President of Congress to General Washington

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Philadelphia, December 1st, 1776.

SIR: Your favour of the 30th November was duly received; in consequence of which, as the contents were of the utmost importance, I thought proper to call the Congress together; whose resolutions of this day I now do myself the honour to enclose.

Considering the very critical situation of our affairs, the Congress have agreed that you may order into the Jerseys the troops who are at present on the east side of Hudson' s river, if it should be your opinion the publick service will receive any benefit from such a movement.

You will please to direct that the clothing, as fast as it arrives at Head-Quarters, or at any of the camps, should be given to those soldiers who stand most in need of them.

The Secret Committee will order one or two persons to set out immediately to the Eastern States, to see that the clothing and stores which have been purchased in that quarter be sent to the Army with all possible despatch.

I have the honour to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and respect, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant,

JOHN Hancock, President

His Excellency General Washington.