Philadelphia Jany 1 st. 1782
Dear sir,
Congress have Just received intelligence from New York, that Gen. Leslie had wrote to Sr Harry that unless he sent him A reinforcement, he should not be Able to Keep Charles Town, in Consequence an embarkation of about 1100 men had taken place.1 I have inclosed you the packet of this day. Am in hopes that the Account in the Annapolis paper of St Eustatius And St Martins being taken by the French will prove true. Soon after my Arrival here in the fall I received orders from Mr Mollihon for Some money payable at different periods promising him at the same time that if it Should appear that there was not So much due from him that I would not Call for the payment of those orders, which were payable the 1st this month And the 1st February. Mr. Mollihon was with me this morning and by his Account the State owes him near £500. My relying upon those orders induced us to engage to pay money which I am not able to Comply with. Mr. Carroll I believe is in the Same situation. I hope your Excellency and honors will as Speedily as possible relieve us from so disagreeable a Situation. Tobacco Such as has hitherto been Sent will not net £5 a hhd. Flour of a good quallity if it Could be Sent immediately might Answer. I wish you A happy new year, And Am with much esteem And regard,
Your Excellencys most humble Servt,
John Hanson
Receiverâs copy, Lee, Horsey, and Carroll Papers deposit (1985), Maryland Historical Society.
1 See Virginia Delegates to Benjamin Harrison, this date, note 1.