Letter from Philip Thomas to Matthew Tilghman: The authority of the Convention is necessary for preventing desertion

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Fredericktown, September 12, 1776.

SIR: I am directed by the Committee to inform the Convention that there are many deserters from our regiment now in this and the Upper District, and that they have sufficient reasons to believe they are secreted by their friends. Under these circumstances, the Committee wish the Convention to take some order therein, as they conceive the interposition of their authority may be necessary for the speedy apprehending them and discouraging desertion in future.

I am likewise to mention, that there have been and still are several sick soldiers lodged in this town, belonging to the Continental army, and as no provision hath been made for them, I am to request your directions.

I am, sir, with great respect, your very obedient servant,

PHILIP THOMAS,

of Committee Correspondence.

To the Hon˙ Matthew Tllghman, Esq˙, President of Convention.