Philadelphia 19 May 1780
Sir
I am directed to acquaint you that there being but one Delegate from Maryland attending at Congress that State is not represented.
That Matters of great Importance are now lying before Congress, which require the United Councils, and vigorous Exertions of all the States; and it earnestly requested that Maryland may be represented in Congress as soon as possible.1
With great respect & Esteem, I have the honor to be, your Excellency’s hbble servt,
Sam Huntington President
Receiver’s copy, Maryland State Papers (Red Books), Maryland Hall of Records Commission, Annapolis. In a clerical hand and signed by Huntington.
1 For Congress’ May 17 resolve directing Huntington to urge Maryland and Delaware to send a representation to Congress, see JCC, 17:435. Huntington also wrote an identical letter this day to Delaware president Caesar Rodney. Although several matters of importance were before Congress, this resolve was undoubtedly adopted at the request of New York, which had long been pressing for a congressional decision on the Vermont issue. See New York Delegates to George Clinton, May 21, 1780.
For Governor Lee’s May 26 letter to John Hanson and John Henry urging "an immediate Compliance" with Congress’ request, see Md. Archives, 43: 182 - 83. The two Maryland delegates took their seats in Congress on June 14 and 23 respectively.