[Pamphlets. American history]

225
Jan. 23." 1781.
Dear Sir
You will have found, on seeing M.r Gerry that I
endeavor to economize. I told him that "aM.' Dana had
a Commission" for Russia, and I referred him to my
"Scrawl to you" for other Points. Nlaryland confederates, Virginia seemzs to give away Somqethigzy for the ogood
of the Union and recommends to others to do the like.
I will aim to get the Act long' enotgh to find Time to
copy it, if AM.r Otis does not leave this City today. The
Com.tee of April 10.tO", 80 on Depreciation for the Staff
was filled lup Jan.y 5.thl 81 and the Instructions to the
Delegates of M'lass: were referred. AMoney is exceeding'ly scarce here yet Exchang'e is firom 100 to 115 old for
Silver. Loaf' Sugar 2s 6 or 36 dollars p.r lb. I pay 200
for Stockings and the same for Shoes. Comp)ulsion is
urged as a congressional measure by Jersey & Pensylv.a
but I think we are become too wise. Things appear to
M.r J. Adams Oct: 24 to indicate a malignant Continuance of War on the Part of' Britain.
I should have mlentioned that MAaryland has limited the
Time beyond which she will llot receive the old money.
I wish I could purchase up all your new. It will most
assuredly be high in Credit soon, tho' it seemed a little
while ago as if the' other States meant not to act in concert upon the Plan of the 18 of Mllarch.
We are determined it shall have its Chance of Success;
We, mighty Men, totally dependent upon 13 Legislatures
different in Views, for Support in our smallest Endeavors
to carry on the War. Indeed, my clear Sir, vwe are in a
Condition as to payment of our Debts that is most tormenting. All oiur Creditors mqutst loan to us, and C. suppose most of them would willingly do it if they saw their
interest certain agoainst the due Day. I wish you w.d tell
me upon what Resolve it is that our Court have acted in
Regard to advances to Allen the Indiall Agoent. I can
only find Jan.Y 8 and May'13 1777 which my Colleagues
say is not what they have supposed to be at all. I will
continue my Search. M.r Gerry had a memorand.m of
the secret Resolves of all the years. We have some cold