Baltimore Jany. 18, 1777
Sir,
The inclosed resolve1 Of Congress cannot be executed without the books and papers of the Secret Committee. And if the wishes of many Members be gratified, it will be proper to make known what prospects we have of getting the things ordered, and for this purpose what are our prospects of remittance etc. This latter cannot be complied with at present, unless we had the pleasure of your company here. Will you be so kind then Sir, as to order the books here, and when it is convenient for the public, and your private, affairs, we have no doubt but that we shall have your assistance at this place.
We are with regard, Sir, Your most obedient and very humble Servants,
Richard Henry Lee
Fra. Lewis
Wm Whipple
MS not found; reprinted from Burnett, Letters, 2:224 (where it is identified as "in the writing of Richard Henry Lee").
1 On January 17 Congress ordered the Secret Committee to supply "a list of the articles which they have ordered in consequence of the directions of Congress, distinguishing how much is arrived and what is expected." JCC, 7:45.