Letter from Colonel Joseph Reed to the New York Convention, on removing the prisoners from the City of New-York

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Head Quarters, New York, July 5, 1776.

GENTLEMEN: I am directed by the General to solicit the attention of your honourable body to the resolve of the Congress touching prisoners of war. By that resolve they are put wholly on the disposition of the Legislatures of the respective Colonies, who are authorized to appoint a Commissary to make provision for them, and they are to be taken to such place as shall be deemed the most secure.

There are now a number of prisoners in the jail, some of them of some rank. Their expenses run much higher than if in the country, and in our present situation extremely dangerous. His Excellency requests no time may be lost in removing not only those who have been taken prisoners of war, but those committed for practices against the State; and if some direction was taken with respect to the prisoners for debt, it would be proper, as there is too much reason to fear that in case of an attack, if the doors were not opened by the jailor, the whole would rise and force them open. Any assistance that may be wanted for this purpose, the General begs leave to tender. I have also in charge to mention to you the impropriety of suffering Burrows to continue in the care of the jail, as, from his connexions, his appointment, and other circumstances, there is the utmost reason to suspect him.

The distance to which the Congress has removed will make it very difficult to have their advice and assistance on occasions which frequently present. The General would suggest the propriety of their appointing a small Committee in the city, to regulate such matters of intimate concern as daily present themselves.

The great hurry and engagement of the General prevents his writing personally, but he begs his respectful compliments may be made to your honourable body.

I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your most obedient humble servant,
JOSEPH REED, Adjutant General.

To the Convention of New York.

Letter from Colonel Joseph Reed to the New York Convention, on removing the prisoners from the City of New-York. [1776-07-05] [S5-V1-p0019] [Document Details][Complete Volume]