Letter from the President of Congress to the Virginia Council of Safety

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Philadelphia, July 16, 1776.

GENTLEMEN: Although the Council of Safety of this Colony, by a recommendation to the inhabitants to spare the lead weights from their windows, and the lead from their houses, have collected a considerable quantity, which has been run into ball, and a part of which is now on the way to the Jerseys; yet it is by no means sufficient in our present exigency. A much greater quantity is still wanted for the Army in New Jersey, and every method should be taken to procure it; I have it therefore in charge from Congress to request you will send by the return wagons, which are now on their way to your Colony with powder, as much lead as you can spare, and that you will order fifteen or twenty tons more of lead from the mines to this city as soon as possible. The state of our affairs will not admit the least delay; and I am persuaded arguments are not necessary to induce you to a compliance with this requisition with the greatest despatch.

I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient and very humble servant,
JONN HANCOCK, President.

Honourable Council of Safety, Virginia.