Philadelphia 24th of Novr. 1775.
Sir,
As the contents of the inclosed paper concerns our common Countries, I have thought it my duty as a Delegate to Congress from Virginia to inclose it to you by the first opportunity.
1
As Salt is now much wanted in Virginia and the Country has been favored with a plentiful crop the last season, it will be very convenient for both Countries that your Island furnish that article quickly as possible, and to the full amount permitted by the resolution of Congress. The restraining Act of Parliament of the last Session does not interfere with you in this business, yet it will be prudent to make use of quick sailing Vessels, and if a few guns & men are put on board to keep off the small Tenders in Chesapeake Bay, that are every now & then committing Acts of piracy, they might be of service. It will be the most safe to run immediately up York, Rappahanock, or Potomack, as the Men of war generally lye in Hampton road or about Norfolk. The Committee of Safety sits constantly, and means will be taken to give all possible dispatch to your business in Virginia.
I write in great haste, and
2
Lee Papers, University of Virginia Archives Printed in James Curtis Ballagh, The Letters of Richard Henry Lee, Volume 1, 1762 - 1778, p. 158. Addressed to Tucker, Chairman of the District Committee in Bermuda.
1 The "inclosed paper" was doubtless a copy of congressional resolutions of November 22 on trade between the "united colonies" and Bermuda. JCC, 3:362 - 64. For additional information about Henry Tucker and relations between Congress and Bermuda, see Thomas Jefferson to St. George Tucker, 10 June 1775
2 Remainder of MS missing.