Letter from John R. Livingston to New-York Congress

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"Clare-Mont, January 27, 1776.

"Sir: Some time since, I received a letter from Mr˙ Van Cortlandt, President of the Committee of Safety, during the recess of Congress, desiring that the powder-mill might again be built, as it was, in some measure, of publick utility. I have, accordingly, pushed the building of it, and am now happy to inform you that it is finished; but are, notwithstanding, still obliged to be idle, for want of saltpetre. As there is a large quantity of that article arrived at Philadelphia, should think myself under obligations, if you would procure a part of it, to be sent across the country to the mill, which may easily be effected, as great part of the way they will have snow.

"I remain, sir, your most obedient servant,

"JOHN R˙ LIVINGSTON.

"The President of the Honourable the Provincial Congress, sitting at New-York."