense of the most dutiful respect for his Majesty's Royal attention, and by no one more gratefully than myself. I shall not fail to communicate to Lieutenant-General Clinton his Majesty's particular regard to the seniority of his rank, which would have confer upon the General Officers serving in

placed him second previously

My last

1776.

730

in the Naval Department upon this extensive coast, is a circumstance that could not fail to give me the highest satisfaction and 1 promise myself fiom his experience every assistance that can be given in the prosecution of the wnjunct war we are now entering upon. ;

;

sufficient to afford

others

he, JUNE,

in

employed

command to the

in

Canada, had he not been

southward.

was dated the 28lh April, and as five or six transports had then arrived, 1 must conclude the whole force is collected there before this time. intelligence from that quarter

The Forty-Seventh Regiment not being included in your Lordship's distribution of troops destined for Canada, I shall presume it may now remain in the place of the ThirtyThird, but shall pay due obedience to the orders for Lord Comwallis's serving in that Army. The Sixth Regiment cannot be employed early in the campaign, as I shall not it in my power to send transports for them until after my arrival at New-York. The Rebel prisoners are returned in the Greyhound, and 1 shall use my endeavours to follow your Lordship's direc-

have

them, and others in the same predicament. It is with concern I am to advise your Lordship of another ordnance store-ship, named the Hope, being taken in BosShe had a large proportion of intrenching tools ton-Bay. on board, and it is said fifteen hundred barrels of powder. The appointment of Lord Howe to the chief command tions respecting

LOOSE TllOLfillTS ON GOVERNMENT. In whatever situation

ranging the forests or

we

iii

in

we

take a view of man, whetlicr

the rude state of his primeval existence,

the smooth situation of polished society

—on Labrador, —we

place him

coasts of

wheresoever

;

the burning sands of Africa, the freezing or the more congenial climes of the tem-

shall everywhere find him the same complex being, a slave to his passions, and tossed and agitated

perate zones

by a thousand disagreeing virtues and discordant vices. To correct this freedom and versatility of his nature, to put a stop to the violences which must take place from this disordered state of his reign, and to separate his virtues from his vices, and call them forth into action, men find it necessary either to submit to the casual rule of superior abilities, or, by arranging themselves into societies, to establish forms and regulations for the good of the whole. These forms and regulations admit of a very great variety; but whether they be derived from the casual subordination, or the positive institutions of men, this is still a leading principle in them all, " That the people have at all times a right, from the sacred and unalienable Charter of the Almighty, to change

Government under which they live, where those changes and alterations tend to the general good of the community, and the happiness of its members." But where is this general good, this national felicity, to be found ? It is more than probable that it will be found, in the greatest proportion, in that society which best secures the observance of justice, which inspires and preserves the virtue of its members, and which actually engages them in the exercise of their best talents and happiest dispositions.

or alter the

The

security to justice

is

the political liberty of the State,

promulgated by its laws, which relates to the supreme power and the subject, and is the object of political law or from the subject to one another, and is the object of civil and This political liberty will always be most criminal law. perfect where the laws have derogated least from the origithe right to equality, which is adverse to nal right of men every species of subordination beside that which arises from It is this the difference of capacity, disposition, and virtue. sense of equality which gives to every man a right to frame and execute his own laws, which alone can secure the observance of justice, and diffuse equal and substantial liberty for those laws must necessarily be the most to the people perfect which are dictated or corrected by the sense of parties in one capacity, to whom they are to be applied in another. Hence that fundamental maxim in all just Governments, that the law-makers must never be above the law and hence arises the horrour of that idolatrous paramount superiority of Kings, which is the government of force, and It is this principle of equality, the subversion of all law. this right, which is inherent in every member of the community, to give his own consent to the laws by which he is to be bound, which alone can inspire and preserve the virtue of its members, by placing them in a relation to the publick and to their fellow-citizens, which has a tendency to engage ;



;

the heart and affections to both.

Men

love the

community

which they are treated with justice, and in which they meet w ith considerations proportioned to the proofs they give They love those with whom of ability and good intentions. they live on terms of equality, and under a sense of common interests. It engages them in the exercise of their best talents and happiest dispositions, for the Government and in

defence of their country are the best and noblest occupations They lead to the exercise of the greatest virtues of men.

and most respectable talents, which is the greatest blessing Thrice happy is that peothat any institution can bestow. ple where the members at large may be entrusted with such are the but. alas their own Government and defence limited powers of men that this equal and perfect system of Icnslation is seldom to be found in the world, and can only take place in small communities; for whenever the society ;

becomes numerous or extensive, the in a collective

!

privilege of legislation

capacity, fram the impracticability of con-

vening, must unavoidably and necessarily cease.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, JUNE,

731 To remedy

this evil,

a method has been embiaeed of de-

Several puting Representatives from tiie people at large. requisites, however, are necessary to render this representaIt ought to be full, equal, free; tion adequate to the trust. as it is, at best, but a species of aristocracy, it is indispensably necessary to guard against the evils which are attendant on this form of Government. And its power should

and

be purely .\ full

is

;

right °

is.

it

j-.

Uemocraticus.

Williamsburgh, Virginia, June

necessary to render the influence

more difficult. The proj)riety of an equal representation must occur to every one who does not wish to give an undue influence to some parts of the community This may be obtained in either of two ways, over others. by the number of freeholdei-s, or by the quantity of land countries that are rapidly increasing in population,

number of freeholders must be perpetually varying, the method by the number of acres must be the easiest and most permanent and as our lands become divided into more the

:

hands, every year will increase the perfection of this kind of representation, especially, too, if we put an end to propri-

and other monopolies of lands, those remains will always be incompatible with The freedom the spirit of equality and right Government. of election is necessary for tbe well-being of the laws and the liberties of the State, which would otlierwise fall a sacrifice to the altars of bribery and corruption and party spirit. etaries, entails,

of ancient tyranny, which

this end, the Representatives should be the unbiased choice of the people, by ballot, in which no man should make interest, either directly or indirectly, for himself or his friend, under the penalty of a heavy fine, and an exclusion

from the House of Representatives forever for it is generally found that the people will choose right if left to themTo check the aristocratick principle, which always selves. inclines to tyranny, it will be necessary to keep the Representatives dependant on the people by annual elections and perhaps it may be thought a further improvement to establish a limited kind of rotation, as a sure and certain

Fredericktown, June

Gentlemf.n

Tbe

:

of the State, or an arbitrary representative body may find means of, imposing partial temporary laws on the people, it will be expedient to erect a second legislative power, independent of the first, be dangerous

House of Representatives, consisting of a small number of the ablest men in the nation, whose right it shall be to have a negative on the lower House. These may consist of twelve, elected by a Committee of twenty-one in each County, chosen by the people for that purpose. This mode of election will obviate the inconveniences of a choice by the people at large, and remove the absurdity of leaving it to the House of Representatives ; for as they would be the

mere creatures of

that body, they

servient to their will

must necessarily be sub-

and pleasure.

A third power must

list

7,

1776.

of three companies

B. Johnson.

To

the Honourable the Council of Safety of

Maryland.

List of Companies.

James McKall Captain, Ralph Rusco First Lieutenant, Benjamin Thomas Second Lieutenant, Leonard Tunley Ensign.

George Poe Captain, Benjamin Eastburn First LieuteSecond Lieutenant, Theobald Jiilliake

nant, Elias Williake

Ensign.

Thomas Frazer Captain, Basil Beall First Lieutenant, John Frasher Second Lieutenant, Conrad Strieker Ensign.

COUNCIL OF MARYLAND. At

the Governour's, Friday,

June

7,

1776.

Present, His Excellency the Governour, and the Honourable Benedict Calvert, Daniel Dulany,

of

St.

Thomas

Jenifer,

fVilliam

John Ridout, Daniel

Hayward, P. Thomas

Lee, and Benjamin Ogle, Esquires. His Excellency was pleased to acquaint the Boafd, that he had called this meeting to inform them of his intention of very shortly leaving this Province and to request their attention to the form of Government (during the absence of the Governour from the Province) as prescribed by the act of Assembly of 1716. As this Board has never had before them, in their capacity ;

as Counsellors, the

several circumstances that at this time

oblige his Excellency to depart from the Province, he thinks right to lay before them the whole thereof, in the time and manner they occurred, with every part of his own conduct, it

unconnected with legislation, and independent of eitber of the two branches, whose business shall be wholly executive of the political This power should be lodged in one laws of the State. person only, for the advantage of despatch and execution of business, chosen out of the upper House of the Legislature by a majority of votes from the Committees, to be aided and assisted by the upper House in all cases of emergencies not sufficiently provided for by the laws. This office should be unconnected with the powers of legislation, for it is a solecism in politicks to invest the difl'erent powers of legislation and the execution of the laws in the same hands and as this power will be a trust of the first importance, and the most dangerous to liberty, it will be indispensably prudent to fill it up in rotation. To all these different departments of Government, as well as to all others, such moderate salaries ought to be affixed also be established,

as to place the sense of publick virtue higher in the estima-

people than the thirst of gain and lastly, an independent Court of Judicature should be established for

tion of the

a

am, gentlemen, your obedient servant,

I

to the safety

or

is

venient.

means of diffusing the Government into more hands, and training up a greater number of able statesmen. But as even under these restrictions an overgrown popu-

may

enclosed

which remain uncommissioned in my battalion. Captain MacTcaU's and Captain Poe's have been made up since the battalion was formed, and by the Committee appropriated to the Thirty-Fourth Battalion. Captain Frazer was First Lieutenant to Captain Lticketfs company. As Captain Luckett was removed by his appointment, they have made him Captain, and so have raised the whole of the officers, You will be pleased and made the First Sergeant Ensign. to have the commissions made out, and sent as soon as con-

;

;

and criminal matters, to whom every member in the State ought to be subject, even unto death. Such an arrangement of the powers of Government will erect different orders of men, who, like parties in the State, will mutually watch and restrain the partialities to which any particular party or interest may incline, and thus establish a Government which is most likely to inspire, preserve,

civil

1776.

JOHNSON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY.

B.

To

larity

7,

art

;

in

and exercise the virtues of its members, and enforce a strict obedience to the laws, which is the foundation of all political liberty and national felicity and thus, too, will all government be ultimately in the hands of the people, whose

legislative.

representation

of bribery and

but as

732

1776.

for their consideration

cessitated to leave this

;

and as they will see that he is neGovernment, and does not do it from

choice, (the alternative of continuing here being inadmishis Excellency therefore requests the Board to pro-

sible,)

by them, during tbe stoppage of trade, be paid him by the Agent, betwixt the President during his absence, and himself, as also the fees that may arise on the Great Seal and Marriage Licenses. His Excellency was pleased further to acquaint the Board, portion the salary

recommended

to

was made upon Chesapeake Bay, within the day of Government of Virginia, on or about the of some letters, directed to him from the Secretary of State in England, by a vessel fitted out at Hampton, commanded by one Barron, which letters were sent up from J'irginia that a seizure

,

and from thence to the Council of Safety, keeping them two or three days that his Excellency was informed of this seizure two days after it was made, and expected his letters to be sent up to the Council of Safety here, or to the Congress, but that he was under no apprehension of their containing anything to prejudice him, whatever official intelligence might be got from tliem. That on Ttcsday, the 16th of April last, Messrs. Carroll and Hall, from the Council of Safety, and Mr. Paca, of the Congress, waited on his Excellency with the letters that had been sent to them from the Baltimore Committee, who had them from Williamsburgh, consisting of copies of to Baltimore, after

;

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

733

he, JUNE,

1776.

734

intercepted lettcre of Lord George Gcrmainc's, to his Exone of tlie lOtli of Nove7u/)cr last, and two, botii

That the gentlemen rfiquested to see the copy of his Excellency's letter of the 27lh ui August, which lie could not

liie 23d o( Decern her ; one of which, seeming to disclose something of a confidential correspondence, was thought of so dangerous a nature that it ought to be cx])lained. The two Letters necessary to mention here, are as fol-

in, having sent all his letters and copies to the .September to England, and not kept any since. They then wished his Excellency to give his parole not to leave the Province until the Convention was to meet, which

lows, (Nos. 2 and 3.)

he declined, hut promised they should find him at home the next day at twelve o'clock; on which day he sent for the above-mentioned gentlemen, about eleven o'ckx;k. and was waited upon by C. Carroll, Es{[., Barrister, and W. I'aca, Esq., to whom he gave the following Letter:

cellency



of

[•'

["No.

Circular.]

Whitehall, December 23, 1775.

2.]

The King

" Sir;

being determined, in concurrence with Parliament, to pursue the most vigorous measures for reducing his rebellious subjects in North America to obedience, and for restoring loyal Government, has given the royal signature to the enclosed act, which I am commanded by his Majesty to transmit to you ; and at the same time to

you his Majesty's pleasure, that you do exhort all persons upon whom the execution of this law shall depend, to pay a due attention thereto, and to use their best endeavours for carrying the provisions of it into effect and I

signify to

;

when

trust that

his

Majesty's deluded subjects

in

the afore-

said Colonies are better apprized of the fatal consequence

of the conduct they have adopted, and see the determined spirit of the nation to maintain its constitutional rights, they will avail themselves of the means which the justice and benevolence of the supreme legislature have held out to them, of being restored to the King's grace and peace, and that a happy and lasting reconciliation and union will be

gratify

them

end of

last

[•'

No.

Annapolis, April 17, 1776.

4.]

Gentlemen

"

However unwelcome might he your

:

me

rand, your polite behaviour to

my

yesterday merits

er-

ac-

knowledgments and on mature consideration of the proposal you made to me, I find it is incumbent on me to tell you that 1 will not accord to it nor can I, whilst I act in any degree as Governour of this Province, give my parole to walk about in it a jirisoner at large, under any obligation whatever: the necessity must be obvious of my ceasing to act as Governour, should I become a prisoner. "Neither will I, voluntarily, give you any satisfaction on that head, furdier than that I had, and have no intention, ;

:

during these times, of leaving the Province, whilst tinuing here can, in

my own

lity.

My

show,

to continue here whilst

opinion, preser\'e

its

my

con-

tranquil-

you have of mine could serve the Province;

resolution was, as the letters I

order to accelerate this desirable object, the proper steps

nor shall the indignity now offered me alter it. " I shall persevere in my line of duty, by what I think but not without some chagrin at knowing the rule of right

have been taken

myself, unmeritedly the object of suspicion, although

effected.

"

And

have the

I

satisfaction to acquaint

that,

in

passing a commission under the great

for

conformity to the

seal, in

you

last section

but one of that act,

and that a Commissioner or Commissioners, to be appointed for that purpose, will have full power to inquire into the state and condition of all the Colonies, and to confer with proper persons upon such points as may be necessary for effecting a restoration of the publick tranquillity. " I am, sir, your most obedient humble servant, "

"

George Germaine.

To Robert Eden, Esq., Deputy-Governour o[ Maryland." "

A

"

True copy

No.

["

true

copy "J. Pendleton, C. C. Safety for Virginia. :

G. Duvall, Clerk."

:

Whitehall, December 23, 1775.

3.]

" Sir

It

:

despatch

to

was not till the 27th of November that your Lord Dartmouth, of the 27th of August, was

when

had the honour of laying it before the in command from his Majesty to exapprobation of your zeal for the publick service, and of the unalterable attachment you have shown to his person and Government, from the first commencement of the present unhappy disputes, which have received here,

King.

And

press to

you

I

have

I

it

his Majesty's

involved his Majesty's faithful servants in the Colonies in difficulties and distress that are only to be equalled by the

which they are borne.

fortitude with

" Your

letter contains

a great deal of very useful information, and your confidential communication of the characters of individuals, more especially of such as come over into Etigland, is of great advantage and you may rest as;

sured that every possible precaution will be used that no part of your letter shall transpire. " An armament, consisting of seven regiments and a fleet of frigates and small ships, is now in readiness to proceed to the Southern Colonies, in order to attempt the re-

Government in that part of America. It first place, to North-Carolina, and from thence either to South- Carolina or Virginia, as circumstances of greater or less advantage shall point out if to

storation of legal

will proceed, in the

:

the

latter,

it

may have

very important consequences to the

Colony under your government, and therefore you will do well to consider of every measure by which you may, in conjunction with Lord Dunmore, give facility and assistance to

its

"

"

I

operations.

am,

sir,

your most obedient servant, " George Germaine.

To Robert Eden, "

Esq., Deputy-Governour of Maryland."

Copy " J.

;

C. C. Safety for Virginia."

me

opinion of

have

than

to

is

be inferred from your proposed

arrest.

"

May

not challenge you to say to the world

I

troops have arrived

ceeded

in,

"

my

I

have above

me,

any

any request of mine,

to the Secretary of State

you

told

if

or any hostile measures been pro-

at,

against this Province, from

or information from

my

?

resolution of continuing in

station as long as permitted, or the ostensible form of

Government can contribute to preserve the peace of the Province and I will add one further assurance, in hopes it may be satisfactory to you, that as your Convention is to meet shordy, they shall find me here, and willing to continue acting in the same line I have hitherto done, so long as Maryland can reap any peaceful benefit from my service, provided I can have assurances that my peaceable the established

;

departure shall not be impeded whenever I find my remaining any longer here unnecessary, or that my private affairs at home indispensably demand my return. " Consistent with my honour and insulted station, I cannot add more, but that,

if

made

a prisoner, I shall consider

myself treated as an enemy, and such a proceeding as a breach of that confidence I have implicitly reposed in you, which I thought my conduct and the pubhck declaration of the Convention justified. " I am, gendemen, with respect, your obedient humble ^^-^^nt'

"

To

"Robert Eden.

Charles Can-oil, Barrister, John Hall, and

William

Paca, Esqs." His Excellency was promised an answer to the above nest day. On the 18th day o( April, in the morning, one of the Baltimore privateer boats boarded his Excellency's, which letter the

was going out to call back a gendeman's vessel just sailed from hence, which they also took, and detained them both. IMr. Samuel Smith, of Baltimore, who was with the troops in the Baltimore boat, came on shore, and went to C. Carroll, Esq., Barrister, with Mr. Nicholson, the Captain of her when Mr. Smith produced Mr. S. Purviance's order for seizing his Excellency, and Mr. Robert Smith,, and their papers, as also his Excellency's boat, and to carry them all to Baltimore ; the boat was set at liberty that eveThe same evening his Excellency received an anninh romick. Resolved, That the above Recantations be published the English and German newspapers. An extract from the Minutes of the Committee:

RoBEKT Traill,

in

Clerk.

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read June 14, 1776.] Head-Quarters,

New- York, June

13, 1776.

Sir I have the honour of transmitting to Congress a letter which came by express last night from General Schuyler, enclosing the copy of a letter to him from Colonel Kirkland. I have likewise enclosed the copy of one directed to :

General Putnam, or the commanding officer at JS'eiv-York. The representations contained in these letters have induced me, without waiting the determination of Congress, to direct General Schuyler immediately to commence a treaty with the Six Nations, and to engage them in our interest, upon the best terms he and his colleagues in commission can procure; and

1

trust the

urgency of the occasion

will justify

my

The necessity for decision proceeding to the Congress. and despatch in all our measures, in my opinion, becomes every day more and more apparent. The express, Mr. Bennett, was overtaken at Albany by who had received intelligence at Fort George that a considerable body of Mohawk Indians were coming down the Mohawk River, under the conduct of Sir John Johnson. The General's extreme hurry would not allow him to write but it seems his intention is to collect I at Albany a sufficient force to oppose Sir John Johnson. have given him my opinion that Colonel Dayton's Regiment should be employed in that service, and to secure the post where Fort Stamcix formerly stood. General Schuyler,

;

In consequence of an information that several merchants were exporting salted pork and beef from this place, I requested the Commissary to make application to the Provincial

&c.,

JUNE,

1776.

838

has been directed to continue supplies of provisions. repeat the direction, and doubt not of his exertions

1

shall

in this

If its arrival al Albany caanitd for a time, it might be owing to the accounts received that a good deal (particularly flour) might be had in Canada. I will speak to him about the expenditure of pork here, and request that no more be used than he may find necessary, that there may be a larger quantity for the Canada Department. I will also speak to the Quartermaster-General to provide and forw ard

instance.

the clothing he can get as soon as possible. As to intrenching tools, they are extremely scarce, and what we have far too few for the works carrying on, and proper to be carried on, for the defence of this place. However, I will all

you with a few more, and wish your endeavours to purchase what you can from the country people. Many of them, perhaps, will part with a spade or pick-axe,

try to furnish

and some with both and though many may not be collected in that way, what are will be of great service. ;

If the accounts of Colonel Bedel and Mzjor Butterfeld's conduct be true, they have certainly acted a part deserving of the most exemplary notice. I hope you will take proper measures, and have good Courts appointed to bring them, and other every officer that has been or shall be guilty of malconduct, to trial, that they may be punished according to their offences. Our misfortunes at the Cedars were occasioned, as it is said, entirely by their base and cowardly behaviour, and cannot be ascribed to any other cause. In my letter of the 7th, which w ill have reached you ere this, I enclosed a resolve of Congress for engaging the Indians (not more than two thousand) in our service. This will indicate to you their opinion and knowing their sentiments fully upon this head, I cannot but advise that you forthwith hold a conference with the Six Nations, and any others you, with your brother Commissioners, may think necessary, and form with them an alliance, on such terms and conditions as shall seem most likely to secure their interest ;

and

friendship, without waiting the further direction of

gress



Con-

the situation of our affairs will not suffer the delay

I am persuaded your conduct, and the speech you intend to deliver their sachems, will meet their approbation and thanks. I think that part of it which mentions the time and place of our taking post, might be omitted but this I leave to you. 1 shall inform Congress of what I have writ-

and

;

Congress

be laid on the exapprehended not only that the enemy might receive supplies by the capture of our vessels, but that our people might shortly experience a scarcity. The Provincial Congress have accordingly made a resolution (a copy of which is enclosed) to stop the exportation for fourteen days. They expect Congress will, in the mean time, frame some general regulations on this head. They are unfor a restraining resolution to

portation of those articles, as

1

willing, they say, to subject their constituents to partial restraint.

I once mentioned to Congress that I thought a War Office extremely necessary, and they seemed inclined to institute one for our Army but the affair seems to have since been Give me leave again to insist on the utility and dropped. importance of such an establishment. The more 1 reflect upon the subject, the more I am convinced of its necessity, and that affairs can never be properly conducted without it. It is with pleasure I receive the resolve enclosed in your One considerable ground of favour of the llth instant. dissatisfaction in the Army is thereby removed. I have employed persons in building the gondolas and rafts, which the Congress thought necessary for the defence of this place and in conjunction with the Provincial Congress have determined to sink chevaux-de-frise, one of which is already begun. I am, with the utmost respect and esteem, sir, your most obedient servant, „ „. ;

;

(jeorge Washington.

To

the

Hon. John Hancock, he.

general WASHINGTON TO GENERAL SCHUVLER. New- York, June

Dear

Sir: I favour of the 8th

13, 1776.

night received by Mr. Bennett yom instant, addressed to General Putnam, or

last

the officer commanding here, covering one for Cono-ress, with a copy of Colonel Kirkland's to you both of which I shall immediately forward to Philadelphia. In consequence of your former letters the Commissary ;

you on this subject, and of the verbal intelligence you sent me by Bennett from Albany, where you overtook him, respecting the Indians coming down the Mohawk River under Sir John Johnson, and of your preparing to resist them. I sincerely wish you success, and that their first incursions and attempts against us may be attended with their entire defeat. It will be necessary to employ Colonel Dayton and his regiment on this service, and in securing a post where Fort Stamv\x formerly stood, which I esteem of much imten

portance but I submit it to you, who are much better acquainted with that country than I am, whether, previous to that, it will not be necessary and essential that a post be ;

the



down somewhere about the Falls below German Flats to secure our communication with that

established lower garrison.



Should

this

not be done, will

it

not be in the

ppwer of the savages to come between that and our frontiers, and intercept all supplies of men and provisions going thither

?

observe you esteem the ground opposite to Ticonderoga to be more advantageous for a post against the enemy. Messrs. Chase and Carroll had told me the same. I should 1

most capable of defence, and having the greatest advantages, should be improved, and necessary works thrown up with the utmost despatch. But will not both be best ? Cannot Ticonderoga be kept, and this improved and maintained at the same time ? I must submit this to you, and refer you to my letter of the 9th, on the subject of fortifying all the posts, and about the Engineei-s. If you know of any persons who can be of service in that way, do employ them. I know of none myself, nor have 1 one that I can possibly spare. I have been applied to by Colonel JSicolson, who says he was appointed by Congress to the command of a regiment to be raised out of two battalions of York troops that

think, therefore, that the place

Canada last year, for instructions for that purpose. concerns the department more immediately iinder and with which you must be much better acyour quainted than I am, 1 did not think it right to give him any

were

As

in

this

direction,

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

839 direction about

it

;

but

if

the fact

so, 1 desire that

is

you

will

views of Congress may be In hke carried into execution, as you judge necessary. manner I have had several applications from officers coming from the Canada Department, for pay that became due them, give him such orders, that

tlie

comply with,

fee,

Such was the

JUNE,

840

1776.

husband, the father,

talc of war, that then the

was led a wounded ca])tive into the regions of despotism, where he has been inmiured near half a year, a patriot soldier,

waiting for that freedom which, success of your arms

may

it

fervently wished, the

is

obtain, both

for

him and

his

did not conceive myself at liberty to being ignorant of their appointments or service and as they will perliaps apply to you for certificates to lay before me, I

country.

wish you to be very explicit as to the time of their being office, and from which their pay is due.

applying to your Excellency for the monthly payment of seven pounds, Neiv- York currenc)^ which her husband, before his departure, had allowed her out of his pay, but

which

I

;

I

To

am

yours,

SjJicer

Park Avery,

Captain, Jonathan Palmer First Lieutenant, Second Lieutenant, Edward Jeffery

Junior,

Ensign, of the Fifth

Company

in said Battalion.

Joshua Huntington Captain, Ezckid Waterman First Lieutenant, John HTieatly Second Lieutenant, Charles Fanning Ensign, of the Sixth Company in said Battalion. Elijah Bingham Captain, Elisha Wade First Lieutenant, William Raymond Second Lieutenant, Daniel Bill Ensign, of the Sevendi Company in said Battalion. Elisha Chapman Captain, John Hart First Lieutenant, Job Wright Second Lieutenant, Nathaniel Jones, 3\.m., Ensign, of the Eighth Company in said Battalion.

874

Fifth Battalion.

William Douglas, Esq., to be Colonel, James Am/jld, Esq., Lieutenant-Colonel, Phincas Parker, Esq., Major, of the Fifth JJattalion.

Nathaniel Johnson Captain, Nathan Parsons. First

Fjieu-

Ambrose Hint Second Lieutenant, Charles Norton Ensign, of the First Company in said liattalioii. Edward Russell Captain, Samuel Baldwin First Lieutenant, Stephen Patten Second Lieutenant, Joseph Shaylor Ensign, of the Second Com|)any in said Battalion. tenant,

Robert Brown Captain, Peter Johnson First Lieutenant, Joseph Mansfield Second Lieutenant, Samuel Newton Ensign, of the Third Company in said Battalion. Noah Ives Captain, Jared Robinson First Lieutenant, Jared Hill Second Lieutenant, John Mansfield Ensicn, of the Fourth Company in said Battalion. Samuel Peck, Jun., Captain, Jehiel Bryant First LieuJesse Goodyear Second Lieutenant. Titus Peck Ensign, of the Fifth Company in said Battalion. John Lewis, Junior, Captain, James Warner First Lieutenant, Michael Branson Second Lieutenant, and Joseph Beach, Jun., Ensign, of the Sixth Company in said Battenant,

talion.

Nathaniel Bunncl Captain, Hawkins Hart, First LieuThomas Lyman Second Lieutenant, Miles Hull, Ensign, of the Seventh Company in said Battalion. Cornelius Higgins Captain, James Arnold First Lieutenant, Amos Beechcr Second Lieutenant, Samuel Scovil Ensign, of the Eighth Company in said Battalion. tenant,

Sixth Battalion.

John

Chester, Esq., to be Colonel,

Solomon Wills, Esq., Lieutenant-Colonel, John Ripley, Esq., Major, of the Sixth Battalion. Israel Seymour Captain, John Barnard Fii-st Lieutenant, Samuel Mattox Second Lieutenant, Joseph BuJice Ensign,

of the First

Company

in said Battalion.

Hezekiah Wyllys Captain, John Hurlburt First LieuteSecond Lieutenant, Andrew Hilyer Ensign, of the Second Company in said Battalion.

nant, Joseph Skinner

Edward Bulkley

Chester Wells Captain, nant,

First Lieute-

Benjamin Talmagc Second Lieutenant, James Hiccox

Ensign, of the Third Company in said Battalion. Benjamin Clark Captain, Javies Tyler Firet Lieutenant,

Samuel Marcy, Jun., Second Lieutenant, Daniel KiwvAton Ensign, of the Fourth Company in said Battalion. Stephen Lyon Captain, Josiah Childs First Lieutenant, John Kimball Second Lieutenant, Richard Peabody Ensign, of the Fifth

Company

in said

'

Battalion.

Asa Bacon Captain, Abner Bacon First Lieutenant, Amaziah Rust Second Lieutenant, Aaron Cleavcland Ensign, of the Sixth Company in said Battalion. Samuel Thomas Captain, Gershom Barrows First Lieu tenant,

Daniel

Dunham Second Lieutenant, Ebenezer SesCompany in said Battalion.

sions Ensign, of the Seventh

John Isham, Jim., Captain, Eliphelet Chamberlin First Asaph Trumbull Second Lieutenant, Joshua

Lieutenant,

Ransom

Ensign, of the Eighth

Whereas

Company

in said Battalion.

the General Assembly, holden at Hartford in

May last, did appoint John Blackleach to be First Lieutenant and William Hawley to be Second Lieutenant, of the Company of which Elijah Abel is Captain, in the Regiment ordered to be raised for the defence of this and the adjoining Colonies which is found to be inconvenient Resolved by this Assembly, That the said act of the General Assembl)' in May last, as far as respects the appointAnd ments aforesaid, be, and the same is hereby repealed. this Assembly do appoint Tfllliam Hawley to be First Lieutenant and John Blackleach to be Second Lieutenant of the aforesaid Company, under the command of the said Captain Elijah Abel, anything in said act contained notwithstand;

ing.

Whereas tliis Assembly, at their present session, passed an act appointing Nathaniel Pomcroy. Jun., a First Lieutenant in Captain John Harmon's Company, in Colonel John Douglas's Regiment

and whereas this .\ssembly, at Hartford, in May last, appointed Thomas Abbe a First Lieutenant in Captain Abel Pease's Company, in Colonel IVaterbury's Regiment and as the exchanging the arrangement of said officere would be greatly ;

their session held at

;

-

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, JUNE,

875

advantage of the publick service, viz to appoint the Pomcroy, Jun., to be a First Lieutenant in Ca])tain Pease s Company, and the said Tliomas Abbe to be a First Lieutenant in Captain Ilai-maris Company, Be it enacted by the Governoitr, Council, and Representatives, in General Court assembled, and by the authority of to the

" In the I>ower

:

That the

aforesaid acts referred to, repealing the

appointment of the said Pomeroy and Abbe to be Lieutenants, be repealed, and the same is hereby repealed accordingly. Whereupon this Assembly do appoint Thomas Abbe, of Enfield, to be a First Lieutenant in Captain John Harmon's Company, in Colonel John Douglas's Regiment. This Assembly do appoint j\athanicl Pomeroy, Jun., of Sufiicld, to be a First Lieutenant in Abel Pease's Company, in Colonel Waterbury's Regiment.

"Jonathan Tkumbull, Esq., Govemour of Connecticut

the

Colony of

:

"To

Greeting: do hereby authorize and empower you, at beat of drum or otherwise, to raise, by voluntary inlistment, a Company of ninety -three able-bodied eflective men, including officers, to join the Continental Army in Canada, to be holden in said service until the 1st day o[ December next, according to an act of the General Assembly of this Colony, at their special session on the 14th day of June, A. D. 1776 and you will publish the proclamation herewith committed to you in that behalf, for the encouragement of those who are inclined to inlist; and the Colonels in the several Regiments in this Colony, and the commanding officers of the Companies in those Regiments, are hereby required to lend you their aid, and muster the Companies under their command, if need be, "

,

1

;

purposes aforesaid."

for the

" In the is

Lower House

" Concurred " Test "

the above form of Beating Orders

accepted and approved. " Test in the

Titus Hosmer,

Upper House. George Wyllys,

the Colony

of

Greeting: I do hereby authorize and empower you, at beat of drum or otherwise, to raise, by voluntary inlistment, a Company, ,

men, incluand near JVewthe 25th day of

consisting of ninety-three able-bodied effective officers, to join

York,

the Continental

to be holden

December next,

Army

in

in said service until

unless sooner discharged, according to an

Assembly of this Colony, made and passed at their special session on the 14th June, 1776; and you will publish the resolve of Assembly herewith conmiitted to you in that behalf, for the encouragement of those act of the General

who

and the Colonels of the several RegiColony, and the commanding officers of the those Regiments, are hereby required to lend and muster their Companies under their com-

incline to inlist

ments

in this

Companies in you their aid, mand, if need

;

this draft

"Test:

is

accepted and approved.

Titus Hosmer,

" Concurred " Test

in

"

of

the

Upper House. George Wyllys,

accepted and approved.

the

in

Upper House. George Wyllys,

C/erfr.

Secretary."

Resolved by this Assembly, That the form for Chaplains be as follows

Warrants

for

"

Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Govemour and Commanderin-Chief of the English Colony of Connecticut, in New-England, in America:

"

To Rev

Greeting

,

" Reposing special trust and confidence in your piety,

and good conduct, I do hereby appoint you, a Chaplain of the .... Regiment; and do hereby authorize and empovrer you to exercise the several acts and duties of your office and station as Chaplain of the said Regiment, which you are faithfully to perform, in a due and religious discharge thereof, according to the important trust reposed in you for which this is your ability, fidelity,

the said

,

;

warrant. " Given under aforesaid, this

my hand

....

Resolved by

this

and day o(

Colony,

.

.

.

the

in the forces

now

raising in this

defence of the same, be as follows, viz

for

Colony

A. D. 1776."

,

Assembly, That the form for Warrants

Physicians and Surgeons

for

seal at arms, in

.

:

"

Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Govemour and Commanderin-Chief of the English Colony of Connecticut, in New-England, in America:

"

To "

,

Gentleman, greeting

do by these presents, reposing special confidence in your fidelity, skill, and good conduct, constitute and appoint you, the said to be Physician and Surgeon in the .... Regiment, now raised out of the Militia of this Colony, inlisted and assembled for the defence of this and the rest of the United Colonies and I do hereby authorize and empower you to exercise your said office, in a due discharge of the duties thereof, which you are carefully and I

,

diligently to attend as a physician as aforesaid, according to

warrant. " Given under said

Colony, the

my hand and seal ... day of .

.

.

at .

is

your

arms, at .

,

.

sufficient

.

.

.

,

in

^. D. 1776."

Assembly, That the Commissions of the and appointed by this Assembly at their session in May last, shall bear date on the 10th day of June, his Honour the Govemour and the Secretary and 1776; are desired and directed to sign the same, filled up accord-

Resolved by

this

Officers nominated

ingly.

Resolved by

this

Assembly, That the Commissions

for

the Ofiicers in the several Battalions ordered to be raised in

this

Colony

bear date the

at their present session, shall

20th day oi June, 1776 are desired and directed

and the Govemour and Secretary to sign and issue the same accord-

;

ingly.

be, for the purpose aforesaid."

" In the Lower House

" Concurred " Test

is

TiTus Hosmer,

the trust reposed in you; for Vk-hich this

"

ding

this draft

;

Secretary."

Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Govemour of Connecticut:

"To

Clerk.

House

876

"Test:

said ]\'aiha7iiel

the same,

1776.

Clerk.

Secretary."

Whereas

Assembly have ordered nine Battalions to Colony to join the Continental Army at Neiv-York and Canada; and as some of the Officers appointed in said Battalions may fail to accept the trust, and by death or otherwise vacancies may happen Resolved by this Assembly, That his Honour the Governour be desired, and he hereby is authorized and empowered, to appoint any Officer or Officers to fill up such vacancies that shall happen as aforesaid, and to commissionate the same accordingly. be raised

this

in

this

:

I

.

.

.

.

,

.

.

.

.

.

do acknowledge

to

have volun-

myself a soldier to serve in a Battalion of Foot, by the Colony of Connecticut, for the defence of the United Colonies, to be commanded by Esq., until the 1st day o( December next, according to the direc-

tarily inlisted

raised

,

tions of the Continental Congress.

" Witness

my hand,

this

.

.

.day of.

.

.

,^. D. 1776."

" In the

ment

is

Lower House, the foregoing form of an accepted and approved.

" Test

Titus Hosmer,

" Concurred

in the

"Test "

I

.

.

.

.

,

of

.

.

Upper House. George Wyllys, .

.

,

do acknowledge

Inlist-

Clerk.

Secretary." to

have volun-

myself a soldier to serve in a Battalion of Foot, Colony of Connecticut, to join the Continental Army in Yor/c, to be commanded by Esq., until the 25th day of December next. " Witness my hand, this .dayof. ,^.D. 1776." tarily inlisted

raised by the

Am-

,

.

.

,

.

Resolved by this Assembly, That his Honour the Governour be, and he is hereby authorized and desired, to appoint the Chaplains, Surgeons, and Surgeons' Mates for the several Regiments raised by order of this and the last sessions of this Assembly, where the same have not already been appointed by this Assembly.

Resolved by this Assembly, That his Honour the Governour be, and he is hereby authorized and desired, to appoint

Armourers Colony.

Whereas

for the

Regiments now

raising in

this

Assembly, to encourage and facilitate the! Troops to be raised in this Colony, on the of Congress, has ordered that each soldier shall this

inlistment of the requisitions

several

CONNECTICUT ASSEMBLY, JUNE,

877

month's pay before their march, Sic; and repiaciid in the Treasury Resolved by this Asscmhbj, That Colonc^is, or chief officers of eaci) Battalion, shall receive of the Paymasters of the Continental Army the first month's jiay of such soldiers, and, when received, pay the same into the Treasury of this Colony, first deducting out what shall be due to each inlisted soldier from the time of his inlistment until the day of his march; and what they shall so deduct shall be- by them paid into the hands of the Captains of the sev^

/fc

/^^ ^%'

/^^

^^ #i^^ M^ l^^^^^ ^^^ /^ f^iM^

iLw'

/d-i ^/^^^.

/^^ /^^

/^^CtC^

^^

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS.

905 season

when

raised the earths, or

I

its

not

ri.sinif

our

I

which closes the purchase made for you on my separate and I have therefore sent a copy of iny account current leaving a balance in my favour of nine hundred and forty-eight pounds ten shillings and nine pence, your money. If right, you will please to enter it accordingly, and credit what you receive in future, as already advised. 1 am, most respectfully, your obedient, humble servant,



account

I

fear

my

success

of many, but desire to serve

far short

is

it

is my could well send at this time 1 hope failure in quantity will as much as any concerned. not be attributed to any neglect in me. I shall advise from

is all

I

;

time to time of 1

am,

sirs,

my

Richard Harrison.

To

Maryland.

your very humble servant,

PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY TO GENERAL WASHINGTON.

the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland.

P. S. 1 have sent a small sample, which your Honours will have to compare with the productions of other Counties. 1 have now ready, and shall finish this week, fifty bayonets, and shall continue to make.

RICHARD HARRISON TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. St. Eustatia,

Gentlemen:

My

last

was of

June

lo, 1776.

the ]8th ultimo,

by Cap-

Calender, enclosing duplicates of the papers sent by the John, Captain Speake, who sailed the 14th, with six thousand pounds of powder and twenty-two barrels sulphur, tain

on your account, which

1

hope

is

now

safely landed with

you. By that opportunity I informed you of my having sis thousand more left, four thousand of which I took down with me to this place, expecting a readier conveyance for On my arrival, 1 found none but the it than from my own. brig Friendship,

on

the Honourable the Council of Safety of

success.

Amos Garrett.

To

;

;

1

called trood.

and

bill

now produce six or eight pounds per day, and have seventy, sixty, and hopes of more. I have three boilers which we use more or less every day. 1 have thirty gallons and fit sending made for away, this day, weighed what is hope will be and find I have seventy-five pounds, which



to add, that

plicates of the invoice

flat

shall

have only now

906

177C.

under cover you will find dubill of lading for the goods I of lading and invoice for tliirty-four ship|)ed by him, also casks powder, now shipped by tln^ Molly, Captain Conway,

so plenti-

clayey lands as in those more hilly and dry, I cannot tell, but cannot find the quantities contained in I think I the earths I have tried as has been published. fully in

JUNE,

k.c.,

which Mr. Vanhibher had

freight for Virginia.

In her

1

partly

engaged

determined to ship also

Committee of Safety,

In

Pliiladelphia,

June

15, 1776.

the enclosed resolution of Congress your Excellency will perceive there is an intention of erecting some works of defence at Billingsporf, on the river Delaware,

Sir

:

By

As they under the direction of the Committee of Safety. are extremely desirous of rendering that important post as strong as the nature of its situation will permit, a skilful Engineer shoidd be on the spot to view the ground, and Our

furnish suitable plans.

deficiencies in that respect puts

us under the necessity of applying to your Excellency to furnish us with a proper person for that purpose, and we

hope the situation of Neiv-York will not be such as to make improper to comply with our request. By order of the Board. 1 have the honour to be your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant, g^^^^_^ ^lyjier. Chairman. it

To

His Excellency General Washington.

;

but finding that I should be obliged to advance money for her out, and every other extra expense, besides insu-

PHILADELPHIA COUNTY COMjnTTEE.

fitting

concluded it would be more to your interest to purchase her, and receive ten per cent, on the goods I could procure on freight, especially as I could make the payment accordingly, I have agreed with Capso convenient to you tain Martin for her, at nine hundred pounds, Mfln/Zozw/ currency; have taken his bill of sale, and given him my two drafts of this date for four hundred and fifty pounds each, on you at ten days' sight, which you will please to iionour and pass to my debit, and at the same time credit me with This purchase, I flatter myself, cannot but be the vessel.

In Philadelphia County Committee, June 15, 1776.

ring her, I

;

agreeable to you. She is a fine new vessel, sails fast, and will be well fitted for another voyage, a cruise, or for sale,

you may judge proper.

The

you will have to and should you be so unfortunate as to lose her, the damage will be no more I have shipped than if 1 had chartered and insured her. for you, by this vessel, fourteen thousand one hundred pounds of powder, and twenty-three bales of Holland duck, (which is as much, and rather more, than the remainder of my money would purchase,) amounting to twenty -six hundred and seventy-four pounds seven shillings and four pence, your currency, which you will please to note in my account, invoice and bill of lading therefor being enclosed. With this a letter will be delivered you, signed by Mr. Vanhibher and myself, by which you will find we entered into a copartas

receive will

nershij)

amount

the inotives of

;

freight

to half the cost;

it

are therein sufficientlj' explained,

what we have done in consequence I shall not, therefore, dwell longer upon it in this place. I intended, by Captain Martin, to have furnished my account current with you, but the unexpected and agreeable intelligence of Captain Conwai/s arrival at St. Pierre will not permit me to stay and collect an account of the brig's disbursements. He got in on the 10th. 1 leave this tonight, and hope to see him in three days. Everything is ready, and I shall despatch him immediately, with a valuI am, fee. able cargo. N. B. Should Messrs. Jenifer and Hooc apply to you for any money on my account, I should be obliired by your furnishing them with as far as five hundred pounds.

also

;

Resolved, That

it

be,

and

it is

County

hereby,

recommended

to

have not chosen pereons to receive the Arms from the non-Associators, and also those that have chosen persons who neglect that duty, to meet on the 6th day o( July next, at some convenient place in their respective Townships, and choose three proper persons in each Township for that purpose, agreeably to a late Resolve of Assembly, and that the Township Committee-

Townships

the

in this

men (where such their respective

are chosen) are requested to advertise

Townships of the place and time of day

meet. Resolved, That

it

be recommended

County

the several Battalions of this the

that

Committee of Safety,

to

to the Colonels of

to give intelligence to

as soon as possible, of the state

and

condition of their Battalions with respect to their Fire-Arms

and Accoutrements. Extract from the Minutes

:

Enoch Edwards,

Secretary.

BERKS COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) COJLMITTEE.

At

a meeting of the Standing

ty, the

Committee

for

Berks Coun-

15th oi June, 1776, ordered, that the following

Re-

Acknowledgments ol' John Ebeling, Matthias Rhodes, Jonathan Rhodes, and Henry

solve of this Committee, and the

Kvttncr, be published

in

German Papers. CoLLiNSON Read, Secretary.

the English and

Whereas the honourable the Continental Congress have recommended it to the several Assemblies, Conventions, Councils, and Committees of Safety of the several United Colonies, to cause all persons to be disarmed within their respective Colonies who are notoriously disalfected to the

who have not associated and refuse defence of these Colonies by arms against the hostile attempts of the British fleets and armies, and that such of die said Arms as are fit for use, or which can be made so, be appraised, as by the said recommendation of the Congress is directed in pureuance where-

cause of America, or to

associate for the

;

Martinique, July 9, 1776.

Sirs The preceding is a copy of what I had the pleasure of writing you from St. Eustatia, per Captain John Martin; :

of the Assembly of this Province have resolved that three freemen shall be chosen by the inhabitants of every Township in the Province, who shall meet those chosen by the

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

907 two adjoining Townships, affectud

to collect the

Arms

fion) the dis-

persons and non-Associators aforesaid; and have

Committees of Inspection and ObCounty shall take care that the said

further directed that the

servation in each

recommendation of Congress he effectually put in execution And whereas some people in Berks County, in contempt of the said authority, have refused to deliver uj) tlieir Arms to the said collectors, and put the Committee to the disagreethis able necessity of taking proper notice of their conduct :

;



entreat

and

in

case of their neglect or refusal to do their

duty, will take such notice of them, and such further measures as will answer the intention of the said resolves.

Whereas it hath been proved before the Committee of Berks County that we, the subscribers, have been guilty of spreading a report that the Officers of the Milita Company of Colehrookdah Township, in the said County, had sold their men to the Colonel of the battalion to which they belong We do hereby acknowledge our misconduct, and beg pardon of the Officers of the said company for spreading the said report, and do promise for the future to conduct ourselves so as to give no offence to the said company or any other of the Associators of this County. Witness our hands Matthias Roth, :

Jonathan Roth. June

1776.

1.'5,

to sully the reputation

acquired on

all

former

new proof to the publick of your as men of your unalterable attach-

but to give a

of danger, the arguments that might be used are innumera-

and as some of them are of the most urgent, so (blessed he God) others are of the most encouraging and animating ble

;

nent.

;

908

1776.

ment to the liberties o( America, and the sincerity of your unanimous resolutions from the beginning of this contest. Were there time to draw up a long discourse in this hour

kind.

aforesaid

;

courage and intrepidity

given, as well to the said disaffected per-

is

you not

occasions

sons and non-Associators as to the said collectors in this County, that the Committee will afford all the assistance in their power to the said collectors in procuring the Arms

publick notice

he, JUNE,

The

danger It

is

not only certain, but immediate and immi-

does not admit of a moment's delay, for our unjust

and im])lacable enemy is at hand. The place where the not only a city attack is expected is of the last importance of great extent, the interest of whose numerous inhabitants must be exceedingly dear to us, but situated in the middle of the Colonies, and where the success of the enemy would separate the Provinces, and disunite their efforts by land, which are of necessity liable to interruption from the enemy's It is scarce worth while to add, that this Profleet by sea. vince, by its vicinity, would then be exposed to the cruel depredations of the enemy, who, happily, hitherto have been able to do us little or no mischief but by theft and rapine. It would seem to carry an unjust suspicion of you to say any more on our own private interest, as we hope every honest man is chiefly concerned for, and will strain every nerve in support of the common cause of the United Co-



lonies.

We

cannot help putting you in mind how signally AlGod has prospered us hitherto, and crowned our The expulsion of the enemy virtuous efforts with success. from Boston, where they first took possession, and begun their oppressive measures, was an event as disgraceful to them as it was advantageous to the publick cause, and honourable to that brave and resolute army by which it was accomplished. It will certainly be no small encouragement to those who shall nov/ proceed to the place of danger, that they shall join with many of the same soldiers who have gained immortal honour by their past conduct, as well as serve under that wise and able leader whose prudence, firmness and attention to his great charge, have procured him the most unlimited confidence, both of those who direct the publick counsels and of those who are in arms under

mighty

Whereas

I,

the subscriber, have greatly abused the per-

sons appointed to collect the

Arms

of the non-Associators

Township of Bern, in Berks County, for which confined by the Committee of the said County

was do therefore beg pardon of the publick for my misconduct, and promise to behave myself for the future so as to give no in the

justly

I

;

I

offence to the publick, or opposition to the measures of the

Congress, Assemblies, or Committees, acting by their authority.

Witness June

my

Whereas

who

hand

Henry Kettner.

:

15, 1776. I,

the subscriber, have declared that no person

King ought be permitted to hold any office in the Militia, and that Henry Chreist and Baltzer Geehr, Esquires, were unfit persons to be Colonels for that reason and whereas I am now convinced that if such an opinion should prevail it would occasion the removal of many worthy officers who have taken hath taken the oaths of allegiance to the

to

;

the said oaths before the saine were dispensed with by the

honourable Congress, and promote great disturbances among the Associators I do therefore hereby declare that I look :

upon the

said opinion as unjustifiable and wrong, and beg pardon of Colonel Geehr for the disturbance my declaring the same hath produced in his battalion and I do engage for the future not to mention the same, or any other matter ;

which may tend to the disturbance of the Associators, or other persons engaged in the support of the publick measures necessary at this time.

Witness June

my hand

John Ebeling.

15, 1776.

command.

his

We

must not forget the activity and success of the inhaThey ran to arms in of the Southern Colonies. thousands the moment they heard of an attack, both in God was pleased, in both Virginia and JSorth- Carolina. cases, to reward their alacrity, for they obtained a complete bitants

victory over their enemies, with so

;

hfe.

Time

does not permit us to enlarge on the past events of war, in which the kindness of Providence is so clearly therefore only further observe, that by the to be seen. preparations in Britain for this campaign, and by all the intelligence received from Europe, it is plain that not honour and advantage only, but absolute necessity, requires us to this

We

Every one is all is at stake. what many saw long ago, that entire and unconditional submission is the point to which our enemies are determined to bring us, if in tlieir power so

now

Countrymen and Friends: This Province has been requested by the Continental Congress to send, without dethousand three hundred men to consequence of authentick information that

lay, from their Militia, three \n

the grand attack of our

common enemy

this

summer, which

probably prove the decisive campaign, is to be upon and that their force may be expected there in a few days. Your Representatives in this Congress have, with all the despatch in their power, and with the utmost unanimity, prepared an ordinance for raising the number called for, as equally from the different parts of the Province as possible. They have determined to raise the men by voluntary inlistment in the several Counties, in full confidence that in this way they will be raised most speedily, as well as consist of persons of the greatest spirit and alacrity for the important service. Filled with the same zeal for the defence of their country, they apply to you by this short Address, and in the most earnest and affectionate manner

will

that city

;

of blood, as was At the battle

of Moore's Creek Bridge, there w ere hut a few men killed and at Norfolk, Great-Bridge, we did not loose a single

exert our utmost efforts, for

ADDRESS TO THE INHABITANTS OF NEW-JERSEY.

New-York,

little loss

not barely wonderful, but scarcely credible.

obliged to confess

;

that nothing remains for us

but either the abject slavery of

and liberties by and hand down the fair inheritance to our |)osterity by a brave and determined defence. We desire and expect that, in such a situation of things, all particular difference of small moment, arising from whatwhether religious denominations, rivalship of ever cause different classes of men, scarcity of some articles of commerce, or any other may be entirely laid aside. The present Let every enemy danger requires ihi! most perfect union. tributary States, or to maintain our rights

force of arms,





perceive that the Representatives of the Colonies, as soon as they determine upon any measure, are able to bring out the whole strength of this vast country to carry

it

into exe-

cution.

That you may be under no apprehension, either of inown coasts will be left

equality in the burden, or that our

unguarded by the destination of

this

brigade,

we have

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, JUNE,

909

1776.

910

timught it best to inform you tiiat tlin Continontal Congress have amply provided (or the defence of this I'rovineo, and iiavc made sucii an arrangement of the Continental Army for the ensuing campaign, as lays an equal burden on the inhabitants of the diflerent Colonies in particular, that a flying camp of ten thousand men is now forming for the protection of the middle Colonies, which, we are credibly

some means

We informed, is to have its chief station in this Province. add no more, but that we trust and hope that while every Province is making the most spirited elibrts, Is'eiv-Jcrsey, in its place and duty, will bo second to none. Signed in name, and by appointment of Congress, at Burlington, June 15, 1776.

be pursued. But if there is anything particular in the capture you mention which is not provided for, it will be proper that it should be forwarded me, in order to my referring it to Congress for their opinion. It is likely the Memorial you mention, if presented, has already occasioned them to determine upon the n)atter. If they have not, and I find it necessary, 1 shall transmit them such a representation of the circumstances of this capture as you may send me, not intending to point out any rule of decision not authorized by Congress.

;

Samuel Tucker,

President.

NEW-YORK CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. In Provincial Congress,

Sir:

New- York, June

The Congress acknowledge

l.'J,

I

To

were

you esteem

my

not, nor

answer

am,

yours, &,c.,

sir,

the live stock in certain parts of the

Colony

the benefit

for

copy of some information obtained from Mr. Abraham Livingston, of a stock of cattle in an exposed situation in New-Jersey, of which a copy will be forwarded to the President oi JSeu)- Jersey Congress, or Committee of is

a

Safety. 1

have the honour

humble

By

to be,

most respectfully,

your very

sir,

servant.

Nathaniel Woodhull,

order:

President.

It

again with the material.

,,,

George Washincttok.

general SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Albany, June 15, 1776.

Dear General: By Captain Goforth, who arrived this morning, I am honoured with your Excellency's favour of the 9th instant, and by

The

of the Army.

Enclosed

me

them

^,

^

resolution of yesterday, a

;

can they be found. to

Joshua Wentworlh, Esq., Portsmouth.

vour of the 13th instant, respecting the retention of salted provisions by some persons on Long-Island. I am directed by the Congress to inform you that, by a

copy whereof was furnished to the Commissary-General, they depend that he will obtain the provisions desired and that the Congress have in contemplation some more general and effectual measures for securing

if

I have, agreeable to your refjuost, transmitted you copies of such resolves of Congress respecting your department as are in my hands. They will point out the line of conduct to be observed in general cases, which, I apprehend, must

1776.

the receipt of your fa-

or other

will bo, therefore, necessary to ac(|uaint

contents,

to it

i\Ir.

Watts with that of the 10th.

resolutions of Congress for a further supply of

money

be sent here, I received on the last ultimo, and despatched by express to Canada, together with the other resolutions

were transmitted me by the same conveyance. that your Excellency approves of my conduct in leaving Colonel Dayton in Tryon County. It is more than probable, from the intelligence I have sent your Excellency in my several letters since my return to this that 1

am happy

place, that he will, of necessity, remain in that quarter for

some time

To

His Excellency General Washington.

colonel McDOUGALL to general WASHINGTON. New-York, June

15, 1776.

Sir: All the necessaries for soldiers' clothing are so very high, and the pay of the Middle Department so much below the Eastern establishment, that my soldiers are kept bare of necessary clothing and other articles soldier's

currency, which levies

:

a

common

from seventeen to twenty shillings half a month's pay. The most of the

shirt costing

made

is

in great cities are

generally induced to enter the

service from the sole consideration of

pay they are thereuneasy when it is not punctually paid, and often insolent, which provokes to correction, and this to desertion at this crisis very injurious to the service and publick safety. There is now one month and a half pay due to my regiment. For these reasons I pray the General would order the regiment to be paid to the first current, which would advance the service and give ease and peace to the officei-s. 1 would, on this and other occasions, have made a personal application to the General, but judged this mode would be more agreeable to you, as it causes no interruption of business of more moment, and you could choose your time to determine on the subject. These reasons, I hope, will apologize for this and the other letters I have taken the liberty to write you on publiek business. 1 have applied to the Convention to know whether I am to continue to recruit any company of my regiment which ;

fore



may become incomplete by death or desertion but they would not decide upon it, and desired me to take the General's direction, which I beg to be favoured with. 1 have the honour to be your Excellency's very humble ;

servant,

To

, ,, t^ Alexander McDougall.

His Excellency General Washington.

at least, if not during the whole campaign. When I begged your Excellency for a reinforcement to keep up the communication, &,c., 1 think I observed that if any came up, and they were more than sufficient, I would forward on Vdn Schaick's. The exchanged prisoners arriving, I immediately sent Major Curtis, and four companies of Van Schaick's, to Caiiada, and have since ordered the prisoners back, agreeable to a request of General Sullivan, signified to me by Major Sherburne, and am now forwarding the provisions and garrisoning i^ort George and Ticonderoga with part of the remainder of Pan Schaick's, and four companies of Wynkoop's, two being in Tryon County, and two upon duty and in batteaus here. Part of what General Sullivan has informed your Excellency respecting Van Schaick's, Wynkoop's, the wagoners, batteaumen, and wagonmaster, is very true, and I doubt not but the whole of his information would have been so, had he been truly informed, which, I presume, nay, I am sure, he was not to evince which, I enter into a detail, because my feelings induce me to do justice to every man, whatever his station in life may be and when I censure and applaud, it is always fix)m the heart. The raising of Colonel Van Schaick's Regiment was, in ;

;

instance, left to the New-York Provincial ConThey requested me to take it in hand, and sent up the money Congress had advanced to them for that purpose.

the

first

gress.

Lest the service should suffer necessarily be occasioned by

b)'

my

the delay w hieh refusal, 1

would

applied to the

Committee of this County, and entreated them to recommend such persons out of the several districts as w ere most likely This was done, and I think the warrants for inlisting were granted on the 15th of February. And although I incorporated Curtis' s,* I\IcCracken's, and Mills's companies, to whom I had given inlisting orders in November last, for the winter service, yet the regiment is far from being complete, as your Excellency has seen by Colonel to raise the iBen speedil}'.

Van

since which several are deserted. General Sullivan was at Albany, Van Schaick's had left it, and was disposed of at the various posts, Regiment Hence they from Half-Moon to Croirn Point included. could not lurnish '• a man for guard, or any other duty." But 1 suppose General Sullivan was informed that Van Schaick's Regiment was there, because he was, as he is still,

Schaick's return

;

When

general WASHINGTON TO JOSHUA WENTWORTH. New- York, June

l.j,

1776.

Sir: I received yours of the 1st instant, and am to inform you your letters of the 1.5th and 22d oi April, advising of the capture of the brig Elizabeth, by Commodore Manly, were put into the hands of Mr. Moylan to answer ; but by

• Curtis succeeded.

is

promoted, .Mills dead, Van Sensselaer and ^fason have

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

911

I must have somebody here in my can depend on and it is only a piece of iiistice due to him, when I assure your Excellency that I believe the Army affords few better Colonels. The raising of IVijnlcoops Regiment I had nothing to do it was an aftliir deferred by Congress to the Conwith vention at New-York; and so little was I informed of what

.ind likely to remain, as

whom

absence,

I

;

;

they were doing, that your Excellency may recollect that you and I both conceived the few that were here belonged to Clinton's Regiment. As fast as they came up I employed them, and furnished such with arms as I could tind arms for, although that, too, was the business of the Convention. I cannot here, for want of my papere, determine the exact time when the two companies in Tryon County were furnished

with

However,

arms.

am

I

they were

certain

It is true that all

furnished as soon as they could be.

the

companies are very deficient in numbers, but none so low as When General Sullivan was at Albany, part eleven men. of O'Hara's company (which is, however, tlie completest in the regiment) was there, and amounted to the exact number of eleven. These were supposed to be a company the remainder being by your Excellency's, General Putnam s, ;

or the orders of the Convention, either at New-York or the Highlands; and they have so lately joined, as only to have

Lake George on the 4th or 5th instant. What General Sullivan says of tapping the pork

crossed

barrels

by the wagoners is undoubtedly a fact with respect to some of them but much of the ])ork comes up in so bad a condition that it is obliged to be pickled here, and hence the blame ought not, by any means, to be general, and lay on the wagoners that have carried up pork without pickle. As to the batteaumen, I believe I know when men work to advantage, as well as any man (excepting your Exceland 1 do, upon my honour, declare, lency) in the service that a better set of batteaumen I never knew than what were at Albany when General Sullivan was there, (except some of the troops who were emploj'ed as such,) and I have employed thousands of them, and can, consequently, speak But the fault did not lay with the batfrom experience. teaumen it lay with the troops that were marching up. The first regiment was ordered off at six o'clock in the morning their baggage did not come down till twelve at two, the officers complained that they could not find the batteaumen they were answered, " Here some of us are we have been here all day the rest are gone up to their dinner." I was present, reprimanded the officers, and afterwards meeting General Sullivan, I expressed my dissatisfac;

:

;

;

;

He

tion at the tardiness of the troops.

push them

off,

and,

1

suppose, the

immediately ran to excuse them-

officers, to

selves, faulted the batteaumen, as they did

when

I

was

there.

But, to cut the matter short, the batteaumen were obliged to make a trip to Half-Moon every day, and they did it, when the troops would permit them, which was not often the case, although they sometimes forced them back without suffering them to eat a mouthful, until the batteaumen (tired of the ill usage) all threatened to do what some actually leave the service and forfeit their wages, rather than to did be ill treated as they were. And nothing prevented it but my coming in the very moment when they were swinging and by promises to prevent such ill usage for their packs the future, I prevailed on them to stay. Nor were the wagoners that carried baggage treated one As soon as I can get to Fort George I will whit better. send your Excellency copies of my orders on the occasion, which, I think, were pointed, clear, and reasonable, and which, however, did not prevent a repetition of abuses; for Colonel Irvine and others, in direct defiance of those orders, which he saw at Albany, and which were shown him on the road by one of the Assistant Quarlermastei-s, took away the stationed wagoners from the portages, without provender



;

lor

to return

For

this

home

Nor could

those escape

to recruit their horses

conduct, which deranged

a total stop to transportation,

I

another officer under arrest, until with the wagoners.

who had

worn out

my

discharges

in the service.

and threatened put Colonel Irvine and the matters were setded affiiirs,

As to the wagonmaster, he is an industrious, active, and, an honest man. But it is not in his power, nor any man's whatsoever, to procure wagons at all times and at that lime it was peculiarly difficult, both on account of 1 believe,

;

1776.

912

the troops that preceded General Sullivan's Brigade.

But,

my

dear sir, nothing is more common than for some when they have neglected their duty, to impute it and I suppose, when General Sullivan reprimandofficers and spurred them on, which he certainly did,

officers,

to others

;

ed the they flew to that unjustifiable and ungenerous subterfuge. 1 am well aware, my dear General, of the truth of your observation, that men, uninfluenced by principles of honour and justice, will abuse their trust. From a full conviction of this truth, which it is necessary for every man in business

know, I have made it the invariable rule of my conduct watch every man's conduct with attention and by making the most of every moment I find time to do it too. I have already observed to your Excellency, in mine of the iOtii, that I had taken measures for forwarding flour; to

to

;

a sufficient quantity

As

for the

present

is,

I

hope, arrived.

Ticomleroga and Fort George, and opening the road by IVood Creek, it is utterly impossible with the men I have now left they are so fully employed in the batteaus, &c., that I do not believe there is now a relief Fori George for subaltern's at a guard. I have not a prospect of procuring an Engineer in this country. I have a relation, of a mathematical turn and very ingenious, but he wants activity; besides him, I know to fortifying

;

not another

in this quarter.

Your Excellency may depend upon it that no prisoners shall be sent by me by the way of New- York. Permit me to remind you that Dundee was ordered from Ulster County before

I

and that

received your Excellency's letter of the 21st ult., 1 took notice of it in mine in answer. I shall

write to every I

am

Committee agreeable to your orders. what jilace to send the prisoners

really at a loss to

County. Connecticut will be much burdened sixty at least are going there in a few days that were lately sent here from Tryon County and apprehended in this, and I expect a considerable number from Canada. I have already given your Excellency an account of the number of batteaus, and of their disposition. Your Excellency has great reason to be surprised that you have had no particular account of BedeVs affair, and you complain with the highest justice of not receiving returns, which are certainly essentially necessary. As to the first, I have not had a line upon the subject from any person whatsoever in Canada, nor have I seen any account of it other than that in the letter from the Commissionere, which was left open for my perusal, and which I left open for your Excellency, if you should have returned \o New- York by and your Excellency may the time it reached that place be assured that, as I have never yet neglected to give you copies of any letters of the least consequence that were sent to me, I shall not now begin to be guilty of such an improper conduct and I give you my honour that I have had intelligence from Canada conveyed to me by the NewYork newspapers, which I think ought to have come immediately to me. As to returns, I have already informed your Excellency, in mine of the 11th and 12th instant, that I never had any except the one from General fVooster, which I then But I dare say I shall soon have the pleasure of sent you. transmitting you one, as General Sidlivan promised me, before he left Fort George, that he would do all in his power and as he now comto have them regularly transmitted mands, I think we can depend upon having them. I have long since given orders for a sulHcient supply of I have mentioned the number of barrels of provisions. pork and flour that was necessary; none or a very trifle of 1 shall again immediately pork is to be procured here. draw an estimate of what is wanting, and transmit it to Mr. that are in Ulster ;

;

;

;

'rrumbull.

their horses, provisions for themselves, or a blanket to

cover them.

JUNE,

the scarcity of forage, the badness of the roads, and the extravagant abuses the wagoners had met with from some of

;

:

fee,

1

all

am

fully

me

convinced that your Excellency intended

possible justice on the subject of the complaint preferred

me and since you think it so absolutely unnecessary any inquiry to be made, I shall rest satisfied, contenting myself with giving your Excellency's opinion of the matter whenever it may be necessary. By the enclosed your Excellency will see what progress has been made on the Resolution of Congress of the ;3d Whether your Excellency and Congress will apinstant. against

;

for

prove of our mode of raising these Indians, 1 know not or I shall be justified in issuing warrants for the money; ;

whether

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

913

present agreed that vvc should not be able to get any What our success will bo eastward on better terms. westward, 1 cannot guess; I fear not much, as even to the are our best friends, Oncidcis, who do not choose to the

but

all

to the

leave

own

tlieir

country.

the general opinion of the people in

It is

Tryon County

and here, that whilst Lady Johnson is kept a kind of hostage. Sir John (who can, by means of die Mohawks, receive intelligence from her as often as she will not carry matters to excess,

and

may 1

please to send

it)

have been entreated

keep her here. But as it was a matter of delicacy, when Mr. Walts delivered me your Excellency's letter I proposed that security should be given that Lady Johnson should be Ibrthcoming when called upon and besides the above reasons, I was the more induced to this request, as 1 was informed, from good authority, that she exults in the prospect she has of soon hearing that Sir John will ravage the country on the Mohawk River. Mr. IVatts declined giving any security, and soon after wrote me a note, (a copy of which I enclose with copy of my answer,) and afterwards a second, which I also answered, as you will see by the enclosed. I find that since it has been hinted that she is a good to

;

security to prevent

tlie

effects of her

husband's virulence,

she is very anxious to go down, and which induces me to wish to keep her here. The villain that murdered Colonel Parsons's brother is

Colonel desired me to send him to New-York. I wait your Excellency's directions. I am, dear sir, with every friendly wish, and every respectful sentiment, your Excellency's most obedient, humble

The

here.

servant.

To

Philip Schuyi^er.

His Excellency General Washington.

to

Saturday, June 15, 1776.

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO ROBERT WATTS. Albany, June 15, 1776.

have received your note, and shall take the earliest opportunity of advising General Washington of the reasons which induce me not to permit Lady Johnson to leave Albany on any other terms than what I proposed to you.

You

:



read, is in the following words, viz: " June 3, 1776. Resolved, That the General be

will therefore please not to give yourself the

I

am,

sir,

my

unneces-

reasons.

your humble servant,

Philip Schuyler.

To

Mr. Robert Watts.

"A

George Washington."

true copy,

Commissioners, after having duly considered the same, came to the following Resolutions: 1. That two Companies, to consist of one Captain, two Lieutenants, three Sergeants, three Corporals, and seventyfive Privates, be raised out of the Mohekander and Connecticut Indians, with all possible expedition, and march, without further orders, to Lake George, by the w ay o( Albany, where they will receive provision, and the billet money will cease.

such a number cannot be raised out of the Companies be completed with white men living in the vicinity of said Indians, and accustomed to the woods provided that the white men do not exceed in number the one-third part of the Indians. That the pay, provision and billet money be the same as is now given to the troops in the service of the L^nited Co-

That

2.

if

said Indians, that the

;

lonies.

That such

as cannot furnish their

own

arms, will be sup-

plied out of the publick stores, paying for the

same out of

wages. the

Committee of Stockbridge and Mr. Edwards be

Indians, for the Stockbridge

Company,

men or deem

as they shall

best qualified for the service.

That one monlh's pay be advanced them, and that the same be paid into the hands of the Committee of Stockbridge, to be by them and Mr. Edwards disposed of for such necessaries as the Companies may immediately stand in .need of; and that for the remainder of each person's advance pay, if any there be, the said Committee account with the Indians, or any persons authorized by them to receive

it.

That pay

for

if the Company should not be complete, the advance such deficiency to be by the said Committee return-

ed to Jonathan Tmmbull, Junior, Esq., Deputy-Paymaster General. That General Schuyler be requested to grant a warrant on the said Paymaster in favour of Timothy Edwards, Esq., for the said advance pay. That the Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Governour, &LC., of the Colony of Connecticut, be requested to appoint such officers, either of white men or Indians, for the Connecticut Company of Indians, as he shall deem best qualified for the service.

Albany, June 15, 1776.

New-York

to

The

ROBERT WATTS TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Sir: As you

em-

employ in Canada a number of Indians, not exceeding two thousand." powered

I

sary trouble of giving General Washington

914

requested to appoint such officers, either of white

General Schuyler, informs him he leaves Albany this evening with Captain f"an Buren. If want of time prevents him being particular, Rlr. Waits will mention to General Washington the reasons why General Schuyler does not comply with his request for Lady Johnson to go to Neiu- York.

Sir

1776.

At a meeting of the Commissioners for transacting Indian for the Northern Department, held at Albany, on Thursday, June I.'J, 1770 Present: General Schuyler, Volkcrt P. Douw, and Timothy Kdwards, Es(|s. General Schuyler laid before the Commissioners a Resolve of the honourable Continental Congress, transmitted to him by his Excellency General Washington; which bein"

That Mr. Watts' s compliments

JUNE,

affairs

their

MR. WATTS TO GENERAL SCHUYLER.

&:c.,

That the

advance pay be given as to the Stockbridge of, and accounted for, by his Honour Governour Trumbull, or any pei'son or persons he

consent to Lady Johnson's going to without giving two gentlemen as securities, I will not

it as a favour if you will let me know as soon as by a line, what engagements they are to be under, cannot apply to any gendeman unul you inform me. am, sir, your humble servant,

like

Indians, to be paid, disposed

shall take

shall please to appoint for that purpose, in like

possible,

mentioned with regard to the Stockbridge Company. That General Schuyler be requested to lodge a credit with the Deputy Paymaster-General, to enable his Honour

as I I

Robert Watts.

To

General Schuyler.

to carry into execution

what

is

manner

as

is

requested of him.

Honour Governour Trumand the Committee of Stockbridge, apologizing for the liberty the Commissionei-s take in making the above request, and to entreat his Honour and the Committee of Stockbridge

That

a letter be written to his

bull

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO ROBERT WATTS. Albany, June 15, 1776.

Sir

to afford their assistance in this important business.

You

cannot fail of recollecUng what engagements I expected the gentlemen should enter into who might become securities but as by your former note of this day's :

lency General Washington on Lady Jolmson's situation, in a fuller manner than 1 did in my former letter to him and 1 shall therefore not proceed any further until I receive his

General Schuyler informed the Board of Commissioners having received intelligence by the Rev. Mr. Rirkland and others, of the hostile intentions of some of the Western Indians, he had found it necessary, to prevent delay, to despatch a iMessage to the Six Nations, inviting them to a conference at the German Flats, to be held on the 1st day of which Message being read, was in the words next month

commands.

following

that,

;

date you seemed altogether to decline entering into such a tneasure, I have since again given my sentiments to his Excel-

;

I

am,

sir,

:

"Brothers, Sachems and Warriors of the Six Nations r " We, your brothers, the Commissioners of Indian affairs, appointed by the Thirteen United Colonies, have been or-

your humble servant,

Philip Schuyler.

To

Mr. Robert Watts.

Fourth Series.

— Vol.

vi.

:

58

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

915

JUNE,

&c.,

1776.

916

dered by our Great Council, convened at Philadelphia, to desire lliat you will meet us with all possible despatch. " Brothei-s As the matters we have in charge to com-

that letters be written to Colonel Francis

municate to you are of the greatest importance, we entreat you to rise immediately, and to meet us on the 1st day of next month, at the German Fiats, where you \\ ill be in no danger of taking the small-pox for whicli reason we have pitched upon that place to open the Council Fire. ' Brothers As the business is of great consequence, we desire that the meeting may be full, and that none that love

tinental Congress, advising

:

;

:

us

may

be absent."

A

Belt.

Bcsolved, That the Board approve of said Message

Return of

;

and

cott,

com'd.

and Colonel IVol-

possible.

Resolved, That a letter be written to the honourable Conthem that daily expenses incur

diately paid

;

and

that, as

no fund

is

money must be immeestablished to pay the

necessary and contingent expenses, they will be pleased to lodge a credit with the Deputy Paymaster-General of the

Army for such sum as that honourable body shall deem meet, to be drawn but by warrant from the Commissioners, or any three of them.

A

true copy.

Attest.

Canada, June

JVbtiStaff.

Officers.

if

in the Indian Department, for which

the Continental Forces in

Commissioned

requesting their attendance

Effective

Rank and

12, 1776. Wantirg

File.

Mteralions to

complete.

since last

Return.

REGIMENTS.

Colonel Colooel Colonel Colonel Colonel

At Montreal. At Sorel.

Reed's Siark's Poor's Palerson's. Greaion's..

229

At At J

Colonel Bond's

\

Colonel De Haas's. Colonel Maxwell's. Colonel Winds's... Colonel Si. Clair's. Colonel Wayne's.

Johns.

St. John.'!.

At Berlhier and other places.

At Sorel. At Sorel. At Sorel. At Sorel. At Sorel. At Sorel, ChamJ

Colonel Portei's

\ i

Colonel Barrel's

\

Colonel Irvine's Colonel Bedel's Stanton's Independent

St.

At Montreal.

&c. Sorel,

thier,

Ber-

&c.

At Sorel. i At Berthier and places unknown. (

Company

Total

bty,

At

13 11 10 78

C6 73 61

414

12

9 8 3-25135 3,591955 5951,075

76,24119

18

766

213 526

Jiegimenl : Captains, 2 Captain-Lieutenants, 2 ; First Lieutenants, 4 ; Second Lieutenant, 1; Lieutenant Fire-worker, 1; Sergeants, 8; Corporals, 8; Bombardiers, 8 ; Gunners, 15; Drums, 3 ; Fifes, 2 ; Matrosses, 67; Sick, .3. Jlrtillery

;

The scattered and confused state of the troops when General Sullivan arrived in Canada has rendered it impossible to make an accurate Keturn. Even the Colonels of some Regiments cannot tell where some part of their Regiments are, they have been so harassed and dispersed to different posts. I have as nearly ascertained the stale of the Army here as lay in my power; the totals are nearly right, but the distributions are somewhat of those returned on command (Colonel De Haas, Colonel Max-ccell, Colonel St. Clair, Colonel IVaynes and Colonel Irvine's) how many, are as yet unknown and as some of them are daily returning, hope great part camp. "Those of Colonel Palerson's, returned on command, and a greater part of Colonel Jiedel's Regiment, not mentioned in the Return, were taken at the Cedars. Those returned sick are chiefly confined with the small-pox. As General Sullivan is using his utmost Near two hundred exertions to introduce order and regularity in the Army here, a true Return, with the casualties, will be forwarded very soon. Canadian volunteers this moment returned, but no return from Colonel Hazeji. erroneous.

Some

are either killed or taken prisoners at the T/iree Bix'ers



;

will recover our

Alexander Scammel, Deputy

A Return of the Regiment of Foot in the service of the

CO.MPANIES.

Adjutant-General.

United Colonies, commanded by Colonel Cornelius

Wynkoop.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

917

A Return of Colonel Goose Van Schaick's

COMPANIES.

he, JUNE,

918

1776.

Regiment of Forces of the United Colonies, in for the service in Canada.

the

Colony of

New-Yobk,

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS, he, JUNE,

919

appeal at the next term of the Superior Court to be holden in each respective County, as tiiough the appeal had been originally to the same term; and if any appellants shall neglect to enter their appeals as aforesaid, the appeltheir said

lees in

such case may,

plaints,

and the judgments of the

if

com-

they see cause, enter their

shall

Court

Inferior

be

affirmed thereon, as though said complaints had been enProvided alwai/s, That no execution or tered in due time :

writ of possession shall issue on any judgment given in any of the cases aforesaid until tlu-ee months after such judgment; and where any causes were tried by a jury, the Justices of the said Superior Court in such causes shall, and in all others where it shall appear to them to be expedient may, continue the same, and cause the absent parties to be notified of the suits against

them

;

and where any of the

parties shall

be out

the Continental or Colonial service, they shall have liberty to bring forward their suits at the next Superior Court held in said County after their return, and no action or complaints shall be entered against them while

of the°County, and

in

such person continues

in

said service,

any law, usage, or

custom to the contrary notwithstanding. Sent up for concurrence. j Warren, Speaker. In Council, June 15, 1776.

—Read and

concurred.

John Lowell, Deputy Consented

by the major

to

John Lowell, Deputy

Attest

P. T.

Sec^y,

P. T.

Sec'y

PRESIDENT of CONGRESS TO COLONEL ROBERDEAU. Philadelphia,

June

16, 1776.

The Continental troops having left this city New-York, 1 am laid under the necessity to request you

Dear for

Sir

General Sullivan mentions his having given commissions some of the CanadiaTis, as a measure founded in necesbut not considering sity, and requests my approbation of it myself empowered to say anything upon the subject, it may not be improper for Congress to give him their opinion in to

;

this instance.

have also enclosed copies of General Schtylcr^s

I

:

ing the Indians variant from

I may add, beside his estimate of be made, there are the claims of the Eastern troops at Boston for three or four months' pay, not included, and

necessity for it; and, drafts to

due.

Colonel Magaw has arrived with part of his battalion, and by Wednesday evening the whole, both of his and Colonel Shea's, will be here, as I am told. As it is, and may be of great importance to have a communication with the Jerseys and Long-Island, I have had

Gentlemen

:

I received

thoughts of getting more

Mr. Bingham, the 13th

1776.

instant, but the shallop with the pro-

for

where they may be equally necessary for transporting our Army, or part of it, occasionally, or succours coming to or going from it. 1 have the honour to be, with sentiments of the greatest respect,

sir,

your most obedient servant,

George Washington. Hon. John Hancock, President of Congress.

the

Nlw-York, June

A

your orders and instructions by

purpose, and have Passaick and Hackinsack

several flat-bottom boats built for the

To

CAPTAIN WICKES TO SECRET COMMITTEE. On board the Reprisal, June 16,



1 beg leave to mention that a further sum of money will be wanted for our military chest by the time it can be sent. The enclosed note from the Paymaster-General shows the

be glad the guard might be at my house by nine o'clock to-morrow morning. I am, with much esteem, sir, your very humble servant, John Hancock, President. the Honourable Colonel Roberdcau.

what were reported by Mr.

ticity.

rivers,

To

letters,

accounts respect-

the probability Kirkland, but amoiuiting to the same thing of the savages attacking our frontiers. By last night's post I had information of a capture made by our armed vessels of one of the transports, with a company of Highlanders on board, bound to Boston. The enclosed extract from General fVard's letter to me will give you the intelligence more particularly. There are accounts in the city mentioning other valuable prizes, but as General IVard has said nothing of them, I fear they want authen-

be so obliging as to order a guard of six men, with an of your battalion of Associators, in whom you can confide, to attend a wagon of money from hence to NewYork, on its way to Canada ; your guard to be relieved at New-York by a guard which General Washington will apI should point immediately on their arrival at Nezv- York. will

officer,

They contain

received at the same time.

now

part of the Council.

920

1776.

10,

1776.

Return of the disposition of the Cannon, and of ten Companies of the Continental Regiment of Artillery, and one Colony Company of Artillery, commanded by Captain Hamilton, in and about the City o/ New-York.



Cafttmn Perkins and part of Captain Batiman's. Three 12-pounders, garrison carriages; two 8-inch mortars, proposed.

GnENAniEn's Battery.



— Captain Perkins and part of Captain Bauman's. —

have now got all the this day. You provision on board, both from the M'^asp and shallop. may depend on my best endeavours in your service to prosecute this voyage with the most expedition and advantage

Jersey Battery.

my power. My people, all but two, are in good health, and the officers are well satisfied with this cruise, hoping

Fort George.

thereby to render their country an essential service, as well There is now one two-decker, two frigates, as themselves. one twenty-gun ship, and a sloop of war lying in Old Kiln

Grand

Road, and we

and one 10-inch iron mortar, proposed. Captain, Lieutenant, Serg-eant, and twelve Wiiiteiiall Battery. men of Captain Pierce's Company. 'I'wo 32-pounders, garrison

visions did not arrive

till

We

in

by them with impatience; so you may depend upon our embracing the first favourable opportunity of getting out and proceedare waiting an opportunity to get out

12-pounders, travelling carriages; three 32-pounders, garrisin

ditto.

Oyster Battery.

— Captain

.\'e-well's.

—Two

32-pounders, garrison

carriages; three 12-pounders, diUo.

—Part of Captain Hamilton's.—Two 12-pounders, four 32-pounders, Battery. — Captain Pierce, Burbeck, part of Captain Hamand part of Captain Bauman's. — Thirteen 32-pounders, gar-

rison carriages

gar-

ditto.

;

ilton s,

rison carriages; one 24-pounder, ditto; three 18-pounders, ditto; two mortar ; two 8-inch iron mortars, 1 2-pounder.s ditto ; one 1 3-inch brass





carriages.

ing on our intended cruise.

From, gentlemen, your most obliged humble

servant,

Lambert Wickes.

To

Two

the Honourable Committee of Secret Correspondence,

A Barret Battery near the Ship-Yarus. — .It Dana. — Two 12-pounders, garrison carriages. Spencer's Revovbt.—^H present Captain Dana. travelling carriages,

Bayarh's HiLi.

Philadelphia.

and four

— Captain

present Captain

— Two

12-pounders,

field-pieces, travelling carriages, proposed.

Morion.

— Eight

riages; four 3-pounders, travelling carriages;

9-pounders, garrison car-

and six royal and cohorn

mortars.

general WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Referred to the Board of War and Ordnance.]

[Read June 18, 1776.

New-York, June

16, 1776.

Congress a copy of a letter, covering copies of other papers, which I received The intelligence yesterday evening from General Sullivan. communicated by him is pleasing and interesting, and such as must afford the greatest satisfaction, if the conduct the

Sir

:

1

do myself the honour

to transmit

Canadians have discovered since his arrival among them is ingenuous and sincere. This account is contrasted by General AmoUVs letter to General Schuyler, of which a copy is also transmitted.



Two 12-poundeis, .It the Redoubts no .Irtillerijmen. garrison carriages; two 9-pounders, travelling carriages ; and four 3pound brass field-pieces, wilh> fifty rounds of case shot each.

LoNO-IsiANii.

it present only Lieutenant Jlandall and tTvelve 32-poundcrs, and two 18-pounders, garrison carriages; rounds each.

Fort Stiklino. ,„,.„.

— Four

thirty

Reu UnoK.— Captain Foster.— One travelling carriages; seventy-five

3-pounder, and four 18-pounders,

rounds each.

Governour's Island. — Captain Craft's

;

pounders, and four 32-pounders, garrison posed to have seventy -live.

Paulus Hook.— Proposed

to



Four 18but wants more. fifty rounds each, but pro;

send Captain TJana.— Two 12-pounders, and two

travelling carriages; three 32-poundcrs, garrison carriages;

3-poundcrs, iron field-pieces.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

921 The Park. —

a Reserve, Captain Drury. —Twelve

.is

3-pounders, and one 2'1-pouiidcr, briiss field-pieces; and nine I2-pounders, iron field-pieces.

6-poun(lers, eii;ht

done here

tliree .'i-pounder«,

surrender of St. .Johns.

HENRY KNOX,

this

day than has been done

They

of our officers. Colonel nej^..1rl.

Twenty-four-pounders Eighteen-pounders Twelve-pounders,

27

2 13

'J'hrec-pounders,

— 22

brass

— 16; 2 8-inch mortars,

Your Excellency summary,

will

that there are

1

10-inch mortar

total 19.

by the above

please to observe

now mounted and

approved by your Excellency. Our affairs here have taken a strange turn since our arrival. The Canadians are flocking by hundreds to take a

13-inch mortar;

1

— 3; fit

part with us.

for action in

;

;

cellency should think it proper that all the artillery should at the same time, wc shall want six hundred

men

It

is

for

;

to

be mustered and paid

Colonels.

As

the corps of Artillery

men who may be by their respective always more on de-

is

tachments than' any other corps, an additional number of officers will be necessary. The above is most respectfully submitted, by your Excellency's most obedient, humble servant,

H. Knox. New-York, June

GENERAL SULLIVAN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON.

Dear General: I

I

June

5,

General Thompson was

left

and wish them string with

They begin

moment with my brigade. men to de-

but with very few

men to follow ine, as, upon departure of General Woosand the death of General Thomas, the cominand deHaving given these orders, I proceeded volved upon me. with the troops I brought with me, to join General Thompson, who was in the greatest distress. As General Carleton's fleet had passed the Sorcl, and was coming up the river with a fair wind, (as was reported on all fjuarters,) a retreat seemed in all parts to be agreed upon and the heavy baggage and most of the artiller}' were removed to St. Johns and Chambly, This caused the Frenchmen to curse our cowardice, and lament their folly in favouring a cause which we had so poorly defended but upon my coming with a large force, ordering all the troops to follow, and die cannon to be returned, 1 found joy in every countenance except some very few Tories. It really was afi(?cting to see the banks of the Sorel lined with men, women, and children, leaping and clapping their hands for joy to see me arrive it gave no less joy to General Thompson, who seemed to be wholly forsaken, and left to fight against an unequal force or retreat well ter

;

;

;

Upon iny arrival I was surprised to hear that, notwithstanding all we have read about the Sorel, our people had not thrown up as much work as I could do widi a hundred men in two days, and that extremely ill done

before them.

complain against their Priests, I shall, however, touch this

tenderness at present, as

I

know

their

by the present behaviour of the Canadians, was because our exertions were so feeble that they doubted much of our sucbut the face cess, and even of our ability to protect them of our affairs seems to be changed; and, in the midst of our pleasing prospects, an express arrives from General Schuyler with sixteen hundred and sixty-two pounds one shilling and three pence, Pennsylvania currency, in specie, with the This gives new life to our spirited resolves of Congress. Canadian friends, and added spirit to our troops. find that I had anticipated the I was extremely happy to wishes of Congress, and had, through every embarrassment, pressed downward toward the important posts they wished ;

lor

it

bault,

was iny fixed determination to gain post which I mean to fortify so as to make it

when

at

Dcschamr

inaccessible.

;

but

ships are

now

if

;

;

;

;

nold has not joined me, being, as you may see by his letter which I enclose you, much engaged at Montreal, upon The post at La Chine, which he aftaii-s of importance. I can by no means consent to afford such a large body of men to defend against a petty number of savages, 1 have therefore ordered a small little less than a mob fortification to be thrown up by Colonel Dc Haas's party, men, and made inaccessihundred consisting of about nine ble, at least to savages, and garrisoned it with two hundred men, the rest to return to me, as all our operations ought to

mentions,

;

be down the

son says, and

place, as at the Cedars.

more work was

The

the resolves arrived.

General Thompson succeeds at T'hree Rivers, I will soon remove the ships below Richelieu Falls, and after that approach towards Quebeck as fast and according to the present appearance of as possible affairs, may exceed in number the Hanoverians, Sac, which we are threatened with. I have no doubt of the general attachment of the Canadians, though I suppose some unprincipled wretches among them will always appear against us but a vast majority will be for us, and perhaps as many, according to their numbers, are really in our favour as in some other Colonies upon the Continent many of them are with General Thompson in this expedition, and great numbers are here, ready equipped, waiting my orders. I may venture to assure you and the Congress that I can, and, ^^ ith the in a few days, reduce the Army to order assistance of a kind Providence, put a new face to our affairs here, which a few days since seemed almost impossiGeneral Thompson and the Baron de IVoedtke have ble. done everything in their power to assist me. General Ar;

were three cannon, and three only, mounted in all the works. I sat all the men at work, and have this day almost enclosed the encampnient, and completed a battery on the north side of the river, with three cannon. General Thompthere

believe with great truth, that

;

really find,

above that place

fend this itnportant post, the troops being scattered about I had issued orders for all the in a most shocking manner.

I

to

be secured

to

great

that purpose

1776.

have the pleasure to inform you that

arrived here at a very critical

but certificates.

This commands the channel, secures the country, destroys the communication, and affords a safe retreat, if we are obliged to make one. General Thompson was embarking for

10, 1776.

Sorel,

;

I

the

draughted

unnecessary assumption of power. I really find most of them exceedingly friendly. I have sent out for carts and teams, Stc. They have come in with the greatest cheerfulness and what gives still greater evidence of their friendship is, that they have voluntarily offered to supply us with what wheat, flour, &ic., we want, and ask nothing in return

that the only reason of their disaffection

such

time as the Commander-in-Chief shall think necessary. As most of the battalions now in the service are considerably deficient in arms, a draught might be made without any prejudice to the strength of the regiments, and that part of the Army which will be of no use in action put upon a service of the utmost importance

them commissions, agreeable to hope will not be thought an

giving

sacerdotal influence.

usual in the British service to draught

from the battalions as additional artillerymen

am

I

the enclosed form, which I

and the neighbouring posts, one hundred and twentyone heavy and light cannon. To each cannon it will be necessary to have ten men, including the mortar and conThis would make twelve hundred and ten tingent services. men. We have in the regiment six hundred, officers included of these, about forty are on command at distant posts, and about as many more, perhaps, sick or unfit for This would reduce the number to five hundred service. and twenty of these about fifty are officers. If your Exthis city

be manned men more.

and eight sloops and

with about two thousand of your best troops, to attack them. A copy of his orders are enclosed, which I ho|)e will- be

.Mortors, most of -which are 7noiintcd, the rest 7nounting

3 cohorn mortars, 10 royal mortars, 2 8-ineh mortars,

brig,

both say that the troops there amount to no more than three hundred, who are intrenching themselves I have detached General Thompson, at the Three Rivers.

_

^^^^^^

agree that the ntirnber of vessels are

one ship, one

They

schooners. 10 12

Nine-pounders, Six-pounders,

since the



as follows, viz:

35

Canada

in

;

Siimmarij of the wit/iin Jtetnrn. Thirty-two-pounders,

922

1776.

Jane (jth. This morning two expresses arrived from Three Rivers, which were sent to observe the motions of the enemy one of them was a friendly Canadian, who lived at Three Rivers, and passed among the fleet, the other one

Intended to be run where the enemy sliall moke their greatest elTort. Implements complcle to the whole. Above one hundred rounds of case shot fixed with flannel cartridges for each of the lield-pieccs. More than thirty rounds of cartridges made up for each of the heavy

cannon.

JUNE,

&c.,

river,

tion there will

where,

if

we

die of course.

are successful, the insurrecI

have ordered a month's

provision to be lodged there, lest an excuse of surrendering ibr want of provision before we can relieve it, should take I

do not think

it

a post of great

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

923 importance,

or,

attention.

I hope, dear General, to give you, in a few days, some agreeable intelligence; while I remain, with the most profound respect, your Excellency's obedient servant,

John Sullivan.

To

His Excellency General Washington. I shall

will

your Excellency a letter from Colonel Duggan: I have appointed a Court of Inquiry into the accusation against I am informed by General Thompson, Mr. Bromfield, him. and others, that the accusation is false, and that he is a very useful man. He has, at my request, since he wrote the above letter, raised and armed upwards of two hundred

men I

for us.

have the honour to be your Excellency's most obe-

dient servant,

As

I

j^^^ Sullivan.

have not time

to write

Ex-

the Congress, beg your

cellency to forward them a copy of

S.

J.

this.

924

1776.

Montreal, June 5, 1776.

Dear General: I have complied with your orders, as fir as in my power, respecting the destination of the troops. intended setting oft" this day for Sorel, but have been Every poshindered by taking the goods in town.

1

much

sible obstacle has

secure

soon obtain proper returns of our scattered forward them with return of stores, Sic; I have, for after which you may expect them weekly. your diversion, enclosed you one which is similar to what I enclose the other Colonels must make if called upon.

P. S.

Army, and

JUNE,

general ARNOLD TO GENERAL SULLIVAN.

indeed, any in our rear except St. Johns will ever secure a retreat, and to these

and Chambly, which I will pay particular

fee,

many

however, I shall in my way much wanted by the Army. Yester-

been thrown

articles

;

De Haas, with his detachment, set out for Last night and this morning I have received intelligence of four or five hundred savages and Canadians being on the Island, with intention of attacking our post at La Chine ; and as the garrison is so weak, we can spare few men from it, I have thought proper to order Colonel De Haas day Colonel Sorel.

to return.

think

I

it

absolutely necessary

I have ordered Colonel Bedel, Young, to Sorel, for their trial.

June

An 6,

1776.

Dear Sir You are to march as soon as possible, with Colonel Irvine's and Colonel Wayne's Regiments, together with those of Colonel St. Clair, now remaining at this place, and join Colonel St. Clair at Nicolette, and take command and unless you find the number of of the whole party the enemy at Three Rivers to be such as would render an :

I

must

his

them hazardous, you are to cross the river at you the most convenient place you can, and attack them will pay particular attention to the preservation of your batteaus, keeping them at a convenient distance above the shipping, which lies at or near the Three Rivers. I would by no means advise to an attack if the prospect of success ;

much

We

brought.

have only two pieces of cannon here, and

no matrosses.

With

am, dear General, your

great esteem and affection, I

humble

obedient,

servant,

Benedict Arnold.

To

General Sullivan.

Returns of the forces here, at Longueil, and will be sent you as soon as possible.

J.

La

Prairie,

DUGGAN to general SULLIVAN. St.

Johns, June

5,

1776.

your favour, as a defeat of your party at this time might prove the total loss of this country. Sir, as I have (without flattery) the highest opinion of the bravery and good conduct of yourself and the officers you command, 1 i'orbear attempting particular instructions, being well assured that neither prudence nor resolution will be wanting to answer the great purpose we have in view. I have the highest opinion of the bravery and resolution of the troops you command, and doubt not but, under the direction of a kind Providence, you will open the way for our recovering that ground which former troops have so shame-

beg leave to introduce the bearer, Theodore C/tarire, to your Honour, as an honest worthy man, He has great influence and well attached to the cause. among the Canadians and Indians ; and were your Honour to give him authority, would raise one or two hundred men

fully lost.

ently with

is

not

in

Wishing you the greatest success and

am. sir, John Sullivan.

yqur obedient servant,

To

safety, I

General Thompson.

Honourable Sir

Reposing especial trust and confidence in your friendship, zeal, and attachment to the cause of liberty, and relying upon your exertions to oppose and frustrate the cruel designs of a wicked Ministry, formed against the lives, liberties, and properties of the inhabitants of the Thirteen United Colonies oi America, which, if carried into execution, must, in its operation, prove as fatal to this and the other American Colonies as to those which have already united in op1 do, by position to the wicked designs of Administration, virtue of the power and authority delegated to me by the



bonourable the Continental Congress, appoint you, the said Francis Guillot, to be Captain of an Independent Company of such brave French Canadians as you already have, or

may

hereafter

Troops,

You

inlist,

to act

in

concert with the American

in opposition to the Ministerial

Army

in

Canada.

are from time to time to receive and obey such direc-

tions as

you

shall receive from the

Commander-in-Chief or

other your superior officers. The pay of yourself, your under officers and soldiers, to be the same as any other troops sent here under the nental Congress.

Given

at

command and

direction of the Conti-

Head-Quarters, at Sorel, the 6th June, 1776.

:

I

directly,

and march down

men, by

his

to Sorel to join the

Army.

The

information, are daily deserting from Colonel

Hazen ; and should we be unfortunate, he has reason to think they would be against us, and that there is some foul play going on there. I should be much obliged to your Honour for an answer. As to myself, I think I cannot, consist-

my character as a man of honour, take upon me any commission to raise men until that unjust aspersion on my character by Colonel Hazen is cleared up. I applied to his Honour General 'Thompson for a Court of Inquiry, to inspect into

To Francis Guillot, of River Dahoup, Gentleman :

'

Major, and Captain

express arrived here from Three Rivers yesterday. refer you to General Thompson for the advice he

;

attack upon

effectual

part of the country.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR GENERAL THOMPSON. Sorel,

some

methods should be taken with the savages immediately, or we shall be obliged to keep up a large force here, and shall This affair will prebe continually harassed with them. It vent my joining you at Sorel as soon as I could wish. will not be in my power to take an account of the goods and send them off this three days. I believe the enemy below will not advance very suddenly. I make no doubt you will have time to prepare for them, and that we shall be reinforced in time to secure this

my

conduct

orders, I could not get

;

and, notwithstanding the General's

him

to attend the said court, to

make

good his accusation against me. The bearer, by order of General Woedtke, drew provision at Chamhhj while the General staid here, but as soon as the General was gone, he was deprived of that privilege as he is a man that, by bis good conduct and behaviour, is very deserving of that benefit, what Colonel Hazen' s reasons were for not obeying ;

the General's order

As much

to

my

I

cannot

tell.

character, from the

first

of the war,

I

should be

of any person who knows me, particularly Colonel Campbell. Till that point respecting Colonel Hazen's accusations is cleared up, I canobliged to your

not, in

honour and

present

affairs.

Honour

common

to inquire

decency, take any part

in

the

I beg leave to acquaint your Honour that there are one thousand pounds sterling oftered by General Carhton for my head. I promised your Honour to return to Sorel to day, but the extreme hurry of business here at present will deprive me of that honour to-day, but will if possible wait on your Honour to-morrow. I have the honour to be, sir, your obedient humble ser-

^'^"t'

To

General Sullivan.

J.

Duggan.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

925

1776-4

Dear

The

Sir:

you yesterday this 1

letter

which

1

o'clock P.

had the honour

Army, and repeated misfortunes and losses, have greatly dispirited the troops. Our enemies are daily increasing, and our friends deserting us. Under these discouragements and obstacles, with a powerful Army against us, well disciplined, and wanting in no one article to carry on their operations, it will be a miracle if we keep the country;

M.

to write

who

delivered to General IVoostcr,

1

sailed

day. have, within

this

half hour, received a letter from

Ge-

my

only expectations are to secure our retreat to St. Johns, where it will doubtless be thought nefor which purpose, all the batteaus cessary to make a stand

which the enclosed is a copy. I fear the announce the evacuation of Canada by our troops,

neral Arnold, of

or the Isle-aux-Noix,

next will probably with loss, as I fear that not a suflicient attention has been paid to a recommendation of mine to bring all the batteaus that could possibly be spared from Sorel to St..Johns. I shall immediately despatch an express to Fort George to send batteaus to St. Johns; but after all, the number will be I suppose very small, for want of men to navigate them

;

on your side the Lake that can be spared should be sent over; our gondolas we shall be obliged to destroy; others ought immediately to be taken inland, to secure the Lake. Tlie enemy, I am well informed, have brought over a number with them, framed and done to put up in a short The want of a little attention in time has lost us this time. fine country. I hoiie for better things on your side, and that, in rotation of Ibrtune, something better will turn up

and

;

one hundred and twenty I

am

at least are at Lialce

George.

not under the least apprehension that the

enemy

will

provided that our Army is able to retreat into that Lake, that ammunition is speedily sent up, and a further supply of pork forwarded without de-

be able

Lake Champlain,

to cross

I am, with great esteem dear General, your obedient, humble ser-

In every vicissitude of fortune,

and

affection,

^^"''

Your Excellency will perceive that General Arnold inme that the enemy have the frames, &:c., for gondoWe should therefore build a number of these las on board. vessels with all possible despatch one is now on the stocks,

To

forms

B. Arnold.

General Philip Schuyler.

GENERAL WARD TO GENERAL WASHINGTON.

;

we want

people that understand the construction of them. I have some time ago begged Congress to send one express let me entreat that some more capable persons may be sent up, and twenty shipwrights with them.

order

1776.

Marblehead by the Continental armed schooners WarShe had on board a company of Highlanders, consisting of near one hundred privates, one captain, three subalterns, and two volunteers they inform that thirty-two sail of transports came out with them under convoy of a into

ren and Lee.

;

the batteaus that do not go to St. Johns

all

9,

Yesterday a ship from Scotland was taken and brought

As I fear the saw-mills will not be able to saw a sufficient number of plank, I wish to have a dozen of whip-saws and files sent up with all possible despatch. I shall

EXTRACT.

Boston, June

;

frigate of thirty-two guns, with three thousand Highlanders They brought no papers on board, all bound to Boston. nor letters of any consequence, and can give no intelligence of importance. The transport is said to be a very good ship, had on board four of one hundred and thirty tons burden carriage guns, the arms and baggage belonging to the com-

out o[ Lake George to Ticonderoga, that they may be ready at that place to be sent to Skenesborough, to convey the Militia, should they be sent up. I am, with every respectful sentiment, your Excellency's Philip Schuyler. most obedient, humble servant,

To

vessels

for us here.

lay to this place.

but

926

1776.

necessary for the

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Albany, June 12,

JUNE,

&c.,

;

His Excellency General Washington.

pany, some

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON.

is

and clodiing and provisions. The CapMaxwell, who commands the company, and the Dutchess of Gordon.

tents,

name

tain's

is

brother to

Albany, June 12, 1776.

Dear

Sir:

had just closed

I

my

letter

No.

1,

received the enclosed from General Sullivan, which

my

when was

MR. PALFREY TO

I

Sunday morning, June

am

extremely happy that it contains such favourable accounts, and do myself the pleasure to congratulate your Excellency. I am still in hopes, if reinforcements are soon sent, we shall hold Canada, especially I am, however, humbly as the Canadians are so friendly. of opinion that we still ought to build the gondolas, and make every preparation to prevent the enemy's crossing the

open

for

Lake and

perusal.

penetrating into the Colonies, which

certainly be our

God

I

own

dear General, and believe

fervently your obedient,

think will

they do.

fault if

my

bless you,

I

humble

me most

his

remainder of the abstracts for April, will nearly if not quite Mr. P. therefore requests his Excelexhaust the chest. lency to back the application he intends to make to Congress for a further supply.

servant,

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL SCHUYLER.

His Excellency General Washington.

New- York, June

Dear

general ARNOLD TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Montreal, June 6, 1776.

Dear General General Sullivan,

:

I

this

moment

received a letter from

dated at four o'clock yesterday body of the King's troops and a number of ships were between him and the Thi-ee Rivers, and that he soon expected to be attacked. I have sent every man that could be spared to his assistance, but am fearful he will be obliged to abandon his post. If the enemy land on that side, I am fearful they will endeavour jo possess themselves of Chambly and St. Johns. If they come at Sorel,

evening, informing

me

that a

this side, (on which they are at present,) we must evacuate this town. Some days since the sick and baggage have been removed to St. Johns. I am now removing a parcel of goods I have seized for the use of the Army I expect to have all over this evening. I shall obtain only

upon

;

four or five

hundred men

receive orders to leave perior force.

it,

to

or

garrison

am

this place, until I obliged to quit it by a su-

Out of upwards of eight thousand men

in this

country, not five thousand effective can be mustered. The small-pox has broken out and divided the Army in such a

manner

that

it is

almost ruined.

16, 1776.

most respectful compliments to his Excellency General Washington, with the enclosed The Commissary-General return of the stale of his office. has informed Mr. Palfrey he shall have a further demand in the course of ten days for one hundred thousand dollars, which, with the payment of the Connecticut Militia, and the

Mr. Palfrey presents

Philip Schuyler.

To

GENERAL WASHINGTON.

left

Our want of almost everv

16, 1776.

your several favours of the 11th continued to the 12th, and 12th with a copy of General The return delivered you by General Arnold's letter. Wooster, you forgot to enclose. The account of Mr. Deanc is variant froni Colonel Kirkland's ; but yet they both seem to agree in the most material

Sir:

I received

that some parts of our frontiers are to feel points, viz the effects of the savage resentment which the friends of Government have been industriously trying to call forth :

against us.

You have done well inyourlMessage The sooner a conference can be held

to the

Six Nations. and I

the better;

think the most vigorous exertions necessary to secure a posT, as you mention, where Fort Stanivix formerly stood, and

below

that, as

I

intimated

in

my

last.

If

you can

efl'ect

be have ordered a ton of powder, half a ton of lead, five thousand flints, some cannon, intrenching tools, and a dozen whip-saws and files, to be immediately sent you, which 30U will receive in two or three days, with a list of them and every other article sent from hence at this these,

I

am

unavailing.

hopeful

all

their attempts in that quarter will

I

time. 1

have enclosed you a copy of an invoice of goods

now

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

927

in the hands of Mr. Robert Henry, which he offered the Quartermaster-General tiiis week on moderate terms, as the Quartermaster informs me. It certainly will be proper that you purchase them, or such of them as will suit the Army in Canada ; and it will be less troublesome and expensive than sending articles from hence, supposing they can be pro-

cured, and that can be had either in

Albany

or

am

its

vicinity,

imand have such a variety of things to attend to, that I scarcely know which way to turn myself. Perhaps, if you make a strict inquiry, you may obtain not only more goods, but other necessaries. The Indians are here, just relumed from Fhiladelphia. I will communicate to them your wishes for their return, and give direction that every mark of respect be shown them by those who go with them. I have requested the Paymaster to procure, if possible, as much hard money as will discharge Mr. Black's claim. How he will succeed, I cannot tell. If he can get it, it shall be forwarded as soon as a proper conveyance can be rather than to send here for

mersed

them

;

for I

really so

in business,

In regard to a person to superintend the building of had. gondolas, and other carpenters to carry on the works, I refer you to my letter of the 9th and shall only add, that they ;

cannot be now had, every one qualified for the business being employed here. The intelligence contained in General Sullivan's letter is extremely pleasing, and I sincerely wish his most sanguine hopes may be more than answered. If the affection of the Canadians can be engaged and he seems to have no it will be of much importance, and probably doubt of it the means of retrieving our misfortunes in that quarter. 1 General Arnold's letter to General Sullivan, Colofind, by nel Bedel, Major Butterjield, and Captain Young, are gone If their conduct was as base and to the Sorel for trial. infamous as represented, it will surely meet with an exemMen who will not discharge the duty plary punishment. they owe their country from principle, must be influenced to it by other motives, or at least be prevented from betraying our most valuable rights by a cowardly and disgracelul





behaviour.

Enclosed you have an extract of a letter I received by night's post from General Ward, from which we may reasonably conjecture that the rest of the transports which sailed with the one taken, will not be long before they arrive. It seems evident they expected to find General Howe at Boston ; and I am hopeful some others, under this idea, will fall into our hands. There are also accounts in town of two or three valuable prizes more being taken to the eastward one with several light cannon, another a IVestIndian, homeward-bound, with a quantity of dollars and sugars but I fear, though the accounts seem particular, that they want confirmation, as General fVard mentions nothing of them. I am, dear sir, Sac, last



;

George Washington.

To

General Schuyler.

P. S. The whip-saws, I fear, can't be got master says he has tried without success.

;

the Quarter-

&;c.,

JUNE,

1776.

and complete our Union. work is now more difficult than

to,

928 I

it

confess this interesting

would have been hereto-

had matters been properly conducted but yet I flatter myself it may be accomplished by a wise, prudent, and animated behaviour in the officei-s and men engaged in it, especially if assisted by the friendly disposition of the inhabitants. I think every mark of friendship and favour should be shown them, to encourage their zeal and attachment to our cause, and from which, if they once heartily embark, we shall derive innumerable benefits. Your conduct in pushing and securing posts low down the country is certainly judicious, and of the utmost advantage. Tlie further down we can take and maintain posts, the greater will our possession of the country be, observing, at the same time, the necessity of having a safe retreat left, if you should be obliged to abandon them by a superior force. I am hopeful, and shall anxiously wait to hear of General Thompson's making a successful attack upon the party intrenching at the Three Rivers. Their defeat will be of the most essential service. It will chagrin them, disconcert their schemes on the one hand, and animate our men, and give life to our Canadian friends on the other, and efface from their minds the unfavourable impressions our late conduct has made. It will be of material consequence, in your advances down the country, to secure the several important posts as you go, at which you may, in case you should be obliged to decline the main object you have in view, make a vigorous and successful stand in your retreat. 1 concur with you in opinion in thinking it not of material moment to keep a very large number of men at La Chine, or the upper posts. There should be no more than will be necessary to repel such attacks and attempts as may be made by the savages and the regular troops above you allowing for such a number of disaffected Canadians as may join them. But then there should be a sufficient number for that purpose, as our further misfortunes there njight be of the most injurious consequence. If they can be maintained, the disaffection above will dwindle away, and the insurrection promise nothing disastrous. It is impossible for me at this distance, and not acquainted with the situation of affairs as well as you who are on the spot, to give any particular directions for your conduct and operations. I therefore have only to request that you, with your officers, will, in every instance, pursue such measures as the exigency of our affairs may seem to require, and as to you shall appear most likely to advance and promote the interest and happiness of your country. The return which you mention to have enclosed was not in your letter you probably, through hurry, forgot to put it in, or General Schuyler may have omitted it when in his hands. I wrote you the 13th instant on this subject, and must again enjoin a particular attention to this part of your duty, it being of the utmost importance to be frequently certified of our whole strength and stores. In compliance with your request I shall transmit a copy of your letter to Congress by to-morrow's post it will give them sensible pleasure, and such as they had no good reason to expect, at fore,

;

;

;

least so soon.

have enclosed you an extract of a letter from General From the capture mentioned in it, there is reason expect the other transports that sailed with her are not

I

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL SULLIVAN. New- York, June

Dear instant,

16, 1776.

Sir I was favoured with yours of the 5th and 6th by express, yesterday evening, from General Schuy:

am

exceedingly happy on account of the agreeable and interesting intelligence it contains. Before it came to hand I almost dreaded to hear from Canada, as my advices seemed to promise nothing favourable, but rather our lurther ler,

and

misfortunes. But I am now hopeful our affairs, from the confused, distracted, and almost forlorn state in which you

found them,

emerge, and assume an aspect of order and convinced many of our misfortunes are to be attributed to a want of discipline, and a proper regard to the conduct of the soldiery. Hence it was, and liom our feeble efforts to protect the Canadians, that they had almost joined and taken part against us. As you are fully apprized of this, and conceive them well disposed towards us, with confidence I trust you will take every step in your power to conciliate and secure their friendship. If this can be effected—and of which you seem to have no doubt I see no objection to our indulging a hope that this country (of such importance in the present controversy) may yet be added .success.

I

will

am



Ward. to

far off the coast.

In regard to your giving commissions, it is a measure that can neither approve nor disapprove; having no authority The propriety of it must to act in this instance myself. depend upon the powers and ]M'actice of your predecessors in connnand. If they had none, it will be judged of, most probably, by the good or bad consequences it may produce. Congress, from your letter, will see you have exercised such a power, and when they write you, will either confirm or I

refuse

it,

in all probability.

Lest you should conceive that I do not think La Chine or the Cedars posts of importance, and whose defence are not very material, I must here add that I esteem them of much consequence hut only mean that more men need not be employed than what will be equal to any probable attack that may be made against them. I would observe, before I have done, that it is my most ;

earnest request that harmony, a good understanding, and free

commtmicalion of sentiments, may prevail and be pre-

served between the Generals and Field Officers



particularly

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

929

&c.,

JUNE,

1776.

930

pointed a Brigadier-General, I shall order hini to relieve as soon as 1 am informed that he accepts his commis-

Nothing can produce greater benofils than tliis, nor tend more to promote your military operations whereas history and observation do sufficiently evince (they abound the former.

you

;

sion

;

and

if

am

assistance, before

Wishing, therefore, your officers of these ranks. counsels and efforts to be founded in a happy union, and to meet the smiles of a kind Providence, I am, Sic,

importance here, which

some

ease you of

amonji

may

he does, you

with numberless examples) the fatal consequences whicii have ever resulted from distrusts, jealousy, and disagreements

I

innnediately call hirn to your

acceptance this will can regulate a few matters of hope to do in a little time.

certified of his

trouble,

till

I

;

I

Geokge

To

Wasiii.n-gton.

Honourable General Ward.

tile

George Washington.

To Brigadier-General

Sullivan.

detrree of caution, the professions the

Canadiam may make

GENERAL WASHINGTON.

MRS. JOHNSON TO

P. S. Knowing your great zeal for the cause of your country and desire to render her every possible service, I must caution you not to put too much to the hazard in your exertions to establish her rights, and to receive, with a proper

Albany, June

IG, 1776.

Sir I take the liberty of complaining to you, as it is from yo" I expect redress. I was compelled to leave home, much agamst my inchnat.on, and am detamed here by General Schuyler, who, I am convinced, acts more out of ill nature to Sn John than from any reason that either he or 1 have As I am not allowed to return home, and my K'ven him. situation here made as disagreeable as it can be, by repeated messages and threats from General Schuyler, too indelicate and cruel to be expected from a gentleman, I should wish to be with my friends at JSew-York, and would prefer my :

;

have the character of an ingenuous, artful people, and Therefore, my advery capable of finesse and cunning. vipp U nnf ton hut seem power, but you nnt put not too ninrh much in their nnwer. that vcu vice is, ihnf 1 would also have to trust them, rather tiian do it too far. you to keep all your posts, as you go, well secured, to guard G. W. against any treacherous conduct. the°y

captivity under your Excellency's protection, to being in the

power of General Schuyler, who rules with more severity than could be wished by your Excellency's humble ser-

general WASHINGTON TO GENERAL WARD. New- York, June

Sir

:

am now

1

to

16, 1776.

^^"^'

acknowledge the receipt of your favours

of the 27th ultimo and of the 3d and 6th instant ; and in answer to the firet, I think you were right in your direction to Mr. Bartktt about the brigantine Hannah, as Mr. Morris had written for one. The two schooners, considering their force and number of men, certainly behaved extremely well

GENERAL ARNOLD TO GENERAL SDLLIVAN. La

Dear all

Prairie,

June

In the morning,

the knees, &ic.

The

Sic, seized at Montreal.

W^e have destroyed

all

I

We

not stating the matter fully and the whole evidence, the

of their movements. I am, very respectfully, dear

mounted guard there



To

out, as the

a further still

I

am

:

I

have

this

Johns, June 16, 1776.

minute received a

me

that the batteaus

letter

from GeI wrote

which

the pur-

ordered lully

on

of pork

The sloop and schooner barrels of flour here. are arrived at the Isle Motte, with a considerable quantity, The schooner is loaded with dry -goods, shot, shells, &:c. I believe

company of Highlanders on our vessels keep a good look-

;

vi.

Sir

and eighty

whole fleet are bound to Boston which sailed more of them will fall into our hands. This proof that Government expected General Hoive

—Vol.

is

your obedient and hum-

We

favoured with youre of the 9ih instant, of the capture made by our armed vessels of

Fourth Series.

enemy

might be sent over the Lake and detained, for pose of bringing a number of the Militia who are I suppose he has written you into this country. have about nine hundred barrels the matter.

in Boston. extremely sorry that your health is more and more impaired and having heard by letter from Colonel Hancock that Mr. Whitcomb, Colonel Whitcomb's brother, is ap-

was

sir,

for

witli her, that is

of the

B. Arnold.

neral Schuyler, advising

is

if

I will

particular account has been received

St.

moment

myself,

which

al

five

Brigadier-General Sullivan, Chambly.

Dear

by way of JSova-Scotia.

transports, with a

down

GENERAL ARNOLD TO GENERAL SULLIVAN.

to hand when you wrote, as you have not acknowledged the receipt of it. 1 have enclosed two letters for Major Small and Charles Procter, Esquire, supposed to be at Halifax, which being written with a design to procure the enlargement of Captain Procter, a prisoner on board the Mercury man-of-war, or induce them to intercede for a more humane treatment to be shown him, I request you to forward by the first opportunity,

I flatter

thirty carts,

^^^ ^*^^^^"*'

come

;

could not be got over.

The number

last.

No

very considerable.

complaint should be reheard, and everything appertaining to particularly specified, for the manner of inlistment, &.c. it me to found my judgment on. The arms, &c., which you sent to Norwich, as mentioned in the invoice contained in that of the 6th, are not arrived. The number of carbines is only half of what General Putnam wrote for, as I have been informed, and it is less by three hundred than I directed to be sent in my letter from This I suppose had not Philadeljjhia, of the 28th ultimo.

me

had destroyed

I

sent Captain Wilkin-

send to Chambly as soon^ as t.hey are discharged o^f their Four or five of the enemy's vessels are as high as loading. Vercheres or Varenne. Our people saw their troops at tlie latter place, and a Frenchman from Montreal says they

;

one of the board and

salt

have

o'clock this evening.

advising

I

expect to be at St. Johns at

cannot but add, that it seems extraordinary to me and exceedingly strange, that Captain Lane should have been at so much trouble and expense to get the men, without having a right to them for which reason, to discountenance a practice extremely pernicious in its nature, of one officer trying to take away and seduce the men of another, and on account of the imperfection in the proceedings in

this

which

the batteaus, and will break

the bridges in our rear.

either in confirming or rejecting the sentence.

1

am

M.

m

;

I

o'clock A.

;

The detemiinaVion of the Court of Inquiry upon Colonel Varnum's complaint, transmitted in that of the .3d, is very different from what he expected, or I imagined it would be Whether it is right or wrong, it from his state of the case. is not in my power to determine, as the evidence which was before them is not inserted in the proceedings which ought to have been, as I, at this distance, can have no other means



1776—11

16,

received your letter from iSbreZof the 14th

I

son express to you at three o'clock he met the enemy at Varenne, and narrowly escaped being taken ; at five he arnved at Montreal; at seven P. M. I embarked the whole The eleven batteaus and got safe over garrison ade it seven o'clock before carts could be procured at Longueil and La Prairie to carry the sick and baggage. The whole are safe here, with some rum, molasses, wine,

fj^jg_

me

Sir:

instant, at three o'clock, previous to

the attack of such a number of boats ; and it is only to be lamented that the affair was attended with the death of Captain Mugford; he seemed to deserve a better in repelling

to warrant

M. Johnson.

59

it

will

done yet

be best to send her aw ay directly.

to fortify our

camp.

I

think

it

Nothing

requires

imme-

intended going to Chambly in the morning, but expect to have the pleasure of seeing you here, where I think we are secure at present I am, with great respect, dear sii-, your most humble serdiate attention.

I

vant,

To

B. Arnold.

General Sullivan, Chambly.

P. S. I have borrow ed several sums of hard money. I should be glad of four or five hundred pounds, if you can Will it not be best to give our paper money a spare it. currency, by declaiing those enemies who refuse it ? Unless

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

931 some such method benefit from

with their pockets

taken, the poor soldiers receive no in the midst of plenty,

blew up the Light-House

of money.

some

is

pay, and starve

their

full

B. Arnold.

Yours, fee,

To

he, JUNE,

General Sullivan, Sorcl.

sea with their

fleet.

I

932

1776. as they

think

it

went off, and then put to probable they will leave

frigates to cruise in the Bay. number of the Colony troops and Militia were to have thrown up a battery the same night on Petlick's Island and Nantasket Head, but by some unforeseen obstructions, they

A

did not get their cannon ready in time

the

COMMODORE HOPKINS TO CAPTAIN WHIPPLE. Newport, June

Sir

:

You

and

sible,

16,

1776.

are to go to sea with your ship as soon as poshave till your provisions are out or you

cruise,

weakened your

by manning

ship

prizes so as to

make

you

safe to crufse, in such places on our coast as

may

it

un-

think

be most likely to intercept the enemies of the United And you are to take and send into port for trial vessels belonging to or bound to Great Britain, and all

will

Colonies. all

other vessels with British property on board, and all vessels that you may suspect of having a design of supplying the

British

Army

Navy

or

or the enemies to the United Colo-

nies.

You are to send your prizes into the first port you can with most safety within the United Colonies, and transmit to the Marine Committee, or their agents, or to me, an account of your circumstances, as often as may be. If you take any transports, you are to take the principal If by distress you are obliged officers on board your ship. put into any port where the Congress have no agents, you are to draw on the Treasurers of the Congress, or on me, to

or on any of the agents, for your ship, or for necessaries.

To Abraham

what sum

is

sufficient to repair

EsEK Hopkins, Commander-in-Chief. Commander of the Ship

IMiipple, Esquire,

Columbus.

enemy

channel. ging,

;

however, they gave

number of shot as the ships passed through Our shot cut away some of their yards and a

and several went

into the ships' sides

the rig-

but the shells

;

from the mortar terrified them most. They returned a few shot from the Commodore's ship, without any effect, and got under sail with all expedition. 1 have proposed to the General Court to anchor a decoy ship where the man-of-war lay, w ith a broad pendant, in order to draw in the transports which may be coming this way. No Paymaster, nor money for the troops stationed here, have yet arrived, which delay has occasioned great difficulty, as there is now more than three months' pay due to the men. I have endeavoured to borrow the money of the General Court, but have not succeeded, the Treasury being nearly exhausted by large demands. I am your Excellency's obedient, humble servant,

Artemas Ward.

To

His Excellency General Washington.

P. S. Several invalids, belonging to the marching regiments, have applied to me to be turned over to other regiments, as they were not able to march, but I did not think

myself authorized

to

comply with

their request.

I

have

discharged three or four, who were likely to be of no service, but a burden to the Continent.

P. S. June 17.



I

have

just received

information that

the Continental Privateers have taken and brought into

Nan-

and a brig from Glasgow, with two hundred and ten Highland troops oa board, with their baggage the ship mounted six carriage-guns, and fought We had four the Privateers some time before she struck. men wounded the enemy had three privates and a Major The prisoners are killed, and eight or ten men wounded. coming up to town, among whom is a Colonel. Any furtasket, in this harbour, a ship

COMMODORE HOPKINS TO CAPTAIN BIDDLE. Newport, June

Sir

:

You

and

sible,

16, 1776.

are to go to sea with your brig as soon as pos-

cruise,

weakened your

till

brig

your provisions are out or you have

by manning

make it unyou may think

prizes so as to

on our coast as be most likely to intercept the enemies to the United And you are to take and send into port for trial Colonies. safe to cruise, in such places will

all vessels belonging to or bound to Great Britain, and all other vessels with any British property on board, and all vessels that you may suspect of having a design of supply-

Army

ing the

or

Navy

You are to send your prizes into the first port within the United Colonies that you can with most safety, and transmit to the Marine Committee, or their agents, or to me, an account of your circumstances, as often as may be. you take any

;

ther particulars that as soon as

I

may

be of importance,

transports,

you are

to take the principal

If by distress you should put on board your ship. into any port where the Congress have no agents, you are to draw on the Treasurers of the Congress, or on me, or on any of the agents, for what sum is sufficient to repair your

officers

I

shall forward

can learn them.

EDMUND PENDLETON AND OTHERS TO VIRGINIA DELEGATES IN CONGRESS.

of the enemies of the United Colo-

nies.

If

;

Williamsburgh, June 17, 1776.

Gentlemen: The

some time happened amongst the people in the disputed lands between representation to the Colony, and a Pennsijlvania and this Convention that a civil war was like to be the consequence if something was not done to prevent it, induced that body to take the subject into consideration, who were sorry to discover that a jealousy seemed to prevail in the governing powers of Pennsylvania of our intending the garrisons on the Ohio to influence that dispute, and to overawe their people whereas we only mean by them to protect our people and those in the contested settlement from the danger they are exposed to of Indian ravages, without the most distant view to offer any injury to our friends and neighconfusion which hath for

;

brig, or for necessaries.

To

Nicholas

EsEK Hopkins, Commander-in-Chief. Biddle, Esq., Commander of the Brigantine

Andrew Doria.

bours,

VB'ilh

GENERAL WARD TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Boston, June 16, 1776.

Sir

:

Last evening

I

received Major Harrison's letter of

the lOth instant, and, agreeably to your desire, have directed Lieutenant Martin to be ready as soon as possible to set out for

New- York. The i;3th instant,

whom

it

is

our inclination as well as interest to

A

temporary boundary appeared to the Convention the only means of quieting the people, until we have leisure to refer the final decision to some arbitrating power between us and in fixing that, they judged that to point a line which would most nearly leave the inhabitants in the country they respectively settled under, would be most likely to give and having examined several gentlegeneral satisfaction men well acquainted with that country, who were of opinion that end would be answered by the line described in the enclosed resolution, they have resolved to propose that line to the Pennsylvania Assembly, and have commanded us to unite.

;

;

at evening, I ordered five

hundred men,

with proper officers, a detachment of the train, with a thirtecn-inch mortar, two eighteen-pounders, and some small

cannon, under the command of Colonel fVhitcomb, to take the nepost on Long-Island, to annoy the enemy's ships cessary works were thrown up in the night, and next morning our cannon and mortar began to play upon the pirates, which soon drove them all out of the harbour. The fleet consisted of thirteen in number the Renown, of fifty guns, several smaller ships of war, and some transports with Highlanders on board. As near as we could judge, there were about eight hundred troops on board the transports. They

to you, requesting that you would negotiate the such manner as you shall think most effectual. are, with great regard, gentlemen, your obedient,

transmit

;

matter

it

in

We humble

servants,

Edmund Pendleton, Thomas Lud. Lee, William Cabell, Dudley Diggs,

:

P. Carrington,

To

Jos. Jones.

the Honourable the Virginia Delegates in Congress.

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS, he, JUNE,

933

you may have an order

FREDERICK COUNTY (MARYLAND) COMMITTEE. In Committee for the

Lower

District of FrcJerick

June

County,

17, 1776.

177G.

934

}

on complying with the terms proscribed by the Convention. We are, he.

i

To

Present: Jonathan Wilson, Esq.. (in theClwir,) Edward Burgess, Robert Owen, Thomas Cramphin, Jun., Charles (l. Griffith, Zaclock Mngrudcr, Samuel W. Magrtuler, Gerard Briscoe, Archibald Orrne, Allen Bowie, Thomas S. iVoot-

for

Captain Isaac Vanbibber, Babimore-tmm.

P. S. If any cliange be necessary about repairing tlie vessels, application must be made to the Convr;nlion we cannot give liciMise to the owners themselves to repair, or ;

oblige

them so

to do.

ton.

Resolved, unanimously, That our sole and primary intention in appointing Delegates to meet in Convention was, to regulate the mode of opposition necessary to be nrade by us internally against the arbitrary machinations of the British

NEW-YORK DKLEOATES TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS. I'hiladclphia,

Sir

sense of the majority of the Colonies, would best secure the natural and inherent rights of the people generally.

resolve.

We

Resolved, unanimouslij That all just and legal Government was instituted for the ease and convenience of the

received great pleasure from knowing the sentiments of the honourable the Convention relative to the important subject on which we thought it our duty to ask their opi-

,

People, and that the People have the indubitable right to reform or abolish a Government which may appear to them insufficient for the exigency of their affairs. Resolved, unanimouslij, That what may be recommended by a majority of the Congress, equally delegated by the people of the United Colonies, we will, at the hazard of our and that every lives and fortunes, support and maintain resolution of Convention tending to separate this Province

We

nion.

we

shall

To

Resolved, unanimously. That as a knowledge of the conduct of the Representative is the constituent's only principle and permanent security, we claim the right of being fully informed therein, unless in the secret operations of war ; and

body from

whom

Philadelpliia,

In Committee, Baltimore, June 17, 1776.

Com-

you had application by letter from Dr. Stevenson that two casks of gunpowder were taken from him, for which he never had been paid, this Committee desire that you will please to transmit them a copy of said letter that they may have an opportunity of answering They have further to inform you that an apthe charge. plication has been made by Dr. Stevenson for a barrel of gunpowder, which he imported from Philadelphia, and was but as he has neither signed

the Association nor enrolment, he stands in the light of an to

trust so

America, and therefore it would be dangerous to in his hands they therefore desire

much powder

;

your orders therein. We are, gentlemen, your most humble servants, Sajiuel Purviance, Jun., Chairman. William Lux, J. Griest,

Andrew Buchanan, Thomas Sollers, Thomas Harrison, John E. Howard,

To

thousand seven hundred and twenty-five and a half silver dollars, and three boxes containing one hundred and eightyseven thousand paper dollars. I am to request you will please to discharge the Philadelphia guard, and order a fresh guard to proceed with the money to General Schuyler, or the Paymaster, Mr. Trumbull, in such manner as you shall judge best, and either in the same wagon or another, Please to forward by the officer of the as you shall direct. guard the enclosed letter. I have the honour to be,

that

;

17, 1776.



BALTIMORE COMMITTEE TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY.

received into the publick store

June

I

:

;

Simon Nicholls, Clerk.

enemy

New- York.

wrote you by express yesterday, and enclosed you all the resolutions of Congress to that time since which nothing has occurred. This will be handed to you by Captain Bradford, who has in charge the money destined for three boxes containing twenty-one the Army in Canada

Sir

Signed per order

Lux,

the Honourable Nathaniel Woodhull, President of the

president of congress to general WASHINGTON.

power to enforce such laws is vested in one man, or in one body of men, a tyranny is established. Resolved, unanimously, That these Resolutions be immediately printed in the Maryland Gazette.

mittee by Mr.

our power to

in

sir,

to that

he derives his authority.

Information having been given to this

it

be careful

remain,

Provincial Congress,

Resolved, unanimously. That the Legislative, Judicative, Executive, and Military powers, ought to be separate, and that in all countries where the power to make laws and the

Gentlemen:

having

Francis Lewis, William Floyd, R. H. Livingston, Henry \Visneb. John Alsop,

publick ruin.

amenable

in

to regulate our future conduct. with the greatest respect, your and the Convention's most obedient and humble servants,

We

from a majority of the Colonies, without the consent of the people, is destructive to our internal safety, and big with

shall ever hold the Representative

happy

are very

them that we have hitherto taken no steps inconsistent with their intention, as expressed in their letter, by which

assure

;

we

17, 1776.

by your favours of the 1 Itli Inst. A resolution of Congress has passed agreeable to your intention, restraining the exportation of salt beef and pork from any of these Colonies, under the limitations mentioned in your

Ministry, and to appoint Delegates to meet oui' sister Colonies in Congress, to recommend such measures as, by a

that

June

We were honoured

:

To

President.

General Washington.

PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Pliiladelphia,

Sir

:

June

17, 1776.

Enclosed you have invoice of three boxes of

silver

21,725i dollars; also, invoice of three boxes, containing 187,000 paper dollars, which I wish safe to hand, for the use of the Army in Catiada ; more hard money will soon follow, and in a few days shall send on some more paper money. I wish soon to hear a more favourable account of our affaire in Canada. In a few days I shall write you, and enclose you the resolutions of Congress, which are almost perfected, and when dollars, containing

shall I

To

the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland.

your very humble servant,

John Hancock,

executed

Benjamin Nicholson, William Aisquith, Darby Lux.

sir,

I

think will

much promote

the general good.

You

have them as early as possible after they are complete. am, in great haste, sir, your very humble servant, John H.wicocK, President.

General Schuyler.

In his absence, to Mr. Trumbull,

Deputy Paymaster-General, or Canada.

to

Commander-in-Chief

in

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN VANBIBBER. [No. 25.]

PENNSYLVANIA COMJIITTEE OF SAFETY TO PRESIDF.NT OF

Annapolis, June 17, 1776.

Sir: By the resolves of the Convention, one thousand pounds were appropriated for the building of one or more Five hundred pounds have been already Powder-Mills. drawn by a gendeman in Charles County, named Hanson, upon his" giving bond with security to erect a Powder-Mill there remain five hundred pounds unappropriated, which ;

CONGRESS. [Read June IS, 1776.] Pliiladelphia,

Sir:

An

number of

application has been

made

June

to this

17, 1776.

Board by a

persons, prisoners on board the Liverpool, to neexchange for the seamen who belonged to the

gotiate their

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

935

The perKing's ships, and are now prisoners in this city. sons who apply for this exchange are either such as have been taken on board merchant ships, or boats that ply in the This Committee think that able seamen, river and bay. taken on board tlie King's ships, are very improper to be exchanged for such persons as make this application ; and as the enemy are at this time greatly distressed for seamen, an exchange would be prejudicial to the general service. This Committee would be glad to have the sentiments of

Congress upon this matter as soon as possible. By order of the Committee :

John Nixon, Chairman.

To

JUNE,

1776.

936

Third. Because the Counties which have the greatest

number of Associators have

not a proportional representa-

and therefore cannot be considered as having an equal

tion,

voice

in

the nomination.

Fourth. Because the Association has been voluntary, and this House choosing, by their Resolutions respecting it, that so, therefore cannot interfere, nor in anyit should remain wise, consistent with decency, attempt to impose officers our us not of own choosing. upon Fifth. Because many members of this House are the representatives of persons in religious profession, like themselves, totally averse to military defence, and therefore cannot be called the representatives of Associators nor do we wish to interfere so mucli with their religious sentiments as to reduce them to the necessity of quitting their seats or joining in the nomination. ;

the Honourable John Hancock, Esq.

TO THE PRIVATES OF THE SEVERAL BATTAI^IONS OF MILITARY ASSOCIATORS IN THE PROVINCE OF PENNSYLVANIA.

Gentlemen: The honourable Congress having resolved upon a flying camp of ten thousand men, for the protection of our Province and Maryland, viz six thousand for this Province, six hundred for the lower Counties, and three thousand four hundred for Maryland, and that Maryland should appoint one, and this Colony two Brigadiers-General the Committee of Privates of the Associators of the City and Liberties of Philadelphia, considering that an appointment made by any body of men besides the Associators would not be perfectly satisfactory; and being further con:

vinced that

it

was

their right to

make

the appointment, and depended greatly on the

that the security of their liberties

exercise of this right, and being desirous of having

it

enjoy-

have agreed with the Board of Officers to call a Provincial meeting of Associators, consisting of two Privates and two Officers from each Battalion, elected by ed equally by

all,

the said Battalions, for the purpose of choosing said Generals, to meet in Lancaster, on Thursday, the 4th of July.

We

&c.,

Because it is well known that there are men in House who have, ever since our opposition to Great Britain, refused to concur in any measure necessary for deand we have reason to fear that some are disposed to fence break the Union of the Colonies, and submit to the tyranny Sij:th.

this

;

of Great Britain. Seventh. Because to their constituents, sult

their interests

;

this House is under no oaths of fidelity by which they would be bound to con-

nor are they proper persons to

make

the oaths which are to bind themselves.

Eighth. Because, though the members of this House, who were under oaths of allegiance to the Crown, consider themselves absolved therefrom, and have admitted the new elected members to their seats without taking oaths, thereby dissolving the old Constitution,

and

finally abolishing

the

Charter yet effectual care is taken to head the several pages of their Resolves, as usual, with " Votes of Assembly. John Penn, Esq., Governour," without the assent of the These things wear such a face of people for this purpose. design as renders the intentions of this House suspicious and we think a House still confessing the King's representative their Governour, cannot safely be trusted with the appointment of Generals to command us, lest it would give us such ;

;

attended particularly to the season of the year, and the your attending so near harvest but yet, as the

difficulty of

;

matter was very important, and we were unwilling to do anything without consulting all, and giving them an equal opportunity with ourselves of exercising their right, we adopted We, therefore, were persuaded, that freemen, this measure. associated for the defence of their rights, would overlook every difficulty attending a perfect and free exercise of it.

Our Assembly (we mean such

of

its

members

as are not

have the appointment, but we prepared the following Protest against it, as the whole of our We trust you will see success depends on a proper choice. it in the same important light with us, and send the delequite with us) wished to

gation above-mentioned, that every Battalion in the Province may have a perfectly equal representation. Associators, that

some

be taken depend on, take nothing upon ourselves,

If said conference should unite in

by the

test to

we might know who

to

We wish to might be well. but being the advance-guard, our duty requires that we give We are, gentlemen, &c. the alarm. Signed by order of the Committee of Privates Samuel Simpson, President. it

:

would enable a certain party to make up with the enemy expense of our lives and liberties. Ninth. Because a House which showed itself so unfriendly to the Association at a time when so much depended upon their exertions, as, after frequent and repeated applications for justice, to impose no more than three shillings and six pence fine on Non-Associators for every day of general muster, and that in so lax a manner that it is a question whether it will ever be collected, is not to be trusted with the appointment of Generals to command us, lest they should show as little regard to our interest in the one case as in the

as

at the

other.

Tenth. Because as

this

who were acknowledged enemy, and derived

their

House was chosen by those only George our sole right of electing this House

the liege subjects of

from that very circumstance, we conceive that the moment they undertook to set aside this allegiance, they, by that very act, destroyed the only principle on which they sat as Representatives, and therefore they are not a House on and having the principles on which they were elected derived no new authority from the people, freed from such allegiance, they are a representative body on no one principle whatever, and therefore can in no manner undertake to do the business of Representatives further than the people indulge them, without usurping authority and acting ;

To

the

of the Freemen of Province of Pennsylvania

Honourable the

the Representatives

:

The Protest of the Committee of

the Privates

tary Association belonging to the City Philadelphia, respectfully showeth

of the Miliand Liberties of

Committee, understanding that the honourable Congress has recommended to this Colony to appoint two Brigadiers-General to command the Associators of this Province, do protest against any appointment of said BrigadiersGeneral to be made by this House First. Because there is no regular Militia law which

That

this

obliges the constituents of this

House

to

become Associators,

or to find persons in their room, if they decline associating and therefore the Association is not properly Provincial,

and of consequence this House is not properly constituted to be competent to the business, nor can the appointment come before them as a Provincial representation. Second. Because many of the Associatore have been excluded by this very House from voting for the members now composing it, though this House was applied to on their behalf, and therefore they are not represented in this House.

arbitrarily.

Eleventh. Because the Associators have the right of appointing officere to tain

command

them, and mean ever to re-

it.

We,

and declare we will not any appointment of General Officers to command us which this House may think proper to go into. Nevertheless, that the Resolve of Congress may be fully complied with, we have taken the proper steps to have a numsubmit

therefore, protest against,

to,

ber of Associators, Representatives from every Battalion

in

the Province, collected together as soon as possible, to proceed to the choice of said Brigadiers-General, under whom we doubt not but the Associators will serve with cheerfulness and they, being the officers of their choice, will have the

confidence of the Associators.

Signed by order of the Committee of Privates Samuel Simpson, President. :

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

937

the Honourahle the House of Representatives of the Freemen of the Province of Pennsylvania, in General

To

Assembly met

:

The Protest of the Board of Officers of the Five Battalions of the City and Liberties 0/ Philadelphia, respectfully showeth

JUNE,

1776.

respectful compliments to Congress,

and that I have the honour to be, with every sentiment of regard and esteem, and your obedient most humble most servant, sir,

George Washington.

To

the President of Con"ress.

:

Board address you by the title lieretofore used honourable House of Assembly, in order to avoid the least appearance of disrespect to the honouraljle Members now sitting. That this Board has received information that the honourable Congress of the United Colonies has re-

That

fee,

GENERAL SULLIVAN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON.

this

to the

commended to this Colony to appoint two Brigadiers Geneand we, ral, to command the Associators of this Province apprehending that this House may be induced to take upon ;

nominate and appoint the said Brigadiers-General without having the authority of the Associators for that purpose, and further apprehending that any nomination made by this honourable House will not give satisfaction to die Associators of the Province, and consequently that they for these, and other weighty and will not act under them, important considerations, this Board do hereby protest against this honourable House making, or attempting to make, the said appointments. Signed by order

them

to



Daniel Roberdeau,

President.

GENERAL. WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New- York, June 17, 1776. to inform Congress that General JVoosHead-Quarters in obedience to their reand shall be extremely glad if they solve transmitted him will give me such further directions about him as they may

Sir

:

I

beg leave

ter has repaired to

;

He

conceive necessary. Connecticut, as

I

am

is

desirous of seeing his family in

informed, having been a good while

I shall await their instructions as to his future emfrom it. ployment. 1 am, sir, with sentiments of much esteem, your most obedient servant,

Sorcl,

Dear General:

just representation of our alfaiis in

that

be possible

if it

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read June 18, 1776.]

New-York, June

17, 1776.

Sir: The enclosed came to my hands as a private letter from General Sullivan. As a private letter, I lay it before Congress. The tendency (for it requires no explanation) will account for the contrast between it and the letter of General Arnold. That the former is aiming at the command in Canada is obvious whether he merits it or not, is a matter to be considered and that it may be considered with propriety, I think it my duty to observe, as of my own knowledge, that he is active, spirited, and zealously attached to the cause. That he does not want abilities, many members of Congress, as well as myself, can testify but he has his wants, and he ;

;

;

The latter are manifested in a little tincture of vanity, and in an over-desire of being popular, which now and then leads him into some embarrassments. His wants has his foibles.



1770.

your Excellency or General LeeI suppose Ge-

for

come here, that it might be done, though neral Lee cannot be spared from where he persuaded that Canada would be ours from to

your Excellency's

arrival

;

I

is.

the

am

well

moment

of

but in case neither of you can

come to take command, I beg that, if any other officer is sent to take it, 1 may have leave to return, as I am well convinced that the same disorder and confusion which has almost ruined our Army here would again take place, and complete its destruction, which I should not wish to see. This confusion and disorder your Excellency discovered in some degree on your arrival at Cambridge. And if your Excellency or General Lee cannot come to take the command, we that are on the spot will undertake to keep possession of the ground we have, and keep advancing our posts till we have, by the assistance of Heaven, completed the wishes of Congress and fulfilled the desires of your Excellency. 1 have the honour to be, your most obedient servant,

To

may

it

please your Excellency,

j^^^ Sullivan.

His Excellency General Washington.

general WASHINGTON TO PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. New-York, June

17, 1776.

was this evening honoured with yours of the 15th instant, and it is with no small degree of pain that I am under the necessity of informing you it is out of my power at this time to comply with the request made by your hoThe many important works carrying on nourable body. for the defence of this place, against which there is the highest probability of an attack being made in a litde Ume, will not allow me to spare from hence any person having the least skill in the business of an Engineer nor have 1 but one on whose judgment I would wish to depend in laying Congress well out any work of the least consequence. know my wants in this instance, and several of my late letters to them have pressed the appointment of gentlemen Added to this, on account of the qualified for the business. deficiency, I have not been able to improve or secure two Sir:

the President of Congress.

7,

I think,

say every person here will witness to, I must beg you to excuse my giving you the trouble of one petition, which is,

George Washington.

To

June

given you a Canada, which 1 dare

After having, as

I

;

posts in the Highlands, esteemed of the utmost importance to

prevent the

enemy

passing up the

North River, and

get-

Colony, should our But I beg attempts to stop them here prove inefFectuaJ. you to be assured, sir, and to inform the Committee, as soon ting

as

into

it is

in

the

interior

my power

parts

I shall,

of

with

this

infinite

pleasure, direct a

want of experience to move upon for the limited and contracted knowledge a large scale which any of us have in military mattei-s, stand in very little stead, and is greatly overbalanced by sound judgment, and some knowledge of men and books, especially when accompanied by an enterprising genius, which 1 must do General Stdlivan the justice to say 1 think he possesses. But as the

person to attend them for two or three days, if the service will not admit of a longer absence, in order to trace out such works and plans for carrying them on as shall appear ne-

Canada is of the last importance to the well-being of these Colonies, I should hke to know the sentiments of respecting Congress the nomination of any officer to that command. The character I have drawn of General Sullivan is just, according to my ideas of him. Congress will

George Clymer, Esq., Chairman of the Committee of

are

common

to us all

the

;

security of

determine upon the propriety of continuing him in Canada, or sending another, as they shall see Whether General Sullivan knew of the promotion of fit. General Gates, (at the time of his writing,) and that he had quitted the department he left him in when he marched his

be pleased, therefore,

1

my

non-compliance

to

\\

ant of ability, and not inclination, to perform your request,

1

have the honour, &c.,

To

^^^^^^^ Washington.

Safety of Pennsylvania.

JOSEPH TRUMBULL TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read June 18, 1776.]

to

New- York, June

17, 1776.

I cannot undertake to say, determine whether his wish to be recalled would

Sir: I have found it necessary to send to Philadelphia to purchase, and have there purchased, twentythousand barrels of flour ibr the supply of the Army in and near this place and that in Canada, wliich it seems by General Schuyler's last letters cannot be subsisted by the

my

quantity to be had in that country; and on that information

brigade from hence to Canada,

nor can

cessary; and wishing you to ascribe

be changed by

it

if

he

did.

I shall

add no more than

Dear

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

939

do

fee,

JUNE,

conceiving that

1776. should be justified

General Washington lias ordered mo to ship dour from hence to Albany, which 1 am now doing. The demand here being so much increased, and finding I could get that article from Philadelphia delivered here something cheaper than 1 could purchase here even now, thought myself justified in taking the measure; and as it cannot be effected without cash, and the chest here not being over-supplied, I have

to

taken the liberty to draw on you. of this date, in favour of Mr. Matthew Irwin, o{ rhiladelphia, for sixty thousand dollars, payable at four days' sight, which, 1 hope, you will honour with payment, and have charged to me accord-

cellency's orders on the subject.

ingly. ^I have likewise desired Mr. Iruin to purchase me what If he can purchase any, I pork he can in Philadelphia. shall have occasion to draw on you in his favour for a further sum, which I shall do unless I am forbid by return of the post. I wish your direction whether I may or may not draw on you from time to time for such sinns as I may want to

use

in

Philadelphia

the

for necessaries for

Army.

am, dear sir, with great esteem and respect, your most obedient, humble servant, j^^^^.^ Tiiumbull. I

To

the Hon.

John Hancock, Esq.

it,

I

940 in

delegating

which would be occasioned by waiting for my consent might prove prejudicial to the service, and that I requested he would also proceed to order that power, as the delay

execution It

such cases, unless he thought proper to pardon. well, however, as I conceive, to obviate any that might arise, that he should have your Ex-

in

would we

difficulties

I am happy that I have anticipated your Excellency's advice to convene the Indians, of which I informed your Excellency in mine of the 11th instant, and in that of the J 5th, which you will receive by this conveyance, enclosing the resolutions of the Commissioners of Indian AfMr. Douw and Mr. Edwards fairs, of the 13th instant.

have requested me to prepare a speech part of which I have drafted, and as soon as completed, which I hope will be in a day or two, I shall do myself the honour to forward I am quite in sentiment with your Excellency it to you. that it will be proper to omit saying anything about the time of taking post at Fort Stanwix, but we are under a ;

necessity of informing the Indians that

No

post that

we can

we

possess between the

intend doing

it.

German Flats

and Fort Stanwix can prevent the enemy from intercepting any convoys going to the latter, unless they are sufficiently but to guard against strong to make effectual resistance this evil, I propose to send immediately a sufficient supply for some months, and provisions have already procured of ;

To His

Excellency

George Washington,

Esq.,

er-in-Chief of the Continental Forces

The Memorial o/ Garret Roorback, of the York, humbly showeth :

Command:

City

o/ New-

That on the 18th day o( January last, your Memorialist was appointed by the Committee of Safety in the City of New- York to the office of Barrackmaster, for the said City and County. That he has acted in that capacity ever since, in subordination to the Barrackmaster-General and flattered himself tliat he had fully discharged the duty of his office, and ;

given general satisfaction. That your Memorialist, however, has been so unhappy

conduct have been made to Colonel Moylan, the present Quartermaster-General, who has forbid him to act any longer as Barrackmaster as to find that complaints respecting his

as aforesaid.

That your Memorialist has not been informed of the

par-

of the charge against him, and is apprehensive that some evil-minded person or persons, who are not friendly to the cause of American freedom, and who are enemies to your Memorialist, are the authors of this charge, widi a ticulars

view

to deprive

him of

his office.

That your Memorialist, being conscious

that he has executed the duty of his office to the utmost of his ability, is desirous that he may be made acquainted with the nature of the accusation against him, and that some proof may be given to convict him of the same. Your Memorialist therefore humbly prays that your Excellency will be pleased to order that, before another is appointed in his stead to the office he now enjoys, he may have an opportunity of defending himself agamst an accusation which he is convinced is ill founded and unjust.

Garret Roorback. New-York, June

17, 1776.

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Albany, June 17, 1776.

Dear Sib: Bennett arrived at eight last night, and livered me your Excellency's favour of the 13th ultimo. 1

was apprehensive

New- York, and

blacksmiths here

in

instant) to collect all

German

de-

few intrenching tools could be

therefore I employed all the making what they could, and have the Committee of Tryon County (on the 15th

spared from written to

that

they could as soon as possible at the

by these means siderable number. Flats

;

Your Excellency's

I

hope

to procure a

con-

General Sullivan I have I have transcribed that part of yours to me which relates to Bedel's and Butterfield's conduct, and the appointment of CourtsMartial, and have observed that as General Montgomery imagined that he could not, without my consent, order punishment to be inflicted when offenders were capitally conletter

to

sent under cover of one of mine, in which

victed, that I had, agreeable to his request, authorized

him

forty-seven batteaus for that purpose.

The German Flats is so respectable a settlement, and the country about the Canajoharie Falls below it now so well inhabited, that I do not apprehend any attempts will be made to intercept our provisions, &,c., at that place. It will be proper, however, to have a small picket fort on the western part of the

the Militia,

in

German

Flats, as a place of rendezvous for

case any attempt should be

made on

the fort

intended to be built near to where Fort Stanwix formerly The Oneidas, who live only twenty-four miles from stood. that place,

and

I

believe are very sincerely attached to us,

doubt not, give us the most early intelligence of the motions of the enemy in that quarter and a body of Militia may be sent up whenever there may be occasion. The spot where Ticonderogn now stands was, I conceive, very judiciously occupied by the French, because it commanded both the passes by water into these Colonies, and afforded an easy access to any reinforcements they might choose to send up, as well as a safe retreat whenever they But although might be under the necessity of making one. it equally commands, now in our possession, the waters which will, 1

;

lead to this part of the country, yet

it

is

so situated that,

if

by Lake George is immediately cut off. Nor can any attempt be made to raise a siege unless such a number of boats were always kept at the south end of Lake George as would be sufficient to convey a superior force at one embarkation across Lake George, and even then many difficult passes If a fortress must be carried before an enemy need retire. was erected on the east side of Lake Cham^lain, nearly opposite to Ticonderoga, it would equally command both communications, with this advantage, that the Militia of the Northern Colonies are more at hand for immediate succour, may all march by land to the fort, and attempt to raise a siege, whilst their provisions may be conveyed by fVood Creek, the waters of which are navigable to within thirteen But, as I have already observed miles of Fort Edward. in mine of the 15th, we have no men, and, I may add, no implements, even to put Ticonderoga in a state of defence. Enclose your Excellency copy of a letter from Colonel Wynkoop, and another from my assistant Secretary at Fort George ; the return of the garrison mentioned in the latter did not come to hand. 1 suppose it was forgotten to be

invested by an army, the intercourse with the

fort

enclosed.

The scandalous desertion which prevails in our Army causes very disagreeable reflections, especially as, through the mistaken lenity of the officers, that inadequate punishment which our military code permits to be inflicted, seldom is. Congress imagined that two regiments could be raised for campaign's service out of the corps that served last winter in Canada. I very early gave them my opinion that In obeit was impracticable. I wish I had been mistaken. this

dience to their commands,

1

pointment of the

was disapproved of

officers.

It

suggested a plan for the apin

Canada.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

941 then

I

left it to

nelcy

a

by General Woostcr and the

regiment

commanded by General

Woostcr, and

which corps never had any information officially given me) was appointed by General Woostcr Colonel to one of the two intended regiments; Nicolson was the other; and both are come away from Canada, and, if common fame says true, raised for the winter service, of the raising of 1

have no other information,) not an officer or man of is left in Canada, nor do I know that they have any about nineteen or twenty, lately gone to excepting men, Ticonderoga, of a Ca])tain Cochran's Company, which is the mighty work of several recruiting officers of Elmore's (for I

either

Regiment, who have had large sums advanced them, so early as the

month of Eehniartj,

for the recruiting service.

of the officers have applied to me for money but as 1 neither knew them, nor by whose leave from Canada, I did not choose to risk any more.

Some more to recruit

they

;

came

however, write to Colonel Elmore and Colonel Ni-

I shall,

colson to repair to this place, and take their orders, not that

expect any considerable good will result from it perhaps would be better to break both regiments, and reappoint such of the officers as are proper to be employed, and cause them to inlist men during the war. I am happy that your Excellency had not ordered pay to any officers from Canada. The Paymaster-General here has orders to settle with them and notwithstanding all the care that both he and 1 have been able to take, some have drawn double pay, and others are gone off without accounting for moneys they had received from General Montgomery. Other officers. Committees, Stc, one in particular, a Captain Stewart, of Eastons Regiment, who I cannot get into my possession, has defrauded the publick, as I am informed, of near two hundred pounds, although he swore to his pay-roll. I have been under the necessity, to prevent clamour, of granting warrants to persons who had never been returned to me as officers serving in Canada, but who 1 was convinced had served as such. It was very irregular in me, but occasioned by the negligence of never deigning to send me a return from, or letting me know what was doing in, CanaMuch money to the publick, and much trouble would da. be saved, and a great deal of fraud would be prevented, if Regimental Paymasters were appointed, especially where troops are so continually on the move as they are to the northward. I had got thus far, when I was honoured with your Excellency's of the 14th instant. It is certain that what I intended for a requisition of cannon I find, on reperusal, was not sufficiently explicit. I hope, however, that I have not often given cause for the observation, and I hope some allowance will be made on account of the infinite variety of I

;

it

;

business I

am

driven to attend

to.

think eight pieces of cannon and carriages will do

I



Ticonderoga, June 10,

A

am

this

moment informed

Mr. Livingston's

two tons of pow-

that about

which

send be needless to send any for the western service, but a considerable quantity is wanted in Canada ; but as I have no return from thence, I cannot is

at

I

for.

believe

it

Mill,

will instantly

I

will therefore

possibly specify the quantity.

I

must also beg your Excel-

lency to order up two tons of lead, either most convenient.

in ball

or staves, as

;

;

teen of Colonel Baterson's

shall

it will again confine me to my room. 1 have bed most part of the afternoon, which has occasioned my detaining Bennett. I am, with the most sincere regard, dear sir, your Excel-

to fear that

been

in

lency's obedient •'

To

humble

servant,

„ Philip

Regiment deserted

last

night.

morning only that the deserters go across about three miles from this place, and go by the way of No. 4. The garrison at present is so weakly manned, 1 have just that I could spare no men to send after them. now ordered an officer, with a party of men, to fetch the I

have understood

this

the fellow who sets the deserters across. row-galley arrived here yesterday, the Captain of which brought me a letter from the Commodore, who writes me that the commanding officer at St. Johns ordered the

away from

boat

The

row-galley off to Ticonderoga, contrary to the General's and has ordered the Captain to take in salt, belonging to one Mrs. Tucker, who is landed at Crown Foint, as

orders,

me. There are one hundred and fifty which I have ordered, and is now in store, and shall wait your Honour's order what must be done with it. The Commodore's letter is dated the 7th instant he writes me that our Army is gone down to Point Deschambault, where they mean to make a stand. I am, your Honour's very humble servant, the Captain

bushels of

tells

salt,

;

Cornelius Wynkoop.

To

Major-General Philip Schuyler, Esq.

JOHN LANSING,

JUN., ASSISTANT

TAIN VARICK.

SECRETARY, ETC, TO CAPEXTRACT. Fort George, June 13, 1776.

Downes's Companies, to go On Wednesoff for Canada, I received on Tuesday last. day, Colonel Gansevoort communicated them to the officers, with directions to embark immediately, who pretended that they wanted a day to prepare themselves, and solicited very ardently to have their departure delayed till the subsequent day Colonel Gansevoort at last complied with their request. Yesterday morning upon calling the rolls, upwards of twenty were found to have deserted, the rest went off with eviPray communicate this to the Genera!. dent reluctance.

The

orders to Stevens's and

;

A

true copy.

Attest:

Richard Varick, Secretary

to

Major-Gen. Schuyler.

JOHN LANSING,

JUN.,

TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Fort George, June 14, 1776.

Sir: By the enclosed memorandum, you will perceive that seven hundred and eighty barrels of flour and eightyfour of pork have been forwarded since your departure seventy -seven of the former and twelve of the latter remain at this post.

still

Colonel Gansevoort has sent off so many of his men to Ticonderoga with provisions, that he says he cannot immediately comply with your order with respect to carrying the batteaus across the Lake. He proposes to forward as many to-morrow morning as possible. The Colonel has ordered a scouting party, consisting of four officers and three pri-

immediately write to the different Governments who are to send Militia, agreeable to your Excellency's ordei-s, and send the route I would wish them to take. My disorder has again attacked me severely, and I begin I

770.

four

nine-pounders and as many of six, with one hundred rounds the necessary im])lements, which 1 cannot more particularly specify, as 1 have not one artilleryman here. dozen Artillerymen will also be wanted. These men and articles your Excellency will please to order up. I

1

Sik: Your favours of the Clh and 8ih instant I have this moment only received. The letter the General mentions, I have sent with Lieutenant .SVoc/wt//, of Captain O' flora's Company, to Slcencshorough, where I expected he would we have since understood by some of the find the General men that returned, that the letters were sent after the General by one of the men that went with the Lieutenant. Of the prisoners that came here from St. Johns, of Colonel Bedel's Regiment, there are only fifteen men left, except Ninethe rest have all deserted. a few in the hospital

to each, with

der

942

1776.

CAPTAIN WYNKOOP TO GF,NER\L SCHUYLER.

offi-

year, and was promoted to a Lieutenant-Colo-

last in

settled

JUNE,

Lieutenant-Colonel Elmore (who had been a

cers there.

Major

be

&ic.,



Schuyler.

vates.

Should the enemy pay a visit at this post, they must inevitably succeed in destroying all the stores and batteaus which remain here, as the garrison is in no condition to preEnclose a return of the garrison. Colonel Ganscvoort's desire, I have sent three casks of nails to Albany, with directions to the wagoner to deliver them to Mr. Livingston. 1 am, sir, very respectfully, your most humble servant, John Lansing, Jun. vent

His Excellency General Washington.

P. S. Bennett has now received ten dollars on account. Enclose an extract of a letter just received from Fort George, with a return of provisions forwarded from thence.

it.

By

To

the Honourable General Schuyler.

P. S. Forty barrels of pork are arrived since writing the above.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

943

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GOVERNOUR TRUJIBULL.

port that the foreign

Albany, June 17, 1776.

Dear

Sir:

The

Commissioners of /«(/!fl« Afi'airs have taken in the enclosed resolutions [of June 13] needs an apology. They were really at a loss how to accomplish the intentions of Congress without your aid, but, assured of your zeal and attention to the common cause, they hoped your Honour would excuse their freedom. I shall be happy to be honoured with a line, conveying to me your opinion on the subject of the enclosed, and whether you think the company can be speedily raised. By a letter from General Sullivan of the 6th instant, our affairs in Canada Jiave begun to regain a more favourable aspect. May gracious Heaven indulgently smile on our future operations, and baffle the most nefarious intentions of our inveterate foes, is my most fervent wish. General ff'ashinglon has ordered me to send your Honour a route by which I might wish the two battalions of Militia from your Colony destined for Canada should march. I have ordered all the battalions out of Lake George to Ticonderoga, from whence they will be conveyed to Skenesborough, to which place I wish the battalions to march by the most direct road, advising me by express some days before they begin the march, that I may take measures accordingly. If they have any baggage it must be sent with a small guard by this place to Fort George, in such time as to arrive at Ticonderoga before the troops, and should therefore set out five days before the troops.

Be

liberty the

pleased to forward the enclosed by express as di-

&;c.,

JUNE,

1776.

944

French King has protested against the sending

troops to America.

We

ought not, however, to

make any dependance on it, lest it should be thrown out to make us remiss in our defensive preparations. I am anxious to learn the events of the expedition under the command of General Thompson. I hope it will be a happy one. Adieu, my dear General. I am, very truly and with much esteem, your obedient, humble servant, „ „

Philip ochuyler.

To

General Sullivan.

meeting or INHABITANTS OF HARTFORD.

At

meeting of the inhabitants of Neiv-Hartford, legally convened on the 18th day of June, 1776: \V hereas of late there has been an extravagant advance on IVest-India goods, Rum in particular It is resolved by said inhabitants, That they will not purchase any West-India Rum at a higher price than four shillings and six pence per gallon by the hogshead, and four shillings and nine pence per gallon by the barrel, and six shillings per single gallon and they will not purchase any JSew-England Rum at a higher price than three shillings and three pence per gallon by the hogshead, or three shilhngs per gallon by the barrel, and four shillings and three pence per gallon. And also, resolved by said inhabitants, that the choice of the Delegates for the Continental Congress is vested in the freemen. Test Joseph Merrell, Second Clerk of said meeting. a

:

;

rected.

am, with sentiments of respect, your Honour's most obedient, humble servant, „ Philip Schuyler. I

governour TRUMBULL TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

cccm6er Convention, in appointing about fifty out of their number (eighty) to be Brigadiers and Field Officers or

1096

conduct of each member might be known to his constituents, was very exceptionable. That eighteen members should make the law for this Province, is impolitick and unjust. (n) An equal representation of the people is the best and greatest security for their liberty and the publick cannot conceive the reasons for the Convention's rejecting a motion to that purpose. The charter of this Province has been deemed sacred by our Conventions. The ("barter to the City of ^nnapolh grants the citizens a right to send two Delegates to Assembly, and an act of our Assembly confirms that right. The Convention disregarded the petition of the citizens to send Delegates to the Convention. The instructions given by the Convention to their Deputies in Congress discovered a want of confidence in their members or the Congress, and had a dangerous tendency to withdraw this Province from their union w ith the other Colonies. The draft of the instructions, as reported by the Committee, will be published, with a few strictures. The first Council of Safety consisted of sixteen gentlemen (6) to prevent an abuse of power, from a continuance thereof in the same persons, the Convention resolved, that at each Convention one-half of the members should be ineligible to the succeeding Council. At the December Convention, seven gentlemen were constituted a Council of Safety, with power to any four or moie of diem to elect another in case of death, (c) At the last Convention, in May, nine gentlemen were elected a Council of Safety, (rf) The l)t:fc/«ic/- Convention left out of the Council of Safety gendemen of abilities, and of known and approved attachment to the American cause. The last Convention continued the gentlemen appointed in December. Why did not the rule to prevent an abuse of power, from a continuance

love.

American.

the office to which

the places of highest trust with the best and most

filling

1776.

to the people of maryland. There never was a time in which it was more necessary for you to inquire into the conduct of your Representatives. If", on examination and a strict scrutiny, you ap))rove, let your honour and confidence be given to your present Delegates. If you find good cause to suspect their political principles or probity, discard, without hesitation, such men fiom your If you disservice with contempt, disgrace, and infamy. cover a want of judgment and fortitude, if their conduct is (a) e, g. Three Delegates aUend from nine Counties; two from cacli tbem concur in opinion. 'I'iie Province would be hound by eighteen members, though there should be forty-four dissentients. (i) M. Tilghman, John Jiealt JioviMu, Hobttt GoUhboroiigli, James Hollyday, Uichard IJot/d, Edward Lloyd, Tkomas Smyth, H. Hooper, Daniel of Si. Thomas Jenifer, Thomas Johnson, Jun., IVilUam jHaca, of

Charles Carroll, Barrister, Thomas Slone, Samuel Chase, liobert .Alexander, and Charles Carroll o( Carrollton, Esquires. (c) Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, Charles Carroll, Barrister, .Mm Hall, Benjamin liumsey, James Tilghman, Thomas Smyth, and Thomas

Hands, Esquires. {d) Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, Charles Carroll, Barr., Thomas Hall, Benjamin Ramsey, George Plater, James Tilghman, Thomas Smyth, Thomas Bcdinfeld Hands, and IVitliam Hatjimrd, Esquires. Jiedinfield

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1097

weak, timid, and irrpsolute, dismiss tlicm wit!) silence, as unfit to advise or govern in the present state of your adairs, wliich demands wisdom to plan and firmness to execute. If only an error in judgment can be ini[)uted to them, correct it by your advice and instructions. The December Convention appointed a Committee* to prepare a draft of Instructions for the Deputies in Congress, who reported the following, as unanimously agreed to by

them " In Convention.

Honourable M. TilghmaNjUsi^.jT. Johnson, Ji/n., S. Chase, Robert Goldsbouough, VV. Paca, T.Stone, Robert Alexander, and John Rogers, Esquires:

"To

the

JUNE,

&c.,

1098

1776.

upon safe and honouralile terms, we wish you, nevertheless, and instruct you, to join with the other Colonies in such military operations as you shall judge proper and necessary for the

common At

tained.

defence, until such a peace can be liappily ob-

same time

the

entire confidence in

your

we

that

assure

and

abilities

you we have an

integrity in the dis-

charge of the great trust reposed in you, we must observe to you, as our opinion, that in the relation of constituent and Representative, one principal sccuiity of the former is, the right he holds to lie fully informed of the conduct of the can conceive no case to exist in which it would latter. be of more importance to exercise this right than the present, nor any in which we can suppose the Representative would more willingly acquiesce in the exercise of it we therefore instruct you, that you, from time to time, as occasions may offer, lay before the Convention of this Province the proceedings, and the part you take in the general de-

We

;

"The ration

Convention, taking into their most serious conside-

unhappy dispute between

the present state of the

Great Britain and the United Colonies, think it proper to you their sentiments, and to instruct you in certain points relative to your conduct in Congress as Representa-

deliver

tives of this Province.

"

The

experience

our ancestors have had of the

we and

mildness and equity of the English Government, under which we have grown up to, and enjoyed a state of felicity not exceeded by any people we know of, until the grounds ol the present controversy were laid by the Ministry and Parhas most strongly endeared to us that Constitution from whence these blessings have been derived, and makes us ardently wish for a reconciliation with the mother country, upon terms that may ensure to To this these Colonies an equal and permanent freedom. liament of Great Britain,

Constitution

we

it

are attached, not only by habit but by prin-

ciple, being, in our

judgments, persuaded

it

is,

of

all

known

systems, best calculated to secure the liberty of the subject, to

guard against despotism on the gne hand, and licentious-

ness on the other.

" Impressed with these sentiments, we wartnly recommend to you to keep constantly in your view the avosved end and the purpose for which these Colonies originally associated redress of American grievances and securing the rights of



the Colonists. " The remarkable success which has attended the American arms afford so happy an opportunity of evincing to our

Sovereign, to our brethren o( Great Britain, and to the world, the sincerity of our frequent declarations of our strong desire

of reconciliation, that, as Representatives of this Province, we think it our duty to instruct you to take the first oppor-

move

Congress, and use your utmost endeavours to have prepared and transmitted, an humble Petition to the Throne, disavowing, in the most solemn manner, all

tunity to

for in

design in these Colonies of inde])endence, and declaring, in explicit terms, that they have nothing more in view than the

establishment of their just rights, expressing their ardent de-

confidence of their Sovereign, and

sire to

be restored

to that

happy connection which

to the

subsisted

between them and

the parent State before their present troubles began, and pray-

ing the Royal interposition with Pariiament for the speedy restoration of peace

As upon it

and

tranquillity to the divided empire.

the obtention of these great objects

we

shall think

our greatest happiness to be firmly united to Great Bri-

tain, in a constitutional

dependance upon the imperial Crown

and Parliament thereof, we think proper to instruct you, that should any proposition be happily made by the Crown or Pariiament that may lead to, or lay a rational and probable ground for, reconciliation, you use your utmost endeavours to cultivate and improve it into a happy settlement and lasting amity; taking care to secure the United Colonies against the exercise of the right assumed by Parliament to tax America, and to alter and change the Charters and Constitutions of the said Colonies which cannot be admitted ;

without destroying the essential security of the lives, liberties, and properties of the Colonists. " further instruct you, that you do not, without the previous knowledge and approbation of the Convention of this Province, assent to any proposition to declare these Colonies independent of the Crown of Great Britain ; nor to any pro-

We

position for making or entering into alliance with any foreign power nor to any union or confederation of these Colonies which may necessarily lead to a separation from the mother ;

country.

Desirous as

we

are of peace with Great Britain

may

be judged necessary to be kept secret." To determine the propriety of this Province urging the Congress to petition the King o( Great Britain in January last, it may be |)roper to observe, that the Petition proposed was, in substance, and almost in words, the same with the as

one sent by the Congress and then lying before the Throne. The Proclamation declaring all the Colonies in rebellion, was issued a few days after the arrival and knowledge of It our Petition, and was published in all the newspapers. was also well known that the Pariiament was called and expected to meet in October. The Petition proposed would not probably arrive

in

England

before the

month

oi'

March.

before which time the measures of Pariiament must have been taken,* and would not be in the least influenced by the Petition. To send a second Petition of the same nature,

before a knowledge of the fate of the first, could answer no other purpose but to discover an unreasonable fondness for peace, and encourage a wicked and implacable tyrant in the This part of the instrucpursuit of his diabolical schemes. tions was agreed to by the Convention, and struck out on the next day, after the receipt of the King's speech. The instruction not to assent to any proposition of independency, for a foreign alliance, nor to any union of the Colonies which might necessarily lead to a separation, without

the previous knowledge and approbation of the Convention, might have produced the most fatal consequences to all

Cases might have happened in which it would America. have been expedient to form foreign alliances without any delay; if they could not he entered into without the consent of Maryland, though a very great majority of the Colonies should esteem such measure wise and absolutely necessary, the opportunity of saving America might have been The Congress alone could have the best intelligence lost. and coinprehensive view of our nffairs, and would be the most capable judges when this step ought to be taken. Interest, policy, and necessity would induce this Province not to separate from her sister Colonies.

and want of confidence

distrust

majority of the Colonies ? this Province would not be

of them

in

Why

Why,

then, discover a

the Congress, that

is

a

disclose to the worid that

bound

to unite with

?

An

a majority

American.

NEW-YORK delegates TO PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. Philadelphia,

Gentlemen

We

:

doubt not but before

June 27, 1776. this

you have

received our President's letter, informing you that this Congress have appointed the officers for the regiment directed to be raised in our Colony by the resolve passed oti Friday But as we conceive the last, and then transmitted you.

appointment of officers by this Congress for new levies to be raised in a particular Colony, is contrary to the ordinarypractice, and may therefore be considered as in some measure infringing on the riglits of the Colony, we beg leave, as Air as we are able, to explain the reasons of Congress for takincr ihis step, and our conduct thereon. On receiving the late intelligence from Canada respecting the repulse of the detachment of our Army commanded byGeneral Thompson, at Three Rivers, k.c., the despatches containino-

this

Canada, were James HoMyday, Charles Carroll, Barrister, James Tilghman, Gustavus Scott, and Benjamin Rumsey, Esquires.

such military operations

liberations of the Congress, excejit

account, with the state of our

referred to the

Army

*

The Treaty

in

Board of War, who, the same

'

for foreign troops

was signed

in Februarij.

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS,

1099

fee,

JUNE,

1776.

1100

day, reported the necessity of reinforcing our Army there That to be raised in our Colony with four regiments, inc. To expedite the raising of which, an arrangeto be one. ment of the officers was also reported, and agreed to by objected to this measure, and thought it Congress.

sent distracted state of the Province, and of defending your own and the people's constitutional rights, if you should

our duty to withhold our assent, not only because it was (as we conceived) introducing a new precedent which might give offence, but might inteifere with appointments which you might probably have made for the same regiment in consequence of the former resolve. The present occasion and necessity of despatch were urged to support the measure, and it was alleged that, as these appointments were of parti-

by the Conunissioners which his IMajesty has graciously condescended to appoint for the purpose (among others) of "conferring with proper persons upon such points as may be ne-

We

who had merited by former service, it interfered with no former rule and even should the appointments be continued to the Provincial Congress, it would, in this case, only create unnecessary delay, as the same persons must be appointed by them, to answer the design and meaning of were this Congress expressed in their former resolve. persuaded, nay, we arc morally certain, considering the busy season of tlie year, which will enhance the wages of cular persons

;

We

labourers and the numbers of Militia now in the service, that this regiment cannot possibly be raised in time to answer the end for which it is more particularly designed and ;

should our

affairs

in

Canada grow worse,

as

we have

rea-

son to apprehend from present appearances, we feared lest delay, and every unavoidable misfortune which may befall our Army in Canada for want of a propei- reinforcement, might by some be imputed to our Colony, notwithstanding your utmost exertions to carry into execution this im-

conceive) ineffectual measure, we to mention our reasons for withholding our assent, without making a more pointed and strenuous opposition to this measure, thereby leaving

we

practicable and (as

judged

it,

therefore,

most prudent only

the Colony in such a situation as not to incur any blame on this occasion.

AVe

are,

gentlemen, with highest respect, your most obe-

dient servants,'

/-.

(jeorge r< Clinton, Francis Lewis, William Floyd,

Henry Wisner, John Alsop.

To the

Honourable the Provincial Congress of iVeiw-YorA:.

PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. In Committee of Safety, Philadelphia, June 27, 1776.

The Committee

having reason to believe that wicked and have seduced and enticed some of the men belonging to the boats to desert the service, and go into other employ, have thought it necessary to publish the following Resolve of Assembly ill-disposed persons

" In Assembly, March 26, 1776.

" Resolved,

That any person

whatsoever, within this Colony, who shall harbour and conceal any deserter (knowing him to be such) from the Continental forces, or any other forces raised within this or any other of the United Colonies for the defence of America, shall forfeit and pay any sum not exceeding fifty, nor less than thirty dollars, or suffer three months' imprisonment, for each offence, being convicted thereof by the testimony of one or or

persons

more witnesses before any two Justices of the Peace of the City, Borough, or County respectively, where such offence shall be committed, who are hereby authorized to hear and determine all offences contrary to the above resolve which ;

fine shall

be deposited

in

the hands of the Overseere of the

Poor of the City, Borough, or Township, where the offence is

committed,

And

the

for the use

of the poor of such place." this publick notice that they are

Committee give

determined to prosecute with the utmost rigour any person

who

shall harbour, conceal, or in

any manner employ any

deserter from the service of this Colony. i5y order of the

Committee

:

George Ross, Chairman. GOVERNOUR FRANKLIN TO THE MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL AND ASSEMBLY OF NEW-JERSEY. Perth-Amboy, June 27, 1776.

The occasion of my calling you together at this time was not only to give you an opportunity of considering the pre-

but to connnunicate to you and to consult you intelligence 1 have received from his Majesty's Secretaries of State respecting the business to be transacted

choose

it,

upon some

cessary for effecting a restoration of the publick tranquillity." These Commissionei-s, 1 had great reason to expect, would

be arrived by the time of your meeting, and I know of no ])ersons of this Province so proper to receive and confer with them as yourselves. On the whole, gentlemen, much positive good would, in my opinion, have resulted to the Province had a meeting of the General Assembly been held at this jimcture. But as that now seems not likely to happen, 1 shall take my leave of you and the good people you represent, perhaps Permit me, before we part, to recomfor the last time. mend it to you to defend your Constitution in all its branches. Let me exhort you to avoid, above all things, the traps of independency and republicanism now set for you, however temptingly they may he baited. Depend upon it, you can never place yourselves in a happier situation than in your constitutional dependency on Great Britain. ancient No independent State ever was, or ever can be, so happy as we have been, and might still be, under that Government. I have early and often warned you of the pernicious designs of many pretended patriots, who, under the mask of zeal for reconciliation, have been, from the first, insidiously promoting a system of measures piu'posely calculated for widening the breach between the two countries, so as to let in the worst and most an independent republican tyranny They well know that debasing of all possible tyrannies. this has not even a chance of being accomplished but at the expense of the lives and properties of many thousands of yet these, it seems, are the honest people of this country as nothing in the eyes of such desperate gamesters But remember, gentlemen, I now tell you, that should they (contrary to all probability) accomplish their baneful purpose, It will never suit yet their Government will not be lasting. a people who have tasted the sweets of British liberty under When the present high fever shall a British Constitution. abate of its warmth, and the people are once more able coolly to survey and compare their past with their -present situation, they will, as naturally as the sparks fly upwards, wreak their vengeance on the heads of those who, taking advantages of their delirium, had plunged them into such



;

!

difficulties

and

distress.

This, gentlemen, I well know is not language suited to but it is better it is honest truth, flowing from the times a heart that is ready to shed its best blood for diis country. real patriot can seldom or ever speak popular language. A false one will suffer himself to speak nothing else. The



;

A

last will often

be popular, because he

will

always conform

himself to the present humours and passions of the people, that he may the better gratify his private ambition and pro-

The first will most generally his own sinister designs. be unpopular, because his conscience will not permit him to be guilty of such base compliances, and because he will ever serve the people, if in hi; power, against dieir own inclinations, Uiough he be sure that he thereby risks his ruin or demote

struction.

I

am

not insensible of the dangers

I

am

likely

do not regard them. It is the part of an ignoble mind to decline doing good for fear of die evil that bear no enmity to follow. 1 any man that means might well, however we may differ in ])olitical sentiments. I most heartily wish you, gentlemen, and the people of this once happy Province, may again enjoy peace and prosperity, and I shall ever particulariy honour and esteem such of you and them as have dared, with an honest and manly firmness, in these worst of times, to avow their loyalty to the best of Sovereigns, and manifest their attachment to their legal ConstiAs to my own part, I have no scruple to repeat at tution. this time what 1 formerly declared to the Assembly, "that no office nor honour in the power of the Crown to bestow, to incur,

but

1

ever influence me to forget or neglect the duty 1 owe to country; nor the most furious rage of the intemperate zealots induce me to swerve from the duty I owe his Mawill

my

J^^ ^'

William Franklin.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS.

1101

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A GENTLEMAN IN NEW-YORK TO HIS FRIEND IN HARTFORD, DATED JUNE 27, 1776.

You have

no doubt heard of a most horrid conspiracy I have had no opportunity but from to examine the evidences in support of the fact the weight of the persons who have appeared to prosecute the inquiry, and the circumstances that have been mentionlately discovered in this place.

;

have no doubt of the truth of the general charge. The substance of it I take to be this, that Governour Tryon in this, and other similar emissaries in all the other Governments, have been for a long time using all the influence that the command of the Ministry and Treasury in England could give them, to bribe and cajole our principal people in all that by the Colonies to act in concert with their plans decrees they have brought numbers fully to co-operate with them and, after being led on too far to recede, stick at nothing, however villanous and horrible, to accomplish their that the principal emissaries have, by pursuing the designs same methods that were successfully practised upon themselves, drawn in those beneath them, so as to take in all degrees, from the prince to the scavenger that a distribution of money and arms has been secretly made from the greater to the least branches that there were schemes to dised,

I

;

&ic.,

my power

in

to

JUNE,

1102

1776.

send any carpenters from hence

to build

the gondolas and galleys General Arnold mentions, witiiout taking them from a work equally necessary, if not more so,

here of the same kind

;

and submit

it

to thern

whether

it

may

not be advisable, as it is of great imiiortance to us to have a number of these vessels on the Lake to prevent the ene-

my

passing, to

withdraw the carpenters

the frigates building upon the

for the

present from

North River, and detach them

immediately, with all that can be got at Fhiladelphin, for that purpose, and carrying on these here. I have the pleasure to inform you of another capture made by our armed vessels, of a transport, on the 19th instant, The with a company of Highland Grenadiers, on board. enclosed extract of a letter from General Ward, by last night's post, contains the particulars, to which I beg leave to refer you.

;

;

;

;

tinguish

who were

the plot, without speaking

in

that

;

when

most vigorous efforts were to be made in different parts at once to land the troops and push their operations at the same time all our most imporall

was ready

for execution, the

;

be seized by the conspirators on shore among ourselves all our important men were to be seized or murdered, together with all that were friendly attached to the cause o( American rights and liberty, and might be likely General Washto obstruct their views or give them trouble. ington was among the first that were to be sacrificed, and the rest in succession, according to their importance. number of the General's Guard have already been taken up, were bribed to murder him, and have for some time received double pay for that purpose, one of whom was yesterday

were

tant posts

to

A

condemned

to

I have been honoured with your favour of the 21st and 25th instant, in due order, with their important enclosures. have transmitted I to which I shall particulariy attend. General Schuyler a copy of the resolve of Congress respecting the Mohegan and Stockhridge Indians, and directed him to put an immediate stop to the raising the two companies. The Quartermaster-General has been called upon for stopping the tents designed for Massachusetts-Bay, and orHe means to write dered to forward them immediately. Congress upon the subject, and hopes his conduct will not appear to deserve their reprehension. Of this they will judge from his relation of the matter. Being extremely desirous to forward the intelligence from Canada to Congress, well knowing their anxiety about our affairs there, 1 must defer writing upon some other matters I want to lay before them till the next opportunity, which I hope will be to-morrow, when [ will inform them fully upon the subject of rations, having desired the Commissary-General

to furnish

me

with some things necessary in that instance.

sir,

have the honour to be, with sentiments of great respect, your most obedient servant,

To

the Hon. John Hancock, Esq.

1

George Washington.

be hansred.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM NEW-YORK TO A GENTLEMAN IN BOSTON, DATED JUNE 21, 1776.

Our Mayor, who

has been

till

lately confined in a private

house, has been removed to the

common

jail.

This looks

badly.

The Jersey Convention have voted for a new Government elected new Delegates for the Continental Congress, whereof Dr. Witherspoon and Judge Stockton are two given them (I am informed) warm instructions made it death for any of the inhabitants of the United Colonies to be found New-Jersey, it was thought, in arms against them, &tc. would be among the last to alter their Government nothing more than a bare majority was expected in favour of it but there the plot against the General has wrought wonders were but four dissenting voices. The Committee o( Frederick County, in Maryland, have published some resolves which bear a little hard upon their ;

;

;

— —

;

Provincial Convention for the part they have acted respect-

Government.

ing a change of

Convention

Some

think

it

likely that that

be dissolved.

will

vessels arrived at the

Do

before.

I

not learn

Hook

yesterday and the day

how many, what

they are, nor from

whence.

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July

1,

1776.]

New-York, June

27, 1776.

morning received, by express, lettei-s from Generals Schuyler and Arnold, with a copy of one from General Sidiivan to the former, and also of others to General Sullivan, of all which I do myself the honour to transmit you copies. They will give a further account of the melancholy situation of our affairs in Canada, and show that there

Sir

is

:

I this

nothing

country.

save our Army there but evacuating the hopeful General Sullivan would retreat from

left to

I

am

the Islc-aiix-Noit without waiting for previous orders for that

purpose, as, from Generals Schuyler and Arnold's letters, it is much to be feared, by remaining there any considerable time, his retreat

treme

difficulty.

would be cut off, or be a matter of exI would observe to Congress that it is not

Albany, June 25, 1776

Dear General



1

o'clock A.

M.

About an hour ago General Arnold, who is arrived here from Canada, sent me a letter from General Sullivan, enclosing one from General Arnold to him, another of Colonel Hazen, and a third from Lieutenant-Colonel Antill ; copies of all which I do myself the honour to enclose. The grief I feel on the evacuation of Canada by our troops is greatly alleviated by the little loss sustained in the retreat, and the hope I have that we :

shall maintain a superiority

Your Excellency

on the Lakes.

observe that General Schuyler intimates that farther than the Isle-aux-Noix he could not reprevious to treat without your Excellency's or my orders which he observes that the Council of War were unanimous Point. I do not hesitate to say that I for coming to Crown wish he had retreated, at least as far south as Point-au-Fer will

;

am afraid the enemy will throw thembetween him and the broad part of Lake Champlain, and render it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to send on a supply of provisions, as they can, with light cannon, and even with wall-pieces, command the watei-s from shore to shore in most places, lor six miles south of Isle-aux-?toix, and in many even with musketry. Did not the danger of remaining there, especially with an Army broken and spiritless, and who wish so much to come further south, that the officers (as General Arnold informs me) have already in a body entreated him to come away, appear to me too great to admit of the delay of waiting your Excellency's orders, I should not send mine tor a further

or Isle-la-Motte, as I selves

your pleasure could be known but I trust I doing it, and yet I believe the order will meet the Army on this side of Islc-aiu-!^oix. Be pleased to order up six anchore and cables for the gondolas that are constructing, of the size of what is called the small anchor and cable of an Albany sloop. I shall immediately write to Governour Trumbull to procure fifty ship carpenters, if he can, and send for a like number to the Massachusetts-Bay. If anv Dutch mill-saws can be procured at New-York, be pleased to order up four dozen, with six dozen of files for

retreat until shall

be

justified in

;

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1103

Having learned that General Gates is upon his way have ordered a boat down to meet him. I ain, dear General, with every sentiment of esteem and respect, your Excellency's most obedient huiuble servant, Philip Schuyler. To Genera! H ashiiiglon.

&:c.,

JUNE,

We burned

1776.

1104

the garrison at Chambly, with the gon-

them.

safety.

up,

dolas and vessels there, leaving nothing but ruin behind us pulled up all the bridges in our way to St. in the fort.

I

Isle-aux-Noix, June 19, 1776.

Dear General

:

By

a strange revei-se of fortune

we

are

I had driven to the sad necessity of abandoning Canada. the most sanguine hopes of collecting our Army together and doubt not driving the enemy below Dcschambault, in which 1

should have succeeded, had not Burgoync, w itii a strong Canada, and reached the llirec Riccrs the night before our people made the unfortunate attack 1

party, arrived in

upon

that

phice under General

Thompson;

the particulars

of this engagement I have not before had in my power to I find our loss to amount to about one hundred give you. and fifty. Colonel Wayne sustained the greatest, as his men began the attack, and behaved with great bravery, as did the Colonel himself; in short,

all

the officers behaved

except some few of low rank and had not the number of the enemy been so superior I doubt not the point would have been carried, in which case I should have pushed for Deschambaidt, which, if secured, would have given But this defeat convinced us the command of the country. I was us that we came too late for the important purpose. with great

spirit,

;

determined, however, to hold Sorel, as it seemed the pleabut after taking unwearied pains to fortify sure of Congress that post, and to collect the main body of the Army to de;

found but two diousand five hundred at that place, and about a thousand more at the other garrisons, most of the latter being under inoculation, and those regiments which had not the small-pox expecting every day to be taken down fend

it, I

with it at the same time the British Heet, to the amount of thirty-six sail, had advanced into the Lake near us, and The encampment of the enesixty-six lay at Three Rivers. my was to appearance very large, and every account proved ;

their

number

to

nadians, too, as

be exceedingly superior to ours. The Cafar as the enemy advanced, were obliged

In this state of affairs I was arms or be destroyed. much embarrassed, yet was determined to hold my ground at all hazards, but, to my great mortificadon, 1 found myself at the head of a dispirited Army, filled with horror at the Indeed I was much surthought of seeing their enemy. prised to see the scattered remains of this Army, when I had the small-pox, famine and disorder, collected them together had rendered them almost lifeless: the flight from before (^uebeck, the fate of those from the Cedars, and the total loss to take

;

of Sherburne's party had, before my arrival with my brigade, destroyed all spirit among these troops. But upon our arrival but when they found this their spirits seemed to return ;

party defeated, and the

number of

the

enemy

increasing, I

lound a great panick again taking place among both officers and soldiers. I had no less, I believe, than forty officers who begged leave to resign their commissions upon the most trivial pretences, and this even extended to Field Officers. The prevailing opinion was, that the enemy, instead of attacking our works, would get round us and cut off our communication with the upper country, and destroy our retreat this, indeed, they had completely in their power, as we had I soon found that, however not force to dislodge them. strongly I might fortify Sorel, my men would in general In this state of leave me upon appearance of the enemy. affairs I called a Council of all the Field Officers, with ihe Baron de Woedtke, and they were almost unanimously for General Arnold was not present, but quitting the ground. his opinion you have, as well as that of Colonel llazcn and Colonel Antill, in the enclosed lettei-s. I then immediately decamped, taking with us every artiThe enemy, having a fair wind, was cle, even to a spade. Our guard at our works in an hour after we left them. at Jierlier not coming in at tiie time they were ordered, were met by the enemy, forced to leave nine batteaus, and take to Chambly by land. This was all the loss we sustained. We retreated as far as Chambly. This post not being tenable, we removed our batteaus over the rapids, with all the baggage and stores, except three pieces of cannon, which were too heavy to bring over the rapids; and, indeed, they were but bad pieces of ordnance at best. I then proceeded to St. Johns, where everything arrived in

We

General Arnold did the same in the other road from Montreal, from which place he made a very prudent and judicious retreat, with an enemy close at his heels. When wo got to St. Johns, another Council was held, where it was unanimously agreed, that to attempt holding St. Johns, would be to expose the whole Army to inevitable rum, as our communication might easily be cut off, and the Previous to this, I received whole Army fall a sacrifice. the resolves of Congress for six thousand Militia, which I they were all of opinion that this laid before the Council would rather weaken than strengthen our Army; and further, that they could not possibly arrive in season to save us from They were fully of a powerful Army close at our heels. opinion that (in the present unhealthy state of the Army) it would be best to remove to Crown Point, fortify that post, and build armed vessels to secure the navigation of the Lake. Upon this we immediately stripped the garrison of every article, took our batteaus, and retreated to this Island. Further than this I could not go, without your or General Washington's orders, or the directions of Congress. I therefore send on the sick, the looks and numbers of whom will present you with the most dismal spectacle ever furnished I have sent on from our Army in this quarter of the globe. General Arnold to give direcfionsat Crown Point to receive The men who are fit for duty I shall retain your orders. here, ready to execute any orders you will please to commuJohns.

;

nicate.

Thus, dear General, I have given you a correct account my unfortunate campaign, claiming no merit, except in making a safe and regular retreat; and although driven to it by inevitable necessity, (as the grand post was lost before my arrival, and put beyond my power to regain,) and although it was before an army much more powerful than mine, yet I am sufficiently mortified, and since wish I had never seen this fatal country, unless I had arrived in season to have done some good to my country, and insured the of

expectation of Congress. Dear General, believe me to be, with the greatest respect,

vour most obedient servant,

To

the

o

,

John sullivan.

•'

Hon. General Schuyler.

P. S. I beg you to write to me where the remainder of Wayne's regiment is. As I don't write to General Washington or the Congress, I beg you to forward a copy of this John Sullivan. letter. Chambly, June

Dear General I

found everything

:

in

13,

1776.

Johns yesterday, where the greatest confusion not one stroke

I

went

to St.

;





at that the engineer a perfect sot done to fortify the camp I have given and this place near three thousand sick. orders that the sick draw only half rations in future. 1 have ordered Colonel Antill to St. Johns, and an abattis and lines to bo immediately begun, to enclose the two old forts, and an encampment sufficient to hold six thousand men. I am fully of opinion not one minute ought to be lost in securing our retreat, and saving our heavy cannon, baggage, and provisions. The enemy will never attack you at Sorel. Their force is doubtless much superior to ours, and we have no advice of any reinforcement. Shall we sacrifice the few men we have by endeavouring to keep possession of a small part of the country which can be of little or no service The junction of the Canadians with the Coloto us? is now nies an object which brought us into this country Let us quit them, and secure our own country at an end. before it is too late. There will be more honour in making a





safe retreat than hazarding a battle against such superiority, will doubtless be attended with the loss of men, artilThese arguSiC, and the only pass to our country. ments are not urged by fear ibr my personal safety: I am

which lery,

content to be the last so that

my country

man who

rise.

But

let

quits this country,

us not

fall all

and

fall,

together.

The goods I seized in Montreal, and sent to Chambly, under the care of JMajor Scott, have been broken open, plundered, and huddled together in the greatest confusion. They were taken in such a hurry it was impossible to take a particular account of them. Each man's name was marked on When Major Scott arrived at Chambly, he his packages.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, JUNE,

1105

received your positive orders to repair to Sorel; the guard was ordered to return, and the goods to be delivered Colonel

He refused receiving or talking any by wiiich means, and Major Scotfs being ordered away, the goods liave been opened and plundered, It is impossible for me to disI believe to a large amount. tinguish each man's goods, or ever settle wiUi the proprieThe goods are delivered to Mr. McCarthy. This is tors. not the first or last order Colonel Ilazcn has disobeyed. I think him a man of too much consequence for the post he is in. I have given him orders to send directly to St. Johns all the heavy cannon, shot, powder, and batteaus, valuable stores, and the sick. I go to Montreal immediately, and beg to have your orders as soon as possible for my future Hazen,

to

be stored.

care of them

of publick

not have ventured had that purpose. I

am, dear

afTairs in

I

not

first

1106 Canada, which I should obtained your leave for

your most obedient humble servant,

sir,

;

conduct.

am, with respect and esteem, dear General, your most humble servant, d a „„„, „ D. Arnold.

I

critical situation

1776.

obedient,

P. S. If you should think proper to retire to St. Johns, it not be best to order 3 number of carts to be ready from all the neighbouring parishes, and to enforce your order by sending a number of armed men to secure them ? will

Chambly, June

13, 1776.

Dear

Sir: Enclosed you have a copy of a letter which I have received from General Arnold. It contains, as I conceive, an undeserved reflection, as I am very conscious of having done my duty in every respect but if otherwise, I am equally unworthy the honour which the Congress conI must, ferred on me, as unfit for the service of my country. therefore, beg you will order, as soon as the service will admit, a Court of Inquiry, or a Court-Martial, as you may think fit, to determine this matter. Enclosed you have also the copy of an order of yesterday, which I have put into execution. The officers in general There has think it cruel, and the soldiers murmur greatly. been, within these few days, a considerable desertion from St. Johns, Chambly, and, 1 believe, some from your camp they go ofl", as I am told, through the woods, on each side of the Lake and it is not possible for us to prevent those who choose to undertake so fatiguing a journey.

M.

To

[Iazen.

General Sullivan. Chambly, June

Worthy

Sin

1.3,

1778.

You have

doubtless ere this received a line from General Arnold, acquainting you of his having sent :

mo

on a tour to Chambly, (this place,) to endeavour to colI have done proper return of the troops at each post. my utmost, but have not yet finished, owing to the scattered situation of our men, for twenty miles in length as soon as There are about fifteen hundone, I shall wait upon you. dred at St. Johns, and upwards of twelve hundred here lect a

;

very few indeed fit for duty. The loss of Deschambault, I am clear, has lost us the A prudent retreat, I presume, under our present Province. If they should get possession of situation, is our only plan. our boats, of which I am apprehensive, I think they may be at Crown Point before us. This, General, is a bold observation excuse my freedom. I have lived ten years in the country



of their operations, and have seen their manoeuvres: depend upon it they don't retard their operations for nothing they are ;

meditating a plan they will soon attempt to put into execution. Secure our water-carriage on Lake Champlain, and we turn the tables upon them, and I think we can meet

;

;

;

am

I

sorry to see the disagreeable situation

we

now

are

a safe retreat to the other side oi Lake Champlain is the in only point to be attended to, in my opinion, as we have irrecoverably lost the only chance we had of maintaining our fortifying ground in Canada, and that by our neglect, viz the pass at Deschambault in the proper time, which would have secured to us the navigation of the river St. Lawrence down to that place an advantage added to the protection we should have given, and, in consequence, the assistance we might have had from at least seven-eighths of Canada which would have enabled us to withstand any force the Sorel is calBritish Ministry might have sent against us. culated by nature as a proper place, in our situation, for the encampment of your main body, in order to watch the Art will scarcely make any motions of our enemy only. ;

:



;



difference in the place

know

it,

;

for if

you

fortify,

and, in that case, leave you

go past your St. Johns.

post,

and proceed

You must

in

the

your

directly to

not consider

them

enemy

will

fortification,

Chambly and being

as

in

an

enemy's country; but, on the contrary, suppose it to be our own case. Do not rely on any real assistance from the Canadians whom you are collecting together I know them well be assured that, in our present situation, they will leave us in the hour of difficulty. Look into your own distressed, dissatisfied, and undisciplined Army. The Congress has promised them what is out of your power to perform. What are we to expect from a handful of such men, against the well-known best troops in the world ? I dread the consequence of their delay you will find it is not without a plan, which they will by and by attempt to execute if they succeed, your Army will be cut to pieces. For God's sake order the necessary precaution to be immediately taken to There is no time to lose, as this is secure your retreat. I was yesterday at St. Johns not to be done in a moment. only half a dozen fit for service not a batteau at that place here. St. Johns is almost naked of artillery we have at shall they be sent last got some pieces here fit for service St. Johns? back to Please to order. on to you, or I beg you will pardon the freedom which I have taken on



;

:

;



;

;

this

occasion in transmitting to you

Fourth Series.

—Vol.

vi.

my

opinion in the present

them there upon advantageous terms. I once more beg your Accept my simple opinion if it serves in a hurry. you I am happy if not, throw them by yet still believe me, with respect, your most obedient, humble servant, E. Antill. excuse,

;

;

To

;

General Sullivan. Albany, June 20,

Dear General: Your

1776—10

o'clock P.

M.

despatches ariived at a quarter

past eleven this morning. I

very seriously deplore the disagreeable situation of you Army in Canada; and although I applaud your

and our

magnanimous spirit, yet I cannot by any means approve that you should think only of a glorious death or a victory obtained against superior numbers. These sentiments should take place

when every

other resource

is

cut

off,

and when

may not be attended with decisive consequences The evacuation of Canada will certainly be against us. but will not the attended with many disagreeable ones a defeat

;

of our Army, and a consequent loss of the country, be attended with those infinitely more fatal ? Surely I only mention that the enemy will, in that case, it will. be able to penetrate into the Colonies by the way of the total destruction

Lakes not so if our Army retreat in safety. Every effort of theirs to accomplish it, at least for this campaign, will prove ineffectual but should they even be able to advance :

;

to the

most southern extreme of the Lake, our Army, with

re-

inforcements from the Militia, will there stop their progress. I

am,

therefore, of opinion, if

when you

it

should be

still

in

your power

receive this, that you ought not to remain any

longer at Sorel than you have a prospect of retreating with ; and that the better to secure your retreat, every

safety

batteau, as I have formerly observed,

which you can possibly

spare, ought to be sent without the least delay to St. Johns. I think I am fully authorized to give this opinion, from what you say of the strength of the enemy in your letter to his Excellency General Jlashington and me, and I have informed his Excellency that I would give you the above advice. Colonel Dayton is in Tryon County we shall, I believe have our hands full in that quarter. 1 am preparing everything to take post at Fort Stamvix, and to repel the threat;

ened invasion of the Mohawk River. No part of Colonel JVayne's is as yet arrived here, nor any of the INlilitia ordered by the resolutions of Congress which I transmitted you on the I2th instant. I have ordered Colonel JVynkoop to send all the batteaus he can to St. Johns, agreeable to General Arnold's and Colonel Poor's request, signified in their letters of the 13th this will deprive me from forwarding the Militia instant but if you should not want the batteaus, I entreat you to order them back to Ticondcroga, under the command of an active officer, and as many othere as you can spare, that the Militia may be sent without delay. ;

70

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1107

Please to make my compliments to Major Scanmell. few blank commissions 1 have are at Fort George, and 1 will order one to be forwarded to you to be filled up for The ague, which now attacks me every day with the iiim. utmost violence, has considerably reduced me and a few

The

;

more, unless they become more moderate, will render me equally unfit to think or act. God bless you, and may Heaven smile propitious on your endeavours. I am, dear sir, with the best wishes for your health and fits

happiness, your obedient, humble servant,

Philip Schuyler.

To

the

Albany, June 25, 1776

— 5 o'clock A. M.

twelve last night I was favoured Painful with your letter of the 19th by General Arnold. as the evacuation of Canada is to me, yet a retreat without loss greatly alleviates that pain, not only because it reflects

honour upon you, but that I have now a confident hope that, by recruiting your Army, and keeping up a naval superiority on the Lake, we shall be able to prevent the enemy from penetrating into the inhabited parts of these Colonies.

;

batteaus, with swivels fixed

upon them,

to cruise

about

la-Mottc, and prevent any attempts the enemy may harass the settlements on the east side of the Lake.

Isle-

make

to

momently expect some despatches from General Washwhen I shall write you again.

ington,

The enemy, from undoubted intelhave brought over a large number (it is said one hundred) of frames lor flat-bottom boats, designed to be made use of on Lake Champlain ; and, from their industry and strength, will doubtless become masters of the Lake, unless every nerve on our part is strained to exceed them in a naval armament. I think it absolutely necessary that at least Fifty three hundred carpenters be immediately employed. floating-batteries.

who

sent from Philadelphia, that kind of craft,

particular return of the

hurry and confusion I

;

Army will

it

Albany, June 25, 1776.

By

express you will receive advice from General Schuyler of our evacuating Canada ; an event which, I make no doubt, (from our distressed situation,) you this

have some time expected. The particulars of General Thonrpson's repulse and captivity, as nearly as could be ascertained, have been transmitted you; on advice of which, and very direct intelligence that the enemy were greatly superior to us in numbers, 1 advised General Sullivan to secure his retreat, by retiring to St. Johns. He was determined to keep his post at Sorcl, if possible, and did not retire until the 14th instant, at which time the enemy were as high up with their ships as the Sorel.

were

treal,

The

15th, at night,

at twelve miles distance

with

my

little

from me,

when

I

garrison of three hundred

the ene-

quitted

men.

MonThe

whole Army, with their baggage and cannon, (except three heavy pieces left at Chambly,) arrived at .SV. Johns the 17th, and at the Isle-aux-Noix the 18th previous to which it was determined by a Council of War at St. Johns, that, in ;

our distressed situation, (one-half of the Army sick, and almost the whole destitute of clothing and every necessary of life except salt pork and flour,) it was not only imprudent but impracticable to keep possession of St. Johns. Crown

Point was judged the only place of health and safety to which the Army could retire and oppose the enemy. It was found necessary to remain at the Isle-aitx-Noix for some few days, until the sick, heavy cannon, &c., could be removed. General Sullivan did not choose to leave the Jsle-aur-Noix until he received positive orders for that purpose, and thought it necessary for me to repair

to this place

facilitate

the matter.

could not be obtained

be transmitted you

in

A

in

our

a

few

believe the whole to be about seven thousand, and

them are sick and unfit for duty, but daily recovering. Upwards of one thousand more are yet to have The enemy, from the best intelligence that the small-pox. can be obtained, are near ten thousand, exclusive of Canadians and savages, few of the latter having joined them as at least one-half of

yet. I make no doubt it will be thought necessary to repair Croivn Point, or build a new fort near that place the former, from the advantage of its situation and the fine barracks ;

nearly completed, will, I believe, be thought most proper. I

make no doubt but General Gates, whom I am happy to is on his way here, will pay immediate attention to it.

hear

myself our arms under your immediate direction meet with more success than they have done in this quarter. I make not the least doubt our struggles will be crowned with success. I am, with every friendly wish, most respectfully, dear General, your affectionate and obedient humble servant, B. Arnold. To His Excellency General Washington. I flatter

will

Return of the

Men who drew

Rations on the 23d and 24iA

of June, 1776.

Philip Schuyler.

:

are acquainted with building

would greatly

the Hon. Brigadier-General Sullivan.

Dear General

my

It now appears to me of the utmost importance that the Lakes be immediately secured by a large number (at least twenty or thirty) of gondolas, row-galleys,

am, dear General, most sincerely, your obedient, hum-

ble servant,

To

1108

impracticable.

days.

have written his Excellency General Washington that I wish you had complied with the opinion of your Council of War, and retreated as far south as Croum Point; because I fear the greatest embarrassments in sending supplies, as the enemy may throw themselves between you and the broad part of the Lake, and greatly incommode, if not totally obstruct, the passage of batteaus, or any vessels we have, by batteries ot" small cannon, by wall-pieces, and even musketry; that, if I had not thought the danger of remaining at hle-aux-Noix too great to admit of the delay of knowing bis pleasure with regard to a further retreat, I should not have presumed to order it. I am, dear General, so far at least in sentiment with your Council of War, that I think and wish you to retire at least into the broad part of LaTie Champlain. Perhaps Point-au-Fer or Isk-la-Moite might be thought eligible places, until General Washington^ pleasure can be known but should you retire to Croimi Point it may be proper to keep all the armed vessels and some I

I

1776.

ligence,

Dear General: Near

I

JUNE,

and wait on General Schuyler. I arrived here last night, and am happy to find him of our sentiments in quitting the Isle-aui-Noix, which, from its low situation, is rendered very unhealthy, and, from the narrow channel leading to it from the south part of Lake Champlain, of six miles in length and from three to eight hundred yards in breadth, is rendered very insecure, as the enemy, by light pieces of cannon and small-arms, might render all access to it dangerous, if not

and

Hon. Brigadier- General SuUivan.

&:c.,

Col. Si. Clair's Reginient

Canadians.by order of Colonel Moore

ludepeudenlCompany Colonel Slanion.... Colonel JJedel's Colonel De Haas

i

^

( S \ j

Ariillery

Colonel Colonel Culonel Colonel Colonel

Biirrell

Read Hazen Bond

Wayne

John Thomas, by ge neral order

^ J

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS,

1109 found

in

Amhoy

so suspicious a place as

;

liis

unnecessary

kc, JUNE,

him out of

iiis

own

stocic



;

no circumstances

in

to furnish

the Major's reputation, and his

have increased my jealousies about being a lialf-pay officer, The business which he informs me he has with Conhim. gress, is a secret offer of his services, to the end that, in case it should be rejected, he might have his way left open to an employment in the East-Indies, to which he is assigned and in that case he flatters himself he will obtain leave of Congress to go to Great Britain. As he had been put upon his parole by Congress, I thought ;

it would be improper to stay his progress to Philadelphia, should he be in fact destined thither. I therefore send him forward, but (to prevent imposition) under the care of an

with letters found upon him, which, from their tenour,

officer,

seem calculated it

to

to

recommend him

to their consideration,

whether

it

to

Congress.

I

submit

would not be dangerous

accept of the offer of his services. I am, with the greatest respect and esteem, your most

obedient servant,

To

George Washington.

the President of Congress.

At

[Read July

1,

1770.]

New-York, June

Sir: General

^'Fus/iin^'^ore

showed me

27, 1776.

the resolve of Con-

came here from Philadelphia should be forwarded to Boston, which shall, with all possible He was also pleased to comdespatch, be complied with. gress, that the tents whicli

municate

me

to

the paragraph of your letter to him respect-

ing the detention of those tents, which, surprised and alarmed

me much.

power exercised by me,

them

General Mifflin sent

tents

until

I

for

I

me word

were arrived, being part of

must own, both was not a

It really, sir,

stretch of

a

larger

knew nothing

of

that a parcel of

number he had

contracted with Mr. Barrell, oi Philadelphia,

for.

I

order-

ed them into the store, and never inquired further about them. To remove any unjust aspersion which my conduct in this affair may subject me to, is my motive for troubling you with this letter and believe me, sir, the Congress will never find me exejcising any power inconsistent with my duty to them, and to the department they have been pleased to honour me with the direction of. I am, with great respect, sir, your most obedient, humble ;

STEPHEN m MoYLAN.

servant,

r-

'

a Council of General Officers, held at Head-Quarters,

1110

COLONEL MOYLAN TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

stay there, on pretence of getting some baggage from NewYork and an expectation of receiving money from a person

here of bad character, and

1776.

To the

Hon. John Hancock, Esq., President of Congress.

June 27, 1776 Present: His Excellency General Washington; BrigadierGenerals Heath, Silencer, Greene, Lord Stirling, Mijflin,

and

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS. Head-Quarters, New-York, June 27, 1776.

Scott.

The

General communicated to the Council the Proceedings of the Court-Martial on Thomas Hickey ; when he was unanimously advised to confirm the sentence, and that it be put in execution to-morrow, at eleven o'clock for which purpose the General to issue his warrant. Major Rogers having been brought before this Council of officers, from Amboy, where he has been for several days, the members are unanimously of opinion that he should proceed to Philadelphia, under an escort, and that at the same time a letter be written to Congress, informing them that, under all circumstances, he is not to be sufficiently relied on. The General read a letter received from Colonel Crarey and Captain Livingston, informing that the Committee took surety for the good behaviour of the prisoners, and discharged them. Unanimously agreed, that the General write to the Provincial Congress, informing them of the transactions there, and that they will order therein and also, that all persons apprehended, be detained until such information be obtained. Advised unanimously, that all the Stock and Horses, except what are absolutely necessary for the support of the inhabitants, be removed from Long-Island, Siatcn-Island, and the adjoining coasts and that application be made to the Provincial Congress to assist in carrying this measure into ;

;

;

execution.

Sir: The necessity of the most vigorous and decisive measures in our present circumstances will, I doubt not, justify to your honourable body the removal of the stock of cattle and horses from those parts of the coast most exposed to the enemy. After a long and fatiguing voyage they will need refreshment of this nature, and there is no doubt they Common pruwill have them, if possible, on any terms. dence, therefore, and a regard to our own safety, strongly evince the necessity of depriving them of such supplies as will enable them to act with more vigour and spirit against us though painful and disagreeable, it seems to be a measure which the great law of self-preservation now requires. Enclosed I transmit the unanimous resolution of a council of General Officers, advising such removal, without delay; in which it is proposed to pay a suitable regard to the necessities of the people. I flatter myself that, in a matter of such importance and difficulty, the honourable body over which you preside will approve of the proposal, and carry it into execution, or co-operate with me in the most effectual ;

steps for the purpose. I

George Washington.

To

Determination of the Brigadier-Generals, in regard moval of the Slock from the Islands.

have the honour to be, with the greatest respect and sir, your obedient, humble servant,

regard,

Hon. Nathaniel Woodhull, Esq., President,

the

general WASHINGTON TO GENERAL WADSWORTH.

In considering the several matters which your Excellency has been pleased to refer to us, we do, with regard to LongIsland and Staten-Island, think

it

absolutely necessary, for

the safety and defence of this Colony, that

and sheep (except such as

may

all

the stock of

be requisite

for the present subsistence of the inhabitants) be removed to a distance from the sea-coast, and that this be done immediately,

cattle

as on the arrival of the

enemy

it will be impossible to give and also, that all the horses be either removed, or put under such regulations as that they may be removed, on the first approach of the enemy; and with regard to the disaffected inhabitants who have lately been apprehended, we think that the method, at present, by the County Committee, of discharging them on their giving bonds as a security for their good behaviour, is very improper and ineffectual, and therefore recommend it to your Excellency to apply to the Congress of this Province to take some more effectual method of securing the good behaviour of those people; and, in the mean time, that your Excellency

attention to this matter;

will order the officer, in

no more of them thereon.

until

whose custody they tlie

J.

June 27, 1776.

are, to discharge sense of the Congress be had

W. Heath, Spencer,

&;c.

to re-

Stirling,

Nath. Greene

New-York, June

27, 1776.

Having received information of your being appointed to command the Militia to be furnished by your Colony for the defence of this place, I entreat you to give notice to Sir

:

the officers

who

are principally concerned in raising them,

march be expedited as much as possible, or the assistance they are meant to afford may come loo late, as, in all probability, the enemy, immediately on their arrival,

that their

make their grand push, especially if they are apprized of our weak state. It will be indispensably necessary for the men to come provided with arms, as it will not be in my power to furnish them with one, having many here already unarmed nor will it contribute to the service in the least degree if they do not ; I therefore request the utmost attention to this matter will

;

importance, and that none come without. be proper that an arrangement should be foiTned, and regular ordere given as to their disposition, previous to their coming, to prevent disorder and confusion I desire, as

of the

As

last

it

will

soon as you have notified your principal officers of what I have said about forwarding the troops and bringing arms, that you repair here youi-self to receive your instructions, and to be in readiness to give such directions to them as

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1111 may be

necessary for these purposes.

To

Brig.

I



obedient servant,

am,

sir,

your most

,,,

tjEORGE Washington.

Gen. James Wadsworth, com.

Militia.

in

fee,

JUNE,

much haste, you may appear.

will

27, 1776.

Dear

Sir: Congress having disapproved the proceedings of the Commissioners at Albany, on the 13th instant, transmitted them

in

my

letter

of the 21st, so tar as they relate

two companies oi Mohegan and Stockbridge Indians ; in compliance with their resolve, (a copy of which is enclosed,) I am to request you to put the most early and speedy stop to the same. The honourable President observes in his letter, that the resolve for employing Indians

please to pardon

We have the honour to be, with most obedient, humble servants. By order of the Committees

led to the mistake.

I

am, dear

&tc.,

sir,

George Washington.

To

General Schuyler.

LIEUTENANT DAVISON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Armed Sloop Since our

last,

we

have, in

Schuyler, June 27, 1776.

company with Captain Ro-

armed sloop Montgomery, retaken four prizes, which were taken by the Greyhound man-of-war, bound for Sandy-Hook two brigs, belonging to Nantucket, with oil, one with near five hundred barrels on board, and the other one hundred and fifty; also, a schooner and a sloop, the schooner belonging to Cape-Ann, loaded with molasses and some sugar the sloop outward bound, belonging to RhodeIsland, loaded with flour and lumber. We have intelligence by one of the prisoners, that a fleet of one hundred and thirty sail sailed from Halifax the 9th instant for Sandy-Hook, and that General Hotve is on board the Greyhound, which we supposed passed us three days ago, we having observed a ship to the westward of us about that time standing for Sandy-Hook. Captain Rogers has applied to the Committee for a guard, which they have supplied us with, and shall send the prisoners as soon as posgers, of the



;

JosEPH Davison, Lieutenant.

To

His Excellency General Washington.

any inaccuracies

all

due esteem, your

Abel Belknap, Chairman.

To Colonel

James Clinton, commanding

officer at

Fort Con-

stitution.

cadwallader colden,

to ulster county COjnaiTTEE.

jr.,

to raising

is conceived in such terms as to give, at first view, a latitude of construction as to the place in which they are to be raised, and the Commissioners must have understood it so, which

1112

that

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. New-York, June

1776.

Hanover

Gentlemen: On Monday

Precinct,

June 27, 1776.

between the hours of eleven and twelve, a number of armed men surrounded my house, then raising me out of bed, told me they were sent by order of the Joint Committee of Neivburgh and Nav- Windsor to search my house, which I readily submitted to, and used the company in every respect with the greatest good humour and civility. The next morning they told me the Committee desired me to appear before them the day following. I told them L should wait on them, but they replied they were ordered to keep me in custody until that time. I then desired I might be kept under guard at my own house that I would maintain and pay the guard. This was also refused, and I was threatened to be rode upon a rail if I would not go otherwise so I was coinpelled to go with a guard out of the party to Mr. Jackson, of NewWindsor, when I was confined for twenty-four hours and, though Colonel Ellison offered to become bail for my appearance, I was not permitted to go to his house to lodge. The next day being Saturday, I was carried before the Committee, where, waiting till near sunset, I was called in by the Committee, and asked if I would choose to be tried by the County Convention or before that Board. I desired to know the charge against me, and was answered, nothing but a grand suspicion of my being inimical to the American cause. I said I had made no secret of my principles and opinions on these matters, while I thought they might in the least contribute to ward off the calamities I foresaw must attend the publick measures then adopted, and which is now too unhappily come to pass that when I found I could do no good that way, I had entirely avoided interfering in any shape in publick affairs; and further said, if there was any charge against me of any kind, I thought, by the rule of the Congress, it was to be made to the Committee of the Precinct in which I resided, so chose to have the affair referred to them and was answered that that would be appealing to a Board of no greater authority than their own besides that, they had reason to think the Committee of Hanover too remiss in their duty, and under some undue influence. I then said I was willing to have a hearing or trial before the County Committee, and so was discharged upon my parole to appear before your Board on notice by letter froin the Chairman, and which I now desire may be as soon as possible for since I came home I have been informed that some night

last,

;

;

;

;

;

COLONEL JAMES CLINTON TO GENERAL WASHINGTON.

;

Fort Constitution, June 27, 1776.

May it please your Excellency: Since I wrote to you I received the within letter, but I think it necessary to have your orders before I comply with the within request. I hear the Committees have taken Colonel Cadwallader Colenemy

den, on suspicion of being an

to the liberties of Ame-

but what they will do with him

I cannot tell. Lawer Poughkeejysie sometime ago and has been likewise taken by the Committees and sent back by a guard to Poughkeepsie. I am, dear General, your most obedient, humble ser-

rica

;

Craniiey,

who

left

advertised there,

is

James Clinton,

'

To

His Excellency General Washington,

;

of the party who came to my house in the night, the next day went through the neighbourhood and reported that they had found a man in my house charged with messages and papers from on board the man-of-war that he had inade and that his escape, and that they were in pursuit of him one of their own body actually personated such a one, who ;

;

Colonel.

New- York.

appeared to be fiying before the party.

As At

a meeting of the Committees for the Precincts of Newburgh 5 and New-Windsor, on the 26th of June, 1776. 5

Dear

I

am

daily threatened with

destruction both to

my

person and property, and this seems to be calculated to raise the resentment of some mad mob against me, 1 think it highly necessary for my safety to have this matter cleared up to the publick and as at present there is no other way

Sir: As complaints have been made before these in the Precinct o( Neivburgh but by a hearing before you, I do hereby request you will as being very dangerous to the cause in which we are engaged, we, the said Committees, in conjunction, do request cause this matter, and any complaint against me, to come beand pray that you will be pleased to grant us Lieutenant fore you as soon as may be and you will oblige, gentlemen, Israel Smith, with twenty-five good men, for the space of your obedient humble servant, Cadwallader Colden, Jun. one week, in order that we may get some of these rascals apprehended and secured. If you shall think well of this To the General Committee for the County of Ulster. matter, and it be consistent with your duty, we beg our request may be complied with without delay. If you are scarce In County Committee, New-Pallz, June 28, 1776. of arms we will furnish them ammunition we are destitute of at present, therefore beg they will bring a supply with Ordered, That Cadwallader Colden, Esq., be notified to them. We propose to send Major Samuel Logan in com- appear at the house of ^)(;i Dubois, on Thursday next, the pany with Lieutenant Smith ; also, a good pilot, who un- 4th Juhj, by ten o'clock, in the forenoon, there to answer the derstands the woods well. We need not say much to you, charges that then may appear against him touching his being sir, on this occasion, as you know our situation and being an enemy to the American cause.

Committees of sundry persons

;

;

;

;

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1113

Ordered, That Cadwallader Coldcn, Jim., Esq., be served with a copy of the above. Older of the Committee

By

Robert Boyd,

which I did not know when I addressed my letter to their County Committee. Cadwallader Colden, Jun.

1776.

To



servant,

To Captain Johannes A. Hardenburgh You are hereby requested and commanded by

JAMES SMITH TO NEW- YORK COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

on sight hereof,

to

Eustatiufl,

.St.

entire

June

1776.

2fi,

stranger, the critical

me to address and trouble hundred weight of gunpow-

situation of the times necessitates

you with the disposal of

five

der, as per

:

mittee,

,,

SETH Harding.

Governour Trumbull.

Gentlemen: Although an In Committee for the County of Ulster, at the Paltz, ~i July 4, 1776. 5

1114

caimot tell until after trial. Tiie ten sail of ships off the harbour is the last bound to Boston by the best accounts. I am, witii due respect, your Honour's most obedient, 1

humble

Jun., Chairman.

N. B. The Chairman of the County Committee is the same that was the Chairman of the Joint Committees o{ Newburo-h and New-Windsor, or at least one of that Committee,

he, JUNE,

Com-

this

take Cadwallader Colden, Jun.,

Esq., in your custody, as it appears to this Committee that Mr. Colden is inimical to the American cause, and that you,

with a sufficient guard of the men under your command, convey said Cadwallader Colden, Jun., Esq., to the common jail of this county, and that you deliver him to the keeper and the keeper of said jail is hereby strictly of said jail required and commanded to receive said Cadivallader Colden, Jun., Esq., and him to keep in safe custody, at his own expenses, until from thence discharged by the Provincial Congress or this Convention and for your so doing this shall

bill of lading enclosed,* requesting that the net proceeds may be remitted immediately, if any opportunity offers, of either of the articles annexed for your government. Should this not be the case, I desire the proceeds may be remitted to Mr. Joseph Donaldson, merchant in Philadelphia, with a letter intrusted to the care of the Captain for that gentleman. This is not the first shipment of the article or the last 1 intend, therefore flatter myself you will, as the guardians of the publick, pay some attention to this small

;

shipment. I am, with the highest respect and veneration, gentlemen,

your most obedient, humble servant,

James Smith.

;

To

be your sufficient warrant. By order of the Committee

any port or place except Philadelphia or

Robert Boyd,

In your favour of the 21st instant, your Honour was At pleased to order me to continue here till further orders. that time it appeared with some little chance of success small. There have been since, I look on the chance to be :

ever since Sunday last ten ships cruising off Boston harbour; two of them men-of-war, eight with Highlander troops. By the best accounts it appears that the troops at Halifax in number one sailed on the 10th instant for Neiv-Yorlc hundred and fifty sail. Shall give your Honour an account



my

At present think there is but Hope your Honour will think proper to

captures in a few days.

little

chance here.

give

me orders

to

precincts.

Constitutional Post-Oflace, Williamsburgh, 7 June 38, 1776. 5

Boston, June 27, 1776.

of

its

Jun., Chairman.

CAPTAIN HARDING TO GOVERNOUR TRUSIBULL. Sir

Committee or Council of Safety of

the Honourable the

proceed to Neiv-London, by the next post.

Your Honour's orders shall punctually follow. The statement of this action is not in print, for wise reasons. The

ed

The Postmaster-General having empowered and directme to receive the Quarterly Accounts of the following

and to setde with the Riders, it is expected the sevePostmasters will strictly comply with those instructions, that I may be enabled to pay the Riders punctually, for whose services the General Posl-Office is now considerably in advance, owing to many of the Postmasters never having rendered any account to the Secretary and Comptroller, R. Offices, ral

first establishment of the American of the Offices that are to make their quarterly payments to me: Hampton, Yorh; Petersburgh,

Bache, Esq., since the

A

Post-Office.

list

; 2 casks five-penny nails ; 1 set small weights ; 2 iron spades part of a cask currants; 15 barrels pease; 6 barrels flour; 2 barrels barley; 9 barrels pork ; 27 barrels beef ; 19 kegs butter; 15 barrels oat meal; 2 tierces and part of a tierce vinegar; 2 barrels herring; 1 bag rice; 74 bags bread; 14 hogsheads bread water cask.

nails

;

Captains of the four schooners dispute with each other one says. You did not fight, and, You did not fight and so they go on. I have thought proper to libel for three-fourths of the ship George and three-fourths of the brig Annahclla, and my ;

;

proportion of die ship *

What

Lord Howe.*

1 shall

recover

IXVENTOHT OF THE CARGO TAKEN OUT OF THE SHIP LORD HOWE. DOSTOS, JUNE 19, 1776.

76 small-arms, 1 ditto, 12 ditto, are S9 muskets 82 bayonets; 71 cartouch-boxes; 65 bags bread; 1 barrel pease; 2 pounds powder; part of a 3 hogsheads rum, 1 cask and part of a cask vinegar cask of currants one part out; 6 casks mess pork; 6 casks mess beef; 17 casks ship's ;

;

;

provisions; 13 barrels oat meal; II barrels pease; 1 barrel barley, 1 ullage ditto 4 barrels flour 1 barrel herring 9 bags bread, 2 hogsheads and 1 barrel ditto part of a cask hair powder ; I cask canteens and camp kettles; 54 blankets; 1 barrel meal; 2 hags tent pins and mallets; part ;

;

;

;

1 box cana keg molasses 4 bundles iron hoops dles; 1 bundle hammocks; 6 iron spades; 3 boxes bullets; 3 pair hand screws; 1 iron pot; I box containing 93 cutlasses; a box containing a markee and materials ; 1 10 canvass knapsacks, 36 hatchets taken out and

of 10 coils cordage

;

;

;

carried up.

IlECEIVETl OVT OF THE SHIP GEOllGE. Tos, JUNE 23, 1776.

INVtNTOni OF THE CARGO

20 fusees; 31 small-arms; 6 kegs part of a bag flints

bullets

BOS-

and shot; 6 bundles paper

2 kegs part filled with cartridges 2 trunks and 2 a cask containing a few books and 1 bundle bedding portmanteaus; 1 black trunk; I bundle; 1 black canteen 1 red bundle; 1 chest; 1 portmanteau; 3 casks porter; 1 cask hams; 3 casks bottled wine; 7 hogsheads and part of a hogshead rum; 3C1 black shoulder belts; 74 bundles and 1 bag gun straps; 1 field bed and 2 bundles binding 4 markecs ; the Quartermaster's camp equipage Colonel CampbeWs ditto; a bundle ditto not directed; 3 field tents and materials; 6 bundles tent poles for markees; 12 bundles common tent poles; 7 bundles leather bullet pouches; 3 cartouch boxes; 6 kegs bullets and shot; 23 camp tents ; a remnant of ticklenburg 1 cask and 2 bundles tentpins; 1 cask tin canteens, and 69 loose; 10 tin pans; 23 camp kettles; 1 package tent stools ; 82 canvass knapsacks ; 199 hair knapsacks a bale containing 80 blankets ; a bale containing 50 watch-coats ; 1 box black plumes; 4 bundles soldiers' clothing; 1 bundle stockings; 3 pair shoes; 2 bags with belts and knapsacks; 2 pieces plaid; 7 bonnets; 2 pieces for cartridges

;

;

;

;

;

;

;

;

and part of a piece duffel; 144 soldiers' blankets; 33 beds; 85 pillows; a bale of brown paper ; 44 hatchets ; 1 bundle twine ; 1 cask sheathing

INVESTOnX OF THE CARGO OF THE ERIGAXTINE AXSABELLA, TAKEN OUT. BOSTON, JUNE 29, 1776.

AS

FAR AS

Received into the store from the

31 small-arms, by Captain Waters. 240 pairs of shoes a bale of tents, quarters 23 ; 2 cables 1 piece junk; 8 barrels and 3 1 ditto 11-inch, 20 fathom; ullages of oat meal ; 1 cask pease ; 3 casks pork ; 9 casks beef; part of a cask vinegar ; 1 box candles 1 tierce rum ; 1 hogshead rum ; 8 sails and a bundle old canvass, delivered to Mr. Barrett ; 6 iron spades ; 2 shod sloop as follows

;

:

12J-inch;

;

shovels

;

a piece sheet lead

;

1

firkin butter

1

;

crosscut

saw

;

4 tent poles;

5 pack saddles ; 2 anchors 1 small ditto, iron stocked. Received by brig Defence: 3 barrels and an ullage of flour; 2 barrels 16 17 leather bullet pouches ; 18 bayonets pease 43 cartouch boxes shoulder straps ; sundry rigging and clocks ; 3 long bolts for shackels and great. casks, small 126 empty iron hoops; bundle 1 Received by the /ran-oi; 30 small-arms; 47 cartouch boxes; 16belts; 42 leather bullet pouches; 25 gun straps 36 cutlasses; 39 bayonets; ;

;

;

;

;

8 boxes candles 4 pairs shoes ; 1 drum; 1 halbert; 1 old ensign. Received by the sloop 1 anchor, 1 1 cwt. 3 qr. 12 lbs.; a parcel of loose bread; 10 water casks; some rigging and blocks; a cabin stove; a piece of junk; a hag containing nails; 8 casks mess beef; 4 ditto pork; 6 casks ships' provisions ; 1 barrel oat meal ; 2 hogsheads rum ; 1 keg bullets; 3 pack saddles; part of a cask beef; part of a barrel herring: ;

:

about 7 chaldrons coal. • Shipped, by the grace of GqiI, in good order and well-conditioned, by James Smith, in and upon the good schooner pilot-boat called the Loveli^ Lass, whereof is master, under Goil, for this present voyage, and now riding at anchor in the road of St. Ktistatius, and, by GoiVs grace, bound for PhilaiMphia, or some port in .Yoith-.imerica, of gunpowder, on to say: ten half-barrels, containing five hundred weight Mr. Joseph • the proper assurance and risk of the shipper, and consigned to JJonahlson, merchant, Philadelphia, or to such Committee or Council of marked being Safety as mav be appointed at any other port she arrives at. and numbered as in the margin and to be delivered in like good orJer ;'

at the aforesaid port of Philadelpliia, &c., (tlie danger of the seas only excepted,) vmlo Joseph Donaldson, or such Committhey paying freight for tee or Council of Safety, or to their assigns, he or In the said goods settled already, with primage and average accustomed. witness whereof, the master or purser of the said schooner hath adirmed which three of date, the one and tenor of this all lading, to three bills of void ; and so God send bills being accomplished, the other two to stand

and well-conditioned

the good schooner to her destined port in safety. Dated iu St. Eustatius, June 29, 1776.

Amen. John Taiiob.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1115

Cahin-Poini Smiihfield, Suffolk, RicJimond, Neivcastle, AylctCs Warehouse, Hohhss Hole, Urbanna, and Port,

•>

Ai.BXAtiOERY'vRmE, Deputy Postmaster.

'

JUNE,

fee,

1776.

1116

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CALVERT COUNTY COMMITTEE. Annapolis, June 28, 1776.

[No. 50.]

Gentlemen: When we wrote to you on we did not intend to engage your County in Proposals o/Elisha Tyson, with respect to erecting a Mill for manufacturing Gunpowder at Little Falls «/ Gunpowder River, in Baltimore County, in the Province

of Maryland, about eighteen miles from Baltimoretown, and three from Joppa, in Harford County.

The

Tyson having ah'eady made a dam over stream, and dug a race for the purpose of building a

said Elisha

die said

Water

Grist Mill, proposes, instead thereof, to erect a

Pow-

the 4th instant the expense of

building the barracks desired in our letter for lodging men. were of opinion they should be built at the expense of

We

the Province.

Shall be obliged if you will, as soon as you can, set about erecting them, and the expense shall be paid

We

you.

To

the

are, &tc.

Committee of Observation

County.

for Calvert

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO COUNTY COMMITTEES.

on the sum of one thousand pounds. Convention money, being advanced to him, without interest, for the space of four years, to be repaid in the following manner: One-fourth part thereof in gunpowder at the price given by the Continental Congress at the expiration of one year from this date one-fourth part

you a resolution of Congress, desiring a complete list of the number of inhabitants in each We request you will appoint some persons in your Colony. County for taking the number of inhabitants, both whites and

thereof in the same commodity at the expiration of two years (rom the date thereof; one other fourth part thereof in the

and

shall

it is

returned to you.

der

i\Iill,

and

retain the property in tiie premises,

;

same commodity

at the expiration of three years from the date

hereof; and the other fourth part thereof

in

the

same commo-

[No. 51.]

arise

be obliged

he also proposes the Province shall furnish saltpetre imported into or manufacProvince; as also one-half of the sulphur that ;

him with one-half of the tured in this

become

their property.

engage to manufacture powder at as cheap a rate as it is in the Province o[ Pennsylvania, and in equal quantities, in proportion to the quantity of materials found him, for the use of the Province o( Maryland. He will give bond, with good security, for the performance of the above propowill





sitions.

t.LisHA Iyson.

To

the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland.

June 28, 1776.

WILLIAM LUX TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Snow-Hill, June 28, 177S.

Gentlemen

have already written you that I had made inquiry after and seen Mr. Brotvn. He is willing to wait on you, and this will be delivered you by him. The members of the Convention from this County have orders, as I am told by one of the Committee, to recommend him to you be seems to have been active and spirited on the present The swivels that came in Captain Speake, and occasion. small-arms, lie at Colonel Watts' s. If you will please to give orders to me, I will carry them to Annapolis in our schooner, and one cask of powder, that, in case of an attack from some of the little tenders, we may defend her. She will have twenty men on board. I am sorry they have committed depredations, as it is contrary to the Governour's promise, consequendy the Convention will be justified in making him amenable. I saw two of Captain Nicholson's men that had been taken by them on Friday, on board a sloop belonging to one Mr. Smith. 1 am, very respectfully, gentlemen, your most humble :

I

servant,

To

if

you

will transmit

We

will

it

We

to us as soon as

pay any expense that

may

this request.

are, &ic.

said Elisha

other Colonies

He

enclose

on employing persons to comply with

Tyson proposes to appropriate a large part of the above one thousand pounds to the purchase of saltpetre and other materials from private hands in this and

shall

We

blacks, distinguishing, respectively, the age and sex of each,

dity at the expiration of four years from the date hereof.

The

Annapolis, June 28, 1776.

Gentlemen:

,,,

W ILLIAM

JOHN PENN to SA»rUEL JOHNSTON. Philadelphia,

Dear

:

country.

Unfortunately for us the small-pox has gone through our some measure, occasioned our I expect we shall be able to make a stand at the Lakes. General Burgoyne, with a very considerable force, arrived in Canada some time ago. He lately made prisoners Brigadier-General Thompson and several other oflicers;

troops there, which has, in misfortunes.

though we had but few men killed or taken at the time. A dangerous plot has lately been discovered at NewYork ; the design was to blow up the magazine and kill General Washington. A large number are under confinement, some of note. Governour Tryon is at the bottom several of the General's Guards were bribed. It seems, when the whole is made known, we shall be much surprised. The famous Rogers, who was so acUve last war, is one of the number, and now confined. The first day of July will be made remarkable then the question relative to Independence will be agitated, and there is no doubt but a total separation from Britain will take place. This Province is for it; indeed, so are all, except Maryland, and her people are coming over fast. I shall be much obliged to you to give the enclosed letters passes, and when you have an opportunity, to let me know what is doing in the busy world your way. 1 am, with great respect, dear sir, your most obedient ;

servant.

To Samuel

John Penn. Johnston, Esq., North- Carolina.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE. In Committee of Inspection and Oliservation for Cumberland 7 County, at Carlisle, June 28, 1776. 3

^

Lux.

the Honourable Council of Safety of Maryland.

June 28, 1776.

Sir I arrived here several days ago in good health, and found Mr. Heives well. 1 am truly sorry to inform you that our affairs are in a bad situation in Canada. 1 fear by the time you receive this, our Army will have left that

Whereas complaints were made to diis Committee that John Clark, of Allen Town-

the conduct and sentiments of

MARYT-AND council of SAFETY TO WILLIAM SELBY. [No. 47.]

Annapolis, June 28, 1776.

Sir The Council of Safety has agreed with Mr. Jesse Hollingsworth to send a quantity of flour from Baltimore town to Pitt's Landing, to be carted across from thence to :

County,

have been, and

still are, unAnd wherepursuance of notice, the said John Clark appeared twice before this Committee, when sundry witnesses were examined upon oath, by whose testimony the charges exhibited against him are fully proved And whereas the said John Clark declined making any acknowledgments to his injured country, and in manifest contempt of this Committee, thought fit to set out for his own habitation whilst the Committee had his case under their consideration Resolved, That the said John Clark is an enemy to the rights and liberties of the United Colonies and it is recommended to all the friends of liberty that they have no dealings nor connections with the said John Clark in future, as they regard the welfare of their injured country.

ship, in this

miller,

friendly to the liberties of the L^nited Colonies

:

as, in

:

Chincoteague-Inlet, to be put on board the schooner John, Captain Speake, now lying there. We therefore request the favour of you to give Captain Speake or Mr. Beck every friendly assistance in your power to convey the said flour from the landing across to his vessel. The favour will be acknowledged, and any reasonable expense which you may

:

;

incur therein will be paid by us, as this vessel account of the Province. are, &c.

is

loading on

We

To

William Selby, near Pitt's Landing, Accomack County.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1117

Resolved, That the ahove Resolution be published in the newspapers of this Province. Signed by order of the Committee John Montgomery, Chairman. :

[Read July

1,

1776.]

New-York,

Sir

Junfi 28, 1776.

In compliance with the request of Congress con-

:

tained in your favour of the 25th instant,

and

my

promise

of yesterday, I do myself the honour to inform you that the cost of a ration, according to the Commissary-General's estimate, from the 1st o( July to the 1st of December, will be

York currency. was under in this inmany applications have been made

from eight to eight-and-a-half pence, Having discharged the obligation stance,

and finding that

for victualling

I

the flying-camp, I would, with

all

possible

deference, wish Congress to consider the matter well before

come to any determination upon it. Who the gentlemen are that have made offers upon this occasion I know not, consequently my objections to their appointment cannot proceed from personal dislike nor have I it in view to serve Mr. Trumbull, the Commissary-General, wishing to have the directions of the whole supplies for his emolument, because whatever rations are taken from him save him the trouble of supplying provisions to the amount, withbut out diminishing his pay, that being fixed and certain what influences me is in regard to the pubhck good. I am morally certain, if the business is taken out of Mr. TrumbulTs hands and put into another's, that it may, and will, in all probability, be attended with great and many inconveniences. It is likely, during the continuance of the war between us they

;

;

and Great Britain, that the Army here, or part of it, and the troops composing the flying-camp, will be frequently joined, and under the necessity of affording each other mutual aid. If this event is probable and most certainly it is the same confusion and disorder will result from having two Commissaries, or one Commissary and one contractor, in the same Army in the same department, as did between Mr. Trumbull and Mr. Livingston on the coming of the former to New-York. I cannot discriminate the two cases; and not foreseeing that any good consequences will flow from the measure, but that many bad ones will such as clashing of interests, a contention for horses, carriages, and many other causes that might be mentioned if hurry of business would







permit



confess I cannot perceive the propriety of appoint-

I

ing a different person, or any but the Commissary.

I would few armies, if any, have been better supplied than the troops under Mr. TriLmbulVs care in this instance, which I should suppose ought to have considerable weight, especially as we have strong reasons to believe that a large share of the misfortunes our arms have sustained in Canada sprang from want of proper and necessary supplies of provisions. Mr. Trumbull, too, I am informed, has already made provision in New-Jersey for the flying-camp which will be stationed there, and employed proper persons in that Colony

also add, that

to transact the business incident to his department, in obe-

my

dience to

come under affairs

on

in

of

and his full confidence that it was to management, ftly great desire to see the important post, on which so much depends, go orders,

this

much upon

unhappy enough

my

excuse

sity

there

the subject, and will,

to differ in opinion

I

hope,

if I

me am

with Congress, plead

have taken. I would also beg leave to mention to Congress the necesfor the liberty I

is

of some

new

regulations being

respecting the Chaplains of this

ber that applications were

was conceived too low if

Army.

made

it

They

entered into will

remem-

to increase their pay,

which it was

support and that done for the whole, that the and one be appointed to two allowance. This latter expe-

for their

could not be number should be lessened, regiments, with an additional dient was adopted, and while proposed,

1118

No shifting, no changing from one regiment lo anocan answer the purpose; and in many cases it could not be done, though the regiments should consent as when detachments arc composed of unequal numbers, or ordered from different posts. Many more inconveniences might be port.



;

hut these,

it

presumed,

is

will sufficiently

show

the defect of the present establishment, and tlx; propriety of an alteration. What that alteration shall be Congress will

please to determine.

Congress, I doubt not, will have heard of the plot that was forming among many disaffected persons in lliis city and Government for aiding the King's troops upon their arrival. No regular plan seems to have been digested, but several persons have inlisted and sworn to join them. The 1 am in hopes, by a timely discovery, will be suppressed and put a stop to. Many citizens and others, among

matter,

whom

is the Mayor, are now in confinement. The matter has been traced up to Governour Tryon, and the Mayor appears to have been a principal agent, or go-between him and

the persons concerned

cated to some of the

in

The

it.

Army, and

plot

had been conimuni-

part of

my Guard

engaged

it. Thomas Hickey, one of them, has been tried, and, by the unanimous opinion of a Court-Martial, is sentenced to

in

die,

having

inlisted himself

and engaged

others.

The

tence, by the advice of the whole Council of General

sen-

Of5-

execution to-day at eleven o'clock. The others are not tried. I am hopeful this example will produce

be put

cers, will

many

in

salutary consequences, and deter others from entering

into the like traitorous practices.

The

enclosed copy of a resolve of the Provincial Conshow that some of the disaffected on Long-Island have taken up arms. I have, agreeable to their request, sent gress will

a party after them, but have not as yet been able to apprehend them, having concealed themselves in difficult woods and morasses. General Gates set out on Tuesday with a fine wind, which has been fair ever since, and would soon arrive at Albany. I this moment received a letter from Lieutenant Davison, of the Schuyler armed sloop, a copy of which I have enclosed, and to which I beg leave to refer you, for the intelligence communicated by him. I could wish General Howe and his armament not to arrive yet, as not more than a thousand Militia have yet come in, and our whole force, including the troops at all the detached posts, and on board the armed vessels which are comprehended in our returns, is but small and inconsiderable when compared with the extensive lines they are to defend, and most probably the army that he brings. I have no further intelligence about him than what the Lieutenant mentions, but it is extremely probable his accounts and conjectures are true. I have the honour to be, with sentiments of great esteem,

,„„ cv. Robert bExsos, of c y.

at

Armed

;

— — ;

Since our

last

sloop Schuyler, off Fire-Island, June 27, 1776.

we

have,

in

company with Captain Rogers,

of the armed sloop Montgomery, retaken four prizes, which were taken by the Greyhound man-of-war, bound for SandyHook : two brigs belonging to Aff?!fMfATf, with oil one



has near five hundred barrels on board, and the other one

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1119



also a schooner and a sloop, the schooner fifty belonging to Cape-Ann, laden with molasses and some sugar ; the sloop outward bound, belonging to Rhode-Island,

hundred and

Army,

1776.

1120

have thought proper to confirm and require you to execute the said sentence upon the said Thomas Hickey this day, at eleven o'clock in the forenoon, upon the ground between the Officers of the said

These

We

have intelligence by one laden with flour and lumber. of the prisonei-s that a fleet of one hundred and thirty sail

Halifax the 9th instant for Saiidy-Hook, and that General Howe is on board the Greyhound, which we supposed passed us three days ago, we having observed a ship to the westward of us about that time standing for Sandy-Hook. Captain Rogers has applied to the Committee for a guard, which they have supplied us with, and sailed from

shall

JUNE,

&:c.,

I

are, therefore, to will

encampments of the Brigades of Brigadier-General Spencer and Lord Stirling; and for so doing this shall be your sufficient warrant. Given under my hand this twenty-eighth day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six.

George Washington.

Head-Quarters,

Ne

-York, June 28, 1776.

send the prisoners as soon as possible.

New-York, June 28, 1776.

Joseph Davison, Lieutenant.

By virtue have

By

this

of,

and

day, at

obedience to, the foregoing warrant, I the time and place therein ordered and diin

His Excellency George Washington, Esq., General and Commander-in-Chief of the Army of the United

rected, caused 7%oniasii;VA:f)/, the prisoner within mentioned,

Colonies

and accordingly return

To

:

the Provost-Marshal

of the said Army

be dead by the neck which sentence, by the unanimous advice of the General death, by being hanged

this

warrant

fully

therein prescribed,

executed.*

William Morony,

;

he

way and manner

:

Whereas Thomas Hickey, a soldier inlisted in the service of the said United Colonies, has been duly convicted by a General Court-Martial of mutiny and sedition, and also of holding a treacherous correspondence with the enemies of said Colonies, contrary to the Rules and Regulations estaand the said blished for the government of the said troops Thomas Hickey, being so convicted, has been sentenced to till

to suffer death in the

shall

Provost-Marshal in *

the

Army of the

United Colonies.

New-Youk,

July 1, 1776. hast Friilay, in the forenoon, was executed in a field between the Colonels .McDou^alt and Uuntin^toiCs camp, near the Botvery Layie^ (in the presence of near twenty thousand spectators,) a soldier belonging to his Excellency General Washington's Guards, for mutiny and conspiracy ; being one of those who formed, and was soon to Iiave put in execution, that horrid plot of assassinating the StaiT-Officers, blowing up the magazines, and securing the passes of the town, on the arrival of the hungry Ministerial myrmidons. It is hoped the remainder of those miscreants, now in our possession, will meet with a punishment adequate to their crimes.

General Return of the Army of the LTnited Colonies, commanded by His Excellency George Washington, Esq., General and Commander-in-Chief; Head-Quarters at New-York, June 28, 1776. OFFICERS present.

RANK AND Commissioned.

FILE.

Wanting

J^on-cmnStaff.

to

complete.

Since

last

Return.

missioned.

REGIMENTS.

Colonel Hand's Colonel Learned's Colonel Nixon's Colonel Prescoti's Colonel Yarn urn's Colonel Parsons's Colonel Hitchcock's Colonel Little's Colonel Reed's Colonel Huntington's Colonel Webb's Colonel Arnold's Colonel Ward's Colonel Wyllys's Colonel Bailey's Colonel Baldwin's Colonel McDougall's Colonel Rilzema's Colonel Magaw's Colonel Shea's Five companies of Colonel Wayne's Total

553 547 484 417

487 269 288 310 289 429 315

401

579 394 469 530 544 557

343 339 373 351 386 SOI 342 358 256 302 363 493 461 334 18-20 17 13G 140 122 141 14 30

1

17 15

575

-295

389 744

53-2

508 553 539 492 469 466 520 517 357 231 1,931

73

10,368 10 15 2,832

30 5 27 10:

Joseph Reed, Adjutant-General. Return of General Scott's Brigade, New-York, June 29, 1776.

REGIMENTS.

Sixty-seven

is

the establishment

for a Company.

1121

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, JUNE,

Return of the Regiment of Artilkry in United Colonies, commanded by

the service

Henry Knox,

of

Esq.

the

Return of service

the

1776.

1122

Nkw-York Company of

of the United Hamilton.

Colonies,

Artilkry, in

tite

commanded by Captain

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, JUNE,

1123 loss

was so inconsiderable

in

numbers, tliough

I regret

much

1124

Halifax the 9th instant, bound for this place, and well assured that General Howe is already arrived at the Hook in the Greyhound. I do. therefore, in the most pressing manner, request that you would not lose a moment's sail, left

am

the captivity of General Thompson. I

1776.

have written Congress about carpenters on General Ar-

nold's letter, and, having none to s|)are from hence, have pointed out the necessity of their sending some from Philadelphia ; if not there, withdrawing, for the present, those em-

ployed up the North Biver, deeming it a matter of infinite importance to have a considerable number of gondolas on the Lakes, to prevent the enemy from passing. I have directed the Quartermaster-General to procure and forward you the anchors and cables, mill-saws and files, if to be had. I have also requested Colonel Knox to examine whether some more field-pieces cannot be sent uji; and I design to order a further quantity of

powder to be forwarded you, to answer two purposes one, that you may have proper supplies for the several posts and every contingency, the



I do not wish to keep a larger stock here than be necessary, lest any unfortunate event should cast up, and we be deprived of more than we are yet able to lose.

time

will

as a sufficient force arrives to enable

the

their

in

all

much

respect, gentlemen, your very

possible despatch in this business,

To

George Washington. P. S. Congress, by a letter I received from the President have resolved upon four thousand men more to augment the Army in the Northern Department, and recommended the Colony of New-Hampshire immediately to send one regiment of Militia, Massachusetts two, and Connecticut one. They have also resolved on a bounty of ten dollars for every soldier who will inlist for three years, and requested the several Governments who are to furnish Militia to do it with all possible expedition.

have taken some valumore transports safely brought in, with about three hundred and twenty or thirty Highland vessels at the eastward

able prizes, and also three

Captain Biddle, one of Commodore took two also, with about one hundred and put all the prisoners on board one of the

troops well accoutred.

Hopkins's fifty more.



fleet,

He

we fear she is retaken ; the arms he took into his vessel. The other prize was retaken, and again taken another by of our vessels. prizes

own

Yesterday I received a letter from Lieutenant Davison, of the Schuyler armed sloop, advising that he, with another of our cruisers, had retaken four prizes which had been taken

by the Greyhound man-of-war.

remain, with

Massachu-

New-York, June

Sir

By certain

:

advices just received,

that General

Greyhound.

Howe I

one hundred and

I

am

28, 1776.

informed that

thirty sail, left //a/«yax ;

and

am

well assured

already arrived at the Hook,

is

in

The

persons on board the General Hoxoe was on board the G reyhound, and sailed from Halifax the 9th instant, with one hundred and thirty-two transports that they saw a vessel, the evening before, standing towards the. Hook, which they imagined was the Greyhound. There is reason to conclude he is now there. The Militia ordered for the defence of this place come in slowly not more than a thousand have yet arrived. Our force by no means so strong as it should be. It is said, and I believe with authority, that twenty tons of jK)wder and two thousand pounds sterling worth of goods, have got into Providence. I am, dear sir, your most obedient servant, prizes informed the Lieutenant that

;

:

George Washington.

request that you would not lose a moment's time in sending

forward the Militia of your Province, as the enemy will undoubtedly attack us in our weak state as soon as a sufficient force arrives to enable them to attempt it with the least

and our safety, in a great measure, depends on the seasonable arrival of the Militia from the several Colonies who are to furnish them. Relying on your probability of success,

using

all

much

respect and esteem,

possible despatch in this business, sir,

I

remain, with

your very humble servant,

George Washington.

To

the

Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Governour of Con-

(A similar letter to the above was forwarded by the same express to Brigadier-Ueneral IVadsworth, at Durham.)

COLONEL REED TO NEW-JERSEY CONVENTION. Head- Quarters, New-Y'ork, June 28, 1776.

Sir At the request of General Washington I enclose you a copy of a letter received this morning, from which, and other advices, there is no doubt General Howe is arrived It would be too danat the Hook, with a very large force. :

gerous a secret to trust to a letter to mention how inadequate Let it suffice to say that, unour Army is to encounter it. less the most speedy and effectual measures are taken to

throw a body of men, well-armed, into this city, the most fatal 1 am, therefore, to consequences are to be apprehended. enjoin the honourable body over whom you preside to exert their utmost efforts at this critical juncture, when, in all human probability, the fate of our country, our lives, liberties, and property, depend upon the spirit and activity that will be shown in a very short time. Agreeable to your resolve, empowering the General to call in the Militia, he has written General Livingston for that purpose, unless it appeai-s clearly to him that troops, under the new establishment, and those well-armed, can be

sooner procured. a most melancholy truth that of our little Army two thousand are wholly destitute of arms, and near as many with arms in such condition as to be rather calculated to discourage than animate the user. No further arguments can be necessary to gentlemen of discernment and lovers of their country, and such have appeared to direct the publick affairs o( New-Jersey during this tempestuous scene depending, therefore, on your utmost It

is

at least

;



1776. The Committee of both Houses, to whom was commitlcd the above letter, have attended that service, and beg leave to report, that letters be written immediately, according to the form herewith reported, to the several Committees appointed to expedite the raising of the men destined for ./Vt-K'-l'ori, desiring them to forward their march with all possible expedition that an answer be also written to General IVashington, informing him of the measures the Court have taken to raise the men and forward their march lo JVeiv-Tork ; and that these letters be sent by express, and signed by the President of the Council. •

July

2,

;

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY. New- York, June

Gentlemen: By formed that a

fleet,

28, 1776.

certain advices just received,

consisting of one hundred

I

and

the

do, therefore, in the most pressing manner,

necticut.

last night,

Our armed

1

servant,

general WASHINGTON TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

the 9th instant, bound for this place

Major-General Schuyler, Northern Department.

humble

the Honourable Provincial Convention of

a fleet, consisting of

To

with

setts-Bay.*

instance.

;

it

George Washington.

work.

;

attempt

I promise myself it will march. Relying on your

using

I would have you make ready everything necessary for taking post at Fort Stanwlv, and, when you are prepared, to use your utmost industry for erecting and completing the

be extremely proper to forward on the Militia for reinforcing the several garrisons on the communication, and securing the different passes. I wish they were not so slow in repairing to the places of rendezvous but I would fain apprehend they will be in time to prevent any attempts our enemies may have in view. I am extremely sorry for your indisposition, and that you should be so harassed by the ague and fever and wishing you a perfect recovery from it, and a speedy one, I am, dear sir, your most obedient servant,

to

attack of the enemy, yet

fii-st

not occasion any delay

may

It will

them

the least probability of success. And although 1 cannot expect, by reason of the distance, that your quota of troops will reach this so seasonably as to afibrd us assistance upon

other, because

Our most vigorous exertions will be required in every I am convinced our enemies will strain their every nerve against us this campaign, and try to injure us wherever we may be unprovided.

sending forward the Militia of your Province, as the undoubtedly attack us in our weak state as soon

in

enemy

am

in-

thirty

All which

is

humbly submitted. Per order

T. Cdshiho.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1125 am

I

efforts,

to present

his

Excellency's most respectful

&tc.,

Hon. Samuel Tucker, Esq., President,

Pursuant

k,c.

COLONEL REED TO NEW-YORK CONVENTION. Head-Quarters,

Sir

:

By

New- York, June

his Excellency's directions, he received this morning.

28, 1776.

enclose you a copy

I

The

importance of and the critical situation of affairs, will doubtless suggest to your honourable body the necessity of paying immediate attention to those matters contained in his letter of yesterday; and if any further measures can be taken to forward the Militia expected for the defence of this post, To gentlemen so zealthat they be immediately procured. ous in the publick cause, and well apprized of all circumstances, arguments are unnecessary. I am, sir, most respectfully, your obedient and very humof a

letter

the intelligence,

ble servant,

Nathaniel Woodkull, Esq., President,

770.

to a resolve

vernment, and the names of the several voters, and the Deputies they had voted for, being carefully counted, a majority of votes appeared (or Abraham Yates, Jun., Robert Yatet Robert Van Rensselaer, Abraham Ten Broeck, Christopher Yates, Peter R. Livingston, John James Bkf.cker, Jacob Cuyler, Leonard Gansevoort, John Ten Broeck, Matthew Adgale, and John 'Taylor. This Committee do thereupon declare the said persons to be duly elected

;

or any three of them, represent this City and vincial Congress, for the purposes

mentioned

and that they,

County in

in Pi-o-

the resolves

of said Congress.

A

true

copy from the Minutes:

Matthew

Reed.

J.

To the Hon.

1

of the last general meeting, the polls of the several elections held in the respective Districts in this County for Deputies to represent this City and County in Provincial Congress, with full jjowcr to form a new Go-

Reed.

J.

the

1126

Albany Commitlcc-Chari.ber, June 28,

have the honour to be, your most obedient servant,

To

1776.

ALBANY (nEW-YORk) COMMITTEE.

com|)linients. 1

JUNE,

Visscher, Secretary.

GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL SCHITYLER.

Ste.

Lebanon, June 28, 1776.

Dear

An humble

Petition to the Honourable Provincial Congress.

day received a copy of my to supplicate your Honours with this prayer, that your Honours would give me leave to ascend into your presence, that I may be inquired of, and that I may have a right understanding of the crime alleged against me, as I suppose there is a suspicion of my being

Gentlemen: As

mittimus to

I

this Jail, I

unfriendly to

my

have

this

come now

country; but as for the evidences brought

what the crime is I was taken in the South Bay of LongIsland by the Riflemen, and brought to the Provost guard, and from thence to this Jail, and have been confined ever against me, I have never heard, and

know

not

;

but

I

And now gentlemen may it be your pleasures to grant me the favour of a hearing And as my son was taken with since.

me we

my

vessel, and a passenger named Ebenezer Scribner, beg that your Honours would be pleased to give all of us the favour of ascending into your honourable presence, to be inquired of. As I myself am very poorly, and the passenger is under the Doctor's hands now, and as we are in a very unhealthy place, we rest very uneasy, but still subscribe ourselves your humble petitioners. With submission, your most humble servants, in

all

Nathan Guyer, Lazarus Guyer, Ebenezer Scribner. In

New

City-Hall,

New- York, June

THOMAS ROCHE TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS. New-York, June

28,

The contents of the letters from the Genethough melancholy, ought, however, to be received with that steadiness and fortitude which becomes the soldier and the Christian, who believes that Heaven will never forsake the cause that is just. I firmly believe our cause is righteous, and that we shall be protected from ruin, though we may be severely rebuked and corrected. The liberty taken by the honourable Commissioners is acceptable, and their requisition will be cheerfully attended to but apprehend that the inlistments already made from the small remains o( Indian tribes in this Colony will render it difficult to raise a company of those people. You will have further accounts from me of what can be done in that respect as soon as can, The on inquiry, be satisfied what number may be raised. two battalions raising here for your department are ordered to be equipped, mustered, and marched, with all possible despatch, and no time will be lost in this preparation. I shall, agreeable to your request, order their march on the most direct road to Bennington, and so on to Skenesborough, and give notice in season that you may take measures accordingTheir baggage will also be sent agreeable to your inly. structions. But few of the troops raised in this Colony have are received. rals,

;

had the small-pox, which tends to retard the inlistments. 1 wish to have proper precautions taken to preserve the Army from the infection, and the Netv-England troops from the danger thereof; and that notice may be given me of the

28, 1776.

Honoured Gentlemen: Hope your Honours

Sir: Yours of the 17th instant, enclosing copies of the doings of the Comn)issioners for transacting Indian affairs, and my son's, of the 2 1st, by your leave, enclosing General Sullivaiis letter, and several of Colonel Arnold's,

measures used 1

776.

will

be

kind enough to see that your petitioner will not starve for want of victuals and being ignorant of the crime laid to his charge, begs of your Honours either to discharge hiin from and in so his confinement or to find him some provision doing you will lay him under the utmost obligation and duty ;

for this end.

of the Conventions in the Masand New-Hampshire were forwarded as desired. am, with great truth and regard, sir, your most obedient,

Yours

to the Presidents

sachusetts I

humble servant,

To

Jonathan Trumbull.

Major-General Schuyler.

;

to serve.

Thomas Roche.

To

the

Members of the Congress.

To

the

Honourable

P. S. Have just received intelligence that propitious Heaven hath revealed a most hellish plot to assassinate our

General and destroy the magazine of ammunition at yewSuch wickedness will never be suiJered to go unYork. punished.

the Provincial Congress

of the Colony

of New- York The Petition of Charles Morse, of the City of NewYork, Conveyancer and Scrivener, showeth: :

That

since the

tish forces in the

commencement of

hostilities

American Colonies, your

by the Bri-

petitioner's busi-

ness hath been so greatly reduced as not to afford a

compe-

and family, and now is entirely stopped Your petitioner therefore, and inasmuch as he has always been a staunch Whig and a sincere friend to the cause of American liberty, humbly prays that your Honours will be pleased to appoint him a Commissary or a Clerk, or any other station under your Honours, as to you shall seem meet and your petitioner will ever pray, inc. tent livelihood for himself :

Charles Morse.

CAPTAIN BIDDLE TO COMMODORE HOPKINS. New-London, June

28, 1776.

Sir: 1 arrived here the 26th oC June, in company with Captain Hacker, in the Fly, who sailed for jSeic-York with There are several vessels a fair wind yesterday morning. Captain Kennedy, who commands here outward bound. signed by one of the Comone of them, showed me a paper mittee of Congress, directed to the commanders of Continental or Provincial vessels of war, desiring they would and another to assist them in getting clear of the land .\s soon as the same purpose, signed by General Putnam. a favourable opportunity offers, 1 propose going out ahead ;

of them, and to give them a signal to return in case 1 see Captain Jones has, according to your orders, gone dant^er.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, JUNE,

1127

I sliall send you, with this, the account of stores, on board the Doria, and have ordered Captain Jones and Captain Hacker to transmit you theirs as soon as pos-

to Boston. &.C.,

sible.

am,

I

your humble servant,

sir,

Nicholas Riddle.

To Esek

Hopkins, Esq., Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Navy, in Philadelphia.

1776.

1128

they are. The wind being small, we did not the schooners until sunset, when, by signals,

come up with we let them Captains came on two vessels we saw

know we were

a friend. One of the board of us immediately, and told us the to windward were two Scotch transports, with at least three hundred men on board, and that the four eight-gun schooners had been attacking them ever since eight o'clock in the morn-

and found them too warm

for them. Captain Harding him how many men they had all lost. He answered not one. He told them they had not been near Well, says the Captain, do you try. enough. Captain Harding answered him that he had already determined

ing,

inquired of

THADDEUS BURR TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Fairfield,

Honoured Sir: By men I write you this,

June 28, 1776.

desire of the Authority

and Select-

Honour and Council of Safety would give us an order for some powder for the use of the battery, and to supply our town stock.

They

to request

that your

are of opinion that four hundred weight will do for

the use of the battery at present, and would be very glad of have taken great three hundred weight for the town.

We

pains to supply the stock since use, but

lick

it

is

weight, for which

it

has been drained for pub-

out of our power, except about seventy

we gave

a dollar a pound.

We

would

willingly purchase for the town, or receive

it in any other Honour and Council may think proper. We very solicitous to be supplied with some as soon as may

way are

that your

we

be, as

are very destitute.

am, with due respect and esteem, in behalf of the Authoand Selectmen, your Honour's most humble servant,

I

rities

Thaddeus Burr.

To

the

Hon. Jonathan Trumbull.

P. S. Since my return from the Assembly, I have received a letter from Mr. Broome, who informs me that he has purchased a permit to transport stores to any of the

French

IVest-Indies.

I therefore,

and we made the best of our way towards them, and at eleven at night found them at anchor a small distance above

that,

where the Light-House formerly stood. We likewise ran them and anchored. Hailed them from whence they came. They answered from England. Captain Harding ordered them immediately to strike. They, like brave soldiers, refused, and immediately a very heavy fire began, and at the end of near two hours we made them surrender, without the loss of one man on our side while, according to the best accounts, we killed twenty, besides many wounded. The schooners all this while were at anchor, some one mile off, and Some half a mile but none so near as to draw one shot from either ship or brig, whilst our brig was within twelve or fifteen rods of the enemy, and received all the fire. I believe our being so near was a great advantage to us, they being so very high that almost all their cannon shot went over us. I conclude by begging your Honour's pardon for troubling you with this long, though very true epistle. From your Honour's humble servant, Sajiuel Smedley. close to

;

;

To

Hon. Jonathan Trumbull.

the

agreeable to the conver-

had with your Honour when at Hartford, now beg you would grant us a permit to import from New-York one hundred barrels of flour, and to export it to some of the Dutch or French West-Indies in the brig Liberty, owned by Burr if Abel, Broome i^ Company, and Samuel Bradley, Esquire also forty thousand red and black oak staves, and twenty thousand hoops, the staves to be exported agreeand forward it to me per first able to the rules of Congress post. I also request of your Honour a permit for Captain Stephen Thorp, of this town, master and owner of the sloop Sally, burdened about fifty tons, to transport from this place to Taunton or Providence, five hundred bushels of Indian corn, five hundred bushels of rye, fifty barrels of wheat-flour, and fifty barrels of rye-flour, as I am informed the people up Taunton River, and round about that place, are in great want of provisions, and from the situation there is but litde danger of falling into the hands of the enemy; and as we have a great deal of corn, rye and wheat on hand, I cannot think it will be any disadvantage to permit it to go to Should your Honour think proper our distressed brethren. to grant the permit, shall take it as a favour if you would sation I

is now in the bay eight transports, with two supposed to be part of the same fleet from Scotland. My reason for mentioning so particularly about the above schooners is, because they want to share equally with us in

N. B. There

frigates,

when it is the voice of almost all the people here that they, according to right, should have but small the prizes

;

;

part,

if

anything, which

wounded

I

suppose

will

be soon judged.

Our

are all likely to recover soon.

;

send

per post.

it

Your Honour's compliance

will greatly oblige yours, ut

Ihaddeus Burr.

'

Brig Defence, Boston-Harbour, June 28, 1776.

Honoured Sir After my respects to your Honour and I think it my duty, as a friend to my country, to ac:

family,

Honour of our

battle with the Scotch ship

Chailcstown, June 29, 1776.

Mv

DEAR Gates

:

I

and

My neglecting this until now, was by expecting brig. something of truth of the matter would have been mentioned in the publick prints by some gentleman of this place, to acquaint this continent of the calm and brave conduct of our We sailed from Plymouth on worthy Captain Harding. After we got Sunday, the 10th instant, in the morning. out of the harbour, we heard a brisk and continual cannonbeing very foggy, could not discover what it was; but expecting the fog soon to clear off, we made the best of our way towards the firing, and at ;

but

just read that the General at Philadelphia.

your Excellency are arrived

it

two P. M. the weather cleared off. Soon after, we discovered from the mast-head one large ship, a brig, and four schooners, die latter making the best of their way from the two. We immediately took them to be what we since found

and

My love and

I shall send an express to him few days, with a minute account of our situation and of the double repulse the tyrant mercenaries have met with. the CommoTheir squadron has been roughly handled dore and the Roebuck dismasted of their mizzens one frigate Rush lost its bowsprit, and another (the Actcon) blown up. Our troops, will give you a compendious detail of it. though raw, behaved most nobly; the fire was extremely hot and incessant. Their troops attempted to land twice, and were twice repulsed by the South- Carolina Rangers. Our loss in the fort was ten killed, thirty-two wounded, seven of whom lost their limbs, but they encouraged their comrades,

respects to the General, that in a



;

My fire

cause of liberty.

two young aids-de-camp, Byrd and A. Morris, stand most nobly. Young old Jenifer and little Noursc strut-

ted like crows in a gutter. The fire was, 1 assure you, very hot. 1 am much pleased with the troops, men and officers,

and really believe them braver than the enemy. But I would not be understood that this affair was decisive it was, most probably, only the prelude to a more serious one the event of which the Great God of Battles only knows I mean the only great and universal God ; not the partial ;

God

of the Jctcs.

Enclosed

is

a return (I dare not say the most perfect) of

apropos, our strength Adjutant-General (w ho :

ading towards Boston

have

after the loss of their limbs, to stand to the

SAMUEL SMEDLEY TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL.

quaint your

GENERAL LEE TO GENERAL GATES.

you have thousand men. If

ment five

shall

;

I is it

I

cannot send in

in

just

now,

We

a few days.

had a thousand

protect these Colonies completely.



it

for the

love) has forgotten a whole regi-

have about

lighthorse, I could

Urge

the General to

urge it I am tired of writing on the subject. Yours, my dear Gates,

p

r

CORRESPONDEiNCE, PROCEEDINGS, kc, JUNE,

1129

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM GENERAL, LEE TO EDMUND PENDLETON, DATED CHARLESTOVVN, SOUTH-CAROLINA, JUNE 29, 1776. Yesterday, about eleven o'clock, the enemy's squadron, consisting of one forty-gun ship and six frigates, came to anchor before Fort Sullivan, and began one of the most Tiieir project was, furious cannonades ever heard or seen. apparently, at the same time to land tiieir troops on the

Twice they attempted it, and as end of the Island. were gallantly repulsed. The ships continued their The behaviour fire on the fort till eleven o'clock at night. of the garrison, both men and officers, with Colonel Moultrie It was brave to the at their head, I confess astonished me. I had no idea that so much coolness and inlast degree. east

often

trepidity could be displayed

was witness

as I

to

in

this

by a

collection of

raw

better

supplied with ammunition,

it is most probable this squadron However, they have would have been utterly destroyed. no reason to triumph one of their frigates is now in flames, bowsprit, the lost her Commodore and a forty-gun another ship had their mizzen shot away, and are otherwise much damaged. In short, they may be said, in this their essay on South- Carolina, to have been woi-sted but I presume they ;

;

make another attempt. Our loss is ten killed and twenty-two wounded seven of

will

;

whom

have lost their legs or arms. The defences of the I fort have received no injury, only one gun dismounted. shall write, when the affair is finished, a more accurate relaIn the tion to your Convention, and to the Congress.

mean

time,

I

think

it

but justice to publish the merits of

Colonel Moultrie and his brave garrison. Colonel Thompson, of the South-Carolina Rangers, acquitted himself most nobly in repulsing the troops who attempted to land at the I know not which corps I have other end of the Island. the greatest reason to be pleased with, Muhlenberg's Vir-

1130

so far as I am able, by unwearied endeavours freedom and Imppinoss of our common rx)un-

for,

to secure the try.

duties of my office whenever you, bo ])leased to direct, relying u|)on the wisdom and virtue of your honourable House to

I shall

enter

gentlemen,

known

upon the

shall

supply my defects, and to give permanency and success to that system of Government which you have formed, and

which is so wisely calculated to secure equal liberty and advance human happiness. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant. P. Henuv, Jun.

Williamsburgh, June 29, 177G.

recruits

Had we been

garrison.

be atoned

1776.

Upper

Whereas

District of Frederick

County, June 29, 1776.

Legislative, Executive, and Judicial powers in

Province are at present exercised by the same body of men, the administration of justice confused and unfixed, the places of the most important trust held by persons disaffected to the common cause o( America, the transactions of the Convention carried on in a secret manner, and such parts only published as they may think jiroper, the reconmiendations of the honourable Continental Congress unregarded, and propositions of the utmost importance determined without consulting the people, and an adulatory address presented Governour Eden, supplicating his interposition with a this

people that has hitherto treated our just petitions with the contempt all which matters have very much alarmed the good people of this District, and filled their minds

greatest

;

with deep concern for the honour and welfare of this Province in particular, and the United Colonies in general, and induced them to publish the following Resolutions, entered into

by the two Battalions of

this District,

and many other

respectable inhabitants thereof, on the 28th and 29th of

June, 1776, and which are as follows Besolved, unanimously. That the present mode of Government in this Province is incompetent to the exigencies thereof, and dangerous to our liberties. Resolved, unanimously, That we are of opinion that the present Convention ought to be immediately dissolved, and a new one elected for the express purpose of carrying the :

ginians or the North- Carolina troops alert, zealous,

enemy

If you,

you

sir,

will,

to the

Congress

they are both equally

till

the operations of

more

are brought to something

like a decision.

think this short relation of sufficient importance,

of course, transmit

fire is this

;

spirited.

shall not write

I

the

and

moment blown

The

it.

frigate

that

was on

up.

Resolves of the Continental Congress of the 15th oi

May

into execution. Williamiburgh, Saturday, June 29, 1776.

This day Patrick Henry, Esq., was chosen Governour of this country, and a Committee appointed to acquaint him therewith. To which he returned the following Answer to the Convention

To THE Honourable the President and House

Resolved, unanimously, That we will support the union of the Colonies with our lives and fortunes.

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN HINDMAN. Annapolis, June 29, 1776.

[No. 52.]

of

favour of the 27th instant, per Mr. Anderson, the Council has laid before the Convention, and, there-

me GoCommonwealth, has been notified to me in the most polite and obliging manner by George Mason, Henry Lee, Dudley Digges, John Blair, and Bartholomew

Mr. Dickinson and others, requires no answer from them. We have enclosed you an order on the Eastern Shore Treasurer for one hundred pounds, which we hope will be sufficient for the present. The Council desire you will furnish them with an account of the expenditure of the money they have already advanced you towards They have determined not to adclothing the troops, Sic. vance any more money without accounts being produced to

Convention

Gentlemen: The

vernour of

:

vote of this day, appointing

this

Dandriclgc, Esquires. sense of the high and unmerited honour conferred upon me by the Convention fills my heart with gratitude, which I trust my whole life will manifest. I take this earliest op-

A

portunity to express my thanks, which 1 wish to convey to you, gentlemen, in the strongest terms of acknowledgment.

When I reflect that the tyranny of the British King and Parliament hath kindled a formidable war, now raging throughout the wide-extended continent, and in the operations of which this Commonwealth must bear so great a part and that from the events of this war the lasting hap;

piness or misery of a great proportion of the will finally result

;

that, in order to

human

preserve this

species

Common-

wealth from anarchy, and its attendant ruin, and to give vigour to our councils and effect to all our measures, Government hath been necessarily assumed and new modelled that it is exposed to numberless hazards and perils in its infantine state ; that it can never attain to maturity or ripen into firmness, unless it is guarded by affectionate assiduity, and managed by great abilities, I lament my want of talents ; I feel my mind filled with anxiety and uneasiness to find myself so unequal to the duties of that important station to which I am called by favour of my fellow-citizens at this

Sir

:

fore, as far as respects

them.

To

truly critical conjuncture.

The

errors of

my

conduct

shall

We

are,

&c.

Captain James Hindman.

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO CAPTAIN

HIND>L\>-.

Annapolis, June 29, 1776.

[No. 53.1

send you the resolve of the Convenappearance of Messrs. James Dickinson, Nicholas Martin, JVilliam Thomas, and John Stevens, before them on Tuesday next, with which you are desired to acquaint them. You will also be pleased to send any persons whose testimony you may think material against them, and

Sir: Enclosed

we

tion i-equiring the

also to order

;



Your

desire.

To

We

up any witnesses whose attendance they may are. Sic.

Captain James Hindman.

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO LIEUTENANT BRACCO. [No. 54.1

Annapolis, June 29, 1776.

Sir: W'e ha\e this minute received your favour of the 26th instant, per Sergeant Smith, and are much concerned

CORRESPONDENCE. PROCEEDINGS,

1131

among the party under We think it most advisable that all the your command. your command who have under not had the small-pox men should be immediately inoculated, and desire you would You will make apply to Doctor Craig for that purpose. All necessary the best bargain you can with the Doctor. expenses will be paid by the Council in behalf of the Pro-

to hear the small-pox has broken out

We

vince.

To

are, &;c.

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY TO JESSE HOLLINGSWORTH. Annapolis, June 29, 1776.

[No. 55.]

Sir: As the former request made by the Council was disagreeable, as you mention to us, to Messrs. Lwc &f Bowley and Captain JVoohey, we thought it most proper to refer the consideration of their claims and proposals, with all the letters relative to that transaction, to the

Conven-

who have

concurred with the report of their CommitYou will tee of Claims, which we send you enclosed. therefore make known to those gentlemen this resolution of the Convention, and you will proceed agreeable to the intion,

we have

structions

you

given you respecting those cargoes, and

please to inform those gentlemen

will

particular

sums

we

will

pay the

to their order.

Lieutenant Moore has made known to us that there are wanting for the artillery here two hundred four-pound balls, two hundred six-pound ditto, and four hundred three-pound These are cast at the Kingsbury Furnace, and we ditto. request the favour of you to expedite them as soon as they possibly can be done. We are, &:c.

To

JUNE,

1776.

1132 when

the morning of the 29th of June,

standing for Cape

May,

discovered six sail of men-of-war, tenders, &:c., making towards him, as also a row-boat. The boat and tenders he soon after engaged and beat off, stood close along shore, and got assistance from Captain JUckes and Barry, when it was agreed to run the brig ashore, which was done and, under favour of a fog, they saved two hundred and sixtyeight barrels of powder, fifty arms, and some dry -goods ;

when

Lieutenant Bennett Bracco.

papers and

&tc.,

the fog clearing away. Captain Montgomery discovered the enemy's ships very near him, and five boats coming to board the brig, on which he started a quantity of powder in the cabin, and fifty pounds in the mainsail, in the folds The men-ofof which he put fire, and then quitted her. war's boats (some say two, some three) boarded the brig, and took possession of her with three cheere soon after which the fire took the desired effect, and blew the pirates forty or fifty yards into the air, and much shattered one of Eleven dead bodies have since their boats under her stern. come on shore, with two gold-laced hats and a leg with a From the great number of limbs floating and driven garter. ashore, it is supposed thirty or forty of them were destroyed by the explosion. A number of people from on board our ships of war, and a number of the inhabitants of Cape May, mounted a gun on shore, with which they kept up a fire at the barges, which the men-of-war, &tc., returned, and killed Mr. TVickes, Third Lieutenant of the Contineutal ship jReprisal, and wounded a boy in the thigh. ;

PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. Philadelphia, June 29, 1776.

Mr. Jesse Hollingsivorth.

Gentlemen

do myself the honour to enclose sundry resolves respecting the further augmentation of the ContiThe Congress have thought it expedient to nental forces.

TO THE PEOPLE OF PENNSYLVANIA. that I reflect on our affairs, the more am convinced of the necessity of a formal declaration of inReconciliation thought of now by none dependence. is but knaves, fools, and madmen and as we cannot offer terms of peace to Great Britain until (as other nations have

Every moment

order a

:

German

I

Battalion to be raised, as soon as possible,

the Colonies of Pennsylvania and Maryland, to be

em-

1

in

done before us) we agree

such manner as will be most likely to defeat the designs of our enemies, and to promote the cause o{ American liberty. I am, therefore, to request you will exert yourselves to carry the enclosed resolves into effect as speedily

;

I shall rejoice to

hear the

rica, in order that tiate a

to call ourselves

by some name,

of the United States of Amebe on a proper footing to nego-

title

we may

peace.

who have and the risk which every man runs who bears arms, either by land or sea, in the Am.erican cause, makes a declaration of independence absolutely necessary, because no proper cartel for an exchange of prisoners can take place while we remain depen-

ployed

in

as possible. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant,

John Hancock,

Besides, the condition of those brave fellows

fallen into the

enemy's hands

as prisoners,

some degree of comfort to a man taken prisoner that he belongs to some national power is the subject of some State that will see after him. Oliver Cromxvell would have sent a memorial as powerful as thunder to any King on earth who dared to have used prisoners in the manner which ours have been. What is it that we have done in this matter? Nothing. We weve subjects o{ Great Britaiii, and must not do these things. Shame on your cowardly souls that do them not! You are not fit to govern. dants.

It

is



Were Britain to make a conquest of America, I would, for my own part, choose rather to be conquered as an independent State than as an acknowledged rebel. Some foreign powers might interpose not in the

latter,

for us in the first case, but

because the law of

all

nations

is

they can-

against us.

Besides, the foreign European powers will not be long neutral,

To

the Honourable

president of congress to convention of MARYLAND. Philadelphia, June 29, 1776.

Gentlemen: You

will perceive

by the enclosed

resolves,

do myself the honour of transmitting in obedience to the commands of Congress, that they have judged it ne-

which

I

augment the Continental forces with a battalion composed of Germans, to be raised in your Colony and Pennsylvania, and to be employed in such manner as will be most likely to defeat the designs of our enemies, and to promote the cause of American liberty.

cessary to

In order to complete the Rifle regiment ailScw-York, the Congress have likewise determined that six companies be two in yom- Colony and four in Virraised for that purpose ginia. I am, therefore, to request, by order of Congress, you will be pleased to appoint the officers, and forward with all possible expedition the raising the companies, agreeable



to the enclosed resolves.

and unless we declare an independence and send em-

The five thousand dollars your Delegates have me and enclosed you have their receipt.

bassies to seek their friendship, Britain will be beforehand

of

with us for the moment she finds that she cannot make a conquest o{ America by her own strength, she will endeavour to make a European affair of it. LTpon the whole, we may be benefited by independence, but we cannot be hurt by it, and every man that is against it is a traitor.

I have and very humble servant,

;

President.

Committee of Safety of Pemisyhania.

received

;

the honour to be, gentlemen, your

John Hancock,

To

the Honourable

the Convention of

their recess, to the

Republicus.

(Same

to the

most obedient President.

Maryland, and,

in

Honourable Council of Safety.

Honourable Convention of Virginia.)

Philadelphia, June 29, 1776.

, I OQ ^11R 1776. Philadelphia. June 29,

x>.

,

I,-

PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, June 29, 1776.

The brig Nancy,

Captain Montgomery, of six three-pounders and eleven men, from St. Croix and St. Thomas for tliis ])ort, with three hundred and eighty-six barrels of gunpowder, fifty fire-locks, one hundred and one hogsheads of rum, and sixty-two hogsheads of sugar, &ic., on board, in

do myself the honour of transmitting sundry resolves respecting the further augmentation of the ContinenThe Congress have thought it expedient to tal forces. Sir:

order a

I

German

Battalion to be raised as soon as possible in

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1133

Marijhmd ,\o bo

the Colonics q( Pennsylvania and

em))loyecl

lies at

in such manner as will be most likely to defeat the designs of our enemies, and to promote the cause oi American li-

which

berty.

to

Your favourof the 27th instant, with its several enclosures, came to hand yesterday. As tiie Congress will not sit this day, I shall take the earliest opportunity, on Monday, of hy-

in

the

JUNE,

&:c.,

Hook, and

1776.

a parly of

1134

men and some

;

situation.

am,

I

in haste,

gentlemen, your luimble servant,

ing their important contents before them.

The

loss

of

Canada

is

Geokge Tavloh.

undoubtedly, on some accounts, to

be viewed in the light of a misfortune. The continent has been put to great expense in endeavouring to get possession of

It

it.

highly probable, too, that our enemies will re-

is

men and

ceive additional strength of both

supplies from

:

save their baggage, cannon, ammunition, sick, &.C., from falling into the hands of the enemy, will aftbrd a partial treat as to

and

ducted

reflect

honour upon the

officers

who

con-

it.

Considering the superior force of the British troops, and a retreat as unavoidable, everything has been done which In short, I am exin such a situation would be expected. tremely glad our Army is likely to get safe out of Canada. I am to request you will please to order Colonel Stephen-

and one other Field Officer of that corps,

son,

to repair to this

Delegates of Virginia and Maryland

city to confer with the

to fill up the companies as expeIf there are any subaltern officers of you recommend, it is the desire of can that corps Congress they should be promoted in preference to those

on the most proper steps ditiously as possible.

whom

now I

to

be taken into pay.

have the honour

humble

to be,

sir,

your most obedient and very

servant,

John Hancock,

To

President.

His Excellency General Washington.



Eleven o'clock. I have this moment received your favour of 28th, which shall be laid before Congress. also received, I have by post, a letter from BrigadierGeneral Whitcomb, returning his commission, and desiring to be excused on account of age and a diffidence of not being able to answer the expectation of Congress. 1

The enclosed copy of a letter came to thought best to transmit to you. 1

am

my

tlio

Honourable the Provincial Congress,

hands, which President.

general WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Head July

HANCOCK. 1,

1776.]

June 29, 1776.

5

Sir: This forenoon we received from the AdjutantGeneral at New-Yorlc a letter informing of the arrival of General Howe at Sandy-Hook with a large force. Enclosed is a copy of a letter we have this moment received from Colonel Taylor, of Middletown. We have taken steps to send forward a considerable numunguarded, and

we

When we

New-York. Our shores are chiefly much in want of arms and ammuni-

are

tion, lead as well as

New-York, June

rely,

first

however, upon your care and protection of every

part of the continent, and doubt not the most vigorous steps

have been taken for our general safety. The bearer, Mr. Hugg, waits upon Congress for the purpose of learning what assistance we may expect from the general plan, and in order to procure ammunition. The two tons of gunpowder, which we learn was ordered for us, we hope will be sufficient for the present but if lead can be added it will be of particular use, as we know not where ;

to collect a

We

quantity of a sudden.

are, sir,

By

your most humble servants.

order of Congress

:

John Covenhoven,

To

Vice President.

the Honourable President Hancock.

Saturday, 10 o'clock A.

Gentlemen

:

I

have

this

that a fleet of forty -five sail

is

29, 177C.

;

per attention to the resolves it enclosed. I observe the augmentation Congress have resolved to make to the forces destined for the Northern Department, and the bounty to be allowed such soldiers as will inlist for three

hope many good consequences will result from and that from the latter a considerable number of men may be induced to engage in the service. I should esteem myself extremely happy to afford the years.

I

these measures

;

Canada department, in compliance with the desire of Congress and your requisition, were it in my power, but it is not. The return which I transmitted least assistance to the

yesterday will but too well convince Congress of my incapacity in this instance, and point out to them that the force I now have is trifling, considering the many and important jjosts that are necessary and must be supported if possible.

But few

Militia have yet come in ; the whole being about twelve hundred, including the two battalions of this city and one company from the Jerseys. 1 wish the delay may not be attended with disagreeable circumstances, and their aid

may

come

not

too late, or

when

may

it

not be wanted.

I

have written, I have done everything I could to call them in, but they have not come, though I am told they are generally willing.

The accounts communicated yesterday, through Lieutenant Davison's letter, are partly confirmed, and, 1 dare say, will turn out to be true in the whole. For two or three days past, three or four ships have been dropping in and I now received an express from an officer appointed to keep a look-out on Staten-Island, that forty-five arrived at the Hook to-day some say more and I suppose the whole fleet will be in within a day or two. I am hopeful, before they are prepared to attack, that I shall get some reinforcements be that as it may, I shall attempt to make the best disposition of our troops, in order to give them a proper reception, and to prevent the ruin and destruction they are

just

;

meditating against us.

As

soon as the express arrived last night, I sent the letColonies to the Quartermaster-General,

ters for the northern

with orders to forward them immediately.

When

Monsieur Wiebert comes (I have not seen him yet) employ him as Congress have directed. The terras upon which he oflers his services seem to promise something from him. I wish he may answer, and be skilled in I shall

the business he says he

powder.

ordered out our Militia we expected some aid from the flying-camp, on this side of the North River.

We

1776.]

;

In Provincial Congress, Burlington,^

ber of our Militia to

1,

Sir: I was last night honoured with your favour of the 26th instant and, agreeable to your request, shall pay pro-



THE PROVINCIAL CONGRESS OF NEW-JERSEY TO PRESIDENT [Read July

at ZJur/tn"-Selecttnen. Jun.,

To the Honourable Committee of Safety for

j New-Hampshire

Colony.

We expect other towns will

send

for military stores

by Mr. Babcock. captain smith to MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore, June 30, 1776.

Gentlemen: ell,

I

Memorandum of Militia

wrote you the 18th

requesting you would appoint him

by Mr. PowThird Lieutenant,

instant,

my

but understand that he is to have a higher station in the troop now to be raised, at which I am very well pleased, I now beg as 1 think him a very deserving young man. leave to recommend the bearer, Mr. Robert Porteus, as a

young man the most fit to fill the station of any one I know, and assure you I shall esteem it as a particular favour if you will appoint him my Third Lieutenant. I must still beg

Ojjicers

who have

not their commit-

sioits.

Samuel Calwell Captain, Thomas Hutchins First LieuLewis Second Lieutenant. James Mc Comas Captain, Benjamin Scott First Lieutenant, Martin Preston Second Lieutenant, James Steel Entenant, Joseph

sign.

Robert Harris Captain, William Coale First LieutenWilliam Downs Second Lieutenant, Joseph Renshaiv

ant,

Ensign.

Bennet Bussey Captain, Joshua Miles First Lieutenant. Jun., Second Lieutenant, Joshua Amos

are deficient in regard of arms.

Last year the Selectmen, upon a recommendation from the honourable Congress for this Colony, furnished the soldiers with arms, which were detained in the service that we are under worse circumstances than when the war began our guns are gone and we have nothing paid us to purchase Not knowing where to more, if they could be procured. purchase these necessary articles, we apply to you, as the guardians of this Colony, entreating of you, by all that is near and dear, to inform the bearer, Mr. Amos Babcock, where and by what means he can be furnished with a sufficiency of arms and ammunition, at least for this town. We are, gentlemen, in behalf of the town of Walpole,

P. S.

the Honourable the Council of Safely of Maryland.

We

behold our wives and our more helpless offspring as an easy prey (shocking thought !) to savages, whose tender mercies are cruelty, and this the rather because we have not the necessary means of defence. of this part of the Colony.

To

this) excites in us ideas

Azeal Hitchcock, o[ James, Ensign.

Alexander Cowen Captain, John Beale Howard First Lieutenant, Samuel Groome Osborne Second Lieutenant, Lambert Wilmer, Ensign. In Captain William McComass Company James Sinclair

appointed Second Lieutenant.

is

WILLIAM ADAMS TO MARYLAND CONVENTION. Windsor, June 30, 1776.

honourable Convention, acquainting them that 1 had received a bad fall from a horse, which had bruised and sprained my shoulder so much that 1 have not been able to ride these three weeks, and still continue so painful that I can scarce rest of nights, and if I were able I do not think it would be prudent to leave home at this time of immediate danger, when all the country is in such confusion, and expects to be plundered by a large number of tendere now in our Sound, piloted and conducted,

Sir:

I

wrote two

letters to the

by our own people, who are gone to them wliom worse treati>ient is exas one Wallace, in Dam. pected than fi'oni the tender-men (Quarter, has revenged himself on Mr. IVilliam. Roberts, by plundering him, and then carrying him off on board the and tenders, tied hand and foot, as I hear from authority this morning I hear they are landing on Nanticokc Point, and that they have burnt Mr. Samuel Mc Chester's house. I hope, under these circumstances, the honourable Conas

we

in

great numbers, and from

believe,



;

vention will excuse ine. I

am,

sir,

your very humble servant,

William Adams.

To

the

Hon. President of Convention o{ Maryland.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, JUNE,

1141

SAMUEL TUCKER TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July

1,

1776.

1142

"that during his respite, the time between his getting an answer from Congress, something may tmn up to make his removal iiiipropr,-r, and at any rate time will be of advantage." to gain I have written to the Cajitain of his guard upon the subject and as Mr. Franklin has evidenced a most unfriendly dis|)osition to our cause; as the Colony Convention have ordered him to ConntcliaU for refusing to comply with such terms as they deemed necessary and proper for him to enter into to procure his liberty as ho does not propose to sign the parole wliich they formed, but has proposed several alterations, I am of his letter

writing and

177C.]

Trenton, Ncw-Jerscy, June 30, 177R.

Sir: At the repeated solicitation of Cuptaiii Thompson and Mr. Alexander IMocCulloch, I beg leave to trouble you with their letter as enclosed, open, as from tlieii- particular circumstances they call up the feelings of humanity. Mr. Thompson is an infirm old man, has a wife and four children, and, as far as I can judge, has but little to support

;

;

them.

Mr. MacCuIloch lost his wife at Qiieheck, has two daughters left, and his all is in (^uebcclc.as he informs me. All they seem to desire is, that if an exchange of prisoners should take place, that, from their particular circumstances, they may be among the first.

Our Convention continue

sitting at

Burlington, and pro-

pose rising this week, unless something of importance should and I came from thence this morning occur to prevent. have tiie honour to be your most obedient, humble servant,



opinion your Committee should interfere

in

the matter and

give immediate orders to the officer of the guard to ])roceed

with him

and

in

execution of the duty wherewith he

further, if

you apprehend there

is

is

charged

;

the least danger of

being rescued, or of the guard appointed to escort him being remiss in their duty, that your Committee should aphis

point a strong escort for the purpose, and direct

them

to as-

;

Samuel Tucker.

To

Hon. John Hancock, Esq.

the

performing the views of the Convention, and conduct him securely to the place fixed upon to receive him. I have enclosed the letter for the officer of the guard, sist in

which, having read, you will seal and transmit him. /I am, Sic, VV ASHI.VGTON. LrEORCE ixr '

Burlington, New-Jersey, June 29, 1776.

A current report

consequence of the cartel entered into between General Arnold and Captain and Forster, an exchange of prisoners is like to take place as we are in another channel than that of the Army, we are Sir:

prevails here that, in

;

under some apprehensions that we may be forgotten; we therefore have taken this early method of troubling you, entreating you would be pleased to direct that our names may be inserted amongst those who are to be exchanged, should Our families, property, Sic, being such a thing take place. within the garrison of Quebeck, we hope your general wellknown humanity will gain us your powerful weight on this

'

To

Dr. William Burnet, Chairman of Committee of Essex County, New-Jersey.

am

Mr. Franklin should con by Convention, the officer has no power to take it unless he has been instructed by them to do it, and should not delay proceeding with him if that proposition was made, much more on account of what The letter he designed for Mrs. Franklin should has been. P. S.

I

of opinion that

be taken care of;

may

it

we

Please excuse this liberty, and sir, your most humble servants,

are,

most respectfully,

Zach. Thompson, Captain Naval Dept, and Master Ship-builder at St. Johns. Alex. MacCulloch, D'y Com'y General for the Province of (Quebeck, made prisoner at Chambly. To the Honourable John Hancock.

EDWARD THOMAS TO GENERAL WILLIAM

Dear General

Being called

country upon some private business of my own, and having the general good always at heart, I have taken some pains to inquire as to the state of the new levies, and, from what I can collect, I believe the companies in this County are not above half full, although some of the companies have augmented In Somerthe bounty to eight pounds Proclamation money. set I believe

There

are

it is

:

not

much

into this part of the

numbers of tenants that say

if

may

as well

At

of the Captains was

much beaten

has been to Congress, and has obtain-

When

ed an order for taking them they dispersed, and several that were called Tories have since appeared to be staunch

to

your charge.

I

have

this

morning received

information that you have halted with him at Hackensack. I

would enjoin

it

upon you

to set off immediately,

and cany

Delays are the resolve of the Convention into execution. dangerous, and should any accident happen, you never could to

our

much

injured country.

therefore, again repeat to you, that

it

is

my

I

would,

advice, immedi-

forward on your journey with and make all possible despatch for the Governour Franklin once had place you are ordered to. his choice, and chose Connecticut, and it is not for you to hesitate on frivolous pretences, but do your utmost to execute the orders you have received in every particular. 1 am, sir, your most humble servant, ately

on receipt of

this, to set

Govemom Franklin,

George Washington. the Captain of Governour Franklin's guard.

knock

a muster some time past in order to recruit men, one-half Colonel Johnson was of two companies came with clubs. knocked down by them, and was afterwards obliged to re-

up.

I

they are taken

their families in the head, for that they will be ruined.

The same day one

:

committed

To

better.

at this season of the year, they

by them.

understand that the Convention of ^cir-Jersey did resolve that Governouri^/'ff/iWm was an enemy to the liberties o( America, and that he should be conducted, under a safe guard, into Connecticut ; and for that purpose he was

Sir

answer your neglect

LIVINGSTON.

Lebanon Township, Hunterdon County, } June 30, 1776. 5

[Extract.]

treat.

be of service.

Head-Quarters, New-York, June 30, 1776.

occasion.

away

if

sent to give the parole required

the Militia collected

Whigs, and as long as they

are kept in fear, I suppose will continue such.

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July

New-Y'ork, June 30, 1776.

had the pleasure of receiving your favour of the 29th early this morning, with which you "have been pleased to honour me, together with the resolves for a further aug-

Sir

:

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO WILLIAM BURNET.

I

mentation of our Army.

The

battalion of

Germans which Congress have ordered

much service, and I am hopebe appointed officers as will complete their inlistments with all possible expedition. 1 shall communicate to Colonel Stephenson and one of his Field Officers what you have requested, and direct them to It is an unlucky cirrepair immediately to Philadelphia. to be raised will be a corps of ful that

Edward Thomas.

2, 1776.]

such pei-sons

will

received your favour by Mr. Treat, and cannot but consider the officer of Mr. Franklin's guard extremely

cumstance that the term of inlistment of these three companies, and of the Rifle battalion, should expire at this time, when a hot campaign is, in all probability, about to com-

blameable for his conduct. It is certainly his indispensable duty to conduct Mr. Franklin to the place the Convention have ordered without delay. The circumstances you represent, his letter to his lady, and the whole complexion of the case, afford a strong presumption, nay, much more, full evidence, that he means to escape, if possible. He says in

mence. Canada, it is certain, would have been an important acquisition, and well worth the expenses incurred in the purBut as we could not reduce it to our possession, suit of it. the retreat of our .Army with so little loss, under such a variety of distresses, must be esteemed a most fortunate event.

New-York, June

Sir:

30, 1776.

I

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1143 It is true,

we have received do not fully authorwe have sustained no loss, but they hold I am anxious ground for such conclusion.

the accounts

ize us to say that forth a probable

to hear

it

be ably and well disposed of, but I fear the fortunate event has not taken place. In General fVard's letter was enclosed one from Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell, who was made prisoner with the Highland troops. I have transmitted you a copy. This will give you a full and exact account of the number of prisoners that

were on board the four

and

transports,

will

settle the matter, that

no additional proofs

were necessary. When I had the honour of addressing you yesterday,

had

1

only been informed of the arrival of forty-five of the fleet in since that I have received authentick intelthe morning ;



among them from General Greene that one hundred and ten sail came in before night that were counted, and that more were seen about dusk in I have no doubt but the whole that sailed from the offing. Halifax are now at the Hook. Just as I was about to conclude my letter, I received one from a gendeman upon the subject of calling the five regiments from Boston to the defence of Canada or New-York, I have sent you a and to have Militia raised in their lieu. copy, and shall only observe that I know the author well his He is a member of the handwriting is quite familiar to me. General Court, very sensible, of great influence, and a warm and zealous friend to the cause oC America. The expedient proposed by him is submitted to Congress. 1 have the honour to be, with sentiments of the highest esteem, sir, your most obedient servant,

ligence from sundry persons



1144

;

in

I may say it, I am astonished at the policy of Congress ordering more regiments here, instead of ordering those

w hich are here to parts where they But my opinion is little worth

ed.

given

it

:

it

may

am, may

I

it

are infinitely

but such as

;

more need1 have

it is,

serve as a suggestion. please your Excellency, yours sincerely.

GENERAL ORDERS. Head-Quarters, New-York, June 15, 1776.

(Parole, Gibraltar.)

(Countersign, Halifax.)

prove, beyond

a possibility of doubt, that the evacuation oi Boston by the British troops was a matter neither known nor expected when he received his orders. Indeed, so many facts had

concurred before to

1776.

for Canada or New- York than the Militia. They are officered and well armed the Militia to be officered, armed, and equipped. The differences are too many to be enumerated.

If

confirmed.

have the honour of transmitting you an extract of a If thesciieme letter received last night from General Hard. the privateers had in view and the measures he had planned, have been carried into execution, the Highland corps will I

JUNE,

&c.,

;

George Washington.

Head-Quarters, New-York, June 16, 1776. (Parole, Hanorer.)

(rountersign, Ireland.)

The

Continental Congress iiave been pleased to the following Resolution

come

to



" In Congress, June 10, 1776. Resolved, That the pay of the Continental Troops in the Middle Department be henceforth the same as that of the Troops in the Eastern Department." The General, therefore, directs that when the pay abstracts for any of the corps of the Middle Department are made out, the Colonels, or

Commanding

Officers thereof, will take

care that the pay of the men, from the 10th of June, be the

same

as those of the Eastern Regiments.

The

Brigadiers are to make themselves well acquainted with the nature and situation of the grounds on the North and East Rivers, for some considerable distance about the city, with the best approaches to them, that they may know

how

occupy these grounds to the best advantage if ocand they are to cause the same to be done by their respective officers in turn. Great and crying complaints being made against the Armourers, not only for their idleness but the deceitful manner in which their work is executed, the General does, in explicit terms, assure them, that if any further complaint of either should be exhibited, he will punish them in a most exemplary manner of this the superintendant of that branch of business is desired to make them fully acquainted. Lieutenant Walker, of Colonel Nixon's Regiment, tried at the General Court-Martial, whereof Colonef Porso/w is President, on a charge exhibited against him by Captain Butler, of said regiment, for " maliciously and falsely accusing him of high crimes and misdemeanours, and, in conto

casion should require

;

;

Extract of a

Sir

I

:

letter

have

from General Ward, dated Boston, June 23, 1776.

just received information from several priva-

under convoy of a frigate, and supposed to be part of the privateers are all ordered out, and I have

teers that eleven sail of transports,

are in the

Bay, standing

in,

The Scotch fleet. taken measures to secure the transports come

into

in

case they should

Nantasket Road. Watertown, June 21, 1776.

General Washington: The most important matters are Unhappy it is for the Massoon to be decided by arms. whole continent, that at this and numerous Assembly. More Their dethan one-half of the House are new members. cisions are most afBictingly slow, when everything calls for The Lord have mercy on the utmost ard6ur and despatch. This Colony, 1 imagine, will raise the men required by us falls, but in no season for the relief of before snow Congress Pray, sir, consider what there either New- York or Canada.

sachtisetts,

season

and

for the

I fear

we have

a large

sequence of which, procuring him, the said Captain Butler, to be arrested and tried at a late General Court-Martial, by which he was honourably acquitted ;" the Court, after mature consideration, are of opinion that Lieutenant Walker had suflicient grounds for exhibiting a complaint against Captain Butler, and that he is not guilty of maliciously and falsely accusing Captain Butler, and therefore do acquit the prisoner of the charge against him. The General approves of the above sentence passed against Lieutenant Walker, and orders him released from his arrest.

Bowers Laybourn and Thomas Perry, both of Captain

!

is

be done.

to

three weeks.

this

my

It is

company move

single

Excellency

I

will not

clear opinion that there will not a

Colony know, sir, it

in this

be alone

for either

will

of those places

vex you, but your

in the vexation.

My

soul at

ready to die within me at the delays at others, my But what blood to press out of the pores of my body. I never was good at them, but shall be the expedients? will venture to propose again the same I mentioned in my namely, that some or all of the five Continental Relast times

is

;

:

giments here be ordered to march, without one moment's delay to Canada or Nciv- York, as the exigencies may require. In such case they must be paid up their arrears, or nearly. In that way you will, in effect, get succours for Nciv-York Our people are so or Canada, or both, from this Colony. ,

jealous of their

judge them

own

safety (though

you know,

sir,

that I

danger) that they will defence. I beg your Excel-

at present in very little

raise the Militia for their

own

Our own Militia lency to advert to the proposal a moment. are as good for all the intents answered, or to be answered here, by these regiments, as they are. They are much better

fVyck's Company and Colonel McDougalV s Regiment, tried at the above Court-Martial for " desertion," are found guilty, and sentenced severally to be whipped thirtynine lashes each, on his bare back, for their respective of-

Van

fences.

Henry Davis, of Captain Johnson's Company, Colonel McDougaU's Regiment, tried at the above Court-I\lartial, for " desertion,"

to

be whipped

is

found guilty of the same, and sentenced on his bare back for said of-

thirty lashes

fence.

The

General approves of the above sentences, and orders

the corporal punishment to be executed at the usual time

and place. Lieutenant Elijah Oakley, of Captain Stenrod's Comin Colonel McDougaU's Regiment, tried at the General Court-Martial whereof Colonel Niton was President, for "assaulting and beating, without provocation, one Miss The Patterson, an inhabitant of the City of ^^ew-York." Court are of opinion that Lieutenant Oakley is guilty of the charge brought against him, and that he has behaved un-

pany,

worthy the character of a gentleman and officer and the Court adjudge that he (Lieutenant Oakley) be cashiered for ;

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1145

and fmther order, that twenty dollars bo stopped out of the prisoner's (Lieutenant Oalckij) pay, (if so much be due to iiiui,) and be paid, by way of damage, to Miss Patterson. The General approves of the sentence of the Court, and orders that the late Lieutenant Oakley do immediately desaid offence

;

&ic.,

JUNE,

Lieutenant Chapman, of Captain Hales Company and Colonel Webb's Regiment, tried at the General Court-Mar" disobedience tial whereof Colonel f arsons is President, for The Court are of of orders and refusing to do his duty." opinion that the charge soner, Lieutenant

is

fully

supported against the prithat he be dismiss-

Chapman, and adjudge

ed the Continental Army for said offence. The General approves of the sentence of the Court-Martial against Lieutenant Chapman, and orders that he be dismissed the service, and depart the camp.

odier tools are not wanti.d, or not to be had

in the store, the Quartcrmastcr-GeniMul shall n-ceive the defective ttx>ls and discharge the Engineer of so many tools as they do receive.

Hcad-QuartcrB, New-York, June 19, 1776. (l-ounleriign,

17, 1776.

working party, consisting of nine hundred men, properly officered, to jiarade to-morrow trjorning at six o'cl

Uharles Lee.

Colonel Moultrie.

;

must request that your garrison may be kept and that Colonel Thompson and his corps do not relax, for it is almost proverbial in war that we are never in so great danger as when success makes us conLet the bridge be finished as soon as possible. fident. P. S.

more

I

vigilant than ever,

JOHN CRADOCK TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Baltimore County, July

Gentlemen of me,

1

:

With

1,

1776.

a grateful sense of your good opinion

beg leave to resign the commission ol firet Major Delight Battalion, since (having attended last

in Soldiers'

^H

^|

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, JULY,

1193

Saturday) the battalion declared that they will be commanded only by odicers recommended by themselves. Be assured that this is the only reason of my resignation, for with pleasure will I execute any further oflice conferred upon me in the service of my country. I am, gentlemen, your obedient, humble servant,

countrymen have been more successful ai s^a j„ driving away all the men-of-war completely out of JSo,Um harbour, and in making prizes of a great number of transports and other vessels.

We

are in daily expectation of an

York, where,

armament before New-

the Council of Safety of the Province of Maryland.

THOMAS GIST TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY.

remember, that a free Constitution of civil Government cannot be purchased at too dear a rate, as there is nothing on this side the New-Jerusalem of equal importance to man-

Gentlemen According to orders :

from Brigadier-General

I

;

tended,

when some of the men

laid

down their arms,

if it

;

have endeavoured to get the account of the effective arms in Soldiers' Delight Battalion, but could not obtain any but from three companies, which you will find enclosed and I believe there is not above forty in the other companies fit for service. Saturday last being field-day of the said battalion, I at-

Buchanan,

declaring

they would not do duty under any other Field Officers but what they had recommended to the last Convention. I being loath to blow the spark into a flame of contention, and for the sake of peace and unity, beg leave to resign ; and am

your Honours' most obedient servant,

Thomas Gist.

To

1194.

My

comes, the conflict must be bloody. The object is great which we have in view, and we must expect a great expense of blood to obtain it but we should always

John Cradock.

To

1770.

the Honourable the Council of Safety.

kind. It is a cruel reflection, that a little more wisdom, a little activity, or a little more integrity, would have preserved us Canada, and enabled us to support this trying

more

expense of men and money; but irretrievable miscarriages ought to be lamented no further than to

conflict at a less

enable and stimulate us to do better

Your

in future.

Hall and Gwinnett, are here, in good health and spirits, and as firm as you yourself could wish them. Present my compliments to Mr. Houston; tell him the Colonies will have Republicks for their Governments, let us lawyers, and your divine, [Zubly] say what we will. I have the Honour to be, with great esteem and respect, sir, your sincere friend and most humble servant, John Adams.

To

colleagues.

His Excellency Archibald Bullock, Esq., of Georgia.

PRESIDENT OF CONGKESS TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, July

1,

have the Honour

to be,

humble servant, very ' His

sir,

your most obedient and -j

,

t> ^ John tj Hancock, r resident. Excellency General Washington, New- Yorlc.

JOHN ADAMS TO AHCHIBALD BULLOCK. Philadelphia, July

,

Dear May 1st.

Sir:

Two

days ago

I

1,

1776.

received your favour of

I was greatly disappointed, sir, in the information you gave me, that you should be prevented from revisiting Philadelphia. I had flattered myself with hopes of your joining us soon, and not only affording us the additional strength of your abilities and fortitude, but enjoying the satisfaction of seeing a temper and conduct here somewhat more agreeable to your wishes than those which prevailed when you were here before but 1 have since been informed that your countrymen have done themselves the justice to place you at the head of their affairs, a station in which you may perhaps render more essential service to them and to America than you could here. There seems to have been a great change in the sentiments of the Colonies since you left us, and I hope that a few months will bring us all to the same way of thinking. This morning is assigned for the greatest debate of all. A Declaration, that these Colonies are free and independent States, has been reported by a Committee, appointed some weeks ago for that purpose, and this day or to-morrow is to determine its fate. May Heaven prosper the new-born Republick, and make it more glorious than any former Republicks have been The small-pox has ruined the American Army in Canada, and of consequence the American cause. A series of disasters has happened there, partly owing, I fear, to the indecision at Philadelphia, and partly to the mistakes or miscon;

1

duct of our officers in that department ; but the small-pox, which infected every man we sent there, completed our ruin,

and compelled us to evacuate that important Province. must, however, regain it some time or other.

We

1,

1776.

Dear me much

Sir: Your favour by the post this morning gave pleasure, but the generous and unanimous vote of your Convention gave me much more. It was brought into Congress this morning just as we were entering on the great debate that debate took up most of the day, but it was an idle mispense of time, for nothing was said but what had been repeated and hackneyed in that room before a hundred ;

times for six months past.

In the Committee of the Whole, the question was carried and reported to the House. Colony

A

in the affirmative,

to-morrow, when it will pass by a great majority, perhaps with almost unanimity; yet I cannot promise this, because one or two gentlemen may possibly be found who will vote point blank against the desired

Jfiebert's desire.

To

Philadelphia, July

will

;

I

JOHN ADAMS TO SAMUEL CHASE.

1776.

be delivered to you by Monsieur Antoine Felis fViebert, a French gentleman, who brings such ample recommenda'ion of his skill as an engineer, that the Congress are desirous of having him placed in a situation where he may have it in his power to show it and indeed this is all he requests himself, being very willing, after his abilities shall be put to the trial, that his future character and promotion in the American Army should depend on the proofs he may give of his capacity and qualifications. I am, therefore, to request you will employ him in such way as you shall judge will best conduce to the good of the service and answer Mr.

Sir: This

it

to

known and

be postponed

until

declared sense of their constituents.

Maryland,

however, I have the pleasure to inform you, behaved weli Paca, generously and nobly. Alas, Canada ! We have found misfortune and disgrace in that quarter evacuated at last. Transports arrived at Sandy-Hook, from whence we may expect an attack in a short time upon New- York, ov New-Jersey, and our Army



not so strong as

we

could wish.

and New-England not so ready

The Romans made

it

The

Militia of

New-Jersey

as they ought to be.

a fixed rule never to send or receive

Ambassadors to treat of peace with their enemies, while were in an adverse or disastrous situation. There was a generosity and magnanimity in this becoming freemen. It flowed from that temper and those principles which their affairs

alone can preserve the freedom of a people.

same temper.

It is

a plea-

a good symptom, foreboding a good end. If you imagine that I expect this Declaration will ward A off calamities from this country, you are mistaken. bloody conflict we are destined to endure. This has beea my opinion from the beginning. You will certainly rememsure to find our Americans of the

It is

my decided opinion was, at the first Congress, when we found that we could not agree upon an immediate nonexportation, that the contest could not be settled without bloodshed, and that if hostilities should once commence, they would terminate in an incurable animosity between Every political event since the 19th of the two countries. ber

April, 1775, has confirmed me in this opinion. If you imagine that I flatter myself with happiness and halcyon days, after a separation from Great Britain, you I do not expect that our new Governare mistaken again. nor that happy harwill be so quiet as I could wish mony, confidence, and affection, between the Colonies, that every good American ought to study, labour, and pray for,

ments

;

but freedom is a counterbalance for poverty, and war, and more. It is your hard lot and mine

for a long time

discord,

;

/ CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1195

be called into life at such a lime have their pleasures. I am your friend and servant,

to

To

;

yet even these times

John Adams.

Mr. Chase, Annapolis.

JULY,

&ic.,

1776.

1196

James Boyley, John McDowel, John Shaw, Matthew Boyd, and John Beaton. First Lieutenants: WilliamHenry Andrew Dumvooddy, Thomas Kenney, Benjamin Culbinson, Samuel Lindscy, Allen Cunningham, Joseph Strawbrido-e, and Joseph Bartholomew. Second Lieutenants Robert Filson, William Lockurt, Thomas Davis, Sa/7iuel Hammel. Jeremiah Cloud, Joseph Wherrcy, David Curry, and Alexander McCaraghcr. Ensigns: John Grardtrensher, William Cunningham, John Filling, Andrew Curry. Thomas James, Lazarus Finney, Archibald Desart, and JohnLewbinson,

:

JOSIAH BARTLETT TO JOHN LANGDON. Philadelphia, July

I

1,

1776.

Dear Sir: Yours of the 14th ultimo is now before me. am truly sorry that guns, &c., for the ships cannot be got

The Committee but so it happens. purpose have not been able to procure them yet. As to naval affairs, I must refer you to brother JVhipple, who continues of the Marine Committee alias Board of Admiralty, and who will, while here, inform you from as soon

as wanting,

appointed

ellyn.

A

for that

time to time what

to be

is

done

copy from the Minutes

true

Caleb Davis,

PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE OF SAFETY.

your department as agent

in

In Committee of Safety, Philadelphia, ? .luIy 1, 1776. y

NeiD-Hampshire.

for

am

Colony have determined to keep up the Provincial Regiment at Portsmouth in the pay of the besides The design ot Colony, the Continental Regiment. raising that regiment was to ease our Colony of that expense, and 1 expected they would have been immediately put on the Continental establishment, and our Colony eased of the I

sorry to hear our

burden. The cost of maintaining Colonel Gilman's Regiment, with the bounty given to the men going to Canada, with our other expenses, will be very great, and where we can save cost, consistent with the publick safety, we ought to do it. In short, in my opinion it will be no advantage to us, for when it is known that our harbour is defended by

our

own

forces,

it

is

very probable the Continental Regi-

The Committee, of Congress

opinion that the publick service requires that into execution witliout

The

affair

;

hope it will not be spoiled by canvassing in Congress. General Lee, by express, informs us that fifty-three ships, with General Clinton, were before Charlestoim, South- CaGeneral Washington, by express this day, informs rolina. us that General Howe, with near one hundred sail, were at

Sandy- Hook ; this

so that

soon expect serious work.

reaches you, you will hear that General Sul-

livan has evacuated 1

we may

Canada, and

expect soon

to

hear he

is is

at present at Isle-auxat

Crown Point.

The

hand when we shall see whether America has virtue enough to be free or not. Sir, you will excuse the erasements and many other defects in this scrawl, as I have not time to copy or correct it. I am, sir, your friend, &.C., JOSIAH BaRTLETT. To Captain Langdon.

time

is

now

at

P. S. The transport, with Highlandei's, that was taken by the Cabot, and afterward retaken, is taken a second time by Captain Ban-on, and carried into Jametown, Virginia. She had two hundred and twelve soldiers on board, being the whole of the soldiers in two transports taken by the Ca-

The

hot.

and was

other transport contained the oflicers of both, retaken by the Cerberus man-of-war, and afterward

taken again by the Schuyler and Montgomery, and carried into New- York.

CHESTER COUNTY (PENNSYLVANIA) COMMITTEE. In Committee, Downingstown, Chester County, 5 .luly 1, 1776. 5

Present

fifty

Members.

motion. Resolved,

utmost endeavours

That

to put in

this

New- York, Sir:

Committee use

their

ference for raising six hundred and fifty-two

Men

am happy

and

vessels, in

to

July

1,

1776.

your favours of the 20th and 2.3d ultimo, hear of the further success of our armed

the capture of the transport with the Highland If they have been fortunate enougii to take

Grenadiers.

the eleven ships mentioned in your

last, I

suppose

we

are

possession of a large share of the Highlanders ordered

in

am

extremely sorry

your indisposition, and power, and that the It is particularly unlucky situation of things will admit of. that Mr. Ji^iitcomb should refuse his commission at this crisis. A fleet has arrived at the Hook, which we suppose to be General Howe's, having received authentick intelligence of his sailing from Halifax on the 9th ultimo with one hundred and thirty-two sail. One hundred and ten came in on Saturday ; more were in the offing and a few had got in two or three days before. We expect he will make an attack as soon as possible and I am making every As we are extremely deficient preparation to receive him. in arms here, and in great distress for want of them, I shall be glad if you will send off those taken from the HighlandLet them ers, which you conceive can possibly be spared. be sent immediately to Norwich, to the persons there who were intrusted with the others, with directions to forward them without delay, by water, if there shall be no risk if You will observe that the new regiments there is, by land. against us. wisli

I

to afford

you

all

for

my

the relief in

;

;

;

be raised

to

in the

Massachusetts are to furnish their

own

before they are received, or can be taken into pay. 1

George Washington.

am, Stc, Major-General JVard.

P. S. It is not in my power to send a General Officer now. I have but one Major-General, and not Brigadiers more than are absolutely necessary, nor so many. I have heard nothing more of the other three hundred carbines they are not yet arrived.

forthwith

County; and that the following gentlemen be appointThomas ed Oflicers, viz JVilliam Montgomery, Colonel Bull, Lieutenant-Colonel, and John Bartholomew, Rlajor. Captains Joseph Gardner, Benjamin Wallace, Samuel Cul:

I received

execution the Resolve of Con-

in this

:

be.

WiLLiASi GovETT, Secretary.

To

On

may

GENERAL WASHINGTON TO GENERAL WARD.

I

and

under the above descriptions,

send in their applications as early as Extract from the Minutes

;

JSoix,

fall

to enter into the service, are requested to

among

a Committee of the whole House by next post I expect you will receive a formal Declaration, with the reasons. The Declaration before Congress is, I think, a pretty good one.

Before

gendemen who

All such

of Independency has been this day determined

in

service

Companies.

and are desirous

five

be carried

;

have the highest opinion of Dr. Brackett, but think he would not accept of the appointment of Surgeon to the Continental Regiment, especially as it may possibly be ordered to some distant place, and I fear he would take it as an affront to offer it to him. New-Jersey have appointed a new set of Delegates, consisting of them is Dr. Witherspoon.

it

any delay, and the Recruiting

be entered on as soon as possible: Resolved, That this Board will, on Friday, the 5th instant, appoint Captains, and on Friday, the 12th instant. Lieutenants and Ensigns, for the four Companies of Germans directed to be raised in this Province by order of Congress and that it is the opinion of this Board that, consistent with the Resolve of Congress, no person but such as are Germans born, or the sons of Germans, should hold any office in said

I

taking into consideration the Resolution German Battalion], and beinc of

[for raising a

ment may be ordered somewhere else, which would not be the case if they were wanted, as was expected, for the Colony's defence.

Secretary.

;

COLONEL REED TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS. Head-Quarters,

New- York, July

1,

1776.

Sir: The General being informed that the Provincial Congress of New- York have collected a quantity of lead in

a

f|

'

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1197

would be pleased to Mr. Commissary Checver have all that can be spared, it is one of those articles of which the Army stands at

as

present in the greatest need. I

have the honour

to be,

sir,

your most obedient, humble

1198

In Committee,

Queens County, July

1,

1V7G.

The Committee

took into consideration a Resolve of the Convention of the honourable the Provincial Congress relating to the removing the Cattle from the south side of this

and as many difficulties and impossibilities doth ; appear, this Committee hath appointed Colonel Jeromus Remsen, Colonel Joscjjh lloherson, and Samuel Riker, to make a representation thereof to the honourable the Provin-

County

servant,

Joseph Reed, Adjutant-General.

To

1776.

QUEENS county (nEW-YORk) COMMITTEE.

divers parts of the city, requests they let

JULY,

fee,

the Hon. the President of the Provincial Congress.

Congress and General Officers of the Continental Army and that they make a representation of the defenceless state of this County, and request such a force as shall be able, with the assistance of the County Militia, to prevent our being plundered by the Ministerial troops and also apply for two hundred Pounds for the use of this County. A true copy from the Minutes. Attest Benjamin Sands. cial

JAJIES

COGGESHALL TO THE COMMITTEE OF NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

New

Gentlemen

Jail,

July

1,

1776.

am

informed you are appointed to act during the recess of the Congress respecting the prisoners con6ned in Jail. I take the liberty to beg your assistance in relieving me as far as possible from my situation, truly necessary on account of my ill state of health, which I dare say you can be made fully sensible of if you will do me the I am conscious of no particular charge favour to visit me. :

I

me and I am willing to you shall deem necessary. I am so much unwell that I look upon the continuance of my confinement the absolute destruction of my life, which I think your humanity would by no means suffer if in your power to prevent. I must just mention one circumstance, that, so sure was I of being immediately released I came from the country without a second shirt, or strip of any one thing which I would wish to have in my power to obtain, as you must be sensible how necessary cleanliness is to As soon as I can be the health, especially of an invalid. indulged with your favour, the greatest obligation will be conferred on, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humthat

is

or can be brought against

comply with any

;

THEOPHYLACT BACHE TO PHILIP LIVINGSTON.

;

j^^^ Coogeshall.

Brasher, Broome, and Bancker, Committee of the Honourable Provincial Congress, New- York.

Flatbush.JuIy

Messi-s.

Gentlemen

the

Honourable the Speaker and Members of vincial Congress q/" New-York

the

Pro-

by the honourable Speaker of this House, on the 14th day June last, (which I do not doubt but part of the members of this House are sensible of,) which I undertook to trace the matter I had some idea of, and on which, whether I I

took

it

for granted, after a final

covery, that liberty was depending

dis-

however, with the help of Divine Providence, I succeeded in the undertaking, though not expecting to be called as a publick evidence, there to declare what I gathered from a person's own :

mouth, by laying schemes, and using arguments to get it from him, which was a considerable shock of conscience, though it being in the glorious cause of America, which Though I have gives satisfaction on the next thought. but I a fear I am detained to be brought in as evidence must refuse if so called, as I think it hard usage, as I have all the America, myself liable to enemies of I have laid as a double chance whether we are overcome or not, as we have a large party of these kind of friends in the country, and not far from my habitation, as I am very sensible of my adversaries, by reason of our friendship being broken six or eight months ago on account of the contest. Your humble Petitioner sincerely begs you would consider his circumstances, as he hath faithfully accomplished and discharged the trust reposed in him, as 1 hope it will appear to every member of this honourable House, as your humble petitioner ever stands in duty bound to obey every resolve of this honourable House, and to the protection of the Continental Army. Your Petitioner humbly begs that justice may be shown him in regard to a small sum of money and some papers taken by Captain Wool, as I hope it will appear right and equitable in the sight of every member of this House that your humble Petitioner should have his property returned, and discharged from confinement. And your Petitioner ever is in duty bound to serve. God bless the Congress in all their lawful enterprises. Isaac Ketchum. ;

July

1,

1776.

1776.

sufficient

require

I

:

apology

all

my

for

my

remaining with them, as they will them from the horrible cala-

attention to save

mities of the approaching conflict.

My

being represented to the Congress as one of the perfills me with the deepest concern. Be assured, gentlemen, that the accusation is unmerited, and must have proceeded from those who are unacquainted with my sentiments. I have not, since the unhappy dispute began, contravened any order of the sons inimical to the cause and rights of America

Congress, Continental or Provincial, nor

hope

I sincerely

may

is it

my

intention.

once happy and am, gentle-

for a reconciliation, that this

enjoy the blessing of peace

;

men, your most obedient, humble servant,

Theophylact Bache.

:

The Petition of Isaac Ketchum humbly bcggeth the consideration of this honourable House, In regard to a proposal made to your humble Petitioner

succeeded or not,

1,

would have waited upon you this day, pursuant to your citation received on Friday last, but the distressed state of Mrs. Bache and my numerous family, since the arrival of the fleet at Sandy-Hook, will, I hope, be a

country

To

;

restrictions

b'« servant,

To

relating to that matter

To P. To

Livingston, Esq., and gentlemen of the Congress.

the

Honourable the Representatives of the City and

o/" New-York, in Congress assembled: Gentlemen We, the subscribers, being united friends

Province

:

American

liberty, considering

our defenceless

state, in

to

case

made by our enemies upon this Province, and likewise our being surrounded with numbers and of Tories who are daily meditating our destruction having two large storehouses contiguous to the North River, in which are great quantities of provisions, which, we apprehend, in case they should get past the city with their tenders, they may run up and supply themselves at pleasure out of these storehouses, which miglit prove very dangerous

there should be an attack

;

common cause of this country for which reason we conceive it to be highly necessary that you would be pleased to supply us with two field-pieces, with everything necessary for an attack under your directions, for our defence, in order to assist the Militia of this Manor, for which purpose to the

;

we mean to form ourselves into a Company of Artillery, on our own expense, you giving us the liberty of choosing our own officers. We understand there are some field-pieces at the

upper

fort, in

Your compliance

the Highlands,

will greatly oblige,

which can be spared. gentlemen, your Peti-

tioners, &tc. Cortlandt's Manor, July, 1776.

To

the

Jesse Lockwood,

Thomas

James Spock, Benjamin Taylor, John Hall, Koger Bissell, William Pennoyer, John Brewer,

Caleb Hall,

Molt, 3d.,

Staats Degroot, Luther Kinnicut,

Francis Pemart, Peter Garson, David Poineer,

Abraliam Stoolhoif.

John Sheerman, Justus Wescott, Samuel Haviland, Peter Buys, Samuel Williams, John McCune.

Honourable Members of the Provincial Congress of

New-York

:

of the Inhabitaiiis o/Cherry- Valley, New-Town, Martin, and Springfield, in the County

The humble

Petition

oyTRYON, humbly showcth: That we, the

aforesaid inhabitants, from the

most authen-

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1199 tick intelligence

and Indian

we have

from our missionaries

received

friends, learn that

we

are in imminent danger of

being cut off by the savages, our enemies,

by

stand, are bribed

Sir

to execute the same.

whom, we under-

John Johnson and Colonel Butler

Know

also,

honourable gentlemen,

that the spirit of our inhabitants hath been such for the

Ame-

rican cause, that out of the small and scattered bounds of

Cherry- Valley, ]\cw-Town, and Martin, no less than thirtythree have turned out for immediate service and good of their country, and thereby left us in a defenceless condition. We, therefore, your humble petitionei-s, humbly pray you would forthwith take this, our deplorable and distressed state and condition, under your immediate consideration, and meditate some speedy relief for us before it be too late, especially as the inhabitants of

Old England

District

and Unadilla are

we

shall immediately,

daily flying to our settlement, so that in

all

appearances, become an open, defenceless, and unliontier, and very much exposed to the insults of

guarded

the enemy, especially scalping parties, and are at present without ammunition or men any way sufficient to defend ourselves ; and unless you, gentlemen, that can help us, will

help us, by sending ammunition to the inhabitants, and a number of men, such as you may think proper to

sufficient

guard our frontiers, we must expect to fall victims to the rage and fury of our merciless enemies, and therefore must once more beg you may take this, our deplorable circumstances, under your consideration, and send us immediate relief. And your Petitioners shall ever pray.

Samuel Dunlop, A. M. and E. D. M. Samuel Campbell, Major. James Scott,

Robert Wells, James Rickey, James Moore, Samuel Clyde, Captain. Signed

in the

name, and by order

of,

the above inhabi-

tants.

&c.,

JULY,

1776.

1200

must be subordinate to Mr. Livingston, and obey his orders, which he chose not to do, and is now going down. I advised him to remain until the aflair was determined, and candidly told him that I should try to keep Mr. Livingston in the employment if he chose it, because, admitting that their abilities and integrity were perfectly equal, Mr. Livingston's conduct had met my approbation, and that his great family connexions in this County had enabled him to carry on the service when others could not have done it, of which I 'gave instances. General Gates was present, and acquiesced

in

the

propriety of wliat 1 observed.

I was, informed that he should tell Mr. Avery that he had nothing to say here, but that as soon as he came to the Army he would employ him. I say I was greatly surprised, because General Gates knew that that Army was no longer in Canada, and because I did not know that he then claimed a right to control my orders with respect to the Army, even if it should be at Crown Point, nor could I imagine he thought so, as your Excellency's instruc-

therefore, greatly surprised to be

tions to

Your

him gave,

last letter to

as I conceive, not the least colour for

me

it.

holds up a contrary idea, and so does

every resolution of Congress hitherto transmitted to me but that General Gates conceived, and still does, that the Army is immediately under his command, I had a very few hours after the most convincing proof of, as your Excellency will observe from the enclosed paper, which 1 hastily drew up ;

immediately after the discourse, and which 1 desired General Gates to read, that no misundei-standing might arise for want of recollecting what had been said, and which he acknowledges contains the substance of what passed between us. By your Excellency's instructions to General Gates, he is empowered to appoint a Quartermaster-General in Canada. I observed this morning that I believed it was founded on a supposition that Colonel Campbell was then about quitting Canada, for that I could not imagine that an officer being " ordered to Congress to settle his accounts" deprived him of his employments that Colonel Campbell was originally appointed to this department, and that Canada now being made a separate one, and the command of it given to General Gates, he could, under the powers he had, appoint whom he pleased to act there, but that, unfortunately for us, the evacuation of that country by our troops had taken place, and that I must and should consider Colonel Campbell as the Deputy Quartermaster-General on this side of Cmiada. If Congress intended that General Gates should command the Northern Army, wherever it may be, as he assures me they did, it ought to have been signified to me, and I should then have immediately resigned the command to him but until such intention is properly conveyed to me I never can. I must, therefore, entreat your Excellency to lay this letter before Congress, that they may clearly and explicitly signify their intentions, to avert the dangers and evils that may arise from a disputed command for after what General Gates has said, the line must be clearly drawn, as I shall until then stand upon punctilios with General Gates that I would otherbut that the service may not be wise with pleasure waive retarded, nor suflfer the least from a difference of opinion between General Gates and me, I have determined to remain here, although I had, before this affair came to light, mentioned to him my intentions of going up with him. As both General Gates and myself mean to be candid, and wish to have the matter settled without any of that chicane which would disgrace us as officers and men, we have agreed to speak plain, and to show each other what we have written to you upon the occasion, and he has accordingly read the whole of what I have above said. Since writing the above, General Gates has shown me the resolutions of Congress of the 17th instant, which confirm me in the opinion 1 have entertained, that he was only to ;

Cherry-Valley, July

1,

1776.

general SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Albany, July

1,

1776.

Dear General: On Friday

evening I received a line from General Sullivan, a copy whereof I have the honour By the contents your Excellency will perceive to enclose. that we have reasons to believe his next will announce his arrival at Crown Point. Yesterday morning General Gates introduced a Mr. Avery

me, who applied to me for money to carry on the Commissary-General's Department here. I asked if Mr. Livingston was superseded, and begged to see how he (Avery) was authorized to act here. He showed me a commission from Mr. Trumbull, the Commissary-General, with instructions annexed, appointing him Deputy Commissary in Canada, and the instructions were correspondent to such appointment. I told him his commission did not, by any means, supersede Mr. Livington's, and until that was done, must that I consider Mr. Livingston as the Deputy Commissary-General here, and that all warrants for money to carry on that department here must be drawn in his favour, unless Mr. Trumbull himself was present. He assured me that it was Mr. Trumbull's intentions that he (Avery) should have the sole management, and that Mr. Livingston was only to be considered as a contractor. I sent for Mr. Livingston, who produced a letter of the 25th instant from Mr. Trumbull directly contradictory to what Mr. Avery had asserted upon which he declared that Mr. Trumbull had informed him that Congress had given him full power to make any arrangement he thought proper, and displace whom he pleased, and that it was his intention by giving him (Avery) that commission to supersede Mr. Livingston. To which Mr. Livingston answered that although Mr. Trumbull had no power to remove him unless authorized so to do by Congress, as he held his commission immediately from that body yet if Mr. Trumbull had expressed any such intention, that he would immediately resign, and he would put the question to Mr. Trumbull. 1 observed to Mr. Avery that nothing in his conmiission or the instructions annexed authorized him to say what he did that ftlr. Trumbuirs letter to Mr. Livingston flatly contradicted it that if he remained with the Army, provided it was not in Canada, he to

;

;

;

;

;

;

;

the Anny in Canada, and that I had no control upon him when there. Your Excellency may be assured of my best exertions

command

enemy from penetrating into these Colonies. General Gates is in sentiment with me on the mode that of increasing our naval strength and fortifying some advantageous spot on the east side of Lake Champlain, either opposite to Ticonderoga or between that and Crown Point. Part of die Militia from this Colony is marched up none of the others are yet moved. Their tardiness will greatly distress us, as we have much, very much, to do, and few men to do it with. to prevent the

— ;

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1201

by Colonel Knox anived yesterday The and althoiicrli tlie Indians have deferred the treaty to the middle of this month, yet I have thought it advisable to take post at Fort Stanwix, and all the stores are moving from here to-day, and will, I hope, leave Schenectady on WedThe Commissioners of Indian AlFairs nesday morning. have prepared a message to the Six Nations, giving the This will, reasons why we take post at Fort Stanwix. however, not be sent until everything is so far advanced that there may be no danger in communicating to them my in-

this

I

mand

cutlasses, stinkpots,

may

be sent

also

be under the neces-

and hand-grenades can be for the use

got,

of our armed ves-

sels.

One hundred

thousand of the dollars brought up by GeArmy better than half of the other are already expended, nor will any be left in two neral Gates are ordered to the

;

or three days.

Mr. Duane informed me, and gave me leave

to

make

use

of his name, that the five hundred thousand voted by Congress the 2:2d of May for this department, were actually charged, and he feai-s that they accident on the way up. I

have ordered the

silver to

may have met

with some

be kept in chests, except about we borrowed here, and must



I am this moment favoured with of the 27th ultimo, enclosing copy of a resolution of Congress of the 24th. I have immediately an opportunity of forwarding copies thereof to Gover-

o'clock,

P. M.

your Excellency's

;

that will give the least offence.

wish Colonel Francis and Colonel fVolcott were immeup to attend the conference at the German Flats on the 15th instant, as I propose going to Crown Point to-morrow, having, upon further consultation with General Gates and General Arnold since writing the foregoing, determined upon it and this journey may detain me so long as to prevent my attendance, in which case there will be only two Commissioners present. 1 am, dear General, most respectfully, your obedient humI

diately ordered

;

ble servant,'

To

three miles from this point, and there So if garrisons were at these places,

pass, either

I

believe

me

to be,

with

much

respect and

John Sullivan.

To

the

Hon. Major-General Schuyler.

letter

nour Trumbull and Mr. Edwards ; the latter has already received one month's advance wages for the Stockbridge Company, and which, I suppose, is by this time paid to them, as he informed me that they were to be here on IVednesday or Thursday next. I am afraid it will give great umbrage if they are immediately discharged but as the order is positive, I dare not presume to defer complying with it. I shall, however, request Mr. Edwards to do it in a

manner

is

esteem, your most obedient servant,

be repaid.

Four

enemy might

Dear General,

three thousand pounds, which

now

latter

wider.

by water or land, without rehad four boats in com])any with me on my return, two of which dropped astern, and the people went on shore. I heard a firing about two or three miles astern, but could not guess what it was. I have since learned that the people were attacked by the Indians, and their batteaus taken. I cannot give full credence to this at present, as I think the firing must have been further off. However, as the batteaus have not yet anived, I have sent a party after them, and shall soon know the truth of this report. This afternoon, before my return, a party of officers and men, who had carelessly ventured to a French house, about half a mile below this Island, without their arms, were attacked by a party of Indians and two Canadians, who killed and took seven officers and four or five privates. We find these fellows have lined our shores to watch our batteaus. I shall take care to guard them well, and am now sending off a strong party of Riflemen to scourge the rascals for their insolence. Colonel Wayne, with a party, followed those who attacked and killed the officers, but could not overtake them. He recovered the batteaus and five dead bodies, scalped and mangled in a shocking manner. I shall give you the particulars as soon as it can be done with certainty. the

proportionate quantity of cartridge-paper, and two tons of

beg they

is still

garding them.

of calling forth the Militia nearest to us, we shall be I wish, therefore, to have at a loss for ball and buckshot. twenty-five rounds apiece for ten thousand men sent up the if it can anywhere be procured, with a soonest possible,

oakum. If any

The

it.

the river

sity

I

1202

step must be taken, or the

the

tentions.

we

1776.

Army will be lost, not by enemy, but by sickness. have this day viewed Windmill Point and Point-attFer, and think that garrisons at either or both those places would be useless, the former being a low sunken piece of ground, and the river so wide that cannon cannot com-

cannon sent

Should the enemy advance, and

JULY,

&ic.,

Ph. c ochutleh. -r,

His Excellency General Washington.

Albany, June 30, 1776.

In a conversation with General Gates, in the presence of Walter Livingston, Esq., General Gates observed that Sir.

Lewis had intimated

to him, as what he had from Colonel Trumbull, that he might as well return to New- York, as General Gates could not provide for him agreeable to expectation, because the Army having quitted Canada, it was now under the command of General Schuyler. General Gates

declared that Colonel Campbell being ordered to Congress to he should appoint Mr. Lewis as Deputy

settle his accounts,

Quartermaster-General. General Schuyler answered, that Colonel Camphell quitted the department, he should willingly appoint any person General Gates thought proper that the Army being now out of Canada, he conceived that it was under his command, and he could suffer no appointment to be made by General Gates. General Gates conupon which General Schuyler observed ceived the contrary that he meant to be clear and explicit on a point of such importance, and declared that he conceived the Army to be altogether under his command zchen on this side of Canada, subject, however, to the control of General Washington that, in his absence. General Gates commanded the Army in the same manner as General Sullivan did now, and only if

;

acknowledged that General Schuyler's binding on him, which he instanced in Gene-

as eldest officer, wlio Isle-aux-Noix, June 24, 1776.

Dear General Before this comes to hand, you will have received mine by General Arnold, acquainting you with our retreat to this place. Your favour of the 17th instant, en:

closing his Excellency's letter, I

to

am much

obliged

for

came

to

hand

this

evening.

the powers you have been pleased

delegate to me, of which

I

shall

make

you mention, provided apprehend they are now under

the persons

a proper use against

their

crime turns out as

and 1 trust the result will be known to-morrow. This cowardly affair, together with the want of discipline, and that infernal disorder the small-pox, has ruined our Army. Believe me, dear General, that when I ordered the sick people from hence to Crown Point, many regiments were obliged to apply for men to be drafted from other regiments to row them away, they not having well men enough for that purpose. Those that remain here, owing to their fatigue and want of fresh I

;

trial,

provisions, are daily dropping off, like the Israelites before the

destroying angel.

The

officers, to a

the

Army.

Fourth

I

man, are daily

calling

Crown Point, to fortify there, and recruit am, for my own part, now convinced that

aloud to go on to

Series.

— Vol.

vi.

commands were

and pointedly observed that if he was with the Army, (which he always would be, when his health or other indispensable publick business did not call him from it,) and ordered it to remove from one place to another, he should expect to be obeyed ; that, u])on any sudden emergency, the officer with, and commanding the Army, had a right to exercise his judgment, and take measures accordingly, for which he was, however, obnoxious to the censure ral Sullivaii's last letter,

commander of the department that if Congress meant that General Gates should command the Army in this department, and would resolve so, that he should most readily acquiesce, but that they could not after that they had certainly that imagine he would remain in it a right to make what arrangements they thought proper that he was a creature of theii-s, and they had a right to move

or praise of the

;

;

him wherever they der the

command

him unnor oblige him to be honour; that he frankly confessed

pleased, but they could not put

of a younger

officer,

a suicide, and stab his own that he General Gates's superior military qualifications would always advise with him and his other brother Gene;

76

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1203 rals

and that

;

if

he were superseded,

it

would give him great

pleasure to be superseded by a gentleman of General Gates

s

character and reputation.

Both General Gates and General Schuyler declared they would lay the matter before Congress, to prevent any evil consequences from a disputed

command

in a critical

moment

they would co-operate, that no evil and that each should write to

that, for the present,

might Congress to determine the matter. General Gates, having read this and General Schuykr's letter to his Excellency General Washington, agreed that the matter was fairly and fully stated, and therefore declined result to the service,

kc, JULY,

1776.

1204

from the different Colonies ordered to levy them. this are nearly all marched. shall take such measures as will have the most probable tendency to prevent the small-pox from infecting these men and we hope to succeed, provided that the men will strictly abide Militia

We

Those from

;

by the orders that will be issued. I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient, humble servant,

To

Philip Schuyler.

the Honourable Meshech Weare, Esq., President of the

Colony of New- Hampshire.

writing.

GENERAL SCHUYLER's RECEIPT FOR SPECIE. 1, 1776, from Benjamin Giles and James Bctton, Esquires, in specie, the sum of one thousand one hundred and forty -seven pounds one shilling, lawful money of New-England, equal to three thousand eight hundred and twenty-three dollars and a half, it being money sent by the Assembly of the Colony of New-Hampshire by said Benjamin Giles and James Betton, Esquires, to be lodged in my hands for the use of the Army of the United American Colonies which sum I am accountable for to this or any future Congress, and for which I have given duplicate receipts of this tenour and date. Philip Schuyler, M. General.

Received, Albany, July

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Albany, July

Dear

1776.

1,

Sir I was yesterday honoured with yours of the 28th, and have detained the express, as I expected some accounts from the northward, but have received none. General Gates, General Arnold, and I, set out to-morrow We suppose we shall meet it at morning for the Army. Crown Point, as General Sullivan, in his last to me, gave reasons to believe that he would immediately remove from :

I am very far, my dear sir, from desponding, although so many untoward circumstances have arisen to the northward, as I do not think the enemy will be able to penetrate into the more inhabited parts of the Colonies, especially if the Militia which is ordered to join us should soon arrive, which 1 sincerely hope they will. I have given a plan to

Isle-aux-Noix.

Committee of

the

this

County

them

to enable

the Militia on the shortest notice, and

Your Colony cannot want Would

adopted.

already properly regulated.

I it, it

to

believe as

draw it

will

be

your Militia is however, be

not,

We



Four o'clock in the afternoon. Just now received a letter from General Washington, enclosing a resolution of ConI am gress, which I do myself the honour to transmit you. apprehensive that the Stockbridge Indians will take umbrage at it, and have desired Mr. Edivards to broach the matter in the least exceptionable terms, so as to give as little offence am, dear sir, with great humble servant.

truth,

dient,

the

SAFETY. Walpole, July

Gentlemen

your Honour's most obe-

Philip Schuyler.

Hon. Jonathan Trumbull, Esq.

Albany, July I

am

common enemy

cate receipts.

honoured with your

letter

the

may field,

1,

I

am

highly probable, not a single fire-lock

exceedingly sorry that the necessity of money seems to be unhappily

with.

By a letter from General Sullivan, of the 24th ultimo, I have reason to believe that our Army is now on its way to Crotvn Point. I leave this to-morrow in order to join it. Every exertion must be made to prevent the enemy from crossing Lake Champlain, and I have a conQdent hope that We shall be able to retard their progress by a superior naval force, which is daily increasing, insomuch that we have already built and equipped two gondolas, and I hope to have two more every .week for a succession of at least five or six

in a

Would,

for use.

way

to procure the

above-mentioned

articles,

more

es-

many who have good and unless we can be some way the enemy be permitted to come

pecially ammunition, for there are

arms but not ammunition we must (should down upon us) quit our possessions and resort to you, which would be very disagreeable to your humble servant, Benj. Bellows, Jun., Col. I6th Regt. Militia, Colony of New-Hampshire. ;

the Honourable

Committee of Safety

Colony of

for the

CAPTAIN HARDING TO GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL. Boston, July

have the expected reinforcQineat of

1,

1776.

now enclose for your Honour's perusal an inventory of as much of the cargoes of the ships Lord Howe, George, and brigantine Annabella, as have come to

Honoured Sir

:

I

Neither of the vessels are yet unloaded and a few other articles in each. brigantine, Annabella, remains on the rocks.

hand.

some

coals

there are

;

The

We

shall I

prize

hope we

be able to get her off in the spring-tides. expected to have received your Honour's orders about

returning to

New-London,

as I believe the prospect of taking

any more prizes is over. There have been ten sail men-ofwar and transports cruising in the bay for some days. We They suppose them to be the last of the Highland fleet. disappeared on Friday noon, having, we suppose, received intelligence of the evacuation of Boston.

Having nothing new for your Honour's detention, your most obedient, humble servant,

I

remain

Seth Harding.

To

weeks. to

fit

therefore, beseech you, if possible, to put the bearers hereof

1776.

I do not superseded by our troops evacuating Canada. mean this, however, as an opinion that no more ought to be unacquainted have views which I am may sent, as Congress

much

ere long be called to face the

or to defend our possessions, our

wives and children, from the cruelty and barbarity of the skulking savages, in order whereto it is absolutely necessary that we should be furnished with arms and ammunition wherefore I take this opportunity to lay before you the state and condition of the regiment which 1 have the honour to command in regard of their military accoutrements, that, if possible, you may furnish us with the necessary means of defence. The number of training soldiers I am not able to Certain ascertain, not having received the proper returns. I am there Is not less than five or six hundred', the half of whom cannot collect one ounce of powder or ball, and, it is

of the 21st ultimo

further supply of hard

We wish

in

1776.

1,

that the inhabitants of

New-Hampshire.

by Benjamin Giles, Esq., who delivered me one thousand one hundred and forty-seven pounds one shilling lawful, equal to three thousand eight hundred and twenty-three dollars and a half in specie, for which I have passed dupliany

Being apprehensive

part of the globe

this

To GENERAL SCHUYLER TO MESHECH WEARE. Sir:

:

equipped,

as possible.

To

COLONEL BELLOWS TO THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE OF

forth

prudent to give a standing order to the Militia to march as soon as they should be certainly informed of an intended attack, without waiting for further orders ? It is a melancholy reflection that there are so many of the eastern people who have not had the small-pox. propose to dispose of all such as not to have any intercourse with that part of the Army now infected with that disorder, unless upon the most pressing occasion, which can only happen if we should be threatened with an immediate attack by the main body of the enemy.

1

;

the Honourable Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., Lebanon, in

Connecticut.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1205

he, JULY,

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM GENERAL LEE TO PRESIDENT OF CONORESS, DATED CHARLESTOWN, JULY 2, 1776.

eighteen

I should have done myself the honour sooner of informing the Congress of the attack made by the enemy's squadron on Sullivan's Island, and their repulse, but conjectured that, by waiting a day or two, I might probably be fiirnished

Bristol, exceedingly

with the means of sending a more minute,

full,

and

satisfac-

tory account.

My

conjecture

was

right

;

for

yesterday five seamen

one of whom is a more intelligent fellow Enthan is commonly found amongst men of his level. I may venture to closed is a copy of their Narrative. congratulate Congress on the event. Not only the advantage must be considerable, but the affair reflects no small

made

their escape,

credit to the

American arms.

On

Friday, about eleven o'clock, the Commodore, (Sir Peter Parker,) with his whole squadron, consisting of two line-of- battle ships and six frigates, the rates of which are marked in the enclosed Narrative, anchored at less than half musket-shot from the fort, and commenced one of the most furious and incessant fires I ever saw or heard. It

was manifestly their plan to land, at the same time, their whole Regulars at the east end of the Island, and of course As the garrison was cominvest the fort by land and sea. posed entirely of raw troops, both officers and men, I thought it my duty to cross over to the Island to encourage the garBut 1 might have saved myself that rison by my presence. trouble, for 1 found, on my arrival, they had no occasion for any sort of encouragement. I found them determined and cool to the last degree their behaviour would, in fact, have done honour to the oldest troops. I therefore beg leave to recommend, in the strongest terms, to the Congress the commanding officer. Colonel Moultrie, and his whole garrison, as brave soldiers and Nor must I omit, at the same time, excellent citizens. mentioning Colonel Thompson, who, with the South- Carolina Rangers and a detachment of the JSorth- Carolina Regulars, repulsed the enemy in two several attempts to make a lodgment at the extremity of the Island. Our loss, considering the heat and duration of the fire, was inconsiderable. We had only ten men killed on the spot, and twenty-two wounded, seven of whom lost their

1776.

1206

water. Eiperiment, of fifty guns on two twelve-pounders, a slighter built vessel than the damaged in her hull several ports beat into one, her mizzenmast hurt, but uncertain of parti-

decks,

feiit

all

;

Killed fifty-seven, of

culars.

wounded

whom

the Captain

was one; Draws, when lightest,

dead.

thirty, several since

feet water. The general opinion is, that neither of these large ships will go safely over the bar again. Solebay, twenty-eight guns, two men killed, four wounded ;

seventeen

Active, twenty-eight guns, Lieutenant killed, four wounded; Acteon twenty-eight, Sphinx twenty, Syren twenty-eight got aground, the first in coming up, the two latter in running away. The Sphinx cut away her bowsprit the Syren got off. Acteon, by the assistance of a friendly English seaman, remained fast, burnt and blown up by her own people. While she was on fire, Mr. Millegen, one of our marine officers, and a party of men, boarded her, brought all

;

off her colours, the ship's bell, and as

many

sails

and stores

The Thunder, bomb,

as their boats could carry.

considerable distance, throwing shells at the

fort,

lay at a

and by

overcharging had shattered the beds and damaged the shij) so much as to render it rtecessary for her to go into dock before she can act again. The Friendship, a hired armed vessel of twenty-six guns, of various sizes, covered the bomb, as did the Syren, who very briskly at the fort recochet shots. The badly manned and sickly, particulariy the Syren's crew, at two-thirds short allowance of provisions and also

fired

whole

fleet

They have had no

water. (the

1

St

fresh

meat since

their arrival

of June.)

;

But with their limbs they did not lose their spirits they enthusiastically encouraged their comrades never to abandon the standard of liberty and their country. This, I do assure you, is not in the style of gasconading romance

limbs. for

usual after every successful action, but literally a fact. I with great pleasure mention the circumstance, as it augurs

At eleven the fire ceased, twelve hours whhout the least inter-

well to the cause of freedom.

having continued just mission.

Lord

JVilliam, Campbell had been very anxious for the and proposed to take all the forts with only the Syren and Solebay. Lord Cornwallis has the chief command of the forces by land. He and General Clinton are both ashore with the troops at Long-Island. His Lordship some time ago had urged Sir Peter Parker to attack on the sea-side, otherwise he would march up, attack and take the fort, and complain of Sir Peter's tardiness. The Commodore replied. Lord Cornwallis might march his troops when he pleased, but the fleet required fair wind the first that happened, he would proceed against the fort. The General at that time believed we had no troops out of garrison but he was soon better informed, being since repulsed and driven back, with loss. He remained quiet, and left the

attack,

;

;

Commodore

to enjoy the glory of being

The

negro

pilot,

(^Sampson,)

The former deserters who had seen all the land of.

Thomas Bennet, of Colonel Danielson's Massachusetts Regiment ; Daniel Hawkins, of Boston Robert Scott and Edmund Allston, of NewHampshire and James Scott, of Virginia, deserters from the Fleet ivhich attacked and were beaten off by the ;

;

Fort at Sullivan's Island, Friday, 28th June, 1776.

They

Americans, and had been taken by the Bennet, Hawkins, and Scott, in the sloop Sally ; Scott and Allston in the brigantine Friendship. The Bristol, of fifty guns, commanded by Sir Peter Parker, greatly damaged in her hull, large knees and timbers shot through and smashed. If the water had not been very smooth, it would have been impossible to have kept her from sinking. All the carpenters in the fleet had been called to her assistance mizzenmast shot away, mainmast badly wounded by three several shot, foremast by two, rigging, sails and yards much injured. The Captain of the Commodore lost his left arm above the elbow. He was sent yesterday (30th of June) to EngThe Commodore's breeches torn otf, land in a brigantine. his backside laid bare, his thigh and knee wounded, and he walks only when supported by two men. Forty-four men are

all

at sea

;

and thirty wounded among whom were many Midshipmen and petty officers. Twenty of the wounded dead Talked in the fleet that the two large since the action. ships would go over the bar again, and proceed to Eitglish harbour in Antigua, to be repaired.

killed

The

who

is

exceedingly caressed,

was on board the Commodore, and put down with the Doctor, out of harm's way. When the fleet left Cork, the number of troops was about four thousand but eleven transports had been separated from the rest, and not since heard ;

Narrative, by

enemy

defeated alone.

This must have been a mistalse, from Lord Connvallis' having the command when the fleet left Cork, in Ireland.

thirteen

from on board the Ranger sloop, forces, said the

hundred to two thousand,

amount was from Between nine

at most.

and ten o'clock the night of the action the Commodore and other ships began to steal away they made no piping, nor waited to heave up their anchors, but slipped their cables. The Commodore has only one anchor and cable left. About two o'clock on Friday, when the fort was waiting for supply of powder, some of the men-of-war's men mistaking the unavoidable silence for surrender, cried out. The Yankees had done fighting. Others replied. By God we are glad of it; for we never had such a drubbing in our lives we had been told the Yankees would not stand two fires, All the common men but we never saw better fellows. Brave, fine fellows. spoke loudly in praise of the garrison The seamen, in general, are desirous of getting on shore to





join the Americans.

One 3IcNeil, a deserter from Colonel Gadsden's Regiment, had informed the Commodore that before he left Fort Johnston, he had spiked up all the cannon, and that the fort might easily be taken. A report in the fleet that no quartos would be given to the Americans, and that five thousand pounds sterling had been offered for General Lee.

;

Bristol,

when

lightened as

much

as possible,

draws

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM CHARLESTOWN, SOUTH-CAROLINA, dated JULY 2, 1776.

On

Tuesday the 4th ultimo, the British

fleet,

consisting

of ten ships of war and thirty transports, appeared otf our

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1207

&c.,

JULY,

1208

1776.

So formidable an armament would have alarmed us, had we not been conscious of the justice of our cause but trustintf that the Almighty would support and protect us in this glorious struggle for liberty, the most righteous of all contests, we were resolved to make the most vigorous oppoWe had information two days before sition in our power. that they were in at BuWs, so that their arrival was not As we were ignorant of the mode alto"ether unexpected. of attack intended by the enemy. General ^;7/w/ro?(^ ordered some breastworks to be thrown up at such places as he

honour on them. Lee was present almost the whole fire, and declares both officers and men behaved with the greatest coolness and intrepidity; they behaved as well as ever men

thought they would most probably attempt to land, little thinking they would bend their whole force against Sullivan's So great a number of vessels, as you may supIsland fort. pose, could not get over the bar Immediately, nor did they until Sunday, the 9th, en which day Generals Hoive and

astonishing,

bar.

;

Lee

arrived here.

Lee immediately saw

JULY

their troops en-

9,

1776.

having been judged advisable

Experiment arrived, and the next day came over the bar, when for the attack ; the 28th, at half an hour nine in the morning, informed General Clinton, by signal, that I should go on to the attack. At half an hour after ten made the signal to weigh, and about a quarter after eleven the Bristol, Experiment, .ictive, and Solebay, brought up against the fort. The Thunder, bomb, covered by the Friendship armed vessel, brought the angle of the bastion to bear northwest by north, and Colonel .fumes (who has ever since our arrival been anxious to give the best assistance) threw several shells a little beThe Sphinx, fore and during the engagement, in very good direction. Acteon, and Syren, were to have been to the westward, to prevent fireships or other armed vessels from annoying the ships engaged to flank the works, and, if the Rebels should be driven from them, to cut off" their This last service was not performed, owing to the retreat if possible. ignorance of the pilot, who ran the three frigates aground. The Sphinx and Syre/i got otf in a few hours, but the Acteon remained fast till the next morning, when the Captain and officers thought proper to scuttle and set her on fire. I ordered a Court-Martial on the Captain, oflicers, and company, and (hey have been honourably acquitted. Captain Hope made his armed ship as useful as he could on this occasion, and he merits everything that can be said in his favour. During the time of our being abreast of the fort, which was near ten hours, a brisk firing was kept up by the ships, with intervals, and we had the satisfaction, after being engaged two hours, to oblige the Rebels to slacken their fire very much. drove large parties several times out of the fort, which were reAbout half an hour after three, a conplaced by others from the main. siderable reinforcement from JMount-Pleasant hung a man on a tree at that the same party ran away about imagine ; and we the back of the fort an hour after, for the fort was then totally silenced, and evacuated for the Rebels, finding that our Army could half; but near one hour and a not take possession, about six o'clock a considerable body of peojile refiring from two or three guns, the rest entered the fort, and renewed the being, I suppose, dismounted. About nine o'clock, it being very dark, part of our ammunition expended, the people fatigued, the tide of ebb almost done, no prospect from the eastward, and no possibility of our being of any further service, I ordered the ships to withdraw to their former moorTheir Lordships will see plainly by this account, that if the troops ings. could have co-operated on this attack, his Majesty would have been in But I must beg leave to be fully unpossession of Sullivan's Island. derstood, lest it should be imagined that I mean to throw the most distant I should not discharge my conscience were I reflection on our Army. not to acknowledge that such was my opinion of his Majesty's troops, from the General down to the private soldier, that after I had been engaged some hours, and perceived the troops had not got a fooling on tlie north end of Siilliva7i's Island, I was perfectly satisfied that the latiding was impracticable, and that the attempt would have been the destruction of many bravo men, without the least probability of success and this, I am certain, will appear to be the case when General Clinton represents his situation. The Bristol had forty men killed and seventy-one wounded ; the Experiment twenty-three killed and fifty-six wounded, and both of them suflcred much in their hulls, masts, and rigging the Active had Lieutenant Pilie killed, and sii men wounded, and the Solebay had 25th, the

a

new arrangement was made

after

:

the Acteon was driven ashore by another shot, as it is said is of no consequence, for she could not be got oft', ;

but that

and the next morning the enemy set her on fire, leaving almost all her stores on board, some of which, however, we have got, and shall get most of her guns the ketch was totally disabled, after discharging about twenty shells, by one bursting, which split the bed of the mortar. The five first vessels continued a very heavy cannonade, one of the most fierce ever known, without ten minutes' intermission in the whole, in which, by the most moderate calculation, they could not have fired less than twelve thousand times, till nine o'clock at night, when they ceased, lying the whole time within four hundred yards of the fort and about three o'clock next morning they very quiedy retired to their The Bristol has lost her mizzenmast, and former station. ;

;

from the

The ComBristol, gave us the following intelligence, viz modore was wounded in the breech Captain of the Bristol, :

;

and thirty wounded Experiment, Captain and fifty-seven men killed, and thirty wounded Solebay, three or four killed they can say nothing as to the killed and wounded of the other vessels. The Captain of the Bristol sailed for England on Sunday, to Our whole loss at carry them the good news, I suppose. the fort was ten killed, three of whom by their own impruThe fort is as good as dence, and twenty-two wounded. ;

;

The conduct of Colonel Moultrie, his officers it was. and men, merits the highest applause, and reflects the greatest ever

fort,

of the squadron my arrangement for the attack of the batteries on Snllivan^s Island, and the next day acquainted General Clinton tiiat the The General fixed on the 23d for our joint attack, ships were ready. The but the wind proving unfavourable prevented its taking etfect.

of fifty guns, Experiment fifty, twenty-^ight, Active thirty-six, Acteon thirty-six, Spliinx The Sphinx had her bowsprit shot away the first twenty. shot that was fired at her, which sent her out of the line

;

the time of attacking the

to make an attempt upon Charlestown from Cape-Fear on the 1st of June, and on the 4th anchored ofl" Charlestown Bar. The 5th, sounded the bar, and laid down buoys preparatory to the intended entrance of the The 7th, all the frigates and most of the transports got over harbour. The 9th, General Clinton landed on the bar into Five-Fathom Hole. Long-Island with about four or five hundred men. The 10th, the Briswith some difficulty. The 15th gave the Captains over the bar tol got It

and at half-past eleven engaged the Bristol, Sokbay twenty-eight, Syren

killed,

At

in South- Carolina, the fleet sailed

their attack,

men

the Experiment has three or four ports

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM 8IH PETER PARKER TO MR. STEPHENS, SECRETARY OF THE ADMIRALTY, DATED WITHIN CHARLESTOWN BAH,

Sullivan's, to divert their attention while the

forty-four

is,

into one,



;

off",

it

hu-

zette.]

the retreat from Sullivan's, if they silenced the fort and on Friday last, the 28th, they convinced us that the former was their scheme, for at three-quarters of an hour after ten o'clock in the morning, their Bomb-ketch began to play on

arm shot

as

all

would have



men, on Long-Island, which is at the back of Sulwith intent, we supposed, either to attack us in front and rear at the same time, (which certainly was a very good plan, if they could have eff'ected it,) or to land on the main, get possession of HaddrelTs Point, and by that means cut

his

the quantity there, in

* Whitehah, (LoN-iiojj,) August 24, 177G. Captain Hope arrived on Wednesday evening last from South- Carolina, with despatches from Commodore fciir Peter Parker and Lieutenant-General Clinton. [Ga-

Uvati's,

her mainmast is also much disabled. Monday morning, five sailors, who deserted

we had had double

if

successful.*

effective

all

o'clock,

deavoured to land on the Island, and were twice repulsed by Thompson's Rangers, about three hundred men. Be assured the foregoing account is true in every particular. There are many other circumstances of the spirit and bravery of individuals, which would appear still more incredible for young soldiers, that I have not time to relate. I expect in about ten days we shall have another brush with them, and doubt not but through the Divine favour we shall be equally

and both came over the next day. During the interval, enemy landed their troops, in number about two thousand

make

;

oft';

sels.

bar,

o'clock the following ships were

Unfortunately for us nearly

was expended by three

It is and is otherwise terribly shattered. and almost incredible to think, that a palmetto bring log fort, with twelve guns, (those were all they could to bear on th» vessels,) and three hundred men, should make such havock with so formidable a fleet of British ves-

twelve miles of the town. On the 10th, their last and largest vessel, the Bristol, of fifty guns, came over the bar, having previously taken out all her guns and stores, and that night a very smart gale of wind came on, which lasted two days, and drove oft' the vessel that had her stores on board, who never could beat up again till Tuesday, the 25th, when she and the Experiment (another fifty-gun ship) appeared oft' the

at

could do.

was some time before they could even get a small

knocked



fort

men

probability neither of those fifty-gun ships

got

The people expressed the greatest alacrity wharves, &ic. old and young, high and low, rich in doing it immediately and poor, white and black, one with another, set about the work, and for several days were constandy employed in making such preparations for a defence of the town as were thought necessary, the enemy all the while lying within

ships advanced to

as well as

it

man

town was in, and the impossibility of keeping it, if He accordingly the next day attacked in such a situation. drew up all the men in town, in number about one thousand, told them the absolute necessity of some breastworks being thrown up round the town, pulling down the houses on the

the

the ammunition at the fort

supply

the defenceless

oft'



all

and

state our

the

did

We

;

;

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1209

THOMAS ENNALLS TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. Cambridge, July

Gentlemen: On Saturday,

the 29tli ultimo,

I

be tenders. anxiety. as could

JULY,

1776.

1210

This gave the inhabitants great uneasiness and

They,

1770.

received

2,

&c.,

therefore, ordered such part of the Militia

readily be collected

assemble

to

prevent the

to

information, by express, from Colonel William Traders, (of

enemy from committing

the corps of the lower part of this County,) that there were that tliey had landed five tenders then in Hooper's Straits

formed by them that they (bund many of the people

on Hopkins's Island, and had taken upwards of sixty head of cattle from that place, together with two young men, and everything else that was valuable on the Island that they had committed considerable depredations on the Somerset

ficult

;

;

shore, and thrown that County into die utmost confusion and he expected they would commit further ravages in this County. In consequence of this information, I ordered Colonel John Eimalls and Major Robert Harrison to go down to that neighbourhood (it being forty miles from this place) to get further information respecting these circumstances, and to take such steps as should appear to them to be necesThey immediately went down and sary on the occasion. I am informed by them that on their arrival there they found affairs circumstanced as above related. The tenders had gone down the bay with their plunder a few hours before they arrived but the Militia of that corps were still upon duty many of them being much fatigued and anxious to go home, they were all discharged, except about forty who were left to keep a look-out. In the evening of that day there appeared in Nanticoke Sou7id one large ship, and seven other vessels supposed to ;

;

part of the

men wounded. Not one man who was quartered at the beginning of the action on the Sristol's quarter deck, escaped being liilied or woundCaptain Morris lost his right arm, and received other wounds, and ed. is since dead ; the master is wounded in his right arm, but will recover the use of it. I received several contusions at different times, but as .fione of them are on any part where the least danger can be apprehended, they are not worth mentioning. Lieutenants Cmdfeld, MoUoy, and eight

JVug-ent, were the Lieutenants of the Bristol in the action ; they behaved so remarkably well that it is impossible to say to whom the prefer-

ence is due, and so indeed I may say of all the petty officers, ship's company, and volunteers. At the head of the latter I must place Lord JVilliam Campbell, who was so condescending as to accept of the direction of some guns on the lower gun-deck. His Lordship received a contusion on his left side but I have the happiness to inform their Lordships that it has not proved of much consequence. Captain Scott, of the Experiment, lost his left arm, and is otherwise so much wounded that I fear he will not recover. I cannot conclude this letter without remarking, that when itj|was known that we had many men too weak to come to quarters, almost all the seamen belonging to the transports offered their service with a truly JBritish spirit, and a just sense of the cause we are engaged in. I accepted of upwards of fifty to supply the place of our sick. The masters of many of the transports attended with their boats, but particular thanks are due to Mr. Chambers, the master of the Mercury. All the regiments will be embarked in a few days. The first brigade, consisting of four regiments, will sail in a day or two under convoy for JVe-w-York ; and the Bristol and Experiment will, I hope, soon follow with the remainder. ;

Peter Parker's squadron consisted of the following Ships and the Bristol, fifty guns. Sir Peter Parker Commodore, Jo/m Experiment, fifty, Jllexander Scott ; Jlctive, twentyeight, William Williams ; Solebay, twenty-eight, Thomas Symonds Jlcteon, twenty-eight, Christopher .itkins; Syren, twenty-eight, Tobias Fumeaux; Sphinx, twenty, Anthony Hunt; Friendship, armed vessel, twenty-two, Charles Hope; Ranger, sloop, eight. Soger Wills; Thimder, (hotah,) eight, James Jieid ; Saint Lawrence, schooner, Sir

Vessels

:

Morris Captain

;

Lieutenant Johji Gra-ves.

V(.'ry

lukewarm

am

I

that

in

their opposition, dif-

in

be got together, and, when collected,

to

further in-

such bad

in

discipline they are not (in their opinion) to be relied on, they

paying but

regard to the instructions of their officers. I have thought it advisable to order part of the Militia under my coinmand to march little

Things being

down

in

this situation,

to their assistance

;

and

I

myself we

flatter

shall

be

able to prevent their landing in that quarter ; but should the enemy continue there a few days, and keep the IMilitia on duty, numbers of the inhabitants must unavoidably lose a considerable part of their crops, their

ready to cut. Captain Woolford

wheat being now

with his

company on

the borders of Nanticoke, near the

mouth of

that river, to

guard that neighbourhood, where wanted.

his assistance

is

at this time

must further beg leave

I

;

;

County

damage.

further

are badly fitted with arms.

one half of them have cient quantity of

should

to inform

am

I

effective

powder and

is

much

you that our

Militia

clearly of opinion that not

guns

;

neither have

we

suffi-

lead, (particularly the latter,)

we have occasion to make use of those articles. this moment received an express from Hooper's

have

I



have wished for, to extend their lines, &c.: they were not idle every hour gave us astonishing proofs of their industry. As we anchored at one league distance from Sullivan's Island, we could see all that was going on with the help of our glasses. The fort on this Island is exceedingly strong, (or rather the battery ;) it is built of palm trees and earth, and'on it are mounted eighteen of the lower deck guns of the Foudroyant I never could distinguish more than seventeen others imagined they could see nineteen however, that is immaterial. The signal for attacking was made by Sir Peter Parker on the 27th of June ; but the wind coming suddenly to the northward, the ships were obliged again to anchor. The troops have been encamped on LongIsland since the 15th, and it was intended that General Clinton should pass the neck that divides Long-Island from Sullivan's Island, and attack by land while Sir Peter attacked by sea. General Lee had made such a disposition of masked batteries, troops, &c., that it is the opinion of all the officers of the Army whom I have heard mention this circumstance, that if our troops had attacked, they must have been cut oil'; but this assertion does not satisfy the Navy, for they certainly expected great assistance from the Army. Excuse this necessary digression. On the :

;



morning of the 28lh, the wind proved favourable

;

it

was a

clear fine

day, but very sultry ; the Thunder, bomb, began the attack at half past eleven, by throwing shells while the ships were advancing. The ships that advanced to attack the battery were the Bristol and Experiment, two fifty-gun ships ; the Solebay, Active, Acteon, and Syren, of twentyeight guns ; the Sphinx, of twenty, and the Friendship, an armed ship

of twenty-eight guns. With this force what might not have been expected ? Unfortunately the bomb was placed at such a distance that she was not of the least service. This Colonel James, the principal engineer, immediately perceived ; to remedy which inconvenience, an additional quantity of powder was added to each mortar the consequences were, the breaking down the beds, and totally disabling her for the rest of the day. The Bristol and Experiment have suffered most incredibly: the former very early had the spring of her cable shot away of course she lay end on to the battery, and was raked fore and aft she lost upwards ;



;

men

and wounded. Captain Morris, who commanded her, lost his arm the worthy man, however, died a week after on board the Pigot. Perhaps an instance of such slaughter cannot be produced twice the quarter-deck was cleared of every person except Sir Peter, and he was slightly wounded she had nine thirty-two pound shot in her mainmast, which is so much damaged as to be obfiged to be shortened the mizzen had seven thirty -two-pound shot, and was obliged, being much shattered, to be entirely cut away. It is impossible to pretend to describe what our shipping have sutlered. Captain Scott, of the Experiment, lost his right arm, and the ship suffered exceedingly; she had much the same number killed and wounded as the Bristol. Our situation was rendered very disagreeable by the .Icteon, Syren, and Sphinx, running foul of each other, and getting on shore on the middle ground. The Sphinx disengaged herself by cutting away her bowsprit and, as it was not yet flood-tide, the Sphinx and Syren fortunately warped off. The .icteon was burnt next morning by Captain .itkins, to prevent her falling into the hands of the Provincials, as fine a new frigate Our ships, after laying nine hours before tile battery, were as I ever saw. of

one hundred

killed ;

;



Whitehali,, August 24. It appears by Lieutenant-General Clinton's Lord George Germaine, dated July 8, 1776, from the Camp on Long-Island, Province of South- Carolina, that Sir Peter Parker and letters to

the General having received intelligence that the fortress erected by the Rebels on Sullivan's Island (the key to Charlestown harbour) was in an imperfect and unfisished state, resolved to attempt the reduction thereof by a coupe de main, and that, in order that the Army might cooperate with the fleet, the General landed his troops on Long-Island,

which had been represented

to him as communicating with Sullivan's Island by a ford passable at low-water but that he, to his very great mortification, found the channel, which was reported to be eighteen inches deep at low water, to be seven feet deep, which circumstance ren;

dered

it

attack

impossible for the Army to give that assistance to the fleet in the the fortress that the General intended, and which he,

made upon

and the troops under his command, ardently wished

to do.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A SURGEON IS SIR PETER PARKEr's FLEET, BATED JCLY 9, 1776.

We

Cape-Fear on the 27th of May, and anchored the same evening off the bar. The camp was struck at the same time, and the troops embarked the same evening on board the several transports. All our motions were so languid and so innervate, that it was the 9th of June before the Bristol and Pigot passed the bar of Charlesto-wn; the Bristol in passing struck, which alarmed us all exceedingly; but, as it wanted two hours of high water, she soon floated again. The Prince of Piedmont, a victualling ship, was totally lost on the north breakers of the bar. General Clinton and Lord Corinvallis were both on board when she struck but as the weather was very fine, they were not in the least \eh

;

danger.

By our

delays

we gave

the people every opportunity they could

;

;

obliged to retire with great loss. til

The

Provincials reserved their

fire

un-

their artillery the shipping were advanced within point blank shot surprisingly well served, it is said, under the command of a Mr. ;

was

Masson and DeBrahm

; it was slow, but decisive indeed ; they were very cool, and took great care not to fire except their guns were exceedBut there was a time when the battery appeared to ingly well directed. be silenced for more than an hour ; the Navy say, had the troops been that ready to land at this time, they could have taken possession. is I will not pretend to say. I will rather suppose it; but the fire became exceedinglv severe when it was renewed again, and did amazing execuThis tion after the battery had been supposed to have been silenced. will not be believed when it is first reported in England. I can scarcely a day to me one of the most believe what I myself saw on that day The Navy, on this occasion, have behaved with distressing of my life. one would have imagined that no their usual coolness and intrepidity

How



;

battery could have resisted their incessant fire.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1211

by which I am informed that the ship of war is now mouth of Naniicoke, two of the tenders in Hungar River, and one in Fishing Bay, close to the shore that the

fee,

Straits,

will not carry as

in the

age.

1776.

much by two hundred

barrels as last voy-

John Martin.

and much harassed by them.

have not the least doubt but they are in the like or a I think it my duty to worse situation in Somerset County. give you tliis information as early as possible, and doubt not you will give such assistance as the emergency of our affairs

1212

Gentlemen, your humble servant,

;

in great confusion,

people are

JULY,

I

To

require.

N. B. I lost the opportunity by Mr. Lux, not knowing he would go that day, and confusion with the tendere. I was fired at near the harbour by one the morning I got in.

I have the honour and humble servant,

To

to be,

the Honourable the Council of Safety of Maryland.

J.

gentlemen, your most obedient

M.

^^^^^^ Ennalls. ELBRIDGE GERRY TO JAMES WARREN.

the Honourable the Council of Safety.

Philadelphia, July 2, 1776.

Dear

BENNETT BRACCO TO GABRIEL DUVALL. Port-Tobacco, July

2,

1776.

Sir

have only time to inform you that yesterday was agitated in Congress the great question of Independency and as the facts are as well known at the CofTeeI

:

;

Dear

have sent the bearer, John Bamett, express to Annapolis, to request that you will make application to Sir

I

:

the Council for a

sum of money

to defray the

expenses of

House of the city as in Congress, I may go on to inform you that, in a Committee of the whole House, it was carried by nine Colonies.

providing food and other necessaries that are requisite for the

me

under inoculation here. The it be proper for the soldiers to eat the rations profor them by the Commissary, for three weeks at least, vided in which time their expenses will amount to near one hundred and fifty pounds, or thereabouts be that as it may, a true and just account shall be rendered of the expenditure of the money in case the Council think proper to advance 1 have expended pray do this as quickly as possible. it almost all my own cash and when that is gone, we may The whistle for provision until we can get a fresh supply. people here follow a very good rule, not to trust us farther than they can see us. Please apply also for our subsistence from the 15th of March last, and let me know whether it will be granted, agreeable to account rendered by Capain Beall some time ago if it should, you will send it by the bearer, as I promise you I want it much. I would have written to the Council, but did not know whether it would be agreeable to them to receive it from among the small-pox. Be kind enough to despatch Wirt down immediately; let no excuse stop him. I hear that he wants to stay you may tell him he is to return again. Please write me, and enclose a list of the officers of the but am, dear flying camp. I have nothing new to write sir, your most obedient, humble servant, Doctors

soldiers

tell

that

will not

I

remain,

humble

To

;

with due regard, your assured friend and

Elbridge Gerry.

Colonel Warren.

HENRY WISNER TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

;

;

sir,

servant.

Philadelphia, July 2, 1776.

Gentlemen

Since writing the enclosed, the question of Independence has been put in Congress, pnd carried in the affirmative, without one dissenting vote. I therefore be" your answer as quick as possible to the enclosed. I

:

am, with due regard, your humble servant,

.^Mk

Henry Wisner.^

To

New- York.

the Provincial Congress, at

;

;

;

Bennett Bracco.

To

Mr. Ridgely, or Mr. G. Duvall,

at

Annapolis.

P. S. We are all getting tlirough the small-pox as well as can be expected.

JOHN MARTIN TO MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY.

Gentlemen: This

you of

will inform

my safe arrival

with

the brig Friendship into Chingoteague on Tuesday, July 2d,

which Mr. Richards has taken on your account. I likewise enclose you a manifest of the cargo I have on board,* best part of which I have got on shore, under the protection of Colonel F. Lemmon. Be so kind as to let me know as soon as possible what measures must be taken with the brig and crew, they being all in debt to the vessel, some three pounds, some more and some less. I have not time to write you a full detail, for

there are three tenders cruising off

bour, which puts

me

If the brig should

go

confusion

in

fit

I get

out again, should

hope you

in her, I

till

will grant

me

1

lliis

har-

my

cargo landed. be appointed to

leave to go as far as

Baltimore, to see my little family and settle with my last owner. I have on board eight officers and twenty-three hands three four-pounders, six three-pounders, six swivels, and one

cohorn.

Be

powder and

me have what quantity of keep on board for the vessel's use,

so kind as to let

lead

I

shall

for the tenders are dangerous.

If the brig lass,

and new

steerage

is

cut off; and

is

carry this

if I

:

Committee of the whole Congress, be finally determined in the House. know the line of our conduct on this occasion we have your instructions, and will faithfully pursue them. New doubts and difficulties, however, will arise should Independency be agitated yesterday in a

and

this

number of hands she

"Manifest of Sundries received on board the Brig Friendship, CapJohn Martin. 7 chests, marked R. F., No. I to 7; I bale, marked R. F., No. 8 23 bales of Canvass 225 barrels of Powder 228 halfbarrels of Powder; 2 large chests 1 crate 3 barrels 2 sheets of Lead; 17 chests of Arms; 2 cases, marked E. R.; 1 cask, marked W.; 1 bale, marked J. R.; 1 chest, marked H. C; 1 bale, marked H. C; 1 1 bolts of loose Canvass 1 small box, marked H. Y. ;

;

;

;

We

will

:

it will not, we have not the least reason expect nor do we believe that (if any) more than one Colony (and the Delegates of that divided) will vote against the question, every Colony (ours only excepted) having withdrawn their former instructions, and either positively instructed their Delegates to vote for Independency, or concur in such vote, if they shall judge it expedient. What part are we to act after this event takes place ? Every act we join in may then be considered as in some measure acceding to the vote of Independency, and binding our Colony on that score. Indeed many matters in this new situation may turn up in which the propriety of our voting may be very doubtful though we conceive (considering the critical situation of publick affaire, and as they respect our Colony in particular, invaded or soon likely to be by powerful armies in different quarters) it is our duty, nay, it is absolutely necessary, that we should not only concur with, but exert ourselves in forwarding our military operations. The immediate safety of the Colony calls for and will warrant us Our situation is singular and delicate, no other in this. Colony being similarly circumstanced, with whom we can wish, therefore, for your earliest advice and consult. instructions, whether we are to consider our Colony bound by the vote of the majority in favour of Independency, and vote at large on such questions as may arise in consequence thereof; or only concur in such measures as may be absolutely necessary for the common safety and defence of America, exclusive of the idea of Independency. We fear it will be difficult to draw the line but, once possessed of your instructions, we will do our best endeavours to follow them. are, with the greatest respect, your most obedient

declared, and that to

;

;

We

We

servants,



tain

day

;

out again, she must have a new windand maintops, and a new mainmast. The

fitted

fore

Philadelphia, July 2, 1776.

Gentlemen The important question of Independency was

^ ^ Oeorce Clinton, Henry Wisner, William Floyd,

;

;

Francis Lewis, John Alsop.

;

To the

Honourable the Provincial Congress of iVew-For/f.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1213

ADDRESS OF THE PENNSYLVANIA COMJIITTEE OF SAFETY.

of Pennsylvania.

This Committee, too much occupied

in

the various and

placed, have seldom troubled the publick with addresses little occasion has been afforded for them, es;

and, indeed,

own

conduct, while general

and entire confiremained but they are not so blinded by self-love, or so lost in their own importance, as not to perceive lately that both confidence and auNot resting thority are considerably shaken and impaired. on a foundation altogether popular, their existence has been beheld with jealousy, and, by an opposition formed on mistaken or unworthy principles, their conduct, in almost every branch of the publick service, has been traduced and vilified. In the honest discharge of duty they have been obliged to stand the unmerited reproaches of many individuals, as well After accumulated mortificaas of some publick bodies. tions, why they still continue to keep their seats ought to be accounted for, lest they be justly supposed insensible to the But it is necessary, first, to state feelings of men of honour. the transaction which has principally given rise to this adacquiescence

dence

in

their authority prevailed,

in their integrity

and

abilities

;

dress.

month the Committee apCommodore and Commander-in-Chief of the Naval Armament, equipped for the

About the beginning of

last

pointed Captain Samuel Davidson

defence of the River Delaware.

The

this

ap-

there

was

motives to

pointment, at a board of thirteen members,

when

not one dissenting voice, were such as these: 1st.

tain of

That during his continuance in the service as Capone of the armed boats, he was conspicuous among

the ofBcere for care and attention to his duty, and while he

he had the address to conciliand affections of his crew, and always kept his boat well manned. 2d. That having, on the return of Captain Davidson from a short voyage, in which he was spared from the service of this Province to go into that of the Congress, and while perfect harmony yet existed between this Board and all its officers, and on a deliberate estimate of the comparative merits of each, given him, though a younger officer, the more important command of the floating battery, in which the same superior good conduct was observable, the Commaintained a

strict discipline,

ate the regard

mittee acted but consistently with themselves him to a still higher rank.

in

elevating

;

;

lick questions influence, in

some degree, the publick opinion.

Mutiny was

justified and abetted, and disobedience triumphed over authority. The Committee thought it their duty to adhere to the appointment they had made, the Conference of Committees interposed by the following Resolution, agreed to immediately before their dissolution :

"That

be recommended to the Committee of Safety of this Province to confine the command of Commodore Davidson to the ship of war and floating battery belonging to the it

until

the Convention meets

;

and that

ment

to the

shall take place."

The

Board, astonished and surprised, would have remonit, not without hope that, on a fair and impartial state of the question, those who, from the nature of their appointment, could have nothing in view but the publick happiness, and who could not have been insensible of the benefit of good order and discipline, would have recalled this hasty determination, which may be so fatal to both, buj the dissolution would not allow the necessary time. The Committee doubt not the purity of the intention which produced this Resolution, and by which their power in so important a branch is so greatly mutilated, if not altogether destroyed. They well know the regard due to the representatives of the people, and are disposed to submit to the recommendation, though wounded and dishonoured by it. But they would have it understood that the continuance of many of their Board, under such circumstances, is of necessity, as no body of men can at present be appointed to supply their places, and as they perhaps may, fettered in their authority as they are, still render some small services They, however, think it incumbent on to their country. them to declare that many bad consequences may probably Military authority is proceed from a divided command. not of a nature to be participated, and when attempted, the Should this ungreatest mischiefs commonly flow from it. fortunately prove so in our case, the Committee are not responsible they have performed their duty, and look forward with pleasure to the short period of a few weeks which is to deprive them of the seats they have held, of late so strated against

;

much

to the dissatisfaction of

some men and uneasiness

to

themselves.

Extract from the Minutes

:

WiLLi.wi GovETT, Secretary.

general MIFFLIN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Camp

My

DEAR General:

at

I

Mount Washington, July

2,

1776.

the works well advanced,

find

The teams allotted to thera but not in a state of defence. have been taken off some of them sent to town for materials and there detained, others necessarily employed in haul-



up the powder (which is now stored in the best place could find) and provisions from the landing. From the Colonel's reports, the men's arms are in a most Colonel Magaiv has not more than one alarming situation hundred and twenty-five in his regiment fit for service Colonel Shea about three hundred, including all the carbines which they received lately by your order. If the enemy ing

A

clamour having been formerly excited against a superior officer, because, as was said, he had not been of the fleet, and some of the officers having since declared they would yield ready obedience to any Commodore if taken from their own establishment, even though he should be the youngest among them, the present appointment, as it prevented the necessity of going out of the fleet, was considered rather as conciliatory than as administering cause of uneasiness and discontent. They were well aware of the obvious military maxim to which they had run counter, of advancing men according to seniority but this maxim, though perhaps proper in old establishments where a long ^ course of service in the lower classes are supposed to confer the necessary qualifications for the higher, may and ought occasionally to be dispensed with in the formation of new ones. Where there can be but a slender pretext for qualifications from this cause, merit is to be sought out and preferred wherever to be found, though ambition should be disappointed or delicacy offended. In many instances have the Congress departed from this supposed fundamental maxim, and their country has been benefited by it. The resistance of the officers of the armed boats to this appointment, and their indecent remonstrance, are well known they were countenanced and supported by men whose decisions on pub3d.

Commodore,

be recommended

Captains and other officers of the row-galleys, &.c., to pay all due obedience to the Committee of Safely until that time, and until a new appointit

multiplied business of the department in which they are

pecially in justification of their

1214

Province, and to issue no orders to the Captains or other of the row-galleys, fire-ships or fire-rafts, through

the said the Inhabitants

1776.

officers

In Commiltee'of Safety, Philadelphia, July 2, 1776.

To

JULY,

&ic.,

I

;

pay us a visit, we will do our best, and endeavour to make up in zeal what we want in appointment. Should sufficient reinforcements arrive at share

You

?

this post,

into our

my

dear General, and

power

to

work within our I

think the

New- York, may we

not expect a

are best acquainted with the importance of

myself

will put it do something more than mere defensive I flatter

lines.

enemy may

divert our attention to the heights

expected that we can deshall be happy in your orders how to act if a landing should be attempted above or below us, at the same time that we may have reason to beWere the lieve our present post to be one of their objects. works in good order and the men well equipped, I could easily determine those points, but circumstanced as we are, I do not see how we can permit even a small party to leave the environs of this camp without exposing it to immediate danger, and yet I might be tempted to do it. I propose to exercise with the artillery, if the works will admit of it, two companies who are not armed our principal business within the works must be with artillery. have many arms which might soon be put in order if

above King's Bridge ; if so, is tach a party to oppose them ?

it

I

;

We

Colonel Moylan will favour us with four annourei-s and some Captain Bacon promised it several days past, but tools ;

still

I

neglects us.

am,

my

dear General, your obedient, humble servant,

Thomas Mifflin, B. G.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1215 R.

CARET,

C, TO GENERAL MIFFLIN.

A. D.

Head-Quarters, New-York, July

Sir

:

am

I

ordered by

his

2,

1776.

Excellency General Washing-

ton to return you for answer to your favour of this day's

power to supply you with any arms, want of them in the camp here, which he supposes you are not insensible of There is a number of rifle-guns which are retained for the recruits, and which the General will lend you for the present, if there are any date, that

as there

men how

in

it is

is

not

in his

a great

Colonel Magaw's or Shears Regiments, who know them, otherwise he thinks they will be sent to no

to use

purpose.

Colonel Moylan has

and

tools,

day despatched some armourers

this

agreeable to your directions.

You may depend on receiving a reinforcement as soon as any considerable number of Militia arrives. As yet so few have reached this, that none can possibly be spared. The General

&c.,

JULY,

;

as I can, consistent with

vant,

mean time

lines,

To

R. Carey, A. D. C.

Brigadier-General

Thomas

Mifflin.

New :

I

wrote a few

last relative to

lines to

my situation

;

gendemen,

assured,

that

my

that,

that I shall

upon

my

health

Jail,

July 2, 1776.

Mr. Livingston on Saturday

but his departure for Philadelsuppose) an answer. I therein request;

resentment on a supposition of my being concerned. I should not deny this, Mr. Morris, to the greatest enemy I ever had, and I am not conscious of ever having injured any man notwithstanding which there

me

;

numbers who would now willingly take my life. If it was not that a wife and ten small children depend on my hands for their support, it would be of little consequence what became of this earthly tabernacle of mine. 1 shall commit this matter to your candour and humanity, and doubt not but that you will take such steps therein as you think in justice ought to be done to clear up my character from such infamous reports as have been propagated against me. I am, sir, with esteem, your very humble servant, are

David Matthews.

To Gouvemeur

Morris, Esq.

JAMES COGGESHALL TO GOUVERNEUR MORRIS.

New

Dear Morris

Jail,

flattering

myself

you

in

the

will think

being a friend to the rights and interests of my nais a fact so strongly implied as to require no

to the contrary.

am, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servant, Frederick Philips.

I

To Leonard well,

Gansevoort, Philip Livingston, Thomas TredLewis Graham, Gouvemeur Morris, Thomas Ran-

dall, Esquires.

THOMAS MOFFAT TO NEW-YORK CONGRESS.

lative to this horrid plot, in order to take off that

citizens harbour against

;

further consideration,

evidence on my part to prove it, until something more substantial than mere suspicion or vague surmises are proved

phia prevented (as I ed that some persons vv'hom I named might be sent for before the Committee, who would have entirely cleared up my character against the cruel aspersions that have been cast on it. I think you won't deny me some kind of certificate re-

which the

punctually attend as soon

tive country

DAVID MATTHEWS TO GOOVERNEUR MORRIS. Sir

1216

appear before you, whose conduct had been represented as inimical to the rights q{ America, of which number you say I am one. Who it is that has made such a representation, or upon what particular facts it is founded, as you have not stated them, it is impossible for me to imagine but considering my situation, and the near and intimate ties and connexions which 1 have in this country, (which can be secured and rendered happy to me only by the real and permanent prosperity of America,) I should have hoped that suspicions of this harsh nature would not be easily harboured. However, as they have been thought of weight sufficient to the notice attract of the Congress, I can only observe that, conscious of the uprightness of my intentions, and the integrity of my conduct, I would most readily comply with your summons, but the situation of my health is such as would render it very unadvisable for me to take a journey to NewYork at this time. 1 have had the misfortune, gendemen, of being deprived totally of the sight of my left eye, and the other is so much affected and inflamed as to make me very cautious how 1 expose it, for fear of a total loss of sight. This being my real situation, 1 must request the favour of you to excuse my attendance to-morrow but you may rest

has not the least expectation that in your premore than defend your though he is fully persuaded your most vigorous own exertions will be manifested in every respect. He also much approves of your intentions to exercise with the artillery those men who are not armed. I am, with respect, sir, your most obedient, humble sersent situation you will be able to do

1776.

(New- York,) July

2,

1776.

Residing peaceably upon Long-Island, I was taken prisoner, brought to town on Sunday evening, and confined in Jail. As there neither is nor can be any crime alleged against me, I flatter myself that for merely being a servant to his Majesty it cannot be the intention of the Congress to keep me in this situation. You may be assured that I am in a very bad state of health, and my constitution unable to sustain the dismal and weary hours of a prison. This, added to the precarious situation of every person confined here at present, makes me more than anxious I make no doubt of your readiness to afford to be free. every generous and humane assistance to relieve me. Wishing you all health and happiness, 1 am, dear sir, your most obedient, humble servant, :

James Coggeshall.

Blooming-Grove, July

2,

1776.

Enclosed you have a copy of the evidence of Ephraim Dunning, and the examination of John Samson, Sir:

relative to the plot contrived against

the liberties of the

United Colonies, which contain the substance of all the examinations that came before the Committee 'whilst sitting upon that business, and is the evidence in principal against T'homas Cayne, now confined in JSIew- York. The Commit-

same to you, in order that Committee of Congress, or any others who may have

tee thought proper to transmit the

the

the examination of Cayne, might be the better prepared to

mentioned to Dunning several they were concerned, ought Most of those persons were to be confined immediately. before the Committee, hut no evidence appearing against them were discharged, although there was reason to think that Mr. Gale was at least knowing to the affair, as several persons in his employ absconded as soon as the County Committee appeared in Goshen. Great pains have been taken to discover the leaders of the plot in this County, but no evidence has appeared against any one but Ebenezer Seely, who absconded when it first came out, and may possibly endeavour to get on board the man-of-war; a strict watch should be kept to prevent it if possible. Captain Seth Marvin will be able to give a description of him. Nicholas Dean, who moved from Sugar-Loaf to NewYork last spring, is the man that Cayne told Samsoji was Cayne ought to be strictly examined to be their Captain. interrogate

him

closely, as he

persons of distinction, who,

if

relative to him.

The Committee

thought proper to retain the following

persons in close confinement, viz

:

James

Ilajf, Julius Smith,

Matthew Swcny, John Samson, James Smith.

You of what

be good enough to give die further to be done with them.

will is

earliest information

am, with the most profound respect, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant. By order of the Committee Thomas Moffat. 1

:

FREDERICK PHILIPS TO THE COMMITTEE OF NEW-YORK CONGRESS. Philipsborough, July 2, 1776.

Gentlemen I was served on Saturday evening last with a paper signed by you, in which you suggest that you arc authorized by the Congress to summon certain persons to

To Colonel York, to

If'iUiam Allison, Esq., at the Congress in

or, in his

absence, to any other

Member

New-

belonging

Orange County.

:

William McCray, Samuel Mc Cray, and JohnMcKinstry, absconded from Mr. Gale's employ.

CORRESPOi\DEi\CE, PROCEEDINGS, he, JULY,

1217

GENERAL SCHUYLER TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Albany, July

2,

1776.

Sir: An hour after the post was gone tlie express arrived with your favour of the 28th continued to the 29th. I am extremely happy tliat your Excellency approved of the

Dear

orders given to General Sullivan. None of the expresses I sent to the eastward to hasten

on the Militia and to try to procure carpenters are yet reMr. Giles, one of the Council of New- Hampshire, turned. who brought me some money, arrived on Suiulay he in;

forms me that their Government did not receive the orders that of Congress for sending Militia until the 21st ultimo that he did orders were soon after issued to engage them not expect diey would be at Ticonderoga for some time to ;

;

come.

I

have assured the Eastern Colonies that every pre-

caution will be taken to prevent their being infected by the

small-pox.

On

Thursday last and on Sunday two gondolas were I hope we shall complete two every week with

finished.

what carpenters we now have. prepared and now carrying over to Schejiost at Fort Stamviv. 1 hope the greatest part of the stores will be embarked there to-moirovv and move the next day; if so, I hope Colonel Dayton will be on the 9th or 1 0th at Fort Stanwir ; he has his orders. His forces will consist of five hundred of his own regiment, about

Everything

nectady

is

taking

for

one hundred and fifty of JVynkoop's, seventy-five Militia intended for Canada, and three hundred Militia of the County, except one hundred of these men to be left at the German Flats; so that he will be about nine hundred strong. We shall want every man Congress has ordered to the northward but I fear that the shameful tardiness which pre;

vails

in

almost

all

the Colonies will greatly prejudice our

I was in hopes you would have been more effectusupported by them. What can they be about? I will try to be back I am this moment going to mount such time as to be at the conference at the German-

cause. ally

;

in

Flats. I

am, dear

sir,

with the greatest esteem, your Excellency's

most obedient, humble servant,

Philip Schuyler.

To

His Excellency General Washington.

general SULLIVAN TO PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. [Read July 16, 1776.]

Crown

Point, July 2, 1776.

Much respected

Sir: I beg leave to inform Congress of the unhappy state of our Northern Army, which arrived here last evening from Isle-la-Motte. After evacuating St. Johns, I thought best to make a stand at Isle-aux-Noix, till we could have some direction from Congress or the ComThis I knew would afford an opportunity mander-in-Chief. to our frontier inhabitants to remove, with their effects, to some place of safety, which they have in general done. have given them every assistance in our power for that The amazing number of our men taken down purpose. lay sickness at that unhealthy spot obliged us to remove to Isk-la-Motte, and from thence to this place. To give you a particular account of the miserable state of our troops there, and the numbers which daily keep dropping into their beds and graves, would rather seem like the eti'ect of imagination than a history of facts. I beg leave to suggest that this must be owing to the troops living so long upon salt provision, and having nothing to drink but the poisonous 1 am now in hopes, as this is a healthy water of the Lake. spot, and as the country affords good spring water, that we shall soon find the Army regain their health and that we shall be able to make an effectual stand at this place. I have ordered all the sick to be removed at a distance from the other troops, that the sight of such pitiful objects may not I shall do everything in my power to disperse the rest. preserve the health of the Army, and reduce the troops to some kind of order. 1 am now about fortifying this post, which 1 think may, in a short time, be made strong enough to baffle all the attempts of our enemies. I think that a number of row-galleys upon the Lake, upon the construction of those at Philadelphia, will be of great advantage. 1 am now preparing limber for that purpose, and beg Congress would send a workman from Philadelphia that understands cod-

We

;

Fourth Series.

—Vol.

vi.

1218

177G.

A

few of those vessels, in conjunction with structing them. those we already have, must eflectually give us the command of the Lake, and prevent the enemy from penetrating the country. 1 enclose a petition from the inhabitants about Onion River for protection. Colonel If amer offers to raise a regiment to protect that quarter. This I could not consent to, as 1 have no such autliority; but beg leave to recommend it

to Congress, as those

men

are

much

better calculated for

the purpose than any othei's, as they have such a thorough

knowledge of the country. 1 have sent Colonel Hinds, with a hundred and fifty men, to take post there till the pleasure of Congress can be known. The reason of my sending a chief Colonel with so small a detachment is, because he cannot do duty anywhere else for (ear of the small-pox this is ;

most of the men who are with him. 1 beg Congress to send me some directions about the defence of the frontiers, and building armed vessels here. Every order shall be complied with as soon as received. I have sent several times back to discover the motion of the enemy. also the case with

A

who went off with four men, has just returncounted the number of tents at .SV. Johns, and found them about a hundrcui and fifty; he found twenty-five at St. Rays, and fifteen at Chamhly. He sent off two of his men from St. Johns to give information, but they have not He tarried two days longer about St. Johns and arrived. Chamhly, and then returned through the woods to Missisque Bay. He found their trails at Missisque River, but could discover nothing of the men. I apprehend that the Indians have entrapped them. The Lieutenant could discover but Lieutenant,

He

ed.

two boats

and

at those places;

I

think

it

must take them

so long to construct vessels to transport their

Lake, I

am

we

Army

over the

by that time be ready to receive them. determined, however, not to lose a moment in securing that

shall

important post in the best manner possible, as I am convinced that the loss of this place would be next to losing our country. I beg leave, my dear sir, to assure you and the honourable Congress that I never had an idea of pain equal to that which I felt at the evacuation of Canada. I hope Congress

this

it to my timidity or want of resolution. 1 must refer you to Colonel Allen for the particular reasons which obliged us to abandon that country. I beg leave to recommend him to you as an intelligent, brave, and active officer, and one who will give you a perfect account of the miserable state of our Army in Canada, and what is their present situation. 1 shall feel myself extremely happy if Congress should be satisfied with the steps I have taken. It is seldom that an officer can claim any merit from a retreat, and I am far from laying in a claim of the kind yet it gives

will not attribute

;

me some

our disadvantages, we saved the whole of the publick stores, the baggage of the Army, and left not one of our sick behind us. This I hope will at least convince Congress that we did not retreat The fatigue we had to save our in hurry and confusion. batteaus, cannon, &ic., and get them over the Rapids, was beyond anything that ever I went through, and what was never done by an array in our situation before, and what, I must for my own part, I never wish to attempt again. beg Congress to give some direction about the redemjition of officers, General Thompson, Colonel Irvine, and some other who have fallen into the hands of the enemy. Opposite the Isle-aux-JSoix, Captain McLean, Lieutenants McTierran, McAlister, and Hogg, of Colonel Irvine's Regiment, were taken prisoner by the Indians, and are now, I apprehend, I wish Congress would consent to an exchange at (^uebeck. of prisoners; if they should, I will send a (lag immediately satisfaction that,

under

all

upon the subject. you and the Congress that nothing on my part shall be wanting to prevent the enemy from penetrating the country in this quarter and that lam. with the highest sentiments of respect and esteem, my dear sir, to St. Johns, to treat 1

beg leave

to assure

;

your most obedient servant,

To Hon. John Hancock, To

the

Honourable John Sullivan, Brigadier-General in the Northern Department.

please your Honour: We. the inhabitants of New-Hampshire Grants, being appointed a Committee

]\LvY it

the

77

j^^,^. s,.llivan-.

Esq., President of Congress.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1219 by the

several

your Honour

Towns

in this District, beg leave to address

behalf of our constituents and oui-selves. Army out of Canada, and the news of the savages killing a number of our men on the west side of Lake Champlain ; in consequence of which events, the frontier settlements are removing

We

in

are greatly alarmed at the retreat of our

their families into the country

moving being

;

but the inhabitants thus re-

greatly desirous that the frontier setllemenfe

should be protected, and anxious to return and secure their crops, we earnestly beg and entreat your Honour to send a guard to Onion River, or some other place which your Honour shall think most advantageous to the Army and inare much alarmed on account of our unhabitants.

We

hap])y situation, and would express our great concern for have the invaded liberties of the Colonies in general. a number of good woodsmen, well acquainted with 6re-arms

and should your Honour, in your wisdom, think pro])er and we would immediately raise a battalion of effective men for the defence of the United Colonies, and the frontiers of Neiv-Hampshire Grants in particular. And likewise earnestly desire that your Honour would give orders that our frontier towns, which are destitute, may be supplied with ammunition as your Honour shall think proper. We, the subscribers, have appointed Colonel Thomas Chittenden and Captain Herman Allen to present this Memorial to your Honour, and to act in our behalf.

JULY,

1776.

1220

Onion River, to guard there till I could have your Excellency's and General Schuykr''s opinion. I have sent Congress a written application from these inhabitants for assistance. Doubtless tliey will make some order upon it, which I hope will be that Colonel Warner, of the Green Mountains, shall raise men for that purpose, as 1 think those take post at

men much

better calculated to defend that part of the coun-

any others. I shall now be able to make your Excellency a proper return of men and stores, which shall

try than

be immediately forwarded.

In the interim I remain, with the highest sentiments of respect, your Excellency's most obedient servant, , „

John Sullivan.

To

We

;

&c.,

His Excellency General Washington.

We are in great want of about six or eight fieldwhich beg may be forwarded as soon as may be.

P. S. pieces,

Your Excellency's most obedient

servant,

give leave,

Joseph Wooilward,

Charles Brewster,

Josiah Bowker,

Zebulon Mead,

Thomas Thomas

John Smith,

Elkanah Cook,

Jonathan Faucett,

Joseph Smith,

Tuttle, Rice,

Heber Allen, John Smith, 2J, James Clagliorn, William Post.

Committees of Safety for several Towns in the New-Hampshire Grants.

GENERAL SULLIVAN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Crown

My dear General I have from time to time endeavoured to give your Excellency the earliest intelligence of but the distance is so great our movements in this quarter that we are under necessity of making many without having advice. In my last I mentioned that I your Excellency's should remain with the Army at Isle-aux-]Soix till your Excellency's pleasure could be known. This, I supposed, would serve to cover and protect the inhabitants settled by the Lake till they could remove with their effects, and at the same time give us an opportunity of receiving your Ex:

;

cellency's directions

where

to

make

a stand

;

but, unfortu-

and

such a degree that I was forced to leave that unhealthy place and retire to this, where I hope the Army will We have, 1 think, secured everything, even soon recruit. to an axe, except three cannon at Chamhly, and those not have taken one out of the Lake, a fine very good. twelve-pounder, which in part makes up our loss. 1 am now fortifying this place, and will endeavour to have it as strong as possible, and fix as many galleys to command the Lake as I can. 1 have sent for some person acquainted with those constructed at Philadelphia, that we may have some of that kind built if it is agreeable to your Excellency. I have written General Schuyler for his advice, which hope In the interim I shall be procuring as much soon to receive. timber and boards as possible. of Militia number are ordered here. I don't that a hear 1 but should they be sent, I think them necessary at present wish they may be such as have had the small-pox, as there is no avoiding it in our camp. As the air is pure at this place, and the Army can have fresh provisions and good water, I If they should, sure I am that hope thev will soon recruit. we shall have enough to fortify and hold this place, and at Lieutenant whom I the same time command the Lake. sent to reconnoitre at St. Johns and CliamUy has returned, and says that be counted about one hundred and fifty tents at St. Johns, twenty-five at St. Rays, and fifteen at Chamhly ; and that the Regulars are very busy in fortifying at St. He saw no boats except a canoe and one batteau Johns. He despatched two of his men from St. Johns at Chamhly. I to give me intelligence, who have not since been heard of. fear the Indians have entrapped them. In my route I have given every assistance in my power to remove the frontier inhabitants with their effects, and have ordered Colonel Winds, with a hundred and fifty men, to

men

to

We

;

A

general SULLIVAN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. Isle-aux-Noix, June 24, 1776.

My

DEAR General

:

It is

with the greatest pain

I

inform

you that, after our retreat from Canada to this place, of which I have given your Excellency an account through General Schuyler, and after I had determined to make a stand here till I received your Excellency's order, I find myself under an absolute necessity of quitting this Island for a place more healthy, otherwise the

Army will

never be able to return, as

one fortnight longer in this place will not leave us well men enough to carry off the sick, exclusive of the pubhck stores, which I have preserved thus far. The raging of the smallpox deprives us of whole regiments in the course of a few days, by their being taken down with that cruel disorder. this is not all. The camp disorder rages to such a degree that of the regiments remaining, from twenty to sixty in each are taken down in a day, and we have nothing to give

But

Point, July 2, 1776.

nately, sickness of almost every kind seized both officers

John Sullivan.

them but

and the poisonous waters of this have, therefore, determined, with the unanimous voice of the officers, to remove to Islc-la-Motte, a place

Lake.

salt pork, flour,

I

much more

healthy than

this,

where I have some hope we few men we have till some

shall preserve the health of the

taken respecting our future movements. I think it would be by far the best to remove to Crou'n Point, fortify that, build row-galleys to command the Lake, and by scouting parties to defend our frontiers, as the savages have already begun upon us. They have made two attacks upon our men, killed and taken near twenty, among whom are order

is

some officers. These officers went on shore unarmed, when I was gone to reconnoitre Point-au-Fer. The other party went on shore at river Lecot to buy milk. They were in boats loaded with flour, which they brought

off,

but had

some men killed. The whole of our loss in killed and taken amount to about twenty. This happened in both cases for want of that care which should ever be taken in an enemy's country. I hope it will be a warning to our people in future. I hear from all quarters that the enemy are very numerous Canada. Their shipping is also numerous, and it cannot be doubted that all the Canadians and all the Indians in this This I quarter will be compelled to bear arms against us. know they would gladly have avoided but finding that we are not able to afford them that protection we promised, they are obliged to make their peace in the best manner they can. I think it is now past a doubt that the neglect and inattention to this department has not only lost us Canada, but involved us in a war with all the blacks and whites in this quarter and to check their progress I know of no better method than to secure the important posts of Ticonderoga and Crown Point, and, by building a number of armed vessels, command the Lakes, otherwise the forces now in Canada will be brought down upon us as quick as possible, having nothing now to oppose them in that Colony. They have a number of batteaus framed, which they brought from Three in

;

;

They will doubtless construct some armed vessels, Rivers. and then endeavour to penetrate the country toward Ne^vYork. This I am persuaded they will attempt, but am sure they can never effect, unless we neglect to secure the important posts now in our power. I have written to General Schvyler, and wait with impatience for his answer, as 1 know that no time ought to be lost in fortifying this place or Croion

Point.

If I

attempt to

fortify

here,

and afterwards

am

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS, he, JULY,

1221 orderetl to leave

I shall

it,

1

am

to tarry

as soon as

and

enemy, by prewould not willingly do. If

strenj^then the

paring a work for them, which

I

should be glad to know it may put the order in execution our men grow much more healthy,

fortiiy here, I

possible, that I

;

must say that unless our Army here will be no kind of check upon the enemy after remaining in this low marsh for a few weeks longer. I enclose your Excellency a general return, drawn from since which I the returns made the day before 3'esterday suppose a quarter part have been taken down with the camp disorder. This, however incredible it may seem, is a For instance, Colonel fVayne has sixty, out of one real fact. hundred and thirty-eight, taken down since. Colonel De Haas and all his field-officers, with a number of his men, ara since taken down. This seems to run through the whole, no corps being exempt from it. I am shocked to relate, but much more to see, this dreadful havock among the troops. I enclose your Excellency a return of the ordnance and The whole could stores at Si. Johns on the l'2th instant. not, in our confused state, be procured. As to the provisions, some are on board the armed vessels, some at this place, and some at Isle-la- Mottc, which were never brought further down. I can make no accurate return at present. I will have one made as soon as possible and forward it, and send regular returns in future. I do not despair of getting but this Army yet into some kind of order and regulation must confess that work I it is a of time and trouble, as order and regularity seem to have been strangers in this noi'thern but

I

;

;

Army. I

extremely sorry it was not in my power to fulfil your Excellency's wishes, by leading on our troops to victory. The reasons for my not being able has doubtless long since reached you, in my letters giving an account of the strength of the enemy, the weakness of our Army, and the unhappy defeat of General Thompson at Three Rivers, as also the result of our Council of War in Canada. I think we shall secure all the publick stores and baggage of the Army, and secure our retreat with very litde loss. Whether we shall

have well men enough to carry them on, I much doubt, if we don't remove quickly, unless Heaven is pleased to restore health to this wretched Army, now perhaps the most pitiful one that ever was formed. There is no return of Colonel Patterson's Regiment, as he has but five men here fit for duty, which I this day ordered to Crown Point to join the rest of the regiment, which sick there.

You may

all

ral,

that nothing shall be wanting on

among

my

my

dear Genepart to restore order

assure yourself,

are

the troops here and to recover their health, as also

to throw every stumbling-block in the way of the enemy, that lies in the power of your Excellency's most affectionate

humble

servant,

^ John Sullivan. t

'

His Excellency General Washington.

GENERAL SULLIVAN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. June 25, 1776.

Dear General

This morning, at daybreak, I received extremely your Excellency's favour of the 16th instant. :

Am

mortified to find that e\'erything here has turned out contrary

to

my

expectation and

was not owing

to

my

your Excellency's wishes.

This

being deceived with respect to the

enemy on the ground at the time I wrote, but to the sudden arrival of such a number under General Burgoyne the night before the battle of Three Rivers, of which I have given a full and perfect account in former letters. I am conscious of having done everything in my power to gain the ground our troops had lost, and to secure the retreat of the Army, when I found our point could not be carried. I imagine that General Schuyler forgot to enclose the return, as I think but I am not clear whether it it went from me at the time did not go in a separate letter. I dare say it has reached you before this. 1 now enclose another, which wish safe to hand, and hope to have a more complete and perfect one in a few days, which 1 shall forward to your Excellency. I am well convinced of the necessity of a good understanding being kept up among the officers of the Army. This has been remarkably the case since my arrival. I have not seen an instance to the contrary, except some few reflections which seemed to take place between the northern and ;

1222

hope

I have sufficiently cured by every corps, and requesting them to suppress a thing which, if continued, must weaken, if not They all agreed to join heartily in destroy, the Army. putting an end to this dangerous behaviour among the troops, which I am convinced they did, as I have heard

upon the

calling

nothing of

among

it

I

officers of

since,

and

find

that

harmony takes place

the troops in a surprising manner.

In all our diffibe a unanimity of sentiment amon'-' all the officers. Indeed, I have not known the least dispute among them. Tin; unfortunate General Thompson and the Baron De JVocdtkc and myself, were at Sorel. Never did General Arnold was greater harmony and friendship exist.

culties there

seemed

to

at Montreal, and kept up the most friendly intercourse and correspondence with us, and we with him. It is tnie, I thought the keeping Colonel De Haas from Sorel was wrong, but only supposed it an error in judgment, as I did that of his keeping the forces in too great numbers at the posts up country. This I communicated to him in the most friendly manner, which he accounted for in a way that convinced me that he acted not without some foundation though I think it would have been better had it not been done. Assure yourself, my dear General, that I will exert myself in cultivating harmony and friendship among both officers and soldiers in the Army and that I am, with the most profound respect, your Excellency's most devoted, ;

humble

To this

the

servant,'

o John Sullivan. t

His Excellency General Washington.

P. S.

received your Excellency's favour of the 13th instant.

Am

To

southern troops, which

1776.

The

Brigade-Major and Adjutant of the day have

moment informed me that, while they were parading main guard, four men dropped down under arms, and

appear

like

dead men.

thoughts of losing so

I

to-day remove from

I shall

am

many men

almost distracted with the as daily

go off by sickness.

this infectious

place to Isle-la-

Mottc, which I should have done before now, had not too many of our batteaus gone forward with the sick to Crown Your Excellency's most obedient servant, Point. J.

Sullivan.

GOVERNOUR TRUMBULL TO GENERAL SCHUYLER. Lebanon, July

2,

1776.

Sir: Your favour of 25th of June is received. Some Yet strange fatality seems to attend our northern Army. our comfort and matter for rejoicing is the same that the Lord reigns. I trust our Army is able to keep the navigaThis is the critical time when every tion of the Lake. Agreeable to your nerve must be strained for our security. request, without loss of time expresses were sent to JS'orwich and Middletown. Captain J. Winsloio came to me yesterday. I furnished him with an agreement and fifty pounds in cash, which you will see by the enclosed copy. 1 have taken measures, which I hope will prove acceptable, in the best manner to promote the undertaking of good men This day Captain Jonathan Lester came for the service. I have transacted with him in the same manner as to me. doubt not they will begin thek march for other. I the Albany the beginning of, or in all next week. The former had encouragement from ten men, before he came to me the latter from fifteen. Doubt not they will engage the men I promised both the head carpentei-s to recommend soon. it to you to make them some further allowance for their extra trouble and charge in raising the men, which appears



I trust you will find them submen, very suitable for your purpose. The forces raising for the Northern Department are forwardthey will begin their march by parties. ing with diligence The Brigadier-General Watcrbury will be with you soon. I have given diroute is ordered in manner you directed. rections concerning the prisonere mentioned in youre. There one the son of Captain are two or three young persons Lester, the other belonging to Captain Winsloiv, and another recommend to your I would whom to a good workman notice and a suitable allowance. Cleansing the Army from

to

me

highly reasonable.

stantial, valuable, skilful

;





the infection of the small-pox is of the utmost importance. Let me know, by Certainly it is not difficult to be done. firet opportunity, the measures taken for that purpose. I am, with great truth and regard, sir, your obedient,

Jonathan Truubull.

humble

servant,

To

Hon. Major-General Schuyler.

the

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1223

CONNECTICUT COUNCIL OF SAFETY. At a meeting of tlie Governour and Council of Safety, at Lebanon, Tuesday, July 2, 1776: Present His Honour the Governour, Eliphelct Dyar, Jabcz Huntington, ft'illtam IViUiams, Titus Hosmer, Jeremiah ElJerkin, Nathaniel Wales, fVilliam HiUhouse, and Benjamin Huntington, Esquires. :

Considered the price at which Gunpowder at our Mills should be sold, when disposed of, &,c.; and allowed and voted, that, for the present, the price be fixed at 5s. 4d.

One Major Griswold and Captain Marsh are present, Committee from Lebanon, Hartford, &,c., and twelve Towns in the Cohoss, so called, pressing for Powder, &ic., a

under

their

apprehensions from Canada. &,c.

Voted, That they be allowed to receive and purchase at Elderkin i^ JVaks^s Mill, eight hundred pounds of Gun-

powder,

at the rate of 5s. 4c/., as

agreed on,

for

cash or good

security, payable in a short time.

and that they may receive at the Furnace ISliddktown one thousand pounds of Lead, at the price

Order given

he, JULY,

1776.

1224

of June last, laid before them by his Honour the Governour, informing of his having certain advice that a Fleet of one

hundred and thirty sail left Halifax the 9th ultimo, bound for A'ew- I'orA:, and that General 7/okt was then already arrived at the Hook, and pressing, in the most earnest manner, that not one moment's time may be lost in sendini^ forward the Militia of this Colony, Sic. and considering ;

also the contents of several Letters very lately received from

honourable President of the Continental Congress, urging the same thing in strong and pressing terms ; considering also that the several Battalions of Militia ordered the

General Assembly to be raised for the relief and Army at New-York, by inevitable dilKculties of preparation, are not, and it is feared cannot be ready so as to arrive at New-York seasonably for the expected attack of the enemy, and, should that be the case, the event may prove fatal to the cause o( American liberty, which this

by the

last

support of the

continent has so long struggled with great zeal and expense to support and defend, in this critical situation no efforts



can be too great, and nothing should be unattempted which at may tend to strengthen and serve a cause on which the all Qd., of as below. of America depends And Voted, That the price of Lead for the present be It is, therefoie. Resolved and Ordered, by this Board, Qd. per pound and orders given accordingly to Griswold That the diree Regiments of Light-Horse, lately established, and Marsh. and on the west side of Connecticut River, be, and they are On Application from Blanford, &ic. hereby, ordered and directed forthwith to set forward and Voted, That Mr. Samuel Dunn, applying in behalf of march to New-York, well equipped and furnished, for the said Town, may be supplied by Colonel Fitkin, at his Mill assistance and succour of the Army there, and to be under at Hartford, with sixty -seven pounds of Gunpowder the the command of the Conmiander-in-Chief in that departsaid Dunn paying for the same at the rate of 5s. 4d. per ment to remain till such time as the Battalions ordered by pound said Fitkin to receive and account for the same. the General Assembly for that service shall arrive, and no (Order given, and delivered said Dunn.) longer than the General Assembly shall judge necessary, And as an encourageCaptain Jonathan Lester's Account, for building the and they can be orderly dismissed. Row-Galley Shai-k, amounting to £861 16s. 6},d., in the ment to their ready exertion and services, the said Troops whole, having been inspected and examined by a sub-Com- may expect such reasonable pay, wages, and allowance, as mittee at Hartford, is now allowed. He had received by the honourable Continental Congress, or the General Assembly, in their wisdom and justice, shall appoint and allow; orders from this Board £100, £300, and £4, of B. H, Esq. The balance, being £455 5s. 1 l^d., is ordered now and they need not fear but the same will be just and satisfactory. to be drawn for. (Order given, and delivered said Lester.) And it is further Resolved and Ordered, That the sum of Voted, That an Order be drawn on the Committee of Pay-Table in favour of Captain Jonathan Lester, for the £1000 be advanced out of the publick Treasury, to assist them in their march, and to be accounted for on settlement sum of £50, as so much advance pay for him and a Company of twenty-five Carpenters, now raising under him, at of their Pay-Roils and that the same be put into the hands of Lieutenant-Colonel Seymour, to be properly disthe request of General Schuyler, to be employed at or about ;

;

;

;

;

;

Crown Foint,

in

building Batteaus, &c., fee, and to be re-

funded by said General (Order given.)

in

behalf of the Congress.

Voted, That a quantity of Lead, belonging to Jonathan Kilbourn, Esq., of Colchester, by him made use of on the water-wheel of his said Mill, shall not be taken from him for the use of the publick until actually wanted, and then to be taken by the Selectmen, without further orders. (Order given him accordingly.)

Voted, That five hundred pounds of Gunpowder be deand ordered for the use of the Town of Fairfield,

livered

be received of Mr. iV. Shaw, at NewLondon, and to be by them accounted for to the Governour and Company of the Colony. (Order given. Delivered to Captain Eliphelet Thorp, present.)

on

tributed for that purpose.

And

^

jj

Voted and Resolved, That LieutenantColonel Thom.as Seymour, chief officer of said Regiment of Light- Horse in the absence of Colonel SiUiman, be, and he is hereby, ordered and directed to transmit necessary orders for the purposes hereof to the several Majors of said Regiments, and other proper officers, and to use his utmost efforts, in conjunction with them, to hasten the preparation and march of said Troops, and to lead and conduct them, under their other proper officers, in and for the service aforesaid. it

further

is

Adjourned

until

to-morrow morning.

their request, to

Voted, That Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Mott be appointed Colonel of the First Battalion raising for the northern service, in the room of Colonel John Douglass, resigned. Voted, That Major Oliver Smith be Lieutenant-Colonel of the Regiment at Neiv-London, instead of Colonel Mott,

promoted and that Captain John Ely be Major of said Regiment, in the room of Lieutenant-Colonel Smith, promoted. Voted, That Major Giles Russell, of Colonel Sheldon's Regiment, be Lieutenant-Colonel of Colonel Sage's Regiment, instead of Lieutenant-Colonel Danielson, resigned. Voted, That Captain Waterman Cleft be Major of Colonel Sheldon's Regiment, in the room of Major Russell, promoted to be Lieutenant-Colonel of said Regiment. Voted, That Captain Edivard Mott be appointed Major of Colonel Gay's Regiment, in the room of Major Gallup, ;

resigned.

A Resolve for ordering

three

Regiments of Horse, &c.

This Board, taking into consideration the contents of a Letter from his Excellency General Washington, of the 28th

Wednesday, July

3,

1776.

Governour and Council met. day.

Many

Present the same as yesterthings considered, &ic., and persons coming in.

Voted, An Order of £1000 on the Pay-Table, in favour of Colonel T. Seymour, to be divided and improved to assist the march of the Regiments of Horse, ordered to Neiv-

York, as yesterday.

(The Order drawn and

sent.)

Letters prepared and sent to General Schuyler, in answer to his requesting Carpenters, &c., &c. Lettere and Ordei-s to Colonel Seymour, relating to the

Regiment of Horse, and necessary

directions,

he.

Sent

per General Schuyler's Post. Letters to General JVashington,'m('ovn\\ng of the measure

of sending the Troo|)s of Hoi-se missary Trumbull, 8ic.

;

to

Colonel Silliman,

Com-

Letters of Marque, &tc., prepared for Captain Thorp, present, part owner of the Privateer Broome.

An Account of Ebenezcr Ledyard, Esq., and Mr. Park Avery, a Committee who built the Fort at Groton, laid in, examined, and adjusted, and allowed thereon the sum of £265 7s. 9d., in discharge thereof. And Voted, That an Order be drawn Ledyard.

and delivered Mr.

M •

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1225 On

application of Captain

George

Voted, That one hundred and fifty pounds of Powder be delivered the Selectmen of Killingworth, hy Mr. Shaw, they paying him for the use of the Colony at the rate of 5s. 4d. per potind, and said Shaw to account with the Colony

able price, in behalf of the Colony, rendering their account "^ such sale, and how they shall execute this order to his "0"°"^. ' i« Governour, as soon as may be ; and also ad-

Delivered Captain George Elliott.)

Voted, (on application by Lieutenant John Milk, Commander of the parly stationed at Black-Rock Fort at FairfiM for and on account of Billeting, premium for Guns, Blankets, &c., first month's pay and wages of his said party,) viz: That an Order be drawn on the Pay-Table on the

above Account,

for the

sum of £200,

to

be accounted

for

Champmn Deputy Commissary, when they remove such stock that he may purchase such part of the vising Colonel

(Copy

Powder-Mill. it

fit

and proper

for

the use of the

Army,

till

Thursday, July

1776.

to-morrow morning.

Met according

to

4,

adjournment, present the same as yes-

terday.

The Governour

received Letters last night from General

Schuyler, Mr. Trumbull, &ic.

verbally, Stc.

Oliver Coit is appointed Captain of a Company at NewWilliam in the room of Edward Mott, promoted Lieutenant, _ _ in room of said Coit ; William Latham First ^ mitney Second Lieutenant of said Company, in room of

London,

said

be

sent by Colonel Smith.)

Adjourned

Ordered, That Colonel Jabez Huntington send to Mr. Nathaniel Shaw, o( New-London, one ton of the Cannon Powder lately ordered to his care from Elderkin ^ JVales's present, received

may

^^me^ as

on

settlement of the Pay-Roll of said Company or party. (An Order drawn, and delivered said Lieutenant Mills.)

He

1226

1776.

;

therefor n-iven.

JULY,

main, leaving necessary working Oxnn, Cows, Sheep, and Swine, for the use of the families there, at their discretion ; that they cause them to he appraised by indifferent, judicious men, under oath, at their present just value in money; that the amount of such appraisment he paid out of the Colony Treasury to the owner or owners of said stock and that ^Y,



1776.

Southampton

Continued.

1242

—Continued.

NAMES or THE H^ADS or FAMILIES.

NAMES OF THE HEADS OP FAMILIES.

lis is-:

Nathan Reeves Ebenezer Culver John Reeves David Reeves Stephen Reeves, Jun. Thomas Coper, Esq Caleb Cooper Stephen Rogers

BenjainiQ Cooper Kbenezer Fnger James Fager John Fager Nathaniel Fager Samuel Fager Samuel Fager, Jun Elias Peirson Josiali

Fager

Heniy

Post

Timothy Pierson Abraham Fordem John White, Jun John White David Rainer John Fowler Joseph L'Hommedieu... William Jones Zebulon Howell Eleanor Jacobs, Widow..

Stephen Fager, Jun Joshua Sayrs Ichabod Sayrs Elias Foste r

John Post, Jun James Post

,

Joseph Post Jeremiah Post Isaac Post, Esq Joseph Post, Jun John B ushop John Bushop, Jun

Elias Pelletrean

Widow Zeruiah Huntin Isaac Halsey

Daniel Harris Joseph Marshel

Samuel Bushop James Busliop Joseph Fager Widow Ruih Smith

Zebulon Cooper

James Culver James Halsey Moses Halsey

Stephen Jesup

Lemuel Howell Timothy Bushop

Isaiah Halsey

John Bushop Isaac Smith John Jesup John Jesup, Jun EInathan Topping Jonah Bower

Silas

,

Halsey

Henry Smith

Widow Hannah

-

Halsey..

David Howell Stephen Howell Samuel Howell

Widow Charity Albertson Jonathan Russell Dan iel Foster Stephen Fordem

Christopher Foster Nathan Foster Samuel Jones

Widow

Deborah Parnai

Timothy Howell Gershom Culver, Jun.

William Rainer Cal7in Coock Phiueas Fordem Grant Bower Jame^ Rogers Jonah Halsey Jesup,

,

David Burnet Joseph Burnet Matihew Sayrs

Cornelius Halsey William Stephens

Thomas

...

..

William Culver

Gershom Culver Ichabod Sayrs, Jun Samuel Howell, Jun...

Jun

Henry Jesup Captain Josiah Howell. Jonathan Coock Captain John Post. Josiah Foster Nathan Herrick

..

Stephen Post Obadiah Jones Captain David Howell. Major Uriah Rogers.. .. Jeremiah Rogers John Halsey

George Mackee

Matthew Howell Ehsha Howell

Thomas Stephens Thomas Stephens, Jun.

Luess Howell John Howell, 3d Elias Cooper Major George Herrick Daniel Bu^hop Jonas Foster James 8 rusher

Michaiah Herrick Silvanus Howell David Macker Silas Howell HughGelston

Lemuel Mapes Simeon Babcock Ellis

Isaac Lishone Isaac Penny J

un

Josiah Goodel John Alberson

Jeremiah Haman Hugh Rainer Elihu Rayner Stephen Fager, Esq Nathaniel Howell Bethiah Babcock Henry Lu Ham. Stephen Rogers Daniel Brusier

Widow Hannah Smith Jeremiah Culver Silas

Ludlam

Thomas

.

Thomas Jesup Nathan Fager, Jun Royal Howell Jedediah Howell Obadiah Howell Stephen Rayner Gideon Fordem

Squiar

James Fanning

David Morrow,

.

Norris

William Phillips

James Norris Joseph Rogers Silas Philienger Jacob Or^born

John Tutiel Jes;e Culver Moses C ul ver Obadiab Foster Zephaniah Culver Prudence Foster Joseph Sayrs John Reeves, Jun Jeremiah Culver, Jun Ebenezer Howell Jonah Howell Jonah Howell Christopher Lupton

Adonijah Rainer Obadiah Rogers Zephaniah Rogers Nemiah Sayrs Abraham Sayrs Widow Jane Bell Rose. Samuel Clark Elisha Clark Charles WoUey Silvanus Jennings William Jennings Elias Jennings John Lum

David Hayns Foster. Samuel Jennings, Jun.. Samuel Jennings James Jennings John Hulson John Williamson Henry Harris Henry Harris, Jun .

Joseph Rug Stephen Jennings

Anthony Hayne Bethuel Reeves

David Rose Jason Scott George Harris John Harris

2 1

John Hayns Zebulon Jennings

3 ,

I

Southampton, July 22, 1776 —Then appeared before me Hugh Getston, and declared that the with] n list of inhabitants of the town abovesaid, westward of a place called he Jf'atermilh is a true list.

THO.M.^S COOPER, Chairman.

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1243

&c.,

JULY,

1776.

Easthampion

si Daniel Wheeler Jacob Baker Jeremiah Terry

Zebulon Hoinan William iVlorris James IVlorris James JVIorris, Jun Obadiah Green John Green William Terry John Edward IMoiibray Smith Micah Wheeler

Widow

Bigs

Cahb Wood William Smilh BenajahStiong Jacob WiUets, Jun Jacob WilleLs, Sen Zebulon Saxton John Moubray Israel Howell Nathaniel Smith Plat Smith Joshua Buffet David Willets John Scudder Isaac

Thompson

Ebenezer Bower Caleb Saxton William Nicol James Smith Richard WiUets Jacob WilleUi, 2d Adonijah Underbill Joseph Udale Lindley Murray Jacob Dow Jonathan Burch Nathaniel Oakley

Samuel Mussey Jesse Rogers

Samuel Carmen Isaac Noaks Timothy Whelor Thomas Whelor Caleb Newton Timothy Smith Silas Smith Joseph Blidenburgh Joseph Blidenburgh, Jun..

John Hudson

The

total

sum

Taken I,

19

by me:

JOHN IWOWBRAY.

John Mowbray, do swear that the aforegoing

list

contains a true

account of the number of inhabitants within the District of County of Suffolk, in the Colony oi J^Te-w-York, according to the best information that I have been able to obtain by applying at each dwelling-house, and by all other ways and means in my power, within the said District.

and

faithful

Islip, in the

^^^^ MOWBR.W.

Sworn

to before

me

:

June 26, 1776.

Easthampton.

NAMES OF THE HEADS OF FAMILIES.

ISAAC THOMSON.

—Continued.

1244

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1245

Easthampton

Naihan Hand

ElishaConkling Matihew Osborn Benjamin Hopping. Zebedee Osborn Klisha Osborn

.

...

Mrs. Elizabeth Osborn, Matthew Davis Jonathan Squier

Hand

Jeremiah

James Hand

EnosTalmage John Talmage George Stronge

Widow Hannah

Miller...

Stephen Edwards Jolin Strong

Abraham Conkling Jedediah Osborn Mary Osborn

Law

Eunice Ezekiel

Hand

Gulielmus Miller Jacob Miller Jeremiah Talmage Experience Hand Abigail

Hand

Henry Hopping Patrick Goold Edward Jones

EzekielJones Ezekiel Jones, Jr

John Hancks

Abraham Diamond Isaac Diamond John Miller Lieutenant John Miller.,

Abraham Hand Captain John Dayton Daniel Daylon Stephen Stratton

... ;

., ,

Matthew

Stratton Parsons, Jr

Juhn John Parsons, 3d

Edward Wick John Parsons, 5th William Multord Elisha Davis Captain John Davis ... Benjamin Stratton* Jeremiah Par>ons Mrs. Abigail Dayion. .. Henry Hopping, Jr Mulford Conkling Ludlam Parsons

Rob

It

Shetfield

Zopher Wood Josiah Carey Joseph Conkling William Gagger

Nancy Gardiner Ananias Conkling Joseph Conkling, Jr Clark Trooinon John Hand David Russel William Soper Amos Soper Eiias

Hand

John Gavett Ebenezer Hedges Isaac Vanscoy Samuel Ringer Jeremiah Terry Joshua Larkin Nathaniel Domini

Henry Dominy Juhn Field Jeremiah Bennit

,

Joseph Edwards Zebulon Bennit

James Field John Lester John Parsons, 4th John Parsons

Widow Hannah

Miller

David Miller Elisha Miller Gamaliel Bennit Edward Bennit Richard King Daniel King

David Talmage Timothy Miller William Eyre George Miller Stephen Cooper Stephen Cooper,

Jr.

Benjamin Hedges Philip Hedges Jacob Hand

JULY,

. .

1776.

Easthampton

NAMES OP THE BEADS OF FAMILIES.

NAMES OF TH'J HEADS OP FAMILIES,

Joseph Hicks Lieui. I^aac Hunting.

—Continued

&tc.,



Continued.

1246

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1247

Smithtovon



fcc,

JULY,

—Continued.

Continued.

Southold

NAMES OF THE HEADS OF FAMILIES.

NAMES OF THE BEADS or FAMILIES.

Joseph Smith Gersbom Smith Edmund Smith, Jun Floyd Smith Lemuel Smith Jonas Mills Jacob Mills

Abijah Cordy Joseph Hallicok B:irnabas Hortou

Isaac Mills

Ellon Overton Nathaniel Overton Daniel Terry

John DIckersoii John Overton, Jun John Overton Isaac Overton

Jonathan Mills

Timothy Mills Benjamin Gould

Zaccheus Goldsmith Abijah Winds Joshua Reeves

William Biggs Jonathan L'Hommedieu. Mary Biggs SilasBiggs Benjamin JNewton Merrit Smith Abigail Ward

Widow

..

.

Elsebeih

John Halliok Jonathan Wells Barnabas Horion Nathaniel Overton

JamesOverion 35

109

14

156

118

91

70



Smithtown, June

25, 1776. This day personally appeared John Su-atton before me, and gave oath that the foregoing list contains a true account of the inhabitants of the Town aforesaid.

EPENETUS SMITH,

Chairman.

Selah Dickerson Jasper Cordy Ezekiel Petty

Stephen Alld'ritch Nathaniel Conkling .... David Cleeves Silas

Southold.

NAMES OF THE HEADS OF FAMILIES.

Parker Wickham. . . Silas

Moore

Thomas Webb Nathan Goldsmith. John Horion Thomas Wells Joshua Tuthill James Reeve Joseph Reeve Wells Terry

..

Honnery Brown, Jun. Phineas Beckwiih John Williamson Honnery Brown Biah Cleeves Timothy Corwin Israel Youngs Honnery Tuthill

..

William Brown James Wells

Thomas Reeves, Jun. Peter Osman

JVIaker

..

Rulus Tuthill

Jonathan Horion

ElveuHorton Joshua Salmon Joshua Salmon, Jun.. Joshua Goldsmith Joshua Case

Thomas

Benjamin Goldsmilh... Jonathan Vail. Phineas Fanning James Morison

Cravet Wells John Claike Ebenezer Sopers

James Webb

Thomas

Joshua Cleeves Thomas Conkling

Francis Forneir

Wells, Jun..

Terry John Wells Jojhua Benjamin Andrew Hart William Howell Daniel Terry William Wells Benjamin Pain Samuel Cox Joshua Wells David Wells David Hedges Jonathan Salmon

James Petiy Daniel Warner Honnery Moore

Reuben Brown James Fanning Samuel Brown Isaac Reeves

Joshua Goldsmith

Timothy Gershom Timothy Gershom

Corwin

Benjamin Conkling Joshua Hobart James Maclere Sylvanus Brown Jonathan Dimon Jonathan Corwin

Widow Corwin ..

Goldsmith...

David Goldsmith DavidHedges, Jun... Abner Wells Israel Reeves Elijah Terry Joshua Terry....*.... Daniel Conkling John Goldsmith John Goldsmith, Jun.. Benjamin Wells Edward Pennie JoshuaBillard Moses Case Gilbert Case Abraham Davids Gershom Case Edward Pennie Ichabod Case Benjamin Case Sylvanus Davis

Warren Youngs Samuel Beebe William King James King William King, Jun Jedediah Corwin Stephen Vail Stephen Vail, Jun Jonathan Terry

Widow Terry Grover Glover Jeremiah Vail John Terry Jonathan King Joseph King Joseph Petty

,

;.

Thomas Terry John Tuthill Major Barnabas Tuthill.. Jeremiah King ,

PelerTulhill..

Benjamin King Jeremiah Tuthill.. Joseph Youngs Robert Harley

Z -buli.n King

Samuel Corwin Benjamin Case, Jun. Nathaniel Corwin....

Thomas Hutchingson William Case Jonathan Jennings.... Nathaniel Goldsmith..

Daniel TuihTll Nathaniel King Joseph Teriy Asa King..

Gideon Youngs Ezekiel Glover Jonathan Youngs, Jun.. AValter

Youngs

Fragist Wells

Jonathan Youngs

Case Ebenezer Jennings. Joshua Overton John Drake Hezekiah Jennings.

James

Israel

.

Grilling Peter Griffing

Stephen Vail ..

1776.

Lester Beebe Lester

Thomas

1248

CORRESPONDENCE, PROCEEDINGS,

1249

fee,

JULY,

1776.

—Continued.

—Continued.

Souihold

SouthoM

NAMES OF THE HEADS Of KAMJLIES. 's County, under bonds filed in the Provincial Cong-ress. Daniel Kissani, Gilbert Van Wyek, John Willett, David Brooks, Charles Hicks, John Townshend, John Polhemus, Benjamin Whitehead, Thomas Smith, John Shoals, Samuel .Martin, Nathaniel Moore, Samuel Hallett, William Waynman.



NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1367

employed

In Queen's County Charles Arden,

John Moore,

In Westchester

David Bcatlj, oi Hempstead.

Sen.,

County

Frederick Phillips, Caleb Morgan, Nathaniel Underhill,

Samuel

Joshua Purdy,

Absalom Gidney,

James Horton, Jun., William SuUon, William Barker.

Merrill,

Peter Come, Peter Huggeford,

Which said Cominittee are hereby authorized and required impartially to inquire and determine whether any, and which of the said persons, have afforded aid or sustenance to the British Fleets or Armies, contrary to the Resolutions of the Continental Congress, or of the Provincial Congress, or Committee of Safety of this Colony, or been active in dissuading any of the Inhabitants of this Colony from associating for the defence of the United Colonies against the unjust claims and hostile attacks of the British Parliament, decried the value of the Continental money, and endeavoured to prevent its currency, contrary to the Resolutions of the Continental Congress, or Provincial Congress, or Committee of Safety of the Colony, or been concerned or actually engaged in ^y schemes to retard or oppose the measures now pursuing by the United Colonies for their defence against the tyrannical and cruel attacks of the British Ministry, or their allies, adherents, or agents. That all such of the said persons as shall be found by the

Committee to be innocent of the said offences, be immediately discharged ; and that a certificate of such acquittal, and of the true light In which they may respectively appear to the said Committee, under the hands of the said Committee, be given by them to the said several persons so acquitted ; and that they also report to this Congress the said

names of the persons so

acquitted, that the

same may be

entered on their Journals, and published, to the end that the reputation of such innocent persons may not suflir or be injured by their having been so arrested. Provided, never-

That

theless,

appear said

if

the said persons so to be acquitted should

in a suspicious light to the said

Committee proceed against them

after prescribed for their

Committee, that the

in

the

manner

herein-

conduct against persons of a suspi-

such of the said persons as the Committee shall find guilty of all or any of said offences, the said Committee are hereby authorized and required to commit to safe custody all such of them whose going at laro-e would, in their opinion, endanger the safety of the Colony or the liberties of America ; and that they discharge the remainder of them on their giving bond, with good security, to the President of the Provincial Congress for the time with respect to

all

being, by name, to cease and forbear all opposition to the resolutions and measures of the Continental Congress, or

Committee of Safety of this Colony, defence of the United Colonies against the unjust claims and hostile operations of the British Rlinistry to enProvincial Congress, or for the

force them.

And in case it should appear to the said Committee inexpedient that any of the said persons should continue to dwell at his usual place of residence, that then diey do assign to such person or persons another place of residence in this or one of the neighbouring Colonies, and take his or their parole, or

deemed

word of honour

the said business with

in

little

trouble to them-

selves and with greater prospect of success

Resolved, therefore, That the said Committee be, and they hereby are, authorized to confer with the Commander-inChief of the said troops, and to request of him such detachments of them as may be necessary for the purpose aforesaid and that he give order that the said detachments while so employed be under the direction of the said Committee, or of discreet persons to be by them appointed Provided, never;

:

theless.

That

the said

Committee

employ such detachments of the

empowered

are hereby

Militia as they

may

to

think

expedient for the purpose aforesaid. And whereas there may be, and doubtless are, in other Counties of this Colony, divers dangerous persons at present

unknown

to this Congress: Resolved, That it be recommended to the Committees of all the Counties in this Colony to be vigilant, and use their utmost endeavours from time to time to discover and summon or apprehend them, and treat them in like manner as is hereinbefore prescribed with respect to the persons

hereby ordered to be arrested, and to report their proceedings therein to the Congress of this Colony for the time being. And whereas it may often happen that the Committees of Towns and other Districts in a County may discover many dangerous persons whom it would be proper immediately to secure, in which case an application to the County Committee would not only be attended with great delay, but would also afford such dangerous persons an opportunity to escape Resolved, therefore, That the said Committees of the different Towns and Districts in the several Counties of this Colony be, and they hereby are, authorized and required to cause all persons whom they may esteem dangerous and disafl'ected, to appear before them, either by arrest or summons, as the said Committee, in their discretion, may think proper, and take from the said persons respectively good and sufficient security to appear before the General Committee of the County at such time and place as they shall order him to attend, and then and there to answer such matters as shall before the said General Committee be alleged against him and on refusal to give such security, to commit to safe custody the said person or persons so refusing, until the then next meeting of the said General Committee with whom the accusation against the said dangerous and disaffected person or persons ought forthwith to be lodged by the Committee of the Town or District by whom they may

;

or

sufficient, other security to

they should not be abide there, and not

if

be apprehended, summoned, or committed as aforesaid. And whereas there is in this Colony divers persons who, by reason of their holding offices from the King of Great Britain, from their having neglected or refused to associate with their fellow-citizens for the defence of their common rights, from their having never manifested by their conduct a zeal for and attachment to the American cause, or from their having maintained an equivocal neutrality, have been considered by their countrymen in a suspicious light, whereby it hath becorne necessary, as well for the safety as for the satisfaction of the people, who, in times so dangerous and critical, are naturally led to consider those as their enemies who widihold from them their aid and influence Resolved, That the following persons, w ho are generally supposed to come under the above description, to wit In the City and

without license from this or a future Congress and in case of refusal to give such parole and security, to commit him or them to safe custody.

leave

1368

;

cious and equivocal character.

And

1776.

it

And whereas it may happen that the said Committee may be informed of other dangerous persons not herein named, whom it would be expedient and necessary to summon or apprehend Resolved, That the said Committee be, and they hereby are, authorized and required to cause such persons to be summoned or apprehended, as they may think proper, and proceed against them in the same manner as is hereinbefore directed with respect to the persons herein particu-

to

named. And whereas employing detachments of the Militia of diis Colony, in arresting the said persons will not only be expensive, but the asseinbling of them may alarm the suspicions of the said persons and their adherents, and thereby and as the tend to defeat die design of these Resolutions Continental troops quartered in and near the said three Counties of New-York, Queen's, and Richmond, may be

larly

;

County of Neiv- York

De Lancey,

Charles Nicoll, Charles W. Apthorpe, Gerard Walton, Donald McLean, William Smith,*

Oliver

;





Koberl Bayard, Peler (iraham, Peter Van Shaack,



The following Letter is said to have been 10, 1776. sent to General Ho-we, in America, from a Member of the Council at J^-ew-York

London, June :

NEw-YonK, May

II, 1776.

doubt of my last letters to Administration convincing them that this City and Province is the only apol in America (ot carrying on the war with effect against the Rebels, and that in consequence the forces expected this spring, as well as those now under your command, will be ordered hither; it may be necessary and advisable to send the Army through the Sound, between Connecticut and Long-Island, Of the latter, it will be proper to give a description It is one hundred and thirty miles long, is very fertile, abounding in wheat and every innumerable black cattle, sheep, hogs, &c.; is very other kind of corn populous and Suffolk County in particular, as well as the other parts of it, all good and loyal subjects, of which they have lately given proof, and The Island has a plain only wait to be assisted by the King's troops. on it at least twenty-four miles long, which has a fertile country about it ; is twenty miles from the city oi M'e-w-York ; Connecticut opposite to it ; J\'e-w-Jersey about thirty miles distant ; Philadelphia one bundled and ten Maryland one hundred and thirty; Rhode-Island one hundred and so that in this fertile Island the Army can subsist without fifty miles

Sir

:

As

I

have not

a

:

;

;

;

;

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1369 John Harris Crugcr, James Jauncev, Jun., William Axtcll, Goldsbrow Banyar, George Brewerton,

Charles McEvers,

Andrew

Benjamin Hupget, William McAdam, John Crugcr, Jacob Walton,

David Matthews, John Watts, Jun., Thomas Jones

Elliot,

niittec that they, or

In

Benjamin

t*'eaman,

Christopher Billop

County

Gabriel Ludlow, Samuel Martin, Thomas Jones,

George Folliot, Samuel Doughty,

Benjamin Whitehead,

Daniel Ki»sam,

John Shoals,

Archibald Hamilton, David Colden, Richard Colden, George D. Ludlow, Whilehead Hicks, Samuel Clowes,

Gilbert

Van Wyck,

Thomas

Smith,

Nathaniel Moore,

John Willett,

Samuel

David Brooks, Charles Hicks, John Tovvnsend,

William Weyman, Thos. Hicks, at liock-

John Polhemus,

Benjamin Lester

Hallett,

a-way,

County

In Wcsl Chester

Solomon Fowler,

which

them whom they shall so adbe friends, shall be forthwiih discharged, and a cerunder the bands of the said Committee, given

them, and their names forthwith reported to this ConTess, end that the same may be entered on their Journals and published, and justice thereby done to their characters and reputations. And it is further Resolved, That all such of the said persons as the said Committee shall not adjudge and determine to be friends of the American cause, the .said Committee be, and they hereby are, required to treat and dispose of in the following manner, to wit That such of them as may be men of influence in the neighbourhood of the place ol' their present residence, be removed to such place in this or a neighbouring Colony as will deprive them of an opportunity of exerting that influence to the prejudice of the American cause, and respectively

bound by

Richard Morris

such other persons of the like character as the said Committee may think proper, to be summoned by the said Committee to appear before diem at such time and place as they shall appoint, then and there to show cause, if any they have, why they should be considered as friends to the American cause, and as of the number of those who are ready to risk their lives and fortunes in defence of the rights and liberties oi America, against the usurpation, unjust claims, and cruel oppressions of the British Parliament,

and also

to

and which unjust claims and cruel oppressions, are specified and stated in divers Addresses, Petitions, and Resolutions of the present and late Continental Congress and in default of appearance, the said Committee, on proof made of the service of the said summons, are authorized and directed to cause them to be arrested and brought before them by warrant, under their hands, directed to any Militia Officer in this Colony, who is hereby required and

liberties,

word of honour, or other security, of the said Committee, neither directly nor

their parole or

at the discretion

all

rights

either of them, are friends to the

that such of

to the

John Rapalye;

Richmond County

In (Queen's

judge

any or

1370

tificate thereof,

In King's County Aug. Van Cortlandt,

American cause,

1776.

oppose or contravene the measures of the ConCongress of tliis Colony, and to place and within the limits to be assigned them, till die further order of the present or future Provincial Congress, or Continental Congress and in case they shall refuse to give such parole or other security, to commit them to indirectly to

tinental Congress, or the

abide

in the

;

safe custody.

And as to such of the said persons whose removal, in the judgment of the said Committee, shall not appear necessary, that the said Committee do cause them to be respectively bound with such security, by parole or otherwise, as the said Committee shall deem necessary, neither directly nor indi-

;

execute the same.

to

And

if,

persons,

it

on the appearance and examination of the said shall appear to the satisfaction of the said Com-

any succour from Britain or Ireland, and in five or six days invade and reduce any of the above Colonies at pleasure. Add to these great advantages, that the possession of the JVarro-ws and jYutlen-Island would be the destruction of this city but of this I think there would be no need, ;

with the Crown, particularly Members of the Assembly; but as the mob now commands, prudence forbids them to declare without a military force. You have many with you who are well act^uainted with the navigation of the Sound. The spot which I advise you to land at is Cow-Bay. W. Smith. for all the principal inhabitants are at heart all

my

brethren the

TO THE PRINTER OF THE CONNECTICUT GAZETTE.

Dobb's Ferry, September

19, 1776.

Mr. Grern As I understand you have republished a letter paper which was reprinted from a J^ondon paper, and said to be ;

in

your

written

by the Honourable IVitUam Smith, Esq., I beg leave to inform you that it is a forgery, and I doubt not was written by some of the Refugees in England, with a view to render Mr. Smith's situation as disagreeable as their own was. The letter will not prejudice Mr. Smith in the opinion of those who know him hut the natural and just jealousy of the times may lead those who are unacquainted with him to form an unjust idea ;

of him I doubt not, therefore, that, in justice to injured innocence, you will publish the following extract from a letter written by Mr. Smith respecting the letter above-mentioned, and insert a paragraph requesting the Printers who have already publisheJ or may yet publish the forgery, ;

to print this too. I

am,

sir,

It is

Ebenezer Hazard.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THE HON. WILLIAM SMITH,

ESQ.

The artlessness of the the 8th of^iugitst,

is

author of the letter in the Baltimore Journal, of very apparent. Indeed, as the forgery was contrived

England, he could not know of my removal from jYe-w-Yurh on the 29th oS March. You will observe that the printed letter is dated there the 1 Ith of..1/u^, and that the writer supposes himself a Member of the Assembly. I have not been in town since .March, and never was in the Assembly. These mistakes in personating me, render the fraud manifest. There are other marks of it. No man who knows me will imagine that, after my asserting, in the history of J\i'e-.o-Y(irk, (page 20,) that LangIsland was one hundred and twenty miles long and Hempstead Plain but sixteen, will suppose me the informer that the Island is one hundred and thirty miles in length and the plain twenty-four and that I am so ignorant of .imerica as to place J\ e-w-Jersey at fifty miles from LongIsland, and niiode-Island at one hundred and fifty, and .Maryland but thirty from Philadelphia ; or that I should believe the people of Suffolk, and especially the Members elected but last spring, to be well-affected to the measures now under the direction of General Hoive. I am not fond of oaths to remove groundless suspicions, or I should enclose you an affidavit that I never wrote a letter to .Mr. Howe upon any subject whatsoever nor to any man living, in the smallest degree similar to the letter in the -Maryland Journal. Such an affidavit I will publish, in

;

;

necessary, for the satisfaction of my countrymen ; after which, as Mr. ffowe is upon the spot, no man can believe the calumny who does not think me both a fool and a knave.

if it is

nental Congress or the Congress of this Colony.

;

Resolved, That the said Committee consist of the following gentlemen, to wit: Mr. Morris, Colonel Remsen, Mr.

Johi Ten Broeck, Mr. Haring, Mr. Tredivell, Colonel Lewis Graham, and Mr. Hallett ; and that any five of them be a quorum, and that before they enter on the business herein before assigned them, they, and also all such of the County Committees as may be engaged in carrying these Resolutions into execution, severally take

an oath diligently, imparwithout fear, favour, affection, or hope of reward, to execute and discharge the duties imposed on them by the aforegoing Resolutions. tially,

Resolved, That the said Committee appoint such persons may think proper to repair to the said Counties, to inquire for and procure the witnesses against the persons herein directed to be arrested or summoned, to appear and give evidence against the said pereons before the said Committee; and that the said persons be paid for their trouble at the rate of fifteen shillings for each day they shall respectively be employed on that service, and that the witnesses they may direct to attend as aforesaid be paid their as they

dated the 4th instant.

your humble servant,

oppose or contravene the measures of the ContiProvided, nevertheless, that the said Committee shall be, and they are hereby, authorized, in case they shall, on inquiry, find any or either of the said persons to be so dangerous as that they ought not to be permitted to go at large, to order such of them to be kept in safe custody. Resolved, That the said Committee and the County Committees keep a just record of their proceedings, in pureuance of these Resolutions, and report the same, with the substance of the evidence offered to them for and against the several persons who shall be by them apprehended, summoned, tried, and examined, by virtue of the aforesaid Resolutions and that they have power to send for witnesses and papers. rectly to

reasonable expenses for travelling charges and subsistence,

and allowed by the said Committee, which be a warrant to the Treasurer of this Congress to pay the pei-son or persons in w hose favour such certificate shall be given the sum or sums therein allowed as to

be

certified

certificate shall

aforesaid.

Colonel Broome, from the Committee appointed to hear and determine on the cases of such confined Prisoners as have been confined by order of this Colony's Congress, brought in a Report on the case of JSeil McFall, which was read, to wit

"New-Vork, June

5,

1776.

" Colonel Fleming says that JS'eil 31cFall, Sergeant of the Twenty-Sixtli Regiment, was taken prisoner at St. Johns-

NEW-YORK PROVmCIAL CONGRESS,

1371 knows him

that he rial

be zealously attached to the Ministe-

to

cause, and a sensible, discerning, intelligent

man

;

that

he believes him capable of making such remarks upon our works and Army here as may be extremely injurious to tlie American cause that it is well known that he has frequently been viewing our Fortifications and Encampments, and that upon being asked, at General Putnam s, if he would not join the Ministerial Army, nor give them any intelligence on their arrival here, he declined making any such declaration, and replied that he should be sorry not always to do his ;

duty. " Your Committee, to w honi the case of the said Neil McFall was referred, are of opinion, that from the above representation of Colonel F/emw)^, and the aforesaid iS'e?7McFall being a Continental Prisoner, and this Congress having no further interfered than by taking his parole at the request of General Schuyler, his case be referred to the Com-

mander-in-Chief of the Continental as in his discretion shall

seem meet

forces, to deal ;

with him

which, nevertheless,

is

John Broome, Chairman." Com-

humbly submitted. The same being

read, the Congress agree with their

mittee in their said Report.

Ordered, That a copy of the aforegoing Report, together with the Parole of the said Neil McFall, be immediately sent to Major-General

Putnam.

Militia

JUNE,

1776.

was already formed under

1372 by such Assemblies

are annually elected, the said Congress referred discretion of such

by

regulations approved

the Convention of such Colony, or

Convention or Assembly either

the foregoing regulations, in the whole or

in part,

tinue their former, as they, on consideration of

as

to the

it

to

adopt

or to con-

all

circum-

stances, should think best.

Upon

this plan the Rlinute-men of this Colony was formand your Committee report the following inconveniences

ed,

attending the execution of that plan, to wit

common MiMinute-men, under the degree of Field-Officers, are made eligible by the Privates of each Company; and, therefore, as the above-mentioned regulation for Minute-men gives a choice of Rlinute-Officers by one-fourth of the Militia, and a succession of Privates is provided for by All the Officers, as well those of the

1st.

litia

as of the

drafts,

it

follows that in the succession three-fourths of the

own

Militia will be subject to Officers not of their

election,

contrary to the evident design of Congress. 2dly. That in the regulation above-mentioned, by the Continental Congress, for the appointment of Officei-s, those under the degree of Field being placed in the election of the it to he their undoubted right so to and as the succession by draft will exclude threefourths of the Militia from such election, there is no possibility of supplying a succession of Privates upon the principle whereon the Minute-men are established from whence

people, they conceive

elect,

;

Die Mercurii, 4 ho. P. M., June

The

.'J,

1776.

it

Brigadier-General JVoodhull, President. Mr. Scott, Mr. Sands, Colonel Broome, Mr. Hallett, Colonel Sloutenburgh, Mr. Randall. For Albany. Mr. Glenn, Mr. Cuyler, Mr. Ten Broeck. For Suffolk. General JVoodhull, Mr.Gelston, Mr. Strong.

Present

:

For New-York.



— — Mr. De Lavergne, For Dutchess.—Mr. James Mr. Mr. Pye. For Orange. —Mr. Haring, Mr. For Westchester. —Major Lochivood, Colonel L. Graham, Captain Flemming. For Queen's. —Mr. Samuel Townshend,MT. James Livingston,

Schenck.

Little,

Minute Regiments in the Colony, while the different corps of Officers are complete, the Regiments as to Privates are, and must of necessity continue, very deficient, unless some new regulation be made. Therefore, we report it as the opinion of your Committee, 1st. That the distinction between Minute-men and common Militia, which seems to be a consequence of the aforesaid Resolve of the Continental Congress, be henceforth abolished, that thereby the Militia of the Colony may be

Van



2dly.

— —

General Washington's Letter relative to the Militia, which Report was read and filed on 26th May, was again read.

A Report of a Committee, whereof Mr. Scott was Chairman, of a plan or set of Resolutions for regulating the Militia, which was, on the 13th day o( May, made to the late Provincial Congress, and then read and filed, and referred over to this Provincial Congress, was read, and is in the words following, to wit Your Committee do

report

:

That they have

deliberate-

Colony as Minute-men and common Militia, a distinction which they are of opinion was ill-timed and unfortunate, by not being well adapted to the state of things in this Colony; and as they propose to offer some reasons for a change of the plan of defence by the natural strength of the ly considered the condition of the Militia of this

distinguished into

by assigning these reasons Continental Congress, on the Ibth of J«/ylast, among

Colony, they beg leave

The

to begin

as are willing to enter into this necessary service of defending their rights against Ministerial tyranny, formed into Com-

panies and Battalions, and their Officers, under the degree of Field-Officers, chosen by the men, and coiTsmissioned, as

well as the Field-Officers, by the respective Assemblies or Conventions, to be ready, on the shortest notice, to march

any place where

defence of their

their assistance

own

might be required

for the

or a neighbouring Colony; and that as

Minute-men might eventually be called to action bewhole body could be sufficiently trained, it was, therefore, recommended that a more particular and diligent

these

fore the

attention should be paid to their instruction in military dis-

and that such of the Minute-men as desire it should be relieved by new drafts from the whole body of the Militia once in four months, and that where, in any Colony, a

cipline,

common

therefore

all

mass.

the commissions for Minute Offi-

and that every Private be placed under his proper Militia Officer, leaving each Regiment to be officered according to the mode prescribed, that is to say: those under the degree of Field-Officers by election of the Privates, and those above that degree by the appointment of the Provincial Congress.

many Officers may be reduced and it would be very degrading to compel those whose appointments as Officers of Minutemen must be a clear proof of their distinguished attachment to the publick cause, to appear in the ranks, your Committee report it as their opinion that such gentlemen as have been appointed Minute-Officers and will be reduced in consequence of the reform now proposed, be not enrolled among the Militia nor be compelled to do military duties required by the Militia Regulations, but that they be requested by this Congress to keep themselves well equipped as the Militia Regulations require, your Committee not doubting that the laudable spirit which entitled them to a preference as Officers, will induce them, upon any publick emergency, to turn out in defence of their country in the character of Vo3dly.

As upon

this

plan

to the station of Privates,

lunteers.

As your Committee consider the City and County New-York, Richmond County, and King's County, as

4thly.

:

other things, resolved that one-fourth part of the Militia in every Colony be selected for Minute-men, of such pei-sons

to

That

different

cers be forthwith recalled,

Wyclc.

For Ulster. ^Colonel Hasbrouck, Major Parks. For Richmond. Mr. Conner, Mr. Cortelyou. For Charlotte. Colonel Malcom, Mr. Webster. For Tryon. Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper. The Report of the Committee for taking into consideration



That throughout the

again reduced to one

Toion-

shend, Mr.

follows,

3dly.

Congress met pursuant to adjournment.

oi

most

liable to a

sudden invasion, and as the more immediate

object of his Excellency General JVashingtons request to provide him with a Militia aid in case of an invasion seems

have a more inmiediate reference to those Counties, your Committee therefore report it as their opinion that the whole to

of the Militia of the said three Counties, forming together the New-York Brigade, be required to hold themselves completely provided, according to the Militia Regulations, to be at the command of his said Excellency, or the Commanderin-Chief of the Continental forces on the spot, for the time being, at a minute's warning, upon a proper order to be is-

sued by the purpose. 5thly.

Commanding

That

it

is

Officer of the Militia for that

the opinion of your

Committee

that one-

third part of all the rest of the Militia, without abating

part of the duty prescribed to the Rlilitia lected and prepared to turn out at the

in

any

general, be se-

command

of the

NEW- YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1373

Commanding Officer, in case of an alarm or invaunder the following Regulations, to wit to the end that such selected Militia may at all times be ready for immediate service, your Committee do advise that they be selected in manner following, that is to say That a Major-General be appointed to command the Milithat the office of Rrigadier-Genetia of the whole Colony ral in every Brigade be filled up according to the former military arrangement, by Provincial Congress; that the Major-General, when appointed, do forthwith issue his orders to the several Brigadier-Generals, who, in consequence there-

The Congress

Militia

1776.

adjourned

1374

to nine

o'clock to-morrow morn-

sion,

That

Die Jovis, 9 ho. A. M., June

The Congress met

:

;

are to issue their orders respectively to the respective

of,

Commanding Officers of the several BatRegiments under their command, requiring them to cause to be selected by ballot one-third part of the Militia of each Battalion or Regiment, to be ready to march at Colonels or other

talions or

a minute's warning, accoutred as the Militia Regulations re-

which men, so selectwarning, and shall keep themselves in such readiness for one whole year, at the expiration of which another third of each whole Battalion shall be balloted for the like service for one year, excluding those from the ballot who shall have already served, and quire,

and with

five days' provisions

ed, shall be ready to

march

;

at a minute's

that for the third year's service the remaining third part of

each Battalion shall be ready to perform the service in manner before directed and that in order properly to officer such detachments of the Militia for active and immediate service, the men balloted for the first and second year's service shall have the election of the Officers according to their respective ranks, the number and rank of each of which said Officers shall be according to their standing in the Militia no Officer to be employed in this service for more than one year, nor more than two Officers at a time out of one Company, and the remaining Officers in the third year to be ;

Officers of course, according to their standing in the Militia

and we recommend

it

as a necessary provision to permit

Present

— — — —

of such selected men as are allotted by the Militia Regulations that the Field-Officers to command such selected men shall be chosen by ballot by the Officers chosen

;

following, that •

is

to say

remain in confinement. 4 Westchester,

That he be admitted to and go at large. 4 Queen's,

8 New-York, 6 Albany,

28

bail,

4 Suffolk, 4 Ulster,

3 Orange, 5 Dutchess, 2 Charlotte.

2 King's,

2 Kichmond.

votes.

16 votes.

Resolved, therefore, That the said Philip Youngs remain in his present confinement.

Captain John Johnson attending, was admitted. He informs some time in the last night he found a large company

;

command the selected Militia, and that no more than one Field-Officer shall be elected out of each Battalion or Re-



A Petition oi Philip Youngs, now in custody, praying to be discharged, or permitted to go at large on giving security, was read and filed.* Debates arose on the said Petition and the question being put, whether the said Philip) Youngs shall be admitted to give security and to go at large, or remain in confinement, it was determined that he remain in confinement, in manner

any

command

Ran-

— — — — —

;

Officers shall be allotted for the



Mr. Van Zandt, Mr. Scoll, Mr. Jay, yi\: Ilalklt. For Albany. Mr. Glenn, Mr. Ten Broeck, Mr. Ciiyler. For Suffolk. General Woodhull, Mr.Gekton, Mr. Strong. For Dutchess. Mr. James Livingston, Mr. De Lavergne, Mr. Schenck. For Orange. Mr. Haring, Mr. Van Houten. For Westchester. Major Lockwood, Colonel L. Graham, Captain Fleming, Mr. Morris, Colonel Gilbert Drake. For Queen's. Mr. Samuel Towmhend, Mr. James Townshend, Mr. Van Wyck. For Ulster. Colonel Hasbrouck, Major Parks. For Richmond. Mr. Conner, Mr. Cortelyou. For Charlotte. Mr. Webster. For Tryon. Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper. dall,

procure a person to serve in his stead, provided he be approved of by the Commanding Officer of the Regiment

same proportion of

Brigadier-General Woodkull, President. Colonel Broome, Mr. Sands, Mr.

For Nkw-York.

selected person, except Officers for the service aforesaid, to

that the

:

1776.

6,

pursuant to adjournment.

that

to

*

June

6,

1776.

Mb. Speaker and Gentlemen of this Honourable House I, Philip Toungs, a confined prisoner, humbly make bold to address this honourable House, in hopes that they will indulge your Petitioner with a hearing, as your Petitioner is entirely innocent of the charge laid against him, of knowing, directly or indirectly, of any attempt to make, counterfeit, sign, or pass, any bill or bills of any kind or denomination whatsoever. Your Petitioner humbly hopes the House will be kind enough to consider his hard case your Petitioner having a vessel and cargo lying by for want of your Petitioner's presence, by which he is losing consider.ably every day. As your Petitioner is confined upon mere suspicion, your compliance with your Petitioner's request will greatlv oblige your distressed, humble servant, Philip Yousgs. :

giment

thus selected to

tia

Minute or Select service the Milibe under command of their respective

for the aforesaid

;

Brigadier and the Major-General, as the rest of the Militia.

By

order of the Committee

John Morin Scott, Chairman. Mr. Sands then moved, and was seconded by Mr. Strong, in

the words following, to wit

"

I

move

that this Congress proceed immediately into the

consideration of the Regulation of the Militia of this

To

Co-

After some time spent

in

consideration of Regulations for

some progress made therein. Malcom moved, and was seconded. That the Order

the Militia of this Colony, and

of Minute-men in this Colony be abolished.

Far

the Jljirmative.

6 Albany, 3 Orange, 8 New-York, 2 Richmond,

manner

following, to wit

For



16 votes.

29

was

Honourable House of Provin-

Honourable Speaker of the house of Provincial Congress of New-York, and to the House

The Petition o( Philip Youngs, now a prisoner, desireth once more the favour of this honourable House to take in consideration your Petitioner's hard fate, and be pleased to set him at liberty once more, any ways as House shall think proper, as be (your Pgtitioner) always has, ever since the present contest between Great Britain and .imerica, striven, that lay in his power, to promote the welfere o( .Imerica, as

all

known by

:

is

well

persons that live near me that I have got a great deal of ill by standing for my country, and by that have been threatened to be tarred and feathered, and now the Tories boast and say. You have been a great Whig, and see what the Congress will do with you now they will confine you, guilty or not guilty, and make you spend your money; and they cry out who hath complained, .\ great Tory. Which, gentlemen, if I had an opportunity, could proveevery word of this assertion; and, gentlemen, what I am confined, absolutely I am clear of, as true as the sun shines, which I am positive of before God and man, which, if I was not, would not say for ten thousand worlds. .\nd your Petitioner humbly hopes that this honourable House will consider my hard fate that I labour under and further, gentlemen, the hard usage that my family labours under on account of the Tories, who, when they pass the house, cry out to my family, Where is Youngs, that great Whig ! Why, the Congress has confined him because he is a Whig; and such like expressions, to terrify my family, and to make this honourable House look ridiculous, which, gentlemen, it grieves your Petitioner to hear of; and your compliance will oblige your distressed humble servant, Philip Yousgs. ;

will

3 Tryon, 4 Suflblk, 5 Dutchess, 4 Queen's.

2 Charlotte,

4

it

the jVe^ative.

4 Westchester,

the

this

Debates arose thereon, and the question being put, carried in the affirmative, in

JVatlianiel Woodhull, Speaker of the Congress in J\i''e-ui-York.

cial

To

lony."

Colonel



;

Ulster.

votes.

;

Mr. Diiane then came into Congress and gave Information that he had reason to believe that a body of the Militia would very speedily be called on, and be taken into present assist the Continental Army for a limited time and, from other matters mentioned by Mr. Duane, the further consideration of this subject was postponed for this afternoon.

pay, to

Mr. Duane had leave of absence to provide a house for their reception.

;

visit

his family

and

J>tne, Sth day, 1776.

P. S. Gentlemen, I make no doubt but if Samuel Brumes was here he would convince you all that I ever have striven to promote the welfare of .imerica, for which I appeal, gentlemen, to this honourable House for relief in this day of trouble. Be pleased to indulge me. P. Y.

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1375

;

obedient,

humble

servant,'

Ordered, That Captain Johnson be requested to cause a negro man named Will, who lately belonged to Joshua Delaplaine, deceased, to he apprehended, and put into safe custody and close confinement until further order.

to prepare a draft of

The proceedings of the General Committee of the City of New- York against Thomas Harriot, for refusing to receive

direct

ed

and

necessary.

his

To

send you prisoner Mr. John Livingston barber, taken into custody by order of the Committee

Jamaica, as you

He was

will see

delivered

be delivered safely into the hands of the Congress; accordingly, I have sent him (Livingston) and his barber under the care of a

number of

officers.

It

is

many

notorious that

of

the inhabitants of Qi/ecn's County are very unfriendly; arms, 1 am informed by the officers of my brigade, are daily carry-

camp down

ing by the

into that part of the Island

;

to

be unfriendly.

I

should be glad

to

known

know whether you

•Committee-Chajibkr, New-York,

J\Iay 24, 1776.

Mr. Jacob he Roy, attending at the door, was admitted. He informed the Committee that some time ago lie tendered a sum of money, consisting of Continental bills, to Mr. Thomas Harriot, and that he refused to receive the same.

Resolved, That the consideration of Mr. ferred until

Tuesday

Le Roy's

complaint be de-

next.

—Mr. Jacob

Le Roy again attending this Committee, upon his complaint against Thomas Harriot, says, that he order to pay him a sum of Jamaica, in Harriot, at waited upon Mr. money in Continental bills. Mr. Harriot asked him how much other examinant told him no other; Mr. Harriot money there was; that the then replied, he would take no such money. The examinant further deTcESDAT,

JUo!/ 28, 1776.

he tendeied Mr. Harriot the money, and that Harriot told him he would receive no such sum in Continental money To which Mr. Le that his friends would blame him fur receiving it. Roy answered, he had nothing to do with his friends. Mr. Harriot being brought before the Committee, acknowledged that Mr. Le Roy tendered him a sum of money, consisting of Continental bills, and that he refused to receive it until he could place it at interest, but that he would have received it had it been gold or York money. The Committee, taking Uie above matter into consideration, thereupon. Resolved, That Thomas Harriot has violated the Resolution of Congress in refusing to receive the Continental bills on payment, and that he be held up to the publick as an enemy to his country.

clares, that previous to this

;

TutSDAY, June

4, 1776.

— Mr. Jacob Le Roy acquainted

the Chair-

that he had again tendered Thomas Harriot Continental currency, which he still refuses to receive, alleging that he had appealed to Congress, and would abide by their determination. Resolved and Ordered, That an extract of the Minutes of this Committee relating to Mr. Harriot's case, be handed to Congress. JostpH WiNTtn, Secretary. Extract from the Minutes: Captain T/iomas //arrjo(, being called before the Committee, was duly convicted of having refused to receive in payment the Continental bills, and still persists in refusing the t^ame and further said he would appeal to the Provincial Congress, but refused to give security for his answering to the said appeal, though a gentleman present offered his seiviees to him on that account and the said Harriot added, he did not care whether he was held up or not to the publick as an enemy to his country; and when he was informed of the disagreeable circumstances he might bring himself into by his conduct, said he hoped or expected he would be provided for. The Committee, considering the said Thomas Harriot to be a dangerous person, do request that the Provincial Congress may acquaint them if they think he ought to be suffered to go at

man

;

;

he is now in the custody of the guards. Extracts from the Minutes Joseph

letter of this

have been

me

safely delivered to this Congress.

Winter,

Seaetary.

you

to return

1776.

They

their thanks for

Brigadier-General Greene.

Mr. John Livingston, Jun., sent to this Congress under a guard from the said Committee of Jamaica, was called in andheard. He produced a furlough* from Major Bleecker, of this City, for eight days from the date, and dated the 1st of June, and says he had another furlough prior to this. He acknowledges that he knew of the time appointed for the persons who had removed from New-York to Jamaica to show their furloughs to the Committee that he knew it at least two or three days before the time appointed for that purpose; that he was not at home at the last time appointed, having on He further acknowledges that that day rode out of town. he never showed either of the said furloughs to any of the Committee at Jamaica, or informed either of them that he had any furlough. Thereupon, the following entry of the case, and determination, were unanimously agreed to, viz Whereas John Livingston, Jun., an inhabitant of the City of Neiv- York, having been ordered by the Committee of Jamaica to repair to the said City o( New- York, pursuant to a Resolution of die last Provincial Congress for that purpose, or produce a certificate from a Field-Officer of a Regiment to which he belonged, and not producing any such furlough to the said Committee, was sent under a guard to the ConAnd whereas the said John Livingston, Jun., on being gress examined by this Congress, confesses that at the time he was called upon as aforesaid by the said Committee he had a furlough from a Field-Officer of the Regiment to which he :

belonged, but did not produce it: Resolved, That the said John Livingston, Junior, has treated the said Committee of Jamaica with contempt, and that they did right in sending him to the Congress in manner aforesaid and, therefore, that the said John Livingston ought luimbly to ask pardon of the said Committee for his said offence, and to pay all the expenses incurred by his being and that on his giving his parole of sent down as aforesaid honour to this Congress to execute and perform this Resolu;

;

tion,

he be discharged.

Whereupon, the

said

John Livingston, Jun., was called

and the aforegoing Resolution being read to him, and he being asked w hether he would perform what is required of him in the said Resolution, he answered that he would perform such part of the said Resolution as relates to paying the expenses incurred by his being sent down as

into Congress,



New-York, June

1,

1776.

bearer hereof, Mr. Joh7i IJvingston, Jun., belonging to Captain Van Duersen's Company of the First Regiment of the City Militia of JVe-w-York, has leave of absence from his corps for eight days from the date hereof; but is to return immediately upon an alarm or invasion of

The

Anthony L. Bleecker,

this place.

large, as

6,

day, with the prisoners mention-

;

and the

inhabitants here say they are the very people that are

it,

Your

Ordered, That a copy of the preceding Letter be engrossed and signed by the President, and transmitted to General Greene by the Officer who was the bearer of General Greeners Letter.

I

by the pajiers accompanying this. by the Captain of the Minute Company ComiveU, who commanded a detachto Lieutenant-Colonel ment from this division of the Army, by order of General P%itnam, to Hempstead. The Captain requested that he might oi'

in

:

;

Sundry OlBcers from General Greeners camp attending, w ith John Livingston, Jun., a prisoner in their custody, sent in a Letter from General Greene ; which was read, and is in the words following, to wit " Camp on Lung-Island, June 6, 1776. :

ATHANAEL r^ Greene. »

your vigilance on this occasion, and assure you that a continuance of the same attention will be exceedingly agreeable to them. They are alarmed at being informed that so great a nimiber of arras have been carried into the country and, as they passed in view of the camp, regret they were not detained, and the Should you be able persons concerned in it apprehended. to discover where the arms you allude to are deposited, or the persons who have been or may be concerned in that or the like business, they authorize and request you to take them and the arms found with them into custody, and send them under a proper guard to this Congress, and the names of the witnesses against them. By order. I am, very i-espectfuUy.

money in payment, and his appeal, were read.* Ordered, That the said appeal be heard on Monday next that a copy of the order be forwarded to Thomas Harriot and that the said General Committee be requested to appoint a sub-Committee to prosecute the said appeal, and to direct the evidences to attend this Congress, and that the General Committee have the aid of the Congress for the at-

Gentlemen

IN

New-York, June

Sir

Continental

'

,, tit

"

Ordered, That Mr. Jay and Mr. Morris be a Committee an Answer to General Greened Letter.

the Square.

if

1376

approve or disapprove of such a practice. The officere tell me that not less than four or five hundred stand of arms have I have given orders gone by the camp within a few days. to stop all lor the future, until 1 know your pleasure. " Believe me to be, with the greatest respect, your most

of nen-roes dancing in a small house of Davan's, in the East AVarcl. near the East River ; that from one of the negroes, named Hill, belonging to the estate of the late Joshua Delaplaine, deceased, he took a Drum with the King's Arms on that the negro said he got the Drum from General Heath. it Captain Johnson says that a few nights ago he discovered upwards of thirty negroes dancing in Mr. Walton s house in

tendance of their witnesses,

1776.

Major

to

First Regiment of Cily Militia of JVeiu-York.

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS,

1377 aforesaid

but that he woultl not ask pardon of the said

;

and required to order of this Congress.

custody

those Resolutions, and endeavour to

which appear

A

remove the

difficulties

General Committee.

to the said

draft of a Letter to the President of the

Convention of of, and is

the Dominion of J^^rginia was read and approved in the

words following,

to wit

In Provincial Congress, New-York, June

Sir:

I

have received your

letter

of the

22d

6,

1776.

ultimo, cover-

ing a copy of the resolve of the Convention of Virginia

commu-

Independence, which were immediately

relative to

nicated to the Congress of this Colony, and will be considered by them with all the deliberation due to the impor-

They have directed me to request tance of the subject. the favour of you to convey their thanks to the Convention of Virginia for this mark of their attention, and to assure them that the Congress of this Colony will invariably adopt and pursue every measure which may tend to promote the union and secure the rights and happiness of the United Colonies. I

have the honour

By

To

to be, sir,

your most obedient servant.

order.

Edmund

the Hon.

Pendleton, Esq. „



,

.,

,

9 ho. Friday morning,

„ The Congress met _,,

June

,^,^ 1776.

.,

7,

,.

pursuant to adjournment.

Brigadier-General Woodhull, President. Mr. Jay, Mr. Van Zandt, Mr. Hallett, Mr. Randall, Colonel Broome. For Albany. Mr. Cuyler, Mr. Glenn, Mr.Ten Brosck. For Dutchess. Mr. Schenck, Mr. Livingston, Mr. De

Present

:

For New- York.



— — For Suffolk. —General Woodhull, Mr. Lavergne.

Strong, "Mv. Gel-

sion.

FonORAf,GE.-Mr.Haring Mi. i OR Westchester.

that

quarter wear a melancholy aspect. Should the Indians and Canadians take up arms against us, (which there is too much reason to fear,) we shall then have the

our

until the further

Two Members from the General Committee o( New- York having attended, to request an explanation or removal of some difficulties which appear to the said General Committee in the late Resolutions of this Congress for an election of Members to form a plan or Constitution of Government for this Colony, Ordered, That Mr. Scott and Mr. Jay be a Committee of this Congress to go to the General Committee and explain

situation,

J

T

,

/-.

1

that is

TT T^ Henry Hawkins, ,



sothathisle^sweU.

.uhe is hereby, auOrdered, ihat Captain Wool be, and thorized and requested to have the irons taken oft" Henry •

A .

T

r

T

IT

T

TT

7

7

T^

,



,•

,

,

words following: :

„ Our

..Philadel laepia, hia J une e4

„.

1 ,

aftairs

.

are hastening fast to a crisis,

and the approaching campaign will, in all probability, determine forever the fate of ^«mc«. Such is the unrelenting spirit which possesses the tyrant of Britain and his Parliament, that they have left no measure unessayed that had a tendency to accomplish our destruction. Not satisfied with having lined our coasts with ships of war to starve us into a surrender of our liberties, and to prevent us from being sup-

Fourth Series.

—Vol.

vi.

From

;

;



i

i

i

,

i

AW

To the Honourable the Convention of Forit." mu tj Resolutions of the Continental Congress,i

.

'"

{^^ Mr. Hancock

^^'°'^^^

received

s

Letter,

were also read, and are

the

in

following, to wit " I" Congress, June

I,

1776.

"Resolved, That six thousand Militia be employed to reinforce the Army in Canada, and to keep up the communication with that Province. And, to-make up that number, " Resolved, That the Colony of 31assachm€tts-Bay be requested to supply of their Militia 3,000 4 Battalions,



-

-

New-Hampshire of their iMilitia iVe«v Forfc of their Militia -

-

Connecticut of their Militia

-

l,500--2 Battalions

750—1 750-1

Battalion, Battalion.

,

Letter from the Hon. John Hancock, President of the Continental Congress, was received and read, and is in the

,^ " Gentlemen

Continental

by the time they will be wanted. the secrecy with which the Ministry carry on their machinations, we neither know their views or how near our enemies may be perhaps at this moment they are landing on some part of our country. In this difficult and trying '','"^''°" °'' °"'' affairs, the Congress have come to the en1;'°'^

i

'^'^^^

to wit:

words foliowimr °

v Your



Sir:

j„ p^vincial Congress, New-York, June 7, 1776. r i a.i. r t f . of the 4th of Jime instant, enclosing •

.

1



1

letter

.• , . r ,1 .1, r< certain important resolves ol the honourable the Continen' j » . -^j ^,1 r 1 j 4th . iinstant, .

.

1

,

^ Congress

1

1



was delivered of the 1st, .Jd, and i.1 morning, and immediately communicated to the . ^ ^> j1^1 r i hey have directed me to preConvention of this Colony, .1 /-< j . . .1 r .1 sent to the Congress their warmest acknowledgment lor the 1^-j .1 .. 1? j they have paid .to .1 the wellare and hapunwearied attention j. r .1 tt •. 4 /.1 .1 . .1 piness ot tile United Colonies, and to assure them that this {i, -ii . r n m allii endeavour .to comply with Colony will most cheerlully ,

tal

to

me

1

p-

,



,

1

1



.

1

tins .

1

,



1

1

1

,1



1

.

1

i

.

1

,

i

1





i

i

^j^^j^ requisitions.

r> j .1. .1 n j Persuaded that the pay allowed i



I

their respecUrdered, 1 hat the secretaries engross '^ J ., tive Commissions, and that the same respectively be signed ,1 , J J attested the President and Secretaries, and sent the by by .

De

Townshend, Mr. J.Townshend, Mr.

.S'.



I

Livingston, Mr.

Paul Schenck.

tion, to

,

Strong, Mr, Gel-

'

ston.

be recommended to the Assemblies

"John Hancock,



,.

For Tryon.— Mr. Harjjer, Mr. Moore. For Suffolk. General fVoodhull, Mr.

Secretary."

and Conventions of the Colonies requested to supply or furnish Militia by the Resolutions of yesterday, to take particular care that the Militia come provided with Arms, Accoutrements, and Camp-Kettles. " By order of Congress

.

'

,

Colonel G. Drake, Colonel L. Graham, Mr. Morris.

"

" Resolved,

:

^

met pursuant to adiournment. > " ' Brigadier-General Woodhull, President.

For New- York.— Mr.

" Extract from the Minutes "

.

-p ,y Congress

dantain Thomas Harriot, relative to his refusal of the Continental Bills of Oedit payment, after being legally tendered him by Mr. Jacob

Le Roy, Merchant

New-York, Tuesday morning, June

The

£1500

of this City.

Robert Hinrun, Dc[mttj-Chairman.

that the further

Sundry Resolutions for electing Deputies to form a Government were also read and discussed, and the further con-

Committee, and no report made thereon, the same being taken into consideration, Resolved, That the sum of

Strong.

Colonel

11, 1776.

Congress met pursuant to adjournment.

Present: Brigadier-General fVoodhull, President. Mr. Van Zandt, Colonel Broome, Colonel Remsen, Mr. Van Cortlandt, Colonel Stoutenburgh, Mr. Philip Livingston, Mr. Sands, Mr. Jay.

For New-York.



*

New-York, June

8, 1776.

from the decay of trade, is under the necessity of laying his case before the honourable the Provincial Congress, imploring them, upon an impartial survey of his situation, to afford him the aid he requires, which is to grant him a certificate to the Committee oi Charlotte Precinct, Dutchess County, that he may be permitted to reside in that Precinct, (as he is promised a good deal of work there,) and endeavour by honesty and application to maintain himself and small The aforesaid Hilliam Tillou has a wife, who is a helpless family. lunatick, by which she is rendered utterly incapable of serving herself, much more of minding her two small children. In this condition, beside the want of employ, should the Ministerial troops invade this city, this poor family must undergo all the miseries of war, not having wherewith to sustain themselves, nor able to assist one another. William Tillou. The above is attested as a truth by the subscribers, Peter Hocer, Peter Tillou. William Tillou, of

this City, Joiner,

John Wvllev,

NEW- YORK PRO VINCI A I. CONGRESS, JUNE,

1393

—Mr. Glenn, Mr. Cmjkr, Mr. Ten — La— — — Mr. — For Charlotte. —Colonel Malcom, Mr. —Mr. Mr. Polkemus, Mr. CovenFor Conner. For Richmond. —Mr. Journey, For Westchester. — Colonel G. Drake, Mr. Huvdand, Colonel L. Graham, Mr. Lockwood. For Tryon. — Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper. For Albany.

Urocele,

Colonel Rensselaer. For Ulster. Colonel Hnsbrovck. Major Parks. For Dutchess. Mr. Jemies Livingston, Mr. Dc vergne, Mr. P. Schenck. For Orange. Mr. Little. Mr. Van Houten. For Queen's Colonel Bhckwell, Mr. Lawrence. For Suffolk. General IVoodhull, Mr. Tredivell, Strong.

Webster.

King's.

Lcffertse,

hoven.

l\lr.

On

motion,

leave

oi"

was Ordered, That Major Lockwood have

it

absence.

Letter from Joseph Trumbull, Esq., Commissary-Gen-

was received and read, and

eral,

is

in the

words following,

"New-York, June

Gentlemen

Washington

:

I

am

apply

to

11, 1776.

to you, informing that

he understands

City and Colony to diiferent foreign ports and places, and that he is appreliensive that the great augmentation of troops to be made here and in Canada will recjuire all the pork in this and the neighbouring Colonies for their subsistence this campaign until new pork comes in and therefore requests your interposition to put a stop to such exportation in such manner as to you sliall appear most proper, to prevent the want of provisions for subsisting the troops employed in the necessary defence of our just rights and liberties. I am, gentlemen, with great respect, your most obedient this

;

humble servant.

To

'Joseph Trumbull, ''Commissary of Stores and Provisions.

the Hon. the Colonial Congress of JScw-York."

On

consideration whereof, the Congress

came

into the

following determination and Resolution, to wit:

Whereas

it

has been represented to

great quantities of salted Pork and

which,

for exportation,

of the

plies

as

Army

not retained,

ii"

this

may

and uncertain

difficult

Congress that

Beef have been purchased render the sup-

am

I

is in

the words follow-

New- York, June

11, 1776.

directed by the Congress of

lliis

Co-

enclosed papers to you, for the purpose of being communicated to the Continental Coni'ress. lony to transmit

the;

am, gentlemen, your most obedient servant.

I

By

To

order.

New- York Delegates

the

at

Continental Congress.

Ordered, That a copy thereof be engrossed, and signed by the President, and transmitted.

The

Jail,

Thomas Wooley, confined in Queen's He therein makes submission for

of

Petition

County

was

read.

and prays to be discharged.* Ordered, That the said Petition be referred

his past offences,

to the

Com-

who are authorized to hear and determine thereon and if the said Thomas Wooley shall make such concessions and engagements, or, if they should mittee of Queen's County,

require

it,

give such security as they

may

that they

A draft

him

direct

may

think necessary,

be discharged.

to

of a Letter to the Committee of Queen's County, Thomas Wooley, was read and ap-

ported from this Colony in any vessel under any pretence whatsoever for the space of fourteen days, by which time the

Continental Congress will have an opportunity of making some general regulations respecting the same. draft of

an Answer

Letter of Joseph Trumbull,

to the

Esq., Commissary-General, received this day, was read and

approved

of,

and

is

in

proved

of,

and

the words following, to wit

is

in

the words following, to wit

In Provincial Congress,

New-York, A. M., June

11, 1776.

Gentlemen: Enclosed you have a petition from Thomas Wooley to this Congress, which we have chosen to reier to you

you should think it contains a reayou will then give orders for his discharge, only taking security for his future good behaviour if you should think that necessary. judge of; and

to

sonable concession

We To

if

for his offences,

are, respectfully,

sir,

your most obedient servants.

Committee of Queen's County.

the

Ordered, That a copy thereof be engrossed, and signed by the President, and transmitted.

A

Letter from Colonel Ritzema, informing the Congress

that there are about thirty Muskets, purchased

by the Com-

mittee of Jamaica, and requesting an order for them,f was read.

Ordered, That Captain Riker be, and he

is

hereby, au-

Committee of Jamaica the said Muskets, and have them repaired, where necessary, for the use of the Troops raised in this Colony that Captain Riker take care that the said Committee send a particular account thorized to receive from the

;

of the price of those

York ; and

:

Resolved, therefore. That no salted Beef or Pork, except much as may be necessary for the use of tlie crew, be ex-

A

and

In Provincial Congri-BB,

Gentlemen:

directed by his Excellency General

that considerable (juantities of salted pork are shipping from

"

of,

ing, to wit

covering the Petition of

to wit

"

was read and approved

1394

;

Ordered, That Samuel Lowlenh application and the parties be dismissed until the further order of this Congress.

A

days,

177G.

Arms to Colonel Curtenius, at j\ewArms pass through the hands of such manner that he may be enabled

that the said

Colonel Curtenius

in

* To the Honourable the Provincial Congress, or, in

tlieir recess, to

the

Com-

Colony o/New-York. Wooley, o/Cow-Neck, inthe TuioishipofHEnr-

mittee of Safity for the

The Petition oJ'Tuoiwi

STEiD, iiumbhj shoxoeth

That although your

;

Petitioner, rather from

inadvertency' than any design to offend, may have rendered himself obnoxious to this honourable body, and drawn on himself as well their resentment as that misery and distress from which only the iimocent can claim an exemption, (being confined in close jail by an order from this honourable board,) yet he humbly conceives that the punishment he has already suflered is fully adequate to his crime that however unworthy a member of society your ;

In Provincial Congress, New-York, June 11, 1776.

may have been represented or conceived to be, he has yet the confidence to assure this honourable Board that there yet remains in him that virtue that can distinguish him as a friend to his native country, (a greater love for which no man can have,) especially when every tender tie and afi'ection that can endear him to his family and connexions inspires his breast with the warmest wishes for their happiness and welfare ; that should the most cordial declaration of your Petitioner fail to excite commisseration for his present unhappy circumstances, he has Petitioner

Sir: Your letter has been received and communicated Be pleased to inform his Congress of the Colony. Excellency General Washington that this Congress has, by a resolution, of wliich the enclosed is a copy, restrained the They are exportation of beef and pork for fourteen days. of opinion that application should immediately be made to

full

the Continental Congress,

that your Petitioner never

to the

may

in

order

tliat

a general regulation

Congress will always be ready to pursue such measures as may advance the common cause, yet the justice due to their constituents forbids them take place

subjecting their I

am,

By

To

sir,

;

for

although

Colony

this

to partial restraints.

left

which innocence always

affords the distressed,

meant to counteract nor in the least oppose the authority of this or any other the honourable Congress, but, on the coninfringement ; and therebe released from his present imprisonment.

trary, cautiously, as he thought, avoided every

fore prays that

And your

he

may

Petitioner shall ever pray, &c.

Jamaica Jail, Juiu

Thomas Woolet.

9, 177G.

your most obedient servant. him

visions.

Ordered, That a copy thereof be engrossed, and signed by the President, and transmitted.

A

draft of a Letter to the Delegates of this Colony at Continental Congress, enclosing copies of Colonel Trumbull's Letter and answer thereto, and the Resolution for

the exportation of

Fourth Series.

— Vol.

Beef and Pork

vi.

for fourteen

Sir Captain Biker informs me

that Mr. Joseph Robinson acquainted him with about thirty muskets, so Congress to the Committee at' Jamaica to an order was obtained from The wretched situation of my regmient deliver them to the Captain, necessary for me to embrace every for the want of arms has rendered it I sliall be glad, therefore, of an order to opportunity to procure them. the Committee oi Jamaica to deliver their arms to Captain Hiker, and that he be directed to have them repaired and put in order at .Ye-Lnio-jm. Rudolphcs Ritzema. I am, sir, your very humble servant, f

order.

Joseph Trumbull, Esq., Commissary of Stores and Pro-

restraining

only that consolation

:

last

Sunday

that he could furnish

Tuesday morning.

To

the

Chairman

Yoik:

of the

Committee of Safety

for the

Province of.Vnu-

NEW-\ORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1395

them, and take proper receipts for them, so that oi- Officeis to whose Company they may be furnished, may be accountable for them, and that they may be accounted for, and paid for to the Colony. Ordered, That Colonel Curttnius direct such Arms as are fit for the use of Soldiers which the General Committee of the City and County of i\ew- I'or/v have taken from disaffected persons, and sent to him after they are appraised to

pay

for

the Officer

and repaired where necessary, be put into the Colony Store, in the

same manner

as other

Arms.

Ordered, That Captain JVool examine the situation of Isaac YoiDigs, a prisoner, and cause the irons to be taken off him if he thinks it necessary.*

the said Freeholders and Electors by instructions or otherwise to inform their said Deputies of their sentiments relative to the great question of

as they

On

may

Independency, and such other points

think proper.

motion, Agreed, That the publishing of the aforegoing

Resolves be postponed until after the election of Deputies with powers to establish a new form of Government.

Ordered, That Mr. Jay and Colonel Remsen be a Committee to draft an answer to the Letter of our Delegates at ject of

The

Independency.

John Hilton, showing that he had laden with Beef and Pork, and was ready to sail in a few hours, when he was this day informed of the Resolve prohibiting the exportation of Beef and Pork, k,c. and praying permission to complete his cargo and depart,* was Petition of

his vessel

;

read.

Ordered, That Mr.

Tuesday, P. M., June 11, 1776.

The And

Congress met pursuant to adjournment. :

the

Brigadier-General Woodhull, President. same Members as in the morning, excepting

Colonel Rensselaer, Mr. Lockwood, Mr. Leffertse, Mr. Covenhoven, Mr. Journey, Mr. Conner.

Mrs. BeUs and a woman from Stone Street were introduced to Congress. They said they came to be examined respecting the charge of their having kept

up a correspond-

ence with the Asia ship-of-war, &ic. Ordered, That Mr. Glenn and Mr. Scheiick be a mittee to examine them, and report to this Congress. Several

Resolutions on the

1396

Continental Congress, received the 10th instant, on the sub-

Ordered, That IMr. Sands, Mr. Denning, and Mr. Ten Broeck, be a Committee to inquire into and report the state of the Magazines in this Colony, and what quantity of Powder is due from the Colony.

Present

1776.

Van Zandt

cause the Inspector of all the Vessels now in this Port laden with Beef and Pork, and the quantity in each, and report the same to this Congress. exportation to collect an account of

Ordered, That Colonel Remsen and Colonel Malcom be Committee to draw and report a plan for drafting, in case of a deficiency of Volunteers, to make up the quota of Militia of this City and County in the service. a

Ordered, That Colonel Broome, Colonel Van Remselaer, and Mr. Tredwell, be a Committee to report how the people called (Quakers shall be considered and treated, in the raising,

Com-

furnishing and drafting the Militia ordered to be imbodied for service in this Colony.

moved by Mr. Jay, and seconded by Colonel Remsen, were read and being again read by paragraphs, were amended

Comhow the Second Battalion shall

Ordered, That Mr. Lawrence and Mr. Sands be a

subject of Independence,

mittee to consider and report

be paid.

;

words following, to wit Resolved, unanimously, That the good people of this Colony have not, in the opinion of this Congress, authorized

and agreed

this

to,

and are

Resolved, That the calling out of the Militia of the City

in the

Congress, or the Delegates of

this

Colony

in

the Conti-

and County o{ Neiv-York, until

Friday next

;

and

nental Congress, to declare this Colony to be and continue

respective Regiments o[

independent of the Crown of Great Britain. But whereas the perseverance of the British King and Parliament, in an unjustifiable attempt to subjugate and enslave these United Colonies, may render a determination on that and many other important points highly necessary and expedient, and a recurrence to the people at large for their sentiments on every great question that may occur in the course of the present contest would be very inconvenient to them, and probably be attended with dangerous delays Resolved, unanimously, therefore, That it be, and is hereby, earnestly recommended to all the Freeholders and other Electors in this Colony, at the ensuing election, to be held in pursuance of a Resolution of the Congress of the 31st day of May last past, not only to vest their Representatives or Deputies with the powers therein mentioned, but also with full power to deliberate and determine on every question whatsoever that may concern or aft'ect the interest of this Colony, and to conclude upon, ordain, and execute every act and measure which to them shall ajjpear conducive to the hajipiness, security, and welfare of this Colony, and that they hold and exercise the said powers until the second Tuesday of May next, or until a regular form of Government for this Colony shall be established, in case that event shall sooner take place and it is further recommended to

to be

;

"To

the

Honourable Provincial Congress of the Government of

New-York:

your humble Petitioner, Isaac Youngs, beg leave once more to address myself to you in the most dutiful manner, and beg to be relieved from these bands of irons, which are sore and desperate, which I dare say any man that ever was exercised therewith will assert the same. Gentlemen, I can assert to you that I have passed these many days with very sore legs, and in continual pain in one of my knees, which has been hurt by a fall of a horse. Gentlemen, I beg that I may not be forgotten, and long to have our cases taken into consideration, that I may ha\c liberty to satisfy the House that I have suHered wrongfully; and I think the time long that I am confined for nothing, for I denied the charge laid against me, by reason I thought it was a sin, which I did assert to you in my examination. And if anything more than this is alleged against me by anybody, I should be glad to know it, for it is groundless and absolutely false, which I don't doubt I can make appear to you if I could have a hearing. Gentlemen of the honourable Congress, I think it a hard case to be taken away from my family, in their distressed situation, and to be confined in irons, when I never have committed any crime. Gentlemen, I can do no more than beg for tenderness, mercy, and humanity. Isaac Younbs. I,

June

10, 1776.

for the

purpose of raising or

drafting their quota of Militia for actual service, be deferred that the respective Colonels of the

New- York

paraded on that day

cause their Regiments

for that purpose.

Wednesday morning, June

The

Congress met pursuant

Present

:

12, 1776.

adjournment.

Brigadier-General Woodhull, President.

For New-York.

—Mr. Sands, Mr.

Van Zandt, Mr. Scott.

to

J.

Van Zandt, Mr. P.

Jay, Mr. Hallett, Mr. Brasher, General

— —

For Albany. Mr. Cuyler, Mr. Glenn. For Suffolk. Mr. Strong, Mr. Tredwell, hull.

For Westchester.

General Wood-



Colonel G. Drake, Colonel L. Graham, Mr. Haviland. For Dutchess. Mr. Livingston, Mr. De Lavergne, Mr.



P. Schenck. Ulster. Colonel Hasbrouck, Major Parks. Charlotte. Mr. Webster. Orange. Mr. Little, Mr. Van Houtcn. Queen's. Captain Lawrence, Mr. Blackwell. Richmond. Mr. Conner, Mr. Journey. Tryon. Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper.

For For For For For For

— — — — — —

To the Honourable the Provincial Congress for the Colony ofNswYoRK, in the City of New-York, now convened. The Memorial ofixns Hylton, Master of the Sliip called the Bktsi and PoLLX, now lying in the /{ardour of said City, humbly shoiceth:

'

That your

Mejnorialist, on the 3 1st day of

May last, obtained from Mr.

Robert Ray (who ofticiates as an officer for that purpose) a permit to take on board the said ship a lading of beef, pork, flour, &c., and also four hundred and fifty shakers hogsheads and, in pursuance of said permission, the said ship is now completely freighted therewith, except about ;

two hundred barrels of bread and Hour to be taken on board. That the greatest part of the said beef and pork has been purchased at a very exorbitant price, and now lies at the bottom of the said ship, and in a few hours the said ship would have been ready to depart this Province had not your Memorialist been informed that a resolve of this honourable House, so late as this very day, prohibited the same, to the very great injury, loss, and disappointment of your Memorialist and his owners, who fairly and openly shipped the said provisions, with permission of an officer acting under the immediate authority of this honourable House.

Your Memorialist, therefore, in tender consideration of the premises, humbly prays he may be permitted to complete his cargo, and depart this Port, and such further relief as shall seem just and reasonable. And your Memorialist shall ever pray. John Htltos.

New-York, Jime

11, 1776.

NEW -YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS,

1397

Mr. Mercier attending with a Manifest of several Vessels

now

tiie

Cargoes of

in the Resolution of yesterday for preventing the exportation of Beef and Pork, or until the determination of the Continental Congress, if they should make a prior determination

thereon.

Letter from Mr.

Abraham

Yates, Junior, enclosing an

extract of a Letter of Colonel Frederick Bellcnger,

Powder

requesting

was

read,

for the frontiers.

Ordered, That twelve hundred pounds of Gunpowder be immediately sent to the Committee of Albany, for the use of the frontier inhabitants o( Albany and Tryon Counties who are most exposed

;

acts of violence towards

and that Mr. R. Norwood, Commissary

Ordered, That Mr. Livingston, Mr. Hackett, and Mr. Sands, be a Committee to agree with John McDonald, the Miner. Resolved, That the calling out of the Militia of the City and County of New- York, for the purpose of raising or drafting their quotas of Militia for actual service, be deferred

Tuesday next, and that the respective Colonels of the Militia of the City and County of New-York, and of the Counties of King's and Richmond, cause their Regiments to be paraded on that day for that purpose. until

Resolved, That this Congress will give to the General and Staff Officers a Dinner at the publick expense. And Ordered, That the President wait on his Excellency General Washington, to know what day will be most convenient to him.

Present

:

It

was,

Mr. Gansevoort and Colonel Rensselaer took the general

on

to

:

this Congress by no means approve of the have happened this day. They (latter themselves, however, tiiat they have proceeded from a real regard to liberty, and a detestation of those persons who, by their language and conduct, have discovered themselves to be inimical to the cause o{ America. To urge the warm friends of liberty to decency and good order, this Congress assures the publick that effectual measures shall be taken to secure the enemies of American liberty in this Colony; and do require the good people of this City and Colony to desist from all riots, and leave the offenders against so good a cause to be dealt with by the constitutional Representatives of the Colony.

Ordered, That Mr, Van Zandt, Colonel Graham, and Mr. Sands, be a Committee to sell the Flour, Bread, and Peas, purchased by the Committee of Safety.

Wednesday

disaffected persons

Resolved, That

oath of secrecy.

Congress met pursuant

some

1398

riots that

of Colony Stores, deliver the said twelve hundred pounds weight of Gunpowder, in good order, to Jacob Cuylcr, Esq., for the use aforesaid, and take his receipt for the same.

The

1776.

therefore.

lading in this Port,*

Ordered, That the consideration o( John Hilton's Petition be postponed until the expiration of the prohibition contained

A

JUNE,

afternoon,

June

13, 1776.

adjournment.

General Woodhull, President.

For New-York.— Mr. Scott, Mr. J. Van Zandt, Mr. P. Van Zandt, Mr. Bancker, Mr. Randall. For Albany. Mr. Glenn, Mr. Gansevoort, Colonel Rens-

— For Suffolk. — General Woodhull. Mr. Mr. TredFor Orange. —Mr. Mr. Van Houten. For Westchester. —Colonel L. Graham, Colonel Drake, Mr. Haviland. For Dutchess. — Mr. De Lavergne, Mr. Mr. LivFor Ulster.—Colonel Hasbrouck, Mr. Parks. —Mr. Polhemus. For For Queen's. —Colonel Captain Lawrence. For Charlotte. —Mr. Colonel Malcom. For Tryon. —Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper. selaer,

Strong,

well.

Little,

Gilbert

Schenck,

ingston.

King's.

Blackwell,

Webster,

The President reported that he had waited on his Excellency General Washington, and that Friday next was fixed most convenient day

as the

for his

Excellency

to

accept

the invitation of the complimentary Dinner resolved to be

given him and his Officers by this Congress. Thursday morning, June

The Congress met

13, 1776.

pursuant to adjournment.

General Woodhull, President. Mr. Hallctt, Mr. Sands, Mr. P. Van Zandt, Mr. Denning, Mr. Brasher, Mr. Randall, Mr. Bancker. For Albany. Mr. Ten Broeck, Mr. Rensselaer, Mr. GanPresent

:

For New-York.



— — —

sevoort.

For Suffolk. Gen. Woodhull,Mr. Strong,Mr. TredweU. For Orange. Mr. Van Houten, Mr. Little. For Westchester. Colonel Drake, Colonel Graham,



Mr. Haviland, Mr. Tompkins. For Dutchess. Mr. P. Schenck, Mr. Livingston, Mr. De Lavergne. For Ulster. Colonel Hasbrouck, Major Parks. For King's. Mr. Polhemus. For Queen's. Colonel BlackiveU, Captain Lawrence. For Richmond. Mr. Conner, Mr. Journey. For Charlotte. Colonel Malcom, Mr. Webster. For Tryon. Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper.



— — — — — —

A Certificate, dated 3 1st May, 1776, signed by David Jagger and John Barclay, two of the Members of the Committee o{ Hanover Precinct, Ulster County, appointed to inCompany of Militia taken from the Company commanded by Captain (which Company was divided by said Committee , into two Companies;) which Certificate returned and certified that James McBiide was duly elected Captain, James McClaughry Firet Lieutenant, Abraham Neely Second Lieutenant, and Andrew jYec/y Ensign. Ordered, That Commissions issue accordingly. spect the election of the Otficei-s of a

A sons

Letter from Governour Trumbull, explaining the reahe had not sooner answered the Letter of this

why

Ordered, That Daniel Goldsmith, the Jailer, apply to Mr. Roorback, the Barrackmaster, for two Benches and a Table for the use of the Mariners who are prisoners of war, and that Mr. Roorback supply him with those articles.

Congress of

Generals Putnam and Miff.in having complained to this Congress of the riotous and disorderly conduct of numbei-s of the inhabitants of this City, which had led this day to

" Sir I received your letter of the 12th December ultimo, and paid a particular regard to the contents but the subjectmatter being of publick concern, by the usage and custom of this Colony I was not warranted to give an answer before the same was laid before the General Assembly, which was When the Assembly met I early soon after to convene. laid your two letters before them. They appointed a Comtake into consideration mittee to the subject-matter of your

*

Manifest of the cargo of Sloop liesoliition, John ffiithaway Master, 40 bbls. Oil 10 bbls. of Beef; 57 bbls. Flour; 3 bbls. pickled Codfish; 9 kegs butter Biscuit; 39 bush. Wheat ; 85 lbs. Butter.

for I'rovulence, viz:

City

o/Nhw-YonK

;

:

John Hathaiuay, Master of Sloop {iesohition, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that the above manifest is a just and true account of all the cargo he hath or will take on board said vessel from this city in this his intended voyage to Providence. And further saith not.

JoHs Hathawat.

Sworn

this

11th June, 1776, before

me:

Andrew Gautilb,

Justice.

Manifest of cargo onboard Ship lielsy &ni PoUy,\\z: 179 bbls. Beef; bbls. Pork; 200 Shakes; 136 tierces, 49 bbls., and 12 hhds. Bread; Hams 405 bbls. Flour ; 120 kegs of Bread ; 28 bo.^e3 sperm Candles; 150 Boards. .Ioun Htlton.

219

19 bbls. and tierces

The above sworn

;

to before

me

this 11th

day of June, 1776

:

Fkanuis FiiKiN, Mderman.

read,

last

winter relative to the people of Connecticut

away James Rivington's Types, was

carrying

and

is

in

received and

the words following, to wit " Hartford, June 10, 1776.

:

;

who

never

made

report until near the close of the hurry and multiplicity of important business then crowding, their report was passed over without the Assembly making any resolve thereon. On my return home I found the unhappy omission but as the Asletters,

Assembly, and

in the

;

sembly had the matter under consideration, I could not, with propriety, make any answer thereto therefore, of necessity, it was delayed till the sitting of this Assembly; and can, gentlemen, give you the strongest assurance that the delay in answering those letters was not from any disregard to your respectable body, nor for want of inclination to cul;

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1399

harmony between this and the Province and you may be assured nothing shall be wanting on our part to restore and effect the same. '' Your candour in imputing the intrusion of a number of our people into your capital (in the manner they did) to an imprudent, though well-intended, zeal for the publick cause, gives me real pleasure, and can give you the strongest assurance that this Colony by no means approve their conduct; yet a severe censure at this time upon tliem, in this unhappy and enervated state of (Jovernment, might be attended with such inconveniences as you will readily apprehend, and would be needless for me to point out, and which, I dare say, will suggest to you at once a satisfactory excuse for our not taking such measures as might have been expected in times of peace and quiet, though, in such happy seasons, the proper resort for the private injury must have been to the courts of law, which are the only jurisdiction who can legally take notice of violences of this kind. As to the pub-

1776.

1400

tivate the utmost

fore,

you represent

County Committee, which would protect them from any further interruption.

;

,

you candidly extenuate by saying that it was in the darkness of night, which would be accompanied with terror, though we by no means approve or justify the people of this Colony taking any part therein but the same candour you have expressed in your letter, I presume, will induce you to view the matter, so far as it respects this Colony, or any of our people being concerned therein, in a still more favourable light, when you reflect that the head or leader of the whole transaction was a reinsult,

lick

noonday, not

;

spectable

member

of your City and Congress,

whom

whom we con-

whole transaction is imputable, and who belongs and is amenable to your jurisdiction alone, and therefore the affair cannot be considered as an intrusion of our people into your Province, but as a violence or disorder happening among yourselves, and not an intrusion from another Co'ony; and you have the power to compel the gentleman we point out to return and restore that property which was taken away by such methods as you think most proper. Care was taken that the person of Mr. Seabury, who was brought into this Colony, was released and set at liberty. " Your desire signified to us to prevent any of the people of this Colony from entering into yours for the like purposes, unless invited by your Provincial Congress or Committees, we esteem very reasonable, and you may rely upon it we do and shall discountenance and endeavour to prevent any such like incursions. "The approbation you express, in your other letter of the same date, of our people on request affording you their assistance in Westchester County, and which came to hand at the same time, gives us much pleasure, and shall be ready sider as the proper person to

tiie

every friendly aid. said on the subject of your letter will prove satisfactory, both as to the matter and the occasion of delay in not sooner giving you an answer ; and we hope every jealousy may be removed, and that the most friendly at all times to afford

"

We

hope what

is

harmony and intercourse may be renewed and kept up between this Assembly and your Provincial Congress, and with whom we sincerely wish to hold the most free and amicable correspondence, especially at this time of common danger and oppression and am, with esteem and regard, sir, your most obedient, humble servant, ;

"Jonathan TimivrBULL.

"To

the Honourable iVar/wrti'e/ /('oo(//tM//."

Ordered, That Mr. Sands and Captain Denning be a Committee to wait on General IFctshington, and ascertain whether he will have further occasion for the attendance of five Commissioners now at the posts in the Highlands and also, whether the Company of Minute-men, from Orange ;

advised the said Fishermen to procure certificates from

(Queen's

A Petition of Mangle Minthorne, who was advertised, praying to he restored,* was read: Ordered, That the said Petition be referred to Alderman Brasher and Mr. Peter P. Van Zandt. On

request of Colonel McDougall, Resolved, That i\Ir. Israel Evans be, and he is hereby, appointed Chaplain to Colonel McDougaH's and Colonel Ritzema''s Regiments. Resolved, That if Mr. William Tapp shall inlist twenty

men shall

twenty days for Captain Van Wyck's Company, he thereupon be entitled to and receive the appointment

in

of Second Lieutenant.

McDougall produced

Colonel

to

Congress an Order of

the General, that Recruiting Officers should have 1 J Dollar for recruiting fees, and requested to know whether this

Congress will grant a like allowance to the Officers of his Regiment, and direct the Auditor accordingly. Colonel McDougall also made a Report of the First Regiment of Troops raised in this Colony for the Continental service under his command which was read and filed. Ordered, That Mr. Jay and Mr. Hobart be, and they are hereby, appointed two of the Members of the Committee appointed by this Congress to execute certain Resolutions of this Congress of the 5th instant, relative to persons dangerous and disaffected to the American cause, and to persons of equivocal character; and that Colonel Remsen, whose necessary attention to the affairs of his Battalion engrosses the greater part of his time, be discharged from the said Committee. And it is further Ordered, That all the Members of the said Committee do attend this Congress to-morrow morning, and take the oaths in and by the said Resolution pre;

scribed.

A sub-Committee from the Committee of the City and County of jVew- I'orfr, attending, requesting permission to inspect the Minutes of Congress

f Ordered, That Mr. McKesson furnish the said sub-Committee with an abstract of the information they require.

A

:

Letter from his Excellency General Washington was is in the words following, to wit

received and read, and

" Head-Quarters,

" Sir:

June

13, 1776.

am

informed that a number of persons on LongIsland (by character not the most friendly to the cause of the United Colonies) have in their hands considerable quantities of pork and other provisions, which they refuse to part with I

Continental

for

conduct

still

bills.

They may have

more detrimental

;

your Congress which are much

other reasons for their

and therefore

I

must beg the

interposition of

in

this matter, so as to pre-

vent the evils

to

be apprehended.

To the Provincial Congress in the Province of New-Yohk. The Memurial of Masolb Mintuohnf. humbly shoiuelh : That some short time before the publication of a Resolve of the Continental Congress, regulating, among other articles, the price of Jiohea tea, and fixing the same at six shillings the pound, he purchased a quantity of ISohea tea of Captain Deal; that the said tea cost him more than *

the price affixed as aforesaid by the Continental Congress; that said sold the said lea at a higher price (since the publication of the resolve of the Continental Congress, which took away the power from the several respective Committees of regulating any articles except green tta) than was stipulated by said Congress; that in so doing he looked upon himself as only acting similarly to others, and not the least degree inimical to his country ; th.it he professes the highest respect for the Continental Congress; and as he has, by the Committee of this City, been advertised in the publick Gazette as an enemy to this country for selling said tea as aforesaid, (a stigma which he would ever wish to avoid,) he hereby declares that he is sorry for the same that he did it ignorantly ; and that he humbly hopes this Congress will, by reinstating him in the good opinion of his fellow-citizens, put it once more in his power to convince them how much he is a friend to the liberties and privileges of .Jmovca. Manble Minthokne.

Minthorne has

;

County

Militia,

now

at those Fortifications,

may

not be dis-

charged.

And whereas it is represented to this Congress that the men of Colonel Ritzema's Regiment cannot procure their pay, and that they are mutinous for want of it Therefore, Ordered, That Captain Denning and Mr. Sands be a Committee to call on Colonel Ritzema to know

jIn Committee-Chamber,

:

why

his

men

are not paid.

Four Fishertnen were, by

request, admitted.

They

sta-

have permission from the people of Islin, in Suffolk County, to fish in their Ray; but that the people of Huntington hinder them from bringing their fish down the Bay, or crossing towards New- York. The President, there-

ted that they

New- York,

June 13, 1776.

The General Committee for this City and County request the favour of the honourable Provincial Congress to permit them a sight of their Minute-Book or Journal since the second Tuesday in J\Tay last, which The Congress, if necessary, shall be safely returmd in a lew minutes. will be pleased to send the same by a messenger from their own body, will have it in his power to prevent the Committee from seeing such Minutes as the Congress may think proper to conceal. By order of the Committee: Robert Harpur, Deputy Chairman.

who

To

the

Hon.

the Provincial Congress of the

Colony of

J^/c-w- I'ork.

NEW- YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1401 "The

Commissary-General will purchase all and give thein Contiiicntal

sions at yooci prices

Gold and for the

and

none.

silver lie has

Army; and

live in

exposed

The

provisions are

the puhlick by leaving

pay.

wanted

are well-wishers to the cause,

situations, will, unduul)ledly,

The

dispose of them.

who

those

their provihills in

be glad

them

in

the hands of

ent complexion, are too obvious to need animadversion. " I have had your report respecting the obstruction of the

Hudson River under

navigation of the

pursuing measures to carry ble despatch.

"With humble "

it

all

in the name and by the authority of Congress, to send forward the Militia, agreeably to the requisition of Congress; and that you will do it with all the despatch which ihe infinite impoi'tanco of the cause demands.

"

great respect, I remain,

the President

sir,

"To

your most obedient,

George Washington. of the New- York Congress."

;

;

;

;

Thursday afternoon, June

1.3,

1776.

General WoodkuU, President. For New-York. General Scott, Mr. Hallett, Colonel Brasher, Colonel Remsen, Mr. Bancker, Mr. Jay, Mr. Randall, Captain Denning. For Westchester. Mr. Haviland, Colonel G. Drake. And from tlie other Counties, the same Members as in



the forenoon.

possible.

A

Letter from the Honourable Johi Hancock, Esq., enclosing a Resolution of die Continental Congress, that all the Troops raised in the filiddle Colonies shall have the same

pay as those raised in the Eastern Colonies, was received and read. Another Letter from the same, giving advice of the approach of a British Fleet and Army, under command of General Howe, was received and read, and is in the words following, to wit " Philadelphia,

Gentlemen The Congress have :

Howe

to

fully

make an

The

as possible.

convinced, that

it is

attack upon the city

June

II, 1776.

day received adthe design of General of j\ew- York as soon this

attack, they have reason to believe, will

I am therefore most eai'nestly to be made within ten days request you, by order of Congress, to call forth your Militia, as requested in my letter of the 4th instant, and to forward them with all despatch to the city of New- York, and that ;

you

direct

them

to

march

in

companies, or

in

any other way

"The important day is at hand which will decide not only the fate of the city of New- York, hut, in all probabiOn such an occasion there is lity, of the whole Province. no necessity to use arguments with Americans. Their feelknow, will prompt them to their duty, and the sacredness of the cause will urge them to the field. " The greatest exertion of vigour and expedition are requisite to prevent our enemies from getting possession of ings, I well

town

;

I

must, therefore, again most earnestly request

June

II, 1776.

Letters be immediately w ritten

by express

Pjy

to the several Colonics,

the

who

are to furnish Militia for the defence o{ New- York, acquaintthem with the necessity of forwarding their supplies with

ing

possible despatch. ^

all

'

,, "

, John





»

.

H-kticocK, rresiaent.

,>

Ordered, That the said Letter be immediately communicated to General Scott, and that he be desired immediately to take the most effectual measures for expediting the service required of this Colony.

Congress have been informed by the Conand have great reason to believe that an Colony will shortly be made: Resolved, unanimously. That it be, and it is hereby, rethis

tinental Congress,

invasion of this

commended

to all the Officers of Militia of this Colony to review the same, and give orders that they prepare themselves, and be ready to march whenever they may be called upon. Ordered, That the foregoing Resolutions be published In the puhlick Newspapers, and printed in Handbills to be

distributed.

On

motion of Mr. seconded by Colonel Remsen, Resolved, unanimously. That the President, and five or more JMembers of this Congress, for the time being, be authorized to order out such detachments of the IMiliiia of this County, or of the two Independent Battalions, as they may think necessary, to suppress Riots or tumultuous meetings in this City, at any time when this Congress are not convened. ,

Ordered, That the Barrackmaster cause as many of the upper Barrack Rooms to be cleared out and put in order as Colonel Malcom may direct, for the reception of his Regiment. Die Veneris, 9 ho. A. M., June

The Congress met

14, 1776.

pursuant to adjournment.

Present: General IVoodhull, President. IMr. P. Livingston, Mr. Bancker, Col. Remsen, Mr. Sands, Mr. Hallctt, Captain Rutgers, Captain Denning, Colonel Brasher, Mr. Randall. For Albany. Colonel Rensselaer, Mr. Gansevoort. For Queen's. Colonel Blackivell, Mr. Laurence. For King's. Mr. Polhemus.



— — — For Ulster. —Colonel Hasbrouck, Major Parks. For Westchester. — G. Drake, Mr. Mr. Haviland. For Richmond. —Mr. Mr. For Charlotte. —Mr. For Suffolk. —Gen. Woodhull, For Dutchess. —Mr. James Mr.jDe Paul Schenck. For Orange. — Mr. For Tryon. — Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper. Colonel

Tomj)kins,

Journey,

Conner.

Webster.

ilr. Tredwcll, IMr. Strong. Livingston, Laverscne,

IMr.

Little.

Resolved, That

all Proceedings by the Loan Officers of County of New-York, against all pei-sons who owe interest on the principal sums by them borrowed of the Colony, be stayed until the third Tuesday in April next; the securities taken for the payment of the said principal sums remaining also subject to the payment of the said arrear of interest. *

the City and

that will hasten their arrival there.

that

.sent

For New-York.

Mr. James Beckman obtained leave of absence to escort his lady and family to Kingston, and to return as soon as

and are

That

President.

New-York.'^

" In CongrcBS,

" Resolved,



vices,

the Honourable Convention of

Whereas

Captain Denning and Mr. Sands, the Committee appointed to call on General Washington, returned, and reported that the General has, or will have, an Engineer at the Fortifiand says he will not have occasion cations in the Highlands for the further service of the Commissioners there, as he will take the sole direction of those Fortifications that such Minute-men as are employed at those Fortifications (only as Minute-men) may be discharged, but that none who are inlisted as Continental Troops in Captain IVisner's Company be discharged Resolved, therefore. That the Commissioners employed to superintend the Fortifications in the Highlands be, and they are hereby, discharged from that service, as being employed by or under direction from this Congress and that all such Minute-men as are employed at the Fortifications, only as Minute-men, be immediately discharged but that any men who are inlisted as Continental Troops in Captain Wisner's Company, be not discharged.

:

gentlemen, your most obedi-

am

neclicut.

Present

to be,

"John Hancock,

possi-

Ordered, That Mr. Hallctt and Mr. Brasher be a Committee to wait on Jonathan Trumbull, Esq., the CommissaryGeneral, and ascertain in whose possession the Pork is; and also inquire what has become of the Pork purchased in Co7i-

"

have the honour

I

ent and very humble servant,

President, and

servant,

To the Hon.

consideration, and

into execution with

1402

you,

to

may result to men of a differ-

disadvantages which

1776.

•jXew-Yobk, June

14, 1776.

Sin : By the request of Mr. Theodoras Van ll'yck, an officer who is out of town, I am desired to acquaint you that to-morrow morning will be exposed, in puhlick advertisement, the houses and lands of such persons who have not paid their interest money; and many say they have it not in their power, and if their estates are sold, will be the ruin of them and

You will, therefore, be pleased to mention it in Conhe may know how to act; .and, in so doing, you will your very humble servant. For Mr. Theodoriis Van Wvck, AsRiHiM Va.v Wtck, DepH Loan Officer. Colonel Henry Remsen, their families.

gress, so as that oblige,

To

sir,

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1403

A

mitted to be inoculated for the Small-Pox

;

some Guns

and, also, that

Ordered, That Philip Livingston, Esq., delay his return Congress, and attend the business of this Congress until further order.

may

to the Continental

this

cords,

of

and continue

till

City-Hall, and praying to be liberated, was read. J Ordered, That the said Letters be referred to a Committee to consist

.

the further order

That DirckWynlcoop, Esq., Colonel Abraham Hasbrouck Joseph Gusherie, and Christopher Tappan, be, and they are hereby, authorized and directed to provide a proper place for the said Records, and proper accommodations for the said

Deputy Secretary. That they have

the general superintendence of the said Records, and by guards, or otherwise, provide for their safety

That the said Deputy Secretary leave the Seal of the Supreme Court with a Deputy or one of his Clerks, and him

and do the

to seal Writs

common and

ordinary

business of the said Court.

That Mr. Robert Benson,

together with

Mr. Bayard, have

the direction of the removal of the said Records on board of a Sloop provided by Mr. James Beekman,

And

of Mr. Gansevoort and Mr. Laivrence.

Mr. Hallett, from the Committee appointed to call on Colonel TruwW/, Commissary-General, reports: That the said Committee waited on Colonel Trumbull, who informed them that no person was authorized to receive the Pork in questhat therefore the holders sold it. tion or pay for it Mr. Abraham Livingston, being called in and examined, That on being consulted by Colonel Trumbull relative says to the article of Pork, he informed Mr. Trumbull that there was, in his opinion, considerable quantities on Long-Island that he thought, and was confident in his own mind, that the reason why it was not disposed of, was from a dislike many persons here had to receiving Continental money, added to that those a desire of serving the British Fleet and Army persons, he believes, chiefly reside in (Queen's and Suffolk ;

:

;

Counties.

Mr. Livingston

Congress that he has head of horned fat Cattle on Sandy-Hook, and about one hundred more at or the whole of which he supposes to be near the Neversinks the property of Messrs. Hartshorn. Ordered, That Mr. Livingston s information relative to the Cattle on Sandy-Hook and the Neversinks, be communicated to the Congress of New-Jersey and General Washfurther informed the

reason to believe there

security.

direct

confined in Jail, de-

comply with the Resolve of Congress, and praying to be discharged, was read and filed, f Also a Letter from Renier Van Hoese, imprisoned in the

this Plouse.

and

W. Livingston,

Letter from John

claring his willingness to

afternoon.

to exercise his office

be discharged,

be convenient to the Officer.

A

Ordered, That Mr. Philip Livingston be, and he is hereby, appointed a Member of the Committee constituted by this Congress for the hearing and trial of disaffected persons, Mnd persons of equivocal ciiaracter, according to the Resolution of this Congress of the 5th of June instant. Ordered, That the administration of the Oath to be taken by the Members of the Committee above-mentioned, be Resolved, That the Publick Records of this Colony, now at the house o( Nicholas Bayard, Esq., be forthwith removed to Kingston, in Vkter County. That Samuel Bayard, Esq., the Deputy Secretary, be ordered and requested to go and remain with the said Re-

to

Ordered, That the Officer commanding the Guard at the City-Hall be requested to permit George Youngs to speak to his sons in custody this afternoon, but only in the presence and hearing of the Officers of the Guard, at such time as it

suit-

able for a Privateer.

postponed until

1404

some Officers with the Small-Pox, praying was read.* Ordered, That it lay on the table.

Letter from Brigadier-General Nathanacl Greene, 6ated

Camp on Long-Island, tiiis day, was received and filed.* He therein requests that his brother, Jacob Greene, be per-

in

the said Jacob have permission to purchase

1776.

Mr. Beekman, with Mr. Bayard, take care of them during the passage, and see them safely landed at Kingston, and committed to the direction of the aforesaid DirckWynkoop, Esq., Colonel Abraham Hasbrouck, Joseph Gusherie, and Christopher Tappan. that

Ordered, That if any persons committed to any Jail in Colony by order of this House, or any Committee thereof authorized to make such commitment, or any of the County Commissioners, escape from the custody of the Jailer, by design or negligence of the said Jailer or Jailers to whom they may respectively be committed, the said Jailer or Jailers shall receive the treatment due to the offences whereof the persons so escaping stood charged. And to the end that the said Jailer may have all necessary Resolved, That the County Committees of the several Counties be, and they are hereby, authorized and required to inspect and cause the Jails in the several and respective Counties to be made safe and secure, and that this Congress will pay the expense thereof, and charge it to the account of said County. Ordered, That the foregoing Resolution be published.

at least sixty



ington.

To

*

Honourable Provincial Congress of the Province of

the

York, no-iu sitting in the City of Ntw-YoitK. The Petition of Azon Betts 7nost humbly showeth That your Petitioner hath been Jail of the City of

for

some time past confined

New-

:

in the

new

New- York.

confinement is, that he hath violated a resolve of the honourable Provincial Congress, he having inoculated some oiE-

That the cause of

his

ccrs in the service of this country.

this

assistance in securing their said Prisoners,

is

That your

meant not to injure those gentlemen who were show any contempt to your worshipful House, but

Petitioner

inoculated, nor to

ardently wished to render his best services to those who had the command in relieving them from those fears which people in general have who ate subject to that disorder. is extremely sorry for the offence he hath given countrymen, and your honouraljle body in particular, and prays that be released from his confinement, and suli'ered to go at large. And your Petitioner doth hereby promise and engage that he will not for the future, by word or deed, counteract the orders of your honourable House. And your Petitioner, as in duty bound, shall ever pray. Azor Betts. June 14, 1776.

That your Petitioner

his

he

may

To

the

Chairman of the Provincial Congress of

t New Jail, June 14, 1776. am ready to comply withtheordersof your House, and from my imprisonment. am, gentlemen, your very humble servant, John Wm. Livingston. the Provincial Congress.

Gentlemen: beg I

To

the City of jVeic-Torh.

I

to be released

On

motion of Mr. Jay, Ordered, That Colonel Brasher and Mr.

Committee

to

whom

was

Minturn, report thereon

The

Van Zandt,

referred the Petition of

the

Mangle



this afternoon.

Petition of Azor Belts, confined in the

new

Jail for

this Congress by inoculating •Camp on Lung-Island, June 14, 1776.

contravening a Resolution of

Sm

:

I

have a brother here from

Illiotle-Island,

(Mr. Jacob Greene,)

He is much that has an inclination to have the sniall-pox by inoculalion. He purposes to exposed often in tlie execution of the putiHcli business. go upon the Hospital Island, and there be inoculated, and stay till he is If the Congress can grant him this favour wilhout inproperly cleansed. juring the publick, shall esteem it a peculiar kindness. My brother also wants to purchase a few small cannon for a privateer. He begs the Congress permission for the same. The proprietors of the cannon think it necessary to obtain your consent before they dispose of them, notwithstanding they are private property. You will be kind enough to favour me with the resolution of the Congress upon the above requests, which will oblige your most obedient humble servant,

Natiianael Greene.

To

t New Citv-Hall, June 14, 1776. Gentlemen of the Honoiraele Provincial Congress of the CiTy of New-Youk: Sirs: These are to inform you that 1 have been I am in a the space of five months almost. confined here a great while sickly state of health at present, and just heard from my family that my wife is in a very melancholy state likewise, and should be willing to give any satisfaction in this life to have the liberty to return to my family with your Honours' leave. Sirs, if I understand the crime alleged against me, I was it is for being on board of his Majesty's ship Ifoss, which is true. pressed on board in Tihode-Island, and went down to Jioston, and upon been to .Vantuckct I made escape from have return my them, and my with my family since, till I was taken and put in jail; and now, gensee it in your I must beg that you will discharge if you can me tlemen, way, and I shall take leave to subscribe myself your humble servant, Rtner Van Hoese.

JV. Woodhull, Esq., President of the Congress.

P. S.

Gentlemfn

:

It

was some time

in

February

that

I

was

in

Bos-

and I did not know that I was committing a crime worthy of four or five months' imprisonment at that time; and now, gentlemen, I beg with submission that you will let me go home to my family once more while I am alive, for I am afraid that I shall not continue a great ton, in 1775,

while in

To

this place.

the Honourable Provincial Congress.

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1405 Whereas

Congress have good reason to l)elicve that Long-Island liave in store, and imve refused great quantities of salted Pori

Dutchess.

For

the ^ijirmative.

8 New- York, 2 Richmond.



10 votes.

June 25, 1776.

pursuant to adjournment.

John Haring Esq., President pro tern. General Scott, Colonel Remsen, Mr. Randall, Mr. Bancker, Colonel Broome. For Albany. Mr. Gansevoort. For Richmond. Mr. Cortelyou, Mr. Conner. For Tryon. Mr. Moore, Mi'. Harper. For Ulster. Major Parks, Colonel Hasbrouck. For Orange. Mr. Haring, Colonel Allison, ]VIr. Pye. For Charlotte. Major Webster. For Suffolk. Mr. Hobart, Mr. Tredwell, Mr. Wickham. For Dutchess. Colonel Graham, Mr. Schenck, Mr. De Lavergne. For Westchester. Colonel L. Graham. For Cumberland. Colonel Marsh. Present

:



For New-York.

— — — — — — — —

— —

The Letter from Colonel John Field, relative to the drafted men in the County o( Dutchess, who refuse to serve, was, agreeable to order of this morning, taken into consideration and

after

some time spent

was

therein,

mittee, consisting of Colonel

referred to a

M. Graham,

Com-

Colonel Allison,

and Mr. Wickham.

Malcom produced

Colonel ferent

Companies

in

his

a list of Officers of three difRegiment, for whom he requests

Conmiissions, to wit

Prussian Blues: Henry Brasher Captain, Walter Moffat Lieutenant, John I. Myer Second Lieutenant. Hearts-of-Oak : John Meeks Captain, Samuel Fleming First Lieutenant. Caledonian Rangers : Robert Smith Captain, John Hunter Lieutenant, Daniel Neavan Second Lieutenant.

Light Infantry

Manly

:

First Lieutenant.

Ordered, That Commissions be issued men. And they were issued accordingly.

to those gentle-

General Scott informed the Congress that he has waited his Excellency General Washington, and conferred with him on the subject of small Cannon for Privateers that his Excellency desired him to inform the Congress that the Merchants and others are at liberty to take away and make use of any of the four-pound Cannon.

on

;

Wednesday morning, June

The Congress met

26, 1776.

pursuant to adjournment.

John Haring, Esq., President pro tern. Mr. Livingston, Mr. Randall, Colonel Broome, Colonel Remsen, (Mr. Jay on Committee,) Mr. Sands, Mr. Bancker, Mr. Van Zandt. For Albany. Colonel Rensselaer. For Ulster. Colonel Hasbrouck, Major Parks. For Orange. Mr. Haring, Mr. Pye, Colonel Allison. For Tryon. J\lr. Moore, Mr. Harper. For Sutfolk. Mr. Tredwell, Mr. Wickham. For Charlotte. Mr. Webster. For Dutchess. Mr. Schenck, Mr. De Lavergne, Colonel M. Graham. For Westchester. Colonel L. Graham. Mr. 31orris on Committee. Present

:

For New-York.



— — — — — — —



Colonel McDougall requested that the last order he received from the Congress on the Commissary for Arms for his Regiment, may be continued for one week longer.

Thereupon, Ordered, That lonel

McDougall,

have

in store in

or his order,

JMr. all

Aortcood deliver

the

Arms he

to

Co-

has, or

may

the course of three weeks from the date of

Colonel Ritzema' s

last order.

Mr. Sands delivered in a Certificate, signed by three of the Members of the Committee of Pay-Table which, being read, is in the words following: ;

"

We,

the subscribers, a

pointed by the certify that

4

1430

P. M., Die Martis,

The Congress met

;

For

1776.

we

Committee of Pay-Table, ap-

Kcw-York

Provincial Congress, do hereby have examined the Accounts of Mr. Peter

Curtcnius, as Commissary, for necessaries furnished, his

com-

he, as we find

per his account and vouchee left with us, and that a balance of £4,469 8s. \d., due to him the Sth day of June instant. '•'Comfort Sands, missions,

"

"New-York,June8, 1776."

Evert Bancker,

"J.\C0BUS

Van ZaNDT."

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS,

1431

Thereupon, Ordered, That Peter Van B. Livingston, Esq., as Treasurer of the Provincial Congress of this Colony, pay unto Peter Curtenius the sum of £4,469 8s. \d.,

being the balance due to him on the 8th instant for sundry purchases as Commissary to the Congress of this Colony, agreeable to a Certificate of the Committee of Pay-Table,

dated the 8th instant.

A

Letter from the Honourable John Hancock, dated the instant, enclosing a Resolve of Congress of the 24th instant, declaring that all persons abiding within any of the

25th

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, visiting, or making a temporary stay in any of the said Colonies beincr entitled to the protection of the laws during the time of such passage, visitation, or temporary stay, owe, during persons, iTiembers

same time, allegiance thereto that all owing allegiance to, any of the United Colonies as aforesaid described, who shall levy war against any of the said Colonies within the same, or be adherent to the King of Great Britain, or others, the enemies of the said Colonies, or any of them, within the same, giving to him or them the

;

of, or

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 persons, before described, as shall be proveably attainted of open deed, by people of their condition, of

any of the treasons before described.

That

abet

in

counterfeiting, the Continental Bills of Credit, or

such bill in payment, knowing such a bill to be a counterfeit, were respectively read and filed. Ordered, That Mr. Scott, Colonel Brasher, Mr. Hallett, Colonel Broome, and Major Parks, be a Committee to take

who

shall pass



Dr. John Jones and Mr. Thomas PearsaU (two governers of the Hospital of the City) informed the

they have

in store

about

£30

sterling

House

that

worth of Medicines,

that of the said Hospital Dr. Morgan, Director-General of the Continental Hospital, has applied to them for the said Medicine, for the use of the Continental Hospital, and that he will pay a reasonable price

which were intended

for the use

Dr. Jones the same. advice of Congress in this Agreed, as the opinion Medicine ought not to be

;

and Mr. PearsaU request the

for

in this

certain Joh7i Leaver, from

Tryon County, attending,

requested a Passport to go to Pennsylvania; and the Members of said County representing him a friend to ihe Ameri-

can cause, the following Certificate was given to him, to wit " This Congress having received satisfactory information Mr. John Leaver, is a friend to the cause

that the bearer,

of America, therefore he

is

permitted to pass unmolested."

as also of those at the Fortifications in the Highlands, and elsewhere in this Colony, be, and they are hereby, permitted to dispose of the same.

Whereas it has been represented to this Congress that the Committee o( Albany have sent certain inhabitants of that City and County prisoners to Hartford, in Connecticut, viz Abraham Cuyler, Henry Cuyler, Stephen He Luncey, John Duncan, Benjamin Hilton, and John Monier; Resolved, That the said Committee be requested to make

known

to thisCongress their proceedings against said persons,

and the misdemeanours with which they stand charged. Ordered, That the President enclose a certified copy of the said Resolution in a Letter to the

mittee of the

Chairman of

the

Com-

County o{ Albany.

Colonel Rensselaer and Colonel Broome are appointed a to inquire what number of Prisoners are come from Long-Island, and which were taken from on board the Ship taken on the south side of Long-Island, and which

Committee

and how many of them are Commissioned

A

Officers.

Letter from Abel Belknap, Chairman at a meeting of

Newburgh and A'ew-

the Committees of the Precincts of

conjunction, dated 24th instant, wherein they

in

represent that the said Precincts are destitute of

Gunpowder,

and request a supply of that article, as also that of Lead. Captain Isaac Belknap, who was sent down with the said Letter, was called in, and requested to inform the said Committees that the Congress have it not in their power to send them any supply of Gunpowder now, but that they expect a quantity hourly, and that the said Committees may rest assured that this Congress will send them a supply of Powfiret

arrival

of that

article.

who

march any men to be drafted out of their respective Companies, and the Resolve of a Sub-Committee of the said County thereon. The same being read, was unanimously agreed to. Thereupon, Resolved, That whereas information hath been given to this Congress that certain Captains in Colonel Lvjdington^s Regiment of Militia, in Dutchess County, have refused to draft, or permit drafts to be made, out of their respective Companies, for the purpose of completing the Brigade of Militia to be raised in this County for the Continental service, as recommended by this Congress in pursuance of the Resolves of the Continental Congress of the 1st, Sd, and of Militia also of

two

in

Dutchess County, and

certain Captains

who

refuse to

refuse to permit

4th instant Resolved, That the General Committee of the said County be requested to make inquiry into the premises and upon ;

due proof of the charge against the said Captains, to send them under proper guard to this Congress, to be dealt with according to their deserts.

And Wednesday

The

of the same

Therefore, Ordered, That the proprietors of any of the four-pound Cannon now lying at or near King's Bridge,

Colonel Allison delivered in the Report of the Committee appointed to take into consideration the Letter from Colonel John Field, relative to the men drafted out of his Regiment

dispensation from his attendance as a

A

to dispose

der on the

Congress, and that he have a Member of the Committee appointed to carry into execution certain Resolves of this Congress relative to persons dangerous and disaft'ected to the American cause, after next Saturday.

attendance

Frequent application having been made to this Congress by many of the inhabitants of this City, being proprietors of the Cannon at King's Bridge and elsewhere in this Colony, for permission to dispose of the same, and his Excellency General Washington having signified his approbation that the proprietors of all the four-pound Cannon be at liberty

of this Congress, That the said disposed of, but reserved for the

Philip Livingston, Esq., represented to Congress that his attendance at Continental Congress is necessary, and that, with permission of this House, he intends to set out for Philadelphia next Sunday. Thereupon, Besolved, That Mr. Livingston be discharged his

Colonel

matter.

use of the poor and other inhabitants of this City.

from

— — — —

Windsor,

the said Resolves into consideration.

1432

1776.

For Suffolk. Mr. Tredivell, Mr. M'lckham. For Dutchess. Mr. De Lavergne, Mi. Schenck, M. Graham. For Charlotte. Mr. Webster, Colonel Malcom. For Cumberland. Colonel Marsh.

it

be recommended to the Legislatures of the several United Colonies to pass laws for punishing, in such manner as they shall think fit, persons who shall counterfeit, or aid or

JUNE,

Congress met pursuant

to

afternoon, June 26, 1776.

adjournment.

whereas

this

Congress being also informed that some

of the Troops already drafted in the said County have refused to

march

;

John Haring, Esq., President pro tern. For New-York. Mr. Livingston, Colonel Remscn, Mr.

Therefore, Resolved, That it be recommended to the Brigadier-General and the General Committee of the said

Randall, Colonel Stoulenburgh, General Scott. For Albany. Colonel Rensselaer, Mr. Gansevoort. For Orange. Mr. Haring, Mr. Pye. For Richmond. Mr. Conner, Mr. Cortelyou. For Ulster. Colonel Hasbrouck, Major Parks, For Westchester. Mr. Morris, Mr. Paulding, For Tryon. Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper,

County

Present

:



— — — — — —

most speedy measures to complete thousand Militia to be raised in this the Resolves of this Congress of the

to pursue the

their quotas of the three

Colony, agreeable to 7th instant, and to forward their march with all possible speed, and make return to this Congress of the names of all such persons as neglect or refuse to comply with the aforesaid Resolve.

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1433

Ordered, That a certified copy of the aforegoinc; Resolutions be immediately transmitted to the General Committee of Dutchess County. Thursday morning, June 27, 1776.

The

Congress met pursuant

Present

:

to

adjournment.

John Haring, Esq., President pro

For New-York.

tern.

—Colonel Stoutcnburgh, Colonel Broome,

Halktt.

— — — Graham. For Richmond. —Mr. Mr. For Suffolk. — Mr. TredweU,MT. Wickhum. For Orange. — Mr. Haring, Mr. Pye, Colonel For Tryon. —Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper. For Ulster. — Hasbrouck, Major Parks. For Westchester. —Mr. Colonel M. Graham, Mr. Paulding. For Queen's. —Colonel For Charlotte. —Mr. For Cumberland. —Colonel Marsh. For Albany. Colonel Rennselacr, Mr. Gansevoort. For King's. Mr. Polhemus. For Dutchess. Mr. Schenck, Mr. De Lavergne, Colonel Cortelyou.

Allison.

Colonel

Morris,

Blackwell. Webster.

The Committee

of Pay-Table requested the opinion of

Congress whether the forty-eight men which Colonel Lasher was requested to furnish to guard the Records of this Colony, was meant exclusive of Officers.

the sake of being discharged from his present confinement, that he might, as he is indisposed, have an opportunity of

going into the country for the benefit of the fresh air. Thereupon, Ordered, That he be remanded to Jail until the further order of this Congress.

Colonel Van Brunt delivered and Second Lieutenant for the

quota of the Militia of the said County to reinforce the ConArmy at New- York, to w it Jacques Rapalye Captain, and George Carpenter Second Lieutenant. Ordered, That Commissions be issued. And they were :

issued accordingly.

Ordered, That Captain William Mcrcier and Captain John Berrian be, and are hereby, authorized and requested to inquire and obtain intelligence and proof of, and make an inventory and account of, all the Cannon, Cannon-Ball, Shells, and other Military Stores, belonging to and now in this Colony, or which have by any means been taken out of this Colony for the use of the Continent or in the Continental service, particularly specifying the weight, number, and value

of each.

Ordered, That Jonathan Holmes be, and he is hereby, appointed Second Lieutenant in Captain Ricker's Company, in Colonel Ritzema's Regiment, on condition that he join the said Regiment, with sixteen able-bodied men, in fourteen

for

Colonel McDougall informed the Congress that 10^. ProPennsylvania money, equal to 10s. 8d. New-York money, is allowed to the Officers inlisting in other Colonies vincial or

each Recruit. Ordered, That the like allowance be paid to the Officers of the Continental Regiments in this Colony for each Recruit

who

days from this day. Ordered, That a Warrant be issued to Mr. Holmes on the conditions as above-mentioned.

A

motion was made by Mr. Morris,

in

the words follow-

Ashfield,

move that Augustus Van Horn, Vincent Pierce Thomas W. Moore, and John L. C. Roome, be

sent for

and, upon their signing the Association and giving

:

;

I

security to

appearand answer

to the charges brought against

them, that they be discharged. Debates arose on the said motion put,

that

was

it

is

for

and the question being

;

carried in the affirmative, in the

to say

For

4 Westchester, 2 Richmond, 2 King's, 5 Dutchess, 3 Orange Col. Allison dissenting.



shall pass muster.

Thursday afternoon, June 27, 1776.

The Congress met

pursuant to adjournment.

John Haring, Esq., President pro tem. Colonel Broome, Mr. Halktt, Mr. Van Cortlandt, Mr. Randall. For Albany. Colonel Rensselaer. For King's. Mr. Polhemus. For Tryon. Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper. For Dutchess. ^Mr. Schenck, Colonel M. Graham, Mr. Present

:

For New-York.



— — — — De Lavergne. For Queen's.—Co\one\ For Suffolk. — Mr. Mr. Wickham. For Orange. —Mr. Haring, Colonel For Charlotte. —Mr. For Ulster. —Colonel Hasbrouck, Major Parks. For Westchester. — L. Graham, Mr. Paulding. For Richmond. —Mr. Mr. For Cumberland. —Colonel Marsh. Blackwell.

:

the .iffirmative.



manner following,

Return of the Captain men, being the

a

fifty-eight

tinental

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Congress, that the guard of forty-eight men, which Colonel Lasher was requested to furnish to guard the Records, was intended to be fortyeight Privates, exclusive of Officers.

ing, viz

1434

and did respectively give security to appear and answer to any charges against them as inimical to the cause and rights of America. Therefore, Ordered, That the said A. Van Horn, V. F. Ashfield, and Thomas W. Moore, be discharged. The said John L. C. Roome, on the said Association being tendered to him, declared that it was against his conscience to sign the same and that if he did, it would be only for ;

Mr. Randall, Mr. Van Cortlandt, Mr. P. Livingston, Mr.

Conner,

1776.

3 2 8 2



Tredivell,

the J\'egative.

Allison.

Tryon, CliarloUe,

Webster.

[dissenting,

New-Yorls— Mr. Randall Cumberland,

Colonel Conner,

15 votes.

16 votes. Ulster divided.

The

Cortelyou.

Letter received yesterday from Colonel Reed, Adju-

Thereupon, Resolved and Ordered, That Messrs. Augustus Van Horn, Vincent Pierce Ashfield, Thomas W. Moore, and John I^. C. Roome, be immediately brought before this Congress in custody of the Jailer.

tant-General, informing Congress that JohnAlner, a citizen

Mr. Halktt informed the Congress, at the request of ]\Ir. Lawrence Kortright, that i\Ir. Kortright has a certain num-

Guard

ber of

Guns

(six-pounders) at the Fortifications

in the

High-

lands and elsewhere; that sundry persons have applied to Mr. Kortright to purchase the said Guns, but that he chose, if

the General or Congress want them, to giv€ them the pre-

ference.

Mr. Kortright

requests, further, that if the General

or Provincial Congress shall please to retain them, that he may be paid such price for them as they may be reasonably

was taken in custody by the Guard at the ±\aron suspicion of having been on board the enemy's Ships at Sandy-Hook, and that he is now in custody of the

of

this City,

roivs,

at the City-Hall.

The

*

said Alner, being ordered into Congress,

He

ined.

at

first

was exam-

denied that he had been on board any of

but being strictly interrogated, acknowledged had been on board the enemy's Ships at the Hook. His examination, as taken by the Secretary, was read to hiin, and filed. And the said Alner was remanded to the custody of the said Guard. the said Ships

;

that he

Colonel Broome delivered

in a List

of the names of the

worth.

Officers and Soldiers taken on board the Transport

on the

Ordered, That Mr. Halktt and Mr. John Van Cortlandt be a Committee to confer with General Washington on the

back of Long-Lland, and who are now under guard City; which was read and filed.

in this

subject.

* Sib John .liner, a chizen of .A Vrf- Fori-, was taken up this morning The circumstances are so suspialone in a boat near the man-of-war. cious that it was not thought proper to discharge him but as his political character will be of weight on such an occasion, he is referred to your honourable body to be dealt with. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient humble servant, Joseph RTiD,.1djutant-GeJieral. :

Augustus Van Horn, Vincent P. Ashfield, Thomas W. Moore, and John L. C. Roome, attending at the door, were called in, and the Association, in and by the Resolutions of this Congress of the 20th instant, severally tendered to them whereupon the said A. Van Horn, V. P. Ashfield, and Thomas W. Moore, did each of them subscribe the same, ;

:

To the Hon.

the

Chairman of

the Provincial Congress, .,ye7!'-York\

NEW- YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1435

After some time spent in the consideration of the most proper place to send those Prisoners to for their future residence, it was agreed that the furliier consideration thereof be postponed until to-morrow morning. Friday morning, June 28, 1776.

The

Congress met pursuant to adjournment.

Present: John Hciring, Esq., President ^;ro tern. Mr. "Randall, Mr. Bancker, Mr.

For New-York.



in

General Washington^ s Letter, together with the opinion of several General Officers at a Council held on the subject of disatfected and dangerous persons, as also on the subject of removing or securing the stock of Cattle and Hoi-ses on Nassau and Statcn-Island , were respectively read and filed.

The

Letter from General Schuyler, dated Ji«ie 24th, 1776, relative to one Faulkner, of Tryon County, was read and filed.

Mr. Hallett reported that, agreeable to order, he waited upon General Washington, and conferred with him on the that his Excellency was subject of Mr. Kortright's Cannon pleased to inform him that he intends to retain such of Air. Kortrighfs Cannon as are fit for the publick use, and that he will provide for the payment of the same according to their value for which end he will direct a proper person to examine and ascertain their value, and request that Mr. Kortright employ some person for the same purpose. Ordered, That Mr. Hallett inform Mr. Kortright thereof. ;

;

Ordered, That Mr. Jacohus

;

Colony. Friday afternoon, June 28, 1776.

The

Congress met pursuant

to

adjournment.

John Haring, Esq., President pro tern. For New-York. Mr. Jay, Mr. Livingston, Mr. Hallett, Mr. Van Zandt, Mr. Randall, Colonel Broome. For Albany. Colonel Rensselaer, Mr. Gansevoort. For King's. Mr. Polhcmus, Mr. Leffertse. For Dutchess. Mr. Schenck, Mr. De Lavergne, Colonel Graham. For Richmond. Mr. Conner, Mr. Cortelyou. For Suffolk. Mr. Tredwell, Mr. IVickham. For Orange. Mr. Haring, Colonel Allison, Mr. Pye. For Tryon. Mr. Harper, Mr. Moore. For Cumberland. Colonel Marsh. For Ulster. Major Parks, Colonel Hashrouck. For Westchester. Colonel Graham, Mr. Paulding. For Queen's. Colonel Blackwell. For Charlotte. Mr. Webster. Present

:

in the



— —

— — — — — — — — — —

Mr. Jay, from the Secret Committee, brought into Conand Depositions of sundry persons taken by the said Committee which he ofl'ered to report to

gress the Examinations

words following, that

is

to say

New-York, June 27, 1776.

necessity of the most vigorous

and decisive

our present circumstances, will, 1 doubt not, justify, to your honourable body, the removal of the stock of cattle and horses from those parts of the coast most exposed After a long and fatiguing voyage they will to the enemy. measures,

in

need refreshments of this nature, and there is no doubt they will have them, if possible, on any terms. Common prudence, therefore, and a regard to our own safety, strongly evince the necessity of depriving them of such supplies as will enable them to act with more vigour and spirit against us. Though painful and disagreeable, it seems to be a measure which the great law of self-preservation now re-

quires.

"Enclosed, I transmit the unanimous Resolution of a Council of General Officers, advising such removal without delay, in which it is proposed to pay a suitable regard to the I flatter myself that, in a matter necessities of the people. of such importance and difficulty, the honourable body over wliich you preside will approve of the proposal, and carry it into execution, or co-operate with me in the most effectual steps for this purpose.

"

1

have the honour to be, with the greatest respect and sir, your obedient, humble servant,

regard,

" "

To

George Washington.

the Honourable the President of the Provincial

gress of

Con-

New- York." Resolution of the Council enclosed.

Van Zandt, Mr.

Randall, and Mr. Hallett, Members of the Marine Committee, be, and they are hereby, authorized and empowered to cause the Cargoes of the Prizes, Prize-Ships and Vessels lately taken and seized on the back o( Long- Island, and carried into FireIsland Inlet, to be transported to and stored in such place or places of security as they shall think proper and that they dispose and sell the same, when legally condemned, in such manner as to them shall appear to be most advantageous for the publick interest, and render a just and true account of such sales to this or a future Congress or Committee of Safety this

is

"Sir: The

A

of

former

" Head-Quarters,

Zandt, Mr. Hallett.

— — — — — — — — — — — —

1436

And Ordered, That Mr. Jay and Mr. Livingston remain Congress this afternoon.

Van

For Albany. Colonel Rensselaer, Mr. Gamevoort. For Queen's. Colonel Blackwell. For King's. Mr. Polhcmus. For Dutchess. Mr. Paul Schenck, Mr. De Lavergne, Colonel M. Graham. For Richmond. Mr. Conner, ]\Ir. Cortelyou. For Suffolk. Mr. IVickham, Mr. Trcdwcll. For Orange. Mr. Haring, Mr. Pye, Colonel Allison. For Tryon. Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper. For Ulster. Colonel Hashrouck, Major Parks. For Westchester. Colonel L. Graham, Mr. Paulding. For Charlotte. Mr. JVebster. For Cumberland. Colonel Marsh.

1776.

"In considering the

several matters

lency has been pleased to refer to

Long-Island

us,

and Staten-lsland, think

which your Excel-

we

it

do, with regard to

absolutely necessary,

for the safety and defence of this Colony, that all the stock of cattle and sheep (except such as may be requisite for the present subsistence of the inhabitants) be removed to a distance from the sea-coast, and that this be done immediately,

enemy, it will be impossible to give and also that all the horses be either removed, or put under such regulations as that they may be removed on the first approach of the enemy. And with regard to the disaffected inhabitants who have lately been apprehended, we think that the method at present adopted by the County Committees, of discharging them on their giving bonds as a security for their good behaviour, is very improper and ineffectual, and therefore recommend it to your Excellency to apply to the Congress of this Province to take some more effectual method of securing the good behaviour of those people, and in the mean time that your Excellency will order the officer in whose custody they are, to discharge no more of them until tlie sense of Congress be had as,

on the

arrival of the

attention to this matter

;

"

thereon.

" "

William Heath, Joseph Spencer, Nathanael Green,

" Stirling.

"June

27, 1776."

Thereupon, Ordered, That Mr. Wickham, Mr. Cornier, Mr. Tredwell, Colonel Blackwell, and Mr. Leffertse, be a Committee, to confer with his Excellency General Washington on the subject of removing or securing the Cattle and Stock from such parts of Nassau and Statcn-Island as are most exposed to invasion and that they have power to co;

operate with his Excellency in carrying into execution all such measures as they may, in conjunction with him, concert

;

the House, with their proceedings.

Mr. Jay informed Congress that the said Committee have not gone through the whole of the business to which they were appointed, and requested leave to sit again which leave was accordingly given. And as the House is very much engaged in other necessary business Ordered, That the reading of the said Examinations and ;

Depositions, as well as the receiving of the said Report, be

postponed

for the present.

and adopt for that purpose. And Ordered, That the same Committee confer with the General on the subject of his application contained in Colonel Reed's Letter relative to disaffected persons, who are now or may be in the custody of any of his Officers.

A

Letter from Colonel Reed, with the Letter from Lieutenant Davison on board the Schuyler, armed sloop, at FireIsland Inlet, giving information of General Howe's sailing with the fleet from Halifax for New- York, was read.

NEW- YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1437

Ordered, That the said Letters be referred

to

General

Scott.

to

Resolved and Ordered, That Colonel Broome, Colonel

him.

Congress in this Colony, and of the Congress of this Colony, and that they be authorized to employ ])roper persons to fur-

tion of the bearer hereof,

nish the said Prisoners with Rations, agreeable to certain

to pass with his

May

1438

Mr. Franks requested a Certificate for himself and servant go to Philadelphia. Thereupon, the following Certificate and pass was given

Rensselaer, and Colonel Brasher, or any two of them, be a Committee to superintend tiie Prisoners of the Continental

Resolves of the Continental Congress of the 21st of

1776.

" This Congress, having assurance of the friendly disposiMr. David S. Franks, to the cause

and

rights of

America, do recommend that he be permitted

man

servant to the City of Philadelphia."

A

and generally to take care that the said Prisoners be properly secured and disposed of, and treated with justice and humanity.

Letter from the honourable John Hancock, Esq., of the 26th instant, was read and filed, and is in the words following, to wit "Philadelphia, June 26, 1776.

Ordered, That Colonel Allison and Mr. Pye be a Committee to inquire into the conduct of Captain Blauvclt's Company of Militia on the south side of the Mountains in

solves,

last,

Orange County, who have not Continental

to reinforce the

drafted their quota of

Army

at

men

Netv-York.

"Gentlemen: You

terns.

hath or shall purchase on account of the Colony, pursuant to a Resolve of the Congress of this Colony, to be manu-

it is

good Gunpowder, and that he deliver any quantity thereof, not exceeding five hundred weight, to the General Committee of Ulster County, to be disposed of by the said Committee in such manner as they shall think proper, for the defence of the said County.

exchanged

for

A

draft of a Letter to the Committees of Huntington and Southold, relative to desertere from on board the Provincial armed sloop Montgomery, now lying at Fire Inlet, on

the south side of Long-Island,

and

is

in the

words following,

was read and approved

In Provincial Congress,

Gentlemen viz:

:

of,

New- York, June

Guildersleeve,

Ebenezer Conklin, and Solomon Ketcham, Jun., o[ Huntington, and Jonathan Armstrong and Elisha Reeves, of Sout/ikold, belonging to the sloop Montgomery, Captain William Rogers, did, on the night of the 19th instant, desert from Fire Inlet. We think it necessary that every measure should be taken to discourage such desertions, and therefore request you to use your endeavours to secure said deserters, especially such of them as belong to your District, and cause them to be returned to the said Captain Rogers as soon as possible, who has offered a reward of two dollars, besides reasonable charges, for each man thus secured and returned to him.

We To

gentlemen, your very humble servants.

are,

By

from the enclosed

Re-

I

The

reasons that induced Congress to take this step, as a deviation from rule, should be particularly mentioned.

I am therefore directed to inform you that, in consequence of their being furnished with a list of the officers who had served in Canada, they have been enabled to appoint, and

have only appointed, such as were

originally recomthe Provincial Congress of your Colony, and have served faithfully both the last summer campaign and through the winter. It is apprehended, therefore, the Congress have only prevented you in their appointments, and that the same gentlemen would have met with your approbation for their services to their country in fact

mended and appointed by

from Canada, showing be in the, most imminent danger, rendered the utmost despatch necessary, that not a moment of time might be lost. The other officers of the battalion, I am to request our

28, 1776.

We have received information that six men,

Thomas Butler o{ Nciv-York, Richard

"

added

to wit

will perceive

do myself the honour of transmitting, in obedience to the commands of Congress, that they have appointed not only the Field Ofiicers in the Regiment to be raised in your Colony, but likewise a number of subal-

Resolved, That Colonel Allison be, and he is hereby, authorized and requested to cause all the Saltpetre which he

factured into or

which

to this, the last intelligence

affaire to

you

will be pleased to appoint, and exert every nerve to equip the battalion as soon as possible. As an additional encouragement, the Congress have resolved that a bounty of ten dollars be given every soldier who shall inlist for three

years.

"

I

have the Honour

to be,

gentlemen, your most obedient

John Hancock, President. "To the Honourable Convention of New-York, now sitting in New-York." The Resolutions of the Continental Congress of the 26th very humble servant,

above-mentioned from the Honourable John Hancock, commissioning Major Dubois as

instant, referred to in the Letter

Colonel, with instructions forthwith to raise a Regiment to serve for three years, or during the war, and also appoint-

order:

the Committees of

Huntington and Southold.

ing several Officers in said Regiment, were also read and filed.

Ordered, That copies thereof be engrossed, and signed by the President pro tern., and transmitted.

The

Dwight for a Commission as Brigantine Enterprise, burden one

application of Joseph

Letter of

Marque

for the

hundred and sixty tons, accompanied by a report or maniSalurJay morning, June 29, 1776.

The Congress met Present

:

pui-suant to adjournment.

John Harittg, Esq., President pro



te?n.

For New- York. Colonel Broome. For Albany. Mr. Gansevoort, Colonel Rensselaer. For Dutchess. Mr. Schenck, Mr. Dc Lavergne, Colonel M. Graham. For Ulster. Colonel Hasbrouck, Major Parks. For Westchester. Colonel Lewis Graham, Mr. Paul-

— — —



ding.

— — — For Queen's. —Colonel Blackwell. For Charlotte. —Mr. For King's. —Mr. Polhemus. For Tryon. —Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper. For Cumberland. —Colonel Marsh.

For Richmond. Mr. Conner, Mr. Cortelyou. For Suffolk. Mr. Tredwell, Mr. Wickham. For Orange. Mr. Haring, Mr. Pye, Colonel

fest

of her warlike stores, was read.

Ordered, That a Commission issue. Thereupon, the said Joseph Divight, Commander of said Brigantine, and William Bell, of Philadelphia, Merchant, and Archibald fiercer, entered into bonds, conformable to regulations of the Continental Congress.

The

Marque

for the

Allison.

David Salshury Franks, from Canada, produced a Cerdated at Chambly, 3lst May, and signed by Samuel

Brewer, Aid-de-Camp, and another Certificate dated at Albany, on the 20th instant, and signed by Abraham Yates, Jun., Chairman of the Albany Committee, whereby it ap-

Franks to

is

a friend to the American cause, with his man servant

New-York

Commission as

her warlike equipments, was read.

Ordered, That a Commission issue. Thereupon, the said Stewart Deane and James A. SteioMaster and owner of the said Sloop, entered into bonds, conformably to the regulations of the Continental Congress in such cases made and provided.* art.

tificate,

and is permitted to go on private business.

for a

Sloop Beaver, with a manifest of

Webster.

pears that the said

Deane

application of Stewart

Letter of



The Sloop Beaver,

Ste-j!art

Fridau P.

JM.,

June 28, 1776.

Deane Commander, burden about ninety

tons, six carriage guns, twenty-five

men.

(Either Samuel Broome, . .Xixon, or Isaac Sears, or any one of them, to be securities. Samuel Broome supposed out of town; therefore leave a blank for the

James A. Ste-wart and

EUas

name of the other security.) The Brigantine Enterprise, Joseph hundred and sixty

D-cig-ht Commander, burden one men. and jniliam Bell, Philadelphia, merchants, secu-

tons, ten carriage guns, twenty-five

J)rchibalit .Mercer

Joseph D-viffltt. Ordered, That Commissions issue.

rities for

The

warlike stores on board the Sloop Beaver, with the names of the each of four pounds; 12 blunderbusses;

Officers, viz: 6 carriage-guns,

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1439

With respect

Saturday afternoon, June 29, 1776.

The

Congress met pursuant

to

— — — — — — — — — —

1440

to the Cattle, &tc.,

on Long-Island,

it

was

agreed that those in Queen's and A'in^'i Counties should be driven to the Bushy Plains, beyond the Ridge which runs

adjournment.

Present: John Haring, Esq., President y^ro

1776.

tern.

For Albany. Mr. Gansevoort. Colonel Rensselaer. EoR SurroLK. Mr. IVickham, Mr. Tredivell. For Ulster. Colonel Hasbrouck, Major Parks. For Dutchess. Mr. Schenck, Mr. De Lavergne, Colonel M. Graham. For Orange. Mr. Haring, Mr. Pye, Colonel Allison. For Westchester. Colonel L. Graham, Mr. Paulding. For King's. Mr. Polhemus. For Tryon. Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper. For Charlotte. Mr. Webster. For Cumberland. Colonel Marsh. The Committee appointed to confer with General Washington relative to the stock on Long and Staten Islands,

from Hempstead Plains along the north side of Jamaica. and so on towards New- York Ferry, (milch Cows and Horses excepted as above ;) and in all other respects the

same regulations, in case of descent by the enemy, and the same compensation to be made.

The Members of this Congress from Richmond County took extracts of such parts of said Report as related to their County, and obtained leave to go home and attend to the securing of the Stock.

Ordered, That Captain Theophylact Beekman have leave speak to David Matthews, Esq., on private business, in the presence and hearing of William Paulding, Esquire, a member of this House.

to

A

reported in the words following, to wit

At a Conference of the General Officers of the Army, and a Committee from the honourable Provincial Congress of New-York, at Head-Quarters, June 28, 1776: The Committee attending, in consequence of a request from the General to the Congress that the stock of Cattle and Sheep should be removed from Long-Island and StatenIsland, to prevent their falling into the hands of the enemy after much consideration, it was unanimously agreed That all the Cattle, Horses, and Sheep, on Staten-Island (except such as those hereafter mentioned) be removed with all expedition. But as some milch Cows and Horses are indispensably necessary for the subsistence of the inhabitants, it was agreed that two hundred Horses be left for the use of the inhabitants, no one person keeping more than two. That milch Cows be kept in the following proportions, and not to be exceeded, viz three for a large family, two for a middling family, and one for a small family. No person to be permitted now to keep a Cow who has not done so ;

:

Return of the Officers chosen in the Second Company of the Third Battalion of Militia in Suffolk Co\in\y, to wit Edmund Howell First Lieutenant, Selah Reve Second Lieutenant, and James Wells Ensign, was read and

Ordered, That Commissions issue

And

filed.

gentlemen.

to those

they were issued accordingly.

Mr. John Ramsay applied, through a Member, for the opinion and direction of Congress relative to a quantity of Flax which he has purchased for the purpose of employing the poor of this City, pursuant to an order of the Congress of this Colony, and which he has now in store in this City. Thereupon. Resolved, as the opinion of this Congress, That Mr. John Ramsay ouglit, without delay, to remove out of this City, and cause to be conveyed to the store of P. ^ S. Schenck, at Poughkeepsie, all the Flax which he lias purchased on account of, and by order of, the Congress of Colony, except such part thereof as may be required employment of such of the poor inhabitants of this City as are still remaining therein that such of the said Flax as shall be sent to the said store at Poughkeepsie be delivered to the care of Messrs. P. ^ J. Schenck, subject, however, to the direction and order of Mr. Ramsay, who is authorized and empowered to order back to this City, or elsewhere in this Colony, such quantities thereof for the purpose of getting the same manufactured. this

for the inlmediate

;

past. It was enemy should make

two months

for

case the

also further agreed, that in

a descent on Staten-Island,

with an intention to seize the cattle or stock, in that case they be desti'oyed, and the ownei-s to be compensated by the publick. 20

cutlasses;

portion of

20 spears 70 rounds of powder for each gun, wilh a proStnvart Deane, Master; John Haster, first Mate; John ;

ball.

Smedrati, second Mate; 20

men

to be

shipped atJ\i"ew-London.

The

warlike stores of the Brigantine Enterprise, wilh the names o 10 carriage-guns, four pounds; 12 blunderbusses; 20 Uie Officers, viz cutlasses ; 20 spears ; 7 rounds of powder, with ball. Joseph IJ-Mght, :

Commander; Moses Lynn, Mate; Harman Courier, seconi Mate; John J^ern't, Carpenter John Thompson, Gunner Hobert jVlercer, Boat;

swain

;

:

June 29, 1776.

To

the

Honourable Congress of J^Tew-York.

Know all men

by these presents, That we, Steivart Deane, of the City lA JVe-ui-York, Mariner, James .i. Stewart, of the said City, Merchant, and Isaac Sears, of the said City, Merchant, are held and (irmly bound to .lohn Hancock, Esq., President of the Congress of the United Colonics of J\'etti-Hampshire, Massachusetts-Bay, Rhode-Island, Connecticut, J\rew-l'ork, JVe-ui-Jersey, Pennsylvania, the Counties o( J^Te-w-Caslle, Kent, and Sussex, on Dela-iuare, Maryland, Virginia, J\''orlh- Carolina,

South- Carolina, and Georgia, in the sum of five thousand dollars, to be paid to the said John Hancock, or his certain attorney, executors, administrators, or assigns, in trust for the use of the said United Colonies. To which payment well and truly to be done, we do bind ourselves, our

and administrators, jointly ond severally, firmly by these presents. Sealed with our seals. Dated the 29th day of June, in the year of our Lord 1776. The condition of this obligation is such. That if the above bounden Stewart Deane, who is Commander of the Sloop called the Jieaver, Company, of the City oi JVew-York, belonging to .fames A. Stewart in the Colony of JVc-m-York, moaMmg six carriage-guns, and navigated by twenty-five men, and who hath applied for a commission or letters of marque anil reprisal, to arm, equip, and set forth to sea the said sloop as a private ship of war, and to make captures of liritish vessels and cargoes, shall not exceed or transgress the powers and authorities which shall be contained in the said commission, but shall in all things observe and conduct himself, and govern his crew, by and according to the same, and certain instructions therewith to be delivered, and such other instructions as may hereafter be given to him, and shall make reparation for all damages sustained by any misconduct or unwarrantable proceedings of himself, or the officers or crew of the said Sloop Jieaver; then this obligation shall be void, or else remain in force. heirs, executors,

&

Stewart Dean, James A. Stewart,

[Spo/.] [.Sen/.]

Sealed and delivered in the presence of us; the words, "in the thousand dollars," in the obligation, interlined.

sum

Bond given

Commander.)

and obtained leave on

Monday

draft of a Letter to the

was read and approved

of,

to

go

to

Elizabeth

morning.

Committee of Elizabethtown,

and

is

in

the words following,

to wit

for the Brigantine Enterprise,

Joseph

Saturday afternoon.

Gentlemen: At

Dwight

New- York, June

29, 1776.

a conference held yesterday between

General Washington, with the other General Officers, and a Committee for the purpose appointed by this Congress, it was agreed and determined that the slock be immediately removed from Staten-Island to New-Jersey. As the inhabitants of the Island will require aid herein, and our troops will, in all probability, be necessarily engaged in other business, we doubt not the readiness of your Committee (which you have so fully shown on former occasions) in giving them every assistance in your power, as well in removing said stock as in providing proper places lor their reception. are, very respectfully, gentlemen, your most obedient

We

servants.

To

the

Committee of Elizabethtown.

Ordered, That a copy thereof be engrossed, and signed by the President, and transmitted.

Whereas it has been represented to this Congress that Lead will speedily be wanted for the use of the Army in the defence of this City and Colony Tiiereiure, Resolved, That Messvs. Daniel Dunscornb and Samuel Prince be requested and authorized, and they are, and each of them is, respectively, hereby authorized and em:

powered and requested sons as they the

Lead of

may

the

to take to their assistance

such per-

think proper, and forthwith to cause

windows

in this

City, and also

all

all

the leaden

weights, (except such buiall weights us are

in use in the course of trade,) to be collected and delivered to Peter T. Curtenius, Esq., for the use of this Colony, taking his receipt for

of

live

(Similar

A

for,

to return

is

;

20 men. I do hereby request a Commission as a letter of marque above Brigantine. Joseph Dwioht.

GENTtiiJt> N or the

Mr. Jay asked town, and

the

same

;

that a particular account be kept of the

taken out of each house, etors

may

in

Lead

order that the respective propri-

receive compensation for the same.

NEW-YORK PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1441

Sunday morning, June

The

Congress met pursuant :

to

The

adjournment.



Brasher.

For For For For For For

— — — — — — — — —

Albany. Colonel Rensselaer, Mr. Ganscvoort. Dutchess. Mr. De Lavergne, Colonel M. Graham. Orange. Mr. Haring, Mr. Fyc, Colonel Allison. Cumberland. Colonel Marsh. Suffolk. Mr. Tredwell, Mr. Wickham. Westchester. Colonel L. Graham, Mr. Paulding, Mr. Morris. For Ulster. Colonel Hasbrouck, Major Parks. For Tryon. Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper. For Charlotte. Mr. Webster. Colonel Broome,, a Member of the Committee for disposing of the Continental Prisoners, infonned Congress that a Guard of the Militia is provided to go with some Prisoners to the places of their destination, and requested that such

Guard be

furnished with

Arms and Anmiunition

out of the



Guard

returned as soon as the said

returns to

New-York.

Resolved and Ordered, That Colonel Joseph Marsh, a

Member of this Congress, be, and he is hereby, authorized, empowered, and requested, to proceed immediately to Newport, in the Colony of Rhode-Island, and apply to Governour Cooke for the Powder in his care belonging to this Colony and cause the same to be disposed of in manner fol;

lowing, viz

Send Send Send Send Send Send Send Send Send Send

5 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

And

lbs.

each, to Charlotte County.

lbs.

each, to Cumberland

do.

100

lbs.

each, to Gloucester

do.



— — —

For Albany. Colonel Rensselaer, Mr. Ganscvoort. For King's. Mr. Polhemm. For Tryon. Mr. Moore, Mr. Harper. For Dutchess. Mr. De Lavergne, Mr. Paul Schenck, Colonel M. Graham. For Charlotte. Mr. Webster, Mr. Malcom. For Suffolk. Mr. Wickham, Mr. Tredwell.

— — — Foil Orange. —Mr. Haring, Colonel Mr. Pye. For Cumberland. —Colonel Marsh. For Ulster. — Colonel Hasbrouck, Major Parks. For Westchester.—Colonel L. Graham, Mr. Morris, Allison,

Mr. Paulding. Mr. Morris, with leave from the House, delivered to the care of the Secretary the Papere of the Secret Committee, sealed up.

Ordered, That Commissions issue to the Officers of CoMcDougaW s Regiment and that said Commissions be made to bear date corresponding to the respective Warrants lonel

;

granted

to said Officers.

Ordered, That the Commissions, in like manner, issue to the Officers of Colonel Ritzema's Regiment.

An

Officer at the door, requested to

do with the disaffected persons in Hempstead, in Queen's County. Ordered, That they be referred

know what he

his

should

custody, taken at

to the Committee appointed for the disposition of Continental Prisoners, to be secured and treated as they shall think proper.

lbs.

each, to Tryon

do.

lbs.

each, to Ulster

do.

do.

of 100

lbs.

each, to Dutchess

do.

do.

of 100 lbs. each, to

do.

of 100 of 100

lbs.

each, to JVestchester

do.

men who compose the Company of Militia Haverstraw Precinct, in Orange County, now or lately commanded by Captain Avery Blauvelt, are notoriously disaffected, and have refused to suffer drafts to be made from

lbs.

do.

said

of 150 of 100

lbs.

each, to Suffolk each, ) . ail each, { ^" ^^^""J'

do. do.

do.

lbs.

Orange

do.

j ^°-

Esq.,

Go-

vernour of the Colony of Rhode-Island, was read and ap-

and

is

in

the words following, to wit:

Sunday morning, June

Sir: Agreeable to the enclosed order,

we

30, 1776.

entreat of

you

favour of delivering the powder therein mentioned to Colonel Joseph Marsh, the bearer of this letter, and obliging this Congress so much as to furnish him with proper guard

tlie

and other assistance to convey the same to the several This powder is absoplaces mentioned in his instructions. lutely necessary for the immediate defence of this unfortunate Colony, invaded with the unrelenting spirit of British vengeance on every quarter, and singled out as a victim of the present campaign. The importance of the object now in view will apologize to your Honour for the urgency of our requests. are, with the greatest respect, your Honour's most obedient and most humble servants.

We

To

the Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Esq., Governour of the Colony of Rhode-Island.

Ordered, That P. V. B. Livingston, Esq., advance to Colonel Joseph Marsh, a Member of this House, the sum of £200, to be by him disposed of in paying the expenses

which may attend the transporting a quantity of Gunpowder from Newport, in Rhode-Island, to Dutchess and Cumberland Counties, the said Colonel Marsh to account for the expenditure of the said sum to this or a future Congress.

Messenger was sent

King's County to meet

Fourth

Commissions

100

Committee of said County.

A

attending, applied for

of his Regiment.

of 100

for this

of,

McDougall

Colonel

for the Officers

do.

do.

A draft of a Letter to the Hon. Nicholas Cooke, proved

adjounimeht.

do.

do.

purpose send the quantity intended for^Z6any, Ulster, Dutchess, Orange, Tryon, Charlotte, and Westchester, to Colonel Hoofman, at Red-Hook, in Dutchess County, to the care of Egbert Benson, Esq., Chairman of the

to

of of of of

barrels,

4 And 54

100 150

Congress met [)ursuant

30, 1770.

Present: John Haring, Esq., President pro tern. For New- York. Colonel Broome, Colonel Brasher, Mr. Cortlandt, Mr. BaiKker.

publick stores.

Thereupon, Ordered, That Mr. Norwood, the Commissary, deliver to Captain Egbert, the officer commanding the Guard over the Prisoners going to Ulster and Orange Counties, forty Cartridges, filled with powder and ball, and two Muskets or Fire-locks the two Muskets or Fire-locks to be

1442

Sunday afternoon, June

30, 1776.

John Haring, Esq., President pro (em. For New-York. Colonel Broome, Mr. Banclcer, Colonel Present

1776.

Series.

for to request the

this

—Vol.

Congress vi.

Members from

this afternoon.

In Provincial Congress, New-York, June 30, 1776.7 Sunday afternoon. 3

Whereas

this

Congress has been credibly informed that a

majority of the in

Company for

reinforcing the

Army

at

New-York

A. H. Hay be, and he hereby is, empowered, authorized, and directed, immediately to apprehend seven of the most refractory men of the said Company, and also to seize and take all the arms belonging to the disaffected persons in said Company, and that he, without loss of time, send the said seven men and arms, to be taken as aforesaid, under a proper guard, to this City, and cause them to be delivered to Brigadier-General Scott. Resolved, That Colonel

And

in

order that the said Colonel

may

be enabled with

ease to execute the business aforesaid.

Resolved, That he be at liberty to apply to Captain Johnson and Lieutenant Martin, or either of them, with their recruits, to aid

mand

in the

and assist him and the Militia under his comexecution of this order.

Resolved, That the Commander-in-Chief of the Contiis hereby, authorized and empowered,

nental forces be, and

whenever he Colony,

to

shall

apply

judge

it

to the

Brigadier-Generals thereof for any

necessary for the defence of this

proportion of the Militia under their respective commands and that on receipt of such application they be, and they are hereby, directed to call out such part of the Militia and march to any place or places within this Colony as the said Commander-in-Chief shall order for its defence, and that this order shall continue until revoked by this or some future Congress or Legislature of this Colony; and that the said Commander-in-Chief be, and he is hereby, authorized to take such measiu-es for apprehending and securing dangerous and disaffected pereons as he shall think necessary for the security of tliis Colony and the liberties of America. Ordered, That the General have a copy of this Resolution. ;

Whereas

Congress has received intimations that diand dangerous persons in this Colony have lately left their usual places of residence, and secreted themselves in woods and swamps and other places, in all probability with a design to join the enemy when an opportunity shall offer, which, if not prevented, will greatly endanger the peace, quiet, and safety of the inhabitants this

vers disaffected

91

NORTH-CAROLINA COUNCIL OF SAFETY, JUNE,

1443

Resolved, therefore, That it be, and it is hereby, recomto th^ Committees of the several Towns, Cities, Manoi-s, Precincts, and Districts, in this Colony, to cause to be apprehended and brought before them all such persons

mended

as are

above described, and that they cause them

be sent,

to

Congress of

by

this

For

;

sary publick Papers and Records of this Colony ought to be removed from this City; and whereas the present or future Congress of this Colony, as well by reason of the removal

of the Papers aforesaid, as for other causes and considerations, will be unable to deliberate and determine in this City on the several important matters submitted to their consideration

Resolved, therefore. That the Treasurer and Secretaries of this Congress be, and they hereby are, directed forthwith to repair, with all and singular the publick Pa|)ers and Money now in their custody or possession, unto the White-Plains, in

County of Westchester; and that this Congress be, and hereby is, adjourned unto the Court-House in the WhitePlains aforesaid, there to meet on Tuesday, the 2d day of July next, and proceed upon business and that the next the it

;

20

Willie Jones, Esq.

Cornelius Harnett,

Samuel Ashe, Esqs.,

for the District

of

Wilmington. Jones, Whitmill Hill,

Esqs., for the

District

of

Edenton.

James Coor, John Simpson, Esqs.,

for the District

of

New-

hern.

Thomas Eaton, Joseph John Williams, of Halifax. Thomas Person, John

Rand,

Esqs., for the District

Esqs., for the District of Hills-

the District

Pursuant to which, Cornelius Harnett, Samuel Ashe, Whitmill Hill, James Coor, John Simpson, Joseph John Williams, Hezekiah Alexander, and William Sharp, Esqs., met at the Town of Wilmington, on the 5th day of Jime, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six, subscribed the Test, and took their seats in proceeded to the choice of a President,

Cornelius Harnett, Esq., was unanimously chosen; and James Glasgow and James Green, Jun., were appointed

when

Secretaries. till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Thursday, June

Met

6,

1776.



Try on,

5

Brigadier-General Ashe informed the Council that there are a number of outlying malcontents in the County of Bladen, who were desirous of returning home, and submitting

themselves to the determination of the said Council. Resolved, That all such outlying malcontents in the said County as have been concerned in the late insurrection, and will take an oath before the Chairman of the Committee to submit themselves to such Regulations as are or may be esfor

votes.

Charlotte,

Cumberlanil. votes.

direct

;

and the Committee of the County of Westchester

are requested to afford

him

all

necessary aid

in

executing

he should think it expedient) detachments from Captain Townshend^s Company

and

(if

to order to

guard

the said stores.

Ordered, That Mr. Mills be, and he hereby is, empowered to impress Teams, Carriages, and Boats, for the purpose aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Treasurer pay Mr. Mills fifty dollars, expenses which may attend executing the order aforesaid, he accounting therefor to this Convention. to defray the

be appointed Surgeon two Battalions of the Militia Brigade now at Wilmington under the command of Brigadier-General Ashe. Resolved, That Alexander Martin, Esq., Colonel of the Second Regiment of North- Carolina Continental Troops,

be directed to borrow the sum of £2,000 for the use of his Regiment, and that he supply the Captains of each Company with their proportion of the said sum, in part pay of the Soldiers under their command, and that this Council will give a draft on the Paymaster to replace the said money to the person or persons from whom the same may be borrowed. Resolved, That James Grant be appointed Messenger to the Council of Safety.

and Doorkeeper

the government of this Colony, and

That Mr. Joseph Palmar be appointed Ensign

Captain William Caswell's Company, in the Fifth Regiment of Foot of the American Army of this Province, in the room of John Bush, resigned. Resolved, That Mr. Benjamin Pike be appointed First Lieutenant in Captain George MitchelVs Company, in the Sixth Regiment of Foot in the American Army of this Province, in the room oi Amos Love, resigned. Resolved, That Mr. Samtiel Martin be appointed Second Lieutenant, and Mr. Samuel Jones Ensign, in said Captain George Mitchell's Company, in the room of Benjamin Pike, in

advanced, and Reuben Grant, resigned. Resolved, That Mr. William Lyttle be appointed Second Lieutenant, in the room of Samuel Thompson, resigned, and Mr. Jfilliam Green Ensign, in the room of Mr. Williain Lyttle, advanced, in Captain Archibald Lyttle's Company, in the Sixth Regiment of Foot of the American Army of Province. Resolved, That Aaron Haskins be appointed Captain,. Mr. Exper Kilbcy Lieutenant, and Mr. Robert Nixon Ensiifn, of the New Topsail Company of Militia in New-Hanthis

according to adjournment.

tablished

carried

3 Orange, 2 King's.

Ulster,

Resolved, for

of Salisbury.

Adjourned

was

to say:

Ordered, That all the Lead, Powder, and other Military Stores belonging to this State, and now in the custody of Richard Norwood and Colonel Peter T. Curtcnius, at the C\ly o( New-York, be forthwith removed from hence, to the White-Plains, and placed there in such safe place and secured in such manner as Mr. Zebcdiah Mills shall order and

borough.

Hezekiah Alexander, WiUiam Sharp, Esqs.,

Council. The Council

it

Against the Question.

5 Dutchess,

4 3 2 2

is

to the

:

The Provincial Congress having by Resolve nominated the following persons to be a Council of Safety, to wit

Thomas

following, that

Resolved, That

NORTH-CAROLINA COUNCIL OF SAFETY. North-Cabolina

manner

the Question.

this business, :

in

4 Westchester,

great reason to apprehend that an at-

tack will soon be made upon this City; and whereas, during the tumult and confusion incident upon such attack, it may be difficult to assemble a sufficient number of Members to form a Congress and whereas the Minutes and other neces-

same place on Mon-

Congress.

the affirmative,

Districts, to carry this Resolution into effectual execution. is

at the

Debates arose, and the question being put, in

under safe guard, to some Jail or other place of security in Colony; and the said Committees are hereby empowered to order the Officers of the Militia, in their respective

there

Colony do meet

1444

day, the 8th day of July aforesaid, unless otherwise ordered

this

Whereas

this

1776.

over County.

Resolved, That Thomas Evans, M^lliam Tyler Kilbey, and John Jacobs, be appointed Ensigns in the Second Regiment of Foot of the American Army of this Province.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.

when

required will take up arms in defence thereof, shall be permitted to return to their respective habitations unmolested.

Resolved, That Robert Rayford and Abraham Daivs be appointed Adjutants to the two Battalions of the Militia Brigade now at Wilmington, under the command of Brig. General Ashe, and that they be allowed Is. 6d. per day each.

Friday, June

Met

7,

1776.

according to adjournment.

Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, place hands of Mr. John Eason, of Carteret County, for the

in the

immediate use of carrying on a Salt-Work in the said County, the sum of £500, to be paid to Mr. Robert Williams

NORTH-CAROLINA COUNCIL OF SAFETY, JUNE,

1445

occasionally, for the purpose aforesaid, and

allowed the same

in their

tliat

they be

accounts with the puhlick.

in their

accounts with the publick.

Resolved, That five hundred weight of the Gunpowder ordered by General Lee to be sent into this Province from Virginia be, on its arrival at Ilulifax. sent to Salisbury, to the care of the Brigadier-General of that District, under a

Guard of six men, and Resolve put

in

that Brigadier-General Jones see this

execution.

Mr. Arthur Mahison appeared them,

sell

for the

in

Council, and agreed to

Land

use of the publick, a certain tract of

County, near Beaufort, containing acres, commonly called Gallant's Point, which place is judged convenient for making Salt the value to be ascertained by two pei-sons, one to be chosen by Mr. Mahison, the other by the Council which being agreed to, Mv. Richard Cogdell, of Newbern, and Mr. Solomon Sheppard, of Carteret County, were appointed to value the said Land. Resolved, That the aforesaid Richard Cogdell a.nd Solomon Sheppard value the said tract of Land, and in case they do not agree therein, that they call in a third person to value the same, and return a certificate of such valuation, with their proceedings thereon, to tliis Council, that the said Mr. Mabison, on making a proper title, may receive such valuation from the publick. in Carteret

;

;

Resolved, That the Paymaster of the Continental Troops Province pay unto Richard Quince, Esq., the sum of one thousand Pounds, being for so much advanced by him to the Colonel of the Second Regiment of said Troops in this

in part of their

ed the same

pay

in his

;

and

that the said

Paymaster be allow-

accounts with the publick.

Resolved, That James Williams be appointed First Lieuroom of Charles Hollingsworth, resigned and

tenant, in the

;

William Williams Second Lieutenant in Captain John Ashe's Company in the Fourth Regiment of Foot of the American Army of this Province. Doctor William McCluere, Surgeon to the Sixth Regiment of Continental Troops in this Province, resigned. Resolved, That Doctor William McCluere be appointed Surgeon to the Second Regiment of Continental Troops in this Province, in the room of William Pasteur, resigned.

Adjourned

till

That Parker Quince be appointed Colonel, Lieutenant-Colonel, John Rogers First ]MaLewis Dupree Second Major, Robert Daniel First Cap-

Resolved, jor,

(Brunswick,) Francis Alls I one Second Captain, (ShalEdward Wingate Third Captain, (Waccamaw,) and Jacob Leonard, Fourth Captain, (Lockwood's Folly,) of the tain, lot,)

Militia in

Resolved, That the Surgeons appointed to the six Regiments of Continental Troops in this Province, be directed to employ a Surgeon's Mate to each Regiment, and that such Mates be allowed the same pay as directed by the Continental Congress.

Colonel Alexander Martin certified that Mr. Charles AlEnsign in Captain Armstrong's Company from the 1st day of October last until the 1st day of February last, and from that time as Second Lieutenant in the said len has acted as

Company

Met

said offices

Resolved, That the Colonels of the respective Regiments of Continental Troops in this Province be empowered to appoint a Drum-Major to each of the said Regiments.

Resolved, That the Council of Safety do business at until Saturday evening next, at which time

Wilmington

they adjourn from thence to meet on the Tuesday following house of Mr. William Whitfield, on Neuse River, in

at the

Dobbs County, of

this

in

order to proceed on the publick business is to give publick

Province, of which the Secretary

notice.

Resolved, That Mr. Alexander Douglass, as

1776.

Drum-Major

to the

who

has acted

Second Regiment of Continental

as Ensign in

accounts with the publick.

Adjourned

till

Monday

morning, eight o'clock.

Cap-

Noxe's Company from the 1st day of February to the 5th day of March last, and from that time until the 8th day of June instant as Second Lieutenant to said Company; Mr. David Vance as Ensign from the 5th day of March last

Monday, June

tain

Mr. Richard Graham as Second Lieutenant from the 1st day of February to the 5th day of March last; and Mr. Isaac Rolestone as Ensign from the 1st day of February last, by the nomination o( Alexander Martin, Esq., Colonel of the Second Regiment of Continental Troops in this Province: Resolved, That the Paymaster pay them the Wages payable to such Officers from the time of their nomination. until this date

by Colonel Martin.

General Moore laid before the Council a Letter from Francis Parry, Captain of the Cruiser ship of war, and another from Mr. Francis Clayton, proposing an exchange of a prisoner. The Council are of opinion that General Moore may send down Mr. Stephen in exchange for Mr. Clayton, agreeable to the proposal made by Mr. Clayton through Mr. Parry.

according to adjournment.

Whereas Mr. John Bickerstaff acted

until this date.

Resolved, That the Paymaster pay the wages due to the said Charles Allen, from the time of his appointment to the

his 8,

Brunswick County

Doctor Robert Wilson, who was appointed Surgeon to the Second Regiment of Continental Troops, resigned. Resolved, That Doctor Robert Wilson be apjjointed Surgeon to the Sixth Regiment of Continental Troops in this Province, in the room of Doctor McCluere, who was appointed to the Second Regiment.

Troops in this Province, be allowed the sum of £43 4s., and that the Paymaster pay the same, and be allowed in

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

Saturday, June

Lord

William

Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay to John Davics, Quartermaster to the Second Regiment of Continental Troops in this Province, the sum of £150, to enable him to purchase Forage for the use of the said Regiment, now under marching orders, and be allowed the same

1446

1776.

Met

10, 1776.

according to adjournment.

Whereas the proportion of Militia ordered by Congress be drafted out of the County of Brunsivick appeal's to be a greater number than can with conveniency be spared

to

;

Resolved, That Richard Graham be appointed Second Lieutenant in Captain Murphy's Company, John Bickerstaff Ensign in Captain Noxe's Company, Isaac Rolestone Ensign in Captain Armstrong's Company, and David Vance Ensign in Captain Fenner's Company, in the Second Regiment of Foot in the American Army of this Province. Resolved, That Mr. Manlove Tarrant be appointed Second Lieutenant in Captain Herritage's Company, Mr. Samuel Martin Second Lieutenant in Captain Gee's Company, and Mr. Charles Allen Second Lieutenant in Captain Keais's Company, in the Second Regiment of Foot in the American Army of this Province. Resolved, That it be recommended to the Provincial Conmake allowance to Colonel John Patten for his ex-

gi-ess to

traordinary expenses during the canipaign iu Virginia.

out of the said County:

Resolved, That thirty Privates of said Militia, ordered to be drafted as aforesaid, he dismissed from such draft.

Colonel Martin

certified that

Mr. David Crawford has

acted as Ensign in Captain Davidson's Company, in the First Regiment of Continental Troops in this Province,

from the 1st .day of February last until this date. Resolved, That the Paymaster pay the wages due to the said David Crawford, from the time of his acting as Ensign to the said

Company.

Resolved, That Mr.

David Crawford be appointed En-

sign in Captain Davidson's

of Continental Troops

Company

in this

in

the First

Regiment

Province.

Resolved, That the Paymaster pay to Mr. Ransome Southerland £1,250, for so much money advanced by him in part pay of the First Regiment, and be allowed in his accounts with the publick.

That Spencer Watts be appointed Lieutenant Captain Henry Dawson's Company of Militia, from the Halifax detachment, in the room of John Sumner, who reResolved,

in

signed.

Whereas

it

appears to

this

Council that John King,

who

NORTH-CAROLINA COUNCIL OF SAFETY, JUNE,

1447

was appointed Captain of an Independent Company stationed between New-River and Deep-Inlet, hath been guilty of a gross deception in inlisting his men, and a flagrant neglect of duty

in

not occupying the posts on the sea-coast, and in

men

sufiering two-thirds of his

to absent themselves

from

their duty.

Resolved, That the said John King be suspended from his said command until the sense of the Congress be had thereon. Resolved, That Mr. Blackmore be requested to furnish Colonel Long, for the use of the Continental Troops in this Province, with all the Blankets he hath in his store, for which this Council will give an order on the publick Treasury.

John Rand, Esq., borough, appeared

in

a Member for the District of HillsCouncil, subscribed the test, and took

his seat accordingly.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

Met

according to adjournment.

the Petition o( Angus Campbell, of Cumberland

ty, setting forth his indisposition

moving, agreeable

Coun-

Guilford County, prayCounty on givintr

to his parole, to

ing permission to remain in Cumberland

Resolved, That Colonel Ebenezer Folesome do grant such Angus Campbell, on his giving

further indulgence to the said

he

may judge

consistent with the safety of this

Colony. Resolved, That Robert Nixon, of Onslow County, be allowed the sum of £10 for his vigilant service as Chaplain

Onslow detachment of Militia; and that the Treathem, pay the same, and be allowed in accounts with the publick.

to the

surers, or either of their

Resolved, That the following persons be appointed Captains, Lieutenants, and Ensigns, to the Edenton, Neivbern, Halifax:, and Wilmington Brigades of Militia,

under the Cape-Fear:

service,



command

now

in actual

of Brigadier-General Ashe, at

FOR THE EDENTON BUIGADE.

Fsr Pasquotank County, No.

Captain, Lieutenant, Ensign.

1.

For Bertie County. No.

Captain, Lieutenant,

2.

Captain, Lieutenant, Ensign.

6.

Ensign.

Captain, Lieutenant, Ensign.

3.

No.

Ensign.

No.

1.

No.

2,

Joseph Green Captain, Matcliei Herring, Lieut Wm. JMcDaniel,.. Ensign.

. .

No.

3.

Henry Cannon,

4.

No.

Captain ' Lieut

5.

Thomas Tyre

Ensign



^'"~

No.

G.

John

„.,

^'"

i.

.Salter

,

,

^'"' •''''""""'

No.

Captain, Lieut.,

Ensigi.

„ County. Captain,

7.

Captain,

Lieut.,

Aaron Earneli,.. Lieut., William Hancock, Ensign. .

^

,,

toan«^.

Josiah Little, ^uke Bates

...Captain,

Gideon Carraway, Lieut., Samuel Smith Ensign. No.

For Hyde and Beaufort County.

William Fellows, Captain, Joel Herring ..Lieut.,

Solomon Conper, Ensign. For Craven County. Covntu tor

Ensign.

.

FOR THE Halifax brigade.

For Halifax County. No.

1.

James N. Parsons, Captain, Presily

Cox

.

No.

5.

No.

6.

Lieut.,

Caleb Montcrief... Ensign. No.2. Henry Dawson, ...Captain,

William Noblin,... Lieut., John Champion, .Ensign. .

.

For Edgecombe County. No.

3.

James Gray, Captain, Benjamin Bunn,.. Lieut,, Joseph Curl,

No.

4.

Gershom

Ensign. Cofield.. Captain,

Spencer Watts, Lieut., Francis Parker,.. .Ensign.

Captain,

No.

Captain,

G.

..Lieut.,

Lieut.,

And

that

Commissions

Ensign.

issue accordingly.

Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay to Samuel Ashe, Esq., or order, the sum of £350, to replace that sum borrowed from William Campbell for the use of the publick, and be allowed in their accounts with the pubResolved, That Thomas Callender, James Craven, and John Cheese, be appointed Ensigns in the First Regiment of Continental Troops in this Province.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Wednesday, June

Met

For Bute County. James Denton, ....Captain, John IVlacon, Lieut., William Harrison, Ensign. Benjamin Seawell, Captain, William Hill Lieut., J ohn Jones Ensign.

For JVorthatnpton County. No.

7.

Robert Peoples

Captain,

Benjamin Jordan,

Lieut.,

Cha rles Jordan,

Ensign.

.

..

12, 1776.

according to adjournment.

Resolved, That his Honour the President write to the Delegates at Philadelphia, requesting them to purchase, at the expense of this Province, three tons of Gunpowder for the use of the Army, and a number of iron Plates sufficient to make Pans for erecting a Salt-Work, and Wagons and Horses for conveying the same to this Province and that they apply to the Continental Treasury for money to defray the expenses of the same. ;

Resolved, That fifteen hundred weight of the Gunpowder at Edenton, and a proportioned quantity of Lead, be immediately removed from Edenton to this place ; and that Samuel Johnston, Esq., be requested to direct the same. Resolved, That the Paymaster pay to Mv. William Camp£420, for so much money advanced by him for the First Regiment of Continental Troops in this Province, in part of their pay, and be allowed in his accounts with the bell

Resolved, That the Paymaster pay to Mr. JVilliam bell

£40,

for so

in part

much money advanced by him

pay of

his

to

wages, and be allowed

Camp-

General

in his ac-

counts with the publick. Resolved, That the Paymaster pay to Mr. JVilliam

£60, in

for so

part

much money advanced by him

pay of

his

wages, and be allowed

to

Camp-

General

in his

ac-

counts with the publick.

Resolved, That Colonel Ebenezer Folesome, one of the Commissioners for purchasing Guns in Cumberland County, deliver to Captain Arthur Council as many of the said Arms as shall be sufficient to arm his said Company.

FOR THE NEWEERN BRIGADE.

For Dobbs County.

Hardy Homes,..

Lee,

Captain, Lieutenant,

7.

Captain, Lieutenant, Ensign.

4.

Abraham Morton,

William Rutledge, Ensign.

bell

pgr Martin County.

For Cho-wan County. No.

3.

Moore,

For Hertford County. No.

For Tyrrdl County. No.

No.

publick.

Captain, Lieutenant, Ensign.

5.

For Perquimans County.

No

FOR THE WILMINGTON BRIGADE. For .'Yew-Hanover County. For Bladen County. Thomas No. 1. Devans,...Capiain, No. 4. James Shipman... Captain, Willi.im Neal, James Morehead, Lieut, Lieut., John Smith Thomas Mulford,.. Ensign. Ensign. For OnstoTv County. For Cumberland County. No.2. Ephraim Battle,.... Captain, No. 5. Captain, James Foy, Lieut., Lieut., William Siiaw Ensign. Ensign. For Duplin County. For Br nswich County.

hath prevented him from re-

security for his future good behaviour,

security, as

1448

lick.

Tuesday, June 11, 1776.

On

1776.

Samuel Willets being brought before the Council and charged with corresponding with the enemy, which appearing from the testimony produced against said Willets : Resolved, That the said Samuel Willets enter into bond, with security, in £500, for his good behaviour and conformity to the Resolves of Congress, or any authority under them, and for his immediate removal from the County of Brunswick, and constant residence in the County of NewHanover,

until

discharged therefrom.

Resolved, That William Cooper be appointed Second Lieutenant in Captain John Enloe's Company, in the Fifth Regiment, in the American Army of this Province. Resolved, That Mr. William Purviance be appointed Captain of the Independent Company stationed on the seacoast between New-River and Deep-Inlet, in the room of Captain John King, suspended by tliis Board until the sense of the Congress be had thereon.

This Council having received information that the Records and Papers of the Inferior Court of Cumberland County are concealed by disaffected persons Resolved, That Colonel Ebenezer Folesome make diligent search after the said Records and Papei-s, and receive the same if possible, and deliver them into the custody of Wil-

liam Rand, appointed by Congress to receive them

;

and

it

NORTH-CAROLINA COUNCIL OF SAFETY, JUNE,

1449 is

recommended

strict

of the said County to make the same, and all persons are

to the Justices

inquiry and search after

required to aid and assist therein.

Resolved, That the Treasurers, or eitlier of them, pay to Mr. Hugh Montgomery the sum of £300, to enahle him to pay the persons Tiom wliom he liath purchased Provisions for the publick, and be allowed the same in their accounts with the pubhck.

appear before this Board that the four hogsheads of Mohisses which were stopped at Elizabethtoivn, and are in care of William McRee, Esq., are liis it

property.

Resolved, That

tiie

William McRee deHver to the hogsheads of Molasses.

said

said Mallet, or order, the said four

Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay to Nicholas Long, Esq., £13.5, for a Wagon, four Horses, and of Corn, purchased for the use of the Continental Troops in this Province, and be allowed in their accounts with the publick. six barrels

till

a return of said valuation to

may be made

to the

this

1450

Council, that satisfaction

owner.

Resolved, That Mr. Ilmry Toomer be appointed Commissary to the detachment of Militia from the Halifax Bri-

now

gade, in the

actual service under Brigadier-General Aihe,

in

room of Chappell Gee, resigned.

Resolved, That Timothy Bloodivorth be £5 for each Musket and makes (agreeable to the Resolutions of Congress) and delivers within four months

by the publick

Mr. Peter Mallet made

Adjourned

1776.

the Continental

from

this date to Council, or to such pei-son or persons as they shall appoint to receive them ; and that the said Bloodworth, and

this

workmen employed by him

the

in

making of Muskets

the

and Bayonets, shall be exempt from bearing arms during the time they shall be at work thereon also, that the sum of £100 be immediately advanced to the said Bloodworth ;

enable him to carry on the said work, he fii-st giving security faithfully to account for the same and that the Treasurers, or either of them, pay the same, and be allowto

;

ed

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

and paid Bayonet that he

allow^ed

in their

accounts with the publick.

Resolved, That the Commissioners of the armed Brig Thursday, June 13, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment.

Resolved, That the Paymaster pay to Mr. William Wilkinson the sum of £40, (or so much advanced by him for the use of the First Regiment of Continental Troops in this Province, and be allowed in his accounts with the publick. Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay to for going express to General Lee,

Kdward Dickson £8, in

South- Carolina, and be allowed

in their

accounts with

the publick.

Resolved,

Pennsylvania Farmer,

by Captain Elmes,

Newbem,

rity, to deliver into their

Dutch Osnabergs,

his obligation,

hands, at a reasonable price, good pay the value of the said

sufficient to

Resolved, That Colonel Ebenezer Folesome immediately on the several Merchants and Factors in Cumberland

whom

he suspects have Salt in their hands, and make strict inquiry for any that may be concealed, and take an inventory, and stop the sale of the same, and return an account thereof to this Board Provided, That this Resolve shall not extend to such Salt as has been purchased for the use of private families and that he call on the Commissioners to render an account of all the Salt delivered out, and to whom, and make return thereof to the Council. :

;

Resolved, That Michael Quinn be appointed Lieutenant Company of Artillery in this Province commanded by Captain John Vance. Fire- Worker, in a

Resolved, That James Middleton be appointed First Lieutenant, Charles Hollingsivorth Second Lieutenant, and James Spicer Ensign, to the Independent Company station-

ed between New-River and Deep-Inlet. till

same

shall

Cannon imported have been appraised

he first giving bond, with security ,°in £2,000, account for the same, and be allowed in their accounts with the publick. for said Militia,

faithfully to

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Saturday, June 15, 1776.

Met

with secu-

call

Adjourned

after the

deliver out of the

Canvass.

County,

take, for the use of

Resolved, That tlie Treasurers, or either of them, pay to Mr. Henry Toomer, Commissary to the Halifax detachment of Militia, the sum of £1,000, for the purchasing Provisions

publick stores in their possession, to John PVright Stanley,

twenty pieces of Canvass, taking

Newbem, do

agreeable to a Resolution of this Board.

That the Commissioners of the armed Brig

the Pennsylvania Farmer, at

at

the said Brig, eight of the most suitable

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

according to adjournment.

Resolved, That Mrs. Jean Dubois and Mrs. 31eNiell and remove from the Town of Wilmington, the place of their residence, within eight days from this time, so as to be at least twenty miles distant from the said Town, their families

up the River this

and that General Moore be requested Resolve carried into execution. ;

to see

The Council having received information that David Jackson, James Mewes, William Garner, John Piles, and John Piles, Jun., Prisoners, who were destined for Philadelphia and Virginia, had made their escape from the guard, and returned to their respective habitations, and are using their utmost influence with the disaffected in that part of the Province to prevent their associating in the common

cause Resolved, That Colonel Eberiezer Folesome forthwith march a party of Horse, with the utmost secrecy, and secure the persons of die said James Mewes, William Garner, John Piles, John Piles, Jun., David Jackson, and a certain William Catlett, and convey them, under a sufficient guard, to Halifax Jm\. Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay to £14 16s., for sundry services by him rendered the publick, and be allowed the same in their accounts with the publick.

James Grant

Friday, June 14, 1770.

Met

according to adjournment.

Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay to Dr. James Geekie, Surgeon to the First Regiment of Continental Troops in this Province, £80, for sundry Medicines furnished for the First and Second Regiment of said Troops, and be allowed in their accounts with the publick. Resolved, That Mr. Walter Gibson be appointed Commissary to the detachments of Militia from the Neivbern and Wilmington Brigades of Militia, now in actual service under

Brigadier-General Ashe.

Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay to £81 13s. 6d., for thiny-eight barrels of Flour delivered William Cannon, Esq., Commissary to the of Continental Troops in this Province, for First Regiment

Mr. Peter Mallet

the use of the said Regiment counts with the publick.

;

and be allowed

in their

ac-

Resolved, That Colonel Joseph Leech, James Davis, Esq., and Mr. David Baron, be appointed to value the Cannon, on oath, imported into Newbem by Captain Elms; and send

Resolved, That JVilliam Maxwell, Colin Campbell, and Donald Campbell, who have been carrying on a coiresjion-

dence with the enemy, be sent, under a proper guard, of Neivbern, and delivered to the Jailer there,

Town kept

in

the publick Jail until further orders

;

to the

to

be

and that

Smith, John Campbell, William Miller, and Malcom McNeill, be sent under guard to the Town of Halifax, and delivered to the Jailer

be kept in the publick prison until and that Andrew Wikon and Thomas Erskine be sent with the guard to the Town oi Halifax, there to remain within the limits of the said town on their parole: and that General Ashe see this Resolve carried into execivfurther orders

there, to ;

tion.

Resolved, That the Treasurci-s, or either of them, pay to James Dupree the sum of £150, to enable him to purchase

Tools

an Armory to the Continental Troops Province, he giving bond with security to account for the same in the sum of £200, and be allowed the same in their accounts with the publick.

in

for establishing

this

NORTH-CAROLINA COUNCIL OF SAFETY, JUNE,

1451

Resolved, That Mr. Abraham Dawes be appointed Brigade-Major to tlie detachment of Mihtia in actual service under Brigadier-General Ashe. Resolved, That Maurice Jones be a))pointed Second Lieutenant in Captain George Mitchell's Company in the Fifth

Regiment of the American Army of

this

1776.

1452

of the Provincial Congress, to serve in their respective Committees, in the room of those neglecting and refusing to act and so removed out of the Province.

The Honourable

the President appeared in Council and

took his seat.

Province.

Adjourned

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

till

Council adjourned to Mr. William Whitfield's, on JVeiwe River, in Dobbs County.

Agreeably

to Resolve, the

Saturday, June 22, 1776.

Met Wednesday, June

19, 1776.

according to adjournment.

Drew do attend this Counday of July next, with the necessary papers explanatory of tlie Bottomry on the Brig William, and all other Accounts respecting said Brig. Resolved, That Captain Eleazer

Met according to adjournment. Thomas Eaton, Esquire, one of the Membei-s trict

of Halifax, appeared, subscribed the

cil

for the

Dis-

and took

test,

his

seat accordingly.

The

President being absent, chosen President jjro tempore.

Thomas Eaton,

Esq., was

Thomas James Emery

being charged on oath with undue minds of the people, and prevent the Militia of Craven County from turning out in defence and protection of this Province agreeable to Resolve of Congress: Resolved, That the said Thomas James Emery do remove within ten days from the Town of Newbern, the place of his present residence, to the County of Dobbs, there to remain practices, tending to inflame the

on his parole, within the limits of the said County, for the space of two months from the date hereof, and at the expiration thereof he be permitted to return to the Town of JSIewbern, on giving bond to the Chairman of the Committee of the said town in sufficient security for his future good behaviour, and that Brigadier-General Bryan see this Resolve carried into execution.

Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay to Gifford, Commissary to the detachment of Militia stationed at Cross-Creek, under the command of Colonel Folesome, £400, and be allowed the same in their accounts

Henry

on Monday, the

1st

Resolved, That Courts of Justice for hearing and determining maritime matters, be, and hereby are, established at the Ports of Edenton, Bath, Newbern, and Wilmington, and that the following persons be appointed Judges of the said Courts, to wit Jasper Charlton, Esq., for the Port of Ederiton, Christopher Neale, Esq., for the Port of iSewbern, and Thomas Rcspcss, Jun., Esq., for the Port of Bath, and that :

Commissions

issue accordingly.

Resolved, That the Judges of the said Courts of Admiralty be directed to appoint one Register and Marshal of

each of the said Ports, and all other officers necessary for the purpose of carrying into execution the determination and decrees of said Courts.

Resolved, That Didderick Gibble be appointed Ensign

Captain Enoch Ward's Independent Company, in the room of Charles Dennis, who resigned. Resolved, That Bcnajah Doty be appointed Second Major in the Onslow Regiment of Militia, in the room of James in

Hotvard, resigned.

Doty be appointed Commissary to stationed on the same coast, commanded by Captain Selbey Harney Resolved, That Hull

Company

the Independent

with the publick.

Resolved, That the

Resolved, That Mr.

Henry Gifford be appointed

to pur-

chase Provender for the Light-Horse under the command of Colonel Folesome, at Cross-Creek, and furnish them at the rate of six quarts of Corn per day, or four quarts of Corn and four quarts of Oats per day, for each horse, and that he be allowed the sum of four Shillings per day for his

and Minute-men in

Commanding Officers of the Province, who have been on

in this

Militia

service

the late insurrection, do collect, from the different

panies under their

command,

the publick

Com-

Powder which

re-

mains in their hands, and return an account of the same to this Board.

Adjourned

till

Monday

morning, eight o'clock.

trouble.

On

Board for a to supply the Troops under Colonel Cross-Creek, the same appearing absolutely Folesome, at application of Captain Atkinson to this

quantity of

Powder

necessary.

ed

Resolved, That Colonel Ebenezer Folesome be empowerto send, as soon as may be, to Brigadier-General Jones

for five

hundred weight of the Powder, now

Henry Montfort, belonging

in the care

of

to the publick.

The

Council, taking into consideration the necessity of supplying the frontier inhabitants of this Province with a sufficient quantity of

Powder

for their protectioM,

Resolved, That Brigadier-General Rutherford be supplied with five hundred weight of Powder, now in the carB of Henry Montfort, for the purpose aforesaid, and that Brigadier-General Jones send the same.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Thursday, June 20, 1776.

Met according to adjournment. morning, eight o'clock.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow

Friday, June 21, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment.

Resolved, That Colonel Ebenezer Folesome be directed to appoint two Sergeants and two Corporals to each Company of Light-Horse, and that the Paymaster pay them the wages due such Officers from the time of tlieir appoint-

ment.

Whereas it appears to the Council that many of the Members of the Committee, both of the County of Cumberland and

Town of

Campbellton, are removed out of the Prothat remain decline to act Resolved, therefore. That the inhabitants of the said County and Town elect Menibei-s, pursuant to the Resolve vince,

and some of those

Monday, June

24, 1776.

Met according to adjournment. The Council, upon reconsidering the case of Joseph Smith, John Cainpbell, William Miller, and Malcom McNeill, Prisoners, ordered to

Halifax JaW,

Resolved, That the said Prisoners be admitted their parole within the limits of the Town of Halifax, they appearing between the hours of nine and twelve every day before

Mr. Christopher Dudley.

On

application of

Mr. Nathaniel Rochester, Commissary

of Stores, setting forth that for want of Wagons, and by reason of the Ferries between Edenton and Newbern, he could not, without great delay and expense, remove the publick Stores from that town, as the Congress had directed

The

Council, taking the same into consideration, are of may with safety be removed by

opinion that the said Stores

water from Edenton to Newbern, from whence they may be transported by land to the Army. Resolved, That Colonel John Bryan, of Craven County, do procure a proper Boat, and send twelve armed men, under the conunand of an Officer, to Edenton for the said Stores, and deliver them in Newbern to the order of the Commissary.

Whereas the Council have received information that Benjamin Shcppard, of Dobbs County, hath passed, as and for good and lawful money, certain base Counterfeit Bills, in likeness of the four dollar Bills emitted in consequence of a Resolve of Congress, held at Hillsborough, Resolved, That Colonel Abraham Sheppard immediately take into his safe custody the said Benjamin Sheppard, and bring him forthwith before the Council, to answer of and concerning the premises, and that he take with him such aid as

may

be needful.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

NORTH-CAROLINA COUNCIL OF SAFETY, JUNE,

1453

TuesJay, June 25, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment.

he

is

Tarhorough,

same

in

the care of Henrtj Irwin, and repack the

at the publick

expense, and also to

sell

for the best

may be

price that can be had such Provisions as

unfit for

carriage or transportation.

Adjourned

till

Joseph Green, one of the Commissioners for purchasing in the County of Dobbs, exhibited an Account, whereby it appears that he hath received of the publick Treathat he hath purchased forty Guns at the price surer £150 of £149 9s. 4rf., which Guns he delivered to Captain fVilliam Caswell, of the Fifth Regiment of Continental Troops in this Province, for which he produced a Receipt; whereby it appears there is a balance of 10s. 8d. in the hands of the said Joseph Green, belonging to the publick. Resolved, That the said Joseph Green be allowed £10 for his extraordinary trouble and vigilance in procuring the said Arms, and that the Treasurers, or either of them, pay him £9 9s. ^d., being the balance of the said £10, and be allowed in their accounts with the publick.

Guns

;

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

till

Letters of

Heart-of-Oak, William Troop, chief MiiiK,-dn(l second Mate, officers on board the said Heart-of-Oak. be and are hereby, permitted to act against the enemies of the

to adjournment.

are permitted

Whereas eight Commissioners were appointed to fit out the armed Brig the Pennsylvania Farmer, at Newbern, and it appearing that a majority of the said Commissioners cannot be with conveniency on any occasion collected, whereby many delays and inconveniences may arise Resolved, That Messrs. Joseph Leech, Richard Ellis, and

David Baron, three of the said Commissioners, are hereby empowered and required to act and do all things necessary for the management of the said Brig and her crew on board, according to the directions of the Congress and Provincial Council heretofore made and lay an account of their pror ceedings before the next Provincial Congress. ;

Resolved, That John Guerard be allowed at the rate of per month for transporting the Army, with their baggage, and every other article belonging thereto, across the

£15

opposite to Wilmington, to

day of June

instant,

;

publick.

Resolved, That Richard Caswell, Esquire, publick Treadraw on the Continental Treasury in favour of Richard Ellis, Esquire, for 2,850 Dollars, being the amount of his claim for nineteen hundred weight surer of the Southern District,

commence from

to find

the 24th hands and boats and

Whereas Mr. John Green, of the Town of Newbern, hath Marque and Reprisal for an armed Schooner called the Johnston, belonging to the said John Green, Andrew Blanchard, Edward. Tinker, and David Baron, of the County of Craven, and Robert Salter, of the County of Pitt, and has also delivered in a schedule of the number of guns, and the names of the officers, the provisions, and warlike stores on board, and hath also given bond applied for Letters of

and security, agreeable to the Resolutions of the Continental Congress for that purpose and whereas the Commissions or Letters of Marque and Reprisal issued by the Congress for this Province are not yet arrived Resolved, That Edward Tinker, Captain, Reuben Doze, chief Mate, and Samuel Palmer, second Mate, officers on board the said Schooner Johnston, and her crew, be, and are hereby, permitted to act against the enemies of the Thirteen United Colonies, in manner and form as Letters of Marque and Reprisal are permitted by the Continental Con;

gress.

Adjourned

Met

allowed in bis accounts with the publick. Resolved, That Captain Thomas Nelmes be permitted to purchase a cargo of Provisions in tliis Province for Ber-

certain

muda.

to inflame the

for the use of the publick,

Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay

Captain Joshua Hampstead the sum of £120, for two hundred weight of Gunpowder, imported for the use of this Province, and be allowed in tlieir accounts with the to

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Friday, June 2S, 1776.

and be

Gunpowder imported

he agreeing

constant attendance for that purpose.

having applied to the President of the Council oi 'SdS&iy oi South- Carolina for the purchase of twenty pieces of Cannon, (double-fortified six-pounders,) imported into this Province by Captain Thomas JS/elmes, in the Schooner Little Thomas, which vessel is now lying at Newbern ; and Mr. Edward Blake, the half owner thereof, having signified in a Letter to said Captain Nelmes that the President of the Council of Safety had directions from that Board to load the said vessel from this Province at the expense of South- Carolina, and, in case of neglect, that he, the said Edward Blake, would pay the expense of such cargo, Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay to the said Thomas Nelmes the sum of £600, to enable him to procure a cargo for the said Schooner, for which sum the Province of South- Carolina is chargeable and if not paid by that Province, the said Edward Blake to be chargeable for the same, and be allowed in their accounts with the

of

manner and form as Letters of by the Continental Congress.

Resolved, That Mr. John Wood be appointed Second Lieutenant in Captain William Ward's Company, in the Fifth Regiment, of the American Army of this Province.

ferries

Thursday, June 27, 1776.

Met according The Congress

Marque and

Reprisal issued by the said Congress for this Province are not yet arrived Resolved, That George Dennison, Captain of the said

Marque

according to adjournment.

Adjourned

security agreeable to the Resolutions of the Continental Congress for that purpose and whereas the CommLssions or

Tiiirteen United Colonies, in

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

Wednesday, June 26, 1776.

Met

1454

;

That Robert Brignal, Esq., be requested, and hereby empowered, to examine the publick Provisions

Resolved, in

1776.

accordincr to adjournment.

Whereas the Council have received information that a Joshua Bently, of the County of Edgecombe, is a per-

common cause, and hath endeavoured minds of the people against the present Ameri-

son disaffected to the

can measures: Resolved, That

power of the

Abraham Sheppard, Esq., take such a may be necessary, and bring betbre

Militia as

publick.

this Council the body of the said Joshua Bently, to answer of and concerning the premises.

to

Resolved, That Captain Joshua Hampstead be pemiitted export white oak Staves from this Province to the French West-India Islands, to the amount of £120, being the net value of the Gunpowder imported by him for the use of the

Benjamin Sheppard, who was charged with passing CounMoney, being brought before the Council and examined, and not giving a satisfactory account in what manner he became possessed of the said Counterfeit Bills, and

publick.

circumstances tending to render the conduct of the said

Resolved, That Richard Ellis, Esquire, be permitted to export white oak Staves from this Province to the French, Dutch, or neutral West-India Islands, to the amount of £1,040, being the net value of the Gunpowder imported

Benjamin Sheppard suspicious Resolved, That the said Benjamin Sheppard do enter into bond, with security, in the sum of £1,000, with conditioa appear before this Council, to answer for his conduct hereto in whenever he may he called on for further inquiry.

by him

into this

Province

Whereas Richard hath applied

for

for the publick.

Ellis, Esq., of the

Letters of

Town

of Newbern,

Marque and Reprisal

for his

armed Sloop called the Heart-of-Oak, burden about seventy-tons, and hath also delivered in a schedule of the number of guns and the names of the officers, the provisions, and warlike stores on board, and hath also given bond and

terfeit

Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay to Mr. Charles Jaycocks, Commissary to the Eienton Brigade of Militia now in actual service, £500, to enable him to procure Provisions for the said Brigade, and be allowed in their accounts with the publick.

The

Council having .received information that

Thomas

NORTH-CAROLINA COUNCIL OF SAFETY, JULY,

1455

Harrison and William^ Taylor are persons disaffected to the nommon cause, and are endeavouring to dissuade the people from associating in defence of tlieir liberties, Besolved, Tliat Abraham Slupparcl, Esquire, of Dobbs

County, take sufficient aid and bring the said Thomas Harrison and IVilliarn Taylor before this Board, to answer of and concerning the premises.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Saturday, June 29, 1776.

I\Iet

according

to

1456

thousand twenty-two inch Shinfirst entering into bond, with security, before the Commissioner for the Port of Newbem, in the sum of £3,000, that he will import into this Province the whole amount of the net proceeds of the above articles, in Arms, Ammunition, and Salt, the danger of the

hogshead Heading, and gles

the said

;

fifty

David Baron

and enemy excepted.

seas

Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay to Mr. David Smith £3, for his expenses and attendance on this Board, and be allowed the same in their accounts with the publick.

adjournment.

Bryan, Colonel of the Militia of Johnston County, hath complained to the Council that some of the Militia who were drafted pursuant to a Resolve of Congress have refused to serve

Whereas

1776.

JVilliam

Resolved, That James Coor, Esquire, be appointed Comand missioner for the Port of JSeivbern, in this Province ;

that he enter into bond, with security, in the for the faithful discharge

of his

sum of £5,000,

office.

:

Resolved, That the said JVilliam Bryan issue his Warrant for the recovery of the fines, pursuant to the Militia Law and Resolution of the Congress in that case made and provided, and that

Needham Bryan,

County, be empowered

to

late Sheriff of Jo/i?is^o?i

execute the same.

Resolved, That the Treasurers, or either of them, pay to Walter Gibson, Commissary to the Newbem and Wilmington Brigades of ftlilitia, the sum of £1,000, to enable him to

procure Provisions for the said Militia Brigades, and be in their accounts with the publick.

al-

lowed

Whereas it appears to the Council that Robert Cochran, Esq., has advanced to Colonel Alexander Martin, of the Second Regiment of Continental Troops in this Province,

£160; and amounting to

as per receipt,

also to

£22

£182

Cz^imn John Armstrong

pay of the Regiment Resolved, That the Paymaster pay Robert Cochran the sum of £182 6s. 2d., and be allowed the same in his accounts with the publick, and deduct the same out of the pay 6s. 2rf.,

Qs. '2d., in part

said

Resolved, That the Captains of each Independent Company stationed on the sea-coast in this Province, do purchase, at the expense of the publick, three good suitable Boats for each Company, provided that such Boats so to be purchased do not exceed the sum of £10 each. till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

Sunday, June 30, 177G.

Met

according to adjournment.

row morning,

Adjourned

to-mor-

till

1,

1776.

according to adjournment.

Resolved, That

all

persons

who have

Horees, Guns, or

other articles, in their possession, which were impressed, brought, or taken into service of the publick, on the expedi-

Cape-Fear, and no owner appearing to claim, bring or send the same to Captain Wilthose who liam Whitfield, on Neuse, in Dobbs County neglect so to do will be compelled to make good the sum which such articles were valued to.

tion

against the Tories

and

to

;

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Thursday, July

Met

4,

1776.

according to adjournment.

Whereas the Continental Congress, in order that an equal and general representation should be made in the Thirteen United Colonies, on the 26th day of December last did resolve that the most effectual means should be taken in each Colony by the Assemblies, Councils, or Committees of Safety, to ascertain an impartial list of the number of the Inhabitants in their respective Colonies

Resolved, therefore. That the Committees of the several Counties and Towns within this Province take the most effectual method to obtain an exact list of the number of Inhabitants in their respective Counties and Towns, distinguished as directed by the Resolve of the Provincial Conand that the Chairman of gress at Hillsborough, in 1775 the said Commhtees transmit to this Board such list, properly authenticated, by the persons who shall be intrusted with ;

that the

three months from this time, in order same may be transmitted to the Continental Con-

gress.

Resolved, That the Captain of each

Company

of

Con-

Troops raised in this Province do pay to such persons as may apprehend and deliver to them any deserting Soldier belonging to his Company, such a sum of money as may be reasonable and equal to the trouble and expense tinental

of apprehending such Soldier or Soldiere, not exceeding and deduct the same out of the pay of such Soldier.

The

£5,

Council, taking into consideration the present alarm-

ing and dangerous situation of this Province, and reflecting,

eight o'clock.

Monday, July

Met

till

this service, within

of the said Regiment.

Adjourned

Adjourned

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

with the greatest concern, that a number of people, nursed up in the very bosom of the country, who, by their pretended neutrality, virtually declare themselves enemies to the American Union, while others, more daring, refuse to receive in payment the publick Bills of Credit of this Province issued

very purpose of securing to our posterity the most inestimable blessings of peace, liberty, and property; and whereas the King and Parliament of Great Britain have, ibr the

under colour of law, directed their Troops to seize and deand properties of the good people of this Province In order, therefore, to secure the property of such instruments of despotism, and prevent the fatal effects that might otherwise result from their conduct Resolved, That the Committees of the several Counties in this Province do immediately call on every such person within their respective Counties to render an inventory, on oath, of all and singular their real and personal estate and in case of neglect or refusal, they do direct the Commanding Officer of the County forthwith to cause such suspected pei-son to be brought before this Board.

stroy the persons :

:

Tuesday, July

Met

2,

1776.

according to adjournment.

Resolved, That John Pasture be appointed Second Lieutenant in Captain George Mitchell's Company, in the Sixth

Regiment of the American Army room of Maurice Jones, resigned.

this

in

Province,

in the

Resolved, That Christopher Ncale, Esq., Judge of the Court of Admiralty at Port JSewbcrn, do immediately proceed on the trial of the Brigantine William, seized as British property, and now lying at the said Port, agreeable to the Resolves of the Congress.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Wednesday July

Met

3,

1776.

according to adjournment.

Resolved, That Mr. David Baron be permitted to ship to the French, Dutch, or Neutral West-India Islands, twentysix thousand four hundred white oak Staves, fifty-two thousand red oak Staves, two thousand five hundred white oak

;

The

Council being informed that the Committee of the into their possession a large quantity of Salt, the propeity of Mr. John James ; and it appearing that Salt may, at this time, be purchased at or near Wilmington, and that the said Mr. James hath contracted to procure Provisions for the use of this Province Resolved, That the said Committee do suffer Mr. James to retain in the County, for the purpose aforesaid, any quan-

County of Duplin have taken

of Salt, not exceeding two hundred bushels ; and in case the remainder should be wanted by the inhabitants of the said County, that they do allow him the sum of 10s., Protity

clamation, per bushel, for the same; and that they do not sell

more than two bushels

to

any one family.

BALTIMORE COUNTY COMMITTEE, MAY,

1457

Wkiimill HiU, Esq., one of the Commissioners appointed by the Provincial Council to charter a Vessel or Vessels, and agree with Masters and Seamen, to proceed on a voyage, at the expense of this Province, for Arms and Ammunition, exhibited his Account, whereby it appears that he hath received from the publick Treasury the sum of £ I ,.500 that he hath regularly laid out and expended in cargoes, which he shipped on board Captain James Butler and Captain Daniel Cartwright, on account of this Province, the sum £1,499 14s. Id., which leaves a balance of 5.s. 5d. in the hands of the said Whitmill Hill due to the publick, which balances his Account.

paying for the same and that the remainder of the Salt be kept until further orders from this Board, except what belongs to the Commissaries Mallet and Gibson. ;

Whereas Peter Mallei and Robert Cobb, Esns., two of the Commissioners for inventorying the Tories' Kstates in Cumberland County, appointed by Congress,

Resolved, therefore. That Mr. David Smith and Mr. John Walsh be added to the Commissioners ap[)oirited by the Congress, and are hereby invested with the same powers and subject to the same restrictions as the Commissioners

appointed by Congress. Resolved, That Dr. Isaac Guion be appointed sary to

Friday, July 5, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment. deliver

to

said

May

7,

till

Monday

morning, eight o'clock.

John Chapman Second Lieutenant, Richard Shipley containing seventy-seven Privates. ; Charles Carnan Captain, William Hudson First Lieu-

tenant,

1776

Ensign

:

5.

Andrew Buchanan, Chairman pro tern., T. Harrison, J. Merryman, J. E. Howard, W. Aisquith, J. Cradock, J. Calhoun, J. Cockey, J, Boyd, Secretary pro tern.

Present

of Militia stationed on by Captain Selby Harney, in the hath inlisted as a soldier in the

Company.

Adjourned

BALTIMORE COUNTY COMMITTEE. a special meeting of the Committee,

Commis-

Company

commanded

room of Hull Doty, who

William Sheppard, of Surry County, sixty bushels of Salt out of that belonging to Robert Gilles, of Cross Creek, the said Wil-

At

Independent

tlie

the sea-coast,

That Colonel Folesome

Resolved,

enfaced

are so that they cannot attend that duty:

Army

in the

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

till

1458

liam Sheppard

;

Adjourned

1776.

:

Richard Marsh Second Lieutenant, Thomas

tenant,

Doyk

Ensign containing seventy-nine Privates. 6. Nathaniel Stinchicomb Captain, Joseph Gist Firet Lieutenant, John Worthington Dorsey Second Lieutenant, Joshua Owings (of John) Ensign; containino- seventy-six ;

Alexander McGee was brought before the Committee, and several allegations being read to him of a dangerous nature to the peace and union of the people in their present opposition to British tyranny, which allegations are supported by the testimony of Messi-s. William Buchanan, William Lyon, Robert Lyon, and James Calhoun, and said McGee acknowledging the truth of some, and equivocating as to others of them, appears to this Committee to be a dangerous man, and highly inimical to American liberty; wherefore they are of opinion that the said McGee ought to be kept in safe custody till further orders from the Conven tion and Council of Safety, and that the following account of the matter be transmitted

to

them

for that

purpose

" In Committee, Baltimore,

May

7,

:

1776.

Gentlemen The

"

enclosed contains opinions and sentiments of a certain Alexander McGee, an inhabitant of this :

County, which appear to this Committee to be dangerous and inimical to the cause in which America is embarked. On examining the man, he avowed some of them, and equivocated as to others, and as he appears to have some influence among the common people, the Committee thought it their duty to order him into custody, and to be kept safe till your further directions can be obtained. If you choose that he should be sent

down

whom

manner, and by

he

to is

We

all

present.)

George Lux,

Attest

At a meeting of the Committee,

May

13,

Secretary.

1776:

Present: Samuel Purviance, Jun., Chairman, A Buchanan, C. Ridgely, (of William,) J. Merryman, W. Wilkinson, T. Harrison, J. E. Howard, J. Gitiings, B. Griffith, J. Calhoun, W. Aisquith, T. SoUers, T. Rutter, J. Griest, T. Gist, J. Boyd.

Captains Isaac

phen

following

Committee

talion

Ste-

Gill, severally returned their Enrollments.

The this

Hammond, Mordecai Hammond, and is

the

to the

list

of Companies

Convention

Hammond

Captain, Christopher

into a

Bat-

:

Benjamin Nicholson Captain, John Cockey Owings First Lieutenant, Richard Colegate Second Lieutenant, Joshua Cockey (of Edward) Ensign containing 2. Samuel Owings Captain, Alexander Wells First Lieutenant, Thomas Oivings Second Lieutenant, David Suth-

Chenoweth Ensign 8. Mordecai Hammond Captain, Aquila Hooker First Lieutenant, Richard Davis Second Lieutenant, Edward Parish (pi Edward) Ensign containing fifty-five Privates, ;

;

Whereas Doctor Robert Lemmon, o( North-Hundred apply to sons remained lately

this

in

Committee, setting

said

;

Fourth

vi.

many

,

did

per-

Hundred who had not signed the

Company of Militia in consequence of which a blank enrollment and Association paper were delivered to the said Doctor Lemmon, in order to offer the same to be subscribed by such persons as had not already done so These are to certify that it was not the intention of the Committee, by giving said Association and enrollment papers to Doctor Lemmon, to make any alteration in Captain Stephen GiWs, or any other Company of Militia already enrolled or formed in said Hundred. ;

:

George Lux,

Attest

Secretary.

At a meeting of the Committee, May 20, 1776: John Smith, Chairman pro tern., T. Harrison, B. Griffith, G. Vaughan, W. Aisquith, A. Brilton, T. Sollers, J. Calhoun, J. Cradock, J. E. Howard, T. Gist, D. Lux, J. Boyd.

Present

:

An Association Paper was delivered in by Mr. Edmund Stansbury, Jun., and also a list of non-Associators and nonEnrollers; but he having informed the Committee that Captain John Stevenson has detained his Enrollment, and thereby prevented from finishing his business Resolved, That this matter be referred for further consideration.

Messrs. Wheeler Murray and James Boring having alleged that Mr. Thomas Stansbury, Jun., has'declared an intention of joining the Ministerial forces in case they should

here Resolved, That the said IMiceler Murray and James Boring be summoned to attend this Committee on Monday next, to prove their charges.

George Lux, At

Secretary.

May 27, 1776 Samuel Purviance, Jun., Chairman, W. Buchanan, B. NichJ. Merryman, T. Harrison, W. Aisquith, J. Calhoun. B. Griffith,

a meeting of the Committee,

Present

:

olson,

containing seventy-five Privates.

Richard Owings (of Samuel) Captain, Joshua Porter First Lieutenant, Benjamin Lawrence Second Lieutenant, James Barnes Ensign; containing fifty-eight Privates 4. Thomas Phillips C-dpla'm, Joshua Dorsey First LieuSeries. — Vol.

forth that

Association or enrolled in any

;

3.

First

Lieutenant, William containing seventy-five Privates,

1.

erland Ensign

Owings

Merryman Second

come

recommended by

be formed

to

Isaac

7.

Lieutenant, Samuel

you, please to direct in what to be guarded, and at whose

expense, as the commanding officer here apprehends he has no authority to act in the matter, further than to guard him till your answer can be received. " are, &c." (Signed by

Privates.

T. Sollers,

J.

Cockey,

J. Slerrett, J.

Smith,

J. Griest, J.

Boyd.

Messrs. Nicholas ISorwood and John Perigo are appointed to value all the Guns that have been or may be taken

from the non-Associators and non-Enrollers Lower Hundred by Captain Josias Bowen.

92

in

Patapsco

BALTIMORE COUNTY COMMITTEE, JUNE,

1459

At

The same

gentlemen are also appointed to appraise the in to-day by Captain Ullliam Cromwell.

1776.

1460

a special meeting of the Committee,

May 30,

1776

Guns and some Powder brought

Present: Samuel Purviance, Jun., Chairman, W. Lux, Vice-Chairman, J. Smith, J. Calhoun, J. Boyd, W. Aisquith, Z. McCubbin.

Seven and a half pounds of Powder, taken from Harry Dorset/ Gough, Esq., (a non-Associator and non-Enroller.) by Captain William Cromwell, were left with the Committee,

Doctor William Lyon made application to the Commitinforming them that Mr. Charles Grahame had intended to bring up four of his children to his house to be inoculated by him, previous to the Resolve of the 28th instant, and requested the sense of the Committee thereon, whether or not he might have permission to proceed in the said inoculation, as he apprehended that, although he intended to perform the operation himself, yet he did not consider himself as a practising Physician, and that, from the distance of his situation from town, he was of opinion there could not be the least danger of the infection's spreading. The Com-

to

be disposed of by them as shall

them seem expedient.

to

Mr. John Merryman, Jun., is appointed Treasurer and Receiver of the Assessments to be collected from the nonEnroUers by the different Collectors of this County. Mr. George JVoolsey is appointed Collector of the Assessments from the non-Enrollers of JVcstminstcr, Baltimore Town, West, Baltimore Town, East, and Deptford Hundreds.

Mr. Charles Rogers for Middlesex and Patapsco, Lower, and Mv. William Cromtvell (of William) for Soldiers' Delight and Ftttapsco, Upper Hundreds.

The

following

is

the form of the Warrant granted to the

tee,

mittee, considering duly his request:

Resolved, That however willing they may be to oblige Mr. Grahame, they cannot deviate from their general line of conduct, and therefore refuse the requested permission.

" In Committee,

^

"Mr. " Sir

... .B ....

You

:

The Committee met on Monday, June empowered

to col-

and receive all sums of money by the Committee of Baltimore County assessed, and to be assessed, on the nonHundred, and in default of payEnrollers of ment, (after giving one month's notice of such assessment,) to distrain the goods and effects of said defaulters, and sell and dispose of the same in the same manner that goods may be distrained and sold by law for County levies. In so doing this shall be your Warrant. " Signed per order Chairman."

James Boring and Wheeler Murray having,

Thomas Stansbury,

charge alleged against him mittee

at the last

in

a

Jun., from the

meeting of the

Com-

:

That the charge Thomas Stansbury, Jun., is groundless, and that the said Thomas Stansbury, Jun., is entitled to the thanks of every friend to the cause of American liberty in general, and this Committee in particular, for his uniform, warm, and forward zeal in the cause of liberty since the commencement of the present unhappy disturbances.

Upon

Upon motion by Doctor Robert Lemmon, Captain

Ste-

is hereby requested to attend on Monday, the 10th of June, to answer to the allegations of the aforesaid Dr. Robert Lemmon and others, contained in a paper just now

phen Gill

in to

the Committee.

George Lux,

Attest

At a meeting of the Committee,

May

Secretary.

28, 1776

Present William Lux, Chairman, A. Buchanan, B. Nicholson, T. Harrison, W, Aisquith, J. Calhoun, J. Griest, J. Smith, J. Boyd. :

Whereas many of the Troops

in

the Provincial service,

have never had the Small-Pox, and necessary and expedient in this time of danger to endea-

as well as the Militia, it is

vour as much as possible to prevent that contagious disorder from spreading this Committee, taking the same into conbe recommended to the Physicians and Surgeons in this County to desist from inoculating any person or persons whatever within the said County until the it

further determination of the

Signed per order:

Committee.

William Lux,

Chair'n.

In consequence of the above request from the Committee, several Doctors waited on them, and signed the following

Paper

We, the subscribers, practising Physicians in the Town of Baltimore, sensible of the propriety and necessity of the Resolve of the Committee that inoculation for the small-pox should, for the present, be suspended, do cheerfully engage that we will not, for the future, inoculate any persons whatever in this County, till the further directions from this Com-

mittee,

Ch's Fred. Wiesenthall, John Boyd, Patrick Kennedy, Henry Stevenson. William Beard, Attest George Lux, Secretary.

lives

on Todd's Island, near

Committee that, for £6, he would give intelligence up the Bay and to this Town, when the enemy were coming up the Bay, for one year; that he will keep a Boat in constant readiness for the purpose, to run up the Bay, and will despatch the intelligence for the Town by Mr. Roles, who lives near him on th(5 main, who shall be paid for his trouble in riding up to Town by the Committee. The Committee, on considering Mr. Holmes's proposals, agreed to lay the same before the Council of Safety. Mr.

Hugh

to this

Westbay presented a Petition to this Commitand praying an exemption from

tee, setting forth his poverty, his fine as

being a non-Enroller. it was Resolved, n.

Whereupon

That

c. d.,

his fine

ought

not to be remitted.

Miss Goddard informed this Committee, by Letter, that on Wednesday last Mr. George Somerville came to her office and abused her with threats and indecent language on acThe Conmiittee, count of a late publication in her paper. conceiving it to be their duty to inquire into everything that has a tendency to restrain the liberty of the Press, Ordered, That a Summons be issued for the said George Somerville, returnable at three o'clock P. M.

Complaint being made to the Committee by Mr. Benjamin Levy, Clerk to the Mercantile Company, that Conrad Appleman, a Member of said Company, refuses to pay the fines assessed on him for non-attendance of the Company: Ordered, That a Warrant be issued to distrain the effects of the said Appleman, and to dispose of as much of the same as

may

discharge the fines incurred, agreeable to the

Re-

solve of the Convention.

Which Warrant " Whereas

That

T. Kuttcr.

J. Gillis, J. Sterrett,

North-Point, proposed

;

Resolve,

A. Britain,

Mr. William Holmes, who

sideration,

Do

:

Sollers,

motion, Resolved, unanimously,

exhibited against Mr.

handed

J.

1776:

3,

Samuel Purviance, Jun., Chairman, J. Smith, T. Gist, J. Boyd' Griest, W. Wilkinson, J. Merryman, J. Calhoun, B. Griffith, T-

Present

lect

IMessrs.

tS'ecreian/.

&c.

:

are hereby appointed and

written paper, exculpated

George Lux,

Attest:

Collectors of the Assessments

is

worded

as follows

certified to this

it is

:

Committee

that a certain

Conrad Appleman (who has enrolled in the Mercantile Company of Militia) has been fined by the Officers of the said Company in the sum of 15s. for his non-attendance at three several times at the mustering of said Company, which fines he refuses to pay These are therefore to require and command you to seize and distress the goods and effects of the said Conrad Appleman, sufficient to pay the said fines, and sell the same agreeable to the Resolve of the Convention in such case made and provided and for your so doing, this :

;

your sufficient Warrant. " Signed per order

shall be

"

»

To

Samuel Purviance,

Jun., Ch'n.

C. Frolick."

Mr. Joshua Gist is appointed Collector of the Assessments in Pipe Creek and Delaware Hundreds.

That blank Enrollment and AsMr. John Murray, in Pipe Creek Hundred, to get the same signed by such persons in said Hundred, between the Conaivaga Road and the Black Rock

Upon

motion, Ordered,

sociation Papers be sent to

BALTIMORE COUNTY COMMITTEE, JUNE,

1461

have not yet signed the same ing Letter he written to him

Run,

as

;

and that the follow-

" In Committee, Baltimore, June

"Sir: This Committee being informed

that a

3,

1462

Committee have power of remitting to them shall seem exjiedient.

Upon

1776.

number of

1776.

.such part

Leonard JlarbaugJCs was reduced to £6.

motion, Mr.

not enrolling,

Upon

of the

fine

fine as

of £10,

for

persons in Pij}e Creek Hundred, particularly those situated between the Conawaga Road and the Black Rock Run, have not had an opportunity of signing the Association and Enrollment Papers, enjoined by Convention, for want of persons being appointed to carry round the same in said District, it is therefore agreed upon to transmit copies of the

Robinson (First Lieutenant to Captain Stone, on board the Hornet sloop-of-war, from this Pori) to a Member of this Committee, was ordered to be j)ublished,in order to remove any prejudices that may by many have been too hastily

same

conceived against Captain Stone.

to you, as a person well affected to the cause of liber-

requesting that you will endeavour to get the

ty,

same

you will make a proper return to this as soon as possible of the same, with an exact such persons in said District as refuse to enroll or

subscribed, and that

Committee list

of

all

associate.

"Per

order of the Committee: " Samuel Purviance, Jun., Ch'n."

Mr. George Somerville not having appeared agreeable to also behaving in an insolent manner to the Messenger from this Committee, Captain Sterrett is directed to get a detachment of his Company and bring him to the Committee-Room, even by force, if necessary.

Summons, and

The

"

It

Mr. DuOrder of the Committee, signed

following Certificate was, at the request of

gan, and agreeable by the Chairman is

chant of

hereby

to the

certified that

this place,

Mr. Cumberland Dugan, Mer-

has been extensively concerned in the

New-England for several years past, and that we have no doubts concerning the facts set forth in his Petition. The Schooner belonging to Captain Adams, in which he intended shipping his flour, Sic, is one of the vessels which was sunk at IVhelstone in March last. " Signed per order of the Committee " Samuel Purviance, Jun., Ch'n." trade for

:

Mr. George Somerville (guarded by a detachment of the Independent Company) came before the Committee, and it appearing to this Committee, by the evidence of Miss Goddard, that his conduct had a direct tendency to influence the freedom of the Press, which in every free country should be inviolably maintained, and on account of his contemptuous treatment of this Committee It was Resolved, unanimously, That Mr. Somerville be censured by the Chairman and, as he now refuses to sign ;

the Enrollment or Association Papers his

when tendered

to

was determined that he give bond, with security, for future good behaviour, agreeable to directions of the

him,

it

Convention.

t c (jeorge Lux, ibecretary. /-,

..

The Committee met on Monday, June

10,

application

by Captain William Stone, a Letter Committee) from Mr. Isaiah

(undei' the sanction of this

On motion, iicso/rtt/, That Messrs. James Calhoun, fl'illiam Aisquith, and John Eager Howard, be a Committee for the Town, and Messrs. Gist, Vaughan, and .John Corkey, for the County, to inquire the quantities of Salt in this Town and County, and report the same to the Committee at their meeting on Monday next. And that venders of Salt do not sell or dispose of more than bushels to any one purchaser at one time, without having the license of some Memberof this Committee, until the Committee take further order therein.

The Enrollment of Captain William Wilkinson's Company, containing fifty-two, (Officers included,) was delivered in,

and received.

George Lux,

Attest

The Committee met on Monday, June

Secretary.

17, 1776:

Present: Samuel Purviance, Chairman, W. Lux, Vice-Chairman, ABuchanan, W. Buchanan, B. Nicholson, J. Merryman, Z. McCubbin, T. Harrison, J. E. Howard, W. Tolley, Jun., B. Griffith, W. Aisquith, J. Calhoun, G. Vaughan, J. Cradock, G. Risteau, A. Brittain, T. Sellers, J. Sterrett, T. Ruder, J. Gittings, D. Lux, J. Moale, J. Griest, T. Gist, J. Boyd, George Lux, Secretary.

The

following persons were appointed Collectors of Fines in the different Hundreds, from the non-

and Assessments, Enrollers

Captain James Bosky,

for

Gunpowder, Upper, and Mine

Run. Captain John Hall, (of Joshua,) for North. Captain John Cockey Owings, {or Back River, Vp^er. Mr. Joseph Britain, for Back River, Lower, and 31id-

Lower. Mr. Abraham Cole,

dle River,

Mary All

for

Middle River, LTpper.

exhibited a complaint against

John Marshall

Colt for rent, she having first offered him discharge thereof. The parties are directed to at-

for distraining a

Wheat

in

tend the Committee on

Monday next, with

their evidences.

Edward

Talbot, Sen., Daniel Shatv, and John Standiford, were elected Members of this Committee, in the

Messrs.

stead of Messrs. Charles Ridgely, John Stevenson, and Samuel TVorthington, who, being duly elected Committee-men,

1776:

Present Samuel Purviance, Jun., Chairman, W. Lux, Vice-Chairman, B. Nicholson, A.Buchanan, W.Buchanan, C. Hitlgeiy, (of William,) J. Merryman, W. Wilkinson, T. Harrison, J. E. Howard, W. ToUey, Jun., J. Gittings, B.Griffith, J. Calhoun, W. Aisquith, J. Cradock, T. Sellers, A. Brittain, J. Cockey, D. Lux, J. Boyd.

refused to act.

:

Whereas Doctor Robert Lemmon

did, at the last

meeting

of the Committee, in the behalf of himself and others, complain of an undue election of the Officers in a Company of Militia commanded by Captain Stephen Gill; and the parties appearing and adducing their evidences, the Committee, on considering the same, Do Resolve, That the election of Officers in said Company be set aside, and a new one be ordered to be held on Saturday, the 22d instant, at two o'clock in the afternoon, at Phillis

Zane

Cross's,

separately, and a

list

and that each Officer be voted

for

of the voters' names be taken by the

and the Committee recommend to all the Enrollers in said Hundred, as well as others who have not yet enrolled but shall on or before the said day enroll themselves, to attend on the said day, and endeavour to compose two Companies, to consist of at least forty Privates each, which they conceive can easily be effected, and will be the best proof they can give of their attachment to, and preservation of, the liberties of their Clerk

at the

time the tickets are delivered

;

country.

Upon

The Committee appointed to inquire into the quantities Town, made their Report. (Vide Report.)

of Salt in this

Whereupon,

it

was determined

that the following

Adver-

tisement be published in the Papers

"It appearing that some persons

demanded and obtained

in this

County have

exorbitant prices for Salt, this

Com-

duty to regulate the price of it, so as to prevent unreasonable exactions on one hand, and on the other hand have a due and proper regard to the difficulty and risk of importation, agreeable to the recommendation of Congress '• Therefore, Resolved, That the price of foreign Salt be mittee think

it

their

fixed at the rate of l-2s. per bushel.

" If any pei-sons shall by any art or evasion elude the above sell the above article at the said limited price, they may depend upon being held up as enemies to their country, without respect to pereons ; and they may be assured that the Committee will take such further Resolution, by refusing to

steps (if necessary) as will effectually carry into execution

the abo\e Resolution of Congress.

All virtuous people are requested to use their utmost endeavours to detect and brino' to justice all such persons as presume to offend against the

above regulation." motion, Resolved, unanimously.

That when any

non-EnroUer appears to this Committee to have been assessed more than what his circumstances will allow, that the

A

Letter from Robert Alexander, Esq., relative to a Powder sent from Fhiladelphia for Doctor John Stevenson, was laid before the Committee ; and information

barrel of

BALTIMORE COUNTY COMMITTEE, JULY,

1463

bein" made by Mr. William Litx that the Council of Safety had communicated a Letter to him from Doctor Stevenson that this Committee had taken two barrels or casks of Powder from him, for which they had never paid him, or delivered the Powder, the Chairman is requested to write a Letter to the Council of Safety requesting a copy of the Letter. The Committee took Mr. Alexander's Letter into consi-

Doctor Stevenson has neither signed the Association or Enrollment, he stands in the light of an enemy to America, and therefore it would be They dangerous to trust so much Powder in his hands. therefore will write to the Council of Safety for their orders deration, and are of opinion, that as

therein.

Complaint having been made to this Committee that a John Burns keeps a Billiard-Table, and that ShuffleBoards are kept at John Smith's and at Abraham Gorman's, at all of which houses encouragement was given to gaming, certain

and great disorders committed, to the injury of the Militia and die Sailors and Mariners employed in the publick serand the same being contrary to the vice, as well as others Regulations and Resolves of the honourable the Continental Congress Besolved, That the Chairman issue his Summons for the said persons to attend the Committee to-morrow, to answer the complaints alleged against them. ;

George Lux,

The Committee met on Monday, June

Secretary.

ventions, Councils of Safety, and Committees, and also that he had been guilty of sundry other practices inimical to American liberty, and tending to disunite the people, the Committee summoned the said Dr. Stevenson to appear before them, which he accordingly did but Mr. Dugan having gone abroad before his Summons was written, they postponed the determination of the first charge until Monday next, at which time it is expected Mr. Dugan will be present, and proceeded to examine simdry witnesses respecting the latter and it appears that Dr. Stevenson had part of the charges advised a certain Alexander McGee (who had been put under guard by this Committee for inimical practices and dangerous doctrines by him propagated among the people) to persevere for in his principles, for that he should soon be relieved which conduct, and that of his being a non-Associator, they adjudge him to give security for his good behaviour, agreeable to order of the Convention, and that he attend the Committee on Monday next, at ten o'clock, to answer the other charge exhibited against him by Mr. Dugan. ;

;

;

At

The Committee considered the allegations of Mr. Galloway, and a Certificate signed by Thomas Rankin on behalf of the Yearly Conference of the Society called Methodists, setting forth the said Nathan Perigo is a Local Preacher

in

are of opinion that the allegations of the in behalf of the said Sater Stevenson

Moses Galloway,

to the

Council of Safety now sitting, in order to obtain their sense far the exemption of Clergymen ought to be extended towards persons professing themselves Preachers among the Society called Methodists, Quakers, or other denominations,

how

where the rules of ordination, or modes of constituting Clergymen, are not generally and explicitly known. Captain Job Garritson applied for four Guns seized by him from non-Associators and non-EnroUers in Back River, Lower Hundred, for the use of such persons in his Company as have not Arms; which was granted, on condition of his giving a certificate and receipt for the same at the price they were appraised at. Captain Zachariah McCubbin having complained to this Committee that the Certificate lately produced by Mr. Thomas Lloyd of his having enrolled in Captain Ellicott's Company, was done merely with a design to screen himself from and also that the fine assessed on him by the Committee the said Lloyd hath been guilty of giving evil advice to an ;

Company, tending to counteract the orders of the Officers of said Company, and promote discord among the Members thereof: Ordered, That the said Thomas Lloyd be summoned to Enroller in his

in order, to

answer

to the

charge

of Captain McCubbin.

A

Captain Gist Vaughan was produced, appears that Mr. Stephen Gill was elected Captain, Mr. Thomas Bond First Lieutenant, Mr. James Trapnail Second Lieutenant, and Mr. Nicholas Gill Ensign, of Certificate from

wherein

a

it

Company Attest

of Militia

in

North Hundred.

Geokge Lux,

1,

1776

:

Mr. Benkid Willson (who, with his two sons, were some time ago fined by this Committee as non-Enrollers) formerly alleged that his eldest son resided in Harford County, and consequently is liable to be fined there, and his youngest But as Captain James son is under sixteen years of age. Bosley has informed this Committee that he was told by the elder son of the younger's being above sixteen years old, and

attend this Committee, next

a meeting of the Committee, July

Secretary.

Present: Samuel Purviance, Jun., Chairman, A.Buchanan, W. Bucha" nan, J. Merryman, Z. McCubbin, John E. Howard, W. Aisquith, JCalhoun, B. Griffith, A. Brittain, T. Sollers, T. Gist, D. Lux, JGriest, J. Gillis, T. Kutter, E. Talbot, J. Cockey, F. Decker, George

come under the denomination of Clergymen, and therefore, by the Resolves of the Convention, are not finable.

and Nathan Perigo, should be stated and transmitted

George Lux,

Attest

Lux, Secretary.

Moses Galloway having applied to this Committee in behalf of Saier Stevenson and Nathan Perigo, two persons assessed by the Committee as non-Associators and nonEnroUers, alleging that they, being Methodist Preachers, do

said

1464

Complaint being made by Cumberland Dugan that Dr. Henry Stevenson had reflected upon all Congresses, Con-

25, 1776:

Present: Samuel Purviance, Jun., Chairman, W. Buchanan, A. Buchanan, Z. McCubbin, W. Wilkinson, B. Griffith, W. Aisquith, J. Calhoun, A. Brittain, T. Sollers, J. Boyd, D. Shaw, E. Talbot.

among them, and

1776.

Secretary.

also

by others that the elder son was not assessed

Harford County, on a presumption of

his

Baltimore, the fines were continued.

Mr. Jacob Wright (son of William^ is certified to be subject to fits, and is thereby exempted from the fine imposed upon him as a non-EnroUer. Mr. Thomas Lloyd attended, agreeable

to

Summons,

a meeting of the Committee, June 25,

1776:

Samuel Purviance, Jun., Chairman, Andrew Buchanan, Z. McCubbin, William Aisquith, Benjamin Griffith, James Cftlhoun, Abraham Brittain, E. Talbot, Darby Lux.

Present

:

to

answer to the complaint exhibited against him by Captain Zach. McCubbin, of his having given evil advice to an Enand Mr. Peter roller in said Captain McCubbin' s Company Hush being sworn, deposed diat he was at JoAre Ellicott's Mill one day with Thomas Lloyd, who told him that Captain McCubbin ought to be broke for sending a file of men for d fool if he did not complain him, and that he was a d ;

to the

Committee.

Samiiel Kinsey deposed and said That he heard Thomas Lloyd one day say that he was sure if Peter Hush would complain to tlie Committee of Captain McCubbin's sending :

to seize him, and bring him before the Commight be broke, as he exceeded the bounds allotted him by the Convention, and therefore was guilty of an infringement upon the liberties of the people. Upon motion. Resolved, unanimously, That it appears to this Committee that it was a rule entered into aiid agreed

a

file

of

men

mittee, he

upon by a large majority of Captain McCubbin's Company, if any member of said Company neglected to muster at three successive meetings, the Captain should be empowered to send a file of men to bring such defaulter to the mustering-

ground, and there know his reasons why he refused or neglected to attend the meetings, in order to fine him or not, as might be judged expedient, whereby this rule has every force and sanction of a law in said Company therefore this Committee think that Mr. Thomas Lloyd, in his advice to ;

Mr. Henry Hush, has been guilty of creating dissensions, a to American liberty, when unanimity Thereis essentially requisite to maintain our dearest rights fore this Committee do determine that the Chairman do censure Mr. Lloyd for such conduct, as highly reprehensible and dangerous, and admonish him to be more cautious in which censure was accordingly his behaviour for the future passed upon Mr. Lloyd by the Chairman, and a copy of it

conduct highly inimical

:

;

At

in

being a resident

furnished to him.

Attest:

Geougz hvx,

Secretary.

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY,

1465

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY. At a meeting of

the Council of Safety for tho Province of Maryland, at the City of Annapolis, on Monday, the

present: The Hon. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, Esq., Charles Carroll, Barrister, John Hall, and James Tilghman, Esquires.

Were

Mr. Jenifer was qualified before Mr. Hall, and Mr. Carroll, Mr. Hall, and Mr. Tilghman, before Mr. Jenifer, by taking the oath prescribed by the Convention. Gabriel Duvall was appointed Clerk, and qualified before Mr. Jenifer, by taking the oath directed by the Convention.

The Honourable Daniel of was chosen President. of Letter No.

1

St.

Thomas

Jenifer, Esquire,

till

to

1466

Captain James Nicholson, of the Ship

Commissions issued to Thomas Willson, appointed CapKerr First Lieutenant, Robert Tale Second LieuForrester Ensign, of a Company of tenant, and Militia, in (^ueen Anne's County, belonging to the Twentieth Battalion.

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Westem-.Shore pay Henry Hollingsworth, of Cecil County, £.500, account of his contract to manufacture

to Colonel

common money, on Gun-barrels.

Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to the said Hollingsworth £4 4s. 10c/., like money, being the amount of his account for carriage of Gunpowder from Christiana lu

Susquehannah.

was sent

to the

Committee of Ob-

Ordered, That Colonel Smullwood be requested to send Magazine near Captain James TooicWs, in the neighbourhood oi Annapolis.

a sufficient detachment to guard the

servation for Worcester County.

Adjourned

and copy of No. 7 Defence.

1776.

tain, ./ohn

27th oiMay, 1776:

Copy

JUNE,

next day, ten o'clock. Tuesday,

May

28, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment. Present as yesterday, and Hon. George Plater, Esq., who was qualified before Mr. Hall, by taking the oath prescribed by the Con-

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western- Shore pay Peter Littig £50, common money, on account of his contract for making Muskets. to

Adjourned

also the

till

next day, ten o'clock. Saturday, June

vention.

Ordered, That Letters be immediately sent to the several absent Members, respectively, requiring their attendance in Council which was done accordingly.

Met according

Charles Carroll, Esq., was appointed VicePresident of the Council.

Ordered, That Mr. Plater be requested immediately to have a Chart of Smith's Creek, in St. Mary's County, made, with the soundings into the River, and the altitude of the banks on each side of said Creek.

Adjourned

till

three o'clock

;

use of the Province.

of Letter No. 8 was sent to the Deputies of MaCongress. copy of No. 9 to the Committee of Observation (or

Copy

according to adjournment.

29, 1776.

Present the same

Mem-

on yesterday, except Mr. Carroll and Mr. Plater.

Richard Ridgely was appointed Assistant Clerk to the Council, and qualified before Mr. Jenifer, by taking the oath

A

in

Baltimore County.

Adjourned

till

Monday,

ten o'clock.

till

next day, ten o'clock. Thursday,

Met

according to adjournment.

May

The Hon. JVilliam Haywood, Esquire, a Member of the Council, attended, and was qualified befor^ Mr. Hall, by taking the oath prescribed by the Convention.

Hooper and Chamberlaine, Colonels Weems, respectively John Allen Thomas.

son,

of Letter No.

2 was

Present the same

Mem-

James Nicholof the Ship Defence, and a copy of No. 3 to Captain

Duncan

to

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Captain Duncan Hill £ 1 5 currency, to defray the expenses of the carriage of Flour from the Cherry-Stones across Northampton County, in Virginia, for a vessel going to the West-Indies on account of the Province. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to the Clerk £20, to pay expresses, and for other purposes, and that an account be rendered of the expenses of the same. next day, ten o'clock. Friday,

May

31, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment. Present the same Members as on yesterday, and also Thomas Smyth, Esq., who

was qualified before Mr. Hall, by taking the oath prescribed by the Convention.

Copy of Letter No. 4 was sent to Mr. Htigh Young, of Baltimore Town copy of No. 5 to the Committee of Observation for Baltimore County copy of No. 6 to the honourable Committee of Safety for the Colony of Virginia; ;

;

and

Captains Rezin Beall and

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Mr. John Gassaway £200, common money, for the use of Lieutenant-Colonel Francis Ware, to be answered for.

Adjourned

till

next day, ten o'clock. Tuesday, June

Met

according to adjournment. bers as on yesterday.

4,

1776.

Present the same Alem-

Mr. Hall and Mr. Tilghman attended.

to

till

also,

sent to Captain

Hill.

Adjourned

;

to Brigadier-Generals

Maclcall, Barnes,

to

30, 1776.

bers as on yesterday.

Copy

1776.

to

Copies of Letter No. 10 were sent

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Captain Thomas Ewing £150, common money, on account of his Company. to

3,

adjournment. Present the same Members as on yesterday, except Mr. Hall and Mv.Tilghman.

Met according

directed by the Convention.

Adjourned

Mem-

in the hands of the Committee of Observation for KerU County, for the purpose of defraying the expense of the car riage of Gunpowder from Indian River to Chestertown. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Thomas Smyth, Esq., £42 \0s., for ten Muskets purchased by him for the

Monday, June

Met

1776.

next day, ten o'clock. Wednesday, May

bers as

1,

Present the same

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Thomas Smyth, Esq., £60, common money, to be lodged

ryland

Mr. Richard Barnes was appointed in the room of Mr. Plater to join with Brigadier-General Dent in erecting Beacons on the River Poiomack. till

to

and met accordingly.

Mr. Plater has leave of absence.

Adjourned

adjournment.

bers as on yesterday.

;

The Hon.

to

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Eastern-Shore pay Mr. Robert Lloyd Nicholls, Paymaster of the Regular Troops for the Eastern-Shore Department, £2.000, common money. to

Copy of

Letter No.

1 1

was sent

to ffllliam

Hindman,

Esq., Treasurer of the Eastern- Shore.

The Council contracted with Mr. Sumnel Galloicay and Stephen Steivart for the building of five Gondolas for the defence of this Province, and agree to pay Mr. Stcicarr's expenses to Philadelphia, for the purpose of viewing those constructed there they also contracted with Thomas Smyth, Esq., for building two Gondolas, upon terms and conditions hereafter to be agreed on. ;

Permit granted to Mr. Hodges's Boat

to take in

and

transport live Stock and fresh Provisions from Roclchall to

such Man-of-War as shall come up Governor Eden, for his intended voyage to England. Annapolis, and

to

for

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY,

1467

Ordered, That the Treasurer of tlie Western- Shore pay GnUoivay and Stewart £500, common money, account of the Gondolas by them to be built.

10 Rlessrs. (jn

Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Thomas Smyth, £200, common money, on account of the Gondolas to be built by him. Esq.,

Mr. Smyth has leave of absence

for a

few days.

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay to Mr. John Muir, to be lodged in the hands of Charles Wallace, Esq., Paymaster, £2,500, common money.

Copy of Letter No. 12 was sent to Captain Rezin and copy of No. 13 to the Committee of Ooservation Calvert County.

Bcall, for

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay John and JValter Hanson (the youngest) £500, common money, to enable them to erect a Powder-Mill, agreeable to the Resolutions of the late Convention. to Messrs.

Adjourned

till

next day, ten o'clock.

5,

Present the same according to adjournment. bers as on yesterday, except Mr. Smith.

Met

Mem-

14 was sent

to the

Ensign. William Richardson Captain, John McCahe First LieuGeorge Sevil Douglass Second Lieutenant, Fergus Mclhoy Ensign. Frederick Deans Captain, Absalom Price First Lieutetenant,

George Campbell Second Lieutenant, John Demmitt Ensign. Ordered, That the above Companies, together with Captain Zachariah Maccubbin's, James Cox's, and Thomas Butter's Companies, constitute the Baltimore Town Batnant,

Ordered, That the Committee of Observation JMiddle District of Frederick County, send to the tee of Observation lies to

tifications there.

No

Committee of Ob-

servation for Baltimore County.

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Mr. William Whetcroft £500, common money, on account of his contract to erect a Slitting-Mill. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Mr. James Dorset £400, like money, to enable him to erect a Paper-

to

Commissions issued

Charles nant,

First Lieute-

Thomas Phillips Captain, Joshua Dorsey First LieuteJohn Chapman Second Lieutenant, Bichard Shipley

Nathaniel Stinchccomb Captain, Joseph Gist First LieuJohn W. Dorsey Second Lieutenant, Joshua Owens (of John) Ensign.

tenant, 6,

Present the same

1776.

Mem-

bers as on yesterday.

Christopher

Owens Captain, Samuel Merryman,

First Lieutenant, JVilliam Chinaiuorth

of Letter No. 15 was sent to the Committee of Middle District of Frederick County.

Ob-

tenant,

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay to Cumberland Dugan, of Baltimore Town, £150, common money, for demurrage and detention of Schooner No. 92. Ordered, That the Schooner No. 92 be unloaded as soon as can be done with convenience, under the care and direction of Mr. Cumberland Dugan. And further Ordered, That the same be lodged in bis Warehouse, and that he cause such of the Flour as may be in danger of being spoiled to be baked into Bread for the

(of

use of the publick.

Junior,

Second Lieutenant.

Mordecai Hammond Captam, Arjuila Hooker First LieuRichard Davis Second Lieutenant, Edward Parish

servation for the

Edward) Ensign. Ordered, That the above eight Companies constitute the Soldiers' Delight Battalion, in Baltimore County. Adjourned

till

next day, ten o'clock. Friday, June 7, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment. bers as on yesterday.

Present the same

Mem-

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Captain James Nicholson, of the Ship Defence, £714, common money, on account of the forces under his comto

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Francis Smyth £43 10s., common money, for Leather Breeches for the Troops. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Captain John Fulford £9 5s., for Leather Breeches. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to John Omensetter, of Baltimore Town, £225, on account of his contract to

Cartouch-boxes. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Captain John Day Scott, for the use of Captain John Gunby, £30 'is.,

for

common money. Copy of Letter No. 16 was

sent to Lieutenant William

Harrison.

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Eastern- Shore pay to Dr. Johi Hindman £46 9*. 3c/., for attending Captain

mand. Ordered, That the Treasurer aforesaid pay to Mr. BoPurviance £1,000, common money, on account of the Schooner Resolution. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Mr. Robert Purviance, for the use of Mr. George Woolsey, £39 Os. Id., being the balance due Mr. Woolsey for the cargo of the Brig Rogers. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to the Committee of Observation for Charles County, £200, common money, on account of Captain Rczin Beall's Company. bert

Commissions issued to Richard Frisby appointed First Lieutenant, and James Frisby appointed Second Lieutenant, of Captain JVilliam Frisby's Company of Militia in

Kent County.

Hindman's Company. Council of Safety agreed with Dr. John Hindman, of Talbot County, to pay him at the rate of £100 per annum, for providing Medicine for, and attending, Captain James Hindman s Independent Company of Regular Troops.

The

Commissions issued

Carman Captain, William Hudson

Richard Marsh Second Lieutenant, Thomas Doyle

Ensign.

next day, ten o'clock. Thursday, June

Copy

:

John Cockey Owens Captain, Bichard Colegate First Lieutenant, Joshua Cockey (of Edward) Ensign. Alexander Wells Captain, Thomas Owens First Lieutenant, Richard Sutherland Second Lieutenant. Richard Owens (of Samuel) Captain, Joshua Porter First Lieutenant, Benjamin Lawrence Second Lieutenant, James Barnes Ensign.

nant,

according to adjournment.

to the following persons, appointed

Officers of the Militia in Baltimore County, to wit

Ensign.

Met

for the

Commit-

of said County which

the westward oi Licking Creek, two barrels of Musket

Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Captain Peter Adams £13 4.s. 5c/., the amount of his account filed. till

for that District

Gunpowder.

Mill.

Adjourned

1468

John Smith Captain, Bobert Alexander First Lieutenant, George Woolscy Second Lieutenant. William Galbraith Captain, James Toole First Lieutenant, John Deaver Second Lieutenant. Joseph Gutho Ensign. Artillery Company: George Wells Captain, James Morgan First Lieutenant, John Dayman Second Lieutenant, James Foster Ensign. Henry >S'Aeff/ Captain, Britlingham Diclcijtson First Lieutenant, Robert Moore Second Lieutenant, Caleb Shields

1776.

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay to Mr. Christopher Johnson £2,000, common money, to be placed in the hands of the Committee of Observation for Baltimore County, and by them expended in erecting Forof Letter

1776.

talion.

Wednesday, June

Copy

JUNE,

to the following persons,

Officers of the Militia in Baltimore

County,

appointed

to wit

to

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore j)ay Mr. James West £18 18s., for nine and a half reams of

Paper.

Copy Province

of Letter No. 17 was sent to the Deputies of in Congress.

Adjourned

till

next day, ten o'clock.

tliis

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY,

1469

Saturday, Juno 8, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment.

bers as on yesterday, except

Mem-

Present the same

Mr. Hall.

Ordered, That the Treasurer of tlie Western- Shore pay William Lux £ 1 ,000, common money, to be lodged with the Committee of Observation for Baltimore County, and by them appHed towards discharging the pay of the Militia on the late alarm, and for other purposes, to be acounted for. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Charles Wallace, Esq., Paymaster, £1,000, common money. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Messrs. Charles Wallace and Willinm, Lux £500, common money, to enable to

them

on a Salt-Work. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay don £5, for stocking eight Muskets. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay thaniel Smith £100, to be accounted for.

Whid-

taken by the Clerk to the Council of Safety, except instead of the words " as Clerk to the Council of Safety," inserting

"as Accountant

to the

Board of Accounts."

Commissions issued

to the followini; persons, appointed Officers of the Militia in the IMiddle District of Frederick County, and added to the Thirty-Fourth Battalion there, viz:

James Mackall CapVd'm, Ralph Briscoe First Lieutenant, Benjamin 'lliomas Second Lieutenant, Leonard Tunley Ensign.

George Poe Captain, Benjamin Eastbum First LieuteSecond Lieutenant, Theobald Williake

nant, Elias Williake

Thomas Frazier Captain, Basil BeaU

Na-

Resolved, That Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, set apart for auditing and paying off Accounts against the Publick. All persons, therefore, who have just claims are to attend the Council of Safety on those days, and no other, and are requested to bring their Accounts, proved or authenticated by proper vouchers.

Ordered, That a copy of the above Resolution be inserted

Thomas Mayo £15, common money,

to

Maryland Gazette.

ver

Dent £17 13s. Pounds of which Canada expedition.

8d., the for

Monday, June

10,

when

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Dent £50, common money, to be applied towards erecting Beacons on the River Potomack. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Brigadier-Gefour

Present the same

providing Sub-

to Brigadier-General

neral

morning, ten o'clock.

according to adjournment. bers as on Saturday.

for

Ordered, That the Commissary of Stores deliver to OliWhiddon fourteen large Musket Gun-locks.

Monday

Met

Ensign.

on duty in March last. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Captain Wells £15, common money, for ten reams of Paper.

Mr. Tilghman has leave of absence. till

Ric/irer

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay sistence for a part of the Severn Battalion of Militia

be

Adjourned

First Lieutenant,

John Frashcr Second Lieutenant, Conrad

was allowed. Ordered, That the Paymaster discharge the same.

the

1470

Ensign.

Captain

to

Captain Stone produced an Account of £129 Os. 9d., for the pay of his Company to the 3d day of this instant, which

in

1776.

Mr. John Muir, appointed Accountant to the Board of Accounts, appeared before the Council, and qualified himself as such, by taking the oath directed by the Convention to be

to carry

to Oliver

JUNE,

Adjourned

1776.

till

amount of

expenses

his

Account filed, Gold for the

in collecting

next day, ten o'clock.

MemWednesday, June

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay to Mr. Thomas Ringgold, for the use of Elisha Jf 'inters, of Chestertown, in Kent County, £855, common money, to enable said If'inters to comply with his contract for manufacturing Fire-Arms. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Alexander McFaddon, of Georgetoivn, in Frederick County, £300, current money, to enable him to carry on a Linen Manufactory. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to the Clerk £30, to pay Elxpresses, and for other purposes.

Met according

12,

adjournment. Present the same bers as on yesterday, except Mr. Tilghman. ]\lr. to

1776.

MemHand

attended.

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western- Shore pay Colonel Joseph Sim £47 8.9. 4d., on account of the Prisoners from North- Carolina; also £ 1 7s. 6d., for iMr. David Crawford, on the same account. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Captain Nato

thaniel Ramsey

£181

Is.

lOd., on account of his

Company.

Resolved, That a Convention of the Delegates of Alaryland be held at the City of Annajiolis, on Thursday, the 20th of this instant.

Ordered, That the Commissary of Stores deliver out of die Magazine at Baltimore Town nine half-barrels of Gunpowder, the property of John Smith &/ Sons, imported ia Captain Tibbet, and lodged there, to them or their order.

Copies of Letter No. 18 were sent to the Delegates in Convention for each County, respectively; copies of No. 19

to

to the several Brigadiers-General, respectively;

20

Deputies of

copy of No.

Province in Congress and copy of No. 21 to the Honourable John Hancock, Esquire, President of Congress. to the

this

;

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Zadok Magruder £37 9s. lOd., for expenses incurred in guarding the Prisoners sent from North- Carolina, from Georgetown to Fredericktown. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Colonel Zadok Magruder £l8, common money, for three months' pay of the Adjutant to his Battalion of Militia, to the 6ih instant. to Colonel

Ordered, That the following Notice be given land Gazette, to wit "All persons

who

in the

Mary-

are willing to undertake the erecting

and carrying on Salt- Works, agreeable to a Resolve of last Convention, are required to attend the Council of Safety, and give in their proposals, which will be duly attended to.

"By

order:

G. Duvall, Clerk."

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Captain Peter Adams £16 4s. 6d., on account of his

Company. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Mr. Robert Cummins, Contractor for Provisions of the Regular Troops of this Province, £2,000, common money. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Major Thomas Williams £ 18, common money, for the use of William Thomas, for his services as Adjutant three months to the TwentyFifth Battalion, to the 5th instant.

Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to George Gordon £20, common money, for Gun-carriages. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Maior Thomas Price £122 9s. 9d., for Clothing, Sic, for the Troops. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Major Price £250 for the purchase of Rifles. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Dr. 3Iichacl Wallace £ 18 4s. 6d., for Medicine and Pay, as per account filed. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Captain John Hoskins Stone £71 3s. 4^?., die amount of his account filed.

The Proceedings of the Committee of Observation for Caroline County against Cornelius Hogans, together with the said Cornelius Hogans in custody, were transmitted to .

Adjourned

till

next day, ten o'clock. Tuesday, June 11, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment. bers as on yesterday.

Present the same

Mem-

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Captain William Waters £10, common money, for transporting Military Stores from Annapolis to Baltimore Town, and from thence to the Eastern- Shore. to

Board which being read, it was Thereupon Ordered, That he be committed to the custody of a Guard, to be appointed by Colonel Smallwood, this

;

until the further order

of the Council.

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay to Lieutenant Benjamin Ford 23s. Id. for expenses incurred ill guarding Powder to Bladensburgh,

MARYLAND COUNCIL OF SAFETY,

1471

Ordered, That the said Treasurer of the Western-Shore to the Committee of Observation for the Middle District of Frederick County, £100, common money, on account of the Prisoners from North-Carolina.

pay

Adjourned

till

Thursday, June 13, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment. bere as on yesterday.

Present the same

Mem-

nizing as follows

Hogans and William Richardson, do acknowledge yourselves to stand indebted to the Honourable Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, Esq., President of the Council of Safety of Maryland, in the sum of one hundred pounds steriing each, to be levied of your goods and chattels, lands and tenements, in case the said Cornelius Hogans shall not conform to the rules and regulations of the Conventions of this Province, and conduct himself in all things agreeable thereto, for twelve months henceforward." " You, Cornelius

severally

The

said Cornelius

Hogans and William Richardson to

ac-

be content.

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay William Richardson £12, common money, for the use of Henry Downs, Jun., for his services two months, ending 10th instant, as Adjutant to Colonel Richardson's to Colonel

Commissions issued to Vachel Gaither, appointed CapAbsalom Anderson First Lieutenant, Stephen Basford Second Lieutenant, and Thomas Foivler Basford Ensign,

Company of Militia, belonging to the Severn Battalion, Anne Arundel County. Copy of Letter No. 25 was sent to Captain Isaac Van-

of a

bibber.

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Eastern-Shore pay Captain James Hindman £149 17s., currency, for subsisting his Company to 30th of May. Ordered, That the Commissary of Stores deliver to WilHaywood, Esq., for Captain James Hindman's Company, fifteen Rifles, with Powder-horns and Pouches, eleven Muskets, and Thread sufficient to make one hundred suits liam

of Clothes.

Adjourned

till

next day, ten o'clock. Tuesday, June 18, 1776.

Met according

to adjournment.

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Nathaniel Ewing £6 4s. for expenses incurred in guarding a sick prisoner sent from the Colony of NorthCarolina, from the City of Annapolis to Pennsylvania. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to said Nathaniel Ewing 39s. for Thread for the use of the Troops. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Captain Barton Lucas £27 18s. 9d., on account of his Company.

Copy

of Letter No.

of Baltimore County.

Resolution.

to Oliver

Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Mr. William Lux £500, like money, on account of the said Schooner.

ments.

till

next day, ten o'clock. Friday, June 14, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment. bers as on yesterday.

Present the same

Yost and Unseld as

Congress.

Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to George Plater, £37 17s. 2^d., on account of Captain John Allen Thomas's Company. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Captain George Strieker £27 7s. 3d., the amount of his account filed.

Adjourned

till

next day, ten o'clock. Wednesday, June

Met

according to adjournment. bers as on yesterday.

19, 1776.

Present the same

Mem-

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay James Royston £2 4s. Sd., as per account. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to James Hutchings, of Queen Anne's County, £29, for the difference of value of his Vessel, occasioned by the sinking of the said Vessel in the channel of the River Patapsco, for the preser-

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay William Hannah, of Queen Anne's County, £250, common money, to enable him to carry on a Salt-Work, agreeable to a Resolution of the late Convention.

vation of Baltimore

to

till

Dugan,

to

unfit for service.

Copy of Letter No. 23 was sent to Mr. Jesse Hollingsworth, and copy of No. 24 to the Deputies of Maryland in

Adjourned

sent to Cumberland

Esquire,

Ordered, That the Commissary of Stores deliver out of

ordered by the late Convention to be returned to the said

26 was

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Widdon £4 3s. 6d., for a Musket and Accoutre-

Mem-

the Magazine, at Annapolis, to Henry Yost and John Unseld, all the Muskets by them respectively made which were

Mem-

to Lieutenant

Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Mr. Robert Purviance £600, common money, on account of the Schooner

Copy of Letter No. 22 was sent to Robert Alexander, Esq.

Present the same

bers as on yesterday.

Battalion of Militia.

Adjourned

1472

to

Cornelius Hogans being ordered to be brought under guard before this Board, was brought accordingly. It was Ordered, That he be discharged upon his recog-

knowledged themselves

1776.

tain,

in

next day, ten o'clock.

JUNE,

Town.

Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Mr. William

Luv £100,

currency, for the freight of

Powder

I'rom St.

Eustatia.

next day, ten o'clock.

Copy

of Letter No. 27 was sent to the Committee of Ob-

servation for Worcester County. Saturday, June 15, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment.

Present the same

Mem-

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay to Mrs. ^n?ie Johnson

£12

17s. 3d., for providing Subsist-

ence for Captain MulUkin's Company of Militia on the late alarm by the Otter sloop of war. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Major Gist

£318

Qs. 5d., the

amount of

his account.

Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay

£15

2s. Id., the

Adjourned

till

amount of

Monday,

to

Mlliam Niven

his account.

ten o'clock.

Monday, June

Met

according to adjournment. bers as on Saturday.

17, 1776.

Present the same

Mem-

Ordered, That the Commissary of Stores deliver to Lieutenant John Waters, for Captain John Gunby's Company, twenty-five Muskets and fifteen Rifles, with Powder-horns and Pouches. to

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay Captain John Day Scott £94 4«. 5rf., on account of his

Company.

Ordered, That the Treasurer of the Western-Shore pay John Gordon, of Baltimore Town, £124 Is., common money, being the balance of his account for Cartouch-boxes, to

bers as on yesterday.

Bayonet-belts, and Gun-slings.

Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Erasmus Uhler, Town, £59 10s., the balance of his account for Cartouch-boxes, Bayonet-belts, and Gun-slings. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Colonel George Plater £8 4s. Qd., for expenses incurred in erecting Beacons on the River Potomack. Ordered, That the said Treasurer pay to Messrs. John Shaw and Archibald Chisholm £29 7s. 8d., for stocking Muskets, and for other services, as per account.

of Baltimore

Copy of Letter No. 28, was sent to Dr. of Calvert County.

Edward Johnson,

Information being lodged with the Council that a certain

Alexander McGee, of Baltimore County, now in custody in /?fl/tect the people thereof in the secure enjoyment of all their rights, franchises, and privileges and will constantly endeavour that the laws and ordinances of the Commonwealth be duly observed, and that law and justice, in mercy, be executed in all judgments; and lastly, I do solemnly promise and swear that I will peaceably and quietly resign the Government to which I have been elected at the several periods to which my continuance in the said office is or shall be limited by law and the Constitution. So help me God." I,

A.

thereof,

;

prescribing the Oaths of Office to be taken

by the Governour and Privy Council of the Commonwealth having been fairly transcribed, was read a third time, and the blanks therein filled up. Resolved, That the said Ordinance do pass, and that the title thereof be, An Ordinance prescribing the Oaths of Office to be taken by the Governour and Privy Council, and other Officers of the Commonwealth of Virginia, and for other

THE OATH OF A PHIVT COUNCILLOR.

oi Virginia,

purposes therein mentioned.* of.

Be

it

ordained by the Delegates and Representatives o/Vibgisia,

in Convention assembled, and it is ordained by the authority of the same. That if any free person or persons shall, in any manner or Ijy any device,

ways, or means, aid, abet, or assist the enemy, he, she, or they, so offending, being duly convicted before the Commissioners appointed, and according to the mode prescribed by the said Ordinance, shall forfeit all his, her, or their estates, real and personal, to the use of the Commonwealth, and, moreover, be imprisoned during such time as the said Commissioners shall direct, not extending beyond the continuance of the present war with Great Britain. And whereas two of the Judges appointed to take cognizance of matters relating to vessels and their cargoes, have been appointed to other offices, and the third hath resigned: 'i'o supply their places, thereby become vacant. Be it ordained, That James Unbard, Joseph Prentis, and Jolm Tyler, Esquires, be, and they are hereby, constituted Judges to hear and determine all causes maritime arising within and belonging to the jurisdiction of the Admiralty, all olfences committed on the high seas, and all captures of vessels and their cargoes from the enamcs of America, and from the inhabitants of this ot any other of the United Colonies, made liable to seizure and confiscation by Ordinances of Convention and the Resolutions of the Continental Congress thereby adopted for which purpose, the said Judges, or any two of them, may hold a court at such place within this Colony as they may think most proper for the execution of their office, and may adjourn from time to time, and to any other place they may judge necessary, the said Judges having taken before the Governour and Privy Council, and having administered to the Advocate, Clerk, and Marshal, appointed by them, the respective oaths prescribed And the said Judges and their officers shall be in the said Ordinance. paid for their services such allowance, and in such manner, as by the said Ordinance is directed. And be it further ordained. That all trials in the said Court of -Admiralty shall be by juries of freeholders, to be empannelled by the Marshal, and sworn according to the methods of proceeding in courts of common law; for summoning which juries the said Judges, or any two of them, may issue their precept to the Marshal. And if any juror, summoned by virtue of such precept, shall fail to attend, he shall forfeit fifty shillings, to be levied by fieri facias issuing out of the said Court, unless, having been duly cited, he shall show good cause to the contrary, within ten days. And be it further ordained, That the Resolutions of the Continental Congress relative to the capture of vessels and their cargoes, made on or before the third day o{ April last, shall be in force in this Colony. And be it furtlier ordaineil by the authority aforesaid, That in all cases of captures, before any suit shall be commenced for the condemna;

tion thereof, the prosecutor shall give caution for the costs of the claim-

ant or defendant which shall be awarded in case judgment shall be entered for him. And whereas there is no provision made for the maintenance of the wives and children of those persons who may be adjudged inimical : Be it further ordained by the authority aforesaid. That out of the lands and other estate of every person who hath been or shall be condemned, under this or the former Ordinance for punishing the enemies of .Imerica, there shall he allowed, by the Commissioners appointed by the Court condemning such person as aforesaid, such part of the said estate as they shall judge reasonable to the wife and children of such person for their maintenance and subsistence. And be it further ordained. That this Ordinance shall be in force until the first

the inhabitants of Botetourt on the Western Waters, and under

;

Friday, July 5, 1776.

An Ordinance

Resolved, That the sum of £1,000 be laid out in Furniture for the Palace in this City, including the Furniture already there belonging to the country, at a reasonable ap-

"

being read.

Adjourned

1612

to.

Resohcd, That Thomas Everard and John Tazewell, Gentlemen, be added to the Committee appointed to burn

to resolve itself into a

1776.

day of December next.

*An Ordinance

prescribing the Oaths of Offce to be taken by the Governour a?id Privy Council, and other ojfflcers of the Common-wealth of ViiiaiNiA, and for other purposes therein mentioned.

Be it ordained by the Delegates or Representatives of the Counties and Corporations in Viboinia, now tnet in Convention, That the Governour, Privy Council, Members of the General Assembly, and Officers of Government, shall take the oaths hereinafter prescribed, before they

"

I,

A.

B

,

elected one of the Privy Council of Virginia

sentatives thereof, do solemnly promise

and swear that

I

by the Repre-

will, to the best

of my skill and judgment, execute the said office diligently and faithfully, according to law, without favour, affection, or partiality; that I will be faithful to the Commonwealth of Virginia, and will support and defend the same, according to the Constitution thereof, to the utmost of my

power; and that

I will keep secret such proceedings and orders of the Privy, Council as the Board shall direct to be concealed, unless when the same shall be called for by either House of Assembly. So help me God."

Which oaths shall be administered, that to the Governour by any four Privy Council, and the other hy the Governour, on or before the 6th day of this instant, July, for which purpose he is required to summon the Privy Council to attend him at IVilliamsburgh ; and until that time the powers of the Committee of Safety, according to the ordinances of Convention, shall continue, and no longer. ot the

THE OATH OF A SENATOH AND DELEGATE. A. B., do solemnly promise and swear that I will be faithful and Commonwealth of Virginia ; that I will well and truly demean myself as a Senator [or Delegate, as the case may be] of the General Assembly to which I have been elected, in all things appertaining to the duties of the same, according to the best of my skill and judgment, and without favour, afl'ection, or partiality. So help me God." "

I,

true to the

Which

oath shall be administered by any Privy Councillor.

THE OATH OF THE SECRETARY, ATTORNET-GENERAL, AND CLERK OF A COUNTY COUBT. " I, A. B., do solemnly promise and swear that true to the Commonwealth of Virginia, and that

demean myself in the the County Court of been appointed, to the best of partiality.

in all

my

I will be faithful and I will well and truly Secretary [Attorney-General, or Clerk of as the case may be] to which I have things appertaining to the duties thereof, according

oflice of

skill

So help me

,

and judgment, and without favour, God."

affection, or

Which

oaths shall be administered, those to the Secretary and Attorney-General by any four of the Privy Council, and the other by the Court of which the officer is Clerk. And every Attorney-at-Law shall, before he be permitted to practise in

any Court, take the following oath before such Court

"I, A. B., do solemnly promise and swear that Commonwealth of Virginia, and that demean myself in the office of an Attorney-at-Law. true to the

I will I

and and truly

be faithful

will well

So help me God."

And every other person heretofore required by law to take the oaths Government now taking, instead thereof, an oath before some Court of Record, that he will be faithful and true to the Commonwealth of Virginia, and that he will well and truly demean himself in his office, in all things appertaining to the duties thereof, according to the best of of

and judgment, and without favour, affection, or partiality, shall be deemed suHiciently qualified to execute his office. And all members of Committees of Inspection and Observation shall take the like oath, which any two members of such Committees, respectively, are hereby empowered to administer. And whereas doubts may arise concerning the powers of the Governour and Privy Council, to the great injury of the community in this time of war and publick danger Jle it ordained, That, superadded to the powers given to the Governour and Privy Council by the form of Government passed this Convention, the Governour, with the advice of the Privy Council, shall have and possess all the powers and authority given to the Committee of Safety by an Ordinance appointing a Committee of Safety, passed at Richmond, July, 1775, or by any resolution of Convention ; and also to direct such military movements and operations as, in their judgment, shall be necessary for the safety and security of Provided always, and be it ordained, That the the Commonwealth powers given by the said Ordinance and Resolutions, hereby transferred to the Governour and Council, and the authority herein also given to direct military movements and operations, shall continue no longer than until the 10th day after the meeting of the next Convention or General Assembly. And be it further ordained. That Thomas Everard anH James Cocke, Esquires, shall be, and they are hereby, appointed Commissioners to examine, state, and settle all publick accounts referred to them for that purpose, by the (iovernour and Privy Council; each of which Commissioners shall be allowed the sum of ten shillings per day for his services therein, until the end of the next meeting of the Convention or Geneial his skill

:

:

Assembly.

VIRGINIA CONVENTION, JULY,

1613 like

circumstances with

tlie

inhabitants of Flncastle,

who

have been permitted to vote in the election of Representatives in General Assembly, be allowed the same privileges.

A

Captains of the First and Second Regiments was presented to the Convention, and read setting forth, tliat they are apprehensive an attempt is now making to destroy their right of promotion through the Virginia line, that those of no higher rank in the new-raised Regiments may succeed to the post of Field-Officers before them, which they conceive would be highly unjust, because the commissions of the Petitioners are of a prior date to any in the Army because they have undergone the hardships of a severe campaign, and are more experienced, in genci'al, than the other Regiments, and, from their past services, better entitled because the mode under which they were apto promotion pointed was more respectable than that of the appointment of the officers of the other Regiments, inasmuch as it was more difficult, and required greater credit, to procure an appointment from a District Committee than from a Commitbecause the subalterns in the two first tee of a County Regiments were not allowed to stand candidates for commissions in the new-raised Regiments, while many who were competitors with them before District Committees are now placed over their heads, several of them as Captains; and unless the Petitionere are allowed to succeed through the line, these worthy subalterns may continue in their present stations till they see men who could not procure even an Ensigncy in competition with them not only over their heads, but over the Petitioners also, and praying the Convention will represent their case to the General Congress. Resolved, That it be recommended to the Delegates in General Congress that they use their endeavours that the several promotions of the Officers in the Continental Army raised in Virginia be made according to seniority, without regard to Regiments or Companies. Petition of

tiie

;

1776.

1614

Ordered, That leave be given

making rency

it

and that Mr. Richard Henry Lee do prepare and same.

;

bring

to bring in an Ordinance felony to counterfeit the Continental Paper Cur-

in tlie

Resolved, Tiiat

Thomas Everard,

Judge of the Court of Admiralty,

who

bard,

Esq., be appointed a

room of James Iluhath declined the said appointment. in

the

Mr. Richard Henri/ T^ee presented according to order, an Ordinance making it felony to counterfeit the Continental Paper Currency; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a

second time.

;

;

;

An Ordinance for amending an Ordinance intituled An Ordinance for raising and imbodying a sufficient force for the defence and protection of this Colony, and for other purposes therein mentioned, having been fairly transcribed, was read a third time. Resolved, That the said Ordinance do pass.*

Resolved, That Brigadier-General Lewis be requested immediately to detach an Officer with six armed soldiers to apprehend Benjamin Woodward, who appears, from information upon oatii, to be engaged in counterfeiting the Paper Currency of the Continent and of this country, and also Shem Cooke, William Daniel, James Daniel, and Joseph Cooke, who are suspected to be his accomplices. 'An. Ordinance for amending an Ordinance for raising- and imbodying a sufficii'nt force for tlie dtfcnce and protection of this Colony, and for other purposes therein mentioned.

Whereas, by an Ordinance intituled " An OrJinance for raising and imbodying a sufficient force for the protection and defence of this Colony," all Overseers of four tithables residing on a plantation, and all Millers, are exempted from being inlisted into the Militia of their respective Counties, which said exemption of Overseers and of Millers residing in the Counties ui Accomack and A'orthampton, oa the Eastern-Shore, hath been found inconvenient and unnecessary Jie it therefore ordained by tlie Delegates and Representatives of the several Counties and Corporations o/" Virginia, i'ra General Convention assembled, and it is hereby ordained by the authority of the same, 'J'hat all Overseers, and all i^nakers ani JMenonists, in Virginia, and all Millers residing in the Counties oi Accomack and J\'orlhampton, shall be inlisted into the Militia by the Commanders-in-Chief of the respective Counties, and be subject to the same rules and regulations, and liable to the same pains, penalties, and forfeitures, as the rest of the Militia and the said Overseers, Quakers and Jlenouists, shall be immediately :

;

allotted to the several divisions of Militia in their respective Counties, in

manner prescribed by a former Ordinance respecting the division of the Militia in th s Colony, except in the i ounties of Accomack and ; but the said Quakers and Menonists shall not be obliged to attend general or private musters. the

JVorthampton

And be it further ordained. That where it shall be necessary to call on duty the Militia of any Colony, upon an invasion or insurrection within the same, or any County adjoining, the commanding officer shall have full power and authority to order into service such part of the Militia of his said County as to him shall seem necessary, and shall also call in the divisions, or any part thereof, according to allotment; and the Militia first called on duty shall be discharged as soon as the divisions called in shall be ready to perform the service required of such division. And soldier of the Militia shall fail to appear at musters through

where any

commanding officer of such Company premay hear any evidence offered on behalf of such person

sickness, the Captain or other

sent shall and

failing to attend,

and admit the excuse,

if to

him

it

shall

seem

just,

and

hereby empowered to administer an oath to any witprove such sickness. hath heretofore been completed, and hath been reduced by inlislments into regular service, if the Captain hath for that

purpose

is

who shall appear before him to And where any Minute Company

ness

The Convention

proceeded to the consideration of the Claims reported from the Committee of Publick Claims on Tuesday last, and ordered to lie on the table; and the same was again read, and several other Claims added thereto. state of

Resolved, That the said Claims are reasonable; and that the respective Claimants be allowed by the publick for the

same.

An nental

ed to

Ordinance making it felony to counterfeit the ContiPaper Currency was read a second time, and orderbe fairly transcribed, and read a third time.

Resolved, That the following sentences in the Morning and Evening Service shall be omitted: "O Lord save the King. And mercifully hear us when we call upon thee." That the 15th, 16th, 17th, and 18th sentences in the Litany, for the King's Majesty and the Royal Family, k.c., !

shall be omitted.

That the two Prayers for the King's Majesty and the Royal Family, in the Morning and Evening Service, shall be omitted.

That the Prayers in the Communion Service which acknowledge the authority of the King, and so much of the Prayer for the Church militant as declares the same authority, shall be omitted, and this alteration made in one of the above Prayers in the Communion Service ''Alinighty and Everlasting God, we are taught by thy Holy Word that the hearts of all rulers are in thy governance, and that thou dost dispose and turn them as it seemeth best to thy godly wisdom, we humbly beseech thee so to dispose and govern the :

hearts of all their

all

the magistrates of this

Commonwealth,

thoughts, words, and works, they

that in

may evermore

seek thy honour and glory, and sttidy to preserve thy people committed to their charge, in wealth, peace, and godliness. Grant this,

O

merciful Father, for thy dear Son's sake, Jesus Christ,

Amen."

our Lord.

That

the following Prayer shall be used, instead of the

thirty-two men remaining in his Company, he shall go into the training duty, and receive pay in the same manner as if his said Company was actually complete; and where any Minute Company hath not been raised pursuant to the directions of a former Ordinance of Convention, and shall not be raised within two months from the passing of this Ordinance, tlie

men

inlisted shall return into, serve in the Mihtia,

and be

allotted, as is

directed in the case of Overseers.

And

whereas, by the said Ordinance, it is further ordered, that there shall be a private muster of the several Companies of each County once a fortnight, which, from experience, is found burdensome: He it therefore further ordained by the authority aforesaid. That there shall be a private muster of the several Companies in each County or Corporation once in four weeks, and no oftener. And forasmuch as the Minute Company in the City of TnUiamsbiirgh, by the frequent inlistments of the privates into the Regular service, is reduced to so small a number that the same cannot be again completed : Be it therefore ordained by the authority aforesaid, That the remaining Minute-men in the said City shall be discharged, and from that service return to be inlisted with the .Militia thereof. And whereas, by the said recited Ordinance, the Court of Hustings, in the City of ll'illiamsburgh, is to have jurisdiction and to adjudge all penalties to be inflicted under the same on the Militia officers and soldiers in the said city, either for neglect of duty or misbehaviour, and it is represented to this Convention that it is difficult and inconvenient to hold such Courts For remedy whereof. Be it therefore ordained. That CourtsMartial for punishing delinquents of tlie Militia in the said city shall be held by the Field-Officers and Captains therein, and not by the Court of Hustings. And forasmuch as the mode of drafting the Militia, and arranging them into divisions, as the said recited Ordinance requires, hath been found inconvenient in the Counties of Accomack and ,\'orthamplon. Be it therefore ordained. That drafts of the Militia of the said Counties of .Iccomack and A'orthamplon, when necessary, shall be made in the manner directed by the last act of General Assembly for making provision against invasions and insurrections. :

And be it further ordained. That so much of the recited Ordinance, much of the Ordinance intituled "An Ordinance ior raising an additional number of forces for the defence and protection of the Colony of Virginia, and for other purposes therein mentioned,*' as comes within the purview of this Ordinance, shall be, and the same is hereby, repealed. together with so

N^W-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1615 Prayer service

King's Majesty, in the Morning and Evening Lord, our Heavenly Fatiier, high and mighty

for the

"

:

O

King of Kings, Lord of Lords, \etse,

who

earth,

most heartily

the only Ruler of the Uni-

dost from thy throne behold

we

all

the d\vellei-s upon

;

1616

Committee had accordingly prepared the following device thereof; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the Clerk's table, where the same was again twice read, and agreed to.

beseech thee with thy favour to be-

hold the Magistrates of this Comnioiiweahh, and so replenish them with the grace of thy Holy Spirit, that they may always incline to thy will, and walk in thy way; endue them plenteously with heavenly gifts strengthen them, that they may vanquish and overcome all their enemies, and finally, after this life, they may obtain everlasting joy and felicity, Amen." through Jesus Christ our Lord.

1776.

TO BE ENGRAVED ON THE GREAT SEAL. Virtus, the genius of the Commonwealth, dressed like an Amazon, resting on a spear with one hand, and holding a sword in the other, and treading on Tyranny, represented by a man prostrate, a crown fallen from his head, a broken chain in his left hand, and a scourge in his right. In the exergon, the word Virginia over the head of Virtus and underneath the words Sic semper tyrannis. ;

In the 20th sentence of the Litany use these words " That it may please thee to endue the Magistrates of this Commonwealth with grace, wisdom, and understanding." " That it may In the succeeding one use these words :

please thee to bless and keep them, giving them grace to execute justice, and to maintain truth."

Let every other sentence of the Litany be retained, without any alteration, except the above sentences recited. Resolved, That the Plan of Government for this country, and the Ordinance to arrange the Counties in Districts for electing Senators, and to ascertain their wages, be published in the respective Parish Churches and Meeting-Houses, for two Sundays successively, immediately after divine service.

An

Ordinance making

it

felony to counterfeit the Conti-

nental Paper Currency, having been fairly transcribed,

was

read a third time. Resolved, That the said Ordinance do pass; and that the title thereof be. An Ordinance making it felony to counterfeit

Paper Currency, and

the Continental

for other

purposes

therein mentioned.*

On

the reverse, a groupe.

Ltbertas, with her wand and pileus. On one side of her, Ceres, with the cornucopia in one hand, and an ear of wheat in the other. On the other side jEternitas, with the globe and phcenix. In the exergon, these words:

Deus

nobis

hac

otia fecit.

Resolved, That George Wythe and John Page, Esquires, be desired to superintend the engraving the said Seal, and to take care that the

same be properly executed.

Adjourned till the first Monday in October next, then to meet in the City of JVilliamsburgh ; but, in case of necessity, at such other place as the Governour, with the advice of the Privy Council, shall appoint. *.4« Ordinance making Cnrrenct/,

Felony

it

and Jor

to Counterfeit the Continental other purposes therein mentioned.

Be it ordained by the Delegates of the several Comities and Corporations in this Colony, assembled in Convention, That if any person shall counterfeit, aid or abet in counterfeiting, the Continental Bills of Creilit in this Colony, or the paper money of any of the United Colonies, making base

or shall counterfeit, aid or abet in counterfeiting, or

Mr. George Mason, from the Committee appointed to devise a proper Seal for this Commonwealth, reported, that the

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS. Names of the Deputies. Bergen. John Demarest, Jacobus Post, John Van Bos-

— Abraham Lewis Ogden, Essex. — Stephen Caleb Camp, Robert Drummond. Jacob Drake, Cook, William Morris. — WoodhuU, Jacob Green. Sussex. — Ephraim Martin, Caspar Shaver, Thomas Tan Campen, John Symmes. Somerset. — Frederick Frelinghuysen, William John Jacob R. Hardenbcrgh, James Linn. John Jonathan Middlesex. —Moses John Dunn, John Combs. D. Monmouth. —Edward John Covcnhovcn, Joseph Holmes, James Mott, Josiah Holmes. Hunterdon. —Philemon Dickenson, John Samuel Tinker, John Hart, John Burlington. — Peter Tallman, Thomas Reynolds, Thomas Fennimore, Read, Gloucester.—John Sparks, John Joseph Hugg, Joseph John Holme, Joseph Shinn, Salem. —Andrew Whitten Samuel Dick. — Cumberland. Theophilus Elmer, Jonathan Aycrs, John Buck, Ephraim Harris, Jonathan Bowen. Cape-JMay. — Hughs, Hand, Thomas Learnkirk, Jacob Qiiackenbush, Daniel Isaac Broivn.

Clark,

Crane,

Silas Condict,

Ellis

Potts,

Isaac

Clcves

Paterson,

Witherspoon,

Wetherill,

Bloomfield,

Sergeant,

Taylor,

Paper

who

shall pass

any such

in

payment, knowing the same

coin, or

to be counterfeit

or base, every such person shall, on legal conviction, suffer death, without benefit of clergy.

Met

according to adjournment, and proceeded to the elecand Secretary, when Samuel Tucker, Esq., was, by a plurality of votes, chosen President, (the votes being taken by ballot,) and William Paterson, Esq., was unanimously chosen Secretary. tion of a President

The Rev. Doctor Witherspoon opened

the Congress with

Prayer.

Upon

motion. Resolved, unanimotisly.

That

the Doors of

the Congress be kept shut, and the Debates and Proceedings

be kept secret, except

in those cases

wherein the Congress

order otherwise.

The President laid before the Congress a Letter from the Honourable John Hancock, Esq., President of the Continental Congress, togedier with a number of Resolutions, which are as follow

"In Congress, June

1,

1776.

Allen,

Mchehii.

Charles

Caleb Shreve.

Cooper, Elijah Clark,

Ellis.

Sinnickson,

Crips,

Elijah

Jesse

ing, Jun., Joseph Savage,

Hugh

day

at

Burlington, a number of the

Members met

accordingly; but not being a sufficient number to proceed upon business, adjourned

till

Army

" Resolved,

That

number of Members not being yet come

tions

number

to

attending, the Certificates of their elec-

were produced and read.

Adjourned

to six o'clock, afternoon.

INlilitia,

CoH;icc//t'H/, of their Militia,

-

Aeu'-ijfflm|?sAire, of their Militia,

A'ew-ForA:, of their Militia,

" June 3, 1776. ered to employ

in

-

— —two 750 —one 750 —one

3,000 1,500

four Battalions.

do.

do. do.

Resolved, That the General be empowCanada a number of Indiaits, not exceed-

eight hundred jMilitia be employed to reinforce the Army at New- York. To complete which number, " Resolved, That the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay be

requested to furnish of their Militia,

i\''cw-Jer«cj/,

Town, adjourned to three o'clock, afternoon. The Members present met according to adjournment, and a sufficient

the

requested to supply of their

New- York, sufficient

to keep up the communiAnd, to make up that number, Colony of Massachusetts-Bay be

Canada, and

cation with that Province.

Connecticut, of their Militia,

to-morrow morning, ten o'clock. Tuesday, June 11, 10 o'clock A. M.

A

in

thousand Militia be employed to re-

ing

The Provincial Congress o[ New- Jersey being appointed to this

inforce the

six

two thousand. " That thirteen thousand

Hathorn.

Burlington, Monday, June 10, 1776.

meet

"Resolved, That

of their Militia, of their Militia,

-

-

-

-

---------------

2,000 5,500 3,000 3,300

" Resolved, As the opinion of this Congress, that the eleven Battalions raised and ordered to be raised for the protection of the JScw-England Colonies are sufficient. " Resolved,

That

a

Flying-Camp be immediately

blished in the Middle Colonies, and that

thousand men.

To make

it

up which number,

esta-

consist of ten

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1617

" Resolved, That the Colony oi Pennsylvania be requested - 6,000 to furnish, of their Militia, Maryland, of their Militia, 3,400 Delaivare Government, of theirs, COO "That the Militias be engaged to the 1st day o( December next, unless sooner discharged by Congress. " That the pay of the Militias commence from the day of their marcliing from home and that they be allowed one penny a mile, lawful money, in lieu of rations, for travelling expenses, and one day's pay for every twenty miles between home and the general rendezvous, going and returning. " That two Provincial Brigadiers-General be employed in the Canada Department one from Massachusetts-Bay and one from Connecticut. " That four Provincial Brigadiers-General be employed in ihe JS'etv-York Department one from Massachusetts-Bay, one from Connecticut, one from JSeiv-YorJc, and one from Mew-Jersey. " That three Provincial Brigadiers-General be employed for the Flying-Camp two from Pennsylvania and one from Maryland. " That the said Brigadiers-General be appointed by the ;







respective Colonies above-mentioned.

" Resolved, That

it

be earnestly recommended to the As-

semblies, Conventions, and Committees of Safety, in the

United Colonies, to fall upon the most effectual means for removing the Stocks, 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 the General Assembly of the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay, the Governour and Assembly of Connecticut, the Conventions of Neiv-Yorlc, and New-Jersey, and the Conventions of such other of the United Colonies in which there are any Lead Mines, be requested to transmit to Congress, with all convenient despatch, 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. " Extract from the ]\Iinutes " Chaeles Thomson, Secretary."

"June 4, 1776. Resolved, That it be recommended to the Assemblies and Conventions of the Colonies requested to supply or furnish Militias

by the Resolutions of yesterday, to take particular care that their Militias come provided with Arms, Accoutrements and Camp-kettles. " By order of Congress :

"John Hancock,

President."

A

Letter was also laid before the Congress from his Excellency General Washington, earnestly recommending that the above Resolutions respecting the Militia of New-Jersey

be immediately carried into effect. Whereupon, Ordered, That Mr. Dickenson, Mr. Sergeant, Mr. Clark, Mr. Frelinghuysen, Mr. Mehelm, Mr. Ellis, Mr. Elmer, Mr. Cook, and Mr. Covenhoven, be a Committee to devise ways and means for carrying the said Resolutions into immediate effect.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Wednesday, June

12, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment, and opened with prayer, pursuant to the standing order of the House. Resolved, unanimously. That in all divisions upon any if any ftlember move to insert the yeas and nays on the Minutes, and is seconded, the same shall be inserted. question,

On of

motion, that not less than two-thirds of the Deputies Congress be a quorum or body sufficient to do busithe same was carried in the negative, as follows

this

ness

;

1776.

1618

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1619 praying that a bounty

may be

to turn out as Volunteers,

offered to induce the Militia

and that the expense thereon

ari-

may be defrayed by assessments on the rateable estates of the inhabitants in general ; were read, and ordered a se-

sinn-

cond reading.

The Report of the Committee to whom were referred the Resolutions of the Continental Congress, &.C., read a second and after some time spent thereon, recommitted to time ;

Met

1776.

1620

according to adjournment.

On

motion, 1. Resolved, That, in the opinion of this Congress, the Proclamation of JVilUam Franklin, Esquire,

Governour of New-Jersey, bearing date on the 30th day of May last, in the name of the King of Great Britain, appointing a meeting of the General Assembly to be

late

One

Battalion to consist of two Companies from the County o[ Burtwo Companies from the County of Cumberland, two CompaCounty of Gloucester, and two Companies from the County

lington,

nies from the

the same Committee.

of Salem.

Tiie two Petitions from sundry lubRh'aants q( Burlington County, praying a day to be appointed for the election of

Deputies, &.C., read a second time.

Whereas, by a o{ New- Jersey,

it

late Ordinance of the Provincial Congress was resolved and directed, " That all Free-

holders qualified to vote for Representatives in General Assembly in this Colony, who have signed the General Association

recommended by this Congress

of

age, who, immediately preceding the election, shall

full

;

and

all

other persons

have resided for the space of one year in any County of this Colony, and who are worth at least £.50, Proclamation money, in personal estate, and have signed the General Association as aforesaid, shall be admitted to vote in the County wherein they reside for Deputies to serve in Provincial

Congress;"

electors in each

Monday

in

and by the

County were

May

last, at

said

Ordinance, the said meet on the fourth

directed to

the particular places therein

men-

tioned, and elect Deputies to serve in Provincial Congress:

Notwithstanding which, the electors of the County of Burlington neglected to elect such Deputies on the day in said Ordinance particularly prescribed; and no power being given

any County wherein such negligence happened, to proceed to the election of Deputies on any other day, and several of the inhabitants of said County having prayed relief in the premises to the electors of

;

Resolved, That the electors of the County of Burlington, qualified to vote for Deputies to serve in Provincial Congress by virtue of said Ordinance, do meet at the Court-House in the City of Burlington, on Thursday, the It is therefore

20th day of this instant June, between the hours of ten in the forenoon and one in the afternoon of said day, and proceed to the election of Deputies to serve in Provincial Congress

;

and

also of a

tions of said

Adjourned

County Committee, pursuant to the

direc-

,

,

now

raising in J\''e-w-.Iersey, to reinforce the Army day of December' next, unless sooner discharged; and do bind myself to conform in all instances to the regulations which are or shall be estabUshed for the go-

Colonel

,

at jVetv-l'orh, to continue in that service until the 1st

vernment of

said

Army."

And it is further resolved. That each man so entering himself as a volunteer, do furnish himself, at his own expense, with a good musket with a bayonet, a cartouch-box, blanket, canteen, and knapsack. And, in order to expedite the raising of the aforesaid Battalions, at a season when the labour of the inhabitants is greatly needed in the country, and to encourage the inlistment of men in this necessary service. It is further resolved. That there be allowed and paid as a bounty to each man, who shall voluntarily inlist as aforesaid, and be properly accoutred, the sum of three pounds, Proclamation money, over and above the Continental pay, to be paid to him at the time he marches to the general rendezvous. And it is further resolved. That said forces, when raised, shall not be compelled to march out of this Colony further than the City of JVewYorh, or parts adjacent thereto. Resolved, That as soon as any Company shall be completed, the same shall be mustered in the presence of one of the Commissioners hereinafter named, who are respectively appointed muster-masters for that purpose ; and upon such muster being had, the said Company shall immediately march to the place of general rendezvous, to be appointed by the

Brigadier-General.

Resolved, That the Colonels of said Battalions be directed to make return as soon as possible to this Congress, or Committee of Safety, or to the Brigadier-General, to be by him laid before the Congress or Committee of Safety, of the number of men inlisted in each County of this

Colony

in the Battalions aforesaid.

Resolved, That Sidney Berry, Bertjamin Halsey, Richard Ludlow, Asher Holmes, and Thomas Sinnichson, Esquires, be, and they are hereby, appointed Commissioners for paying the bounty allowed to each volunteer as aforesaid, which they, or any of them, are to pay out of the

Ordinance. till

And, in order that proper Officers may be immediately appointed. Resolved, That the Field-Oflicers, with the subalterns in each County, do forthwith assemble, and agree upon one Captain, two Lieutenants, and one Ensign, for each Company, to be raised in their respective Counties; and that the Ficld-Oiricers appointed to the command of each Battalion do appoint an Adjutant and Quartermaster for the Battalion. Resolved, 'I'hat each man, at the time of his inlisting, do sign the following inlistment "I have this day inlistcd myself in the Company of Captain as a volunteer in the Battalion commanded by

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

made current by Ordinance of the Congress of this Province and shall take proper receipts for all moneys by them, or any of them, paid out as a bounty in manner aforesaid, signed by the persons Bills of Credit lately ;

Friday, June 14, 1776.

Met according to adjournment. The Committee to whom the Report

receiving the

upon the Resolves of the Continental Congress was recomwhich was read, and mitted, made Report of the same being amended, was agreed to, and ordered to be engrossed.* ;

Adjourned *

to three o'clock, afternoon.

An

Ordinance for raising three thousand three hundred of the Mio/New-Jebset, to re-inforce the Armij n< Ntw-YonK. Passed JusE 14, 1776. Whereas the honourable Continental Congress have resolved, that the litia

Colony of A'cw-Jersey be requested immediately to send three thousand three hundred of their Militia to reinforce the Army at AV™-l'o;-fr, to be continued in the service until the 1st day of December next, unless sooner discharged by the Congress; and that the pay of the Militia, which by a late Resolve of the Continental Congress is fifty shillings. Proclamation money, per month, for the privates in all the United Colonies, commence from the day of their marching from home, allowing them one penny, lawful money, per mile, in lieu of rations, for travelhng expenses, and one day's pay for every twenty miles between home and the general rendezvous, going and returning: And as troops of the enemy, from the best intelligence, are daily expected to arrive at j\'ew-York, this Congress are anxiously desirous to carry the Resolutions of the honourable Continental Congress into immediate eflect: of eight Companies of seventy-eight non-commissioned oiiicers and privates, be immediately got in readiness and marched to j\'eiv-York, under the command of a Brigadiar-General ; which Battalions shall be raised by a voluntary inlistment, to continue in the service until the 1st day oi December next, unless sooner discharged. Hesoh'ed, further. That the said Battalions shall be formed as follows One Battalion to consist of three Companies from the County of Bergen, and three Companies from the County of Essex, and two Companies from the County of litirlingtoiu One Battalion to consist of four Companies from the County of JMiddlesex, and four Companies from the County of Monmouth. One Battalion to consist of four Companies from the County ol Morris,

Resolved, therefore, That

same

;

which

receipts,

when

gress, or other future Representative

of the Committee

five Battalions, consisting

and four Companies from the County of Sussex. One Battalion to consist of three Companies from the County of Somerset, and five Companies from the County oi Hunterdon.

any

laid before this or

body of

this

Colony,

a future Con-

to

whom

they

made

accountable,- shall discharge the said Commissioners, or of them, of all moneys legally paid out as aforesaid ; and that there

are hereby

be allowed, as a compensation to said Commissioners for reviewing said men and paying said bounty, a sum after the rate of one per cent, for all moneys by them, or any of them, paid out as aforesaid. And the Treasurers of this (;olony, appointed by Congress, and each of them, are hereby required to pay to such Commissioners, or any ol them, such sum or sums of money as may be necessary for the above purpose. Resolved, That the Commissioners appointed by the late Congress do furnish the aforesaid five Battalions with six hundred and sixty Campkettles, or one Camp-kettle for every five men, to be lent to them during this campaign. Resolved, That it be recommended to the several Committees of this Colony to be zealous and diligent in assisting the Officers to raise and equip the aforesaid forces ; and that those who do not engage in this service be earnestly requested to lend or dispose of their arms and accoutre-

ments It is

to the volunteers

who

shall inlist.

further resolved, 'I'hat the five Battalions above directed to be one Brigade, and that a Brigadier-General be appointed to

raised form

command

the same. Resolved, unanimously. That. Toseph Reed, Esq., be, and he is hereby, appointed Brigadier-General. Resolved, That the following Officers be appointed to the command of the respective Battalions, viz For the Battalion to be raised in Bergen, Essex, ani Burlington, Philij) Ian Cortland Co\onel, David Brearley Lieutenant-Colonel, and Richard Dey Major; for the Battalion to be raised in Jliddlesex and Monmouth, A'athanicl Heard Colonel, David Forman Lieutenant-Colonel, and Thomas Henderson Major for the Battalion to be raised in .)/om's and Sussex, Ephraim .Martin Colonel, John .Munson Lieutenant-Colonel, and Coriuiius I.udlu-n' Major; for the Battalion to be raised in Somerset and Hunterdon, Stephen Hunt Colonel, Philip Johnson Lieutenant-Colonel, and Joseph Philips Major; for the Battalion to be raised in Gloucester, Siilem, Cumberland, and Burlington, Silas Anvcomb Co\one\, Ba-wes 7?c«/ Lieutenant-Colonel, Major. and Resolved, That Robert Hoops, Esq , be, and he is hereby, appointed Brigade-Major of the aforesaid Brigade. Resolved, That the Militia, which have lately been drafted by order of the Committee of Safety of this Province, be, and hereby are, at liberty to inlist in the above Brigade ; and that no further drafts be made in consequence of said order. :

;

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1621

held on the 20th day of this instant June, ou;:rht not to he obeyed. On the question, the above Resolution passed as follows :

YEAS. Mr. A. Clark,

Mr,

this this

1776.

1622

Province shall account for the moneys in their hands to Congress, or to the future Legislature of this Colony.

On

the question, the said Resolution passed as follows

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1623

they are at a loss to determine what was intended to be comprised under the terms Camp Equipage: It is therefore Resolved, unanimously, That the said Commissioners immediately purchase, on the most reasonable terms they can, four hundred Tents, two tiiousand Knapsacks, two thousand Haversacks, and two thousand Canteens, togetlier with the six hundred and sixty Camp-kettles ordered by the Resolve of this Congress bearing date the 14th day of this instant June.

resigned.

A Petition from the Inhabitants of Maidenhead, in the County of Hunterdon, praying that a new mode of Government may be established, that all future elections be annual and by ballot, that the doors of Congress be kept open except in cases where secrecy is necessary, &.C., was read, and

1624

Letter be signed by the President, and sent to Colonel

Heard Sir: It is the desire of Congress, that you immediately bring fVilliam Franklin, Esquire, to this place, under such guard as you may think sufficient. Ordered, unanimously. That a copy of the following Letbe signed by the President, and sent to the Honourable John Hancock, Esquire, President of the Continental Con-

ter

gress

Ordered, That Benjamin Holme, of the County of SaPaymaster and Commissary for the Company of Artillery in West- Jersey, in the room of J\lr. Ellis, who has lem, be

1776.

:

Our Colony has of late been alarmed with sundry attempts of disaffected persons to create disturbances. The Proclamation of Mr. Franklin, our late Governour, for callSir

:

is one of these which we have thought deserving the most serious attention. Enclosed we have sent a copy of certain resolves, which we have thought necessary to pass on the occasion, together with a copy of

ing together the Assembly,

our instructions to Colonel Heard. this minute received by express from Colonel Heard, a letter, of which the enclosed is a copy. have ordered down to this place Mr. Franklin under guard and now beg leave to submit to the consideration of the Congress, whether it would not be for the general good of the United Colonies, that Mr. Franklin should be removed to some other Colony: Congress will easily conceive the reasons of this application as Mr. Franklin, we presume, would be capable of doing less mischief in Connecticut or Pennsylvania than in NewJersey. Whatever advice Congress may think proper to give us, we shall be glad to receive and would further intimate,

We

We

ordered a second reading.

A Remonstrance from sundry Inhabitants of the County of Burlington, complaining of the extravagant price of goods, &.C., and praying relief; read, and ordered a second reading.

Pursuant to a Certificate of Election, Ordered, That the following persons be commissioned as Officers in a Company of ]\Iilitia in the County oi Hunterdon, in tlie Battalion whereof /s«nc Smith, Esq., is Colonel, to wit John Hunt Captain, Henry Mershon First Lieute-

;

;

:

Ralph Lanning Second Lieutenant, Ely Moore En-

nant, sign.

Ordered, That on Friday next,

ConGovernment for the Delegates in Continental ConDelegates to represent this Colony in in the

forenoon, this

gress will consider the propriety of forming a will draft Instructions

gress

and

;

will elect

Petition from sundry persons in Captain Maitland's

Company, in Hunterdon County,

read a second time

:

Where-

upon. Ordered, That the several persons included within the boundaries of the Road from Dunlap's Ferry and the HellToion Road over Musconetamk on the south and east, and the River Delaivare and Musconetcunlc on the north and west, be added to the Company late of Captain Andretu Sprowle, in Sussex County, on account of their particular

On reading a second time the Memorial of Colonel David Brearley, respecting certain disaffected persons in MonmoxUh County; and the Letter from the President of the Provincial Congress oi Neiv-York, stating the circumstances of a defection in Bergen County, &c.. Ordered, That the same be referred to Colonel Hick, Mr. Sergeant, Mr. Symmes, Colonel Covenhoven, and Mr. Broivn.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Tuesday, June

A and

ed accordingly. Ordered, That the Commissioners immediately purchase one or more Ammunition- Wagons for the use of each of the Artillery Companies of this Colony.

Adjourned

Met

18,

1776.

according to adjournment.

Letter from Colonel Heard, of the 17th instant, read, the words following, to wit:

is in

" To Samuel Tucker, Esq., President of the Provincial Congress at Burlington, per express.

to three o'clock, afternoon.

according to adjournment.

Memorial from the County Committee of Hunterdon,

re-

specting certain disaffected persons in that County; read,

Committee for considering the Memorial of Colonel David Brearley, &c. and

situation.

Met

Ordered, That Cornelius Blanchard be Brigade-Major Eastern Division o( New- Jersey, and be commission-

for the

said Congress.

The

and approbation of the Continental Congress would satisfy some persons, who might otherwise be disposed to blame us. The enclosed printed papers will show what steps we have taken with respect to the Militia. that the countenance

referred to the

Henry Hand, Esq., Lieutenant-Colonel of the Battalion of Cape-May, having resigned his commission, Ordered, That his resignation be accepted. Eli Eldridge, Esq., Fir-st Major of the same Battalion, having resigned his commission, Ordered, That his resignation be accepted.

Thomas Learning, Esq., Adjutant of the same Battalion, having resigned his commission, Ordered, That his resignation be accepted. Pursuant to a Certificate of Election, Ordered, That the following persons be commissioned as Officers in a Company of Light Infantry, in the Township of Middletown, County of Monmouth, to wit John Burrou'cs, Jun., Captain, Jonathan Forman First Lieutenant, James TVhitlock Second Lieutenant, Sanniel Carhart Third Lieu:

tenant.

"Sir: Agreeably

to an order and resolve of the ProvinCongress, lately sent me, I this morning, with Major Deare, went to Governour Franklin, and desired him to comply with the order of Congress, and sign the parole sent me, which he absolutely refused to do, and forbade me, at ray peril, to carry the order into execution. then left the Governour's house, and ordered a company of Militia, which

cial

We

were

readiness to attend, and have placed a guard of about sixty men at and around his house. I expect he will persist in refusing to comply, and therefore send this per express, in

and beg the further directions of the Congress respecting this matter as soon as possible, by return of the bearer, and

The

Petition from sundry Inhabitants of Hunterdon Counpraying the election o( John Allen, Esq., for certain reasons, to be vacated. Sic; read a second time. On the question, whether the prayer of the said Petition be granted ? It passed in the negative. ty,

James Mott, Second Major of the Second Battalion of County, having resigned his com-

foot Militia, in iVio/wnou!'A

mission.

Ordered, That

Adjourned

till

his resignation

Wednesday, June

shall act accordingly.

" "

I

am,

in great haste, sir,

Amboy, Juno

your most humble servant, " Nathaniel Heard.

17, 1776."

Ordered, unanimously,

be accepted.

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

That

a

copy of the following

Met

19, 1776.

according to adjournment.

Agreeable to Certificate of Election, Ordered, That fVilliam Tucker be Captain, JoAn -FiVcA First Lieutenant, /sfl/fl/t Fart/ Second Lieutenant, and JoscpA

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1625

Climn Ensign, of a Company in Trenton, in tiic County of Hunterdon, whereof Isaac Smith, Esq., is Colonel.

A

Township of Monmouth County, praying that no new Government may be establisiied that the present

Petition from sundry Inlialjitants of the

Shrcivsbury, in

mode

may

; of continue, as being sufficient for the exigency of our

afiairs

may

and that no measures

;

be adopted that tend to

separate this Colony from Great Britain; was read, and ordered a second reading.

A

praying that a

new

speedy and absolute independence upon Great Britain be proclaimed, &ic.; read, and ordered a second reading.

162G

be raised in the Counties oi Burand Salem, under the comColonel Silas Neivcomh. mand of Ordered, That the Commissioners for the Company of Artillery in West-Jersey, immediately purchase the following articles for the use of said Company, viz: Powder, 600 Cannon-ball, 500 weight weight Double-headed and Grape-shot, 1,500 weight; Lead, GOO weight; Knapsacks and Haversacks, 64 of each Intrenching Tools, Spades and Shovels, 20 Hoes, 6 2 Worms 4 Rammers and Sponges 4 Handspikes, capped with iron a sufficient quantity of coarse Osnaburgs, or Crocus, for making up Cartndges with Grape-shot 36 Canisters for the same purpose 600 Tubes, ready filled and a sufficient quantity of Port-fires, Tubeboxes, and boxes for transportation of Cartridges. to the Battalion directed to

lington, Gloucester, Cumberland,

;

;

:

;

Ward

of Nciv-Brunswick, Government be established, and that a

Petition from the South

1776.

;

;

;

;

;

;

A Petition from the Committee of Tewkesbury and Readingtown, in Hunterdon County, praying that the bounty offered by a late Resolve of this Congress, in order to induce the Militia to turn out, may be augmented read, and order-

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

;

ed

to lie

on the

The Committee of the North Ward of the City of PerthAmboy, having transmitted to this Congress an appraisement of Arms, taken from the non-Associators within their bounds Ordered, That the same be

The

tIJommittee to

whom

filed.

were referred the Memorials

and Representations respecting certain disaffected persons Counties oi Monmouth, Hunterdon, Bergen, and Sussex, made Report, and, after sundry amendments, the same was agreed to, and the Congress came to sundry Resolutions thereupon, which are as follow, viz Resolved, That it be referred to the County Committee of Sussex, to take order with the persons who have been charged with behaving in a disorderly manner in that County; and that they be empowered to punish the delinquents according as the case may require, not exceeding fine and in the

imprisonment. Resolved, That the Affidavits transmitted to this Congress by the President of the Provincial Congress of New- York, respecting a supposed defection in the County of Bergen, be transmitted to the Committee of that County; and that they be directed immediately to examine strictly into the truth of the case, and report their Proceedings to this ConResolved, That the following persons Richard Robins and Moses Ivins, of the County of Monmouth, and John Vaught, Frederick Fritz, George TJpdike, and William Rittenhouse, of the County of Hunterdon, be required to attend this Congress, on Tuesday, the 25th day of this in:



stant June, at nine o'clock, in the forenoon,

and

that the

President employ persons to serve the summonses.

Met

Third Battalion of Hunterdon, praying that the lie

be joined

on the

The Memorial

to the First Battalion

does,

and

;

read,

said

and

of William Nathaniel French, setting forth,

lies

lest the

A

Letter from President Hancock, of the 19th instant, together with a Resolve of the Continental Con-

was read

;

gress, in the

words following,

viz

Resolved, That it be Convention of New-Jersey to proceed 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, and then this Con-

"In Congress, June

recommended

19, 1776.

to the

gress will direct the place of his confinement, they concurring in sentiment with the Convention o(

would be improper

to confine

him

New- Jersey,

in that

that

it

Colony.

" Extract from the Minutes "

Adjourned

The the

Charles Thomson,

to

adjournment.

Certificate of Election for

County o( Burlington ;

Adjourned

Secretary."

to six o'clock, afternoon.

till

Members of Congress

read, allowed,

and

for

filed.

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Friday, June 21, 1776.

JMet according to adjournment.

that

Township of County of Morris, praying that all officere in Government may be annually elected by the people the fees of all officers may be as low as possible, fcc;

was

read,

Petition from sundry Inhabitants of the

and ordered a second reading.

Ordered, That the President write to General Livingston. and inform him that it is the desire of Congress that he would take the command of the ftlilitia destined for Neic-York.

The

honourable the Continental Congress having resolved to the Conventions o( New-Jersey the Assembly of Connecticut, re-

"That lettei-s be written and New- York, and to

to them to authorize the Commander-in-Chief Colony of New- York to call to the assistance of that

commending

table.

that the Estate of his father

representative,

from the Committee

to Certificate of Election

missioned accordingly.

civil

A Petition from part of Captain John Phillips^ Company, ordered to

Pursuant

Blorris, in the

according to adjournment.

Company may

according to adjournment.

of Salem, prior to the Militia Ordinance, Ordered, That Sainuel Dick, Esq., be Colonel, IVhitton Cripps, Esq., Lieutenant-Colonel, William Mecum, Esq., First Major, and Edward Hall, Esq., Second Major, of the Western Battalion of the said County; and that they be com-

A

to three o'clock, afternoon.

Pursuant to Certificate of Election, Ordered, unanimously. That David Chambers, Esq., be Colonel, Thomas Loivrey Lieutenant-Colonel, and Cornelitis Stout Second Major, of the Third Battalion of Foot Militia in the County of Hunterdon. in the

Met

Met according

gress as speedily as possible.

Adjourned

Thursday, June 20, 1776.

table.

and family, of

whom

he

is

the

England and the Island o[ Barbasame may be forfeited, praying that he in

may

be exempted from all military calls, associations, &c.; read, and ordered to lie on the table.

in the

Colony, when necessity

shall require

it,

such of the

^lilitia

of those Colonies as may be necessary, and to afford him such other assistance as the situation of affaii-s may require and that it be further recommended to the Convention oi New- York to empower the said Commander-in-Chief to im-

and water-craft, when necessary, for the puband also to remove ships and other vessels in Hudson's and the East Rivers, for the purpose of securing :" them from the enemy This Congress, sensible of the importance of securing New- York against the attempts of the enemy to cut off the communication between the Eastern and Southern Colonies and although they have directed the immediate raising of five press carriages

Whereas some doubts have arisen whether the late Ordinance of the Provincial Congress, directing a bounty of one shilling a pound to be paid for all merchantable Saltpetre manufactured in this Province, should be allowed on any Saltpetre unless in those cases where the same was purchased by the respective Committees For removing which :

lick service

;

;

doubts.

Resolved, That the aforesaid bounty be paid for all Saltpetre manufactured in this Colony, upon the proof and under the limitations in the said Ordinance directed, whether the same be sold in this or any other Colony.

Ordered, That Dr. Thomas

Ewing be

appointed Surgeon

Battalions to join the Continental

Army

for that

purpose

it is impossible to ascertain the number of the enemy, they are of opinion that, in the present uncertain state of publick affairs, the inhabitants of this Pravlnce ought, in cases

yet, as

of extraordinary danger, to give

all

the occasional assistance

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1627

power, especially as the fate of America may perhaps depend upon the issue of this summer's campaign: in their

1776.

1628

Pursuant to the Order of the Day, the Congress went into the consideration of the propriety of forming a Governmentj

Do Resolve, That in case the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental forces at Neiv-York, upon the arrival of British troops, shall stand in need of the aid of the Militia

&iC.

Colony, that he be authorized to call for the same, to one of the Brigadiei-s-General or the ColoAnd the said Militia, upon such request, nels of Militia. are desired immediately to march to the defence of the parts And invaded, or threatened with an immediate invasion. all such of the Militia as, upon the requisition of the Commander-in-Chief, shall march to the defence of any place in danger, shall be entided to the same pay and subsistence as are allowed to the Continental forces, and shall not be detained in such service more than one month from the time of This Congress, from experience of the zeal their marching. and alacrity of the inhabitants of this Colony to step forward for the defence of America on all fomier occasions, are persuaded that this request from their Representatives, arising from pure necessity, will be most cheerfully complied with, and the honour and safety of the Colony thereby main-

mendation of the Continental Congress of the 15th o[

of

this

by applying

tained.

Ordered, That a copy of the above Resolution be transmitted to General Washington; and that the same be published in the newspapers.

Ordered, unanimously, That Doctor Melancthon Freeman be appointed Surgeon, and Mr. Benjamin Stockton Surgeon's Mate, to the Battalion directed to be raised in the Counties of Middlesex and Monmouth.

A Petition from John Reynolds and

George Riche, PaperGermantown, Pennsylvania, setting forth, that they designed to carry on their trade in this Colony, and praying read, and that this Congress would encourage the same makere

in

;

ordered a second reading.

A Petition from sundry Inhabitants of the County of Burlington, setting forth, that great expense will necessarily at-

tend recruiting the men directed to be raised by an Ordinance of the 14th instant ; and praying that the men may be subsisted and paid from the time of inlistment ; read, and ordered a second reading.

William Franklin, Esq., late Governour of this Province, having been brought before this Congress, pursuant to an order for that purpose, to be examined touching such parts of his conduct as were deemed inimical to the liberties of America, Mr. Franklin refused to answer the questions put to him, denying the authority of this body, which he alleged had usurped the King's Government in this Province. As the said William Franklin, by this and his former conduct, in many instances, appears to be a virulent enemy to therethis country, and a person that may prove dangerous ;

fore,

it

is

Unanim,ou^ly Resolved, That the said William Franklin in such place and manner as the honourable

be confined

Continental Congress shall direct. Ordered, That the President write to the Continental Congress, enclosing the above Resolves and the questions that were put to Mr. Franklin. Resolved, That Lieutenant-Colonel Bowes Re ad keep under safe guard the person of William Franklin, Esquire, until the further order of this

Congress

;

and that the President sign an

order for this purpose. Adjourned to three o'clock, afternoon.

Met

according to adjournment.

The

Petition from sundry Inhabitants o{ Burlington

Coun-

expense will necessarily attend the recruiting the men directed to be raised by an Ordinance of the 14th instant; and praying that the men may be subsisted and paid from the time of inlistment, was read a second time, and referred to Mr. Dick, Mr. Ellis, and Mr. Symmcs. ty, setting forth, that great

Four

Township of Middlctoivn and County of Monmouth, praying that the

Petitions from the

Shrewsbury,

in

the

Government of the Province of Neiv-Jersey may not be changed, Stc, read.

Two Petitions from the Township of Freehold, in the County of Monmouth, praying that this Congress will immediately establish such mode of Government as shall be equal to the present exigencies of this Colony, and fully coincide with the Resolve of the honourable Continental

Congress of the I5th oi May

last;

were read.

Resolved, That a Government be formed for regulating the internal police of this Colony, pursuant to the recom-

May

last.

On Ir.

the question,

A. Clark,

it

passed

in

the affirmative, as follows:

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1629

Colonies independent of Great Britain, entering into a Confederacy for union and common defence, making treaties with foreign nations for commerce and assistance, and to take sucii other measures as to them and you may appear necessary for these great ends, promising to support them with tiie 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. Ordered, That Ebenezer HoweU, of the County of Salem, be commissioned as Major of the Battalion commanded by Colonel Newcomb.

A

Petition from the

County Committee of Monmouth;

A Petition

from Stafford Township, in Monmouth County; read, and ordered a second reading. A Petition from Charles Loveland ; read, filed; and ordered a second reading. Two Petitions from the Township of Woodbridge; read, filed, and ordered a second reading. Colonel iJorrfew's Account for the paying of iio6eW (^uigleys Company; read, filed, and ordered a second reading.

two

to

o'clock, on

Monday

arisen in raising the

new

levies, &.C.;

Representation of Richard Robins and Moses Ivins, containing reasons for their refusing to this

House

obey the summons of

read.

;

The

Congress took under consideration the Memorial of Hunt ; and also the Report of the Committee to whom was referred the Petition from Burlington County, &,c.; and after some time spent therein, came to the follow-

Colonel

ing determination

Whereas, by a

late

Ordinance of this Congress, for the hundred of the Militia to New-York, no provision was made

raising of three thousand three

Army

reinforce the

ment

at

of the said Militia from the time of

marching

to the time of

and whereas

;

is

it

inlist-

hi'.'hly

made therefor: That every commissioned Offiof fifteen shillings a week for his

reasonable that some provision should be therefore Resolved,

It is

cer be allowed at the rate

subsistence from the time he begins to recruit to the time

he begins

to

march

rendezvous and and Private be allowand six pence a week for

to the place of general

;

that every non-commissioned Officer

ed

at

the rate of seven shillings

his subsistence,

next.

1630

read, and ordered a second reading.

for the subsistence

read, and ordered a second reading.

Adjourned

have

several difficulties

1776.

computing from the time of his inlistment marching for the place of destination or

to the time of his

general rendezvous. Monday, June 24, 1776.

Met

Adjourned

according to adjournment.

Two

from the Townships of Middletown and Freehold, in the County of Monmouth, praying that this Congress would immediately establish such mode of Government as shall be equal to the exigencies of this Colony, and fully coincide with the Resolve of the honourable Continental Congress of the 15th of May last read, and ordered a second ;

reading.

A

Letter from the County Committee of MonmoiLth, en-

closing an Association signed by certain disaflected persons read,

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

Petitions

and ordered a second reading.

A Representation of the County giving a detail of Colonel

Committee of Monmouth,

Forman and

the Minute-men's

seizing several disaffected persons in that

County without

command of the Committee, though approved by them afterwards accompanied with an account of the expense attending the seizure of said persons read, and ordered a second reading. the express

;

Wednesday, June

Met

Whereas

appears, from undoubted

it

prepare the draft of a Constitution.

Ordered, That Thomas Okeson, charged with supplying Men-of-War with Provisions, be committed to the common Jail of Burlington Couniy. the British

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

who

take every measure in their Regulations of Congress, and to oppose the cause of American freedom and as it is highly necessary that an inmiediate check be given to so daring a spirit of disaffection It is therefore Resolved, unanimously, Tliat Colonel Charles ;

Read

take to his aid two Companies of the Militia of the

Coumy

of Bu7-lington, properly officered and armed, and proceed without delay to the County of Monmouth, in order to apprehend such Insurgents and disaffected persons in said

County Read.

as this Congress shall give in direction to Colonel

Resolved, unanimously, That Colonel cessary, to his assistance the Militia of

Met

as

engage

Trumbull be desired to treat him agreeable to the Resolu:" tions of Congress respecting Prisoners Resolved, That the President do issue ordei-s, and take such measures as may be necessary to carry the above Resolve into execution.

ment

command

of the Militia destined for Neiv-

York:

therefor.

Charles Read:

apprehend Richard Robins them unto the keeper of the common Jail of the County of Gloucester, who is hereby commanded to keep said persons in close and safe confinement, until this Congress, or Committee of Safety, shall take further order therein and you are also to apprehend Anthony Woodicard, Jun., Joseph Grover. Guisebcrf Guisebertson, and Thomas Lewis JVoodward, and bring them are hereby ordered to

and

Ivitis,

to deliver

;

before this Congress, or, during their recess, the

Committee

of Safety.

from authentick information, that in the County of Hunrerdon have confederated for the purpose of opposing the measures of the Continental and Provincial Congresses, and have

certain

it

appeai-s,

disaffected

persons

even proceeded to acts of open and daring violence have plundered and robbed the house of Captain Jones ; have beaten, wounded, and otherwise abused the friends of freedom in said County, and now publickly declare, that they will take up arms and engage in behalf of the King of Great Britain, the avowed and implacable enemy of the United Colonies In order to put an effectual stop to a combination so hostile and dangerous It is Resolved, unanimously, That Lieutenant-Colonel Ten Eick and Jlajor Berry take to their aid such a number of the Militia, properlv officered and armed, of the Counties of Hunterdon and Somerset, as they may think necessary, ;

Resolved, That Colonel Nathaniel Heard be, and he hereby, appointed Brigadier-General of the said forces.

is

The Committee to whom was referred the Petition from Burlington, praying that the men raised in order to reinforce the Army at New- York, may be subsisted and paid from the time of inlistment,

made Report

;

which was read, and order-

ed a second reading.

Adjourned

receive the like pay as the

Resolved, That the following Directions, signed by the President, be given to Colonel Read.

Whereas

Brigadier-General Livingstori having, by letter, informed this Congress that he could not, for reasons therein mentioned, accept the

in this service shall

and Moses

;

take, if ne-

Continental Troops. Resolved, unanimously, That the said Militia furnish themselves with Provisions, and that this Congress will order pay-

You

The Continental Congress having resolved, " That William Franklin, Esquire, be sent under guard to Governour Trumbull, of Connecticut, who is desired to take his ]jarole and if Mr. Franklin refuse to give his parole, that Govemour

Read

Monmouth.

Resolved, unanimously, That such Officers and Militia

Colonel Tuesday, June 25, 1776.

according to adjournment.

intelligence, that

County of Monmouth, power to contravene the

there are several Insurgents in the

;

Ordered, That Mr. Green, Mr. Cooper, Mr. Sergeant, Mr. Ogden, Mr. Elmer, Mr. Hughes, ]\lr. Covenhoven, Mr. Symines, Mr. Condict, and Mr. Dick, be a Committee to

26, 1776.

according to adjournment.

to three o'clock, afternoon.

Met according

to

adjournment.

Memorial of Colonel Stephen Hunt,

setting

forth

that

:

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JUNE,

1631

and proceed, without delay, to the said County of Hunterdon, in order to apprehend such Insurgents and disaffected persons as this Congress shall direct. Resolved, unanimously, That such Officers and Militia as engage in this service shall receive the like pay as the

Continental Troops. Resolved, unanimously, That the said Militia furnish themselves with Provisions, and that this Congress will order pay-

ment

therefor.

Resolved, That the following Directions, signed by the President, be sent to Colonel Ten Eick : Colonel

Abraham Ten Eick

1632

by

this Congress to the honourable Continental Congress as a proper person to be Paymaster of the said levies.

The

Congress resolved

itself into

a Committee of the

Whole, and, ]\Ir. Covenhoven being in the chair, took under consideration the draft of a Constitution, he. The President resumed the chair, and Mr. Covenhoven, from the Committee of the Whole, made report that they have made some progress in the matters to them referred, and pray leave to sit again.

A

Letter from the Provincial Congress oi l^ew-York,

enclosing an extract from their Minutes, was received and read.

:

John Vaught, Joxeph Lee, Thomas Swindle, George Cyphers, Jun., Peter Cyphers, John Day, JVilUam Hunt, Jun., Jonathan Hunt, John Hunt, John Seal, Jun., Herman Millham, Christopher Vaught, James Mac Cord, George Casncr, Thomas Buskirk, Frederick Frittz, Peter Abgar, Daniel Hunt, George Up-

Your

1776.

are hereby ordered to apprehend

John Horpence, Philip Forker, Christopher Dilts, Bartholomeiv Thatcher, Samuel Slater, Edward Taylor, and John Taylor, all of whom you are to keep under strong guard, and to bring before this Congress, or Committee of Safety, or, during their recess, to deliver them to the keeper dike,

common Jail of Trenton, who is hereby commanded keep them in close and safe confinement, until this Congress, or Committee of Safety, shall take further orders

Adjourned

Met

The

three o'clock, afternoon.

till

according to adjournment.

Congress resolved itself into a Committee of the JNIr. Covenhoven beins in the chair, resumed

Whole, and,

the consideration of the draft of a Constitution.

The President resumed the chair, and Mr. Covenhoven, from the Committee of the Whole, made report that they have made some further progress in the matters referred, and desire leave to sit again. Adjourned

to

them

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

till

of the to

therein.

Adjourned

to

The Committee

adjournment.

force the

appointed to draft a Constitution, &;c., was read, and ordered

shillings a

reported a draft accordingly; which

Ordered, That Mr. Mehelm, ]Mr. TVoodhuU, Dr. Bloomand Mr. Joseph Holmes, be a Committee to examine and report all publick Accounts.

field,

Ordered, That the President write to the Western Comand desire them to deliver half a hundred weight of Gunpowder to Colonel Johnston. missioners,

A Petition from the Town Committees of Galloway and Great Egg-Harbour, praying that the surplus of the money arising from the sale of goods saved in a transport which was stranded on the coast, may be appropriated towards equipping such persons within their bounds as are unable to equip themselves was read, and ordered a second reading. ;

Ordered, That Mr. Philip Vickers Fithian be Chaplain to the Battalion under the command of Colonel JSewcomb, and to the Battalion to be raised in the Counties of Middlesex and Monmouth, which are destined for Nciv-York. Petition from sundry Inhabitants of the

County of

none of the Militia may be taken out of that County, as it lies so exposed to hostile invasions, was read a second time, and ordered to lie on the table.

Monmouth, praying

that

Ordered, That the Company under the command of Captain Stillwell, which was directed by the late Committee of Safety to guard the coast of this Colony near SandyHook, be continued until the further order of this Convention or Committee of Safety. If it be inconvenient for any of the Company to continue in the said employment. Captain Stillwell is hereby empowered to supply such deficiency by inlistment.

Ordered, That Colonel George Taylor be Commissary for the said

A

Thomas Okeson, now

confined in

Bur-

lington Jail, for corresponding with the enemy, praying that he may be released ; read, and ordered a second reading.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Thursday, June 27, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment.

The Memorial

from Azariah

the appointment of

Troops

as

;

to

this Congress would be reasonable and necessary; was read, and ordered a second reading.

be raised

Two

further allowance as

may

Township County of Monmouth, praying

Petitions from sundry Inhabitants of the

of Upper Freehold,

in

the

would immediately establish such mode of Government as shall be equal to the exigencies of this Colony, and fully coincide with the Resolve of the honour-

that this Congress

able Continental Congress of the 15th of Jiay last

Army

in this

at

Resolved, That Mr.

read,

and

The several Petitions for and against the establishment of a Government read the second time, and referred to the Committee of the Whole. ;

The

Congress resolved

itself into

a

Committee of the

Whole.

The President resumed the ciiair, when Mr. Covenhoven, from the Committee of the Whole, made report that they had not yet come to any Resolutions, and desired leave to sit again.

Adjourned

till

Met according

three o'clock afternoon. to

adjournment.

Andrew Hunter be Chaplain to the now raising in this Colony, under the command of Colonels Van Cortland, Martin, and Hunt, destined to reinforce the Army at New- York. Ordered, That Mr.

three Battalions

The

Congress resolved

itself into

a

Committee of the

Whole.

The President resumed the chair, and Mr. Covenhoven, from the Committee of the Whole, made report that they had not yet come to any Resolutions, and desired leave to sit

Dunham,

Esq., requesting for the

Pursuant to a Certificate of Election, Ordered, That Elliot Hoivell be Second Lieutenant of the Light Infantry Company in the first Battalion of Foot Militia in tiie County of Hunterdon, whereof Isaac S7nith, Esquire,

is

Colonel.

Pursuant to a Certificate of Election, Ordered, That Joseph Clunn be Ensign of a at Trenton, in the same Battalion.

Adjourned

till

Province

for the

Company

seven o'clocic to-morrow morning.

Continental serSaturday, June 29, 1776.

read the second time.

reinforce the

;

ordered a second reading.

Commissary and Paymaster

Whereupon, Resolved, That this Congress recommend Mr. Dunham Commissary for the new levies raising in this Colony to

vice

not sufficient to defray their expenses in

is

men, and requesting that

again.

Company.

Petition from

week

inlisting said

make such

a second reading.

The

according to adjournment.

A Petition from the Officers of the MW'iUa of Gloucester, appointed to raise men for the Continental service to reinTroops now in New- York, setting forth that fifteen

to three o'clock, afternoon.

Met according

Friday, June 28, 1776.

Met

Met according

A

to

Petition from

adjournment. die

County Committee oi Monmouth,

iVew- York.

setting forth that, in pursuance of a Resolution of the late

Rowland Chambers be recommended

Congress, said Committee furnished Colonel Maxwell's Bat-

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JULY,

1633

The

Arms, and tliat it was in their option have them replaced or receive tlieir value in money, and praying that this Congress would order the value of said Arms to be paid in money; read a second lime, and ordered tliat the Treasurer pay the amount of said Arms according talion with fifty stand of

The

Congress an

:

for this

service

be cheerfully defrayed by the Congress. "

Samuel Tucker,

Member

"

Hook, and

boarding and lodging Governour Franldin, .

-

-

informing that nineteen

his servant,

£3

-

0."

Two Memorials, the one from the County Committee of Monmouth, the other from the Committee of Safety of that

Adjourned

County, respecting certain disaffected persons in said County, and requesting that this Congress would take some decisive order therein were read, and ordered a second reading.

till

number of Members not

sufficient

Ivins, praying

Congress with two tons of Powder, Ordered, That the same be distributed

Morris,

-

...

-

-

Sjissex,

-

-

-

A

Hunterdon,

-

-

-

Burlington,

-

-

-

Letter from Adjutant-General Reed, informing that Howe is arrived at Sandy-Hook with a consider-

General

-

able force, and desiring immediate detachments from the Militia of this Colony, to reinforce the Army at iVeii>- York

Adjourned

filed.

Met

disarm

Sandy-Hook,

Ordered, That all officers who have inlisted men properly armed, under the late Ordinance for raising three thousand three hundred men within this Colony, proceed immediately widi such numbers as they have collected, or can collect, without delay, to Neiv-York ; assigning a due proportion of officers to the men that they may be ready,

all

require, to col-

All officers. Paymasters, and othere,

the friends of liberty throughout the

earnestly entreated

now

to exert

and Colony are most

themselves

for the preser-

This Congress do likewise earnestly desire all pei-sons to Arms or other necessaries on tlie present occasion, and

lend

Ordered, That Cornelius

make amends

Van

Voorst be LieutenantMajor, and John Mauritius Gootchins Second Major, of the Battalion of Foot iMilitia in

Colonel, Richard

Dey

-

-

-

-

-

JSlonmouth,

-

-

-

Middlesex,

-

-

-

Essex,

-

-

400 500 700 500

STOO

all

a regulation of the late Congress the several Colony were authorized and directed to

in this

the non-Associators and persons notoriously disbounds ; and whereas it appears that

instantly executed It is therefore Directed and Resolved, That the several Colonels in this Colony do, without delay, proceed to disarm all such persons within their Districts whose religious and likewise principles will not permit them to bear arms all such as have hitherto refused and still do refuse to bear ;

arms

Fii-st

the County of Bergen.

that the

;

arms so taken be appraised by some

rent person or pereons for the

;

vation of their country, their lives, liberties, and property.

they may rest assured of the publick faith to for any loss or damage they may incur.

Somerset,

the said regulation hath not been carried into effect in some parts of the Colony, and it being absolutely necessary, in the present dangerous state of publick affairs, when arms are much wanted for the publick defence, that it should be

Certain advice being received of the arrival of General

are required to be diligent in their respective stations

400 400 400 400 300

affected within their

respect the formation of the Constitution.

may

in the following

to three o'clock, afternoon.

Whereas by

Agreed that twenty of the Members of this Congress be a quorum or body sufficient to transact any business, except

occasion

furnished

according to adjournment.

Committees

John Covenhoven, Esquire, elected Vice-President.

officers, as

1776.

1,900

Ordered, That the President write to Mr. Reed, and inform him of the situation of our levies, and the orders this Congress have issued.

lect the remainder.

1,

manner

-

and leaving other

attending, adjourned

this

Bergen,

at

the

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

After the hearing. Ordered, That they be remanded to prison.

Howe

fleet lies at

filed.

Monday, July

;

may

read and

Met according to adjournment. The Continental Congress having, upon request,

a hearing, confessing their faults, offering to make discoveread and filed. ries, and praying a discharge Ordered, That they attend immediately.

such as

;

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

till

Ordered, That Dr. John Condict be Surgeon to the Battalion directed to be raised in the Counties of Bergen, Essex, and Burlington, under the command of Colonel Van Cortland, destined to reinforce the Army at Nejv-York.

read and

of the enemy's

Sunday, June 30, 1776.

A

;

and Moses

sail

forty-five in sight

Ordered, Tliat the President write to the Continental Congress, enclosing a copy of the above Letter, and requesting a supply of Powder.

Ordered, That the Treasurer pay the above Account.

A Petition from Richard Robins

attend-

in his

Tlie Congress received a Letter from Colonel Taylor, of ten o'clock in the forenoon of this day,

Monmouth, dated

Sic, one week,

enjoined to be punctual

President.

" Colonel Nathaniel Heard to Josiah F. Davenport, June Dr. 26, 1776,

To

is

Ordered, That Dr. Jonathan Horton be Surgeon, and Dr. David Ewen Surgeon's Mate, to llie Battalion directed to be raised in the Counties of Morris and Sussei, under the command of Colonel Martin, destined to reinforce the Army at Neiv- York.

port.

will

Committee of the

a

President resumed the chair.

time every ance.

" Extract of a Letter from the Provincial Congress, dated Burlington, June 15, 1776, delivered to Mr. Daven" To Colonel Nathaniel Heard " Whatever expense may be necessary

itself into

Mr. Sparks, from the Conmiittee of the Whole, reported, that the Committee had come to several Resolutions, which he was ready to report. Resolved, That the Congress will receive the Report of the Committee of the Whole on Tuesday next; at which

to the appraisement. to

Congress resolved

1634

Whole.

to

Mr. Josiah Franklin Davenport handed Account, in the words following

1776.

in the

;

indiffe-

that the said Colonels give vouchers

same, and that the appraisement and receipt be hands of the person disarmed.

left

John Leonard, Richard Robins, Moses Ivins, Thomas Lewis Woodward, and Ezckicl Forman, being brought beCongress to answer certain charges exhibited against them, did severally and voluntarily execute bonds, in the penalty of £500, conditioned at all times and in all things well and faithfully to observe, obey, keep, and perform all Resolves, Ordei-s, Ordinances, and Regulations of the Continental Congress, and of this Provincial Congress, and to be of good behaviour, and in nowise knowingly or willingly to act inimically or unfriendly to the cause of the L'nited Cofore

lonies.

Ordered, That Charles Pettit, Esquire, be commanded immediately to remove the publick Records and Papers in liis custody, from the City of Perth-Amhoy to the City of Burlington.

Adjourned

Adjourned



to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Tuesday. July

Met

to three o'clock, afternoon.

Met according to adjournment. Fourth Series. Vol. vi.

till

2,

1776.

according to adjournment.

Ao-reeable to order, the Congress went into the consideReport of the Committee of the Wiiole ; and

ration of the

103

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JULY,

1635 after

some time spent

ration thereof

till

therein, deferred tlie further conside-

the afternoon.

Resolved, That, in the opinion of this Congress, the Miliof Monmouth County ought, for the present, to remain in their own County, excepting such part thereof as by the late tia

this Congress were required to form their proportion of the New-Jersey Brigade of three thousand three

Ordinance of

hundred men.

Adjourned

Met

Henry in

to three o'clock, afternoon.

according to adjournment. fVaddell, Esq., Captain of a Grenadier Company Monmouth, having, by Petition, prayed that

the Militia oi

this

Compress would accept a resignation of

assigning for reason that he

his

was so frequently

Commission, afflicted

with

the gout that he was rendered incapable of doing the duty

of an officer. Ordered, That

his resignation

be accepted.

Ordered, Tiiat Colonel Isaac Smith be directed to take charge of Christopher Vaught, John Vaught, Joseph Lee, Frederick Frittz, Thomas Bu-skirk, Jonathan Hunt, Jacob Hunt, Bartholomew Thatcher, John Brady, John Horpence, Philip Cool, Philip Fankcr, James Greames, and William Thatcher, disaffected persons, apprehended by order of Conand to confine them in the common Jail of Trenton,

gress,

and there to keep them under guard until the of this Congress or the Committee of Safety.

further order

Congress resumed the consideration of the Report of Whole which, after sundry amendments, was agreed to.

The

the Committee of the

;

On the question, Whether the draft of the Constitution,* formed on the Report of the Committee of the Whole, be 'Constitution of 'S^w-Irksey, passed July 2, 1776. all the constitutional authority ever possessed by the Kings of Great Britain over these Colonies or their other dominions was, by compact, derived from the People, and held of them for the common interest allegiance and protection are, in the nature of of the whole society

Whereas

:



each equally depending upon the other, and liable by the others being refused or withdrawn And whereas George the Third, King of Great Britain, has refused protection to the good people of these Colonies, and, by assenting to sundry acts of the

things, reciprocal

ties,

to be dissolved

:

them to the absolute dominion of that body, and has also made war upon them in the most cruel and unnatural manner, for no other cause than asserting their just rights; all civil authority under him is necessarily at an end, and a dissolution of Government in each Colony has consequently taken place And whereas, in the present deplorable situation of these Colonies, exposed to the fury of a cruel and relentless enemy, some form of GovernBritisli Parliament, attempted to subject

is absolutely necessary, not only for the preservation of good order, but also the more effectually to unite the people, and enable them to exert their whole force in their own necessary defence ; and as the honourable the Continental Congress, the supreme council of the American Colonies, has advised such of the Colonies as have not yet gone into the measure to adopt for themselves respectively such Government as shall best conduce to their own happiness and safety, and the well-being oi America in general We, the Representatives of the Colony oiJ\'e-u;-Jersey, having

ment

:

all the Counties in the freest manner, and in Congress assembled, have, after mature deliberation, agreed upon a set of Charter Eights and the form of a Constitution, in manner following, viz: I. That the Government of this Province shall be vested in a Governour, Legislative Council, and General Assembly. II. That the said Legislative Couni-il and Assembly shall be chosen

been elected by

for the first time

on the second

Tiiestlaij of

August

next, the

Members

number and qualifications as is hereinafter mentioned, and shall be and remain vested with all the powers and authority to be held by any future Legislative Council and Assembly of this Colony until the second Tuesday in October, which will be in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-seven. III. That on the said second Tuesday in October, yearly and every year forever, (with the privilege of adjourning from day to day, as occasion may require,) the Counties shall severally choose one person to be a Member of the Legislative Council of this Colony, who shall be, and have been for one whole year next before the election, an inhabitant and freeholder in the County in which he is chosen, and worth at least f 1,000, Proclamation money, of real and personal estate within the same County that, at the same time, each County shall also choose whereof

shall be the

same

in

;

of Assembly, provided that no person shall be entitled to a seat in the said Assembly, unless he be, and have been for one whole year next before the election, an inhabitant of the County he is to represent, and worth £500, Proclamation money, in real and personal estate in the same County ; that on the second Tuesday next after the day

three

Members

of election the Council and Assembly shall separately meet, and that the consent of both Houses shall be necessary to every law, provided that seven shall be a quorum of the Council for doing business, and that no law shall pass unless there be a majority of all the Representatives of each body personally present and agreeing thereto Provided, alivays. That if a majority of the Representatives of this Province, in Council and General Assembly convened, shall at any time or times hereafter judge it equitable and proper to add to or diminish the number or proportion of the Members of the Assembly for any County or Counties in this Colo:

ny, then and in such case the

same may, on the

principles of

more equal

1776.

1636

now

confirmed, or be deferred for further consideration,

was

carried for confirming

now,

as follows:

it

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JULY,

1637

It is therefore unanimously Resolved, That Colonel Charles Read, Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Forinnn, and Major Joseph Haight, do take two hundred of the Militia of Burlinstoii County and two hundred of the Militia of Monmouth, and proceed, without delay, in order to quell the aforesaid insurrection, and to disarm and take prisoners whomsoever

they shall find assembled with intent to oppose the friends of American freedom which prisoners so taken they shall forthwith bring before this Congress, and the said officers are empowered to take such measures as they shall think neces;

sary for this service.

Adjourned

Met

On

Whether

printed, or the printing thereof be deferred for a few days, in order to reconsider, in a full House, the propriety of the last clause in the Constitution, containing the proviso respecting reconciliation it was carried as follows ;

FOR PRINTING NOW.

Josepli

Mr. Shinn, Tallman, Fennimore,

Mr. Clark, Elmer,

Holmes,

Harris,

Mott, Sparks, Cooper,

Bowen,

Shreve,

Learning, Shaver,

Covenhoven.

Mr. Josiah Holmes, Ellis,

Mehelm,

Sergeant,

on the table.

lie

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Thursday, July

Met according

The

to

4, 1776.

adjournment.

John Reynolds and George Riche, Germantown, Pennsylvania, setting forth, that they designed to carry on their trade in this Colony, and praying that this Congress would encourage the same read a second time, and deferred for further consideration. Petition from

Paper-makers

in

in

the execution of their several offices, under the

new Government be

settled

perfected, having respect to the present Constitution of

the application of the Provincial Congress of

may

think necessary for

The Petition from the Town Committee of Galloway and Great Egg-Harbour, praying that the surplus of the money arising from the sale of goods saved on board a transport belonging to the enemy, which was stranded on the Jersey coast, may be appropriated towards equipping such within their bounds, and the bounds of Little Egg-Harbour, as are unable to equip themselves; was read a second time, and

the several officers of the

New-

York, Ordered, That they be empowered to apprehend and secure such of the inhabitants of that Colony who have reinto this, as they

may

authority of the people, until the intended Legislature,

Ordered, That one thousand copies of the draft of Charter Rights be immediately printed and dispersed among the inhabitants of this Colony.

moved

such person or persons as they

the publick good.

proceed Mr. Symmes, Dick.

Paterson,

On

and that the said Committee be and apprehend and con-

Resolved, That, in order to prevent a failure of justice, all Judges, Justices of the Peace, Sheriffs, Coroners, and other inferior officers of the late Government within this Colony,

FOR DEFERRING. Mr. Frelinghuysen,

;

to issue warrants

the draft of the Constitution be

now

Mr. Camp, Hardenburgh,

fine

Adjourned

according to adjournment.

the question,

power

vested with

ordered to

to three o'clock, afternoon.

New- York

Congress of

163S

1776.

think necessary for the publick

and and

New-

Jersey, as by the Congress of late ordained, and the orders

of the Continental and Provincial Congresses; and that all actions, suits, and processes, be continued, altering only the style and form thereof according to the terms by the said Constitution prescribed,

in

the further prosecution thereof.

Ordered, That the Committee of the County of Gloucester be continued, and they proceed to act in all cases as heretofore directed, until a

new

election.

good and all persons within this Colony are desired to aid and assist in the execution of such orders for that purpose as they may think proper to make. Ordered, That Stephen Crane, Lewis Ogden, and Caleb Camp, Esquires, be a Secret Committee to correspond and

divers persons in the

co-operate with the Secret Committee of the Provincial

themselves

the end of the terms severally before limited ; and that any of the said officers shall be liable to be dismissed when adjudged guilty of misbehaviour by the Council on an impeachment of the Assembly. XIII. That the inhabitants of each County, qualified to vote as aforesaid, shall, at the time and place of electing their Representatives, annually elect one Sheriff and one or more Coroners, and that they may re-elect the same person to such offices until he shall have served three years, but no longer; after which, three years shall elapse before the same person is When the election is certified to the capable of being elected again. Govemour or Vice-President, under the hands of six freeholders of the County for which they were elected, they shall be immediately commis-

tant of this Colony shall be denied the enjoyment of any civil right merely on account of his religious principles, but that all persons, professing a

;

sioned to serve in their respective

XIV. That

offices.

the Townships, at their annual

town meetings

for electing

other officers, shall choose Constables for the Districts respectively,

and

to hear and finally determine all appeals relative to unjust assessments in cases of publick taxation, which Commissioners of appeal shall for that purpose sit at some suitable time or times to be by them appointed and made known to the people by advertisements. XV. That the laws of this Colony shall begin in the following style, viz Jle it enacted by the Council and General Assembly of this Colony, and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same, That all commissions granted by the Govemour or Vice-President shall run thus The Colo/iy o^ New-Jerset, to A. B., iic, greeting. And that all writs shall likewise run in the name of the Colony. And that all indictments shall conclude in the following manner, viz Against the peace of this Colony, the Government, and dignity of the same. XVI. That all criminals shall be admitted to the same privileges of witnesses and counsel as their prosecutors are or shall be entitled to. XVII. That the estates of such persons as shall destroy their own lives shall not for that offence be forfeited, but shall descend in the same manner as they would have done had such persons died in a natural way; nor shall any article which may occasion accidentally the death of any one be henceforth deemed a deodand, or in anywise forfeited on account of such misfortune. XVIII. That no person shall ever within this Colony be deprived of the inestimable privilege of worshipping Almighty God in a manner agreeable to the dictates of his own conscience, nor under any pretence whatsoever compelled to attend any place of worship contrary to his own faith and judgment; nor shall any person within this Colony ever be obliged to pay tithes, taxes, or any other rates, for the purpose of building or repairing any church or churches, place or places of worship, or for the maintenance of any minister or ministry, contrary to what he believes to be right, or has deliberately or voluntarily engaged himself to

also three or

more judicious freeholders of good character

:

:

:

perform.

XIX. That there shall be no establishment of any one religious sect in this Province in preference to another, and that no Protestant inhabi-

Adjourned

Met

to three o'clock, afternoon.

according to adjournment.

Whereas

Congress has been given to understand that County of Monmouth have imbodied and opposition to the measures of Congress

this

in

;

belief in the faith of any Protestant sect, who shall demean themselves peaceably under the Government as hereby established, shall be capable of being elected into any office of profit or trust, or being a member of either branch of the Legislature, and shall fully and freely enjoy every privilege and immunity enjoyed by others their fellow subjects. XX. That the Legislative department of this Colony may as much as possible be preserved from all suspicion of corruption, none of the Judges of the Supreme or other Courts, Sheriffs, or any other person or persons possessed of any post of profit under the Government other than Justices of the Peace, shall be entitled to a seat in the Assembly, but that, on his being elected and taking his seat, his office or post shall be considered as

vacant.

XXI. That all the laws of this Province, contained in the edition lately published by Mr. Allinson, shall be and remain in full force until altered by the Legislature of this Colony, (such only excepted as are incompatible with this Charter,) and shall be, according as heretofore, regarded in all respects by all civil officers and others the good people of this Province.

the common law of England, as well as so much of the law as have been heretofore practised in this Colony, shall still re* law of the Legislature, such parts only excepted as are repugnant to the rights and privileges contained in this Charter, and that the inestimable right of trial by jury shall remain confirmed, as a part of the- law of this Colony, without repeal,

XXII. That

statute

main

in force until they shall be alteredby a future

forever.

XXIII. That every person who. shall be elected as aforesaid to be a of the Legislative CouticU or House of Assembly shall, previous Council or Assembly, take the following oath or

member

to his taking his seat in

" I, A. B., do solemnly declare that, as a member of the Legislative Council (or Assembly, as the case may be) of the Colony of I will not assent to any law, vote, or proceeding, which shall

affirmation, viz

:

A'eiV'Jersey,

appear to me injurious to the publick welfare of said Colony, nor that shall annul or repeal that part of the third section in the Charter of this

Colony which establishes that the elections of members of the Legislative Council or Assembly shall be annual, nor that part of the twenty-second section in said Charter respecting the trial by jury, nor that shall annul, repeal, or alter any part or parts of the eighteenth or nineteenth sections

And any person or persons who shall be elected as aforehereby empowered to administer to the said Members the said oath

of the same."' said

is

or affirmation.

Provided alicays, and il is the true intent and nifaiiiiig of this Congress, if a reconciliation between Great Britain and these Colonies should take place, and the latter be again taken under the protection and Government of the Crown of Great Britain, this Charter shall be null and void,

That

otherwise to remain firm and inviolable.

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JULY,

1639

1776.

1640

numbers have expressed their willingness upon assurances of pardon, alleging that they have been seduced and misled by the false and

being disafTected to the cause of the United Colonies, be brought to trial on Wednesday next, at three o'clock, after-

malicious reports of others It is therefore declared,

Resolved, That a number of the Militia in the County of Cape-May, not exceeding five-and-twenty, commanded by

are informed that

to return to their duty

:

That

all

such pci-sons as

shall,

without delay, return peaceably to their homes and conform to the orders of Congress, shall be treated with lenity and indulgence, and, upon their good behaviour, shall be restored to the favour of their country, provided that such as shall appear to have been the leaders and principals in

those disorders, who, to their other guilt, have added that of seducing the weak and unwary, shall yet be treated according to their demerits.

Adjourned

to

meet

Trenton, to-morrow morning, ten

at

o'clock. Trenton, FriJay, July 5, 1776.

noon.

one commissioned

officer,

be raised and stationed at the Point

of Cape-May.

Ordered, That IMr. Memucan Hughes be Commissary and Paymaster of the said detachment of Militia. It appearing to be absolutely necessary, in the present dangerous situation of publick affairs, that this Congress continue sitting; and many Members having been called away by a regard to their private affairs at this busy season of the year, others by an attention to their families in the neighbourhood of the enemy, and some (we are sorry to say) having wholly neglected their duty to the publick, by departing without leave Therefore, Ordered, That such Members as shall attend be empowered to transact any business which may arise and require immediate consideration, whether a sufficient number to con;

]\Iet

according to adjournment.

Isaac De Cow, Esq., having resigned his commission of Second Major of the First Regiment of Foot Militia in the County of Hunterdon, whereof Isaac Smith, Esquire, is Colonel

stitute a

quorum attend

Adjourned

;

Ordered, That

his resignation

or not.

to three o'clock, afternoon.

be accepted.

Ordered, That Colonel Joseph Borden do provide Wagons, and every other necessary, to accommodate the Rifle Battalion ol Pennsylvania, consisting of five hundred men, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Broadhead, in their march to Monmouth County, the place of their destination.

Met according

to adjournment.

Ordered, That Mr. Joseph King be Adjutant, and Mr. Joshua Gordon Regimental Quartermaster, of the Battalion to be raised in the Counties o( Sussex and iV/orm, under the command of Colonel Martin, destined to reinforce the Army at New- York.

Resolved, That the Artillery Company under the comof Captain Hugg be ordered to march immediately with their Artillery to New-Brunswick, and from thence to

Congress received a Letter from the Honourable President Hancock, enclosing the following Resolve

such place as General Livingston shall

tish Officers

mand

direct.

Letter from John Dennis, Esq., urging the necessity of removing the Officers and other Prisoners of War from the publick places in which they are at present, as the soldiers have been continually plotting with the Negroes, discouraging persons from inlisting in the Continental service, ridiculing the Congress, &;c. Ordered, That the President immediately write to the honourable Continental Congress, enclosing a copy of the

Letter from Mr. Dennis, and requesting their advice in what manner to dispose of the said Prisoners of War.

Adjourned

Met

to three o'clock, afternoon.

according to adjournment.

Ordered, That Commissions be made out

for the follow-

ing persons, officers in the Battalion ordered to be raised in the Counties of Somerset and Hunterdon, destined to reinforce the

Army

New-York

Richard Stites Captain, Lieutenant, Derick Lame Second Lieute-

at

:

Peter Loiv First nant, John Garrish Ensign, Jeremiah Dunn First Lieutenant, William Cummins Second Lieutenant, David Smalley

Ensign.

;

Petition from the

Township Committee of Piscataway,

setting forth, that certain disaftected persons and carried out of the said Township before

ing that this Congress would take

had been taken trial, and pray-

some order

whereupon. Ordered, That the President write the above subject.

therein,

was

;

Adjourned

till

to

General

Heard on

"

By

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

according to adjournment.

Ordered, That Mr. Cooper and Mr. Dick be a Committee to prepare the draft of a Bill to regulate the ensuing election.

Resolved, That the several persons appointed MusterMasters of the levies directed to be raised by the late Ordinance of this Congress, pay the said levies their subsistence

now

:

"

John Hancock,

President."

Ordered, That the above Resolve of the Continental Congress be forthwith carried into immediate execution, and that the necessary steps be immediately taken for that purpose.

Ordered, That the President do take the parole of honour of Mr. John Laivrence, o( Monmouth County, not to depart the house of Mr. Rensselaer Williams ; and if Mr. Lawrence should refuse to give the same, that the President order him to be confined under such guard as he may deem necessary.

Adjourned

to nine o'clock,

on

Monday

morning.

Monday, July

Met

8,

1776.

according to adjournment. application. Ordered,

parole of Mr.

Lawrence not

That the President take the to depart the Township of

Trenton, unless with leave of Congress.

A Petition from sundry Inhabitants of the Township of Alexandria, in Hunterdon County, praying that no Rlember that all publick of Congress may hold any post of profit accounts may be fairly stated and put on the Journals ; that the yeas and nays may also be inserted, Stc; read, and ordered a second reading. ;

Ordered, That the Commissioners send forward, without Camp-ketdes by them purchased for the use of General Heard's Brigade diat the Commissioners divide them to each Battalion, according to the directions of Gedelay, the

Heard ; and that they take receipts of the several Regimental Quartermasters for the number of Camp-kettles neral

delivered as aforesaid.

Also, Ordered, That they send forward the Lead, Flints, and Canteens, Knapsacks, Cartridge-paper, Brushes and Wires, and Intrenching Tools, by them purchased, to General Livingston's Brigade, to be by him disposed of as necessity

may

require.

Captain Charles Harrison having resigned

in Jail

on account of

his

commis-

sion,

Ordered, That

money. Ordered, That the Prisoners

order of Congress

;

Saturday, July 6, 1776.

Met

Resolved, That the Briin the

and Soldiers who are Prisoners, and now

Colony of Neiv-Jersey, be sent from thence to the Town of York, in the Colony of Pennsylvania ; and that the Convention, or Committee of Safety of New- Jersey, be requested to carry this Resolve into immediate execution.

On

Ordered, That the Treasurer for the Western Division do advance to the Wives of fVilliam Berths, Sergeant Willson, and Hugh MacLean, the sum of 25s., Proclamation money, per month, each which sum is to be stopped out of their pay in the hands of Captain Brearley.

read

" In Congress, July 5, 1776.

The Committee

his resignation

be accepted.

appointed to prepare a draft

for regula-

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JULY,

1641 tinf the ensuing election,

made Report which was

read,

;

and

ordered a second reading.

Adjourned

Richards and Dr. John Hicks, appreiiended and sent to this place pursuant to an order of General Washington, not

Town

to depart the

to three o'clock, afternoon.

1642

1776.

of Trenton, unless with leave of this

Congress.

Met

according to adjournment.

The Report

Ordered, That Robert Paierson, Esquire, be Surgeon's Mate to tlie Battalion directed to be raised in the Counties of Burlington, Gloucester, Salcrri', and Cumberland, under the command of Colonel Silas Ncwcomb.

The Memorial of Doctor Thomas Ewing, Surgeon to the Battalion under Colonel JSewcornb, setting forth that, not knowing what provision has been made of Instruments and use of the said Battalion, he had lain in, for present use, about £20 worth, relying on the credit of this Congress for the reimbursement of the money ; was read,

Medicine

of the Committee of Trenton, respecting read, and ordered a second reading.

Samuel Henry, was

Rcsolued, That General Livingston be directed to apprehend the person of the late Treasurer, John Smyth, Esq., and remove him, with the publick money in his hands, and such of his books and papei-s as relate to the Treasury, under guard, to Trenton.

Adjourned

three o'clock, afternoon.

till

for the

and ordered a second reading. Ordered, That Doctor Cornelim Baldwin be Surgeon to

Met

according to adjournment.

Ordered, That Samuel Franklin Parker be Major of the Battalion raised in the Counties oi Middlesex and Monmouth, destined to reinforce the Army at JSeiv-York, in the Brigade

the Battalion directed to be raised in the Counties of Hunterdon and Somerset, under the command of Colonel Stephen

under General Heard.

Hunt.

tined to reinforce the

Adjourned

till

Jacob Tice, Ensign

in

Captain Burrows' s Company, desat New-York, having refused to

Army

accept his appointment,

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

Ordered, That Jonathan Holmes be Ensign Tuesday, July

Met according

to

9,

1776.

adjournment.

Ordered, That

Colonel Brcese having resigned his commission of Colonel of the Third Battalion of Militia in the County of Monmouth, assigning for reason the great backwardness of the people, himself so indifferently attended on field days, and so few ready to turn out, hiding themselves and deserting their houses when called upon to defend the shore, Ordered, That his resignation be accepted.

Ordered, That Daniel Hendrickson, Esq., be Colonel of County of Mon-

in

the said

Company.

Mark Thompson,

First Battalion of Militia in the

Esq., be Colonel of the

County of

Susse,jc.

Pursuant to the Order of the Day, the Congress went into the examination of witnesses in support of the charges exhibited against certain disaffected persons apprehended in the County of Hunterdon by order of Congress. After hearing several witnesses, the further consideration thereof deferred

till

was

to-morrow morning.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

the Third Battalion of Foot Militia in the

mouth.

Thursday, July 11, 1776.

Letter from General Livingston, enclosing copies of Letters from General Washington and Major Duychinck ; read

and

filed.

Met

according to adjournment.

A

Letter from Adjutant-General Reed, informing Conhe had in charge from General Washington to acquaint this body that it being of the utmost importance to prevent any communication or correspondence with the

gress that

Letter from Lewis Ogden, Esq., read and filed. Letter from John Dennis, Esq., read and filed.

Adjourned

Met

to three o'clock, afternoon.

according to adjournment.

Mr. Symmes and Mr. Sergeant, appointed a Committee on Stephen Skinner. Esq., Captain Kennedy, INIr. Fairholm, Captain Turnbull, Philip Kearney, Michael Kearney, Dr. John Lawrence, Thomas Skinner, Isaac Bonnell, and William Hick, apprehended and removed to this place to wait

pursuant to an order of General Washirgton, and take their parole not to depart the Town of Trenton, unless with leave

enemy, and having, from many strong circumstances, just reason to suspect sundry pei-sons about Amboy would avail themselves of their situation to give intelligence and aid to the enemy, he deemed it necessary, for the safety of the publick, that they should be removed to places where they could have no opportunity of carrying such design into submitting it to the consideration of this House execution whether some general direction given on this head to the :

Committees, or General Officers, or both, is not absolutely necessary read, and ordered a second reading. ;

of Congress.

The above Committee make

report that they have taken

the parole of the above gentlemen, according to order.

Pursuant to order, John Lawrence, Esq., appeared before Congress, and was permitted to return home, on his parole to attend this House whenever called upon.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Wednesday, July

Met

10, 1776.

according to adjournment.

Ordered, That Captain William Gamble be directed to apprehend, and bring to this place. Captain Crow ; and that tliis Congress will defray the necessary expense arising thereon.

Congress resumed the examination of witnesses for and County of Hunterdon ; and after some time spent therein, adjourned the further examination till the afternoon. against certain disaffected pei-sons in the

Adjourned

Met

Letter from Abraham Clark, Esq., informing that four tons of Powder were ordered to be sent immediately on Continental account for the use of the Militia who march out to guard the Province until the Flying-Camp is formed, or for the use of the Flying-Camp, if not expended before they take the field read, and ordered to be filed.

to three o'clock, afternoon.

according to adjournment.

Congress resumed the examination of witnesses

for

and

against certain disaffected persons in the County of Hunterdon; and, having gone through the same, deferred the de-

termination thereof until to-morrow.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

;

The moved

John Hicks, apprehended and replace pursuant to an order of General Wash-

Petition from Dr. to this

ington, setting forth that he

is

a half-pay officer

is

;

desirous

of saving his half-pay, as he has a large family to support that he has not yet signed the Association, nor has been ever called

upon

for that

purpose

;

but, seeing the necessity of

the Colonies being united,

is determined that his half-pay be any restraint upon his future conduct; that he is ready to sign the Association, and to act in every respect agreeable to the Resolves of the honourable Continental Congress, praying that he may be permitted to return, as his affairs are suffering on account of his absence was read, and ordered a second reading. Ordered, That the President take the parole of John

shall not

;

Friday, July Vi, 1776.

Met

On

according to adjournment. the recommendation of General Livingston. JJllliam

Bott, Esq.,

is

appointed Adjutant-General of the Militia of

New-Jersey. It appearing that opposition to the drafts was made in Captain Groencndyck's Company, and George Updike and John Horpcnce having attended before Congress, upon a charge of being concerned, when no witnesses appeared to fix the charge upon any individuals. It is Ordered, That the Township Committee of Kingswood take cognizance of the offence of die people of tliat

Company.

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JULY,

1643

The

Ordered, That Lieutenant Howell, with two Privates, be directed to proceed immediately to Burlington,

and bring

Jail

under guard Thomas Okeson to Trenton.

Upon

the application of Dr. Beaumont to this Congress reimbursement of his expenses in transporting his baggage, &C.C., and for payment of his subsistence. Ordered, That Dr. Beaumont be informed that his application must be made to the Continental Congress.

The

Proceedings of the Committee of Amwell, in the respecting a certain William Steel, who has his residence in the County of Middlesex, but, being in the County of Hunterdon, was apprehended by order of the said Committee, being transmitted to this Congress and

;

read,

and ordered a second reading.

to three o'clock, afternoon.

Met according to adjournment. Upon the question, whether any

of the persons sent under be permitted to return, in order to remove their efiects to such place as Congress shall appoint for a limited time, upon their parole and security, if required ?

Amboy

guard from

It

was carried

in the affirmative, as follows, viz

County of Hunterdon,

read.

Ordered, That the said Steel be forthwith brought beWhereupon the said William Steel being House. brought before Congress, the proceedings of the Committee were read in his presence, and, being heard in his defence Ordered, That he be committed to the common Jail at Trenton. fore this

1644

Petition of Cornelius Williamson, a prisoner in the

of Trenton

Adjourned

for

1776.

YEAS. Mr. Drummond,

Mr. Cooper, Elmer, Dr. Bloomfield,

Dickenson, Mott, Josiah Holmes,

Mr. Learning, Quackenbush, Sinnickson, Shreve.

Combs,

NAYS.

The

Mr. Van Campen,

Mr. Sparks, Buck,

Mr. Condict, Woodhull, Covenhoven, Joseph Holmes,

Cripps,

Tallman.

Sergeant,

Congress resumed the consideration of the draft of a and after some time ;

Bill for regulating the ensuing election

spent thereon.

being represented to Congress that the levies in Salem County are obstructed for want of Arms, when, at the same time, there are in the County a sufficient number of Jersey Arms, which are the pubiick property of the County Therefore, Ordered, That the people of that County do It

supply such of the levies in the present Brigade as have been or may be raised in that County, with the pubiick Arms and that the County Committee be enjoined in their hands ;

to see this order properly executed.

Adjourned

Met

to three o'clock, afternoon.

A

Letter from Colonel Stephen Hunt, alleging want of health, and resigning his appointment in the Brigade under

A

his resignation accepted.

draft of a Bill for regulating the ensuing election

read the second time

;

was

and an amendment being moved,

no person be entitled to a seat in the Legislative Council Assembly unless he fii-st take the following test, &c. I, A B, do swear (or affirm) that I do not hold myself bound to bear allegiance to George the Third, King of Great Britain; that I will not by any means, directly or indirectly, oppose the measures adopted by this Colony, or the Contithat

or

"

nental Congress, against the tyranny attempted to be established over these Colonies by the Court of Great Britain

and that

ment

do and

will

bear true allegiance to the Govern-

established in this Province under the authority of the ;"

people

On

I

was

Ordered, That Mr. Michael Kearney have leave to reto Burlington, on his parole not to depart from thence further than six miles on the east side of Delaware till the further order of Congress. Ordered, That Philip Kearney have leave to remove, on his parole, to the dwelling-house of Mr. Richard Stevens, in the Township of Alexandria, and County of Hunterdon, or to Morristown, and not to depart from thence more than Ordered, That Dr. John Lawrence have leave to remove, on his parole, to Morristown, and not to depart from thence more than six miles without the leave of Congress. Ordered, That Mr. Johnston Fairholm have leave, on his parole, to reside dX Bordentown, or at Mr. Rutherford's, in Hunterdon County, and not to depart from thence, or from within six miles thereof, without leave. Ordered, That Mr. Bonnel and Mr. Thomas Skinner have leave, on their parole, to reside at Cranberry Town, and not to depart from thence, or from within six miles thereof, without leave. Ordered, That Captain Turnbull have leave, on his parole, to remove to Bordentown, and not to depart more than six miles from thence without leave. Ordered, That Mr. Hick have leave to return home, for the present, giving bond and security for his good behaviour,

carried in the affirmative, as fol-

Mr. Quackenbush,

Learning, Dr. Bloomfield,

Van Campen,

Dunn,

Cripps.

Mr. Combs,

Doctor John Hicks having come into Congress, and taken an oath to the present Government Ordered, That he have leave to return home.

WoodhuU, Paterson,

Hardenbergh, Linn,

Shaver, SinnicUson,

Sergeant,

NAYS. Mr. Drummond, Joseph Holmes,

Mr. Cooper, Elmer,

Mott, Sparks,

Harris,

Reynolds, Tallman,

Buck,

Shreve.

Ordered, That the above persons, before they remove to the places of their destination, have leave to remain at

After some time spent on the said Bill, the further consideration thereof was deferred.

Adjourned

till

two days,

in

Adjourned

till

morning, eight o'clock.

The Committee

Ordered, That Mr. Covcnhovcn, Mr. Mehelm, and Mr.

Petition of Dr.

John Hicks, setting be bound by oath to

forth, that

he

is

act in such manner as to give the fullest satisfaction that whenever the Militia is called out in defence of the country he will be ready to give his attendance as a Surgeon, or in any other station that may afford the most benefit ; and praying that he may be pemiitted to return to his family ; read, and ordered a second reading. willing, if required, to

to

1.5,

1776.

adjournment. appointed to examine into the state of made report, that they had waited

the Eastern Treasury,

Sergeant, be a Committee to examine into the state of the Eastern Treasury, and that they report thereon.

A

Monday

Monday, July

Met pursuant according to adjournment.

home

order to settle their business.

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Saturday, July 13, 1776.

Met

£500.

Mr. Dickenson, Josiah Holmee,

TEAS. Condict,

of

Ordered, That Mr. Stephen Skinner and Captain Kennedy have leave, on their parole, to reside at Morristown, and not to remove more than six miles from thence. Ordered, That Mr. John Richards have leave, on his parole, and security in the penalty of £1,000, to reside on his own farm, and not to depart more than two miles from thence without leave.

it

lows, viz: Mr. Camp,

Dr. Bloom-

move

in the penalty

the questioDj

to

six miles without the leave of Congress.

pursuant to adjournment.

General Heard; read, and

Ordered, That the same be recommitted Mr. Cooper, and Mr. Sergeant.

field,

;

upon Mr. Smyth, who had delivered

sum

of

£4,944

hands the also a contain a quantity of cancelled paper into their

19s. 6d., Proclamation

money; and

bag sealed, said to money. The Committee further report, that they have delivered the above sum of money and bag sealed, to John Stevens, Esq., as ordered by this House, to be by him deposited in the Treasury chest of this Colony, for which they have taken that Mr. Smyth, the Treasurer, had not his achis receipt ;

counts with him, but has returned home in order to collect his papers, and the moneys outstanding, upon his parole and

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JULY,

1645

promise to prepare himself for settlement in a short time,

and

to attend tlie further

order of this House.

Ordered, That Nehcmiah Wade, Esq., be Second Major of the Fii-st Regiment of Foot Militia in the County oi Essex, v/hereo( Edward Thomas, Esq., is Colonel. Ordered, That Dr. William Winans be Surgeon to the

now confined

1776.

1646

the common Jail o( Hunterdon, in pursuance of the adjudication of the Arnwell Committee, praying that he may have an immediate hearing read, and ordered to lie on the table.

son,

in

;

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

same Regiment.

Tuesday, July

The Committee

whom was

recommitted the draft of a which Bill for regulating the ensuing election, made Report was read, and, after sundry Amendments, agreed to, and ordered to be engrossed.* to

;

Resolved, (on the motion of the Members of the County of Sakm,) That the election in that County be by ballot, and that it be held at the Court-House in the Town of Salem, without removing from place to place, anything in the Ordi-

nance

for ascertaining the

modes and places of

election be-

fore contained to the contrary notwithstanding.

Adjourned

to three o'clock, afternoon.

Ordered, That the Deputy Quartermaster-General, Coloand his Assistants, be empowered, in case of ne-

nel Biddle,

Colony Baggage-Wagons and Horses for the service of the United States of North-America, paying a reasonable hire for their service while employed.

cessity, to impress within this

A

Letter from Adjutant-General Reed, informing that

Lord

Howe

A

Hook, and the necessity of

arrived at the

is

urging on, with

all

read, and ordered to

;

new

expedition, the

be

Samuel Wigton, a debtor confined in the Morris, setting forth that he was inlisted as a Sergeant in Captain Morris's Company, in the Battalion now

The

Petition of Cornelius Williamson, a disaffected per-

Ordinance for regulating the ensuing Election,

—Passed

July

1776.

Petition from

under the

Company debt,

Whereas, by the second section of the Constitution of this Colony, formed by this Congress, there is to be a Legislative Council and General Assembly elected by the good people of this Colony, on the second Tuesday in August next and, pursuant to the same Constitution, one Sheriff and one or more Coroners in each County ought, at the same time, to be elected and whereas it was thought proper not to fix or

command left

the

of Colonel Winds ; that before the said County of Morris, he was arrested for

and committed to the sums of money due

Jail

several

to

the Battalion aforesaid, which, to discharge his debts

;

oi Morris ; and that he has him from sundry persons in

when

;

mode of election, or the place where the said Council and Assembly shall meet, after they are so elected, but leave them to be ascertained by a distinct Ordinance of insert in the said Constitution either the places or

Congress

Resolved, therefore, That the places of election shall he as follows : In Bergen, at the Court-House in A'eTv-Barbadoes; in Essex, at the

Court-House in J\'e-wark ; in Jifiddlesex, at the Court-House in J^TeivSrunsTvick ; in Somerset, at the Court-House at Hillsborough ; in Morris, at the Court-House in JMorristoivn; in JMonmouth, at the CourtHouse in Freehold; in Nu/Uerdoti, at the Court-House in Trenton ; in Sussex, at the Court-House in A''e-wton; in Burlington, at the CourtHouse in the City of Burlington ; in Gloucester, at the Court-House in the Town of Gloucester ; in Salem, at the Court-House in the Town of Salem ; in Cumberland, at the Court-House in Bridgeto-wn ; and in Cape-May, at the Court-House in the Middle Precinct; and that the inhabitants of each County, entitled to vote for Representatives in the said Council and General Assembly, when met at the place of election, shall, between the hours of ten in the morning and one in the afternoon, choose three judicious freeholders to preside as Judges of the election; which Judges shall take an oath or affirmation before any Justice of the Peace for the faithful and impartial discharge of their duty; and the said inhabitants shall then proceed to elect such a number of Representatives in Council and Assembly as, by the said Constitution, they are entitled to elect; and also one Sheriff, and one or more Coroneis adjourning from day to day, and from place to place, (except in the County of Salem,) if it shall be thought necessary, pursuant to the Ordinance of the ;

Congress. And the certificate of the Judges, so as aforesaid appointed, together with six good and sufficient freeholders, shall be a sufificient testimonial of the election of any member of Council or " We do Assembly; the form of which certificate shall be as follows hereby certify, that on the day of the date hereof. A, B, and C were (or that A was in the certificate for a member of Council) duly elected to in the General Assembly of this Corepresent the County of lony, (or Legislative Council, as the case may require,) to be held at Princeton on the 27th of this insiant. Witness our hands and seals Provided always. That no person this. . . . day of August, 1776." or persons shall be entitled to a seat in Council or Assembly unless he or they so elected shall have first taken the following oath or affirmation, to wit: "I, A B, do swear (or affirm) that I do not hold myself bound to bear allegiance to George the Third, King of Great Britain ; that I will not, by any means, directly or indirectly, oppose the measures adopted by this Colony, or the Continental Congress, against the tyranny attempted to be established over these Colonies by the Court of Great Britain ; and that I do and will bear true allegiance to the Government

late Provincial

:

established in this Colony under the authority of the people."

And as it is highly unreasonable that the enemies oi America should be admitted to take an active part in our publick measures, no person or persons shall be admitted to vote at the said election, unless he first take the same oath or affirmation, if thereunto required by any one of the Judges or Inspectors of the said election; which oath or affirmation any one of the Judges aforesaid shall be empowered to tender and administer to

any or

either of the said electors.

manner aforesaid, truly and impartially to take the name and place of abode of each elector, and

the votes and set down to pell no voter who is

required so to be by any one or more of the Judges or Sheriff or Coroner shall be empowered lo act in his office until he shall be commissioned by the future Governour or Vice-President of the Colony, and shall be further qualified in such manner as the future Legislature of this Colony shall

not attested, IiiSpectore.

if

Provided always, That no

and appoint. And it is further Resolved, That the Legislative Council and Genera] Assembly, when so elected, shall, for the first time, meet at Princeton.

direct

the payment of his debts

that he

;

may have time for may be released from

may be ordered to join his BatCongress may think proper; and also a testimonial thereunder written, signed by sundry persons, in support of the facts contained in the said Petition read, and ordered to lie on the table. imprisonment, and that he talion, or

any other

this

Ordered, That Dr. William Burnet be added to the number of Commissioners for East New- Jersey, and that he have the like authority as is given to the Commissioners nominated in the

sum

Ordinance of the

late

Congress

for striking the

of £50,000.

Resolved, That the several Township Committees throughout this Colony do immediately exert themselves in procuring Lead for the use of the Army now engaged in our defence, as the demand for that article is very great and pressiiig ; that to this end they do forthwith collect all the leaden weights from windows and clocks, and all leaden weights of shops, stores, and mills, of one pound weight and upwards also all other Lead in and about houses, or other places and that they forward all the Lead which shall by ;

;

them be so collected to the hands o( Alexander Chambers, Abraham Hunt, David Pinkerton, and Jfllliam Tucker, of Trenton; Hendrick Fisher, o( Somerset County; Azariah Dunham, of New-Brunswick ; John Ross, of Woodbridge ; IsaacfVoodroof, oC Elizabethtoum ; and Dr. William Burnet, oi Newark ; or any of them. Commissioners appointed for purchasing Arms, &tc. And the said Commissionei-s are directed to pay for all such Lead, at the rate of 6d., Proclamation money, the pound weight; together with the reasonable expense that

Adjourned

Met

may

arise in

forwarding the same.

to three o'clock, afternoon.

according to adjournment.

Captain Kinney appeared before this House in consequence of the citation issued by this Congress for a charge of loitering on the road to Connecticut %\ ith the late Governour Franklin; and now, upon examining into the causes of complaint, it appears to this House that whatever delay arose thereon was inevitable, owing to no misconduct in Captain Kinney, but to accidental causes.

The Report of the Committee of Trenton, respecting Samuel Henry, was read the second time and Mr. Henry ;

' And that each person who shall be named as a candidate by any inhabitant entitled to vote shall be admitted to appoint one Inspector and one Clerk ; which Clerks, when so appointed, shall be sworn or affirmed in

recovered, are sufficient

praying that he

;

this

levies raising in this

filed.

Jail of

according to adjournment.

15,

1776.

16,

according to adjournment.

Colony

Met

*.-?«

Met

being duly notified, appeared before Congress against

him were

;

the charges

and the to-morraw morning.

read, several witnesses examined,

further hearing of the

same deferred

till

Whereas it has been represented to tliis Congress that Henry Cuyler, Esq., is so extremely indisposed as to render removal very dangerous Therefore, Ordered, That the Chairman of the Committee of Netcark take the parole, drawn in the usual manner, of Mr Cuyler, to remain for the present in his dwelling-house at Newark, or within two miles thereof, he giving bond, with

his

:

NEW-JERSEY PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, JULY,

1647

£1,000,

security, in the penalty of

ance of

for the faithful

Ordered, That Mr. Sergeant, Jlr. Hugg, and Mr. Elmer, be a Committee to draft an Ordinance for punishing Traitors and Counterfeiters of the Continental and Provincial

Adjourned

till

A

apprehend latal and melancholy consequences to themselves and families, and to the inhabitants in general, if they should be deprived of the assistance of Doctor i/fui'hourly

is

necessary to several patients now much indisposed, who will be left helpless if he be removed, as no other practitioner

he may be permitted to and oidered a second reading.

resides in that place, praying that

Amboy; was

Adjourned

to

read,

to

adjournment.

Resolved, That this House from henceforth, instead of the and title of the Provincial Congress oi New- Jeisey, do adopt and assume the style and title of the Convention of the State oi New- Jersey.

style

Ordered, That Colonel Isaac Smith be directed to employ officer of die Militia to apprehend Samuel Henry, and deliver him, together with tiie order of this Convention for his commitment, to the keeper of the common Jail at Tren-

some

ton.

two o'clock, afternoon.

The Report

Met according to adjournment. The Committee appointed to

for

draft an Ordinance for punishing Traitors and Counterfeiters, made report which was read, and ordered a second reading. :

The

force of Neiv-Jersey.

eight o'clock, to-morrow morning.

Thursday, July 18, 1776.

Met according

Petition from sundry Ladies at Pcrtk-Ainboy, setting

in

till

17, 1776.

according to adjournment.

rence's skill in his profession, as his attendance

will support the freeof the said States with our lives and

and with the whole

Adjourned

forth that they

remain

do resolve and declare, that we

bled,

dom and independence

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Wednesday, July

Met

clared the United Colonies free and independent States, we, the Deputies of New-Jersey, in Provincial Congress assem-

fortunes,

currencies.

1648

Whereas the honourable Continental Congress have de-

observ-

his parole.

1776.

George Woodward, setting fordi the distressed situation of the wife and children of Anthony Woodward, who has been hunted by bands of armed men, and driven, contrary to his intention, to the King's troops for shelter and protection, praying that he may return to his rank and station in the community; was read, and ordered a Petition of

of the Committee for drafting an Ordinance punishing Traitors, &ic. ; read a second time, and ordered

a third reading.

The Committee

to

whom

were

the Continental Congress, &c.,

referred the Resolves of

made Report

;

which was

and ordered a second reading.

read,

The Report

of the Committee for drafting an Ordinance read a third time. ;

for punishing Traitors, &ic.

Ordered, That the same be engrossed, and do pass.*

The Report of the Committee to whom were referred the Resolves of the Continental Congress, &tc. read a second time, and ordered a third reading. ;

second reading.

A

Letter from the Committee of Newark, requesting that Congress would procure, or order to be built, four Gondolas or Row-Galleys, mounted with cannon, to ply between the mouths of Passaick and HacJcinsack Rivers and PerthAmboy; also informing Congress that four persons were confined in the Jail of Essex, at the desire of the Secret Committee o[ Neiv-York, enclosing their examinations, and some affidavits concerning them, and requesting that this Congress

Adjourned

to three o'clock, afternoon.

this

would take some order therein was read. Whereupon, Ordered, That the said Examinations and Affidavits be referred to the Secret Committee appointed by this Con-

Met

On Hand,

according to adjournment. the question, whether William EUis, Esq., or Elijah

Esq., be Major of the Battalion of Militia to be raised

*JIn Ordinance for punishing Treason and Counterfeiting. July 18, 1776.

Whereas

it is

;

gress.

The Petition from sundry Ladies at Perth-Amboy was read the second time, and ordered that a copy of die following Letter, addressed to Mrs. Franklin, one of the subscribers,

be signed by the President, and sent:

I am ordered by Congress to acquaint you, and through you the other ladies o{ Amboy, that their Petition, in favour of Dr. John Lawrence, has been received and con-

Madam:

sidered.

to

Could any application have procured a greater indulgence Dr. Lawrence, you may be assured yours could not have But, unhappily, Madam, we are placed such a situation, that motives of commiseration to indi-

failed of success. in

viduals must give place to the safety of the publick.

As Dr. Lawrence, therefore, has fallen under the suspicion of our Generals, we are under the necessity of abiding by the steps which are taken and are, &,c. ;

Ordered, That Thomas Okeson be committed to the common Jail o( Hunterdon, the keeper whereof is hereby commanded to receive the said Okeson into his custody, and to keep him in close confinement until the further order of this Congress, or the future Legislature of this State.

Congress resumed the consideration of the Charges exSamuel Henry, and came to die following

hibited against

determination

Ordered, That Samuel Henry be committed to the comJail of Hunterdon, the keeper whereof is hereby com-

mon

manded and

to receive the said

Samuel Henry

into his custody,

keep him in close confinement until the further order of this Congress or future Legislature of this State. to

receive their due

—Passed

necessary, in these times of danger, that crimes should punishment and the safety of the people more espepersons who shall be found so wicked as to desire ;

cially requires that all

the destruction of good government, or to aid

and

assist the

avowed ene-

mies of the State, be punished with death Therefore be it resolved and ordained by this Convention, and it is resolved and ordained bi/ the authority of the same, That all persons abiding within this State of jVeio-Jersey, and deriving protection from the laws thereof, do owe allegiance to the Government of this State as of late established on the authority of the people, and are to be deemed as members of this State; and that all persons passing through, visiting, or making a temporary stay in this State, being entitled to the protection of the law during such passage, visitation, or temporary stay, during the same time owe allegiance to this Government. Jind be it further resolved and ordained, That all and every person or persons, members of, or owing allegiance to this Government, as before described, who, from and after the date hereof, shall levy war against this State within the same, or be adherent to the King of Great Britain, or others the enemies of this State within the same, or to the enemies of the United Stales of J\''orth .America, giving to him or them aid or comfort, shall be adjudged guilty of high treason, and suHer the pains and penalties thereof, in like manner as by the ancient laws of this State he or they should have sufl'ered in cases of high-treason. .Ind be it further resolved and ordained, That all and every person or persons, who, from and after the date hereof, shall be found guilty of reviling the Government of this State as by this Convention established, or of other seditious speeches or practices, shall be punished in like manner as by the former laws of this State such person or persons might or ought to have been punished for such seditious speeches and practices against the Government then in being. ,>lnd be it further resolved and ordained, That all and every person or persons, who, from and after the date hereof, shall be found guilty of counterfeiting or altering the Continental Bills of Credit, the Bills of Credit issued by the late Provincial Congress of this State, or the Assemblies, Conventions, or Congresses, of any of the United States of jVorth Jimerica, or uttering the same knowing them to be counterfeit or altered, shall be adjudged felons, and be punished with death, in like manner as persons found guilty of counterfeiting or knowingly altering the former Bills of Credit of this State might or should have been. Provided always, That no person or persons shall suffer death or other pains or penalties for any the ofl'ences aforesaid, until he or they shall have been first found guilty of the same offence or offences whereof he or they shall be charged and accused in a due course of law, and by the verdict of a jury.

Letter from the Honourable John Hancock, Esq., enclodition of two thousand of the Militia of this State to the Flying-Camp read, and referred to Mr. Mehelm, Mv. Ellis,

Provided also, That nothing in this Ordinance contained shall be conCommittee of the power they now possess of examining and committing any offenders, so that they do not proceed to the inlliction of punishments for any the offences in this Ordinance contained, but leave the same to be determined in due course of law in manner

and Mr. Paterson.

aforesaid.

sing Resolves of the Continental Congress, requiring an ad-

;

strued to divest any

,

NEW-JERSEY STATE CONVENTION, JULY,

1649 in

the Counties of Burlington, Gloiicesier, and Cumberland

It

was

carried as

?

commanded

to receive

him

1776.

1C.50

into his custody,

and keep

liim in

close confinement until the Turther Older of this Convention, or future Legislature of this State.

Ordered, That Colonel Joseph Borden be directed to officer of the Militia, witli such Guard as may

employ some

be necessary, to deliver Urury IVuke, Esq., toirether with the order of this Convention for his commitment, to the keeper of the

common

Jail

of Salem.

\\ herea.s Drury ^Fa/iTc, Esq., appeared before the County Committee of Burlington, on a charge of his bein" inimical to the liberties of this country; wliich

Committee,

after hear-

made an adjudication on Drury Wake appealed from

ing proofs and allegations,

charge, and the aforesaid adjudication of the said Committee to

said

the

Convention Resolved, therefore, That the said Drury Wake pay all the costs arising on the above prosecution, including the expense of taking him to the Jail of Salem, to be taxed by the this

:

County Committee of Burlington. Mr. William Smith appeared before the Convention upon him by the Committee of Woodbridge ; and after hearing and considering the several mattere alleged and proved relative to the said charge, this House are of opinion that no offence appears to have been made good against him, and do therefore discharge him from all further attendance on this House, or on said Committee, una charge exhibited against

NEW-JERSEY STATE CONVENTION, JULY,

1651

ance on this House, unless some new charge be made appear by which he shall be found guilty of some ofience against the State.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning,

six o'clock.

Saturday, July 20, 1776.

Met The

Samuel Henry, setUnghnh,

sirous of giving every reasonable satisfaction

that he in his

is

de-

power

that may obviate any prejudices remaining on the minds of the Convention that he is ready to make acknowledgments for any rash expressions that Convention may conceive he has been guilty of, and for every part of his conduct that that it is his fixed has been, in their opinion, exceptionable resolution so to conduct himself in future as to afford no furthat he is ready to give any secuther room for just offence and rity the Convention may think necessary to require praying that he may be released from his confinement Ordered, That for the contrition expressed in the above Petition, Samuel Henry be discharged from his confinement, ;

;

;

;

and have leave, on

his parole,

1652

that, through the interference of this House, he might have such permission. The Convention took the latter requisition under consideration, and agreed unanimously that the sending of flags

comes properly within the department of Brigadier-General Mercer, and that they could no further interfere on the occasion than to write a letter of introduction to the General in favour of Colonel Hendrickson.

according to adjournment. Petition of

1776.

drawn

in

the usual form, and

giving bond, with security, in the sum of £2,000, for the faithful performance of his parole to remove to his Mills in

Trenton, and there, or within a circle of two miles thereof, continue, and not to depart said bounds unless with leave of this Convention, or the future Legislature of this State.

The

Richard JVallcer, setting forth that a was bequeathed to him by his uncle, who resided in England, to be paid on the decease of his grandmother, who was living in the autumn of the year 1775; that if he should take up arms against the Kingdom of Great Britain he should lose the above legacy; and praying that he may be exempted from bearing arms against Petition of

legacy of

£900

sterling

the said kingdom, on engaging that he will not be concerned in any measures that may prove ruinous to the liberty or ,

interest of the

United States ; read, and ordered a second

reading.

Adjourned

Met

to three o'clock, afternoon.

according to adjournment.

Ordered, That Mr. Elmer be added to the Committee appointed to examine into the state of the Eastern Treasury. Ordered, That the Committee appointed

to

examine

the state of the Eastern Treasury proceed forthwith to boy; that they be, and hereby are, vested with

Ordered, That William Tucker, Esquire, of Trenton, be the Sheriff of the County of Hunterdon, until a Sheriff be chosen for said County at the ensuing election, and that a

Commission be made out accordingly.

Ordered, That Peter Tallman, Esq., Chairman of the County Committee of Burlington, be directed to take the parole of the Rev. Jonathan Odell, a person suspected of being inimical to American liberty; that he confine himself on the east side of Delaware River, within a circle of eight

and that the said Committee

aid such force as they

Order

may

into effect.

Agreed

that the

Commission of James Mount, Esquire, a

Field-Officer in the Third Battalion of the tia,

be,

to

INew- Brunswick, Monday, three o'clock

P.M. Monday, July

Met according to adjournment, morning, eight o'clock.

Adjourned

till

22, 1776.

to-morrow

and

it

hereby

according to adjournment.

Whereas the honourable Continental Congress have resolved, " That it be earnestly recommended to the Convention o( Neiv-Jersey to cause all the Stock on the seacoast, which they shall apprehend to be in danger of falling into the

hands of the enemy,

to

be immediately removed and

driven back into the country to a place of safety:"

And

whereas this Convention deem it necessary that the above Resolution should be carried into immediate effect, particularly in the County of Monmouth, which is at present most exposed to depredations: It is therefore unanimously resolved and directed, That the County Committee of Monmouth proceed, without delay, to

remove

danger of

all

may be in hands of the enemy, back into the

the Stock on their coast, which

falling into the

country, to a place or places of safety.

The Convention son, of Monmouth,

Monmouth

Mili-

revoked.

is,

Ordered, That Oake Wikoff, Esq., be Lieutenant-ColoDenice De.nice, Esq., First Major, and Hendrick Van Brunt, Esq., Second Major of the Third Battalion of Foot nel,

Militia in the

Adjourned

County of Monmouth. to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

till

Wednesday, July

Met

24, 1776.

according to adjournment.

A Letter from General Washington, informing that the Brigade under General Heard was far from being complete, and urging the necessity of raising and forwarding the new Army at New-York, was Whereupon, Ordered, That a Letter be written to General Washington, informing that several Companies were on their way to levies destined to reinforce the

read. Tuesday, July 23, 1776.

Met

call to their

think necessary to carry this

miles from the Court-House in the City of Burlington.

Adjourned

power

full

they should deem it necessary, Mr. Smyth, the Treasurer, to this place, with the Money in the said Treasury, and all the Vouchers, Documents, and other papers to bring, if

relative thereto;

Ordered, That the Commanding Officer of the Pennsylvania Troops now at or near Trenton be desired to apprehend Joseph Stansbury, a suspected person from Philadelphia, and transmit him safely to the Committee of Inspection of that City, who are requested to prevent his rambling through this State and prying into our unhappy situation.

into

Am-

being informed that Colonel Hendriclcat the door, and desired admittance.

was

Ordered, That he attend. Colonel Hendrickson informed the Convention that the Monmouth coast was exposed extremely to the incursions and depredations of the enemy, and requested that a Guard might be stationed along said coast, and maintained at the publick expense. He further informed the Convention that some of his Negro slaves had run off, and were on board the enemy's fleet that he had reason to believe he could recover the said slaves if he were permitted to send a flag, and requesting

join the Brigade,

and that

efforts to furnish

its

this

Convention

will use

its

utmost

quota, and to give his Excellency such

other aid as the weal of the United States the condition of this State will admit.

may require, and

Also Ordered, That a Letter be written to BrigadierGeneral Heard, desiring that he would, without delay, make return to the Convention of the number of men in the several Companies in his Brigade, and by what Counties those

Companies were

furnished.

The Convention

received a Letter from the War-Office,

of the 20th of July, referring to this Convention the propriety of Bryan Lefferty, Esq., his residing in New-Jersey, and

and security. Ordered, That Mr. Lefferty do sign his parole as settled by Congress, and give security in the sum of £1,000, to depart hence to the house of the Widow Lefferty, in the Township of Bedminister, in Somerset County, and there to remain, or within a circle of four miles thereof, until he have to take his parole

leave to the contrary.

Ordered, That Dr. William Winants be Surgeon to the Battalion directed to be detached from the Militia

in

the

Counties of Bergen, Essex, and Morris, under the command of Colonel Thomas, destined to reinforce the Flying-Camp. Ordered, Tiiat Dr. John Hammcll be Surgeon's Mate to the Battalion directed to be raised in the Counties of Bergen, Essex, and Burlington, whereof Philip Van Cortland, Esq., is Colonel, under the command of General Heard, destined to reinforce the

Army

at

New-York.

NEW-JERSEY STATE CONVENTION, JULY,

1653

Ordered, That Dr. Bodo Otto, Jan., be Surgeon to the Battalion directed to be detached from tlie Mihtia in the Counties of Burlington, Gloucester, and Cumberland, to be under the command of Colonel Charles Read, destined to

Flying-Camp.

reinforce the

Ordered, That Mr. Tallman, Dr. Bhomfield, and Mr. Frelinghwjscn, be a Committee to draft a Bill for amending the Militia Ordinance.

Adjourned

Met

to three o'clock, afternoon.

according to adjournment.

Agreeable to Certificate of Election, Ordered, That Jacob Vandervtnter be Captain, and Abraham Terhune First Lieutenant, of a Company in the First Battalion of Militia in Middlesex County.

Whereas

the Independent

Essex, under the

command

Company

of Captain

the County of

in

Drummond,

by reason of promotion and otherwise and whereas it is inexpedient to take from other Companies in order to add to or keep up the proper number of the said Independent Company: greatly reduced

/;;

is

;

therefore agreed unanimously.

That

the said

Com-

pany be forthwith dissolved, and be incorporated with the other Militia in the several Companies in the Districts in which they respectively Adjourned

till

reside.

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Thursday, July 25, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment.

Ordered, That Dr. Bhomfield, Mr. Drummond, Mr. Quakenbush, Mr. Ogden, and Mr. Brown, be a Committee to consider the propriety of building or purchasing of four

Gondolas or Row-Galleys, mounted with cannon, to ply between the mouths of Passaick and Hackinsack Rivers and Perth-Amboy.

Richard Stites, Esquire, Captain of a Company in the County of Somerset, resigned his commission, assigning for reason, that he was appointed to raise a Company in the Brigade under General Heard ; and that he had removed out of the Township in which his Company resides Ordered, That his resignation be accepted. Micajah Dunn, Esquire, Lieutenant-Colonel of the First Regiment of Foot Militia in the County of Middlesex, resigned his commission, assigning for reason, that he is so far advanced in life, and of so infirm a state of health, as to render it impossible for him fully to discharge the duty of his station :

Ordered, That

his resignation

be accepted.

Ordered, That Jonathan Deare, Esquire, be LieutenantColonel, and John Dmm, Esquire, First Major, of the First Battalion of Foot Militia in the County of Middlesex.

The Convention

;

;

contrition for his offence

:

agreed, unanimously,

It is

instant, informing that

to a resolution to increase the

the said John Hortwick and restored to the good

That

be forgiven, received into favour, opinion of his countrymen.

late Provincial Congress, of the County Committee of Bergen either to receive pay for the Arms taken by Captain Meeker, or to have them replaced And whereas the said Committee have made choice of accepting pay for the Arms, of which

Whereas, by a Resolution of the

was

in the election

:

appears there were seventy-nine stand Therefore, It is Ordered, That either of the Treasurers of this State pay Johannes Demarest, Esquire, Dr. Abraham Van Boskirk, and Jacobus Post, Esq., or any of them, perit

:

sons authorized by the

Committee

for that

purpose, the

sum

of £355 105., Proclamation money, being the amount of the aforesaid seventy-nine stand of Arms, at the rate of £4 \0s. apiece ; and that the receipt of the above-named persons, or any of them, shall be a sufficient voucher for that sum.

The Committee of Inspection for the City of New- Brunswick, having referred the case of John Brown and Jacob Neifies, persons employed by John Hortwick to purchase some Provision for the Asia ship of war, to this Convention, the same was considered accordingly; it appearing that the said John Brown and Jacob Neifies procured the said Provision solely with design to assist the said

neighbour,

in his distress,

and not

to aid the

Hortwick, their enemies of this

country; that they have manifested due contrition for their offence, and requested forgiveness therefor: It is, therefore. Ordered, That the said John Brown and

Jacob Neifies be forgiven, received into favour, and restored good opinion of their countrymen.

to the

Adjourned

Met

to three o'clock, afternoon.

according to adjournment.

Ordered, That the Committee of the Township of Hillsborough, in the County of Somerset, do leave in the hands of Mr. Isaac Brokaw, Clockmaker, thirty pounds weight of Lead, he having represented to the Convention that he could not carry on his trade without such quantity.

Adjourned

till

eight o'clock to-morrow morning.

received a Letter from the Honourable

John Hancock, Esq., dated the 22d Congress had come

Convention, the same was taken under consideration and it appearing by a testinionial of the said Committee that the aforesaid John Hortwick has always been esteemed as a good citizen, and a hearty friend to this country; that he is a military associator, and as such has turned out on all occasions when required and this Convention being of opinion that he was induced to trade with the Captain of i\k Asia ship of war to fulfil an oath which had been exacted from hirri by the said Captain, and to regain the liberty of hirn^^elf and sons, and not with any intention of abetting the enemies of America ; and that he has manifested a becoming degree of

it

has been

1654

1776.

Saturday, July 27, 1776.

Met according

to

adjournment.

Flying-

desired to

Agreeable to Certificate of Election, Ordered, That David De Groot, Esq., be Captain of a Company in the First Battalion of Foot Militia in Somerset County, whereof Stephen Hunt, Esq., is Colonel.

to be detached pursuant to the late requisition of Congress,

The Memorial of Jerome Vanderbelt, of the City of iN'ej»Brunswick, setting forth, that two of his apprentices had inlisted in the Brigade under General Heard ; that he is a hearty friend to his country; that he cannot well carry on and praying his business without the aid of one of them the influence of this House that one of his said apprentices may be returned read, and ordered to lie on the table.

For this purpose, that the State o( New-Jersey is augment its quota with three Battalions of Militia in addition to those formerly desired by Congress, and send them, with all possible despatch, to join the Flying-Camp Whereupon, Ordered, That a Letter be written to Congress, informing that Convention had ordered two thousand of its Militia

Camp.

which are

to

Adjourned

be renewed monthly.

;

to three o'clock, afternoon.

;

Met according to adjournment. The Committee appointed to prepare ing the Militia Ordinance, made Report

Ordered, That Captain John Cook, of Mon?nouth, be a draft for amend;

which was read,

and ordered a second reading. Ordered, That Captain Peter Gordon be Brigade-Major of the Brigade under the command of General Heard, and that he continue Captain of the Company under his command in the Battalion whereof David Forman, Esq., is

directed to take to his assistance as many of the ^lilitia as he shall find necessary, and apprehend any persons whom he has reason to suspect of inlisting, or being inlisted for the

British

Army, and to take them before Monmouth, who are required

mittee of

County Comcommit or dis-

the to

chari'e such accused persons as they shall find necessary.

Adjourned

to three o'clock, afternoon.

Colonel.

Adjourned

till

Met

to-morrow morning, nine o'clock. Friday, July 26, 1776.

Met according to adjournment. The Committee of Inspection for

Resolved, That General Mercer, in conjunction with the Committee of Perth-Amboy, or such of them as can be readily

the City o{ New-Bruns-

wick, having referred the case of Mr. John Hortwick to

this

according to adjournment.

convened, do take immediate steps

for

removing

disaffected or suspicious pereons in that City as their situation, be thought

dangerous to

tlie

all

such

may, from

publick cause

NEW-JERSEY STATE CONVENTION; AUGUST,

1655 especially such as

have

relations or

connexions among

the

and not depart the

said

1776.

1656

bounds unless with' leave of

Convention, or the future Legislature of

enemy. Adjourned

to three o'clock, afternoon, on

Monday

Ordered, That a copy of the following Letter be signed by the Vice-President, and sent to Colonel WetheriU:

next.

Monday, July 29, 1776.

Met according

to

this

this State.

Sir

adjournment.

:

The Convention lately entered

Jacob JVardell, Joseph tVardell, and Peter Wardell, persons apprehended by a detachment of the Monmou^A Militia on account of furnishing the enemy with Provision, were

brought before the House, and witnesses examined in support of the charge Ordered, Tiiat tiie determination thereof be deferred till to-morrow.

Ordered, (upon the complaint and representation of the

Committee of the Western Precinct of Somerset County,) That Joseph Stockton be committed to the common Jail of Somerset, the keeper whereof is hereby commanded to receive him into his custody, and to keep him in close confinement until the further order of this Convention, or future

into certain Resolves,

immediate detaching a brigade of two thousand of the Militia of this State to join the Flying-Camp a copy of which has been transmitted to you. The present alarming exigencies require the utmost derequiring

tiie

;

spatch reasons

we are perfectly at a loss for your ; not exerting yourself in making the detachment

in this service in

ordered from your Regiment and we must desire you will explicitly inform us thereof by the bearer. ;

Letter from the Convention of the State o( enclosing the Affidavit of Balthazar

De Hart,

New-York,

Esq., respect-

ing certain inhabitants of that State, who have either given, countenance and aid to our enemies, or have deserted its defence at this dangerous crisis ; read and filed.

Adjourned

to three o'clock, afternoon.

Legislature of this State.

Adjourned

till

Met

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

according to adjournment.

Convention resumed the consideration of the charge against Jacob JVardell, Joseph Wardell, and Peter Wardell; and, after

some time spent

therein.

Ordered, That Jacob Wardell be committed to the custody of the Sheriff of Momnou^A, to be by him safely kept until discharged by this Convention, or delivered by due course of law.

Ordered, That Joseph Wardell and Peter Wardell be discharged on giving bond, each, with security, in the sum of £500, for their future good behaviour, and for their appearance when called upon by the Convention, or future Legislature of this State.

The County Committee

o[ Monmouth

are directed to take the said bond, and to judge of the security.

Ordered, That Jacob Wardell pay £28 Is. Ud., Proclamation money, being the expense of apprehending and bringing him before this Convention, and conducting him to the Sheriff of

;

Ordered, That Thomas Hutton be employed, at the rate of one Dollar a day, to search for Lead and Sulphur Mines, and Flint Quarries, and make report in three weeks.

and Resolve, That Christopher Vaught be of £100, John Vaught in the sum of £100, Joseph Lee in the sum of £ 100, Thomas Buskirk in the sum of £12, Philip Cool in the sum of £72, William Thatcher

sum

sum of £60, Christopher Diltz in the sum of £10, and Frederick Frittz in the sum of £73, Proclamation money; and that the above persons be committed until they pay, or give security for the payment of the sums in which they are respectively amerced. Ordered, That the above Fines be appropriated towards defraying the costs and expenses which accrued in apprehending and bringing the said disaffected persons to justice. in the

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

late Treasurer, the

sum of £6.101

2s.,

besides a bag, sealed, said to contain bills

cancelled

;

all

Thursday, August

1,

1776.

Met

according to adjournment. Letter from the Rev. Mr. Odell, praying, for certain reasons, that he may be excused from signing the parole heretofore ordered, and offering a new parole, binding himself not to hold any political correspondence with the ene-

A

my, or to furnish them with provisions or intelligence read. Whereupon, the Convention having taken the same into ;

consideration, to the

to adjournment.

The Committee appointed to examine into the state of the Eastern Treasury, made report, that, including the money by them received at Trenton, as by their former Report, they had received in the whole from John Smyth, Esq., the Proclamation money,

£4,819

5s. 9d., like

which they have deposited

in

the hands of the Honourable John Stevens, Esq., to be by him kept in the Province chest, agreeable to the order of

Convention, as by his receipts appears ; and that by the accounts of Mr. Smyth herewith exhibited, there appears to be due from Mr. Smyth to the State a further balance of £930 6s. 6d., like money, exclusive of Loan-Office money

this

not yet signed or disposed of. Ordered, That the said Report be received, and the counts

Do Order

fined in the

Ordered, That Mr. Odell sign the original parole sent Committee of Burlington.

to three o'clock, afternoon.

Met pursuant

money, of

to the said charges.

Monmouth.

The Cominittee to whom was referred the Letter from the Committee of Newark respecting the building or purchase of four Gondolas or Row-Galleys, to ply between the mouths oiPassaick and Hackinsack Rivers and Perth- Amboy, made Report which was read, and ordered a second reading.

Adjourned

This Convention having heard the charges exhibited Christopher Vaught, John Vaught, Joseph Lee, Thomas Buskirk, Philip Cool, William Thatcher, Christopher Diltz, and Frederick Frittz, disaffected and dangerous persons, apprehended by order of Convention, and considered the several matters alleged and proved relative against

Tuesday, July 30, 1776.

Met

according to adjournment.

The Report of the Committee to whom was referred the Letter from the Committee o( Newark respecting the building or purchase of Gondolas, &ic.; read the second time. Ordered, That the same be referred to the Continental Congress, and that Mr. Ogden and Mr. Sergeant draft a Letter for that purpose. Ordered, That Mr. Camp, Mr. Hand, and Mr. Holme, be a Committee to settle the Accounts and pay ihe several detachments of Militia of this State which were lately called out at the requisition of General Washington ; that they immediately advertise their appointment and that they, or any one of them, have power to draw for the money needed upon the Treasurei-s, who are required to pay the same. ;

Adjourned

Ac-

Met

to three o'clock, afternoon.

according to adjournment.

filed.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock. Wednesday, July ai, 1776.

Met according

to adjournment.

Ordered, That Chevalier Jouet have leave, on his parole, drawn in the usual manner, and on giving bond, with security, in the sum of £1,000, for the faithful performance of his parole, to remove to the dwelling-house of Mr. llldte, Innkeeper, in Barnard's Town, in the County of Somerset, and there, or within a circle of four miles thereof, remain,

On motion, Resolved, That Thomas Skinner and Isaac Bonnell, Esquires, he released from their present parole, and be entitled to all the rights and immunities of others the good subjects of this State, on taking an Oath, the Test which is inserted in the Election Ordinance.

Ordered, That Mr. Linn be added to the Committee appointed to settle and pay the Accounts of the several detachments of Militia, he. it be recommended to the County ComMonmouth, and to the several Township Commit-

Resolved, That mittee of

NEW-JERSEY STATE CONVENTION, AUGUST,

1657

1776.

1658

tees

Committees be empowered

they

hands of the relations or friends of such absconding persons, taking such security as tiicy may think proper for the return thereof, or of the value.

and Colonels of the Battalions in the said County, that assist Captain fVikoff by furnishin;;; him with Arms for his levies in General Heard's Brigade, as far as they may It is be able, to expedite the equipment of the said levies. further recommended to the said Committees and Colonels, that Captain JVikoff be furnished with such of the Arms and Accoutrements taken from non-Associators, &c., within their bounds, as may be fit for service, he giving sullicient vouchers on receiving the said Arms. Ordered, That Philip Johnston, Esq., be Colonel, Joseph Phillips, Esq., Lieutenant-Colonel, and Piatt Batjles Major,

of the Battalion raised in the Counties of

Hunterdon and

Somerset, in the Brigade under the command of General Heard, destined to reinforce the Army at New- York.

Ordered, That the several Battalions in the Brigade under General Heard take rank according to the date of the commissions of the Colonels diat the several Companies in each Battalion in said Brigade take rank according to the date of the commissions of the Captains ; and that the rank of all the Officers be regulated according to the date of their ;

any part of the

to leave

said

Es-

states in the

The Convention resumed the consideration of the draft prepared by the Committee for amending the Militia Ordinance, and recommitted it to the same Committee. The

Petition of sundry persons in the

Monmouth;

Second Battalion of read the second time, and referred to the same

Committee.

The Memorial ting forth, that he

of Captain Hankinson, of Monmouth, sethad raised a Company of Minute-men, to

space of two months, agreeable Committee of Safety; that the said Company had been called to the Hook on the arrival of General Howe; and praying that the said Company may be paid for such service, an account of which accompanied continue

in service for the

to the directions of the late

the aforesaid Memorial

read,

;

and referred

to the

Commit-

tee of Accounts.

Adjourned

to-morrow morning, eight o'clock.

till

several commissions.

John Wetherill, Esq., Colonel of the Second Battalion of Foot Militia in the County of Middlesex, having informed Mr. Combs, a Member of this House, that he was not able to perform the duty of his office, owing to his indisposition and advanced age, and was desirous of resigning his commission, if agreeable to Convention Ordered, That the said resignation be accepted. :

Azariah Dunham, Lieutenant-Colonel of the Second BatFoot Militia in the County of Middlesex, having informed a Member of this House that, as he is engaged in

Saturday, August

Met

3,

1776.

according to adjournment.

Ordered, That the County Committee of Essex proceed and determine the charges exhibited against the four persons apprehended by order of the Secret Committee of the State of New-York, who remained confined in the common Jail of that County on the 24th day of July last; and that they be vested with full power to acquit, amerce, or to hear

talion of

imprison said persons.

the office of Commissary, he cannot discharge the duty of

to whom was referred the draft of an Oramending the Militia Ordinance, made Report; which was read, and ordered a second reading.

his military office, and that he was desirous of resigning his commission, if agreeable to Convention Ordered, That his resignation be accepted. :

Ordered, That John Neilson, Esq., be Colonel, and John Duychinck, Esq., Lieutenant-Colonel of the Second Battalion of Foot Militia in the County o( Middlesex.

Adjourned

till

to-morrow morning, eight o'dock. Friday, August 2, 1776.

Met

Ordered, That John Dunn, Esq., be Major of the Battalion detached from the Militia of the Counties of Middlesex, Monmouth, and Salem, destined to reinforce the FlyingCamp, in the room of Alajor Duyckinck, who was appointed to that command but refused to accept of it. Ordered, That Robert Hoops, Esq., be Brigade-Major of the Militia of this State under Brigadier-General Dickenson. Ordered, That Reuben Potter be Second Major of the First Battalion of Foot Militia in the County of Middlesex. Ordered, That Captain John Sherrerd be required to apprehend Peter Cyphers, and bring him forthwith before this Convention in custody.

amending the Militia Ordinance was read a second time, and referred to further consideration.

The Foot

draft for

Petition of sundry persons in the First

Militia in the

ther Regulations

was

read,

respecting the Militia, k,c.,

and ordered a second reading.

Adjourned

Met

Regiment of County of Monmouth, praying that fur-

may be made

for

The Petition of Ebcnezer Foster, now on his parole at Barnard's Town, praying that he may be permitted to return to his farm at fVoodbridge ; read, and ordered to lie on the table.

The Letter of John Duyckinck, Esq., appointed Lieutenant-Colonel of the Second Battalion of Foot Militia in the County of Middlesex, enclosing his commission, with a re-

to three o'clock, afternoon.

The Report

be accepted.

Resolved, That the several County Committees in this State do cause Inventories and Appraisements to be made of the Estates, real as well as personal, of all such persons within their respective bounds as have or shall have absconded from their homes and joined themselves to the enemies of this State, causing all perishable articles to be sold, and the all

whom was

referred the

lows, viz

YEAS, Mr. Quackenbush,

Mr. Linn,

Mr. Ogden, Drake,

Taylor, Josiah Holmes,

WoodhuU,

Brown,

Frelinghuysen, Paterson,

E. Clark,

Shaver, Shinn,

Hand,

Diet

Hardenbergh,

Dr. Bloomfield,

NATS, Mr, Combs, John Holmes.

Mr. Elmer, Buck,

Mr. Joseph Holmes, Mott, Sparks,

Bowen,

Thomas Skinner and Isaac Bonnel, Esqs., appeared before Convention, and took, on oath, the Test inserted in the Election Ordinance, WhereupOHj Ordered, That they be released from ihejr parole, and be entitled to all the rights and immunities of others tlie good

Met

and

be accepted.

of the Committee to

;

Letter

arising therefrom,

read.

of an Ordinance for amending the Militia Ordinance, read the second time and after sundry Amendments, on the question. Whether the same do pass? It was carried as fol-

Adjourned

moneys

was

draft

Guiscbert Guisebertson, Captain of a Company in the Second Battalion of Foot Militia, in the County of Monmouth, having resigned his commission for reasons mentioned in his his resignation

;

his resignation

subjects of this State,

according to adjournment.

Ordered, That

same

signation of the

Ordered, That

according to adjournment.

The

The Committee

dinance

other the

Goods and Estates

of such persons, that they keep in safe and secure custody until the further order of this Convention, or the determination of other proper judicature : Provided, That the said

to

Mondat/ afternoon,

five o'clock.

Monday, August

A

5,

1776.

according to adjournment.

sufficient

number of Members not

to three o'clock

attending, adjourned

to-morrow afternoon. Tuesday, August

Met according

to

6,

1776.

adjournment.

Ordered, That Doctor Jacob Jennings be Surgeon to th^ Battalion directed to be detached from the Militia in the Counties of Somerset, Hunterdon, and Sussex, to be under the

command

force the

The

of Colonel

Mark Thompson, destined

to rein-

Flying-Camp.

Representation of the County Committee of

iT/o?j-

NEW-JERSEY STATE CONVENTION, AUGUST,

1659

mouth, respecting the removal of the Stock on the sea-coast, &:c.; read, and ordered a second reading.

John Carey, Esq., and Mr. Ephraiin Lloyd, from the CounRemonstrance to this Convention

ty of Salem, presented a

1776.

1660

same may be re?cinded, and that the ensuing elecCounty may, in every respect, be carried on in the same manner as ordained by Convention for all the that (he

tion in said

other Counties It

(being duly authorized for that purpose) against the Reso-

is

in this State therefore Resolved, That the election of

Members

to

House the 1.5th day of July last, directing that the election in that County be by ballot, and tliat it be held at the Court-House in the Town of Salem, without removing from place to place, &.C., and requesting

serve in Legislative Council and Assembly of this State for the County of Salem, and also of one SherifT and one or more Coroners for said County, to be held on the second Tuesday of this instant August, be conducted in ihe same

read, and ordered a

manner, and governed by the same regulations as are prescribed and ordained by this Convention for all the other

lution

which passed

this

that the said Resolution be rescinded

;

second reading.

Counties

Letter from General Dickenson, read.

lution,

Agreeable to Certificate of Election,

Salem, to the contrary notwithstanding.

Ordered, That Abraham Johannes Blnuvelt be Captain, D. Blauvelt First Lieutenant, Guilliam Bogart Second Lieutenant, and Jolm Z/O^ier Ensign, of a Company of Foot Militia in the Township of i/am/ig-tora and County of Bergen.

Adjourned

Cornelius

Letter from the County Committee o( Bergen, informing some of the Powder lately sent to that County by this

that

Convention was damaged and wholly unfit for use, and praying that this Convention would take direction therein, and order the deficiency to be made up read, and ordered a second reading. ;

Letter from Colonel Thomas, enclosing a Letter from Mr. Bott, informing that a certain Caleb Iletfield dissuaded the Militia from turning out under Colonel Thomas, and even offered a bounty to restrain and

keep them back

;

disaffected pei-sons in his

said Johnes

;

Adjourned

read, till

Company, one

of

whom

Adjourned

Met

to three o'clock, afternoon.

according to adjournment.

Letter from General Washington, of the 8th Instant

and

read,

A

filed.

Petition of sundry persons in the South interposition of this

Company

to the choice of Officers in a

manded by Captain Jacob Pyatt; Wednesday, August?, 1776.

Met

The Representation

of the

Township Committee of Woodthe Third Bat-

in

Ward

of

House

iVeti V t^ nr J ]\i i> ferwith General ffasftmp-^on, Major-General CfOto, and Bri* ^ .1 J. i,f,D. /r . gadier-General Mifflin, upon the most speedy and effectual means for supporting the American cause in Canada. The Members chosen Mr. Harrison, Mr. R. H. Lee, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. Rutledge. c

24, 1776.

1

1

1

1

F.Lee.

1682

be referred to a Committee of three. chosen Mr. Wldrink, Mr. Gtrnj, " and it

:

Resolved, as the opinion of this Congress, That Jnmex McKiiight ought to restore to the ownci-s the money found on board the Sloop Sutli/, and also the effects, or the moneyhe received for the effects, on board the said Sloop, at ihe time till""-- Ti-j she was vYUT luii run Kill on sijuii;, shore, uiiu and lui for the ir e wrecK, wreck,, lacK tackle, ^-^f-^, e. -iiiu and anu r,, ,.„;,„,.„ „f „,-i ci„„ i-i nlurmture ol said .*5loop which efiecls, wreck, tack e. and .

were sold, or pretended him, the said James McKmght. furniture,

be sold, or secreted, by

to

:

Resolved, the

That the Committee appointed

making Fire-Arms be directed

to contract for

to order the

Manager of

the Continental Factory of Fire-Arms at Lancaster, and the

Ordered, That General Washington attend in Conoress tomorrow. The several matters to this day referred, being postponed, Adjourned to ten o'clock, to-morrow.

Manager of the Gun-Lock Factory

at Trenton, to deliver to Colonel Shee,oi his order, all the Muskets and Gun-Locks that each of them may have ready ,'in order to the more expeditious arming the Continental Battalion under his com-

mand. That the

said Committee be directed to bring in a Resopromoting and encouraging the making of good Fire-Arms.

lution for

A

Congress, and read.

laid before

Seport of the Gold Committee, (Messrs. DvAKi., Wythe, J. Adams, Sherman, Hewes, Jounson, Whipple, and Jeffebson.)

The Comraiuee

appointed on the 19th .^prii to ascertain the value of the several species ot Gold and Oliver current in these Colonies, and the proportion they and each of them bear and ouffht to bear to spa7ush milled Dollars, have taken the same into consideration, and thereupon came to the following Resolutions Whereas the holders of Bills of Credit emitted by authority of Congress will be entitled, at certain periods appointed for redemption thereof, to receive out of the Treasury of the United Oolonies the amount of the said Bills in Spanish milled Dollars, or the value thereof in Gold or Siiver; and the value of such Dollars, compared with other Silver and with Gold Coins, is estimated by different standards in different Colonies, whereby injustice may happen in some instances to the pubiick as well as to individuals, which ought to be remedied And whereas the credit of the said Bills, as current money, ought to be supported by the inhabitants of these Colonies, for whose beneht they were issued, at the full value therein expressed, and who stand bound to redeem the same, according to the hke value ; and the pernicious artifices of the enemies of American liberty to impair the credit of the said Bills, by raising the nominal value of Gold and Silver, ought to be guarded against and prevented: There:

Resolved, That the several Gold and Silver Coins passing in the said Colonies shall be received into the pubiick Treasury of the continent, and paid out in exchange for Bills emitted by authority of Congress, when the same shall become due, at the rates set down in the foUoiving table :

Weight.

English Guinea French Gumea Johannes Hall Johannes

Spani^h Pi^tole

Flench Pislule Duub'oon iMoidore

English Crown

French Crown English Shilling Spanish Milled Dollar

,

from Mrs. Abi. Grant was

May

laid before

24, 1776.

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 Prewhere she shall choose

sident give her a Passport to the place

embark.

to

Letter from Charles Miller to Joseph Trumbull, Esq.,

Commissary-General, was *

Friday,

A Letter

The Committee

for

superintending the Treasurj', to

whom

was

referred the

Zen,

of Lieuteiiant-Colonel Warner's Battalion, brouirht Report, which was agreed to

Account and Claim of Captain Heman Al-

their

in

:

Whereupon, Resolved, that there be allowed to Captain rj aii ur t r^ t-» {i^man Allen, olr Lieutenant-Colonel If arner s Battalion, •

\

i-

,

i

sundry disbursements for the use of his Company, the sum of 360 Dollars, over and above the account allowed ^ t^g Convention of New-York, amounting to £240 18*., V 7 \! iVeiOX OW currency. for

The Committee r„„„„i

'T'„,,

/,.//

whom was

to

r



/">

referred

the Petition of

i^

i

I rumbull, Esq., Coinmissary-General, ''°'!'P^ their Report, which was taken into consideration,

tO

i_

i



brought in and agreed

Whereupon,

:

Resolved, That there be allowed to the Several persons « j /-. j unuer-mentioned, employed in the Commissarj'-Generali, s Department in the Continental Army, the Wages and Rai

i

-

i

/-~i



annexed to their names respectively, durino- the time ^^3^ hav_e been, and shall continue, in the servTce of the tions

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, MAY

1683

At Medford

:

JMoses Emerson, Issuing Store-Keeper, and four Rations. Israel

Mead,

Fii-st

40 Dollarsa month,

Clerk, 4s. 8d., lawful money, a day,

One Clerk in Store, and one at Scales, 3s. 4d. a day, and two Rations. One Coo])er, and four Labourers, each 2s. 8(/. a day, and one Ration. Employed to issue to one Brigade. Cambridge

;

General Washington, Major-General Gates, and Brigadier-General Mijjiin, 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.

General Washington attended in Consome conference with him. Resolved, That he be directed to attend again to-morrow.

Agreeable

to order,

gress, and, after

:

Samuel Gray, Reuben Stiles, and Daniel Brown, Clerks and Magazine-Keepers, 4s. 8c/., lawful money, a day, and

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 o[ Sakty o( 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 tlie expense of the United Colonies. :

three Rations.

One

Resolved, That Mr. R. R. Livingston be added to the Committee of Conference and that they be directed further to confer with

and three Rations.

In the Magazine at

1684

25, 1776.

Cooper,

2s. 8rf., lawful

money, a day, and one Ra-

tion.

In the Magazine at

Roxbury

:

Jabez Porter and James Jauncey Pendleton, Clerks and Magazine-Keepers, 4s. 8d., lawful money, a day, and three Rations.

One

Cooper, 2s. 8d. a day, and one Ration. Joseph Farnsivorth, Commissary to Colonel Arnold's detachment, returned from Fort Halifax, £10, lawful money, a month, and three Rations per day.

John Thomas, employed constantly in riding to collect Stores, procure Teams, &c., himself and Horse, 8s., lawful money, a day, and three Rations. William Hoskins and Elisha Avery, principal Bookkeepere and payers of small bills, £10, lawful money, a month, and three Rations per day. Resolved, That an addition of 40 Dollars a month be to the pay of the Commissary-General.

made

The Committee appointed to confer with his Excellency General Washington, Major-General Gates, and BrigadierGeneral Mijflin, brought in their Report * which, being taken into consideration, was agreed to: Whereupon, Resolved, That the Commanding Officer in Canada be informed that Congress 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 the 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 Sorel. That the Commanding Officer in Canada be directed to make exact and frequent Returns of Men, Provisions, and Military Stores, in the Canadian Department, to the General and 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

The Committee

To

of Claims reported, that there is due Jacob Ililtzheimer, for sundry expresses, the sum of

372.3 Dollars

To

Captain Nathaniel Falconer,

for

his

and Mr. Ash's

expenses, together with the expenses of two servants going to New- York, with Money, and returning, the sum of 98.5 Dollars

To Daniel Smith, for expenses of Guards, &c., at the City Tavern, over Brigadier-General Prescott 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 Adjourned

matters to

this

to ten o'clock,

day

referred, being postponed,

to-morrow.

;

;

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 Congress to afford him every support, in his

endeavours to carry their views into execution.

Saturday,

May

25, 1776.

A

Letter from Colonel William Winds, dated the 18th, and a Petition from the Committee of the County of Linalso, a Petition from John coln, were presented to Congress TVilcox and John and Peter Chevalier, was presented, and ;

read.

Resolved, That the Secret Committee be directed to

sell

John Wilcox and Joh7i and Peter Chevalier, seventy-five pounds of Gunpowder. 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 Committee to be accountto the Petitioners,

able.

Resolved, That an Order for 20,000 Dollars be drawn in favour of James Mease, Commissary, for the use of the Pennsylvania Battalions, he to be ac-

on the Treasurer,

countable.

That Mr. J. Mease be directed to provide a stock of Shoes, Hats, and Stockings, for the use of the Troops in the Continental service, on the most reasonable terms.

A

Petition from

and read. Ordered, To

James McKnight was presented

to

Con-

gress, •

Report of the Committee appointed to confer -inth General Washington, General Gates, and Jirigadier-General Mifflin.

The Committee who were appointed to confer with his Excellency General Washington, Major-General Gates, and Brigadier-General J\Iifon the slate of Canada, beg leave to report, that they have obeyed the orders of Congress, and are, in conjunction with the said General Officers, unanimously of opinion, that the Commanding Officer in Canada be directed to make exact and frequent Returns of Men, Provisions, and Military Stores, in the Canadian Department, to the General or Commander-in-Chief of the United Colonies. That General Schuyler be desired to take care that the Army in Canada be regularly and eifectuaily supplied with necessaries. That the Commanding Officer in Canada be informed that the Congress 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 to these Colonies ; and as the 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. iMwretice, below

flin,

the

mouth of the

Sorel.

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 Congress to afford him every support in his endeavours to carry their views into execution.

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 in favour of the Delegates of Tlrginia,

on the Treasurer, for the use

Colony

to

of the Battalions raised in that Colony, the said

be accountable.

Agreeable to order, General Washington attended, and some conference with him, Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to confer with his Excellency General Washington, Major-General Gates, and Brigadier-General Mijjiin, and to concert a plan of Military operations for the ensuing campaign. The Members appointed Mr. Harrison, Mr. R. H. Lee, after

:

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, MAY

1685 Mr.

Adams, Mr.

Mr.

R. Livingston, Mr.

27, 1776.

1686

Whipple, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. IV. Livingston, Mr. ReMil, Mr. Tilghman, Mr. i/cwc«, Mr. Middklon, and

buryport, and Providence, as the Marine Committee shall direct and to keep the residue for the use of the Continental Army that is or may be stationed iu the Eastern Depart-

Mr.

ment.

J.

IVilson,

7?.

if«//.

Tlie Committee of Safety o{ Pennsylvania, to whom were referred the Letter from the Convention oi North- Carolina,

and the

hst of the Prisoners sent from thence, having appointed Colonel Roberdeau to wait upon Congress and inform

them

that

the Prisonere are arrived, and that they have

ordered them to be closely confined, and have appointed an officer's guard for their better security, and further to inquire

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

;

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 Committee appointed to confer with his Excellency General Washington, Major-General Gules, and BrigadierGeneral Mijjlin, touching the most proper Posts and tneasures to be taken for preventing the enemy's communication with the upper country from Canada, and such other measures as tend to secure the frontiers, brought in their Report which ;

was taken

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 Robertso7i, of the Royal Highland Emigrant Regiment, of the 9th which was in ;

part agreed to

Whereupon, Resolved, That Lieutenant-Colonel Burbeck be dismissed from the Continental service. That a Letter be written to the President of the Convention of Virginia, requesting 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 LTnited Colonies. 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 Broicn'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 paragraph Report be postponed, and that the tiiird and fifth paragraphs be referred to the Committee appointed to confer with the Generals. in said

A

And

into consideration.*

thereupon,

Resolved, That it is of the highest importance that post be taken at Deschambault, and that the same be fortified that works be likewise erected on the Islands in the River .S'^. Lawrence, at the mouth of the River Sorel, as well to keep open the communication between Deschambault and St. Johns, as to prevent the enemy's passing to the upper country, should the forces of the United Colonies be compelled to retreat from Deschambault. That it is highly expedient to engage the Indians in the service of the United Colonies. Resolved, That the further consideration of the Report be postponed till Monday next.

The

day referred, being postponed. on Monday.

several matters to this

Adjourned

to ten o'clock

Monday, May 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

gress,

Samuel de Lucena was presented

Resolved, That it be referred to the Committee moting the manufacture of Sulphur and Saltpetre.

A

to

Con-

and read. for pro-

Committee of the County of MonColony of New-Jersey, was presented to Con-

Petition from the

mouth,

in the

and read. Ordered, To

number of Deputies from four of the Six Nations of Indians, having arrived in town, and notified Congress that

gress,

they are desirous of an audience. Resolved, That they be admitted to an audience on day next, at eleven o'clock.

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 eight

Mon-

Ordered, That notice be given to the Colonels of the Asand Liberties of Philadelphia, to draw out their Battalions in Review, on Monday morning, as early as they caa conveniently; and that the Congress, with the Generals in town, will attend the Review at nine o'clock. sociation of the City

Resolved, That the Arms, Ammunition, and Military Stores, taken by the armed Schooner Franklin, or any other of the

armed

vessels in the

pay of the United Colonies, be at the Commander-in-Chief of the Ame-

disposal of the General or

rican forces.

The Committee

to

whom

the Resolutions of the

Conven-

lie

on the

table.

hundred pounds to be lodged in Fort Pitt, six hundred pounds with the Committee of West-Augusta, and six hundred pounds with the Committee of Jicstmorcland, to be used only in case that country

is

attacked.

*Meport of the Committee appointed to confer -with General WashiscTox, JMajor-General Gates, and Brig. General Mifflis.

The Commiltee appointed to confer with his Excellency General H'ashington, Major-General Gates, and Brigadier-General .W/^i«, 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, beg leave to report : That from a thorough consideration of the subject-matter referred to them, they are of opinion it is of the highest importance that post be taken at Deschambault, and that the same be forlitied that works be likewise erected on the Islands in the River St. LanTence, at the mouth of the River Sorel, as well to keep open the communication between Deschambault and St. Johns as to prevent the enemy's passing to the upper country, should the forces of the United Colonies be compelled to retreat from Deschambault. That it is highly expedient to engage the Indians in the service of the United Colonics. That the Commissioners nt.ilbanii be directed to use their utmost endeavours to procure the assistance of the Indians to act against the enemies of these Colonies that they apply themselves particularly to induce the Indians to undertake the reduction oi .^'iagara, and that, as an inducement so to do, they engage in behalf of the Congress to pay them £oO, Petinsiilva/tia currency, for every soldier of the Garrison they take and bring to Head-Quarters, or to the said Commissioners, and the free plun;

tion of

South- Carolina, respecting the Battalions raised in were referred, brought in their Report which

that Colony,

;

was read. Resolved, That the several Reports on General Washingand the General's Letters which were referred to a Committee of the whole Congress, be committed to the Committee appointed to confer with the Generals. ton's Letters not yet considered,

As two of the Committee to whom the Letter from Colonel Hand, of the Rifle Battalion, was referred, are absent. Resolved, That two other ^Members be chosen in their room.

The Members elected Mr. M^lson and Mr. Wolcott. The Committee to whom was referred the Letter from :

Charles Miller to the Commissary-General, brought in their which was read and agreed to. Whereupon,

Report

;

Resolved, That the Commissary-General be directed to order so much of the Provisions stored in the Continental IMagazine in Massachusetts-Bay, to be delivered for victualling the five ships of war,

now

building at Portsmouth, Neiv-

;

der of the Garrison. That the Commissioners in the Middle Department be directed to use their best endeavours to procure the assistance of the Indians under their care ; that they prevail upon them, if possible, to undertake the reduction of Detroit, upon the same terms as the Commissioners at .ilbany are directed to engage the Indians against .Yiagara. That the Commissioners in each of these departments be directed to employ one or more able partisans, whom the Congress will liberally reward for their exertions in the business to be committed to them. That the Commander-in-Chief be authorized and instructeJ to employ in the Continental .\rmy a number of Indians, not exceeding , upon such terms as he shall think most beneficial for the United Colonies.

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, MAY

1687 Agreeable dience.

Indians were admitted to an au-

to order the

After they withdrew,

Resolved, That the Standing Committee for Indian Affairs be directed to prepare a Speech to be delivered to the Indians, and to procure such articles as they judge proper for

The

Delegates (rom North- Carolina laid before Congress which they have received from their Convention also, the Delegates from Virginia laid before Congress certain Instructions they have received from their certain Instructions ;

;

sum of 30,000

agreeable to a former Resolution of Congress. several matters to this

Adjourned

and property. That a Committee of four be appointed

day

referred, being postponed.

to-morrow.

to ten o'clock,

The Members

chosen : Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Wythe, Mr. Adams, and Mv. Rutlcdge. Resolved, That the further consideration of the Report be postponed till to-morrow. Resolved, That the Committee have leave to

A

28, 1776.

Resolved, That Colonel Turhutt Francis be desired to attend at the next Conference with the Indians, and assist

For

The Committee a

mode

port

to

whom

Ordered,

The

was

referred to consider of

for regulating the price of Salt, brought in their

which was read. * To lie on the

;

it

Re-

table.

several matters to this day referred, being postponed.

Adjourned

to ten o'clock,

to-morrow.

again.

two brass F'ield-pieces, sent to Virginia, of 6 Dollars, and that the same ought to be paid

ferriages of

sum

James Davidson

To iValter Stewart, for his expenses in going on board the Liverpool Frigate, the sum of 8 15-90 Dollars ;

Jl.

them.

sit

mUoducmg Johan Philip Merkle

Congress, was presented and read. Resolved, That it be referred to the Secret Committee, and that they be directed to confer with the gentleman. The Committee of Claims reported, that there is due

to

May

Letter from Mr. Jay,

to the notice of

the

Tuesday,

in interpreting for

to prepare said

5.

Dollars be transmitted

to the Assembly of Massachusetts-Bay, to be by them exchanged for Silver and Gold, for the Canada expedition,

The

Resolved, That an animated Address be published, to impress the minds of the people with the necessity of their now stepping forward to save their country, their freedom,

which were read.

Resolved, That the

1688

Address.

presents to the Indians.

Convention

29, 1776.

Two

to one.

Q. What number of the attack Canada ?

A. Ten thousand.

enemy may

it

be supposed will be sent to

And

as the whole force at present directed for Canada, when it arrives there, will not exceed ten thousand men, therefore, upon the question. What are the proportions to be furnished by the different Provinces out of the Militia for the defence of Canada ?

A. Massachusetts 4,500, Connecticut 2,000, jYtie- Hampshire 1,000, 1,500, Indians 1,000; total 10,000. Q. What number of the enemy may it be supposed will attack JVeiv-

J\~ewYork

York? Wednesday, May 29, 1776.

A Letter from General Wooster, of the 27th oi April last, and a Letter fiom JVilliam Palfrey, with a Weekly Account li-om the 19th to 23th May inclusive, were laid before Congress, and read.

A

Budden was presented to ConWhereupon, Resolved, That Midshipman Draper be offered in exchange for Captain William Budden. Petition from Captain

gress,

and read

:

A

Letter from Levi Hollingsworth and Thomas Richardson to the Committee of Safety o( Fennsylvania, 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.

A. Twelve thousand five hundred. And as the Continental force now and the communication with Albany, does not exceed ten thousand men, therefore, upon the question, What are the proportions to be furnished by the different Provinces out of the Militia for the defence oi J\'e-w-York, &c. 1 A. Massachusetts 2,000, Connecticut 5,500, JVewYork 3,000, JVeviJersey 3,300, two Battalions Pennsylvania establishment 1,200; total at J^'e-M-York for the defence of that place,

15,000.

Q. What force is necessary for protection of the four JVew-England Provinces 1 A. The eleven Regiments raised and ordered to be raised in those Colonies are, in the opinion of the Committee, sufficient. Q. Should a Flying-Camp be immediately established in the Middle Colonies 1 A. Unanimously approved of. Q. How many should the Flying-Camp consist of 1 A. Ten thousand men. Q. From whence and in what propertions are the troops to come that are to form the Flying-Camp 1 A. From Pennsylvania 6,000, Marylund 3,400, lower Counties 600 total 10,000.

The Committee appointed to confer with his Excellency General Washington, Major-General Gates, and BrigadierGeneral Mifflin, brought in a further Report ;f which was read

:

Whereupon,

* Jieport

of

necessary.

Committee on the regulating the price of Salt.

the

to whom was humbly of opinion That some persons possessed of large quantities of Salt, imported before the late restrictions on our trade, have tal^en an undue advantage of the recommendation of Congress to the several Conniiitlees of Observation and Inspection to desist from any I'urlher regulation of the prices \3t' merchandise, by demanding an extravagant price for that necessary article. That, though regulations of that nature tend to discourage commerce and increase the scarcity which they were designed to remove, yet that the same is not applicable to Salt, unless it is suld so high as to be very burdensome to the poor, as it can only be imported in large vessels, the risk of which is extremely great. 'J'hat in order to remedy this inconvenience without burdening trade,

The Committee

referred the regulation of the price of

Bait, are

it

:

will be proper to fix the price of Salt

now

in the country, or hereafter

imported or manufactured, when sold at the place into which the imported, or at which it is manufactured, at two-thirds of a dollar per bushel ; if sold at any other, at the same price, with the addition of so much as will defray the charges of transportation. That a bounty should be given by this Congress of one-third of a dollar per bushel upon all such Salt as shall be imported into or manufactured within cither of these Colonies within one year from the date hereof; that the same should bo paid by the Continental Treasurer to any person or persons who shall produce to him a certificate from the Convention, Assembly, or Committee of Safety, of the Province in which Salt shall have been manufactured, or into which the same shall have been imported, that the said certificate contains the name of the manufacturer, or importer, the quantity manufactured or imported at the time in which to be

same

the

is

same was applied

to

confer viith General

WiSH-

INUTON.

The Committee

Q. For how long a time is the Militia to be engaged ? A. To the 1st oi December, unless sooner discharged by Congress. Q. When is the Militia pay to commence 1 A. From the day of their marching from home and they are to be allowed one penny a mile, lawful money, in lieu of rations, for travelling expenses, and one day's pay for every twenty miles between home and ;

the general rendezvous, going and returning. The Committee are of opinion that an animated address be published, to impress the minds of the people with the necessity of their now stepping forward to save their country, their freedom, and property. 'Fhat it be earnestly recommended to the Assemblies, Conventions, and Committees of Safety in the United Colonics, to fall upon the most effectual means of removing the stocks, grain, and meal, from such parts of their respective Provinces as are invaded, or are in imminent danger of being invaded by the enemy. It is the opinion of this Committee that two Provincial BrigadiersGeneral be employed in the Canada Department one from .Massachusetts, anAonebom Connecticut. That four Provincial Biigadicrs-General be employed in the NewYork Department one from Jfassachusetts, one from Connecticut, one from M-w-York, and one from .Vew-Jersey. It is also the opinion of this Committee that three Brigadiers-General be employed for the Flying-Camp two from Pennsylvania, and one from







Maryland; tive Colonies

that the said Brigadiers-General be appointed by the respec-

above-mentioned.

Your Committee further recommend that the Departments of Commissary-General, Quartermaster-General, Adjutant-General, &c., be under one head, to whom all Returns and Reports are to be made. That the Engineers' pay be increased. That a Resolve of Congress be passed for punishment of Spies found any of the Continental Camps That the Flying-Camp be under the command of such Continental General Officers as the Commander-in-Chief shall direct. That the Commander-in-Chief be authorized to form and fix such Magazines of Provisions and Military Stores as he may judge neces-

in

for.

f Report of the Committee appointed

appointed to confer with the Generals, &c., beg leave

to report as follows

Q. Is the present establishment sufficient for the Southern Colonies? A. The present force is sufficient, except in South- Carolina and Georgia, where it appears to this Committee that an additional force is

:

That it having been considered and proposed numbers should the enemy's force be opposed 2

in

what proportion of

sary.

That the General be authorized to direct the building as many FireRafts and Galleys as may be necessary and suitable for the immediate defence of the Post at JYeiv-York and Hudson's River.

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, MAY

1689

To David Lenox, for his expenses goint; to New- York as an escort of Money, the sum of 6-2 G8-90 Dollais To IVilliam Shcppard, for VVagon-liirc on two journeys to New-York, and on a journey to Port-Royal, hi \'irginia, with General Lee, the sum of 102 64-90 Dollars ;

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 Enviii, for vvagonagc of Gunpowder to the City of New- York, the sum of 414 Dollars. Ordered, That the said Accounts be paid. The

said

Committee

further reported, that Captain

John

Lovxlen 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. to

Reading,

Dollars.

Amount tain

of divers

articles

ordered to be charged to Cap-

Lowden, which now appear

50 3-90

to

be Continental charges,

Dollars.

Amount of John Harris and Ellas Younkman's bills, which have been twice paid, and twice charged to Captain Lowden, 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 Lowden 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

Adjourned

to ten o'clock,

day

referred, being postponed.

to-morrow. Thursday,

May

30, 1776.

The

Congress took into consideration the Report of the Committee on the mode of regulating the price of Salt, and thereupon came to the following Resolution 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 regulating the price of goods, to extort from the people a most exorbitant price for Salt

Resolved, That it be recommended to the Committees of Observation and Inspection 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 risk 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 Rewhich was read.* port ;

should your Honours see meet to give, to receive your Honoura' advice thereon, which we shall always acquiesce in ; and the favour will ever be gratefully acknowledged by, gentlemen, your most obedient, very htimble servant,

.Ioseph

the Hon. Johji Rancock, Esq., President of the Honoarable Continental Congress, now convened at Philadelphia.

To

the

Honourable

John Hancock, Esq., President of the Honourable Connow assembled at Philabelphia.

tinenlal Co^igress,

The humble

that part o/ America o/Connecticit River, north ',f the Massachusetts-Bay, and east from a ttcenty mile line from Hudson River, commonly called and known by the name of the New-Hampshire Grants, humbly showeth:

Petilion, Address,

traders of JVeTv- York, being apprised that the Province of A'e-w- Hamp-

had granted the said lands, and that settlements were actually making, did present a petition (as we have often heard and verily believe) in your Petitioners' names, praying that the same lands granted by J\'e-iv-Hampshire might be annexed to the Province of S\'e~.i'-} ork, on account of its local and other circumstances, for the benefit of the inhabishire

the contest between Great Britain and the United Colonies but that such submission ought not to prejudice the right of them or others to the lands in controversy, or any part of them, nor be construed to aifirm or admit the jurisdiction oi J^'eiv-York in and over that country; and when the present troubles are at an end, the tinal determination of their right may be mutually referred to proper judges. ;

Lv Congress, June 4. Resolved, That Reman Allen have leave to withdraw the Petition. He represents that he had left behind some papers necessary to support the allegation therein contained.

New-Hampshihe AVe beg

Your

tants.

leave, with submission,

Gra?»ts, January 17, 1776.

humbly

to

communicate

to

your Ho-

nours, by our trusty and wcU-beloved friends, Lieutenant James Rrachnaife. Captain Heman Allen, and Df. Jonas Fat/, a state of that district of land commonly called and known by the name of the J\cii-Ramps/ure Grants, who are appointed by the Representatives of the several Townships on said Grants, in General Convention assembled this day, and pray your Honours to receive them as persons legally chosen, and to whom said Representatives have reposed the trust and management of preferring

a remonstrance of the situation of the state of the Grants aforesaid

;

and

Petitioners not being apprised of the intrigue in this case,

no objection was made why the prayer of the was pleased, with advice of Council, on the 4th day of July, 1764, to grant tlie same. Immediately after, the land-traders of J\"e-M-York petitioned the then Governour of that Province for grants of land, some parts of which had been previously

were mute

;

therefore, as

Petition should not be granted, his Majesty

granted to your Petitioners by the Governour and Council of A'eic-HampThe dispute then became serious. Your Petitioners then petitioned his Majesty for relief in the premises. His Majesty was pleased to appoint a Committee, who reported to his Majesty in the premises, and his Majesty was pleased to pass Order in the following words: shire.

"At

a Court of St. James, 24 th day of Julii, 1767. Present: " The King's Most Excellent Majesty.

" Archbishop of Canterbury, " Lord Chancellor,

Duke " Duke

The Committee to whom the Petition, Address, and Remonstrance, of the persons inliabiting that part oi America wliich is commonly called and known by the name of the JX^e-iv-JIampshire Grants was referred, have examined the matter thereof, and come to the following Resolution the opinion of this Committee that it be recommended to the Petitioners, for the present, to submit to the Government of Xew-l'ork, and contribute their assistance, with their countrymen, in

liiu,v:est

were men of considerable substance, disposed of their interest in their native places, and with their numerous families proceeded many of them two hundred miles, encountering many dangers, fatigues, and great hardships, to inhabit a desolate wilderness, which is now become a well-settled frontier to three Governments. This was not all our trouble, for soon after the commencement of those settlements the monopolizing land-

"

it is

and Remonstrance, of

o/Canada

That your Honours' Petitioners being fully sensible and deeply affected with the very alarming situation in which the United Colonies are involved by means of a designing Ministry, who have flagrantly used, and still are using, their utmost etTorts to bring the inhabitants of the very extensive Continent of America into abase and servile subjection to arbitrary power, contrary to all the most sacred ties of obligation, by covenants, and the well-known Constitution by which the British Empire ought to be governed, your Petitioners, (not to be prolix or waste time,) when the whole Continent are in so disagreeable a situation, would, however, beg leave to remonstrate, in as short terms as possible, the very peculiar situation in which your Petitioners have for a series of years been exercised, and are still struggling. Perhaps your Honours, or at least some of you, are not unacquainted, that at the conclusion of the last war the above described premises, which your Petitioners now inhabit, were deemed and reputed to be in the Province of j\'ext> Hampshire, and consequently within the jurisdiction of the same. Whereupon applications were freely made to Benning fl'ent-worth,YiS(]u\re, then Governour of the Province of J\"e-.v-Ham/ishire, who, with the advice of his Council, granted, under the great seal of said Province, to your Honours' Petitioners a large number of Townships, of the contents of six miles square each. In consequence of which, a great number of your Petitioners, who

said Gbasts.

:

Woouwaru, Chairman.

To

'Report of a Committee on the Letter from Joseph WooDWAni), of the JS'ew-Hampsuiri! GiiANTS, and the Petition of the Inhabitants of

thereupon Resolved, That

1690

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 Rejwrr. Whereupon, Resolved, That he receive his pay, being a soldier in Cajitain Morgans Company of Riflemen, to be continued from the time of his captivity until the 1.5tli day of June next, and a gratuity of 100 Dollars.

being situate south

Transporting baggage from Northumberland

40

30, 1776.

of Queensborough,

of .incaster. " Lord Chamberlain, " Viscount Clarke,

"Bishop of London,

Earl of Litchfield, Earl of Bristol, Earl of Shelburn, Viscount Falmouth, Viscount Barrington, Mr. Secretary Con-way, Hans Stanly, Esq.

" His Majesty taking the said Report into consideration, was pleased, with the advice of his Privy Council, to approve thereof, and doth hereby strictly charge, require, and command, that the Governour or Commanderin-Chief of his .Majesty's Province of.AVu-l"oiA- for the time being do not, upon pain of his Alajcsty's highest displeasure, presume to make any grant whatsoever of any part of the lands described in the said Report until his

known concerning the same. William Sharp.*' George Basvar, Deputy Secretary.

Majesty's further pleasure should be

'

A

true copy attested

:

The many intervening and unhappy disputes which have since happened between those land-traders of .Ve-.i- York and your Petitioners would take up too much time, under the present situation of publick aflairs, ;o recite, as Lieutenant James Bracknage, Captain He/nan .illen, ajid Dr. Jonas Fay, whom we have appointed to present this to your Honours, will be furnished therewith, should they find your Honours' admitLet it suffice here tance, and such particulars be thought necessary. only to mention that the oppressions from those overgrown land-traders of i\'eii'- 1 or/l' were so grievous, that your Petitioners were again induced, In consequence of which, a at a great expense, to petition his M.ijesty. Committee was appointed, and made a report in favour of your Petitionare called on this moment ers, which is too prolix to be inserted here. by the Committee of Safety for the County of .ilbany to suppress a dangerous insurrection in Tryon County. Upwards of ninety soldiers were on their march within twelve hours after receiving the news, all the

We

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS. JUNE

1691

Hcman

A Petition from Captain Congress, and read.

Allen was presented

to

An extract of a Letter from a gentleman in Bermuda, dated the 26th April, and continued to the 1st May, 1776, to a o-entleman in Fhiladel-phia, was presented to Congress, and read. it be referred to the Committee appointed examine the most proper Posts to be fortified. Resolved, That six of the heaviest Cannon at Newport,

Resolved, That to

and fourteen of the heaviest Cannon at New-London, belonging to the Continent, be transported to Philadelphia as soon as possible. That copies of the above Resolution be transmitted to the Governours of Rhode-Island and Connecticut. Tiie Congress then took into consideration the Report of the Committee appointed to confer with his ExcellencyGeneral Washington, Major-General Gates, and Brigadier-

General Miffiin; and after some debate. Resolved, That it be referred to a Committee of the whole Congress.

The

Congress then resolved

Whole,

a Committee of the Report of the Commit-

itself into

to take into consideration the

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 tee of

him

to

;

move

for

leave to

sit

inhabiiants of one town inhabited by your Petitioners, and all furnished with arms, ammunition, accoutrements, and provisions, &c. Again we are alarmed by express from General U'ooster, commanding at Montreal, with the disagreeable news of the unfortunate attack on Quebeck; (unfortunate, indeed, to lose so brave a Commander,) requiring our immediate In consequence of which, a considerable number assistance by troops. immediately marched for Quebeck, and more are daily following their Yet while we, your Petitioners, are thus earnestly engaged, example. we beg leave to say we are entirely willing to do all in our power in the general cause under the Continental Congress, and have been ever since the taking of Ticonderoga, &c., in which your Petitioners were principally active, under the command of Colonel Ethan Allen, but are not willing to put ourselves under the honourable Provincial Congress of JVe-ui-York in such a manner as might in future be detrimental to our private property, as the oath to be administered to those %vho are or shall be entrusted with commissions from said Congress and the association

agreed upon by the same authority, together with some particular restrictions and orders for regulating the Militia of said Province, if conformed to by the inhabitants of said .Vew-Nampshive Grants, will, as we apprehend, be detrimental to your Petitioners in the determination of the dispute now subsisting between said inhabitants and certain claimants under said Province o{J\'e-w-rork, and that your Petitioners' ardent desire of exerting themselves in the present struggle for freedom may not be restrained, and that we might engage in the glorious cause without fear of giving our opponents any advantage in the said land dispute now subsisting, which we would wish should lie dormant until a general restoration of tranquillity shall allow us the opportunity for an equitable decision One other reason that much hinders our joining hand and of the same. hand with JVewYork Government in the general cause is, they will not own us in our property, but, on the contrary, the Judges of the Supreme Court for said Province have expressly declared the charters of our lands, deeds, &c., to be null and void. Therefore we, your Honours' humble Petitioners, most earnestly pray your Honours to take our case into your

wise consideration, and order that for the future your Petitioners shall do duty in the Continental service, if required, as inhabitants of said JVetoHamjishire Grants, and not as inhabitants of the Province of JVe^o-York, or subject to the limitations, restrictions, or regulations, of the Militia of said Province, and that commissions, as your Honours shall judge meet,

be granted accordingly. And, as in duty bound, your Honours' Petitioners shall ever pray.

At a meeting of the Representatives of the difierent Towns on the JVeic-I/ampshire Grants, legally warned and convened at the house of Cephas Kent, Inn-holder, in Dorset, on the 16th day o( January, 1776, Captain Joseph IVoodioard Chairman, Doctor Jonas Fay Clerk. This meeting, after due consideration, agreed to prefer to the honourable Continental Congress an humble Petition, setting forth the peculiar circumAccordingly a Committee was stances of this part of the country. appointed to draw up the same, who drew up the foregoing, and reported The Clerk read the same in his place, and to the House in the evening. it

in at the table.

The House adjourned January

The

17.

till

to-morrow morning, nine o'clock.

— Met according

to

and Floating-Batteries as may be necessary and suitable for the immediate defence of the Post of New- York and Hudson's River.

,

Resolved, That this Congress will to-morrow again resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole, to take into their further consideration the Report of the Committee of Confer-

I

J

ence.

The

several matters to this

Adjourned

to ten o'clock,

day referred, being postponed, to-morrow Friday,

May

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 Abra-

ham 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 2 1 st, from Jonathan Trumbull, Deputy Paymaster-General, and a Petition from Hugh King, in behalf of himself and others, were laid before Congress, and read.

Resolved, That an Order for 50,000 Dollars be drawn on the Treasurers, in favour of Brigadier-General MiJJlin, to enable him to pay for Tents, Intrenching Tools, and sundry other articles, which he, as Quartermaster-General, has bought in Philadelphia for the use of the Continental Army; he to be accountable.

^

was agreed

of Conference brought in a further Re* which was read Resolved, That it be referred to the Committee of the Whole Congress.

port

:

;

Resolved, That John Connolly, John Smith, and Allan in the Jail oi Philadelpliia, who are represented to be in a dangerous state of health, be permitted, lor the recovery of their health, to walk two hours in the day in the yard of the Prison, in company

Cameron, three of the Prisoners confined

with, or under the inspection of, at least two of the Guards.

The Congress then resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole, to take into their further 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, and have come to ;

to

by the whole

House. Then Lieutenant James ISracknuge and Captain Heman Mien were nominated to prefer the said Petition. The vote was called passed Then Doctor Jonas Fay was nominated; in the affirmative nem. con. the vote called passed in the affirmative nem. con. Joseph Woodwahd, Chairman. Jonas, Fat, Clerk. A true copy: ;

J %

sundry Resolutions thereon, but, not having yet finished, desired

him

to

move

Resolved, That

for leave to sit again.

this

Congress

will

to-morrow again resolve

Committee of the Whole, to take into their further consideration the Reports of the Committee of Conference. itself into

The

a

several matters to this

Adjourned

to ten o'clock,

day

referred, being postponed.

to-morrow. Saturday, June

1,

1776.

Letters from the Committee of Hartford and Northampton, in Connecticut, respecting Prisoners, being laid before

Congress, and read. Resolved, That they be referred to the Committee on Prisoners.

A

Letter of the 27th of May, from Governour Trumbull, from Colonel /. Reed, informing ; and a Letter that, upon his arrival dii Nciv-York , finding a gentleman of character and abilities performing the services of Secretary,

was

also read

with satisfaction to the General, he was induced to request, and has obtained, the General's leave to resign that office. •

Jieport of the Committee of Conference.

it is the opinion of this Committee that the Governour and Assembly of the Colony of Connecticut, the Convention of JVewYork, the General .Assembly of the Colony oi .Massachusetts-Bay, and the Convention of the Colony of .Yeu-Jerscy, and the several Conventions of such other of the United Colonies in which there ai e any Lead

Resolved, That

Mines, be requested to transmit to this Congress, with all convenient despatch, the stale and condition of the Lead Mines in their respective Colonies. liesolved. That it is the opinion of this Committee that the service will render it necessary for General Schuyler to increase the number of Bat-

tcaus to two hundred.

adjournment.

said Petition being a second time read,

1692

1776.

The Committee

again.

Resolution reported from the Committee of the whole Congress being read, was agreed to, as follows Resolved, That the General be authorized to direct the building as many Fire-Rafts, Row-Galleys, Armed Boats,

The

afterwards delivered

1.

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee that four of the Prisoners taken at St. Johns, and suggested by the said letter from CapIVilliam tain Robertson to have inlisted in the Continental Army, to wit :

Roughhead and Etisha Grister in Captain Hubley's Company, Jolm Santoir in Captain JJro^ver's Company, and John Jllayot in a Company un-

;

known, ought Lancaster.

to be

dismissed the service, and returned to their Corps at

a

9

'

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1693 The Committee on

Indian Affairs, to

whom

was

it

refer-

red to consider of a proper present for the Indians, brought

Whereupon, Resolved, Tliat the said Committee be empowered and directed to purchase Goods for a present to the Indians, to an amount not exceeding 426 60-90 Dollars.

The

Congress then resolved

Mr. Harrison Committee had taken into further consideration the matters to them referred, and come to some Resobut not having lutions, which they desired him to report yet come to a conclusion, directed him to move for leave to thereon, the President resumed the chair, and

reported, that the

;

again.

The Report from the Committee of the whole Congress was read :* Whereupon, 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, Resolved, That the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay be re- 3,000 quested to supply, of their Militia, 4 Battalions. - 1,500 ConnerftcM^, of their Militia, 2 Battalions.

750 750

J^ew-Hampshire, of their Militia, iVew-For^, of their Militia, - -

— — — —

I

Battalion.

1

Battalion.

Resolved, That the further consideration of the Report

be postponed

till

Monday

will,

on

Monday next,

again

Committee of the Whole, to take into consideration the Report of the Committee of

resolve itself into a their further

The

of Claims reported, that there is due to Anthony Fricker, for boarding the Scotch Hostages from the 22d of March to the 4th of June instant, 246 78-90 Dollars. To Samuel Patterson, for Wagon-hire and dining the Prisoners brought from North- Carolina, the sum of 7 60-90

Committee of the Whole,

May

31, 1776.

of the whole Congress, to whom was referred the Report of the Committee appointed to confer with his Excellency General

The Committee

IVashington, Major-General Gates, and Brigadier-General Ji[ijliii,have taken into consideration the matter referred to them, and have come to the following Resolutions Resolved, as the opinion of this Committee, That the General be authorized to direct the building as many Fire-REifts, Row-Galleys, Boats, and Floating-Batteries as may be necessary and suitable for the immediate defence of the Post at JVeTn-Vork and Hudson River. Resolved, That six thousand men, in aJdition to those sent into Canada, be employed to reinforce the Army there, and to keep up the communication to that country. And to complete that number, That the Colony of Massaclmsetts-Bay be requested to supply, of their 3,000 4 Battalions. Militia, the number of 1,500 2 do. Connecticut, of their Militia, 750 do. J^'ew-ffampshire, of their Militia,



...

.^e-ji-ro;*, of their Militia,

-

be paid to Thomas

to ten o'clock,

on

Monday

Mc-

next.

Monday, June

3,

1776.

Sundry Letters received by General Washington, were before Congress, and read.

laid

Resolved, That an Order be drawn on the Treasurers for Dollars, in favour of Ej/hrairn Blaine, Esq., in

106G 2-3

advance, for the purchase of Shoes, to be sent to fi'illiamshurgh, for the use of the Continental Army; he to be accountable.

The Committee port,

of Conference brought

in

a further

Re-

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 further consideration the

Re-

Committee of Conference and after some lime spent thereon, the President resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the Committee have had under their further consideration the matters to them referred, and have come to sundry Resolutions thereon, but not having come to a conclusion, desired him to move for leave to sit ports of the

;

The Congress then took into consideration the Report from the Committee of the Whole Whereupon, Resolved, That the General be empowered :

j-Ix

The Committee

Is

to

the said Accounts be paid.

several matters to this day referred, being postponed,

Adjourned

Conference.

*

same ought

Kean, Esq.

again, f

next.

Resolved, That the Congress

1694

Committee of

a

itself into

the Whole, to take into their further consideration the Report of the Committee of Conference ; and after some time spent

sit

Dollars, and that the

Ordered, That

Report

in tiieir

1776.

b,

-

750

-

— — —

1

-...---

-

13,800

Resolved, That the eleven Battalions raised and ordered to be raised for the protection of the four jVew-Enffland Colonies are, in the opinion of this Committee, sufficient. Resolved, That a Flying-Camp be immediately established in the Middle Colonics.

That the Flying-Camp consist often thousand men. To complete

this

number.

That the Colony oi Pennsylvania be requested Militia, the number of Maryland, o( ihcit M.i\\x\ei, Delaiiiare Government,

1776.

;





That the Commander-in-Chief be authorized to form and fix such Magazines of Provisions and Military Stores as he may judge necessary.

And, as a further reinforcement. Resolved, That a number of Indians, not exceeding two thousand, be taken into the pay of the Continent. Resolved, That thirteen thousand eight hundred Militia be employed to reinforce the Army at A'e-m-York. To complete which number, that the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay he requested to furnish, of their Militia, - 2,000 5,500 Connecticut, of their Militia, 3,000 JVe-wVork, of their Militia, 3,300 J^ew-Jersey, of their Militia, -

3,

Committee, That three .'Majors-General and two Brigadiers-General be added to the Continental Establishment of General Officers and that the vacancies in the offices of AdjutantGeneral and Quartermaster-General he filled up. That the Governour and Assembly of the Colony of Connecticut, the Convention of J^'e-w- York, the General Assembly of the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay, the Convention of the Colony of A'ew-Jersey, and the several Conventions of such other of the United Colonies, in which there are any Lead Mines, be requested to transmit to Congress, with all convenient despatch, the state and condition of the Lead .Mines in their respective Colonies, and use the most speedy means to procure their being wrought to elfect. That it be earnestly recommended to the Assemblies, Conventions, and Committees of Safety, in the United Colonies, to fall upon the most effectual means of removing the Stocks, 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 Brigadiers-General be employed in the Canada Department one from Massachusetts-Bay and one from Connecticut. That four Provincial Brigadiers-General be employed in the .AVitiTorh Department one from .Massachusetts-Bay, one from Connecticut, one from J\'ew-Vork, and one from jVen-Jersey. That three Brigadiers-General be employed for the Flying-Camp, viz: two from Rennsytvania and one from Maryland. That the said Brigadiers-General be appointed by the respective Colothis

nies above-mentioned.

do.

6,000

Total,

Committee of the Whole Cosobess, June

Resolved, as the opinion of

to furnish, of their

......

6,000 3,400

600 10,000

Resolved, That the present force provided for the protection of the Southern Colonies, is sutficient, except for South- Carolina and Georgia. That the Militia be engaged to the Isl o{ December, unless sooner discharged by Congress. That the pay of the Militia commence from the day of their marching from home, and that they be allowed one penny a mile, lawful money, in lieu of rations, for travelling expenses, and one day's pay for every twenty miles between home and the general rendezvous, going and returning.

Ix CojiMiTTEE OF THE

Whole, June

4.

1776.

Resolved, That the Deputy Commissaries-General, Deputy Quartermasters-General, Deputy Adjutants-General, and Deputy .\iusteruiastersGeneral 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 Returns to Congress at the same periods. Resolved, That the Paymaster-General and his Deputies make Jlonthly Returns to Congress of their expenditures, and the state of the Military Chest in their several Departments. Resolved, That a resolve of Congress be passed for punishment of Spies found in any of the Continental Camps. That the Flying-Camp be under the command of such Continent^ General Officers as the Commander-in-Chief shall direct. Resolved, That Expresses be established between the several Continental Posts. Resolved, That the Militia, when in service, be regularly paid and victualled in the same manner as the Continental Troops. Resolved, That a Paymaster be appointed to each Regiment; that it shall be the duty of the Regimental Paymasters to keep all the .^ccoimts of their respective Regiments, and to observe such rules and orders as shall be given them in command by the General or Commander-in-Chief, and that each of them be allowed, for this service, dollars per

month.

That the Aids-de-Camp of the Commander-in-Chief rank as Lieutenant-Colonels. That the .\ids-de-Camp of Alajor-Generals rank as Majors. That Robert Hanson Harrison, Esq., be allowed the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Continental Army. Resolved, That the Assistant Quartermasters-General be allowed Captain's pay.

Resolved, That the pay of Regimental Surgeons be augmented to 33 J month.

dollars a

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1695

to employ in Canada a number o( Indians, not exceeding two thousand. Resolved, That thirteen tliousand eight hundred Militia be employed to reinforce the Army at New-York. To complete which number, Resolved, That the Colony of Massachasetts-Bay be re2,000 quested to furnish, of their Militia, 5,500 Connecticut, of their Militia, 3,000 Neiv- York, of their Militia, 3,300 New-Jersey, of their Militia,

---------------

Resolved, as the opinion of this 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-Comp be immediately established in the Middle Colonies and that it consist of ten thou-

-

to furnish, of their Militia,

-----

-6,000 -3,400 600

Mf/ry/onf/, of their Militia, Delaivare Government, of their Militia, Resolved, That the Militias be engaged to the 1st 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 rations, 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 Continental Establishment of General Officers, and that the vacancies in the offices of Adjutant-Gene-

and Quartermaster-General be filled up. the General Assembly of the Colony of Massachusetts-Bay, the Governour and Assembly of the Colony of Connecticut, the. Conventions o{ Neiv-York dind New-Jersey, and the several Conventions of such other of the United Colonies in which there are any Lead Mines, be requested ral

That

to transmit

state

to

Congress, with

convenient despatch, the

all

and condition of the Lead Mines

Colonies, and use the most speedy

being wrought to effect. That it be earnestly recommended ventions, and Committees of Safety

in their respective

means

to procure their

May, in his favour, by B. Franklin, Samuel Chase, and Charles Carroll of Carrollton Commissioners in Canada, for value by them received there, and employed in the publick 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, Accoutrements, and Camp-kettles.

A

in

the Assemblies,

Con-

the United Colonies,

upon the most effectual means of removing the Stocks, 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 one from Massachusetts-Bay and the Canada Department one from Connecticut. That four Provincial Brigadier-Generals be employed in one from Massachusetts-Bay, the iVew-ForA; Department one from Connecticut, one from New- York, and one from to

fall





New-Jersey. three Provincial Brigadier-Generals be employed Flying-Camp two from Pennsyhania, and one from Maryland. That the said Brigadier-Generals be appointed by the re-

That



for the

Resolved, That

the Commander-in-Chief be authorized to form

A

Letter of the 31st of May from John Macpherson, Congress, and read.

and Quartermaster-General. Resolved, That

Resolved, That

it

Committee be empowered

to

respondence. Resolved, That further

this

Congress

will,

to-morrow, again re-

Whole, to take into their consideration the Report of the Committee of Con-

Committee of

the

ference.

The

several matters to this day referred, being postponed,

Adjourned

to ten o'clock,

to-morrow. Tuesday, June

Resolved,

That an order

be referred to Mr. Read and Mr. Mcto confer with Mr. Macpherson.

A

Petition from Colonel Turhutt Francis

was presented

and read.

to Congress,

Resolved, That

be referred to a Committee of seven. Hexves, Mr. Harrison, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Wythe, Mr. R. R. Livingston, Mr. Lynch, and Mr. Braxton. it

The Members chosen Mr. ;

Resolved, That the Secret Committee be directed to deMuskets lately imported, to Colonel Shee, for the

liver the

use of his Battalion.

Heman Allen have leave to withby 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 Resolved, That Captain

draw the

Petition

support the allegations therein contained.

Resolved, That the Committee of Safety of Pennsylvania to negotiate with Captain Bellew, on the best

be empowered

terms they can, for an exchange of the Prisoners on board the Liverpool: Provided always, that this shall not be constued so as to enable them to deliver up Lieutenant Bogan

and Lieutenant Ball

in the

to order, the

mittee of the

Whole,

exchange.

Congress resolved

itself into

a

Com-

to take into their further consideration

and after the Reports of the Committee of Conference some time spent thereon, the President resumed the chair, and I\Ir. Harrison reported, that the Committee have taken into their further consideration the matters to them referred, and have come to some further Resolutions 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 itself into

a

this

Congress

will,

to-morrow, again resolve

Committee of the Whole,

ther consideration the Reports of the

to take into their fur-

Committee of Confer-

ence.

The several Adjourned

matters to this day referred, being postponed, to ten o'clock, to

morrow. Wednesday, June

A Letter of the 2d, from Major-General

5,

1776.

Putnam, with sun-

dry Letters and Papers enclosed, was laid before Congress,

and read. Resolved, That the same be referred to the Committee on Prisoners.

the Secret

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 Cor-

solve itself into a

was

Kean, who are directed

fix

Resolved, 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

be referred to the Committee to whom May last were committed.

laid before

and

such Magazines of Provisions and Military Stores as he may judge necessary.

it

the Letters received the 21st oi

spective Colonies above-mentioned.

That

Letter of the 3d, fiom ll^Uiam Palfrey, Paymaster-Gewas laid before Congress, and read.

neral,

Agreeable to

1696

a Draft the 10th

;

sand men. To complete which number. Resolved, That the Colony of Pennsylvatiia be requested

1776.

5,

for

800

Dollars be drawn on the full

Rum, which he is desirous of exchanging for Provisions, which the inhabitants of the Islands oi Bermudas are in exWhereupon, treme want of. Resolved, That the said Master be allowed to exchange his cargo lor Provisions, and to export the same, under the inspection and direction of the Committee oiGreenwich, who

of

are desired to take an oath, or such other security as they think proper, of the said RIaster, that he will carry the same

4, 1776.

Treasurers, in favour of Joseph Hwift, Jun., being in

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 Sloop Betsey ^ Ann, Benjamin Tucker, Master, from Bermuda, was arrived there, with seventeen hundred bushels of Salt, and two puncheons

of

to the Islands of

vours to avoid

Bermudas, and will use his utmost endeaEnglish men-of-war and cutters.

all

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1697 The

6,

1776.

1698

Congress took into consideration the Report from the Committee of the Whole. Whereupon, Resolved, That a Committee of five he appointed to consider what is proper to be done with persons giving intelhgence to tlie enemy, or supplying them with Provisions. The Members chosen Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Rutledge, Mr. Wilson, and Mr. R. Livingston.

Commissioners in Canada, of the 1.5th and 20lh of May, and one to General IVooster, of the 27lli of the same rnonili.

Resolved, That the Deputy Commissaries-General, Deputy Quartermastei-s-General, Deputy Adjutants-General,

May,

and Deputy Mustermasters-General, 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 Returns to Congress at the same

sioners in

:

Three from Brigadier-General ^rnoW, of the 17th, 25lh, to the Commissioners iti Canada, enclosing a Cartel entered into between him and Captain Forster, (or exchange of Prisoners. and 27 th of May,

One

Resolved, That a copy of the Letter from the CommisCanada be sent to General Washington. Resolved, That Brigadier-General Wooster be directed

immediately to repair

That the Letters Committee of five.

periods.

That

the Paymaster-General, and the

General,

make Monthly Returns

to

expen-

their

for Indian Afbe directed to devise ways and means for carrying into effect the Resolution of the 3d of this month, empowering

fairs

the General to

That Expresses be

established

between the several Con-

The Committee

tinental Posts.

when in service, be regularly paid and same manner as the Continental Troops. Aids-de-Camp of the Coifimander-in-Chief rank

the Militia,

the

Aids-de-Camp of Major-Generals rank

as

That Robert Hanson Harrison, Esquire, have the rank of in the Continental Army. That the Assistant Quartermasters be allowed Captains'

to

whom was

pay-

That the pay of the Regimental Surgeons be augmented to thirty-three Dollars

and one-third of a Dollar a month.

sures as they

may

arming, and

tinental Posts.

table for consideration.

this

Congress

will,

to-morrow, again re-

ference.

The Order of the Day, and

the several matters to this day

referred, being postponed.

Adjourned

to ten o'clock,

to-morrow. Thursday, June

6,

Sundry Letters and Papei-s being received, were fore Congress, and read, viz

Two Letters from Major-General Schuyler, of the May and 1st oi June.

A Letter

from the Commissioners

in

1776.

Series.

—Vol.

vi.

War

for

on the

lie

of Claims reported that there is due Captain William West, for expenses in conducting JfUliamsburgh, (Horse-hire, k.c., included.) the Money to

sum

of

To

219 40-90

gon and

42

Dollai-s

Melchior Meng,

for

Hoi-ses, carrying

Dollars

;

twenty-one days' hire of his

Money

to Virginia, the

Wa-

sum of

;

To Benjamin

Townc, the sum of 26 27-90 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 18 66-90 Dollars, and tliat the same ought to be paid and charged to the said Regiment To John Kuntz, the sum of 21 40-90 Dollars.of which

sum sum

is due, for entertaining General Lee's Guards, the of 10 60-90 Dollare, and for Expresses, the sura of 10

there

70-90 Dollars To Michael Staddkman, for entertaining General Lee's Guards, the sum of 1 1 39-90 Dollars To Benjamin Smith, for Board and Accommodations for This Prisoners at Trenton, the sum of 31 4-90 Dollars. money became due before the regulation of Congress for determining the price of their Board took place That there is due for expenses in apprehending Henry Edwin Stanhope and George Gregory, \\ ho broke their parole and ran from JSorlhampton, the sum of 47 48-90 Dollars, and that the same ought to be paid, and charged to the said Stanhope and Gregory. Ordered, That the said Accounts be paid to J. Hancock. ;

Esquire. laid be-

The Marine Committee having recommended sundry gen31st of

tlemen

for

Captains and Subaltern

Officei-s for the

building or built for the Continent, the

Canada, of the 27th

and 28th of May. Three Letters from General Thomas, of which, two

Fourth

two Sloops of

the remainder of the Report

To

Resolved, That no person shall be appointed to any place profit, unless the person to be appointed shall have a ma-

Committee of the Whole, to lake into their consideration the Report of the Committee of Con-

That

The Committee

Joseph Reed, Esq., was elected Adjutant-General, and Stephen Moylaii, Esq., was elected Quartermaster-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

the said Islands,

draft of a Speech to be delivered to the Indians being was agreed to. Resolved, That the delivery of this Speech be deferred for some days.

ed,

solve itself into a

Philadelphia,

and the same

The

;

:

;

read,

Congress then proceeded to the election of an AdjutantGeneral and Quartermaster-General, to fill up the vacancies when, the ballots being taken and examinin those offices

Congress then proceeded to the election of two BrigadierGenerals; when, the ballots being taken, the following gentlemen were duly elected John (Vhitcombe, Esq., and Hugh Mercer, Esq.

fitting, at

Resolved,

Mr. Bartlett, Mr. Samuel Adams, Mr. Ellery, Mr. Wolcott, Mr. Lewis, Mr. W. Livingston, Mr. Franklin, Mr. Rodney, Mr. Rogers, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Hewes, Mr. Lynch, Jun., and Mr. Gwinnett.

of the election.

in

the service of the United Colonies.

are:

jority of the voices of the Colonies represented at the time

a

think proper for purchasing, manning,

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 Con-

The Members

referred an extract of

Bermuda, dated 26th of April,

in

of the Islands of Bermudas ; and that the Committee of Secret Correspondence be directed to take such measures as they may think proper by those Vessels to discover the state of those Islands, and the disposition of their inhabitants ; and that the Marine Committee be instructed to take such mea-

Lieutenant-Colonel

further

number of Indians, not

being taken into consideration, Resolved, That the Secret Committee be instructed forthwith to fit out two fast-sailing Vessels, and load them with Provisions, to be sent immediately to supply the inhabitants

Ma-

jors.

of

a

and continued to May 1st, to a gentleman brought in their Report, which was read

as Lieutenant-Colonels.

That

Canada

in

Letter from a gentleman

victualled in the

the

employ

exceeding two thousand.

shall direct.

That

Head-Quartei-s at J^ew-York. and read, be referred to a

Resolved, That the Standing Committee

and the state of the military chests in their several Departments. That the Flying-Camp be under the command of such Continental General Officers as the Commander-in-Chief ditures,

That

to

just received

The Members chosen: Mv. Sherman, Mr. Wythe, ^Ir. Sergeant, Mr. F. Lee, and Mr. Gwinnett.

Deputy Paymasters-

Congress of

from Brigadier-General Tliompson, of the 2.5lh of Commissioners. Whereupon,

to the

to the

Ships

same was taken

into

Whereupon, Resolved, That Thomas Thompson be appointed Captain of the Frigate built in yew-Hampshire

consideration.

107

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1699

John Hopkins and Samuel Tonkins Rhode- Island

those building in Philadelphia

for

James Nicholson,

for that building in

That

1776.

1700

expedient forthwith to take forming Foreign alliances.

is

for

Maryland.

of Captain Maidy's Ship.

into consideration.

The

Resolved, That the jMarine Committee be empowered to names to each particular Ship, and determine the Vessel which each Captain is to take command of.

Marine Committee be empowered and directed two more Ships-ofWar, and their size, and report to Congress.

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. several matters to this day referred, befng postponed, to ten o'clock, to-morrow.

Adjourned

affix the

Saturday, June 8, 1776.

the

to consider the propriety of building

Members be added ways and means

Millions of Dollars, voted the 6th of

The Members

chosen and Mr. Tilghman.

:

to the

effectual

and transmitconsideration and ap-

moved and seconded. Resolved, That the consideration of them be deferred till to-morrow morning ; and that the Members be enjoined to attend punctually at ten o'clock, in order to take the same

The Committee

Resolved, That Israel Turner be First Lieutenant, Joseph Doble Second [/leutenant, Mark Dennet Third Lieutenant,

Resolved, That three

most

a plan of Confederation be prepared

ted to the respective Colonies for their

Providence, and Dekncare.

tee appointed to devise

tlie

probation,] being

;

Resolved, That the names of the thirteen Frigates be, the Congress, Randolph, Hancock, Washington, Trumbull, Raleigh, Effingham, Montgomery, Warren, Boston, Virginia,

That

it

measures

Christopher Miller, for one of those building at Neic- York Nicholas Biddle, John Barry, Thomas Read, Charles

Alexander,

That

for those building in

10.

Resolved, That the Resolutions respecting Independency be referred to a Committee of the whole Congress.

Commit-

The

Ten

Whole

for raising

May.

chair,

Mr. Braxton, Mr. R. Livingston,

Resolved, That Dr. 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.

itself into a Committee of the time, the President resumed the Harrison reported, that the Committee have

Congress then resolved and, after

;

and Mr.

some

taken into consideration the matter to them referred, but not having come to any resolution thereon, directed him to move for leave to

sit

Monday.

again on

Resolved, That

this

Congress

ten o'clock, resolve itself into a

will,

on

Monday

next, at

Committee of the Whole,

to

;

Resolved, That an Express be sent to Hugh Mercer, Esq., yesterday appointed a Brigadier-General, with his Commission, and that he be desired immediately to repair to

who was

Head-Quarters

A Memorial gress,

at

New- York.

A

Petition of John Bayard, Joseph Deane, and William Erskine, being presented to Congress, and read, Resolved, That the Secret Committee be directed to sell fifty pounds of Powder and pounds of Swivel and Grape-Shot, for the use Privateer Hancock, aind also seven hundred and fifty

four hundred

of their

Resolved, That

be referred

it

to contract for the casting of

several matters to this

Adjourned

to them.

the Petitioners five hundred and

of Jacob Ummensetter was presented to Con-

and read.

The

take into their further consideration the Resolutions referred

to ten o'clock,

to the

Committee appointed

pounds of Powder before applied

Cannon. day

The

referred, being postponed,

several matters to this

Adjourned

to ten o'clock,

for.

day

referred, being postponed.

on Monday.

to-morrow. Monday, June Friday, June

The Committee

to

whom was

7,

1776.

referred the Letter from

Esek Hopkins, Commodore of the Continental

Fleet, dated 22d, brought in their Report, which, being taken into consideration, was agreed to. Whereupon, i?eso/yef/. That Mr. Charles Walker, o[ New-Providence, be paid the value of the Sloop Endeavour, together with four tons of Lignumvitae, and one hundred Cedar Posts,

Providence,

May

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, Lignumvita", and Posts the said

Walker giving a

full

acquittance for the said Vessel,

goods, and damages.

Sundry Letters were

10, 1776.

Congress, and read, viz Two from General IVashington, of the 7th and 8th, together with copies of twenty-one Letters and papers from laid before

:

General Schuyler and others One from the Commissioners in Canada, of the 17th of May; and One from Captain Heman Allen. Resolved, That the said Letters and papers be referred to the Committee appointed on the 6th to consider sundry Letters that day read. ;

A

Letter from Stephen Moylan, Esquire, expressing his Congress for appointing him to the office

grateful thanks to

and a Letter fiom the Convenof Quartermaster-General tion of New- York, of the 7th, were laid before Congress, and ;

Resolved, That the Governour of the Colony of Connecbe requested to appoint judicious and inditierent persons

ticut

to appraise the Vessel and goods aforesaid, at the time when they were taken for the service of the Colonies, and to esti-

mate the full damages sustained by the said Mr. Walker, and report to this Congress forthwith, that the said Walker

read.

Resolved, That the pay of the Continental Troops in the Middle Department be henceforth the same as that of the Troops in the Eastern.

Resolved, That to-morrow be assigned

may

be indemnified by this Congress. 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.

*

The Congress took into consideration the Report of the Committee on the Resolutions of the Convention of South-

made

Carolina, respecting the Battalions raised in that Colony;

and, after some debate. Resolved, That it be recommitted.

being informed that complaint is made with at Oswald. Eve's Mill, Resolved, That Mr. Wisner, Mr. Pai7te, and Mr. R. Livingston, be a Committee to inquire into the defect, and take measures to have it remedied.

The Congress

respect to the

Powder manufactured

Certain Resolutions [Resolved,

That

these L^nited Colo-

and of right ought to be, free and independent that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between

nies are,

States

;

them and the State of Great Britain totally dissolved.

is,

and ought

to be,

the attempt

made

to

for the

appoint-

-whom -was referred the consideration of counterfeit the Bills of Credit emitted by Con-

Report of the Committee

to

gress.

whom was referred the consideration of the attempt of Credit emitted liy Conjjrcss, beg leave to appears to the Committee, hy sundry affidavits, the confessions of the parties charged, and other papers, that Elizabeth Yandine, the wife of Henry Vandine, of .Morris County, in the Province of AewJersey, wiih the privity of her said husband, has counterfeited several bills of the Continental currency, some of which were passed by the said Vandine, and others of them by his wife ; and that the said Vandine and his wife were, for the said olVonee. committed to the jail of the County ol Morris, hy order of the Committee of the Township of Morris. Whereupon, your Committee came to the following Resolutions: That it be recommended to the Provincial Convention of the Province Ttie Conimiltce to

lo counterfeit the Bills

report, that

it

of J\'ew-Jersey to direct the said

Henry Vandine

to

make

satisfaction to

such persons as have been injured by taking the said counterfeit bills. That the said Henry and JClizabelh remain in conlinement, or be let out on good bail for their appearance to abide their trial for the above olTence, as to the said Convention shall seem most proper. That it be recommended to the respective Legislatures of the United Colonies to pass acts of legislation for making the Continental Bills of Credit a lawful tender in all payments, and for the most effectual preventing the counterfeiting thereof.

/S^^>^

c

•^"^ ^e^^^^^^^y^

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1701

ment of a Deputy Paymaster-General

for the

Eastern

De-

Agreeable

to order, the

Congress resolved

itself into a

Com-

mittee of the Whole, to take into their further consideration the Resolutions to them referred and after some time spent ;

reported, that the

Committee have had under consideration

the matters referred to them, and have

which they directed him

tion thereon,

Resolution agreed to

in

come

Resolu-

to a

to report.

Committee of the Whole

being read. Resolved, That the consideration of the first Resolution be postponed to Monday, the 1st 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 prepare 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 independent States; that they

and all allegiance to the British Crown connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved." Resolved, That the Committee be discharged.

are absolved from

Resolved, That the Secret Committee be directed to lend the Committee of Safety of Pennsylvania four tons of

Powder.

The

several matters to this

Adjourned

ral

Resolved, That Letters be sent, by express, to the seveColonies who are to furnish Militia for the defence of

iVew- Fort, acquainting them of the necessity of forwardin" the supplies with all jjossible despatch. Resolved, That the Committee

for

preparing the Decla-

ration consist of five.

The Members chosen Mr. Jefferson, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Franklin, Mr. Sherman, and Mr. R. R. Livingston. :

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.

;

political

all

1702

ordered immediately to march with their Regiments to ISiew-

thereon, the President resumed the chair, and Mx. Harrison

that

1776.

York.

partment.

The

12,

to ten o'clock,

day

referred, being postponed.

to-morrow.

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 Adjourned

day

to this

to ten o'clock,

referred, being postponed,

to-morrow.

Tuesday, June 11, 1776.

Two

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 May, both dated from Northhampton Jail also one from Mrs. Connolly, were read Resolved, That these be referred to the Committee on ;

Prisoners.

Resolved, That the

Indian Interpreter

sum

of 150 Dollars be paid to the and to defray his ex-

for his services,

penses.

Resolved, That a Committee of three be appointed to consider of a compensation 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 Treasurer, in favour of Carpenter Wharton, for the use of the Pennsylvania Battalions, he to be accountable.

The called

presents for the Indians being provided, they in,

and the Speech agreed

to

was

were

delivered, as fol-

We hope the friendship that is between you and us will be firm, and continue as long as the sun shall that we and you may be as one shine, and the waters run people, and have but one heart, and be kind to one another :

;

like brethren.

" Brothers

:

The King

the evil counsel of

of Great Britain, hearkening to

some of

young men,

his foolish

is

angry

we will not let him take away from us our that we have, and give it to them, and because

because

with

us,

land,

and

all

do everything that he bids us ; and hath hindered people from bringing goods to us but we have made provision for getting such a quantity of them, that we hope we shall be able to supply your wants as formerly. " Brothers shall order all our warriors and young will not

his

;

:

men you

We

not to hurt you or any of your kindred, and will

not suffer any of your young

men

we hope

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 of a few necessaries, which we present you with as tokens of our good will towards you." :

12, 1776.

Colonel Roberdeau, on behalf of the owners of the Privateers which have taken some prizes, on board of which was quantity a 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 Money be given them in lieu thereof.

Congress proceeded to the election of a Deputy Paymaster-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, Deputy Paymaster-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 Whereupon, Resolved, That General Washington be di;

:

rected to order the Rifles of such

Regiment

lows: " Brothers

we

Wednesday, June

Letters, of the 9th

as will not reinlist, to

men belonging to the Rifle be purchased, and that the

General order the payment out of the military chest. That the Rifle Regiment be allowed a Drummer and

Company. That 9,000 Dollars be advanced

Fifer to each

to

Colonel Hand, to

purchase an Uniform for the Rifle Regiment, the said sum to be stopped out of the pay of the said Regiment. Resolved, That Captain Grier, who is returned from Virginia with his Detachment, and a number of Recruits, be directed to join the Battalions on their march to J\f«'York, and that Mr. Carpenter Wharton be directed to supply them with Rations. Resolved, That the Secret Committee be directed to deliver to Colonel 3Iagaw, for the use of his Battalion, the one hundred and ninety-one Muskets sent up by Captain

Barry.

The Congress then proceeded Committees voted.

to the

appointment of the

Resolved, That the Committee to prepare and digest the form of a Confederation to be entered into between these Colonies, consist of a Member from each Colony. The Members appointed From J\cw-Hampshire, Mr. 31assachuseits, Mr. 5. Adams: Rhode-Island, Bartlett Mr. Hopkins ; Connecticut, Mr. Sherman; JSeu-York, Mr. ; Pennsylvania, R. R. Livingston ; Neic- Jersey, :

The

presents being delivered, the Indian Chief begged

name to the President the same being Onondaga Chief arose and saluted 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 Natio7is.

leave to give a

;

granted, an

After which the Lidians took their leave, and withdrew.

A

Letter from Brigadier-General Sullivan, dated St. Johns, June 1, was laid before Congress, and read.

Resolved, That Colonel Shee and Colonel

Magaw

be

:

Mr. Dickinson; Delaware, J\lr. McKean ; Maryland, Mr. Stone ; Virginia, Mr. Nelson ; North- Carolina, Mr. Hewes South- Carolina, Mr. Rutledge; Georgia, Mr. Gwinnett. Resolved, That the Committee to prepare a plan of Treabe proposed to Foreign Powere, consist of five. The Members chosen INlr. Dickinson. Mr. Franklin, Mr. J. Adams, Mr. Harrison, and ilr. R. Morris. ties to

:

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1703

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 a Board of War and Ordnance,

1776.

13,

Resolved, That

this

1704

Congress

will,

to-morrow, again re-

Committee of the Wiicle,

solve itself into a

to take into their

further consideration the Reports referred to them.

Adjourned

to ten o'clock,

to-morrow.

to consist of five IMembers.

That

and one or more Clerks be appointed by Congress, with competent salaries, to assist the said Board in executing the business of their de|)artment. 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 a Secretary

Colonies, with their rank and the dates of their respective Commissions and also regular accounts of the state and ;

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 warlike Stores belonging lo 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 warlike Stores, as shall not be employed in actual service, for preserving whereof they shall have power to hire proper Magazines at disposition of the

;

;

the publick expense.

That they shall have the care of forwarding all despatches from Congress to the Colonies and Armies, and all moneys to be transmitted for the publick service by order of Conand of providing suitable escorts and guards for the gress safe conveyance of such despatches and moneys 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 Colonics. That they shall have the care and direction of all Prisoners of War, agreeable 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 drafts of Letters and Despatches 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 WarOffice shall enter on his office, they shall respectively take and subscribe the follovi'ing Oath, a certificate whereof shall be filed in the said office

Thursday, June 13, 1776.

A

Letter from Mr.

McKean, dated two

o'clock this mornand a Letter from the Committee o( Leivistoum, o( the 11th, were laid before Congress.

ing,

Resolved, That the Secret Committee be directed to forward one ton of Gunpowder, 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 Government. That it be recommended to the Assembly o{ Pennsylvania

immediately to order a Battalion of the Provincial Riflemen to

march

of the Militia

to the assistance

Delaware Go-

in

vernment.

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

Commanding

the

Associators

Officer of the Rifle Battalion of

City be requested to order a

this

in

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

McLene, Chairman of

the

Commit-

;

tee of Shippcnshurgh, enclosing certain Resolutions respect-

ing some Powder they have stopped, which was sent by Mr. L. Morris to George Morgan, Esq., at Pittsburgh, was laid before 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 endeavours to have the same forwarded with all safety and despatch to Mr. Morgan, at Pittsburgh.

A was

so help

me God."

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

That

of the said

office.

The Committee Commissioners

in

to

whom

the several Letters from the

Canada and

ftlajor-General

Schuyler,

with the papers enclosed therein, were referred, brought their

in

Report; which was read.

The Commissioners in writing,

to

Canada

also brought in a

Report

which was read.

The Congress

then resolved

itself into

Whole,

to take into consideration

ferred

and

after

sit

again.*

referred to the

a Committee of the

them resome time spent thereon, the President resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported that the Committee have made some progress in the matters referred to them, but, not having finished, directed him to move for leave to *

1th,

from the Convention o[ New-York, Committee appointed the

referred to the

Resolved, That the Secret Committee be directed to stop any salted Provisions which they may

the exportation of

have ordered

to

be inade at

ISleiv- Yorlc.

Resolved, That the Secret Committee be directed to deliver one hundred pounds of Powder to the order of the Committee appointed to contract for the casting of Cannon.

who shall be ordered to be disbanded, shall be sent under 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 publick, shall be there delivered up and deposited in the publick store. Resolved, That General ll'ashington be directed to send into Canada such small brass or iron Field-pieces as he can spare. That Ihe Cannon Committee be directed to procure a number of brass or iron Field-pieces, to be made or purchased immediately. That a proper assortment of iUedicines be sent into Canada. That General H'ashington be directed to order an inquiry to be made into the causes of the miscarriages in Canada, and into the conduct of the officers heretofore employed in that Department and that the said inquitv be made at such places and times as in General Washington's judgment will best conduce to obtain satisfaction thereon and that the result of the said inquiry, together with the testimonies upon the subject, be transmitted to Congress, That the Quartermaster-General be directed lo provide and forward ;

;

suchTents, Clothing, and Utensils, as are wanted for the Army in Canada, subject to the direction of the Commander-in-Chief. That General ll'ashington be permitted to employ the Indians that he may take into the service of the United Colonies, pursuant to a Rein any place where he judges they solution of Congress of the will be most useful and that he be authorized to olfer the I/idia?is a redollars for dollars for every commission officer, and ward of every private soldier of the King's troops that they shall take prisoners in the Indian country, or on the frontiers of these Colonies. That Mr. /. JHease be directed to purchase and forward to the Quartermaster-General in A'e-w-york as much Cloth suitable for Tents as he ,

;

Resolved, That the said two Reports be Committee of the whole Congress.

;

1

or

A B,

do solemnly swear that 1 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) established by Congress, without the leave of the said Board of War and Ordnance, and that I will faithfully execute my said office, according to the best of my skill and judgment, I,

and

6th.

;

"

Letter of the also read,

the Reports to

Resolutions agreed to by the Committee of the Whole, JuxE 12, 1776, relating to Canada, a7ul militarij ojievalions in that quarter.

That no Troops employed in Canada be Jisbanded soldiers in Canada, whose time shall expire, and who

there.

That

all

will not reinlist,

can procure. dollars be given to every Non-Commissioned That a bounty of Officer and Soldier who will inlist to serve during the war. That it be recommended to the Convention of JVew-Yorh to pass an Ordinance empowering General ll'ashington to impress Carriages, and to secure ships and small craft upon Hudson's and the £ast Rivers, when necessary for the service. That the Pennstjlvania Battalion of Riflemen be completed to their original establishment.

I'hat the

Companies of Riflemen from Virginia and Maryland be tiie Regiment completed to the same numi)er with that

regimented, and

from Pennsylvania.

\

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1705 Resolved, That an order

for

600

Dollars be drawn on the James Gricr, he to be ac-

Treusurei-s in favour of Captain

for the same, and to render an account thereof to the Paymaster-General upon his arrival at ISIciv- York.

countable

Resolved, That the pay of the Secretary of the Board of and Ordnance be at the rate 800 Dollars a year.

War

The

Congress having proceeded

Committee following

to form the

Board of

to

War

the

election of a

and Ordnance, the

Members were chosen Adams, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Wilson, :

Mr. J. and Mr. E. Rudedge. Richard Peters, Esq., was elected Secretary of the Board.

The Committee on Qualifications having recommended Dr. Benjamin Allison as Surgeon to the Firet Pennsylvania now

Battalion

Canada;*

in

George Tudor to be Captain of the Company lately commanded by Captain Walter Stewart, in the Third Pennsylvania Battalion

Mr. John Dugnid, as a First Lieutenant Battalion

in

the said Third

A

Letter of the

l."3lh,

from General

Washington, en-

two Letters from Major-G(;neral Schuyler, of the 8th, and sundry other Letters and papers, was laid before Conclosing

and read Resolved, That the same be referred to the Standing Committee on Indian Affairs, and that the Committee be digress,

forthwith.

sit

A

Letter of the l.'3th, from W. Livingston, enclosing a Letter from Thomas Little, of the 2d, was laid before Con-

and read Resolved, That they be referred to the Committee appointed to inquire into and remedy the defects of the Powder manufactured at Mr. O. Eve's Mill. gress,

The Committee to whom were referred the Letters from General Washington, of the 9tli and 10th, and a Letter from the President of the Convention of Neiv-York. with the papers enclosed, brought in their Report which was ;

Battalion

in the said

;

that

Mr. Andrew Graydon

as

an Ensign

in the said

Battalion.

Resolved, That they be accepted, and that Commissions to them accordingly.

be granted

The

Resolved, That the Comtnanding Oflicer in the Barracks in his custody to the Committee of Safety oi Pennsylvania, who are desired to treat him agreeable to former Resolutions of Congress.

;

Mr. Harman Stout, as a Second Lieutenant

And

1706

be directed to deliver the Prisoner

rected to said

14, 1776.

Congress then resolved

itself into

a Committee of

the Whole, to take into their further consideration the Reand after some time spent thereon, ports to them referred

taken into consideration

Whereupon, Resolved, That it be recommended to the Convention of the Colony of ^eiv-York to make effectual provision for detecting, restraining, and punishing disaffected 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

Whereas

necessary.

it

has been represented to

Congress that

this

;

the President resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported that the Committee have made some further progress in the

great quantities of salted

matters referred to them, but not having yet come to a conclusion, desired him to move for leave to sit again.

the supplies of the

Resolved, That

Congress will to-morrow again resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole, to take into their further consideration the Reports to them referred. this

The Marine Committee reported, that complaints are made Commodore E.

against

Captain tices

Jlliipple, for

Hoplcins, Captain Saltonstall, and

breach of orders, and other mal-prac-

Whereupon,

:

Resolved, That the Marine Committee be directed to

Commodore E. Hopkins, Captain Saltonstall, and Captain llliipplc, of the complaints lodged against them, and order them immediately to repair to Philadelphia, to answer for their conduct. inform

Resolved, That

in

case the enemy's Ships of

War attempt

come up the R'wer 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 to

Safety of Pennsylvania.

chased

for exportation,

Beef and Pork have been pur-

which,

Army

if

not restrained,

difficult

and uncertain

may

render

:

Resolved, therefore, That no salted Beef or Pork, except such as may be necessary for the use of the crew, be exported from any of the United Colonies, in any vessel, under any pretence whatever, until the further order of this Congress.

The Committee

appointed to consider of a compensation

their Report which was agreed to, as follows That the sum of 1.200 Dollars be granted and paid, out of the publick Treasury, to Charles Thomson, Secretary to the United Colonies, in consideration of his faithful services ces for one year, ending the 10th of May last.

to the Secretary for his services, brought in

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 Affairs in the Northern Department, be directed immediately to hold a conference with ihe Six Nations to engage them in our interest, upon the best terms that can be procured, and treat with them on the prin;

The

several matters to this day referred, being postponed.

Adjourned

to-morrow.

to ten o'clock,

ciples

and

in the decisive

That General Friday, June 14, 17T6.

Resolved, That an Order

for

1,500 Dollars be drawn on

the Treasurers, in favour of Air. George Evans, Commissary, for the use of the Continental Troops in Dclaivarc Govern-

ment, he to be accountable.

A

Letter of the 10th, from the Committee of Safety of Maryland, was laid before Congress, and read ; also, a Letter

of the 16th of

May, from

the Commissioners in Canada,

recommending Major Dubois

to the notice

of Congress

for

in his Letter.

for

immediately

taking post at Fort Stanwii, and erecting a Fortification there, be approved of; and that General fTashington be instructed to give

him

directions for carrying that

measure

into execution.

Resolved, That the Committee on Spies be directed to and Articles of War, and to make such additions and alterations as they may judge proper, and lay

revise die Rules

the same before Congress for their considei-ation.

A Petition from

Mrs. Gardner was presented to Congress,

and read:

promotion.

Resolved, •

Report of the Committee on Qualifications.

Dr. Benjamin Allison is recommended as Surgeon to the First Pennsylvania Battalion now in Canada. Mr. George Tudor is recommended as Captain to the Company lately commanded by Captain ll'alter Stexsart, in the Third Pennsylvania Battalion.

Mr. John Diiguid

is

recommended

as a First Lieutenant in the said

recommended

as

Battalion.

Mr.

manner mentioned

Schuyler's preparations

Harman

Slout

is

Second Lieutenant

in the said

Battalion.

Mr. .indrew Graydon is recommended as an Ensign in said Battalion. Captain De Hausay (a Fre?ich gentleman) has produced to the Committee credentials of his having been a Captain in the French service, and comes well recommended. It is submitted to Congress whether or not they will grant his prayer in appointing him a Lieutenant-Colonel. The Committee would be glad to have a list of Officers, that they may be proper judges of their seniority.

That

it

he referred to the Committee on Spies.

A

Memorial from the Committee of Safety of Pennsylvania was presented to Congress, and read setting tbnh, that a Committee of the Assembly, accompanied by the General Officers lately in town, and a skilful Engineer, have viewed the Rivet Delaware, and the Fortifications and defences erected at the expense of the Colony of Pennsylvania, to fi(|)pose and prevent the passage of the enemy's and that they have judged it necessary, for further ships security, that a Redoubt should be erected at Billingsport, on the New-Jersey side, and that a Boom should be there thrown acix)ss, or some other obstructions fixed in the Channel and praying, as the place for the Redoubt is out of their Government, aud as their Colony has expended a verj- large ;

;

;

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1707 sum

for the

direct the

defence of

tlie

River, that the Congress would

works to be done

at the

Continental expense

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 obstructions, at the places aforesaid.

TAomasBrt/es, Blacksmith, proposing to supply the ConTroops with a quantity of Camp-Kettles, of SheetIron, at one and one-third Dollar each, provided he can have credit for five tons of Sheet-Iron Resolved, That Timothy Mailack, Esquire, be directed to write to Thomas Mnyberry, oi Mount-Holly, the manufacturer of Sheet-Iron, to send down to him five tons of SheetIron, for which he will be paid on the delivery; and that Mr. Matlack be directed to receive the said Iron, and deliver it out, as it may be wanted, to Thomas Bates, and receive the Kettles as fast as made. tinental

:

The

to ten o'clock,

Resolved, That the President write to Governour Trumhe will deliver to the Agent of the Committee of Safety of Pennsylvania the Cannon and Trucks ordered by Congress to be taken from Neiv-London; and that he be informed the Congress expect this Resolution will be

immediately complied with. Resolved, That the Letters from Governour Trumbull, General Washington, and General Schuyler, be referred to. the Board of War and Ordnance.

Resolved, That the Report of the Committee on General s Letters of the 9th and lOih, which was left unfinished, together with the Amendments moved and se-

Washington

conded, be referred to the Committee of the whole Congress.

Congress then resolved

Saturday, June 15, 1776.

One

from General Washington, of the 14th, enclosing a copy of a Letter from General Schuyler, of the 10th, and sundry other Papers One from Governour 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. Letter from the Committee of Safety of Virginia, of

Powder on account of the Continent, was read Whereupon, Resolved, That one-half of the said Continental Powder

the 5ih, informing of the arrival of five tons of :

be

left in

Virginia, and the other half forwarded to the

manding Officer

in

Com-

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.

»S'.

a

Committee of the

chosen

:

Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Harrison, and

Adams.

The Marine Committee having recommended Mr. Hector McNiel to command the Frigate Boston Mr. John Brown to be Lieutenant of the same Mr. Thomas Grennell to command the Frigate Montgo;

mery ; 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

;

For expenses of

of Claims reported, that there is due sick men belonging to the Sixth Pennsum of 58 30-90 Dollars, and that

The Report

Whole being

from the Committee of the

Resolved, That a Committee of four be appointed to diand arrange the several Resolutions agreed to in the Committee of the Whole, in order to bp laid before Con-

gest

gress ; and that the Committee of the Whole be discharged of the Reports, so far as they relate to the cartel entered into between Brigadier-General Arnold and Captain Forster 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

Committee of the Whole, consideration the Reports to them

resolve itself into a

to take into

their further

referred.

Adjourned

to ten o'clock,

on Monday. Monday, June

from Brigadier-General Armstrong, and one of the 6th of June from the Committee of Albany, were laid before Congress, and read. The Board of W^ar and Ordnance, to whom the Letter of Governour Trumbull, of the 10th oi June, was referred,

brought

in their

Report, which was taken into consideration

Resolved, That it be recommended to the Governour and Assembly of Connecticut to send the two Battalions mentioned in said Letter as raised, one (or Boston, and one with a view to Neiv-York, into Canada forthwith, as proposed in said Letter and that a Battalion of iMilitia be sent to Boston, instead of the one intended for that place. That blank Commissions be sent to Governour Trumbull, ;

for the Officei-s

of the Battalion raised with a view to Netv-

York ;

lars

the expenses of raising the said Regiment.

To

Robert Erwin, Wagonmaster,

Egg-Harbour

to Cooper's

for transporting Salt-

Ferry, the

sum of 210

70-90 Dollars

To

Peter Agneiv,

for repairing

sylvania Battalion, the

The said Committee

sum

Arms

for the Fifth

Penn-

of 11 36-90 Dollars.

Peter Noble, a soldier belonging to Colonel Hinmans Battalion, (Captain Watson's Company,) who was taken prisoner near Montreal, with Colonel Ethan Allen, ought to have the sum of 40 Dollars advanced to him, and his receipt taken for the same, further reported, that

as part of his pay.

It

Ordered, That the said Accounts be paid. being represented to Congress that a number of Offiwhose men left them last winter in Canada, and who remained and served there during the whole winter, were It

cers,

returned, and were desirous of being

and provided

for

some way employed

:

Whereupon,

not to be drawn into precedent.

;

17, 1776.

A Letter of the 7th o^May,

same ought to be paid to Captain Samuel Benezet To Hugh Hodge, for sundry necessaries for the sick of the Third Pennsylvania Battalion, the sum of 34 15-90 Dolthe

de-

livered in,

sylvania Battalion, the

petre from

Reports

them and after some time spent thereon, the President resumed the chair, and Mr. Harrison reported, that the Committee have had under consideration the matters to them referred, and have come to sundry Resolutions thereon, which they ordered him to report but not having yet finished, desired him to move for leave to sit again. ;

P. Peters

A

itself into

to take into their further consideration the

referred to

Sundry Letters were laid before Congress, and read, viz: One from Mr. McKean, of the 13th, and one from Mr.

1708

bull, desiring that

Whole,

to-morrow.

1776.

Resolved, That their 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.

The

matters to this day referred, being postponed,

Adjourned

17,

the present exigency requiring this measure, the

That 10,500 Dollars be

same

paid into the hands of the Dele-

gates of Connecticut, to be sent to that

Colony

to defray

That Governour Trumbull be inf()rmed 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 interior part of that Colony, for the defence thereof, and of the neigh-

bouring Colonies, will by no means answer the object the Congress had in view by their Resolution of the 3d o( June and request that such steps be taken 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 Officei-s

appointed by the Assembly 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 Gunpowder to the Convention oi Netv- Jersey, for the use of their Militia.

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1709

The Committee appointed to digest and methodize the Resolutions entered into by the Committee of tiie Wlioie, having performed that service, brought in their Report, which * Whereupon, Resolved, Tliat an experienced General be immediately sent into Canada, with power to appoint a Deputy AdjutantGeneral, a Deputy Mustermaster-General, and such other officers as he shall find necessary for the good of the service, and to fill up vacancies in tiie Army in Canada, and notify the same to Congress for their approbation. That he also have

was taken

into consideration

:

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 possible, the charge against such Officer: Provided, that this power of suspending Officers and filling up vacancies, shall not be continued beyond the first day of October next. That General Washington be directed to send MajorGeneral Gates into Canada, to take the command of the

power

That no

Officer suttle or

sell to

the Soldiers, on penalty

of being fined one month's pay and dismissed the service Vk-ith infamy, on conviction before a Court-Martial. That the Baggage of Officers and Soldiers be regulated

conformably

to the rules in the

British Armies.

* Tlie Commitlce to iclwm the Report from the Comjiiillte of the whole House was recommitted, have had the same under their consideration, and agreed to the following Resolutions :

Kesolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that an experienced General be immediately sent into Canada, with power to appoint a Deputy Adjutant-General, a Deputy Quartermaster-General, and such other Oliicer.s as he shall find necessary lor the good of the service, and to fill up vacancies in the Army in Canada, and notify the same to Congress That he also have power to suspend any Uflicer for their approbation. there till tiie pleasure of Congress be known, he giving his reasons for so doing in the orders of suspension, and transmitting to Congress, as soon Provided, that this power as possible, the charge against such Officer of suspending Oflicers and filling up vacancies shall not be continued next. beyond the 1st day of October Resolved, 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. Ilesotved, That the Baggage of Officers and Soldiers be regulated conformably to the rules in the British Armies. liesolved, That all sales of Arms, Ammunition, Clothing, and Accoutrements, made by Soldiers, be void. liesolved, 'i'hat no Troops employed in Canada be disbanded there that all Soldiers, in Canada ordered to be disbanded, or whose times of inlistment being expired, shall refuse to reinlist, 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, Accou-

trements, Blankets, and Utensils, which they may have belonging to the publick, shall be delivered up and deposited in the publick Store. Resolved, That Dr. Rotts be employed in the Continental service in the Canadian Department, or at Lake George, as the General shall think dollars per month ; but this appointment best, and that his pay be is not intended to interfere with the office of Dr. Stringer. Resolved, That a Deputy Mustermaster-General be immediately sent

Canada.

General of the Provisions and Stores in the places at which they

may

to be stationed.

Resolved, That the Cleneral to be sent to Canada be directed to view Point-au-Fer, and to order a Fortress to be erected there if he should think proper. Resolved, That the General Officers, Deputy Quartermaster-General, local Commissaries, Paymaster in Canada, and all other persons there who have received publick moneys, be ordered, without delay, to render and settle their accounts on which settlement, no General Officer shall receive pay as Colonel of a Regiment, nor Field-Officer as Captain of a ;

Company. Resolved, That Commissioners be appointed to settle in Canada the debts due on certificates given by Officers to the Ca?mdians for carriages and other services, and to settle also the accounts for such goods as may have been seized through necessity for the use of the Army; that it be given in instructions to them to attend particularly to the case of Mr.

Bernard ! and also that in settling certified debts, they state carefully the names of all those who have given certificates, the nature of the service, and the time when performed and to return the whole when settled and ;

stated to the

sales of

1776.

1710

Arms, Ammunition, Clothing, and Ac-

made by

Soldiers, be void.

That no Troops employed

in

Canada bo disbanded

Canada, ordered

that all Soldiers in

to

times of inlistment being expired, shall refuse to

under proper

there

be disbanded, or whose reinlist, shall

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 [niblick,

be

sent,

officers, to

up and deposited in the publick Store. Deputy Mustermaster-General be immediately sent

shall be delivered

That into

That ed

a

Canada. the local Commissaries and Quartermasters, appoint-

at the difTerent

Garrisons or Posts, shall

make Weekly Re-

turns to the General of the Provisions and Stores in the places at

which they may happen

to be stationed.

Canada be directed to view Point-au-Fer, and to order a Fortress to be erected there, if he should think proper. That the General Officers, Deputy Quartermaster-General, local Commissaries, Paymaster in Canada, and all other persons there who have received publick moneys, be orderon ed, without delay, to render and settle their accounts which settlement no General Officer shall receive pay as That

the General to be sent into

;

of wagonage; that he be empowered to appoint proper officers to superintend the carriage by land, and transportation by water, of provisions, and other things, into Canada, that neither waste nor delay may arise therein ; that he build, with all expedition, as many galleys and armed vessels as, in the opinion of himself and the General Officer to be sent into Canada, shall be sufficient to make us indisputably masters of the Lakes C/iamplain and George; for which purpose it is the opinion of this Committee there should be sent to him a master-carpenter acquainted with the construction of the galleys used on the Deta-ware,

military stores,

who should

take with him other carpenters, and models also, if requisite; be submitted to General Schui/ler whether a temporary Forintrenched Camp, either at Crown Point or opposite to T.conderoga, may be necessary. Resolved, That the Commissary-General be directed to supply the Army in Canada with Provisions, and to appoint proper officers under him to receive and issue the same at the several Posts, taking the directions of the General ; that he be empowered to contract with proper persons in Canada, for supplying the Army there with tresh Provisions; that he be directed to purchase for them a quantity of .ilb any Peas, and to furnish as much Biscuit as may be necessary ; and that his pay be raised to 150 dollars per month. Resolved, That the Quartermaster-General be directed to provide and forward such Tents, Clothing, and Utensils, as are wanted for the Army

and that

it

tification or

Canada, subject to the direction of the Commander-in-Chief. Resolved, That General ll'ashington 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, Quartermasters, and their Deputies, or a Field-Officer on a march, or officer commanding at a detached Post. Resolved, That General ll'ashington be directed to order an inquiry to be made into the conduct of the officers heretofore employed in the Canada Department that the said inquiry be made at such times and places as, in his judgment, shall be most hkely to do justice as well to the publick as to the individuals and that the result of the said inquiry, together with the testimonies upon the subject, be transmitted to Congress; that, moreover, all officers accused of cowardice, plundering, embezzlement of publick moneys, and other misdemeanours, be immediately brought to triah 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 olfences 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. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee that LieutenantColonel Burbeck be dismissed from the Continental service for disobedience of orders. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee that General ITashington be authorized to fill up vacancies in the Army, by issuing commissions to such officers under the rank of Field-Officers as he shall think proper, to supply such vacancy, he making a monthly return to Congress of such appointments, which, unless disapproved of by Congress on such and that blank commissions be sent to return, shall stand confirmed

in

;

;

;

Resolved, That the local Commissaries and Quartermasters appointed Posts, shall make Weekly Returns to the

at the different Garrisons or

happen

all

coutrements,

to

forces in that Province.

into

Tiiat

17.

Board of Treasury,

to

be by them finally examined and

dis-

charged.

Resolved, That the Deputy Paymaster-General be directed to transmit Congress copies of the particulars before-mentioned on the original with the Report and remarks of the Commissioners thereon. Resolved, That General Sclmijler be directed to make a good wagon road from Fort Edward to Cheshire's, to clear Wood- Creek, and to construct a lock at Skenesborough, so as to have a continued navigation for batteaus from Cheshire's into Lake Champlain ; to erect a grand Magazine at Cheshire's, and to secure it by a stockaded Fort to erect a Saw-Mill to

certifica(es,

;

on Sclioon Creek

to order skilful persons to survey

and take the level of the waters falling into Hudson's River, near Fort Edicurd, and those which fall into Hood Creek and interlock with the former, particularly Jones's Run, and Half-lf'aij Brook, the latter of which is said to discharge itselfinto Jl'ood Creek, atCheshire's ; that he be directed to have a greater number of boats and hands kept on /{udson's River, at the dilferent stations between .4Won^ and Fori Edward, in order to save the expense ;

;

the General for that purpose. Resolved, That the pay of such of the Soldiers at .AVa'-roiA- as have been iiilisted at five dollars per montii, be raised to six and two-thirds

month. 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

dollars per

years.

Resolved, That Letters be written to the Conventions of ,\'e-.^Jersey and .Xe-i-York and to the Assembly of Connecticut, recommending tc» them to authorize the Commander-in-Chief in the Colony of .\e-j:-Tork to call to the assistance of that Colony (when necessity shall require it) such of the Militia of those Colonies as may be necessarv'. and to afford him such other assistance as the situation of aflairs may require and that il be further recommended to the Convention of .Xeiir-York to empower the said Commander-in-Chief to impress carriages and water-craft when necessary for the publick service; and also to remove ships and other vessels in Hudson's and the East Rivers, for the purpose of securing them from the enemy. Resolved, That General H'ashington be permilted to employ the In;

dians whom lie may take into the service of the United Colonies, pursuant a Resolution of Congress of the 25th .May last, in any place where he

to

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1711

Colonel of a Regiment, nor Field-Officer as Captain of a

Company. That General Schuyler be

directed to

make

a good

wagon

17,

1712

1776.

him a master carpenter acquainted with the construction of the galleys used on the Delaware, who should lake with him other carpenters, and models also, pose, there be sent to

road from Fort Edward to Cheshire's ; to clear JVoodCreck, and to construct a lock at Slceneshorough, so as to have a continued navigation for batteaus from Cheshire's into Lake Champlain; to erect a grand Magazine at Cheshire's

if requisite

and secure it by a stockaded Fort to erect a Saw-Mill at Schoon Creek ; to order skilful persons to survey and take the level of the waters falling into Hudsmis River near Fort Edward, and those which fall into fVood Creek and interlock with the former, particularly Jones's Run and Half- WayBrook, 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 em-

That the Commissary-General be directed to supply the in Canada with Provisions, and to appoint proper officers under him to receive and issue the same at the several Posts, taking the directions of the General that he be empowered to contract with proper persons in Canada for sup-

;

powered to appoint proper officers to superintend the carby land, and transportation by water, of provisions, military stores, and other things, into Canada, that neither that he build, with all waste or delay may arise therein expedition, as many galleys and armed vessels as, in the opinion of himself and the General Officer to be sent into Canada, shall be sufficient to make us indisputably masters of the Lakes Champlain and George ; and that, for this purriao-e

;

judge they will be most useful and that he be authorized to oflfer a reward of one hundred dollars for every commissioned oflicer, roops that they King's shall take prisoners in the Indian country, or on the frontiers of these shall

;

them

and

thirty dollars for every private soldier of the

I

Colonies.

Resolved, That the Commissioners for Indian Affairs in the Northern Department be directed to use their utmost endeavours to procure the assistance of the Indians within their Department to act against the enemies of these Colonies that they particularly endeavour to engage them to undertake the reduction o! JViag-ara ; engaging on behalf of Congress to pay them one hundred and thirty-three and one-third dollars for every prisoner they shall take and bring to Head-Quarters or to the said ;

Commissioners. Resolved, That the Commissioners for Indian Affairs in the Middle Department be directed to use their utmost endeavours to procure the assistance of the Indians within thei' Department ; that they particularly endeavour to engage them to undertake the reduction of Detroit upon the same terms offered the Indians who shall go against J^'iagara.

Resolved, That the Commissioners in each of the said Departments be directed to employ one or more able partisans, whom the Congress will liberally reward for their exertions in the business to be committed to them. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that there be raised for the service of the United Colonies one Battalion of Germans. Resolved, That the Companies of Riflemen from Virginia and Maryland be legimented, and that the Regiment be completed to the original

number

of the

Pennsylvania Battalion.

Resolved, That the Pennsylvania Battalion of Riflemen be completed to their original establishment.

Resolved, That two Companies of the forces now in the Delaware Counties be ordered to Cape-jllay. Resoh'ed, That the Committee appointed to contract for Cannon, be directed to procure a number of brass or iron Field-pieces, to be made or purchased, immediately. Resolved, That a proper assortment of Medicines be sent to Canada. Resolved, That Mr. .James Mease be directed to purchase and forward to the Quartermaster-General, in Me-w-York, as much Cloth for Tents as

he can procure. Resolved, That proper persons be appointed by Congress to purchase such articles as may be wanted for the use of the soldiers in Canada, and send the same to .ilhany, that they may be forwarded to the Army in Canada ; and that they be particularly attentive to provide in time a sufBcient number of leather Breeches and under Waistcoats, and such other winter clothing as may be necessary for them. Resolved, That the Committee appointed to contract for the making of Shoes for the Army, be directed to forward, with all expedition, to the Quartermaster in Canada, such as are already provided. Resolved, That Prisoners taken by Continental arms be not exchanged

by any authority but the Continental Congress. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee that all Vessels which sailed from the Port or Harbour of Boston whilst the Town of Boston was in possession of the enemy, having on board effects belonging to the enemies of America, and which have been or may be seized, be with the said effects, to confiscation, in the same manner and proportions as have been heretofore resolved by Congress. Resolved, That the Continental Agents in the respective Colonies where no Courts have been established for the trial of captures, have power and be directed to dispose, at publick sale, of such articles of a perishable nature as shall be taken from the enemies of Jlmerica, and that the money arising from such sale be liable to the decree of such Court whenever established. Resolved, 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 lor the purjiose, 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 Mauley and his crew be

liable, together

thereupon transmitted them.

and that it be submitted to General Schuyler, whether a temporary fortification or intrenched camp, either at Crown Point or opposite Ticonderoga, may be neces;

sary.

Army

;

Army

therewith fresh Provisions; that he be directed to purchase ibr them a quantity 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 Quartermaster-General be directed to provide and forward such Tents, Clothing, and Utensils, as are wanted for the Army in Canada, subject to the direction of the Commander-in-Chief. That General fVashington 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, Quarterinasters, and their Deputies, or a Field-Officer on a march, or officer commanding at a detached 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 Neiv- York to call to the assistance of that Colony, when necessity shall require it, such of the Militia of those Colonies as may be necessary; and to afford him such other assistance as the situation of affairs may require and that it be further recommended to the Convention of plying the

;

Neiv-York

to

empower

the said

Commander-in-Chief

to

impress carriages and water-craft when necessary for the publick service, and also to remove ships and other vessels in Hudson's and the East Rivers, for the purpose of securing

them from the enemy. That General Washington be permitted

to

employ the

Indians whom he may take into the service of the United Colonies, pursuant to a Resolution of Congress of the 25th of May last, in any place where he shall judge they will be most useful and that he be authorized to offer them a reward ;

of one hundred dollars for every commissioned officer, and of thirty dollars for every private soldier, of the King's Troops that they shall take prisoners in the Indian country, or on the frontiers of those Colonies.

That the Companies of Riflemen from Virginia and Maryland be regimented, and that the Regiment be completed to the original number of the Pennsylvania Battalion. Tiiat the Pennsylvania Battalion of Riflemen be completed to their original establishment. That two Companies of the forces

now in the Delaware Government be ordered to Cape-May. That the Committee appointed to contract for Cannon, be directed to procure a number of brass or iron Field-pieces, to be made or purchased immediately. That the Committee appointed to provide Medicines, be directed to send a proper assortment of Medicines to

Ca-

nada.

That Mr. James Mease be directed to purchase and forward to the Quartermaster-General in New- York, as much Clotii 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 tiiey be particularly attentive to provide, in time, a sufficient number of leathern Breeches and under Waistcoats, and such other winter clothing as

That

the said

may

be necessary

Committee be

for

them.

directed to forward, with

all

expedition, to the Quartermaster in Canada, such Shoes as are already provided. That Prisoners, taken by Continental arms, be not ex-

changed by any authority but the Continental Congress. That all Vessels which sailed from the Port or Harbour o( Boston, while the Town of Boston was in possession of the

enemy, having on board effects belonging to the enemies of America, and which have been or may be seized, be liable,

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1713 together

witli

tlie

effects, to confiscation, in the

said

manner and proportions

as

same

Head-Quarters

ever established. That the inventory of the Ordnance Stores, taken by Captain Manletj, be sent to General IVashhigton, and that he be requested to appoint a person on the part of the Colonies,

neral to

thereto,



,

Report, which

the Letters from Willia?n Pal-

frey, Esquire, Paymaster-General, were referred, brought in

Whereupon, Report, which was read. Resolved, That the said Letters, with the Weekly Returns enclose^, be delivered to the Superintendents of the Treasury, to be filed in the Auditor-General's Office. their

Adjourned

to ten o'clock,

;

'Doctor Moiigan's Memorial. I am to acquaint this honourable House that the augmentation of the forces already raised and to be raised for the defence of JVort/i-.3merita, which are ordered ior .Xe-ji-i'orh, Boston, and Canada, and the information I have received that the supplying of all the Hospital stores which may be required for these departments will depend on me, put me under the necessity of applying to Congress for such instructions on this head as may enable me to understand what further duties are required from me in the discharge of this important trust to ascertain a little more accurately the nature and extent of my commission and to allow me such further assistance as shall be deemed adequate to the expectations of this honourable House in the discharge

Mr. PtttsiDEST:

referred, being postponed,

late

to-morrow. Tuesday, June 18, 1776.

Sundry Letters were

Congiess, and read, viz One from General Washington, of the 16th, enclosing one from General Ward, of the 9th, and one from William Pallaid before

;

;

frey, ol the 16th.

of

Three from General Schuyler, o^ the 11th and lath.

One

was

had orders drawn upon me from Canada for very any tolerable information of the number of sick and wounded, or in what manner the Congress have hitherto directed provision for that purpose; nor do I know the number of Surgeons allotted for that district, who they are,

A

To

be delivered

in

to the Superintendents of the

Letter from Joseph Tntm^w/?, Commissary-General, of

same he has drawn on the President in favour Mallhnu Erwin, for 60,000 Dollars, and, as he shall be under the necessity of giving orders for purchasing Pork and Flour in Philadelphia, desiring to know whether he may, from lime to lime, continue to draw on the President for the payment of those articles. Resolved, That the President pay such Bills as are or may be drawn by Joseph Trumbull, Esq., for the purposes abovepay

for the

of Mr.

mentioned, and that the same, as paid, be charged to account.

A

his

Letter from the Committee of Safety of Pennsylvania,

requesting the opinion of Congress, whether persons taken

FoDRTH

Series.

—Vol.

vi.

Army,

or

what subordination they are under, or, finally, who is to direct the management of the Hospitals which it may be thought necessary to establish

Weekly Return,

the 17th, informing, that he has found it necessary to order a quantity of Flour to be purchased in Philadelphia, and that to

I

large supplies of medicines, without

read.

Ordered, Treasury.

office.

slate of the

;

Letter from JVilliam Palfrey, with a

my

Already have

Letter from Brigadier-General Sullivan, of the 5th

and 6th, with three papers enclosed and Two from Brigadier-General Arnold, of the 5th and 6th. Resolved, That the aforegoing Letters and papers be referred to the Board of War and Ordnance.

A

Mr. Hewes and Mr. McKean.

Report, which was taken into consideration. Whereupon, 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 Continental 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 regulations, as the Continental Army; and, on the 25th day of March last, resolved, that the Convention or Council of Safety of South- Carolina, be permitted to raise and imbody 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 Continental Congress for their attention to its security; that they stale 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 Continental Congress to allow that Colony so much money as the expenses

table.

day

:

their

read.

several matters to this

chosen

The Committee to whom the Report on the Resolutions of the Convention of South- Carolina, respecting the Battalions raised in that Colony, was recommitted, brought in

wherefore they desired to be discharged. Resolved, That they be discharged.

The

Commit-

to provide Medicines.

the Petition of Colonel Tarbutt Franthey had met on the business referred to them ; that the Indians refused to be examined, or to give evidence on the matter, which prevented their proceeding

whom

to the

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

The Committee on

on the

Members be added

A

cis reported, that

to

Canada.

The Members

The Committee to whom was referred the Cartel between Brigadier-General Arnold and Captain Forsler, for the ex-

lie

New-York.

tee for superintending the Treasury.

;

To

at

Resolved, That two

one on the part of Captain Manky 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 Manley and his crew be thereupon transmitted to them. Resolved, That it be referred to the Delegates of Maryland, Pennsylvania, New- Jersey, and Neiv- York, to devise the mode of raising the Battalion of Germans voted the 25th oi May last. Resolved, That the further consideration of the Report be postponed till to-morrow.

Ordered,

improper that such ex-

Resolved, That General Washington be empowered and directed to nominate and send a Deputy Mustermaster-Ge-

to join

The Committee

it

Resolved, That Gunning Bedford, Esq., Deputy Mustermaster-General, be promoted to the rank of MustennasterGeneral, and that he be directed immediately to repair to

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 when-

in their

ought to be ex-

change be made.

sale,

on Spies brought

river-craft,

for

Safety that the Congress judge

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 dispose, at puhlick

The Committee

1714

seamen taken from the enemy's ships of war? Resolved, That the President inform the Committee of

changed

Congress.

was

1776.

on board merchants' ships and

have been heretofore resolved by

change of Prisoners, and the several papers relating brought in their Report, which was read. Ordered, To lie on the table.

18,

Canada

or at Boston.

The number of Hospital Surgeons and Mates now in employ at .AVwI'orh (though sufficient for the care of the sick at present) may, and it appears to me very probable will, be found unequal to the task of attending all the sick and wounded that may require their aid, increased in proportion to the present augmentation of the Army, should we, as it is looked for, have a vigorous and active campaign there; and I can easily foresee that a great number of both may be sent from Canada for the Add to this, I have never greater conveniences in taking care of them. received any instructions from the Congress relative to the supply of Regimental Surgeons; and as the Commander-in-Chief refeis all matters requiring new appointments, or the discharge of duties not ascertained, to the determination of Congress, I now request I may be instructed in my duties towards Regimental Surgeons, and whether they are any how subject to any regulations that may be devised for the government of the Hospital, and the good of the service. I compute that there are not less than three or four score Regimental Surgeons and Males who were in commission at Cambrids^e, and yet they were destitute (as such) of every article essentially necessary for the care of sick and wounded, (which I mention not as a fault, but a misfortune,) yet presumed they had a right to draw upon the General Hospital for every store they thought proper for the sick under their care. Though I had no instructions that would authorize my compliance, and though I knew it to be contrary to every known establishment of the like nature, yet

108

I

had

it

not in

my power

to

demand from them any

report of the

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1715

of three Battalions, upon the Continental establishment, would amount to for one year, and to give Continental rank to the Officers of the three Regiments raised in Jane, and of the Regiment of Artillery raised in November, from the dates tlieir respective Commissions, or at least from the 4th day

of

when they

Colony three Colony in Congress have represented the peculiar circumstances and heavy expenses of that Colony, and that the Troops raised in it were inlisted for three years, upon a diflercnt establishment of pay, and under different articles of war, so as to render it inconvenient to place them, in all respects, upon of November, Battalions

:

resolved to allow that

And whereas

the Delegates from that

Therefore, the Continental establishment Resolved, That the Battalion of Artillery, and the :

two up

Battalions of Foot, raised in South- Carolina, and kept 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 establish-

ment.

That the two Battalions under the command of Colonels Gadsden and Moultrie, be allowed all the advantages of the Continental establishment, from the 4th day of November last, and the Regiment of Artillery from the time when the same was ordered to be raised by the Provincial Congress, or the Convention of South- Carolina. Tliat the two Battalions of Riflemen, raised in and for

the defence of the said Colony, be considered as Continen-

Troops from the 25th day of March

tal

last,

and be

same. the above-mentioned Troops be

entitled

to all the advantages of the

That

all

Articles for the

That the

government of the

liable to the

Colony. on the Continental es-

forces in the said

said forces be continued

through necessity,

Resolved, That Mr.

Committee

for

Heyward and Mr. Hall be added

to

providing Medicines.

Resolved, That Mr. Rodgers be appointed a

Member

of

the Marine Committee.

Resolved, That a Commissioner be appointed to settle in the debts due on Certificates given by Officers to

Canada

the Canadians for Carriages and other services, and to settle the Accounts for such goods as may have been seized, number

or state of the sick, so as to be a judge of the propriety of granting or refusing what they might demand. And such a door was once opened to them of extracting every kind of expensive store from the General Hospital, that had I not wholly shut that door against them, it is impossible to form any idea to what an amazing extent the expenses of the General Hospital would amount but the Commissary-General has often informed me, that had it not been stopped, the expenses of the sick would equal that of all the well soldiers of the whole Army. Without orders, I have always allowed them every supply of medical articles which they drew for, and which it was in my power to procure. Happily for the service, on the surrender of Boston to the American arms I was put in possession of a large stock of medicine and Hospital furniture, bedding and blankets and by the dint of unwearied application conveyed them to J^"e-wYork at no great charge to the publick. From this store I have already ordered near forty regimental chests, and supplied the wants of the Hospital ; but I have to lament that this stock is now unassorted, and that I am in great want of capital medicines. This ;

;

my present situation. very illy can my presence from the Army be dispensed with. I have the General's positive orders to return within a few days, and my own inclination, as well as sense of duty, concur to hasten my return. But bound to remain in one place, without assistants to collect medical and Hospital stores and chirurgical instruments, (which is more difficult from the great scarcity,) I am compelled to solicit an immediate supply from Congress; and likewise that, in case of action, old linen, &c., may be furnished with speed, in addition to what I have been able of myself to collect. Not to be too troublesome, or to take up too much of the precious time of this honourable House, I will only add, that all the weight of taking care of the sick and wounded naturally falls on the Hospital Surgeons and Mates, and that the Regimental Surgeons and Mates are comparatively of little use till they arc placed in some subordination ; and as their pay is increased, the Mates of the Hospitals appear very desirous to remove into regiments till a better regulation takes place; and, that I conceive that to answer the purposes of a General Hospital, without greatly increasing the expense, if not now, yet hereafter, some small stoppages must be made somehow on the men's pay; and that to conduct all these matters lo a happy issue, the Congress will think it highly expedient to appoint a Committee to confer with me, and to whom I can make the affairs of my department known, for the sake of a complete regulation of it; which is humbly submitted to the consideration of this honourable want must

The

daily increase in

time

House. June

1716

for the use

of the

Army;

that

it

be given

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 Certificates, 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 said Com-

missioner.

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 property, 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 Observation of the District wherein 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 authority for examination

and

trial.

Information being given that some of the Officers who were Prisoners at hebanon, 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

Adjourned

That not more than one-third of the effective men of the above-mentioned forces be ordered out of the said Colony,

the

1776.

in

tablishment until the expiration of their inlistment, unless they shall be sooner disbanded by Congress.

without the express order of Congress, or the consent of the President of that Colony.

19,

to ten o'clock,

day

referred, being postponed,

to-morrow.

Wednesday, June

19, 1776.

A Letter from the Convention of New-Jersey of the 18th, enclosing an Ordinance for raising three thousand three hundred Militia for the defence of New- York, together with their

proceedings

apprehending William Franklin, Esq.,

in

late

Governour of that Colony, was laid before Congress, and Whereupon, read. Resolved, That it be recommended to the Convention of New-Jersey to proceed 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, and then the Congress will direct the place of his confinetiient, they concurring in sentitnent with the Convention o( New-Jersey, that it would be improper to confine him in that

Colony.

of War and Ordnance, to whom sundry Letand papers were referred, particularly one from General Washington of the 16th, brought in their Report, which was

The Board

ters

Whereupon, taken into consideration. Resolved, That the Commissions granted by BrigadierGeneral Sullivan to sundry Officers in Canada, mentioned in General Washington's Letter, be approved and confirmed, provided General Gates and the General Officers in Canada, on consultation,

shall think the

measure

will

conduce

to the

publick service.

That 300,000 Dollars be at

New- York,

for the use

sent to the Paymaster-General

of the

Army.

is critical;

The Committee

To John of

of Claims reported that there

due

sum

33 10-90 Dollars; To John Bruce, the sum of 13 36-90

Dollars, being the balance of his Bill for Cartouch-boxes To Joseph Feinauer, 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 Jail by order of Congress 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 he, the sum of 27 20-90 Dollars, and that the a Wagon, same ought to be ])aid to Samuel Hillegas, Esq. To Mary Thomas, for nursing and boarding two of Captain Benezefs men in the Small-Pox, the sum of 12 Dollars.

18, 1776.

is

Jervis, for Horse-hire, Ferriages, &;c., the

Ordered, That the said Accounts be paid.

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1717 A

Muster-Roll of the Ninth Virginia Battalion, commanded by Colonel Flcmming, taken the 3 1st ol' Mai/ last, was laid before Congress.

Whereupon, Resolved, That the

said Battalion

into Continentid pay from the said 31st

Resolved, That one ton of

Commanding

Colonel or

That

be taken

day of Mai/.

Gunpowder be

To Abraham in the

Committee for preparing Medicine-Chests be 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 fore Congress, and read. Resolved, That it be referred to the Committee

laid be-

viding Medicines.

Whereas

it is

indispensably necessary for the good of the

service that the soldiers of the United Colonies be well pro-

vided with Blankets and Clothing

:

be recommended to the Assemblies and Conventions of the United Colonies forthwith 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 manufactured, or otherwise procured at reasonable rates in their respective Colonies, for each Soldier of the ^«€r;ca« Army inlisted therein for the present campaign, 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 ^me-

That

Therefore, Resolved,

it

Army.

Cooper,

for

to

whom

;

On

produced by H. Wisner, Esq., the expenses of the First Pennsylvania Battalion, at Goshen, and that the same ought to be paid to Henry Wisner, Esrj., and charged to J. Shallus, Quartermaster of the said Battalion. Ordered, That the said Accounts be paid.

sum

two

of

1 1

Certificates

45-90

Dollai-s,

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.

The Members chosen Mr.

Ellery, and

The

Mr. Paine, Mr. Leivis. :

referred, brought in their Report which was taken into consideration. Resolved, Whereupon, That the resignation of TViUiam

Adams be accepted. The several matters Adjourned

till

to this

day

referred, being postponed,

ten o'clock, to-morrow.

Jlr.

F. Lee,

51r.

matters to this day referred, being postponed. 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 ConResolved, That the der ordered to

Commanding

Delaware Guard with the PowColonel Flemming's Regiment on the EastOfficer of the

ern-Shore of Virginia. Resolved, That an Order for 300,000 Dollars be drawn in favour of the Delegates of South- Caro-

on the Treasurers lina, for the use

of the Continental Battalions

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 Britannick ^lajesSeventh Regiment of Foot, the sum of 36 Dollars,

ty's

Baggage from New-York to Philadeljjhia, together with the Baggage of Captain 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

A

Letter of the 17th, from General Washington, and a Letter from the Convention 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

A

Petition from Carpenter IVharton

was presented

Congress, and read. Resolved, That it be referred to the Board of

War

to

to-morrow. Resolved, That a Committee of three be appointed to draw up Rules and Regulations for the conduct of the House during debates.

for

State-House, which was twenty days To Michael Clark, for Liquor for the above Indians, the sum of 27 66-90 Dollare.

Ordered, That the said Accounts be paid.

A sey,

Letter of the 21st, from the Convention of ^ew-Jfrlaid before Congress, and read, together with sun-

was

in

Burlington.

Resolved, That the pay of the Commissioner to be sent into Canada be four Dollai-s a day.

The Board

of ^Var and Oi-dnance, to whom was referred who served last winter in Canada,

which w as taken into consideration in Whereupon, Resolved, That the Convention of Ac ic- York be requested to set on foot the raising another Regiment on biought

a Report

:

Mr. Rutledge, Mr.

Jefferson,

and

The Committee

of Claims reported that there is due Captain William Richards, for the detention of his Shallop twenty days on the publick service, the sum of 40

:

;

Continental establishment, to serve for three

yeai-s,

or during

and that in 'forming the said Regiment, they commission such Officers as served in the last campaign in Canada, and have not yet the war, unless sooner discharged by Congress

been provided

;

for.

be informed that the Commissions 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 reconmiended to the said Convention to make suitable provision for JMajor Dubois, with whose good con-

That the

chosen

Mr. Paine.

Dollars

of 120 23-90 Dollars,

the case of the Officers

The Congress took into consideration the Report of the Committee on the Cartel between Brigadier-General Arnold and Captain Forster for exchange of Prisoners; and after debate, the further consideration thereof was postponed till

To

To Andrew McNair, the sum

Provisions, &ic., for the twenty-four Indians wh'de at the

and

Ordnance.

The Members

sum

238 Dollars

dry Letters from the Prisoners

otherwise.

for

eighteen weeks' allowance, and 12 Dollars for bringing his

of

Thursday, June 20, 1776.

HaU,

Adjourned

the Petition of Jlllliam

Adams, Surgeon, was

sum of

for one Team haulin" the Baggage of Captain Williams's Company eighteen miles beyond Goshen, and two Teams hauling the Baggage of Captain Jones's Company to Albany, the sum of 414 .54-90 Dol-

Battalion be directed to send a proper

The Marine Committee,

New- York

26 12-90 Dollars To Leonard Sioneburner,

chase of the

That the Commander-in-Chief of the American Army be empowered to draw on the Assemblies and Conventions for such articles of Clothing as aforesaid as he shall from time judge necessary, and that the cost thereof be deducted from the pay of the Soldiers who shall receive the same, by the proper ofBcer for examining and discharging the Accounts and Pay-Rolls of the respective Regiments.

to

'-i'-i 86-90 Dollars; Ferriage and Storage, the

necticut.

articles aforesaid.

carrying Captain

Mills, for nursing and boarding six Soldiers

That sufficient sums of money be granted to the Assemand Conventions aforesaid, on applying for the same, to enable them to discharge the demands arising from the pur-

blies

Wafona''e, the

Small-Pox, the sum of

To Samuel

lars

for pro-

for

James Gricr's Baggage from Fredericlcshurgh and returning home, the sum of 147 Dollars;

sent to the

Officer of the said Battalion.

171S

Robert Erivin, Wagonmaster,

sum of 207 ;30-90 Dollars; To David Williamson, for Wagon-hire,

the

directed to

rican

To

21, 1776.

to

said Officers

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1719

duct Congress are well satisfied, and that they return his name, with the names of the other Field-OlKcers, for the approbation of Congress. That a Commission of Lieutenant-Colonel be given to Major John Visschcr, in Colonel John Nichohons Regiment,

New- York forces. The Congress then resumed

in the

the consideration of the ReCommittee of the Whole Whereupon, Resolved, That General Washington be di-

port from the

rected to order an inquiry to be

made

the Officers heretofore employed

ment

;

that the said inquiry be

as, in his

judgment,

made

into the

the

in

at

conduct of

Canada Depart-

such time and places

be most likely to do justice, as

shall

25, 1776.

two months, the remainder

1720 Horse

for a

for the Continental

service.

Ordered, That the said Account be paid. Resolved, That the Report on the Cartel for exchange of Prisoners, entered into between Brigadier-General Arnold and Captain Forster, be recommitted.

The 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

membersof suchColony; and that visiting, or

making a temporary

all

pereons passing through,

any of the

stay in

said Cololaws during the or temporary stay, owe,

well to the publick as to the individuals ; and that the result of the said inquiry, together with the testimonies upon the

nies, being entitled to the protection of the

subject, be transmitted to Congress

during the same, allegiance thereto.

that, moreover, all Offiaccused of cowardice, plundering, embezzlement of publick moneys, and other misdemeanours, be immediately And whereas Congress is informed that brought to trial. 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. ;

cers

The

several matters to this day referred, being postponed.

Adjourned

to nine o'clock,

on Monday. Monday, June 24, 1776.

Two

and 21st, from General l¥ashington, with sundry papers 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 Stockhridge Indians, mentioned in one of the enclosed papers and that a like Letter be written to Governour Trumbull. Letters, of the 20th

;

time of such passage, visitation,

That

all

persons,

members

of,

or owing allegiance to,

any

of the United Colonies, 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 others the 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 persons before described as shall be provably 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, persons who shall counterfeit, or aid or abet in counterfeiting, the Continental Bills of Credit, or who shall pass any such Bill in payment, knowing the same to be counterfeit. Resolved, That the remainder of the said Report be re-

committed.

2 1st, from the Convention o^ New- Jersey, was laid before Congress, and read, together with sundry papers enclosed therein, containing the questions proposed to fVilliain Franklin, Esq., an account of his behaviour on the occasion, and the Resolution of the Convention, " declaring him a virulent enemy to this country, and a pei-son that may prove dangerous, and that the said IVilliam Franklin be confined in such place and manner as the Continental Congress shall direct:" Whereupon, Resolved, That William Franklin be sent under guard to Governour Trumbull, who is desired to admit him to his parole but if Mr. Franklin refuse to give his parole, that Governour Trumbull be desired to treat him agreeable to the Resolutions of Congress respecting Pri-

The Committee to consider what Harbours are proper to be forufied, brought in their Report ; which was read. Ordered, To lie on the table. Resolved, That the said Committee be empowered to draw on the Treasurers for a sum of money sufficient to defray the expenses of surveying and examining the Ports.

soners.

Ordered, To lie on the table and that the President write to General Washington, and request him to inform Congress of the cost of a Ration, as furnished by die Commissary-General.

A

Letter, of the

;

A Petition from Antoine Felix Wiebert was presented to Congress, and read. Resolved, That the same, together with the papei-s accompanying

it,

be referred to the Board of

War

and Ord-

nance.

The Board

of

War

and Ordnance, to whom was reWharton, brought in their

ferred a Petition from Carpenter

Report

;

which was read. ;

Resolved, That Mr. Mease be directed to advance to Captain Matthew Smith, of the Rifle Battalion, 1,040 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 forward to the Paymaster-General an account

of the Moneys advanced and ordered 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 stopped at New-

York by

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

A

Memorial from Captain Stephen

Washington, with sundry Letters from Major-General Schuyler, Brigadier-General Sullivan, Btigadier-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.

the order of the Quartermaster-General: 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 MassachusettsBay immediately.

counts.

Resolved, That a Committee, to consist of one Member from each Colony, be appointed to inquire into the causes of

Resolved, That the same be referred to the Committee on the Treasury.

the miscarriages in Canada.

The Marine Committee having recommended Captain Samuel Nichols to be promoted to be Major of Marines Andrciv Porter, Joseph Hardy, Samuel Shaw, Benjamin Deane, and Robert Mullin, to be Captains of Marines Daniel Henderson, David Love, Franklin Reed, and Peregrine Brown, to be First Lieutenants of Marines James ISlcClure, William Gilmore, Abel Morgan, and Hugh Montgomery, John Stewart to be to be Second Lieutenants of Marines Captain ; Thomas Pownal First Lieutenant, and Richard

That

the said

Committee have power

to

send

for

persons

and papers.

The Members chosen Mr. Whijjple, Mr. Paine, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Clinton, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Paca, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Hewes, Mr. Middlelon, and Mr. Hall. :

Rowe Bradley was

presented to Congress, and read, together with sundry

;

;

The Committee

of Claims reported that diere is due Bedford, the sum of 202 Dollars, of which sum 103 Dollars and 30-90ths, for pay and subsistence for

To Gunning

;

Ac-

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1721

Harrison Second Lieutenant of Marines,

Maryland John LangJon, Esq., lony of Nciv- Hampshire

for the

Frigate

Resolved, Tiiat

to

to

tiiey

to

be Agent of Prizes

for

the

Co-

be approved, and that Commissions

them accordingly.

Resolved, That the Secret Committee be directed to sell John Maxwell Ncsbit Iff Co. one hundred and twenty-

pounds of Powder,

five

for the

use of the Privateer they

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.

to

Resolved, That the following gentlemen be appointed

Lewit Dubois; their Commissions to be given them as soon as their complement of men shall be raised Jacobus S. Rniyn, Lieutenant-Colonel William Goforth, Major David Dubois, First Captain Elias Van BanschoThomas De Witt, Third Captain ten. Second Captain :

;

;

;

;

to four o'clock.

EoDEM

A

be employed as an Engineer in the Continental to General Washington 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 emj)loy him in such way as he shall judge will best conduce to the good of the service, and answer Mons. Weibert's request. plies

Officers of the Battalion to be raised under Colonel

are fitting out.

Adjourned

1722

Army, be recommended

building in

be granted

26, 1776.

Isaac Wool, Fourth Captain ; Philip D. B. Bevier, Fifth Captain Richard Piatt, Sixth Captain Albert Pawling,

Die, P. M.

Declaration of the Deputies of Pennsylvania, met

Provincial Conference, was laid before Congress, and read

expressing their willingness to concur in a vote of gress, declaring the

of

United Colonies Free and Independent

War

and Ordnance, to

whom

;

;

the several

Letters received this morning were referred, brought in their

Report which was taken into consideration Whereupon, Resolved, That the number of men destined for the Northern Department be augmented to four ;

Seventh Captain and Cornelius T. Jansin, Eighth Captain James Gregg, Aaron Austin, Jonathan Piercy, Evans Wherry, Garret Van Wagcnan, Henry Vandenburg, Nathaniel ConJdin, and Henry Dodge, as First Lieutenants Daniel Gano, Second Lieutenant in the Firet Company; John Coates, Surgeon and Henry Dubois, Adjutant. ;

;

Con-

States.

The Board

;

;

in

:

Resolved, That the President write to the Convention of New- York, and explain to them the reasons that induced the Congress to enter into the foregoing Resolution

;

and

to

request the Convention to appoint the other Officers of the

and to use their best endeavours in equipping and forwarding the said Battalion as soon as possible. Battalion,

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 Commisthe Arms of sion until his Company be raised and armed 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 iVcioHampshire, to send immediately one Regiment of their Mili-

Massachusetts-Ray, two Regiments of their Militia to Connecticut, and one Regiment of their Militia to augment the Troops destined for the Northern Department. That Letters be sent to the General Assemblies of the Colonies from whence the several Regiments of Militia are and have been requested, earnestly pressing them to be expeditious in raising and equipping their Troops, and requesting the several Assemblies to take upon themselves the care of providing the said Troops with Clothes, Tents, and

tia to

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 Dr. Bond, the sum of 9 30-90 Dollars for Medicines and attendance for three Indians To Benjamin Armitagc, for boarding and lodging TTiomas Folmer, the Indian Interpreter, twenty days, the sum of 12 25-90 Dollars To Richard Cheney, the sum of 4 82-90 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 At/son'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 To John Osborne, the sum of 8 Dollars, namely: 6 Dollar for boarding and lodging a sick Soldier, and 2 Dollars for a Coffin for one of Captain J an Zant's men To George Hawcs, for Wagon-hire, &,c., carrying iMoney to Cambridge at the time Mr. Franks went, the sum of

To

;

;

;

necessary Camp-Equipage, and assuring them that the United Colonies will be answerable for the expense of the same. That a Regimental Paymaster, 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 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. all

Resolved, That a Committee be appointed immediately New-Yofk, and confer with General Washington, and the other Generals there, with power to agree upon to repair to

and take the proper

steps for carrying into execution such

further measures as, on consideration of all circumstances, shall

be judged most advisable in the present situation of Canada and the neighbourhood of the Lakes. *

affairs in

The

several matters to this day referred, being postponed.

Adjourned to nine o'clock, to-morrow.

70 40-90 Dollars To iNIessrs. Hanson, Donaldson, and Franks, for carrying Money to the Camp in March last, the sum of 238 28-90 Dollai-s

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, k.c., to Colonel Miles, at Marcus Hook; ;

To Henry Haller, the sum of 645 46-90 Dollai-s 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 dit Reading, 12 89-90 Dollars; expenses of Prisoners from St. Johns and Chambly to 8th of June, 538 47-90 Dollars Mr. Holler's pay, as Commissary, from the 30th of March to the 7th of June, seventy :

:

;

;

days, at Is.

6(/.,

70

Dollars.

Ordered, That the said Accounts be paid. Wednesday, June 26, 1776.

A

Letter of the 21st, from General Washington, and one of the 26th, from Brigadier-General Wooster, were laid before Congress, and read. Ordered, That the Letter from Brigadier-General Wooster to the Committee appointed to inquire into the causes of the miscarriages in Canada.

be referred

The Board

of

War brought

in a Report, which was taken Whereupon, Resolved, That Mons. Antoine Felix Weihert, who ap-

into consideration.

*

On reconsideration

next day, ordered to be expunged.

Resolved, That a bounty of ten Dollai-s be given Non-Commissioned Officer and Soldier who will

to

every

inlist

to

serve for the term of three years.

Ordered, That the Resolutions passed yesterday be sent General Washington, 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 expedient for the publick service. to

A Paragraph of a Letter from General JVashiiigton to one of the Members, being laid before Congress, and read,

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JUNE

1723 Resolved, That

be referred to the Board of

it

War and

Ordnance. Resolved, That the Secret Committee be directed to supply the Marine Committee with one ton of Gunpowder, for the use of the vessel which they

were

this

morning empow-

;

be desired to send left

Resolved, That Michael Hillegas, Esq., be empowered and directed to pay such sums of Money as ai-e or may be due to the several signers of Continental Bills of Credit, for their services, agreeable to the Resolve of Congress for that

size,

The Committee

whom was

to

Jfilliam Whiting, a Soldier,

Army

tinental

at

referred the Petition of

who was wounded

Quebeck, brought

in the

their Report,

in

Con-

which

was read Whereupon, Resolved, That the sum of twenty Dollars be paid out of the publick Treasury

to

William Whiting, in Con-

enable him to return to his family at Norfolk,

to

The Committee on

whom

were referred the Petition and Accounts of Stephen Roive Rradley, the Treasury, to

Whereupon, brought in their Report. Resolved, That there be paid to Stephen Roice Bradley the sum of 691 22-90 Dollars, for the service of himself and

Company, from the 25th day of January to the 25th day of February, during which time they were employed in his

the service of the Continent.

matters to this day referred, being postponed,

Adjourned

to nine o'clock,

to-morrow.

Letter of the 17th, from Governour Trumbull, was laid

before Congress, and read

two

one from Colonel John Broivn, the other from William Holton, were ;

also,

Petitions,

read.

Resolved, That the Petition from Colonel Brown be reCommittee appointed to inquire into the causes of the miscarriages in Canada. That the Petition from Wlliam Holton * be referred to ferred to the

the

Cannon

Board of

War

and Ordnance.

Resolved, That an Order for twenty-four Dollars be drawn on the Treasurers in favour of Major Bicker, he to be

Letter from the Commissioners for Indian Affairs in the Southern Department, 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 ia their Report, which was taken into consideration. Whereupon, Resolved, That six Companies of Riflemen,

Sundry Letters from the Southward, being received by express, were laid before Congress, and read, viz One from General Lee, dated Little-River, June 6th, one from John Rutledge, Esquire, enclosing two to him the other from Brigadier-General Armstrong both dated Charlestoivn, South- Carolina, June 4th, advising that fiftyone sail of the enemy were arrived there, and lying in sight





Town.

to this

and Ordnance.

*Petitio7i o/ William Holtoit, referred to

before

Board of

fl'ar,

and

Board of TVar. Wth, read

referred for further consideration.

gress.

excuse

:

If the

manner of

application

is

not in form, beg,

sir,

you

will

it.

was born, and have now

a family, in this city; but with the hope of gaining a support for a future day, and having a very great prospect before me, I went to Queliech, and there set up and followed my business, I

is hat making, and found it answered beyond my expectation. I engrossed the good will of the inhabitants in general for near two years, until those unhappy disturbances commenced, at which time I frequently, and with some warmth, expressed myself for the glorious cause for which we are now contending, but was taken up and confined in Jail for thirtyseven days upon suspicion of supplying General .Irnold with arms and ammunition ; for the space of which time, they gave me three common loaves of bread, and no other subsistence save water ; at the expiration of which time I was released, and ordered to leave town the next day, leaving all I was worth in the world behind me, and deprived of bringing my books or anything but my clothes along with me. I left Quebeck on the morning of the 5th of December, and joined the bravo, though unfortunate, General Monlgomery, as a volunteer. That gentleman, a few days after, was pleased to appoint me Conductor of Military Siores, with great assurances of future good offices; but by that gentleman's unfortunate fall, I have been neglected. At the storming of (^HcAerA- I had the honour to lead Genexa.\ .irnold' party as a guide, but was unfortunately wounded at the taking of the tirst battery, and was brought ofi' and continued in the Army before

which

of

list

the vacancies in the

all

Officers as

he can recom-

The Committee of Claims

reported that there is due Robert Erivin, Wagonmaster, the sum of 241 51-90 Dollars, a balance of three Teams that went to North- Ca-

To

rolina with

Powder;

To

Dr. Frederick Phyle, for Medicines and attendance of the Fifth Pennsylvania Battalion, from the time of their imbodying to the 13th of June, 1776, the sum of 532 51-90 Dollars

To John Bates, 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 Steiuard to be charged with 13 30-90 Dollars, for nursing and boarding the man he wounded in the State-House yard the ;

is

;

remainder to the Continent to Colonel T. Matlack

To Rachel Hewen, That

two

the

;

the said

24 Dollars

sum of 5 30-90

to

be paid

Dollars, for nurs-

Army; sum of 7 Dol-

Soldiers of the Continental

there be repaid to Robert

Moore

the

which was stopped out of his pay by Captain M. Smith, same having been by him expended for Provisions, when was left sick by his Company in Canada. he Ordered, That the said Accounts be paid.

lars,

the

Quebeck

all

the winter, until the 6th of

May, when

Point Beschambault, from thence

the whole

Army

got permission of General .irnotd to return to Phitadetpbia, with assurances of that gentleman's friendship; but through hurry and neglect I declined getting his recommendation, but trust there are gentlemen in this city who will give me the character of a soldier and a gentleman. I beg, sir, you will lay my situation before the honourable Congress, and in whatever station they are pleased to appoint me, I hope I shall act with honour to my country, and to the satisfaction of that honourable body. Your laying my unfortunate situation before that honourable Board, will do me great honour, and greatly oblige, sir, your Honour's retreated to

Being just arrived from C'anarfa, after a most fatiguing campaign, take this method of applying to the honourable the Continental Con-

Sir

Congress a complete

Army, and the names of such mend for filling them.

ing and boarding

Brigadier-General Lewis, dated Williamsburgh, the ISth of the same month, enclosing one to him from General Lee, of the 4th. Resolved, That the said Letters be referred to the Board

War

addition

;

One from

of

in

Companies now at New-York, be raised, and the whole regimented and that a Commission be granted to Captain Stephenson 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 the eldest Moses Raivlings, from Maryland, lately of the Rifle Companies, be Lieutenant-Colonel, and the Captain of the other Company, Otho Holland Williams, jMajor 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 the three

accountable.

of the

there.

A

;

Thursday, June 27, 1776.

A

Congress an account of the Cannon

to

ISew-London by Commodore Hopkins, their number, bore, and weight, and also an account of the other

at

;

necticut.

The

1724

The Congress then took into consideration the Letter from Governour Trumbull ; and, after some debate. Resolved, That the further consideration thereof be postponed and, in the mean while, that Governour Trumbull

ered to purchase.

purpose.

27, 1776.

to Sorel.

I there

William Holton.

most obedient, most humble servant,

Philadelphia, June 26, 1776.

To

the

Honourable John Hancock, Esq.

To Being

called

the

Honourable Continental Congress:

upon by Mr. William Holton, formerly Conductor of

Military Stores in the camp before Quebeck, for both his private and publick character there, we do hereby certify that that gentleman has

behaved himself

like a soldier

This the

is to certify

subscriber

in every respect.

Lkwis Dubois, Colonel. S. Bavrs, Lieut.

that Mr. William Holton, late

Col.

Conductor of Stores in

in Canada, behaved himself while in that stagood soldier and a gentleman in every respect, so far as the Johx Biiown, Colonel. was acquainted with him.

camp near Quebeck,

tion like a

and a gentleman

Jacohus

June 26, 1776.

June 27, 1776.

CONTINENTAL CONGRESS, JULY

1725

Resolved, That the pay of Dr. Huston, wIjo was appointed Surgeon to the Fifth Fcnnsykania Battalion, be stopped till further orders of Congress, and that the Pay-

them

1,

1776.

1726

declaring the United Colonies independent of 6Vea< Britain, entering into a Confederation for union and coinmrjn in

master be notified thereof.

defence, making treaties with foreign nations for commerce and assistance, and to take such other measures as may ap-

The Committee to whom it was referred to devise a mode of raising the German Battalion voted on the !^o\nici\ Secretary North-Carolina Glasgow, James, . . Council of Safety, G/enn, Jb/tra, appointed Major of Virginia Militia, Goddard, William, Petition of, to Congress, God.dard, Miss, com\AA\\noi, to Baltimore Committee, Godwin, Captain, Royal Artillery, made prisoner at

Chambly,

1460 75 431 1443 1519 1012 1460

1722 - 1680 Gold Committee, Report of the, GoWiffii/A, Dame/, Marshal of New-York, 766 - 1347 Is appointed Keeper of the Congress Jail, Gondola, the Canada Commissioners ask for an armed, 587 Gondolas, Schuyler asks for a Constructor of, 641 Philadelphia supplies beer to her, 653 Ammunition is furnished to same, 655 Maryland sends to Philadelphia for Models of, 682 -

-

689

-

-

741 1466

air,

-------

remanded to jail, Report on the case of, Sentence passed upon,

Is

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Goodrich, John, Jun., required to take the oath, Goodwin, Stephen, appointed Captain of Connecticut

------------

Militia,

1530 1543 1550 1553 ] 557 1559 1560 1583

373

Goodwin, Charles, appointed Ensign of Connecticut Militia,

Goodyear,

873

Jesse, appointed Lieutenant of Connecticut

Militia,

874

Gootchins, J. M., appointed Ensign of New-Jersey

1639

Militia,

Gordon, Mr., moves the Previous Question

in

House

of Commons, 116 Speech of, on Mr. T. Townshend's Motion, 259 Gordon, miliam, Letter from, to General Gates, - 1041 Gordon, Joshua, appointed Quartermaster of NewJersey Militia, 1640 Gordon, Peter, appointed Brigade Major of New-Jersey Militia, 1653 - 1350 Goshen, Return of Officers elected in, - 1459 Gough, H. D., a Non-Associator, disarmed, -

Gould, John, is instructed to vote for Independence, 703 Gould, Captain Benjamin, Letter from, to Washington, 1016 Government, clashing jurisdictions unavoidable in a free,

The

-------

nature

explained,

of,

Mr. Mellish's opinion

of,

Despotick tendencies of

New-England Frequent

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Monarchical,

-

all,

hostile to a

resort to

-

principles

first

-

true objects of

all,

-

-

113 134

the perfec-

tion of,

The

09 30 49

-

-

A

new, recommended to the Colonies, Boston views of the nature of, Argument on the necessity of a new, Loose Thoughts of " Democraticus " on, Proceedings of a New- York Committee in . relation to a new, Address to the Virginia Convention on the

139 193 466 557 623 730

743

Arguments

748 749 752 753 825

A

841

subject

The

of,

-

various forms

-

of,

-

of,

-

-

-

-

-

-

for Virginia,

-

examined,

Distribution of the powers

Outlines

-

recommended

of,

-

in favour of a new, in New-York, form of, for the Colonies considered, Action of the Pennsylvania Conference on, Form of, proposed by Anne Arundel, JMary-

land,

-

-

-

-

-

-

952 1093

-----

New- York Congress on

in

A

adopted

of,

Form

in

Virginia,

.

1,3.32

13.38

...

I.595

of Constitution under the new,

Vote on the Resolve tion to

form

in

Governour' s Island, orders

to

-

a,

-

-

1598

-

-

-

complete works on,

salary of, fixed in Virginia,

-

-

.

1628

-

534 1599 1599

-

Election of, by the Convention of Virginia, Governours, unfitness of, for Commissioners, Govett, William, Secretary to the Philadelphia Com-

.-.--.

mittee,

1496

New-Jersey Conven-

-

a,

tiic

-

Committee report a draft of a new, Maryland Convention take steps to form

Govcmour, 711

Maryland Council of Safety contract for, Goodrich, John, required to give bond by Virginia . . . . Convention, His wife permitted to visit him in Jail, His wife petitions the Virginia Convention, Chains removed from, and he allowed country

Government, d(;batc form of,

Plan

535 Goforth, Captain JVilliam, returns from Canada, Arrives at Fort George, 479 Congress promote him to the rank of Major, 1082,

Ordered for defence of the Narrows, Washington prepares to build, -

1T74

1.36

476

Secretary to the Pennsylvania Committee of Safety,

GoM'cr, jEar/, approves of coercive measures,

-

-

His reply to the Duke of Richmond, Votes against the Bill of Indemnity, Replies to the Duke of Grafton, Opposes the examination of Mr. Penn, Objects to Duke of Grafton's call for inform-

ation,

Called " the Earl in the Blue Ribbon," Speech of, in support of Lord Hillsborough,

Grafton, Duke of, condemns the King's Speech, Replies to Earl Sandwich, Attack upon the conduct of, His Speech on the Bill of Rights, His Speech in reply to Earl of Rochford, His Speech on motion to examine Mr. Penn, Moves for an account of Forces, The Privy Seal is taken from, (Note,) His Speech on the state of afiairs, His Alotions are negatived,

Tea Duty, German Treaties,

-

10

48 90

1

19,1

1.58

-

-

158 169 170 1S7 305 307 312

-

320

. -

his vote on the Charter Bill, Defence of, against Viscount W^eymouth, Speech of, on his motion for an Address, Speech of, in reply to Lord Jlansfield,

93 21

-

-

Explains

336 6

-

Speech

against the

159 160

-

Strives for a repeal of the of,

1214 12 97 107 120 123

-

341 Graham, William, (Virginia,) ordered to be disarmed, 881 Graham, Charles, is appointed Lieutenant, and re- io70 signs, (New-York,) Graham, Richard, is appointed Lieutenant of NorthCarolina Militia, 1445 Grand Jury, Presentment of a South-Carolina, 514 Grant, the amount and application of a, controlled by the grantors, 68 Grant, James, punished by Court-Jlartial, 637 -

---------

Grant, James, appointed Messenger to North-Carolina Committee of Safety, Grant, Reuben, resignation of, Grant, Mrs. Abi., Congress grant a passport to, Gratuity, Congress grant a, to one of ^Morgan's men, Graves, Admiral, character of, defended, Remarks on the supersession of, Graves, Mr., seconds motion for Previous Question, Opposes Mr. Fox's motion for inquiry, Graves, John, is captured with McKay, And committed to prison in Hartford, Gray, Daniel, examined by New-^ ork Committee, Graydon, Andrew, appointed Ensign of Pennsylvania

705

Militia,

Great Britain, meeting of Fourteenth Parliament

Freedom of

the subjects

of,

vaunted,

-

-

-

of,

150

in the American quarrel. painted by the people of Boston,

161

for

Europe,

aggressor

Conduct

of,

I

20 -

Manufactures

The

1444 1444 1682 1690 102 293 135 269 574 601 1161

557 Convention, 1581

Natives of, petition the Virginia Natives of, leave granted to, to depart the Country, 1594 Great Bridge, importance of, as a Jlilitar)* Post, - 407 Greaton, Colonel, march of his Regiment from

-----------------

Chambly,

Inoculation of his men,

-

-

-

-

584 590

Green, John, appointed Captain of Connecticut Militia,

873

Green, William, testimony of, in the case of Hickey, 1085 Green. James, appointed Secretary of North-Carolina

Committee of

Safety,

-

.

-

.

1443

INDEX.

1775

- 1454 LeUer of Marque granted to, Greene, Brigadier-General, Order to form a Picket 426 Guard, 536, 1053 Letters from, to Washington, 566, 741 Letters to, from Captain Wilkinson, 616 Letter to, from Lieutenant John Holiday, -

Grcc?), Jo/m,

998 Letter to, from Commodore Uojjkins, Is ordered to arrest the Mayor of New-York, 1158 - 1163 Is ordered to arrest Alderman Bievverton, - 1265 . . Extract of a Letter from, J. Livingston to New-York Congress

----------

Sends

as a prisoner,

Asks permission ther, -

Which

for inoculation

-

refused

is

gress,

-

-

1375

1776

Gunpowder, Pennsylvania Seizure

-

-

mittee,

They

They Habeas

-----

cion, Is

Grenville,

-

-

-

-

In favour of Lord North's measures, Gresham, Richard, appointed Lieutenant Maryland

is

highly recommended,

Company behave

well in battle,

Grievances, Virginia Convention appoint a

-

-

-

-

-

Speech of, on motion to Lord Clare, -

Grijfin, Sir J. G., of,

59 131

283

for

Supply, -

-

Griffith, Charles G., elected Lieutenant-Colonel

Maryland Flying-Camp,

-

493 439 420 827

Commit-

tee of,

Reply

1707

039

of -

-

1514 103

1490

Griswold, Daniel, proclaimed an enemy, 401 Grisivold, George, Jan., appointed Lieutenant of the Connectiuut Militia, 971 - 1075 Griswold, Matthew, Letter from, to Washington, Grosvenor, Earl, approves the King's Speech, 10 Grosvenor, Samuel, appointed Ensign of Connecticut

872

Militia, Groton, pay of Company at Fort, Grovcr, Lieutenant, released from confinement, . Asks pardon of Washington,

And

is

restored to duty,

-

-

-

651

-

423 424 424

-

-

-

Grover, Phinchas, appointed Ensign of Connecticut Militia, Grymes, Benjamin, proclaimed an enemy, Guest, Isaac, elected Quartermaster of Maryland

872 984 1493

Militia,

Guillot, Francis, a Canadian, appointed Captain

by

923

Sullivan,

Guion, Dr. Isaac, appointed Commissary of North-

1458

Carolina Militia, Guisehcrtson, Guiseberi, of New-Jersey, resignation of,

-

-

Enemy, Anne Militia,

Guisebertson, n-T/Z/uw, joins the

-

-

Gunby, Ca/;/ain, of Princess Gunlocks, specimens of home-made, Gunpowder, the manufacture of, in Pennsylvania, •

noticed,

A

-

-

-

-

-

supply of, forwarded to Washington, Estimated quantity of, in North-Carolina, Order in Council prohibiting export of, Quantily of, in Canada, reported, Arrival of, from St. Rlaloes, -

1657 1661

806 630

-126 -

421 404 487 599 629

-

-

-

-

-

-

to,

-

-

-

652 756 1115 1223

-

1448

-

617 683

-

-----up and examined, Jail in New- York,

to

petition for a hearing,

-

-

-

-

-

570 616 766

.

-

1125

Coipus, the essential right of every British Subject,

26

Hacker, Lieutenant Hoysted, Orders to, 902 Commodore Hopkins recommends him to Marine Committee, 979 HacJcett, Colonel James, Address of, to North-Carolina Assembly, 845 HackinsacTi, N. J., Ordinance for taking possession of the Ferry at, 1660

-----

HaddreWs

Point, operations ?it, Haff, John, the Confessions of,

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

------

Hagey, Joseph, Premium given Machine,

recommended New-York,

Httight, Stephen,

to,

for

for

Letter from, laid before

Lord North hopes

Lieutenancy

Prisoners

at,

1070 546 loss of, 40 House of Commons, 61

for the safety of,

-

856

in

-

-

-

-

Called the " Gin-shop of America," An account of Proceedings at, Mr. Lovell's account of the treatment of

Enemy

1188 1032

Spinning

Haines, Godfrey, prisoner, escape of, Halifax, N. S., argument on supposition of

1476

Militia, Grey, James, Order for the services of, Gridley, Col. Richard, Letter from, to Washington,

His

706 1722 1186 580 585 1000

-51

-

comphmented by Mr. Dempster, Mr. George, one of the Board of Trade,

Grier, Captain,

183 691

manufacturing,

are taken

Committed 1407

445 702

-

Safety relating

-715

Acts as Clerk of the same, Greemvich Hosjrital, rndLTiner o( sapporUng, Greenwich, IS'. J., Proceedings of Committee of, Greenwich, Mass., Vote of, on Independence, Gregg, James, appointed Lieutenant by Congress, Gre^off/, George, escape and recapture of, Greo-y, Co«;-at/, voluntary supply of Fiour from, Grenadier Company, formation of a, Grc?iarfjer«, capture of a Company of Scotch, Grennell, Thomas, appointed to command the Frigate Blontgomery, Grenville, Mr. James, opposes all measures of coer-

for

See " Powder." Gwinn's Island, Dunmore's Forces arrive at, They land and intrench upon, Gyer, or Guyer, Nathan and Lazarus, Depositions against,

564

manufac-

by the Connecticut Committee

fixed

of,

of Safety,

by the New-York Con-

Green Mountain Boys, Warner's, Grecnuj), Christopher, Chairman of Loudoun Com-

for

Resolve of the North-Carolina Committee of

1403

Greenleaf, Joseph, Letter from, to the Massachusetts Council,

money

by the Cumberland Committee,

of,

E. Tyson's proposals Price

of his bro-

-

loans'

ture of,

-

-

-

-

187

223 513 1076

with one hundred and fifty sail, and twelve hundred sick, - 1138 of, as one of the Board of Halifax, Lord, advice Trade, 1 131 Halifax, N. C, statement of affairs at, 404, 501 - 1447 List of Brigade Officers in, Halifax, Va., Proceedings of Committee of, 984 Hall, J., and others. Letter from, to Maryland Council of Safety, 630 Hall, Rev. Willard, declared unfriendly, 712 HaU, David, President of Lewistown (Del.) Comlying

mittee,

at,

------

808

Hall, Stephen, appointed Captain of Connecticut Mi-

872

litia,

Hall, J.

C, Orders

to,

Safety,

-

from Maryland Council of -

-

.

-

Elected Colonel of Maryland Flying-Camp, Hall, Captain R. B., (Maryland,) Court-SIartial ordered upon, Hall, Edward, appointed Major New-Jersey Militia, Hallet, Jonah, appointed Ensign New- York ftlilitia, Ilallock, Lieutenant fViUiam, his vessel reported unseaworthy, Hamblcton, Henry, discharged from prison, Virginia, Hambright, John, Chairman of the Northumberland . . . Committee, Hamilton, Captain, complimented by Earl Sandwich, Hamilton, Colonel, General Carleton compliments, Hamilton, William, Chairman of Philadelphia Com-

------

mittee,

---------

1063 1490

1484 1626 1416

756 1541

552 327 457

499,848

Inflammatory petition of, to Assembly, 786 Hamilton, Captain Alexander, Letter from, to NewYork Congress, 577 Return of his New- York Artillery, - 1122 Artillery of, put on Continental pay, - 1336 - 1349 Authorized to search vessels for deserters, Hamilton, Archibald, action of New'- York Commit-

1170

tee on,

Hamlin, Nathaniel, appointed Lieutenant of Connecticut Militia,

....

873

Hammill, John, appointed Surgeon's Mate NewJersey,

-

1652

INDEX.

1777 Hammond,

Captain, of sliip-of-war Roebuck, G17, corresponds with Governour Eden, His Letter shown to the Maryland Council of -

He

Safety

408 739 682

-_

809 His operations in the Delaware, - 1 078 Hampton, extract of a Letter dated at, Vessels sunk in River, paid for by Virginia, 1533,

Hanau,

the Treaty

of,

Ulterior Convention concluded at, Hancock, John, Gage's Proclamation against, Mr. Burke's question concerning, His Correspondence with Albany Committee, -

-

1569 276 358 242 382

1778

INDEX.

1779

- 1140 //rtrm, jRoicr/, Captain of Maryland ]Mi]itia, Harrison, Benjamin, 3Ir. Penn intciTogatcd concern-

-------

ing,

620 410 445 745 492 507 1134



Is appointed Secretary by Washington, Letter from, to Colonel Livingston,

-

General Heard,- 1421 Letter from, to the New- York Congress, Congress give the rank of Lieutenant-ColoIjetter from, to

-

1694

Harrison, Lieutenant William, Letter to, from ]Mary. land Council of Safety, Harrison, Richard, Letter from, to ^Maryland Coun-

754

nel to,

-

-

-

-

-

-----

cil of Safety, 905 Harrison, A. C, appointed Assistant Secretary by . . . 1146 Washington,

Jiarn'so«, T7iom«s, (of N. C.,) Order for arrest of,

------

Hawlcy, Joseph, Chairman of the Northampton Committee,

127

One of the Secret Committee of Congress, Harrison, R. H., one of Washington's Aids, Letter from, to Colonel Tupper, 478, 507, Letter from, to General Ward,

1780

Complaint

against,

by a Prisoner,

"

Instructions to, by New-York Congress, Hay, Sir George, supports Lord North's Bill,

Governour Johnson

replies to,

787

iJac^a?-(7,-Eic?}ercr, Letter from, to the

952 501 635

Hazelwood, Captain John, appointed

Hart, Dr. John, inoculation of, by Dr. Betts, Dr. Betts punished for inoculating, Hart, Sclah, appointed Lieutenant-Colonel of Con-

necticut Militia,

-

-

-

-

-

Jersey Militia,

necticut Militia,

Hart, jnUiam, appointed

-

...

ftlajor

of Horse of

Hazen,

The command given

to,

-

IMoves to postpone its consideration, Supports lilr. Fox's Rlotion, read die Moves to Petition of Congress, His Conciliatory Propositions negatived, His Speech on the German Treaties, His Speech in support of Mr. Luttrell's

-

-

. -

-

-

His Speech on Resolutions for Supplies, His Speech on the Expenses of the War,

Moves

for Estimates,

-

.

LTrges the necessity of his Motion,

-

-

.

.

-

-

Supports Colonel Barre's Motion, Supports i\Ir. Sawbridge's Motion, ]\Ioves an Address to the King, Hartwick, John, suspicions entertained of, Harvic, John, allowance made to by Virginia Convention,

235 236 233 248 255 279

Mo-

tion,

......

Harwintown, Conn., Proceedings of Committee, Hasbrouck, Jacob, First Captain in Pawling's Regi-

313 315 342 344 353 359 376 387 476

May,

.

-

-

-

-

-

Hawkins, Hannah, Deposition of Mrs., flniii/ty, .SVwM«c/,

Order

a Tory, declarations

for arrest of,

of,

-

-

-

-

-

to

-

Colonel, Arnold complains

1577

902

-

-

-

Letter from, to General Sullivan,

-

-

1363 573 471 550

872

of,

1369

655 1288 797 1105

Gover-

968 1134 Orders to, from the New-Jersey Convention, 1622 - 1623 Letter from, to President Tucker, Is promoted to Brigadier-General, - 1629 Measures to complete his Brigade, - 1652 . - 1659 Brigade Return from, Heard,

IVilliam, appointed

-

.

-

-

-

-

Cornet of the New-York

1359

Militia,

Heart of Oak, (N. C.) Letter of Marque sloop, - 1453 - 1430 Hearts of Oak, a New-York JMilitia Company, Heath, Brigadier-General, Memorial of Surgeon's Mates to, 1084 Hemp, Essay on the culture of, presented to the Vir-

------

ginia Convention,

-

.

.

.

1542

Hempstead, John, apjiointed Lieutenant of the Connecticut Militia,

-

.

Congress,

-

-

-

-

.

Henderson, Thomas, examined by the

.

1225

New-York

-

-

-

1303

- 1314 Has leave to return home, Henderson, Daniel, appointed Lieutenant of the Ma-

.._.--

rines,

1720

- 1078 Hendricks, Colonel, Extract of a Letter from, Hendricks, Conrad, examined and discharged by the - 1650 New-Jersey Convention, Hendrickson, John, secretly examined by the New. - 1320 York Committee, Hendrickson, Daniel, appointed Colonel of the New-

Jersey

1641

IMililia,

... is

referred

- 1651 to General Mercer, Henley, Charles, punished for giving intelligence to

the enemy,

949 710

1664 553

survey the

Appears before the Convention and

ment, 529 Hasbrouck, Joseph, Treasurer of Ulster Committee, 1274 //fw/jroMc/iT, jE//«s, appointed Captain of Rangers, - 1274 Haskins, Aaron, appointed Captain of the NorthCarolina Militia, . 1444 Hasleit, Colonel, ordered to send Troops to Cape

Hatch, Mrs., suspected of aiding the enemy, Suspicions against, found to be unjust,

New-

Connecticut Ga-

.

1276

Congress, 1622 Hartford, Conn., Letter from Committee to the Presi. dent of Congress, 601 Meeting of the Inhabitants of, 944 48 Hartley, Mr., makes an appeal to Lord North, His Speech on the Militia Bill, 77 -

191

-----.---..

Letter from, to R. H. Harrison,

Hart, John, elected Vice-President of the New-Jersey

Bill,

...

nour Franklin,

874

880

Opposes Lord North's

-

to arrest

of Third Regiment of Horse

------

204

-

-----

Heard, Colonel Nathaniel, ordered

Con-

necticut Militia,

188,

199,

Delaware, Appointed Captain and Superintendent of

Hart, Hawkins, appointed Lieutenant of Connecti-

1386

-

Fire Vessels,

873

cut Militia,

-

1031

*-

Hazard, Captain John, cashiered by Court-Martial, Hazard, Samuel, appointed Lieutenant of the Con-

Hart, John, appointed a Lieutenant of Connecticut Militia,

-

Hayivood, Eaton, appointed Lieutenant of the

zette,

871

1015

-

Hay, great efforts to procure a supply of, 441 Hay, Captain, gallantry of, 827 Hay, Colonel A. //., ordered to make certain arrests, 1442 Hayes, Samuel, Secretary to the Newark Compiittee, 523 Hayes, Abraham, Lieutenant of Pennsylvania Rifles, 1298 Haylcy, Mr., supports Alderman Oliver's Motion, - 246 Hayman, John, elected Lieutenant of the Maryland Militia, 583 Haynes, Captain Joseph, allowance to, by the Virginia Convention, . - 1589

Letter from, to the Philadelphia Committee,

Chosen Vice-President of the Conference at Philadelphia,

.

486 486 844

New-York Con-

to

1455

-

-

gress,

----------

Harrison, Cuthbert, elected Lieutenant of Virginia Horse, 1566 Harrison, Copinin CAarZcs, (of N.J.,) resignation of, 1640 Harrison, Richard, appointed Lieutenant of Marines, 1721 Hart, Joseph, Chairman of Bucks County (Penn.) Committee, 543

-

...

Letter from, to Elbridge Gerry, Letter from, to .Washington,

Hnwley, Ezckicl, Letter from,

-

-

.

.

-

-

.

King, invoked, Conditions on which the First was crowned, The Third, complied with the will of a Con-

iienr^/, the spirit of

gress, Henry, David, Commissary for St. Johns, Henry, Patrick, elected Governour of Virginia, 1129, His answer to notice of election, Henry, John, appointed Cornet of Virginia Horse, witnesses Samusl, examined against NewHenry, by

Jersey Congress,

Congress order him mitted,

----to

1577 41 140

140 609 1599 1602 1568

1646

be arrested and com-

1647

INDEX.

1781 Henry, Samuel, New-Jersey Convention order a tary force to apprehend,

He

petitions,

and

is

-

mili-

-

-

1648

discharged on giving bbnd, 1651

JVHliain, congratulates General Gates on

Henshaw,

promotion,

-

757

-

-

Henshaw, JosepA, Chairman of the Worcester (Mass.) Committee,

-

.

.

.

-

Herbert, Mr., opinion of, on Militia Bill, Hermony, Nicholas, publick pardon asked by, Herrey, Captain, appointed to survey the river Dela-

--....

1088 85 422

ware, Hess, Matthias, imposition proved upon, Hesse, Landgrave of, improbability of men from, A Treaty with, Hesse Cassel, Treaty with the Prince of. . . Ulterior Convention with, Hessians, Mr. Wilkes on employment of, Journal of the House of Commons on em-

655 562

ployment of, read, Moses, elected Major of the New- York

107

,

Hetjield,

Militia,

Hey, Mr., defends General Carleton, . Hiccox, Amos, appointed Lieutenant of the Connec-

.

ticut Militia,

-

-

-

-

.

133 273 276 358 23

ticut Militia,

.

.

.

.

1392 266

874

Hicks,

TV.,

in

Council, .

of,

-

----for

Letter to John

Troops

to attend

McKesson,

-

-

execu-

-

-

Proceedings of New- York Committee against, Hicks, Jeffrey, chosen Lieutenant of Flushing Militia, Confirmed -by the New-Yoi-k Congress, -

------

Hicks, Thomas, Letter from, gress,

to the

Hicks, Dr. John, Petition of, to Admitted to parole,

Takes the oath and home,

is

New- York Con-

permitted to return -

-

.

1644

-

-

-

-

.

874

-

-

-

-

.

.

gress,

.

-

.

-

------

HiH, Dr. John, Letter from,

to the

874 431

-

-

-

-

-

80()

-

979 504 243

Marine Committee,

1140

Hite, Abraham, additional allowance to, by the Vir- 1587 ginia Convention, Hobart, Aaron, Letter from, to Richard Devens, 472

Hobbs's Hole, a nest of Tories,

-

-

Hobby, Thomas, appointed Ensign of

-

-

390

the Connecti-

872

cut Militia,

Empowered by Congress

to

-

Hillhouse, William, appointed Major of Horse, HilUckcr, Stephen, appointed Lieutenant of the New-

Duke

of Grafton,

-----------to,

from Secret

Com-

mittee,

Hogans, Cornelius, proceedings tee,

against, in

804

Sent prisoner to the Maryland Council of Safe-

----------

jNIilitia,

805

873

...

...

cut Militia, Holmer, Sergeant, promoted by Lee, Holme, Benjamin, appointed Paymaster of New-Jer-

873 406 1623

sey Militia,

Holmes, Uriel, appointed Lieutenant of Connecticut

87

Militia,

Holmes, Jonathan, appointed a Lieutenant of

New1433

Militia,

tee,

Militia,

of, to

Baltimore Commit-

------

1325 833 854

Holstead, Latimer, Clerk of Norfolk Committee,

1723

Holton, William, Petition

-

Holt, Lord Chief' Justice, compliment to, Holt, Timothy, appointed Ensign of Connecticut ililitia,

880

618

Commit-

Holmes, Jonathan, appointed Ensign of New-Jersey

1353 330 376 Comments on his Circular, 377 Call for the reading of his Letter, His Circular read in the House of Commons, 378 1073 iiiftoH, i?ejyo»»"n, charged with Toryism, Militia,

Hillsborough, Earl, replies to the

Works, Virginia, 1607

874

pay Signers of

Bills of Credit,

Salt

Holmes, William, proposal

New- York Con-

Hillegas, Michael, Letter to, from George Evans, Appointed Treasurer of Pennsylvania,

York

-

710

Hill, Jared, appointed Lieutenant of the Connecti-

cut Militia,

to

to,

Hinsdale, George, informs against McDonald, History, fearful eras of English, reviewed, Hitchcock, Azael, Jan., Lieutenant of the Mar}'land

York

Hill, Mrs., suspected of corresponding with the en-

Prize captured by,

necticut

- 1269 Higgins, James, sentenced by Court-Mariial, Highlands, order for the inspection of Works in, - 534 672 Lord Stirling's Report on, New-York Commissioners in, discharged, - 1401 447 Highlanders, Order concerning the. 511 Colonel Dayton's account of the, 647 Schuyler orders removal of, to Albany Scotch Company of, captured, 771,918 Account of the capture of, 946, 981 983 Second capture of, at Jamestown, 550 HiJl, Captain Daniel, order for arrest of. Hill, Captain Duncan, Orders to, from the Maryland . Council of Safety, 630

emy,

-

ticut Militia,

ty,

Higgins, Cornelius, appointed Captain of the Con necticut Militia,

1467

Holiday, Lieutenant John, Letter from, to General 616 Greene. Holland, apparent paradox in the Government of, 29 1,5-2 Goods smuggled from, 750 Government of, examined, Holland, Lord, conduct of, attacked, 48 Hollingsu'orth, Levi, Report from, at New-London, 538 Hollingstcorth, Jesse, Letter to, from the iMaryland Council of Safety, -883,1080,1131 - 1445 Hollingsworth, Charles, resignation of, Reappointed Lieutenant of North-Carolina Independent Company, 1449 Hollisier, Thomas, appointed Lieutenant of Connecti-

Sentence of death confirmed

tion of,

-----

contract with,

Hine, Ambrose, appointed Lieutenant of the Connec-

1352 New-Jersey Congress, 164 . - 1642

-

General Order

Jl'illiam, Letter to, from the Maryland . . Council of Safety, 687 Hindman, James, Letter from, to ^Maryland Council of Safety, 1091 Letter to, from Maryland Council of Safety, 1130 Hindman, Dr. John, Maryland Council of Safety

Committed by Maryland Council of Safety, - 1470 - 1471 Gives security and is discharged, Hogg, Lieutenant, made prisoner by the Indians, - 1253 Holcomh, Ensign, left behind in retreat from Quebeck, 430 Holcomb, Obcd, appointed Lieutenant of the Con-

-

execution

Hindman,

1148 528 1 159 1031 1381

for trial,

by General Court-Martial, Defence and sentence of, for

103

Hobday, John, ftlanager of the Hodge, Capt. W., Instructions

of,

Warrant

874 8

1406 1410 1084 1086 1109 1119

Congress, Transferred to Washington Trial

871

873

ticut Militia,

Militia,

872

Hick, William, leave to return home on bond, 1644 Hickey, Thomas, committed to jail by the New-York

------

Dr. J., Bishop of Pcterborougli, Hinchinbroke, Lord, excuse of, for liis father, Hinckley, Ichahod, appointed Ensign of the Connec-

Hinchcliffe,

Recommended

Hiccox, James, appointed Ensign of the Connecticut Militia,

Hilyard, Joseph, appointed Ensign of the Conflcclicut Militia, Hilyer, Andrciv, appointed Ensign of the Connecticut Militia,

Hinman, Lieutenant Elisha, Orders

Hiccox, Benjamin, appointed Ensign of the Connec.

1782

.----of,

referred to the

1460 1642 984 35 873

Board of

War, 1723 573 Homan, Robert, Deposition of, Honan, Mr., Deputy Commissary, complaints against, 674 105 Honcywood, Sir Filmer, sentiments of, 67 Hook, arrival of men-of-war at the, . 709 Further arrivals at the, 715 Information confirmed from the. - 1134. 1143 Enemy's Fleet at the,

INDEX.

1783 Hooper's Straits, Enemy's oporations at, Hoops, Robert, appointed Brigade-Major of

1209

------

Jereey,

New-

1657 576

Hope, arrival in England of Transport, Hope, capture of Ordnance Store-ship, Hope, Thomas, proclaimed disaffected in Virginia, Hopen, Ambrose, appointed a Lieutenant of Connec-

729 984 873

ticut Militia,

1784 40 293 Retreat of, from Boston, explained, 362 Motion for copies of Despatches to, 364 Comments on the Commission granted to, 367 Letter from, to Lord Germaine, 43 1 698, 707, 728, 766 Proclamation of, at Halifax, 513

Howe, General, Colonel Barre compliments, Remarks on the appointment of,

-

-

-

-

-

-----

Hoplcins, Jared, Letter to, from the Maryland Council of Safety, Hopliins, Stephen, Letter from, to Governour Cooke,

His satisfaction at the appointment of

Letter

to,

Commodore Hopkins, Mark, relates a Tory Plot,

from

Hoplcins, Colonel Letter from, to Washington,

-

-

.

Hoplcins, Commodore, Letter from the President of Congress to, Orders of, to Paul Jones,

-

-

409,551,972

-

-

418, 820, 844 430, 551 430, 539, 931

Letter from, to AVashington,

-

Letter from, to Captain Biddle, Letter from, to Lieutenant Hinraan,

-

-

Militia,

-

-

-

York

-------

1318 1357 1541 1699 828 903

1190

Horse, three Regiments of, ordered from Connecti. - 1223 cut to New- York, Virginia raises four Troops of,

Ordinance

-

----..

for raising six

Virginia,

Troops more

1531

of, in

1556 Lee is permitted to subsist Volunteers of, - 1673 appointed Dr. J., Surgeon Horton, of New-Jersey ' Militia, 1634 HortwicTc, John, examined and restored to favour in . New- Jersey,

Hospital, estimate

of, for

the Canadas,

-

-

-

------------

prepare,

nia,

Hostages, British Peers given up la-Chapelle,

-

as, at .

1654

418 608

.

-

-

-

1533 1572 1573

in Virgi-

1673

Peace of Aix-

-

-

-

sey Militia, J.

B., Lieutenant of Maryland Militia,

-

-

.

-

-

-

-

Satisfaction expressed

by

-

His Circular and declaration,

-

Howe, General Robert, Enemy land on

-

501

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

730 1000

.

-

1001

his brother at,

Letter from, to Dr. Franklin,

the Planta-

432 612 663

-

tion of,

Extract of a Letter

to,

-

-

-

-

Howell, Jacob S., employed to inspect Powder-Mills, Howell, Edmund, appointed Lieutenant of New-York

1440

Mihtia,

Howell, Ebenezer,?ippomted a Major of New-Jersey Militia,

-

-

-

-

-

-

1629

New-Jersey

Hoioell, Elliot, appointed Lieutenant of

-

Militia,

1632

Hubbard, George, appointed Ensign of Connecticut

873

Militia,

Hubbard, Oliver, appointed Ensign of Connecticut

873

Militia,

Hubbell, Ephraim, Proceedings of the New-Fairfield (Connecticut) Committee in relation to, Hubbell, Shadrach, appointed Lieutenant of Connec-

---------------

798

872

ticut Militia,

Hubbell,

W. G., appointed Captain of Connecticut

Hudson River, Report on

the Obstructions

872 1359

Nevz-York Con-

1401 1186 Fort Sullivan, 1192

gress on,

Huger,

to the

-

of,

Colonel, sent with a Flag to enemy's Fleet,

His Regiment offer to work at Hughes, Hugh, appointed Assistant Quartermaster-

428

General,

Hughes, Mem., appointed Commissary New-Jersey, 1640 Hughes, Daniel and Samuel, Letter to, from Mary. land Council of Safety, petitions the Virginia Convention,

----------

Hughes, Thomas,

Petition rejected,

Hull, Miles, appointed Ensign of Connecticut Militia, Hurlbert, John, Lieutenant-Colonel of Minute Regi-

ment,

1256 1586 1604 874

628 148

Hurlbert, James, sentenced for desertion,

-

-

1

Hulet, Townsend, Order for arrest Hulse, Henry, Deposition of,

-

-

-

-

-

-

1360 570

of,

his attack

on the Roe-

buck,

Commands

the armed-boat Ranger,

Humiliation and Fasting,

Day

of,

-

-

appointed,

-

498 668 478

Humphreys, Cornelius, elected Colonel of New-Jersey Militia,

Hunbergcr, Thomas, Loan

to, for

making Powder,

Hungary, prohibitory Edict of tiie Queen of, Hunn, John, Privateer commission given to, Hunt, William, Certificate of, Hunt, John, appointed Captain of New-Jersey

-

tia, «S'^c/j/tc?(,

Resignation

of, -

-

-

------

872

So appointed by the New- York Congress, Hunter, David, Sen. and Jan., Depositions of,

diers,

1392 652 443 1296

419

Mili-

Hunter, Elijah, recommended as a Captain of Grena-

1664 1140

981 1111 1124

1262 189 270 293 367 385

138

Houseman, Jacob, appointed Lieutenant of New-JerHoivard,

-

7Ji(H