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A Letter from the Delegates of this Colony at the Continental Congress was read and filed, and is in the words following, to wit:
Philadelphia, January 27, 1776.
GENTLEMEN: The Congress this day received a letter from General Lee, apprising us of his intended march into New-York, in obedience to orders from General Washington, favouring us, at the same time, with a copy of your letter to him on this subject.
As we perceived it was General Lee' s intention immediately to proceed to your city, and that you thought such a treasure dangerous to the lives of the inhabitants, and in other respects unseasonable, we thought it our duty to apply for a Committee of Congress to examine into the expediency of the expedition, and to give such directions as, upon consulting you and the General, might appear most prudent and advisable.
Colonel Harrison, Mr˙ Lynch, and Mr˙ Allen, are intrusted with this important business, a choice which we approve, having the highest sentiments of their humanity, patriotism, and judgment. We are well satisfied that every
We acknowledge the receipt of your favour, this day, respecting the scheme of protecting the navigation by cruisers, at the Continental expense. When you are made acquainted that this and other Colonies have engaged in a similar plan, at their own Provincial charge, you will perceive the proposition to be attended with difficulty as proceeding from us. The deputation from Congress will, however, give you an opportunity of representing the propriety of such a measure, as calculated to prevent the supply of provisions to the fleet and army employed for the enslaving these Colonies, and the necessity of stationing some of the Continental cruisers in the places you may suggest. This will bring on the inquiry where such vessels can most conveniently be had, and your purposes may be answered very effectually, as we are confident that every thing which they recommend will have the greatest weight with the Congress.
The several matters communicated in your letter by Mr˙ Foster will be answered by that gentleman, when he returns, which will not be till the beginning of next week.
We have the honour to be, with great respect, gentlemen, your most obedient, humble servants,
JAMES DUANE,
"To the Honourable Committee of Safety, New-York."
Letter from the Delegates in Congress
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mark of respect will be shown to them by your body, as well as by individuals, not only on account of their great merit, but because the employment in which they are now engaged immediately regards the safety and preservation of the Capital of our own Colony.
WILLIAM FLOYD,
HENRY WISNER.