Philadelphia Apl. 10th. 1781
Dear Sir,
There are in this City about 4000 Rampart pieces belonging to the public - they weigh from 16 to 20 lbs each - it is thought the lightest might be useful in the hands of the Militia, and the others on board of Vessels. If you think it proper we shou’d apply for any of them, on account of the State, we think it is probable a thousand or 1500 might be obtaind, with some old cartouch boxes belonging to them. There are likewise some Brass Field pieces mounted, three or four of which might possibly be obtained on yr. request.1
We are, Sir, with great respect, Yr. Mo. Obt Servts.
John Hanson
Daniel Carroll
Receiver’s copy, Maryland State Papers (Red Books), Maryland Hall of Records Commission, Annapolis. Written by Carroll and signed by Carroll and Hanson.
1 On April 14 the Maryland governor and council authorized the delegates to apply for 750 "of the best" rampart pieces and cartridge boxes as well as the four brass field pieces "for they are much wanted." See Md. Archives, 45:399. See also Carroll to Lee, April 24, 1781.
2 On April 6 the governor and council had informed the delegates that prices in Maryland had risen considerably "for want of small change" and asked when "the Plates for the small Denominations of our State Money, and the paper for printing them . . . may be expected." Md. Archives, 45:379. It is not known what "further orders" the delegates may have received in response to this letter.