2 November 1785

Peirce, John, 1750-1798

Manuscript letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Writes, "I do myself the honor to enclose you copies of a conveyance respecting Colonel [likely Robert] Troup's commutations, by which it will appear that I made two difficulties in granting it- The first (and only one now remaining) that his military Commission was superceeded on his acceptance of his appointment as Secretary to the Board of Treasury- My opinion was founded on this principle that it is incompatable with the rules of Congress for one person to enjoy the emoluments of two appointments, unless there is an express provision made for it, and that the acceptance of a latter…

GLC02437.03213

21 October 1787

Peirce, John, 1750-1798

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Discusses the sentiments of the people of Virginia as well as the state Assembly and Senate in regards to the Constitution. "The People of this state appear to be principally in favor of the constitution: but I think that a great part of the Gentlemen and Politicians of the country are against it. The leading members in the Assembly are also against it - among which are Patrick Henry, Colo. Bland and others... " Says the governor [Edmund Randolph] "feels his character interested in its destruction." Says there will be a meeting held next Thursday to decide if they should hold a convention.…

GLC02437.03678

12 November 1787

Peirce, John, 1750-1798

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Gives information about events in Virginia related to ratifying the Constitution. Encloses an act [not present] "now adopted by the legislature," about calling a convention. States that, "the policy of the state is against the constitution and the union itself. a great majority of the members of the Legislature are opposed to it - but the body of the people at large continues in favor of it." Believes the representatives will cave when they return home and are influenced by the people. Mentions the recommendation of Congress respecting British debt and states, "Patrick Henry is against…

GLC02437.03703

19 November 1787

Peirce, John, 1750-1798

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Discusses the delegates' agreement to pay British debts but only if the other states ratify a similar provision. Writes that "Mr. Henry in his harangue respecting this question attacked the constitution of the Union in the strongest terms and endeavored to sow the seeds of jealousy against the federal courts, the new england states and the spirit of the union itself." Discusses concern for federal defrayment of state debt.

GLC02437.03707

17 July 1782

Peirce, John, 1750-1798

Manuscript document

Title: Return of sundry articles which are much wanted for the different posts on the Mohawk River

In the handwriting of Captain Peirce of the artillery, most likely John Peirce, son of Isaac Peirce and younger brother of Joseph. Chart for supplies wanted at different posts on the Mohawk River in New York. Divided into five columns: for 12 pounder, for 7 pdr, for 6 pounds, for 3 pounder, and sundry articles. The cannons need flannel and paper cartridges as well as caps, cylinders, grape shot, and round shot. The sundry articles include lead aprons, twine, thread, yard, paper, and matches. Note on bottom says a quantity of oakum for the corking magazine is desired, as well as a quantity of…

GLC02437.01488

27 October 1787

Peirce, John, 1750-1798

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Summarizes the proceedings of a committee of the Massachusetts House of Representatives called to consider ratification of the United States Constitution. Mentions proposals made by representatives to empower the committee to ratify the constitution and to make amendments, if necessary. Some representatives wished to make amendments "as they believed there were many very important Errors in it." A resolution was unanimously passed that "the plan of the national government of the U.S. as transmitted by Congress, ought to be submitted to a convention of the people, for their full, free…

GLC02437.03683