Bowdoin, James, 1726-1790 to Jonathan Trumbull
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04947 Author/Creator: Bowdoin, James, 1726-1790 Place Written: Boston, Massachusetts Type: Letter signed Date: 13 December 1776 Pagination: 4 p. : docket ; 36.5 x 23.5. Order a Copy
Informs Trumbull, Governor of Connecticut, that "We join with you most fervently in your prayer that America may not be lost, or fall a Victim to the rage of a merciless tyranny. On the contrary we trust there is virtue & spirit enough in the United States to produce exertions sufficient with the blessing of Heaven to prevent it." Discusses details regarding enlisting soldiers for the Continental Army, including wages, length of service, the raising of militia, and cooperation between New England states related to raising troops. Mentions Generals George Washington, Lincoln (possibly Benjamin Lincoln), Philip Schuyler, and Rhode Island Governor Nicholas Cooke. Reports that some clothing and shoes were taken from the British army and brought into Massachusetts, but states that this quantity is smaller than it was described in the papers. Refers to a cartel at New London, Connecticut, open for the exchange of prisoners and asks if sailors "taken on board merchantmen will be received in exchange for Sailors taken on board privateers." Acknowledges receipt of previous correspondence from Trumbull containing copies of a letter and resolves of the Committee of Safety for the State of New York. Confirms that troops from Massachusetts will assist Rhode Island and Connecticut.
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