Letter from General Lee

v5:272

A Letter from General Lee, bearing date this day, on the subject of shutting up the Port, was read and filed, and is in the words following, to wit:

"New-York, February 16, 1776.

"SIR: I have received intelligence that Mr˙ Tryon has been guilty of most grossly abusing the indulgence shown to him; that he has inveigled some of the gunsmiths on board his ship; and that he is endeavouring to seduce as many as he can, with the view, undoubtedly, of distressing; us in the article of arms. I could wish (as it has been thought proper to furnish this gentleman with provisions and other necessaries of life) that he should be obliged to give some security that he will not intrigue, cabal, or machinate mischief of any kind to the Continent or Province. This business of the gunsmiths is the reason that I have, pro tempore, interdicted all communication with the Governour' s ship — measure which I hope will be approved by the Congress.

"I am, sir, your most obedient servant,

"CHARLES LEE.

"To the Honourable the Congress of New-York."