Morris, Robert, 1734-1806 to William Whipple
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06532 Author/Creator: Morris, Robert, 1734-1806 Place Written: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 5 August 1777 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 23.5 x 19 cm. Order a Copy
Morris, a Continental Congressman, discusses naval affairs with Whipple, chairman of the Congressional Marine Committee. Refers to a recent motion in Congress authorizing the Marine Committee to halt the construction of several ships of war. Since the motion was carried, relates that a stop will be put on the construction of a ship in the Connecticut River. Refers to Mr. Shaw (possibly Nathaniel Shaw, a Connecticut shipowner, merchant, and Continental agent) and Captain Chew (possibly Samuel Chew). Mentions the ships Alfred, Ranger (Captained by John Paul Jones), and Raleigh (Captained by Thomas Thompson). States "you know it had always been my opinion that our ships should go where the Enemy are weak [?] not Cruise on our own Coasts to expose our Weakness and then to be constantly taken from us. Jones has order to go for Europe I will try for similar orders for the Raleigh and send them to you but in the mean time pray let Capt Thompson go & take some prizes out of the Jamaica Fleets." Reports that British General William Howe "with 230 sail of ships appeared at our Capes a few days ago," then sailed out of sight. Docleted by Whipple.
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