New York August 16. 1785
Sir.
If, during the time of my absence, any business occurs that requires my signature;1 be pleased to transmit such to me at Doctr. Shippens in Philadelphia from whence you will receive a speedy return.
I have the honor to be, with much esteem & regard, Sir your most obedient and very humble servant,
Richard Henry Lee
Receiver's copy, Papers of Continental Congress, item 78, U.S. National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, D.C.
1 For Lee's "absence" from Congress August 17 to September 29 for the recovery of his health, see JCC, 29:631, 775, 787; Lee to Thomson, August 21; and Samuel Holten to William Gordon, August 22, note 4.