Letter from the President of Congress to General Washington

v4:585

Philadelphia, January 6, 1776.

SIR: I have the honour of enclosing you sundry resolutions, passed yesterday, respecting Mr˙ Lovell.

The Congress are desirous to know your opinion what rank it would be proper the Aid-de-camps of the General Officers ought to hold in the Army; and, on this head, I am directed to write to you, and desire your answer.

Just after the receipt of your letter, Connolly and Cameron were brought to town. By some mismanagement, Smith, one of their associates, was suffered to make his escape, from Fredericktown, where they were confined. Orders were given to have his saddle searched, but nothing is yet discovered. There is reason to believe he must have found means to withdraw his papers, as we find, by an account from the Committee of Frederick, that his saddle was mended there.

The French gentlemen are arrived, and referred to the Secret Committee.

The Congress have given orders to General Schuyler, immediately to secure Brigadier-General Prescott, and keep him in close and safe custody until further order.

I am, &c˙,
John Hancock, President.

To General Washington.