Letter from Governour Trumbull to the President of Congress

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New-Haven, December 33, 1775.

SIR: I received this evening General Washington' s favour of the 14th instant, by the hands of Monsieurs Penet and De Pliarne, two French gentlemen, who laid before him a plan for furnishing the Continent with military stores, which seems to promise success; but not thinking himself authorized to make a contract with them, hath prevailed upon them to go to Philadelphia, to lay their proposals before the Continental Congress, for their consideration and final determination.

The General requests me to supply them with such necessaries as they may want, and to have carriages provided for expediting their journey as much as possible; which is complied with, proper carriages and assistance is afforded them without delay, and hope their plan and services may be such as will meet with the approbation of your body, according to what, on consideration, the same may appear to merit.

I have received your favours of the 2d and 8th of December, instant. Apprehend men for the Continental service, to fill the regiments from this Colony, will be soon inlisted. The zeal and ardor of this people to promote the common cause is not abated. Our Assembly remains sitting.

There are no officers from St˙ John' s arrived here, except Captain Hunter, of the sloop, Lieutenant Smith, of the Artillery, Dr˙ Sandon, with some of their dependants and servants, about a fortnight ago; and yesterday, Captain McKay, who is very desirous to be sent to the place where the rest are destined. If that be elsewhere, is it not best to send him to be with them, rather than to remain

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Monsieur Jean Orillat, the merchant, is escaped from us, with design, as is supposed, to get on board the Asia. The pursuers have not found him. He is likely, at present, to lie concealed not far from this place.

I am, with great truth and regard, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,
JONATHAN TRUMBULL.

The Honourable President Hancock.