Letter from General Schuyler

v2:1337

A Letter from General Schuyler was read, and is in the words following, to wit:

"New-York, July 3, 1775.

"GENTLEMEN: I do myself the honour to enclose you an estimate of such stores, &c˙, as at present appears to me necessary to be forwarded to Albany. The pitch, oakum, and nails, I wish to have sent with all possible despatch. I am very certain that a variety of other articles will be wanted, which I shall be better able to ascertain after my arrival at Albany, for which, place I propose setting out tomorrow. I am informed that a considerable quantity of lead was found at Ticonderoga; but if it should not equal my expectations, I may be exposed to insurmountable difficulties. I therefore, wish that at least half of the quantity which I have estimated may be ordered up without delay, together with fifty casks of powder, which I am advised will be sent you from Philadelphia.

"As it is probable, from the manoeuvres of Governour Carleton, that I shall speedily want a re-enforcement of Troops at Ticonderoga; and not being at liberty to remove the Connecticut Troops from hence, I entreat that you will be pleased to forward whatever men may be levied in this Colony immediately to Albany, without waiting until the corps are completed.

"I hope, gentlemen, on every occasion, to be favoured with your advice; and, indeed, as the important charge conferred on me by the Continental Congress, was done in deference to your polite and honourable (yet altogether unmerited) recommendation of me, I shall, with the fullest confidence, look up to you for your aid and countenance, at once to promote the publick service, and to prevent me from sinking under the weighty concerns of my office; and give me leave to assure you, that though I have the clearest conviction that I shall never be able to equal the high opinion you have induced the Congress to entertain of me, yet no effort shall be wanting on my part to deserve it as far as possible, that I may not draw disgrace on you, my country, or myself.

"I am, gentlemen, with sentiments of the most profound respect, your most obedient and most humble servant.

"PH˙ SCHUYLER.

"The Gentlemen of the New-York Provincial Congress."

The Estimate of Stores, &c˙, mentioned in the foregoing Letter of General Schuyler, was read, and filed.