McDougall, Alexander, 1732-1786 to Henry Knox

Written by General McDougall to Major General Knox. Says nothing decisive about whether the half-pay pension issue has been decided. Says it took a week of travel to get to Philadelphia in bad weather. Wanted to lobby the delegates before the memorial was put before Congress. Says that has been accomplished and after the memorial was submitted, Congress decided to form a committee with a member from each state. Says that they will meet tomorrow night. Encloses a list of the committee members (not included here). Reports that "The Result of our Conversation with the members is, that a great Majority of Congress, are seriously disposed to do everything in their power for the fulfilment of all their engagements to the Army." But goes on to say "the great difficulty is Cash for present Wants and permanent funds, for what has been long due, and for what they have promised us in the future." Says that Congress should recommend to the states to make provisions to pay the country's debts. Wonders if New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut and New Jersey will even pass vague laws recognizing those debts. Wants Knox and Washington to think about the issue as he will probably have to question them about it soon. Says "The expences at this place are enormous." Next to docket is a pencil drawing of a classical building with a row of arches.