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 ...

966 CONTROVERSY RESPECTING THE
York, declares they will establish their State by the sword, and
fight all who shall attempt to oppose them. Nothing but the
reluctance the people here have to shedding human Blood could
hinder them from attempting to rescue the Prisoners-they had
every insult which the human mind is able to conceive of to
prompt them to it, Our situation is truly critical and distressing,
we therefore most humbly beseech your Excellency to take the
most speedy & effectual Measures for our Relief; otherwise our
Persons and Property must be at the disposal of Ethan Allin
which is more to be dreaded than Death with all its Terrors.
Sir we are with the greatest esteem
Your Excellency's most obt humble servts
Signed by order of the Committee
SAMUEL MINOTT Chairman.
To his Excellency George Clinton Esq. Gov. of the State of
New-York.
GOV. CLINTON TO PRESIDENT JAY.
May 29t 1779,
Sir
You will perceive from the enclosed Papers that what I have
long expected and frequently apprized Congress of has actually
happened. These papers which need no Comment I have
transmitted to your Excellency by Express with an earnest
Request that you will please immediately lay it before Congress.
Althol this matter will scarce admit of a moment's delay; yet
as the Legislature are to meet on Tuesday next I shall defer
etaking any decisive measures (except issuing the necessary
orders to the militia to hold themselves in readiness) until I can
have an opportunity of obtaining their advice and Direction.
I am &c. &c.
GEO. CLINTON.
His Excellency John lay Esq. President of Congress.