The Documentary history of the state of New-York; arranged under direction of the Hon. Christopher Morgan, secretary of State. By E. B. O'Callaghan ...

NEW HAMPSHIRE GRANTS. 941
HON. P. VAN CORTLANDT TO THE PREST OF CONGRESS.
At a time when the Counciis and arms of America should be
directed to the defence of all the United States against foreign
invasion, it gives us pain to find it our duty to call the attention
of Congress to the domestic concerns of this state. A faction
in the north eastern part of this state, aim at separation from it,
and have declared themselves independent.
Although we apprehend no great difficulties in reducing these
factious spirits to obedience and good order, by the justice and
vigour of the government of this state, without the aid of Congress, yet as a report prevails, and daily gains credit, that they are
privately countenanced in their designs by certain members of
your honorable house, we esteem it our duty to give you this
information, that by a proper resolution on that subject, the
reputation of Congress may cease to be injured by imputations
so disgraceful and dishonorable.
However unwilling we may be, to entertain suspicions so
disreputable to any member of Congress, yet the truth is, that no
inconsiderable numbers of the people of this state do believe the
report to be well founded, and of course, their confidence in the
justice, and their respect for the determination of Congress,
will, we fear, be diminished; nor can it be dficult to perceive
what an unhappy influence such reports and apprehensions have
on the minds of the best Whigs of this state, especially at this
critical juncture.
I have the honour to be, with great respect, Sir, your most
obedient and very humble servant,
(By order) PIERRE VAN CORTLANDT, P
May 28. 1777.
Hon. John Hancock, Esq. President &c.