Timothy Pickering, Junior, to the Committee of Safety for Massachusetts

v2:461

Salem, May 1, 1775.

GENTLEMEN: As a great number of men will soon be out of employ within the limits of the First Regiment, in Essex, it is thought by many highly expedient that they should have an opportunity to enlist into the Army. I imagine a Regiment may presently be enlisted, if field officers be appointed; and I beg leave to recommend Lieutenant Colonel John Mansfield, of Lynn, as well qualified to take the command of the proposed Regiment, and Captain Israel Hutchinson, of Danvers, to be the second in command. The latter is an active man, of experience in war, having made three campaigns; and both he and Colonel Mansfield will, I am persuaded, be very acceptable to the people. I do not think just now of a Major; but as soon as it is known that a Regiment is to be formed in the environs of Salem, I doubt not but a sufficient number of suitable persons will present themselves to fill all the vacant offices in the Regiment. I am, gentlemen, your most humble servant,

TIM˙ PICKERING, Junior.

To the Committee of Safety.