GIFT OF 
 Prof. P. L. Paxson 
 
WEBB 
 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
Of this letter-press edition 
 35O copies have been printed. 
 
 No. 
 
FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 OF 
 
 SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 \\ 
 17641807 
 
 EDITED BY 
 
 WORTHINGTON CHAUNCEY FORD 
 
 NEW YORK 
 
 MCMXII 
 
2-07 
 \A/5 
 
 
 THE UNIVERSITY PRESS, CAMBRIDGE, U. S. A. 
 
NOTE 
 
 IN 1893-1894 I issued three volumes of the "Correspond 
 ence and Journals of Samuel Blachley Webb," based 
 upon such papers of my grandfather as were then avail 
 able. There recently came into my possession a number 
 of family letters and papers, other than those used nearly 
 twenty years ago. They supplement and complete the 
 earlier volumes, which were concerned more closely with 
 his military career, and especially with his experience as a 
 prisoner of war on Long Island, and with the policy of 
 British and Americans on exchanges of prisoners of war. 
 This volume contains not a few military papers, and will 
 deal with his relations to his family, his social life, and the 
 conditions which marked the years after the War of Inde 
 pendence. The passage from colony to State, from a de 
 pendent to an independent people, and by a war which 
 was fought with little general disturbance to the country, 
 was yet disruptive of social conditions. The changes are 
 outlined in these family papers by those who felt without 
 understanding them, the best of recorders of such incidents. 
 Believing that they constitute a valuable contribution to 
 the history of social evolution in the first years of the 
 Republic, I have placed them in Mr. Ford s hands for 
 publication. 
 
 The three volumes of "Correspondence and Journals," 
 a volume of "Social Notes," containing some of the "bil 
 lets " or notes of invitation received bv General Webb, and 
 
 M194485 
 
VI NOTE 
 
 this volume of "Family Letters," comprise all of interest 
 in the Webb Papers in my possession. It is known that 
 these surviving papers formed part of a very large mass of 
 documents, and they must, therefore, be regarded as frag 
 mentary. They cover a certain aspect of social environ 
 ment which no other collection could cover in the same 
 manner. 
 
 W. SEWARD WEBB. 
 
PREFACE 
 
 YOUNG SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB naturally fol 
 lowed the profession of his father, and sent ships 
 to the West Indies laden with horses, wheat, 
 and provisions, the chief articles exported from Con 
 necticut. 1 On some of these ventures he went in per 
 son, and became acquainted with life in the islands, 
 forming mercantile connections which promised future 
 advantage, and mastering the elements of commerce 
 under favorable conditions. To be engaged in trade with 
 such men as Jeremiah Wadsworth of Connecticut and John 
 Alsop of New York, opened a prospect of profitable and 
 permanent success, for they commanded the confidence of 
 their clients and possessed the needed capital. The one 
 disturbing influence was his step-father, Silas Deane, whose 
 political career is well known, but whose honesty in money 
 matters becomes open to question in the light of letters 
 printed in this volume. He appears to have appropriated 
 to his own use what belonged to his wards, and no account 
 ing was possible after he went to France. This circum 
 stance plunged the Webbs into difficulties which nearly 
 proved disastrous, for they were called upon to pay debts 
 incurred by another, to settle accounts of which they had 
 no record, and to assume responsibilities growing out of 
 past transactions in which they could only feel that their 
 
 1 His career is more fully dealt with in the third volume of the 
 Correspondence and Journals. 
 
Vlll PREFACE 
 
 guardian had not protected their interest, if, indeed, he 
 had not used the opportunity to his own gain. The un 
 balanced account book and the inevitable difficulties at 
 tending an unsettled estate again and again proved annoy 
 ing and costly to the innocent sufferers. 
 
 Some of the documents relate to the period of Webb s 
 imprisonment on Long Island. From the Trumbull 
 Papers are drawn an account of his capture, due to no 
 fault of his own, and the letters from his officers and fellow 
 prisoners complement what was printed in the Corre 
 spondence and Journals. Irksome as were many features 
 of his life on Long Island, he was not without some amuse 
 ments and some advantageous social intercourse. The 
 lottery in many charitable and religious forms came as 
 near to offering excitement as was possible. He had access 
 to such literature as was then approved, and through the 
 printer of the Royal Gazette, the capable Rivington, he was 
 able to obtain the latest issues of the English and the pirati 
 cal Irish presses, as well as the best intelligence from Europe 
 by the royalist newspapers and British magazines. There 
 were theaters and places of amusement near New York to 
 which he could resort, and at Flatbush could be found 
 some loyalists noted for their generous hospitality, a circle 
 which encouraged social gatherings where English and 
 American met upon an equality. Webb was fortunate in 
 having formed connections with the city before the war, 
 and he found old acquaintances or their connections on 
 the island, ready and happy to give him a welcome, and 
 to relieve to the utmost of their ability the necessarily 
 wearisome days of his durance. He felt the restraint of 
 his captivity, and chafed under its restrictions, though 
 those had been lightened as far as was consistent with 
 
PREFACE i x 
 
 safety and discipline. He was at first inclined to blame his 
 family, his friends, his commander, for their neglect and 
 want of effort to release him, even under parole. In fact, 
 no one could reasonably be blamed for the situation. His 
 family did their utmost in sending him money, provisions, 
 forage for his horse, and intelligence from his circle of 
 friends. His friends were powerless to release him, for he 
 was a prisoner of war, captured in an open and fair manner, 
 and therefore subject to the routine of regulations which 
 the rules of war imposed. These rules had not yet been 
 so far defined as to permit of his exchange. The British 
 would not frame a system of general exchanges, because 
 by so doing they would recognize the Americans as bellig 
 erents, and they could look upon them only as rebels. 
 Being of the Continental Army he was subject to the au 
 thority of Washington, and even Washington could not 
 submit to other than a general exchange, regularly con 
 ducted upon perfectly equal terms. Such the English 
 generals would not permit, and Webb, the individual, suf 
 fered. It was a simple matter to preach patience to him, 
 but it was difficult to practice that virtue when the real 
 cause of his being kept a prisoner remained unknown to 
 him, and he was made aware only of the promises of re 
 lease but not of the supreme difficulties to accomplishing it. 
 Webb s military enthusiasm was yet too fresh to permit 
 him to accept the situation with complacency. Proud of 
 his regiment, and possessing the full confidence of his men, 
 he was eager again to take his place at its head, and again 
 to tempt the fortunes of war. Perhaps he was not such a 
 loser as he seemed to be. Military service in the Conti 
 nental Army was most uncertain, and an officer was quite 
 as likely to have only the privations without the glory, the 
 
X PREFACE 
 
 penalties without the rewards of bravery and devotion to 
 duty. Webb s own regiment came to speak of the "hated 
 Highlands," the most important military position of the 
 North, but where a regiment grew rusty in garrison, and 
 neither saw nor felt the stimulating service that marches 
 and fighting give. Discipline was maintained, but it was a 
 tiresome routine, offering little variety and broken only 
 by a court martial or a foraging expedition. Besides, pay 
 was low, was not regular, and often stood in heavy arrears; 
 but expenses continued and the situation of the officers 
 became worse each year. Even with the main army, 
 where the heaviest demands were made upon the troops, 
 victories were few and of little importance, the regular 
 duties were exacting, and the spirit of the men was kept 
 at a low ebb because of the uncertainty of the future. 
 The private no longer came into service flushed with patri 
 otic ardor for the cause and intent upon redressing wrongs 
 which he felt and against which he had taken arms. He 
 came under the bribe of a bounty and had only a little in 
 terest in doing more than the army regulations required. 
 This was as true of the New England troops as of those 
 from other States. In a few years the tone of the army had 
 changed for the worse; it required a few more years of 
 hardship and intense suffering and sacrifice to produce 
 the army that closed the war, an army of which any people 
 could be proud, and a body of officers and men that in 
 peace proved their high ideals and their worth to the Union 
 as fully as they had proved their qualities in war. 
 
 No stone was left unturned to secure Webb s release, 
 but nothing could be done until a great concession was 
 made by the British and he came out of New York on 
 parole. This meant only another form of inaction, for he 
 
PREFACE x | 
 
 could not serve at the head of his regiment, and he was liable 
 to be called back to Long Island at any time, and upon a 
 frivolous pretext. An indiscretion committed by an officer 
 in Carolina might result in the English general s issuing an 
 order for the immediate return of all prisoners on parole. 
 Such a situation reduced him to inaction. Reports of the 
 condition of his regiment could be made to him, and he 
 could offer his advice when asked. He was able to visit his 
 companions in arms, and in New Jersey found a congenial 
 circle where he contracted a servitude which sweetened 
 his days and gave him a loving and loyal wife. Elizabeth 
 Bancker united the praises of all who knew her, and the 
 short life given to her after marriage made the beauty of 
 her character the greater. In the hope of saving her from 
 death both the American and British commanders relaxed 
 the regulations laid down to govern intercourse, and Webb 
 on this sad voyage enjoyed the sense of sympathy from 
 foe as well as from friend. 
 
 It is not necessary to trace in detail the events that fol 
 lowed Webb s release from his captivity with the British. 
 The last years of the war brought hard service, and few 
 opportunities for brilliant actions. He labored much over 
 his regiment, and gained praise for its good appearance, 
 discipline, and manual performances. He was given the 
 command of the Light Infantry, and, hutted on the banks of 
 the Hudson, took his share of camp and guard service. It 
 was not all toil. A ball, a supper, a feast on some dainties 
 sent from friends, and the usual sports of winter and summer 
 broke the monotony. He was fortunate in his friends, and 
 to Mrs. Greene and Mrs. Knox, the leaders of social 
 pleasures, his relations were close. Before the disbanding 
 of the army he had a very wide circle of friends and a still 
 
Xll PREFACE 
 
 wider one of acquaintances, and from all sections of the 
 Confederation. He laid down his commission with regret, 
 and his son inherited his liking for a military career. 
 
 Removing to New York, Webb sought to form connec 
 tions that might establish him in some business calling. 
 Too little is known of the steps he took in this direction, but 
 Jeremiah Wadsworth appears to be his sponsor, and a 
 better could not be desired. Either the opening was not 
 so good as it promised to be, or the adventurers were 
 alarmed by the uncertainties of all trade; for Webb re 
 mained without active employment, and his ambition led 
 him to seek public office. Again the conditions were against 
 him. The number of offices under the Continent was 
 small, and the applicants many. The prospects of the hold 
 ers did not appear bright, as the Congress was sinking into 
 a state of hopelessness, scorned and neglected by the States, 
 and having no power of gaining strength and authority. 
 The formation of a federal government did not materially 
 alter the conditions. Again the positions were not sufficient 
 to meet the demand, and the rewards were given as seemed 
 best to the authorities. Webb naturally felt some disap 
 pointment, but accepted the situation without murmur 
 ing. With Richard Platt and others he engaged in buying 
 soldiers notes and State promises to pay, a very uncer 
 tain form of securities, and yet offering good profit when 
 judiciously purchased. With Judge Hogeboom he specu 
 lated in land claims and with success. His old comrades 
 made demands upon him, knowing his generosity and 
 kindly tact. One would borrow money, another would 
 borrow his horse or hunting outfit. Now he would be called 
 upon to settle some business matter, for banking opera 
 tions and the machinery of credit were little known; and 
 
PREFACE 
 
 Xlll 
 
 again he would be employed. to smooth over some love 
 affair that threatened disaster to one of the parties. Nor 
 were his own concerns always without responsibilities, and 
 once, at least, he fought a duel to establish his own position 
 in a matter which certainly did not call for so great a sac 
 rifice as life. At all times he was ready to preside over a 
 feast; to serve on the managing committee for the inaugu 
 ration ceremonies of 1789, when his chief took the oath as 
 the first President of the United States; or to conduct a 
 speculation. 
 
 In no respect did the war result in more arbitrary acts 
 than in those affecting the ownership and transfer of prop 
 erty. A loyalist forced to retire within the British lines or 
 to leave the country could only expect to lose the use of 
 and even his right to his lands and chattels. The cruel 
 laws of confiscation passed in many of the States fixed 
 upon him and his family a stigma of ill-repute as well as 
 inflicted a serious property loss. These laws and the dis 
 turbances introduced by war and a resort to paper money 
 gave every opportunity to the dishonest debtor and the un 
 scrupulous speculator. The honest creditor suffered in his 
 payments as well as in his receipts; debts were outlawed or 
 repudiated; the war prevented the payment as well as 
 the collection of debts, suspending action or giving an 
 opening to escape responsibilities. Webb was made to feel 
 this by the situation in which Richard Bancker s property 
 was left. A merchant of good reputation in New York, and 
 with an English connection, he had traded extensively 
 and become the agent for employing the capital of others, 
 for the colonies offered a higher rate of profit than could be 
 gained in England. His sudden death left his affairs in 
 confusion, and the war prevented an arrangement which 
 
XIV PREFACE 
 
 could satisfy the creditors. The property was in the city 
 of New York, and rents could not be collected; the lands 
 outside of New York were either too near the seat of hos 
 tilities to be profitable, or too remote to be so directly 
 managed as to make returns. After the peace payments 
 were demanded, and on Webb fell the responsibility of 
 meeting them. Only a glimpse here and there of those 
 matters are afforded by these papers; but it is evident 
 that the final settlements were satisfactory to all, although 
 they demanded anxious care and a heavy sacrifice of prop 
 erties at times when only a part of their value could be ob 
 tained. For years after the peace the financial concerns of 
 the country remained in disorder, affecting all private 
 business and all forms of commercial dealings. The dis 
 asters were many and widespread. 
 
 Among those affected was his brother, Joseph Webb. 
 He had been a trusted agent by the State and the Con 
 tinent during the war, and had on many occasions taken a 
 flag into New York for the relief of the American prison 
 ers there, or to answer the many calls that such missions 
 imply. These flags were given only to the most trusted, for 
 the temptation to abuse the privilege proved too strong for 
 the weak. He had many acquaintances, as well as friends, 
 among the British, and he was a welcome visitor, even 
 if he were not on an errand of mercy but in the performance 
 of some routine of intercourse between hostile camps. He 
 obtained a large contract for leather from the commissary 
 department of the American army, and fulfilled his contract 
 to the letter, something worthy of mention in that day when 
 the contractors, as they can do in war times, were accumu 
 lating large gains. He lived in comfort and had all the 
 employment he could desire. With the return of peace 
 
PREFACE XV 
 
 conditions changed much. The army contract was ter 
 minated, and left him with a plant all too large for ordinary 
 service, and difficult to manage at a profit. The old trade 
 debts of Silas Deane came up for settlement, and the books 
 of accounts were wanting. His former partner, John Alsop, 
 pressed for payment of a debt, the real nature of which is 
 not shown by the letters, but in all probability dating be 
 fore the war. The son of John Simpson, a loyalist who 
 had sought refuge in the British lines, demanded his sup 
 posed share of the father s estate, a part of which he claimed 
 to be represented by goods sent to Webb in 1775, when 
 hostilities first broke forth. Jesse Deane, the son of Silas 
 Deane, and half-brother of the Webbs, called for a set 
 tlement of the Deane estate, about which little was known 
 save that Deane had managed it for his own advantage. 
 The State demanded its taxes and in cash, a commodity 
 difficult to obtain. This pressure all came at a time when 
 business was anything but profitable and when discontent 
 and real suffering were generally felt in Connecticut. The 
 story of the consequences is fully told in the following 
 pages. The wicked law of imprisonment for debt enabled 
 Alsop to seize upon the body of his creditor, and Joseph 
 Webb, unfortunate and not guilty of any wrong or decep 
 tion, suffered a short imprisonment which threatened to 
 break his spirit and ruin him entirely and finally. His 
 trial was a short one, soothed by brotherly and friendly 
 attention, and he came from the gaol with renewed courage 
 and succeeded in meeting all his creditors and again building 
 up a successful business. The story is well worth preserv 
 ing, because it pictures the disturbed commerce of the day 
 and the hardships it imposed upon those who were unable 
 to meet its uncertainties. It also shows a man who re- 
 
XVI PREFACE 
 
 tained through all his trials the confidence of his friends 
 and his position in the community. 
 
 In Webb s career a series of chance occurrences may ap 
 parently be traced. A mercantile career was closed by the 
 war. He had an opportunity to win military glory, but 
 his captivity interfered. He almost secured the post of 
 Secretary at War under the Confederation, and would have 
 received the appointment had not General Knox s necessi 
 ties obliged him to take it. He considered going with 
 Winthrop Sargent to the Western country, and thus be 
 coming identified with the frontier, but his marriage fixed 
 him in the East, and led him to the Hudson where he passed 
 the later years of his life. His early property was wasted by 
 his step-father, Silas Deane, and the creditors of his wife s 
 father, Richard Bancker, whom he never saw, demanded 
 payment of long-standing debts from him. Never possessed 
 of large means, he had more than a competency, gained by 
 his good management and foresight, and with what he 
 had he was generous to those less fortunate, and gen 
 erous to those he loved. 
 
 Few of Webb s own letters appear in this volume. It is 
 known that he wrote many, but he kept copies of few, even 
 when important business matters were involved. That his 
 family letters were constant and interesting the former 
 volumes proved; his regimental correspondence and re 
 ports contained all that the requirements of service de 
 manded; his business letters covered a wide range of 
 subjects -- trade, lotteries, privateering, speculation in 
 lands and in public securities, and the management of 
 properties of others; his social and friendly letters were 
 numerous, sympathetic, and helpful, and are known only 
 by the responses they called out. The mere names of his 
 
PREFACE 
 
 correspondents whet the appetite of those interested in 
 history, social and personal, and what remains of the orig 
 inal mass awakens regret that the whole was not preserved 
 from the chance that threatens every form of written his 
 torical record. 
 
 Such a collection of papers serves many useful purposes, 
 however fragmentary and unrelated they may appear. The 
 value lies in the light thrown upon social conditions. A 
 New England town, Wethersfield was as a hundred like 
 places until it becomes differentiated by persons and inci 
 dents. Military service can be described mechanically 
 from the book of tactics and discipline; but it becomes 
 instinct with life when described by an active participant 
 in the service, whether in garrison or in the field. A table 
 of figures will give the fluctuations in the prices of public 
 securities, but only from an investor who has staked his 
 money on the event can the effects of the fluctuations be 
 felt and measured. His hopes and his fears, his calcula 
 tions and forecasts, give life to the dull figures, even though 
 they without doubt exaggerate the movement. A friendly 
 letter affords a mention of customs and manners too trivial 
 for the historian, yet essentially a part of the daily life of 
 the people. Even in the sorrows and tragedies of the in 
 dividual, characters may be drawn and traits studied as 
 no other means could afford. 
 
 In no respect is the change in manners more marked than 
 in the pleasures in which they indulged. Lebanon Springs 
 was a true health resort, and not a place where the mildly 
 ill offered an excuse for a thousand other indulgences. 
 Horse riding and racing, card playing, a turtle dinner 
 occasionally, a ball or assembly, the hunting of game and 
 the exchange of visits such were the simpler life in a Con- 
 
XV111 PREFACE 
 
 necticut town. At New York the social pleasures and the 
 range of activities were greater. The differences caused by 
 the war were soon forgotten, and loyalist again took his 
 place in business and in society, claiming and receiving the 
 attention his worth and abilities could command. The 
 names of the leaders in New York ran back into the history 
 of the earliest colonizers, Dutch and English; they have 
 been continued to the present day and are w r oven into the 
 tissue of New York s later history. The city soon forged 
 ahead of its rivals and, favored by situation, by the enter 
 prise of its citizens, and by the tapping of the great Western 
 regions, became the metropolis it now is. In this growth 
 Webb had but little part, for his health, never robust, 
 obliged him to seek a quieter surrounding. After his sec 
 ond marriage he settled at Claverack, New York, and 
 there found a congenial circle. He took a mild interest 
 in the tangled politics of the day, but seems not to have 
 sought preferment for himself. Perhaps the career of a 
 member of Congress or of the State legislature held cut 
 little inducement to incur the partisan abuse that arose 
 from the contest between Hamilton and Burr, the federalist 
 and the democratic, the "natural" aristocrat, and the up- 
 country equality-man. There is no record of his taking an 
 active part with either side, though -all his leanings must 
 have been with the Federalists, whose strength so largely 
 depended upon his old army comrades and the men who 
 had been prominent in civil life during the years of the war. 
 His family, his friends, and his farm, his circle of social 
 and agricultural duties and pleasures sufficed to keep him 
 occupied, contented, and a good citizen. The end came 
 in December, 1807. WORTHINGTON CHAUNCEY FORD. 
 
 Boston, October, 1912. 
 
CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 NOTE v 
 
 PREFACE vii 
 
 1764 
 April 3. RICHARD NEAVE AND SON TO RICHARD BANCKER i 
 
 Sends invoice of goods shipped. Parliament lays duties on merchandise imported into 
 America, and reduces drawbacks. 
 
 1772 
 
 April ii. THOMAS PALMER TO RICHARD BANCKER i 
 
 Hindrance to survey. Sends lottery tickets, a form of begging. 
 
 1773 
 
 February 10. FROM WAT STEWART 2 
 
 Arrives at Gibraltar. Description of the Rock. Garrison and churches. War be 
 tween Dutch and Emperor of Morocco. 
 
 October 30. FROM CHARLES WHITING 4 
 
 Reproaches for not coming. Death of Mrs. Meigs. Requests for articles of use. 
 
 December 11. FROM DEMAUREGNAULT AND CUSSON . 6 
 
 Acknowledgment of debt. Manner of payment. 
 
 1774 
 
 January 25. RICHARD NEAVE AND SON TO RICHARD BANCKER .... 7 
 
 Sends deeds executed by Mrs. Stables. Should be recorded. 
 
 May. ACT OF ASSEMBLY OF CONNECTICUT 7 
 
 Giving authority to Silas Deane and Anne Mix to perfect titles to property. 
 
 July i. FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH 9 
 
 Statement of the situation of accounts at Mole St. Nicholas. Price current. 
 
 July 4. SILAS DEANE TO WILLIAM COOPER 10 
 
 Letter from the Connecticut Committee of Correspondence. The general Congress and 
 rumor that Gage would attend. Effect of his proclamation. Plea for united action. 
 
 December . AGREEMENT FOR PASSAGE AND SERVICE 12 
 
 1775 
 March 29. FROM JOHN SIMPSON *3 
 
 Conduct of Silas Deane. Should press for a settlement. Dr. Johnson to be consulted. 
 Disposal of his goods. 
 
 April 5. FROM JOHN SIMPSON 
 
 Has ordered his goods to Wethersfield. Hopes an amicable settlement of differences 
 with England. 
 
 April ii. FROM JOHN SIMPSON , ; , c IS 
 
 Law dispute with Deane. Asks for a copy of his accounts. His claim to one-t 
 
 the estate. Should push the settlement. Wishes his goods sold. Will remain m Boston. 
 
XX CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 June 8. FROM JOHN SIMPSON 18 
 
 Arranges for a meeting. 
 
 September 13. FROM JOHN SIMPSON 18 
 
 Is grateful for peaches. As to coming to Wethersfield and his reception by the people. 
 How are debts paid? Means of moving. Questions on accounts. Stock of fresh pro 
 visions. Proposes to remain till news from England. 
 
 October 21. FROM JOHN SIMPSON 21 
 
 Has not received his letters. Wishes for fresh provisions. Money is running short. 
 
 November 22. SALE OF A HORSE 22 
 
 1776 
 March 21. SAMUEL STRINGER TO WALTER V. WEMPLE 23 
 
 Howe to leave Boston. Expects to take the field soon. 
 
 October 14. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 23 
 
 Cloth for an uniform. Asks good treatment for certain loyalists. Release could work 
 no injury. 
 
 November n. FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH 26 
 
 Will attend to his affairs. Has lost a horse. Great waste in military stores. Measures 
 for his protection. Girls are articles of stores. 
 
 1777 
 
 January 18. FROM THOMAS MIFFLIN 27 
 
 Order for scarlet clothing for his regiment. 
 
 March 4. FROM THOMAS MUMFORD 28 
 
 Recommends his son, Giles, for an appointment. Places him in his care. 
 
 April 21. JAMES BOWDOIN TO GEORGE WASHINGTON 29 
 
 On losses sustained by Temple. Asks that consideration be given to his claims. 
 
 June 16. ENLISTMENT RECEIPT 30 
 
 June 28. FROM ZABDIEL ROGERS 30 
 
 Articles wanted sent by team. List and manner of settlement. 
 
 July 15. SERVICE OF JOHN PALSGRAVE WYLLYS 31 
 
 July 26. To MRS. SIMPSON 32 
 
 Lieut. Col. Livingston goes to New York. 
 
 November i. RECEIPT FOR A HORSE 32 
 
 November 6. FROM JONATHAN HASTINGS, JR 33 
 
 Letterjor a lady. Should be more punctual. 
 
 November 9. FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH ..." 33 
 
 Will give letter for letter. Compliments from a lady. Question as to writer. 
 
 December 14. JOHN ELY TO MUMFORD AND SHAW 34 
 
 Gives an account of his capture. Colonel Webb nearly drowned. Exchange proposed. 
 
 December 14. JABEZ HUNTINGTON TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL 35 
 
 Parsons in danger on Long Island. Aid sent to him. Capture of Webb and Ely. Es 
 cape of Ebenezer Huntington. 
 
 December 19. JABEZ HUNTINGTON TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL 36 
 
 Recommends Colonel Webb. Exchanges suggested for Webb and Ely. 
 
 1778 
 
 January 8. FROM NATHAN BLODGET 37 
 
 Wishes a receipt for clothing issued on his order. 
 
CONTENTS Xxi 
 
 PAGE 
 
 January 9. JOSEPH BARTON TO JOSEPH WEBB 38 
 
 Regrets offense given to governor by his letter. 
 February 6. FROM JOHN HART 38 
 
 Settlement of recruiting accounts. 
 
 February 18. THOMAS MUMFORD TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL 39 
 
 Ely s exchange for Delancey. 
 
 February 27. FROM TERENCE MCDERMOTT 40 
 
 Wishes him to call. 
 February 28. FROM MRS. SIMPSON 41 
 
 Letter of encouragement. Home news. 
 
 February 28. FROM MEHITABEL WEBB 42 
 
 Auxiety for his exchange. The Sherbrookes. Home gossip. Messages to friends. 
 
 March i. FROM ELISHA HOPKINS 44 
 
 Wishes to receive what was sent to him by friends. Mumford s gift. Riley s situation. 
 
 March . FROM ANN GRANT 45 
 
 Regrets for his not coming. Messages. 
 
 March . FROM ANN GRANT 45 
 
 Not mentioned in letter. Friends to tea. Letters to be burned. 
 
 March 8. FROM: SAMUEL CAMFIELD 46 
 
 Encloses a bill for supplies. 
 
 March 17. FROM CHRISTOPHER MILLER 47 
 
 Sends newspapers. General Lee to go out, with Loring and Williams. 
 
 March 2 1. FROM SAMUEL CAMFIELD 47 
 
 Prevented from seeing him, and reasons for not coming. 
 
 March 22. FROM MRS. SIMPSON 49 
 
 Return of John Webb. Messages to friends. 
 
 March 22. FROM SYLVESTER BERING 
 
 Wishes to hear from him. 
 
 March 23. FROM THOMAS FANNING 
 
 Condoles with him on his captivity. Prospect of a general exchange. Some unsettled 
 accounts. Postscript by Trumbull. 
 
 April 7. JOSEPH WEBB TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL 
 
 Recommendation for Luke Fortune. The deserts of Mrs. Deming. Sons of Mrs. 
 Winthrop. Colonel Delancey s good behavior. 
 
 April 12. FROM L. CONNELL 
 
 Is ordered to New York. 
 
 April 12. FROM NATHAN FRINK 
 
 Sends papers for Mrs. Van Home. 
 
 April 20. FROM NATHAN FRINK 
 
 Importance of his papers. 
 
 April 29. FROM SAMUEL CAMFIELD . . . 
 
 An account. Wine and horses. 
 
 April 30. FROM MRS. SIMPSON 
 
 His health on the island. Visit from Dr. Tudor. Movements of friends. 
 
 May 2. FROM SAMUEL CAMFIELD 
 
 Sends some reading. The Sherbrookes. 
 
 May 5. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 
 
 Ensign Green to go to New York. Chagrined that no parole is granted. Carte 
 
 off. , 
 
 May 7. FROM MRS. SIMPSON 
 
 Message by Mr. Frink. Visits and departures of friends. Her painful situatio 
 
XX11 CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 May ii. FROM NATHAN FRINK 61 
 
 His business with Mrs. Van Home. Asks for his influence with her. 
 
 May . FROM E. V. EDWARDS 62 
 
 Has seen Jack at Morristown. Courtesy from Colonel White. Messages. 
 
 May 14. PAROLE OF COLONEL WEBB 63 
 
 May 16. FROM J. GREEN 64 
 
 Some papers sent in. Parsons comments prevent others. 
 
 May 16. FROM SAMUEL CAMFIELD 64 
 
 Sends money. 
 
 May 25. FROM SARAH SIMPSON 65 
 
 Her health. Wishes for his exchange. Family matters. 
 
 May 27. FROM SAMUEL CAMFIELD 65 
 
 Mrs. Hayes wishes to see him. Has invested in the lottery. 
 
 June . FROM JOSEPH FRENCH 66 
 
 Mrs. Van Home s papers. 
 
 June . FROM THOMAS CHAPMAN 67 
 
 Apology for failing to keep an engagement. Renews it. 
 
 June 2. FROM JOSEPH CHEW 67 
 
 Wishes to see him. Advances to prisoners. 
 
 June 8. FROM NATHAN FRINK, JR 68 
 
 Will send a horse. Mrs. Van Home s business. Full statement of the case. 
 
 June 12. To BARNABAS DEANE 71 
 
 Long been in hope of exchange or release on parole. Dr. Tudor can give list of cap 
 tured vessels. Message to Silas Deane. 
 
 June 21. FROM SARAH SIMPSON 72 
 
 Friends expect his return. Has a fine daughter. News of the family. 
 
 June 22. FROM HETTY WEBB 73 
 
 Every one looks for his speedy release. 
 
 June . BILL OF PERRY, HAYES & SHERBROOKE 74 
 
 July 4. FROM JOHN ATKINSON 74 
 
 Remittance received. Mountford Brown. Will visit him. 
 
 July 17. FROM JAMES MORRIS 75 
 
 Reasons for delay in return of pamphlets. His service in the hospital. Has received 
 no money, and is in need. Desires a parole. 
 
 September 9. JACOB SEBOR TO MILES SHERBROOKE 77 
 
 Order to pay. 
 
 October 6. FROM BENJAMIN TALLMADGE 77 
 
 Sends some money for Lieut. Riley. 
 
 October 17. FROM LEWIS PINTARD 78 
 
 To obtain an order from Lefferts. 
 
 October 26. FROM WILLIAM AXTELL 78 
 
 \Vill give his wish to Governor Try on. 
 
 November . FROM OLIVER SMITH 79 
 
 Sets out for Boston. Desires his commands. 
 
 December 3. FROM SAMUEL CAMFIELD 79 
 
 Captain Chapman s books. Webb to have use of them. 
 
 December 5. FROM HENRY VAN DYCK 80 
 
 Will not be able to visit him. Mrs. Van Home s deeds. Directions for sending. 
 
 December n. JOHN JONES TO SARAH BANCKER 81 
 
 Her brother s petition to Congress. 
 
CONTENTS 
 
 XX111 
 
 December 12. FROM HENRY VAN DYCK 
 
 Was prevented by indisposition from seeing him! Parole about to expire Wishes to 
 render him all possible service. A general exchange in prospect 
 
 December 16. FROM JOHN WINSLOW g,. 
 
 The British Commander in Chief allows him to rece ive hay and oats from his brother. 
 December 22. FROM LEWIS PINTARD g. 
 
 Distribution of money among the prisoners. 
 December 31. FROM JOHN WEBB 
 
 Why he has sent in no hay or oats. Surprised that he is not allowed to come out 
 
 Loves gratitude. Bills with Sherbrooke. Is not permitted to come to New York. 
 
 1779 
 
 . ELISHA HOPKINS TO MRS. BANCKER 
 
 Sends letter and messages. 
 January . SALE OF A HORSE g 7 
 
 January 8. FROM NATHAN FRINK 
 
 Letter partly in cipher. 
 January 9. FROM JAMES KEENS gg 
 
 Sends note from Commissary Loring. Quarters for returning officers. 
 
 January 16. HENRY REMSEN TO SARAH BANCKER 89 
 
 Needs bedding and other articles. Desires to exchange cloths for them. 
 
 January 21. FROM ELIHU HALL oo 
 
 Shoe and knee buckles and messages. 
 
 January . CAMFIELD S ACCOUNT oo 
 
 January 26. FROM JACOB SEBOR 9I 
 
 Asks about acceptance of bills. 
 
 . FROM NATHANAEL GREENE 01 
 
 Mrs. Greene will accompany him. 
 
 February . FROM S. NICOLL 92 
 
 Sends compliments and wishes for a general exchange. 
 February . FROM GEORGE BAYLOR ... 92 
 
 Webb will go to Philadelphia. 
 
 February 3. RECEIPT FOR FLOUR 92 
 
 February 3. BILL FOR WINE 93 
 
 February 4. FROM THOMAS MUMFORD 93 
 
 His exchange for prisoner taken by a privateer. Remanding of prisoners to New York. 
 Why Giles Mumford does not return. Sends money. Death of Mrs. Mumford. 
 
 February 6. FROM JOHN CHESTER 94 
 
 Need of his testimony in the Johnson suit. 
 
 February 10. BILL OF BERRY AND ROGERS 95 
 
 February 12. FROM NATHAN FRINK 96 
 
 Hay and oats to be sent in. His exchange for prisoners taken on sea. 
 
 February 18. FROM ROYAL FLINT 97 
 
 Sends copy of deposition. 
 
 February 20. FROM WILLIAM S. LIVINGSTON 97 
 
 Missed him on the road. Intends to go to Rhode Island. 
 
 March i. JACOBUS VAN ZANDT TO SARAH BANCKER 98 
 
 As to a pass for New York. The governor will not issue one. 
 
 March 2. FROM JAMES HERON "... 99 
 
 On a wretched horse. Introduces Colonel Butler. 
 
XXIV CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 March 3. FROM JOHN SWAN 99 
 
 Chides him for not writing. Amusements at Flatbush. Pass for Mrs. Bambridge. 
 
 The exchange. 
 
 March 3. A COMMERCIAL VENTURE 100 
 
 March 4. FROM MRS. DELANCEY 102 
 
 Send letters open for his inspection and delivery. 
 
 March 6. FROM JEREMIAH WADS WORTH 102 
 
 Desires some articles from New York. Hopes for his exchange. 
 
 March 15. FROM WILLIAM BLODGET 103 
 
 Invitations to a hop. 
 
 March 15. FROM CATHERINE W. LIVINGSTON 103 
 
 Sends letter for her uncle Clarkson. 
 
 March 20. FROM OTHO H. WILLIAMS 104 
 
 Sends messages to prisoners on Long Island. 
 
 March 24. To B. MCKENZIE 105 
 
 Is in need of money. 
 
 March 30. FROM JOHN WILEY 106 
 
 Order for money. 
 
 March 31. FROM NATHANIEL RAMSEY 106 
 
 A flag and parole. Sends pamphlets and wishes wine. 
 
 April 16. FROM WILLIAM AXTELL 107 
 
 Wishes a list of prisoners on parole. 
 April 20. FROM OTHO H. WILLIAMS 107 
 
 The situation on the North Branch of Rariton. 
 
 April . FROM WILLIAM THOMPSON 108 
 
 Could not get to Flatbush. Letters for Philadelphia. Swan should have been sent for 
 money. 
 
 . TWELVE S LETTER 108 
 
 April 23. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 109 
 
 Sends newspapers. Disappointed that he has not come out. The journey with the 
 Apthorpes. Seeds desired. Prisoners brought to Boston. 
 
 April . FROM AQUILA GILES in 
 
 Spy glasses and pistols. Magaw s marriage. 
 
 April 27. FROM JAMES KEENS in 
 
 Loring and the matter of exchanges. 
 
 May 2. FROM JAMES KEENS 112 
 
 Is going to Elizabethtown. Commissions. 
 
 May 5. FROM RICHARD SWANWICK 113 
 
 Wishes to obtain permission to see his wife. Has obtained some porter. 
 
 May ii. FROM EDWARD BULKLEY 114 
 
 Exchanges and paroles. Wishes a horse. 
 
 May 12. FROM WILLIAM THOMPSON 115 
 
 Paroles arranged. Notice to Magaw. 
 
 May 12. FROM JOSHUA LORING 115 
 
 Parole is granted and he will come to New York. 
 
 May 28. FROM BENJAMIN BROWN 116 
 
 Bundle left for him at Lord Sterling s quarters. 
 
 June . FROM MRS. G. APTHORPE 116 
 
 Sends letter to Major Bayard. 
 
 June . FROM JOHN BEATTY 117 
 
 Cannot breakfast with him. 
 
CONTENTS XXV 
 
 PAGE 
 
 June 17. FROM EDWARD BULKLEY ny 
 
 Laments that he is not exchanged. Has delivered messages. Social news of Flatbush. 
 June 20. - FROM SARAH BARRELL ng 
 
 News from Boston. Wishes him to come there. 
 
 June . FROM CAPTAIN BEDLOW up 
 
 Has been ill. 
 
 Julys. JOHN WITHERSPOON TO UDNEY HAY 119 
 
 As to the care of a horse. 
 
 July 31. JOSHUA LORING TO LIEUT. COL. SIMCOE 120 
 
 Papers to be sent by a flag to the outposts. 
 
 July . FROM GEORGE DRAPER I2 i 
 
 Order for corduroy. 
 
 August ii. FROM THOMAS MUMFORD 121 
 
 Hopes for his exchange. His regiment needs him. Is refitting the Hancock. 
 
 August 16. FROM FREDERICK JAY 122 
 
 Sends letters for New York. 
 
 August 24. A CLUB DINNER 123 
 
 September . FROM EDWARD BULKLEY 124 
 
 Conduct at Flatbush. Will form a mess and live better. Messages. 
 
 October 15. FROM SILAS DEANE 125 
 
 Disappointed in not seeing him. \Vishes to hear from him. 
 November . FROM JOHN BEATTY 126 
 
 Cannot wait upon him. Advice for his conduct on the certificate. 
 
 November i. FROM JOSEPH BARRELL 127 
 
 Successful privateers. Offers a share in one. Foolish Britain paying for her folly. 
 Promises wine. 
 
 November 13. FROM EDWARD BULKLEY 128 
 
 Regrets not getting necessaries. Condemned to longer stay as prisoner. 
 
 December 24. FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH 128 
 
 The letter for Miss Bancker. Is buried in business. 
 
 1780 
 
 January 23. FROM SAMUEL ALLEYNE OTIS 129 
 
 Wishes for an agreeable journey. 
 January 26. FROM NATHAN BEERS 129 
 
 Calls for accounts of clothing. 
 
 January 30. FROM NEHEMIAH HUBBARD . . 13 
 
 Letters and horses. 
 February . To THOMAS MUMFORD 13 1 
 
 Expected to see him. His brother s debt. Offers a phaeton. 
 February 13. FROM THOMAS MUMFORD i3 2 
 
 Declines the phaeton. No legal right to call for Captain Webb s debt. 
 February 26. FROM JAMES WATSON J 3 2 
 
 Balancing his account. Certificate for powder. 
 February 29. FROM JOHN RICE 
 
 Will deliver letter to Major Harnage. 
 March 7. FROM ELISHA HOPKINS X 34 
 
 Wishes supplies to discharge private debts. Messages from Flatb 
 
 March 20. FROM GEORGE OLCOTT . 
 
 Surgical instruments needed. 
 
XXVI CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 March 26. FROM JOHN CARTER 135 
 
 Wfshes to obtain permission to go to New York. 
 
 March 29. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 136 
 
 Social activity at Wethersfield. News of the privateers. 
 
 March . FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON 137 
 
 Cannot come to tea with the ladies. Business too exacting. 
 
 April -. FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON 138 
 
 Sends ball but no powder. Regrets not seeing the Lott family. A court martial de 
 tains him. 
 
 April 18. FROM GEORGE OLNEY 139 
 
 Mrs. Greene s carriage not available. Offers his own. 
 
 May . FROM WALTER STEWART 139 
 
 Herring received. May be unable to visit the Rariton. 
 
 June . FROM JOSEPH WEBB 140 
 
 As to Surinam accounts. Captures by the Experiment. 
 
 June . FROM TITUS HOSMER 140 
 
 Sends act of Assembly on Webb s battalion. 
 
 [June .] FROM WILLIAM HEATH 141 
 
 Advice to go northward. 
 
 July 17. FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH 141 
 
 Recommending some for a passage to Newport. 
 
 July 28. FROM EDWARD BULKLEY 142 
 
 Is anxiously awaiting a horse. All idea of an exchange at an end. Inattention of the 
 public. 
 
 August i. FROM EDWARD BULKLEY 142 
 
 Repeats his request for a horse. Public neglect of the prisoners. 
 August 6. FROM LEWIS MORRIS 143 
 
 Is happy to learn of his safe arrival. No exchange as yet. News of Miss Bancker. 
 Leaving of the Temples. 
 
 August 12. FROM JOHN HART 145 
 
 Settling the clothing account. 
 
 August 21. THOMAS MONCRIEFFE TO MRS. BANCKER 146 
 
 Has obtained a permit for her to come to New York. Payment of her claims. 
 
 August 31. FROM JOSEPH BARRELL 146 
 
 Disappointed not to receive a visit. Hopes to see him later. 
 
 December 17. FROM EDWARD BULKLEY AND ELISHA HOPKINS .... 147 
 
 Are released from Long Island. 
 
 December 24. FROM EDWARD BULKLEY 148 
 
 Purchase of canteens. Question of delivery. 
 
 1781 
 
 January 24. FROM ELISHA HOPKINS 149 
 
 Impossible to obey order to rejoin his regiment. Must resign or be ruined. 
 
 February 19. FROM SAMUEL HOLDEN PARSONS 150 
 
 Order to pursue deserters. 
 
 February 26. FROM ASHBEL RILEY 150 
 
 Congratulations on exchange of servitude. Is himself a prisoner on parole. Compli 
 ments. 
 
 March 2. FROM MOSES HAZEN 151 
 
 Parsons return. Will not go to Philadelphia as proposed. 
 
 March 4. FROM JOHN COCHRAN 151 
 
 Has not written to Governor for pass. Mrs. Bancker s situation. 
 
CONTENTS 
 
 XXV11 
 
 March 17. FROM PETER ROBERTSON . 
 
 Fanning to be sent on. Wishes a drummer and fifer. 
 March 19. FROM JOSEPH BARRELL . 
 
 ^newrSeeSired 3 haPPinCSS t0 ^ As to s ^ing th e officer s. 
 March 28. FROM JOHN HARTE 
 
 As to settling accounts. 
 
 March 28. FROM MANNING MERRILL 
 
 erS ** ^^ "^ person Has some * good wine. A card game in 
 
 April 29. FROM ISRAEL STRONG ........ 
 
 Is not in his power to join his regiment. 
 
 May 23. FROM RALPH POMEROY ...... 
 
 Cannot obtain horses without force or money. 
 
 May 28. FROM SAMUEL LOUDON . . . 
 
 Location of letters for him. 
 
 May 30. FROM JOHN KEESE ........ I - 8 
 
 Promises assistance with teams and forage. Orders issued. 
 
 May 31. FROM TEUNIS BOGERT ....... 
 
 Prospect of getting a two-horse wagon. 
 
 June i. FROM JOHN DURKEE .............. I ^ 
 
 On supplying a captain. 
 
 June 7. FROM EDWARD BULKLEY ........... j6 
 
 Strong wishes his discharge. Sends some shrub. 
 June 27. COURT MARTIAL .................. I ( )I 
 
 July 3. FROM JEREMIAH WADS WORTH ......... ... 162 
 
 Application for Mrs. Bancker to go to New York. 
 
 July 13. COURT MARTIAL ..................... j6 3 
 
 August 7. COURT MARTIAL .................... !6 4 
 
 August 12. FROM DAVID PARSONS ................. ^5 
 
 Is now at West Point. Sends some money. 
 
 August 18. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ................. ^5 
 
 Is building a barn. Barrell s prize. Visits planned. Sends papers. 
 August 22. FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON ............. 166 
 
 Sends articles for exchange. Fifer wanted. Are about to march. 
 August 28. FROM EDW T ARD BULKLEY ................ 167 
 
 Recruiting. Camp gossip. 
 
 September 24. FROM EDWARD BULKLEY . ...... " ....... 168 
 
 Sends letters. Hears Webb goes to Connecticut. News from Wethersfield. Officers 
 on leave. 
 
 November 13. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ................ 169 
 
 Would meet him, but is prevented. The house ready. Deane s plans. 
 
 November 13. FROM WILLIAM CONSTABLE ............. 170 
 
 Prices in the Havanna. Freights to Cadiz and Amsterdam. 
 
 November 14. FROM EDWARD BULKLEY .............. 171 
 
 Uniform of the regiment. Impatient for winter quarters. 
 
 November 28. FROM JOHN WEBB ................. 172 
 
 Sympathy for his loss. 
 
 December i. FROM EDWARD BULKLEY ............... 173 
 
 On death of Mrs. Webb. All horses ordered to be returned. Regimental matters. 
 
XXV111 CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 December 4. FROM JOHN DUYCKINCK 175 
 
 On death of Mrs. Webb. 
 
 December 4. JOHN DUYCKINCK TO SARAH BANCKER 176 
 
 Sympathy for death of daughter. 
 
 December 10. FROM JOHN PALSGRAVE WYLLYS 177 
 
 Has reached the Highlands. Regimental affairs. Soldiers uneasy. 
 
 December 24. FROM JOHN CHEVENARD 178 
 
 Asks a favor for one in his regiment. Reasons for the request. 
 
 December 27. FROM JOHN WEBB 179 
 
 Regrets for Mrs Webb. 
 
 December 31. FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON 180 
 
 Payment of a wager. 
 
 1782 
 
 January 10. GENERAL ORDERS ON LEAVE OF ABSENCE TO OFFICERS . 180 
 
 February 3. FROM STEPHEN BETTS 182 
 
 Inclosing order on furloughs. 
 
 February 3. FROM ELISHA HOPKINS 182 
 
 Progress in making clothing. No field officer with regiment. Russell s wages. His 
 baggage. Is entitled to a furlough. 
 
 February 15. FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON 184 
 
 Sends packet. Presence of Sergeant Hosmer necessary. 
 February 20. FROM ISRAEL STRONG 185 
 
 Prevented from returning. Returns his commission. 
 
 March 2. FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON 185 
 
 Appointments made. Regimental matters. 
 
 March 4. FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON 186 
 
 Discharge of Dr. West. Appointments recommended. 
 
 March 20. GULIAN VERPLANCK TO MRS. BANCKER 187 
 
 Applies for payment of bond. 
 
 March 28. JOHN DUYCKINCK TO MRS. BANCKER 188 
 
 Family news. Condition and work of the mills. High taxes and low priced grain. 
 Repairs needed. 
 
 April i. LEVINUS CLARKSON TO JOSEPH WEBB 190 
 
 Wants a price current. A shipping venture to Havanna. Directions to be followed. 
 
 April 2. JOHN NELSON TO JOSEPH WEBB 191 
 
 As to the Havanna venture. 
 
 April 7. FROM HARRIET WEBB 192 
 
 Time of parting has come. Should not lament the lost ones. 
 
 April 21. FROM SARAH BANCKER 194 
 
 Tea and articles to be sent. Dr. Cutting s verses on her daughter. Advises resigna 
 tion. Wethersfield s happenings. 
 
 April 23. COURT MARTIAL 196 
 
 May . FROM WILLIAM NORTH 197 
 
 Messages and newspapers. 
 May 2. To ABRAHAM OGDEN 198 
 
 Asks about a debt due Mrs. Bancker. 
 
 May 7. JOHN DUYCKINCK TO MRS. BANCKER 199 
 
 Affairs at the mills. Advises to sell them. Is to put up a distillery. Family news. 
 
 May 9. FROM SARAH BANCKER 200 
 
 Has written by every good opportunity. As to selling the mills. Movements of the 
 family and friends. Her own feelings. Deane remains. Death of Barrell s child. 
 
CONTENTS 
 
 May 23. FROM WILLIAM HEATH 
 
 Baron Steuben wishes to see him, or an officer of the Connecticut Line. 
 June 3. FROM JOHN PALSGRAVE WYLLYS 203 
 
 Duty much easier than had been imagined. Men grow sick fast. Meeting with some 
 
 refugees. 
 
 June 3. FROM SARAH BANCKER 20 , 
 
 Cutting s verses on Mrs. Webb. Health not so good. Ashmun s debt. Family 
 
 messages. 
 
 June 5. FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON 20 < 
 
 No newspapers. Two likely lads mustered out. 
 
 June 15. FROM SARAH BANCKER 205 
 
 Claim of Christopher Bancker. The question of the mills. Ogden s ignorance of busi 
 ness. Messages. 
 
 June 18. FROM SARAH BARRELL 207 
 
 Losses compared. Disappointed in his not visiting them. Time Will soften sorrow. 
 Sisterly messages. 
 
 June 20. FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON 209 
 
 Bad character of recruits. Defects in musters. Appointments to rank of ensign. 
 Promotions. Party for Boston. Expectation as to recruits. The bounty and women. 
 
 June 27. FROM THOMAS FREDERICK JACKSON 212 
 
 Ground assigned for the Connecticut Line s camp. 
 
 June 29. FROM WILLIAM HEATH 213 
 
 Certificates of discharge. 
 
 July 5. FROM SARAH BANCKER 213 
 
 Remembrance of her daughter. Has seen Dr. Cutting s verses. Some thoughts on sor 
 row. Directions on business matters. Soldiers notes. 
 
 July 14. FROM ROBERT MAGAW 215 
 
 Requests payment of an order. 
 
 July 21. FROM SARAH BANCKER 216 
 
 Expects to see him at Wethersfield. Captain Webb s visit. 
 
 August 26. FROM SARAH BANCKER 217 
 
 Asks care for her letters. Seizure of goods on Joseph Webb s vessel. Description of 
 some of the merchandise. 
 
 August 20. FROM THOMAS COGSWELL 218 
 
 Introducing William Skeels. 
 
 August 31. FROM EDWARD HAND 219 
 
 Orders for the Light Infantry. Repair of the road. 
 
 September 2. FROM JOHN WEBB 219 
 
 Joseph s misfortune. Wishes an active campaign or peace. Accounts to be settled. 
 
 September 7. FROM DAVID SMITH ....221 
 
 Mansfield s attempt to take prisoners. Intelligence from New York. 
 
 September 29. GULIAN VERPLANCK TO MRS. BANCKER 221 
 
 Asks for some assistance in his need. 
 
 September 29. FROM JOHN DUYCKINCK 
 
 Prevented from making a visit. Business of the mills and distillery. Messages. 
 
 Octobers. FROM SARAH BANCKER 
 
 British leaving New York. Wishes him to protect her friends there. 
 
 October 7. FROM SARAH BANCKER 22 4 
 
 The Verplanck matter. Waiting s debt. Affliction her portion in life. 
 
 October 9. FROM SARAH BANCKER 
 
 Settlement of the Verplanck bond. Prospects of obtaining the money. 
 
XXX CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 October 18. FROM JOHN WEBB 227 
 
 Articles sent and prices. Want of money. Sale of a horse. 
 
 October 27. FROM SARAH BANCKER 228 
 
 Forage and a colt. Conduct of Christopher Bancker. His grandfather s estate. Re 
 flections on the day. Sally Chester s marriage. 
 
 November i. FROM HEMAN SWIFT 230 
 
 Arrangement of grades to be made. 
 
 November 6. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 231 
 
 French army have left Hartford. Family supplies. 
 
 November 1 6. FROM GERARD G. BEEKMAN 232 
 
 Social. 
 
 November 19. FROM SARAH BANCKER 232 
 
 Grieving for her daughter. To stand godmother to Mrs. Gary s child. Wood from the 
 home lot. Flour difficult to get. 
 
 November 19. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 234 
 
 Has difficulty with his eyes. Care of family. Prices of flour and beef. 
 
 November 25. FROM FRANCES CARREY 235 
 
 Asks permit to visit home at Peekskill. 
 
 December 9. FROM NEHEMIAH HUBBARD 235 
 
 No crackers on hand, and no superfine flour to be had. 
 
 December ii. FROM DAVID SMITH 236 
 
 Leave of absence. 
 
 December 12. FROM HANNAH BIRDSALL 236 
 
 Sends balance of tea. 
 December 19. ON UNIFORM 237 
 
 December 27. FROM SARAH BANCKER 237 
 
 Expects to see him shortly. Hears he is ill. Want of snow. 
 
 December 29. FROM GERARDUS G. BEEKMAN, JR 238 
 
 Social note. 
 
 December 31. FROM RICHARD PLATT 239 
 
 Dispute over use of a boat. Asks for a conclusive answer. 
 
 December 31. To RICHARD PLATT 240 
 
 Explains his position on the boat. Has been in constant use. Will soon be at his 
 service. 
 
 1783 
 
 January . FROM JOSEPH WEBB 241 
 
 Sends sturgeon for General Washington. Advice on serving it. 
 
 February 21. FROM JOSEPH BARRELL 242 
 
 Illness of wife. Congratulations on peace. 
 
 February 24. GENERAL ORDERS 242 
 
 March 16. ABRAHAM BANCKER TO MRS. BANCKER 243 
 
 Calamities of war prevented communication. Christopher s family. Unruly domes 
 tics. Wishes to hear from her. 
 
 April 16. MEMORIAL OF CORPORALS 245 
 
 April 25. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 247 
 
 Mrs. Bancker going to New York. Sending to Headquarters. 
 
 April 29. FROM WILLIAM NORTH 247 
 
 Baron Steuben and John Webb. 
 
 May . FROM JOSEPH WEBB 248 
 
 Many commissions to be filled in New York. Supplies for Sheldon s regiment. 
 
CONTENTS XXxi 
 
 May 9. FROM MARY DUYCKINCK 
 
 News from Wethersfield. 
 
 June 8. FROM HENRY JACKSON . . 
 
 Arms on furlough. 
 
 July 7. FROM STACY HEPBURN 
 Seagrove s bill protested. 
 
 October . FROM WILLIAM STEPHENS SMITH 2 <>i 
 
 A social meeting and business opportunity. 
 
 November 2. To JOSEPH BARRELL 2^2 
 
 Directions for mourning rings. Sends some old gold. 
 November 13. FROM JESSE DEANE . . 2 r, 
 
 Excuses and directions. 
 
 November 17. FROM JEDIDIAH HUNTINGTON 
 As to Dr. Holmes. 
 
 November 24. FROM SIMEON DEANE 254 
 
 Must leave for the south. Friendly messages. 
 
 December 22. FROM HECTOR ST. JOHN 254 
 
 Names of Frenchmen to be noticed. 
 
 1784 
 
 September 14. FROM JOSIAH WATSON 255 
 
 Settlement of BarrelPs account. 
 
 October 4. FROM CHRISTOPHER BANCKER 256 
 
 Asks legacy for his wife under will of William Smith. 
 November 10. A. M. DEPEYSTER TO MRS. BANCKER 257 
 
 Asks settlement of claim for legal services. 
 
 . MEMORANDUM or SERVICE 257 
 
 1785 
 January . FROM WINTHROP SARGENT 258 
 
 Regrets not being able to add to his pleasure. 
 
 February 8. FROM HENRY REMSEN 258 
 
 Wishes to consult with him. Suggests a place of meeting. 
 
 February 18. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 259 
 
 On Silas Deane. 
 February 26. JEREMIAH WADSWORTH TO HENRY KNOX 260 
 
 Office of Secretary at War. Recommends Webb for second place. 
 March 13. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 261 
 
 Death of Mrs. Bancker. Dr. Johnson to be consulted on property. Want of money. 
 
 Troubled by debts. 
 March 13. FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH 263 
 
 Knox will accept. Has no money available to lend. Sale of securities. 
 
 March 17. FROM JOSEPH BARRELL 2 ^4 
 
 Death of Mrs. Bancker. Directions for sending his horses. 
 
 March 20. FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH 
 
 Attempts to borrow money for his brother. 
 
 April ii. FROM SARAH BARRELL 
 
 On death of Mrs. Bancker. New York too gay. Mrs. Graham. 
 
 May 30. MARIA H. STABLES TO SARAH BANCKER . . 
 
 Has drawn bills on her for interest and arrears. 
 
XXX11 CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 June i. FROM WINTHROP SARGENT 269 
 
 Introduces young Sargent. 
 
 June 6. LANDS NEAR CROWN POINT 269 
 
 June 27. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 270 
 
 Several letters owing. Simpson s demands. Jack proposes to visit Quebec. 
 
 July 5. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 272 
 
 Wishes to hear from him. An adventure to Quebec. Health of Mrs. Webb. His 
 prospects. 
 
 July 8. FROM RICHARD GARY, JR 273 
 
 Will embark for New York when crop is finished. 
 
 August 10. FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON 273 
 
 Is unable to pay what he owes. 
 
 August 28. FROM DOMINIQUE DEBARTZCHY 274 
 
 Excuses and compliments. 
 
 October 3. FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN, JR 274 
 
 Business dull. Thinks of going to the Carolinas or Jamaica. Economy on postage. 
 October 3. FROM JOHN WEBB 275 
 
 Return from Quebec. Goes to Salisbury. W T ants a pointer dog. 
 October 17. FROM JOHN WEBB 276 
 
 Came as far as Horseneck, but unable to see him. Messages. 
 
 October 24. FROM JOHN DUYCKINCK 277 
 
 Terms on which he will take the mills. Is looking elsewhere. Their value. Will care 
 for his interest. Flour accounts. 
 
 1786 
 
 January . FROM JOHN LIVINGSTON 279 
 
 Invitation to dinner. 
 January i. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 280 
 
 Complaint by Major Bulkley. Wants to fill his tanyards. Commissions to be per 
 formed. 
 
 January 9. JOSEPH WEBB TO JOHN WEBB 281 
 
 What are the rumors he speaks of? Need of obtaining hides. 
 
 January 30. SARAH WICKHAM TO MRS. MORRIS 282 
 
 Wishes to use her sleigh. 
 
 February . FROM WILLIAM WICKHAM 283 
 
 Ticket for the Assembly. 
 
 March 3. AN INVITATION 283 
 
 March . FROM NATHANIEL SHALER 284 
 
 An excursion to the island. 
 
 March 12. FROM JOHN WEBB 284 
 
 Prices of public securities. His unhappy situation. Difficulties met. Salmon. Mar 
 riage of Rufus King. Prospects of securities. 
 
 March 29. FROM JOHN WEBB 287 
 
 Cannot buy without cash. Sends on some purchases. Directions as to letters and 
 buckles. Petition on estate. 
 
 April 8. FROM RICHARD PLATT 289 
 
 To buy securities. 
 
 April 9. FROM JOHN WEBB 289 
 
 King-Alsop match. Needs cash to buy what is offered. Western territory and public 
 appointments. Deane and the estate. Salmon. 
 
 . To SAMUEL HOLTON 292 
 
 Appointments in the Western territory. 
 
CONTENTS xxxiii 
 
 April 12. FROM JOHN WEBB 
 
 Amount of securities purchased. Rates given. Cash is needed. 
 
 April 14. FROM RICHARD PLATT .... 
 
 To continue purchases. Sends money. 
 
 April 19. FROM JOHN WEBB 
 
 Impossible to sell drafts Difficulty of obtaining money Sending salmon. Business 
 conditions compared. Buying land in Colchester. Prices of securities. 
 
 April 22. FROM RICHARD PLATT 
 
 Sending money to Georgia. Their speculation. 
 
 April 26. FROM JOHN WEBB 
 
 The admission of Platt. Need of speedy returns to make purchases. Prices and 
 onenngs. 
 
 May 15. FROM ROBERT MORRIS, JR * OI 
 
 Visit of an old Goshonite. Denounces a horse. 
 
 May 17. FROM WILLIAM WICKHAM 302 
 
 Will send money. Prevented by storm. 
 
 May 18. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 303 
 
 Able to pay creditors in lands or notes. Vexations over debts. Jack at Salisbury 
 Will try to come to New York. 
 
 May 18. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 304 
 
 Who can be the tale-bearers? Warned not to go to New York. Plenty of poor friends 
 His debt to Phenix. 
 
 May 21. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 306 
 
 Should he come to New York? Deane s creditors. Hides from Havanna. 
 
 June 3. FROM JOHN WEBB 308 
 
 Sends articles and notes. His return from Boston. Western lands. 
 
 July . FROM JOSEPH WEBB 308 
 
 News from Boston. Jesse Deane. Sugar wanted. Lawrence of London. 
 
 July 4. FROM JOHN WEBB 309 
 
 Bills and purchases. Wishes bedding. Seagrove s gun. Barrell s visit. 
 
 July 10. FROM WILLIAM LIVINGSTON, JR 311 
 
 Offers services for law matters in New Jersey. 
 
 July 16. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 311 
 
 Social news. Steuben s child. Wants a chaise. 
 
 August 24. FROM JOHN WEBB 312 
 
 Duel with Livingston. Shaler s business. Barrell s note. Various commissions. 
 Loan office certificates. 
 
 August 28. FROM GEORGE D. WICKHAM 314 
 
 Thanks for advice. Is on the recovery. 
 
 August 30. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 3 J 4 
 
 Sent a note as requested. Will send another as soon as possible. 
 
 August 31. FROM JOHN WEBB 3 J 5 
 
 Livingston a poor reach. Cash very scarce. Barrell s note. Seagrove s carpenters. 
 
 September . FROM MR. ANSTERS S 1 ^ 
 
 Will leave city in his company. 
 September . FROM CHARITY SMITH . 3 1 ? 
 
 Cannot go as intended. Will be happy to see him. 
 September. FROM JOHN WEBB 3 1 7 
 
 Family news and business. 
 
 September 4. FROM WILLIAM WICKHAM 3 l8 
 
 Wants depreciation certificates. 
 
XXXIV CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 September 12. FROM JOHN WEBB 3 l8 
 
 Duel with Livingston. Joseph s note. Wishes gun and tent. Seagrove s carpenters. 
 Alsop s demand. 
 
 September 21. FROM JOHN WEBB 3 J 9 
 
 Certificates could have been sold if sent. Seagrove s men. 
 
 October 12. FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL 3 20 
 
 Gratified by his letter. Mr. Freeman. An obliging postmaster. 
 
 October 23. FROM JOHN WEBB 3 21 
 
 Sends money. Dealing with his countrymen. Wants news of Seagrove. Black boy 
 desired. 
 
 October 24. FROM JOSEPH BARRELL 3 2 3 
 
 Sales of wine require explanation. Sends a publication on an act of General Court. 
 
 November 3. FROM JOHN WEBB 3 2 4 
 
 Vessel and hands ready. Will sail on the i$th. 
 
 November 7. FROM JOHN WEBB 3 2 4 
 
 Has not neglected him. Wishes him all happiness. 
 
 November 14. FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL 3 2 5 
 
 Introduces Fitch Hall. 
 
 November 30. FROM LEWIS R. MORRIS 3 26 
 
 Is at Springfield. Brother Jack has sailed. Passage to New Haven. 
 
 December . FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL 3 2 7 
 
 Is really indisposed. Regrets to ladies. 
 
 December 3. FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL 327 
 
 Will see him in the evening. 
 
 1787 
 
 January . FROM JOSEPH WEBB 3 28 
 
 Jack not arrived at his port. The winds. No money among them. Has McEvers 
 assigned? 
 
 January 15. JOSEPH WEBB TO THOMAS LEVERETT 329 
 
 Hides and prices. Butler s marriage. New bell. Accounts. 
 
 January 17. FROM HENRY W. LIVINGSTON 330 
 
 Invitation. 
 
 January 18. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 33 
 
 McEvers debt and assignment. Alsop and King. List of debts at New York. 
 
 February 9. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 332 
 
 Anxious about Jack. New bell from London. Accounts may be sent by Joseph Bull. 
 Medicine for Barrell. 
 
 February n. FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL . . . 333 
 
 Military occupations. What his sister says. His own difficulty. 
 
 February 20. To ELNATHAN HASKELL 334 
 
 Purchases of securities. Haskell s affair and his conduct. 
 
 March . FROM WALTER LIVINGSTON 336 
 
 Dinner on salmon. 
 
 March n. FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL 338 
 
 His hasty letters. A charming girl of Boston. Military movements. 
 
 March 19. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 336 
 
 No word from Jack. Can get no salmon. Passage to Georgia. Jack s temper. Leb 
 anon Pool. 
 April i. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 339 
 
 Fall from a horse. Sends a salmon. Vessels for Savannah and rum and negroes for 
 Jack. 
 
CONTENTS XXXV 
 
 PAGE 
 
 April 4. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 339 
 
 Weight of salmon, cost, and distribution. 
 
 May 26. FROM JOSEPH BARRELL 340 
 
 Settlement with Captain Green. 
 
 May 29. FROM JOHN MEIGS 341 
 
 In need of money. 
 
 June ii. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 341 
 
 The Bull divorce. What news from Jack? London letters. 
 
 June 13. FROM SAMUEL HODGSON 342 
 
 Lottery tickets. 
 
 June 17. FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL 343 
 
 Attentions to Major Erving. Boston gossip and politics. 
 
 July 9. FROM GARY LUDLOW 344 
 
 Bancker bonds in the Crooke estate. 
 
 July 22. FROM JAMES SEAGROVE 344 
 
 Still expects to receive letters from him. 
 
 August 26. FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL 345 
 
 Sends some orations. Should have gone to Lebanon. 
 
 August 31. FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL 436 
 
 Letters are owing. His relations to Fanny. Social news. 
 
 October 9. FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN 349 
 
 Wishes pearl buttons and stockings. 
 
 October 10. FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN 349 
 
 Buckles and buttons. Impost. 
 
 October n. FROM JOSEPH BARRELL 35 
 
 The Columbia medals. 
 
 October 22. FROM SCHENCK AND VAN BUREN 34$ 
 
 Sale of mills. 
 
 November 29. FROM AUGUSTUS VAN CORTLANDT 35 1 
 
 Settlement of Bancker s bond. Marston s intentions. 
 
 . FROM THOMAS SMITH 35 2 
 
 Bond against Richard Bancker. 
 
 December 8. FROM JOSEPH BARRELL 
 
 Account against Green. Public stock. Alliance prize money. The medal. 
 
 December 10. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 354 
 
 His creditors. Messages. 
 
 1788 
 
 January 26. FROM WINTHROP SARGENT 354 
 
 Maps sent. Urges him to look at the western country. 
 
 February 18. RICHARD NEAVE, JR., TO MRS. BANCKER ....... 
 
 Annuity of Mrs. Stables. Balance due Neave s house. Asks for payment. 
 
 February 20. FROM WINTHROP SARGENT 
 
 Will see him on reaching New York. A map for Duer. 
 
 February 28. FROM SCHENCK AND VAN BUREN 
 
 Wishes to close a transaction. New York currency to be used. 
 
 March 6. FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN, JR. . . 
 
 Wishes a sea letter for a ship going to India. Vans associated with 
 
 March 23. FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN, JR. . 
 Letters to Colonel Fleury. 
 
XXXVI CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 April 3. FROM SAMUEL HODGDON 360 
 
 Relates a conversation with Morris on some certificates. Circumstances of the letter. 
 
 April 13. FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN, JR 361 
 
 Vessel has sailed. Will forward letters by another. His sickness. 
 
 April 26. FROM HENRY BARD 361 
 
 Arrival at Savannah. Expects soon to return to New York. 
 
 May ii. FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN, JR 362 
 
 Name of ship altered without his knowledge. Letters may be forwarded. Affidavits 
 will be prepared. Jay s illness. 
 
 May 25. FROM THOMAS LAWRENCE 363 
 
 Asks for a barrel of shad. 
 
 June 17. FROM JOHN COZINE 364 
 
 Debt due by the Bancker estate. 
 
 June 28. FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON 365 
 
 Cannot attend meeting of the Cincinnati. 
 
 July 21. FROM BENJAMIN CROOFOOT 365 
 
 Delay in paying rent. 
 
 August n. FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON 366 
 
 Will send chair by first sloop. 
 
 August 18. FROM GULIAN VERPLANCK 367 
 
 Conveyance of land. 
 
 September 10. FROM WILLIAM WILLEMENT 368 
 
 Wishes to borrow fowling piece. 
 
 October i. FROM JOHN CLARKE 368 
 
 Introducing Mr. Noyes. 
 
 1789 
 
 January n. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 369 
 
 Business matters. 
 
 January 21. FROM ABIGAIL WEBB 370 
 
 Visit from Miss Smith. Joseph gone to New Haven. Where is John? 
 January 26. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 371 
 
 Friends who are not friends. Shall not be wanting. 
 
 February 8. FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH 372 
 
 Letter for Mrs. Greene. Family news. 
 
 February 19. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 372 
 
 Belinda Smith. Matters of accounts. Aid wanted. 
 
 March 9. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 373 
 
 Simpson s affair continued. Curtis sloop at Gilford. Presidential election. Jack s 
 vexation. 
 
 April 29. To DON DIEGO DE GARDOQUI 374 
 
 Arrangements for inauguration of Washington. 
 May 31. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 375 
 
 Anxious to have a letter from him. St. John passed through. Messages to friends. 
 June . FROM JOSEPH WEBB 376 
 
 Must take him into his confidence. Barrell s opinion of his misfortunes. Alsop s 
 
 attachment. Wife in ignorance of situation. Must defeat recovery. The distillery s 
 
 value. Wants his advice. 
 
 June 6. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 378 
 
 Introduces Thomas Chester. Is told of Alsop s intention to arrest. Effect upon his 
 credits. Tries to be the philosopher. 
 
CONTENTS 
 
 XXX VI 1 
 
 June 7. FROM JOHN WEBB .... 
 
 His brother s situation and prospects. Turner s debt. Thomas Chester 
 June 14. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ......... 
 
 Alsop and King s conduct. Has received much kindness. Gratitude of Alsop! 
 June 1 6. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ..... n 
 
 Expects a suspension of action for a few days! Mrs. Webb s behavior on learning o f 
 
 the blow. Cannot be frightened. Distress for bread. Prices. 
 June 18. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ........ g- 
 
 gl my CheSter secures a ^leas 
 
 CheSter secures a ^lease. On going to New York, chair for Mrs. 
 June 21. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ....... < 
 
 explained Awaits his advice J^Ph Bull as messenger. * 
 
 June 26. FROM JOHN WEBB ....... 
 
 voT^ ofh? d h?* g t0 NCW Y0rk< TfUStS A1S P may Se ^ is own interest. Poo r 
 
 June 26. FROM ELIHU CHAUNCEY GOODRICH . 
 
 Packages and letters. 
 
 July 8. JOSEPH WEBB TO JAMES SEAGROVE ........ 
 
 In New York wrestling with his creditors. Difficulties encountered. Wishes he had 
 left the country. Schools at Wethersfield. Jack s difference with Miller. Federal 
 offices. Jonathan Simpson. 
 
 July 29. FROM KILLIAN K. VAN RENSSELAER ...... 3 o 3 
 
 His letter and Goodrich s examination. 
 August 3. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ............. 393 
 
 Simpson trial and needed evidence. No offer to Alsop. 
 
 August 1 1 . FROM JOSEPH WEBB ............ ...... 394 
 
 No further offers of accommodation. Congress and offices. John injured. Messages. 
 August 18. FROM JOSEPH WEBB .................. 396 
 
 Alsop s order and consequences. Is quite resigned. Will not injure his creditors. 
 Simpson as a loyalist. Kindness of friends. 
 
 August 27. FROM JOSEPH WEBB .................. 398 
 
 Trial with Simpson. 
 
 September 3. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ................. 399 
 
 Evidence wanted as to Simpson. Social and family occurrences. 
 September 6. FROM JOHN WEBB ................. 400 
 
 Visits from friends. Goes to Colchester. Requests sporting goods. Note from 
 Joseph. 
 
 September 7. FROM JAMES DUYCKINCK .............. 401 
 
 Settlement of Richard Bancker s account. 
 
 September 10. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ................ 402 
 
 Simpson affair postponed. Other matters. 
 
 September 17. FROM JOHN WEBB ................. 403 
 
 Brother Joseph at Hartford. Wishes him to come. 
 
 September 17. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ................ 404 
 
 Is at Hartford, as comfortable as can be expected. Alsop has done his worst. His 
 family. 
 
 September 29. FROM JOHN WEBB ................. 44 
 
 Articles to be sent. Joseph has taken right step. Situation of family. Fears the 
 winter. 
 
 September 29. To COLONEL FISHBURN ............... 46 
 
 Ignorant on John s debts. Will write upon the matter. Where he may borrow. 
 
XXXV111 CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 October 7. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 407 
 
 Is happy and supplied with what is wanted. What say his friends? 
 
 October 20. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 408 
 
 Wishes for a letter. His quarters are sufficient. Washington s visit to the town. His 
 friends. 
 
 October 25. FROM JOHN WEBB 409 
 
 Am almost discouraged. Alsop and terms. Debts due to him. 
 
 October 29. FROM HENRY IZARD 410 
 
 Ticket to Assembly. 
 December 6. FROM JOHN WEBB 411 
 
 Deane matter closed. Petition to Assembly. His West India vessel. 
 
 December 27. FROM RICHARD PLATT 412 
 
 Barrell s proposals inadmissible. His engagements. Jefferson s certificates. A 
 large loan. 
 
 . TOASTS 413 
 
 1790 
 January 14. FROM RICHARD PLATT 414 
 
 Mission to Philadelphia. 
 
 February 28. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 415 
 
 Sends salmon. Wishes to know Wadsworth s opinion. A carpet wanted. Grand 
 father Webb s condition. 
 
 February 28. FROM JOHN WEBB 417 
 
 Family in health. As to settlements for brother Joseph. The petition to the Assembly. 
 
 March 17. FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH 418 
 
 Drawing of the lottery. 
 
 May 20. FROM MATTHEW MCONNELL 419 
 
 Sends public securities. Bill on New York and manner of payment. 
 
 May 30. FROM MATTHEW MCCONNELL 419 
 
 Certificates to be registered. 
 
 August 9. FROM WILLIAM POPHAM 420 
 
 Order for sale of lands. 
 
 September n. FROM JAMES STEWART 420 
 
 Cask of wine and tool chest. 
 
 October 21. FROM STEPHEN HOGEBOOM 421 
 
 Rise in wheat. Sale of horses. 
 
 November 14. FROM RICHARD PLATT 422 
 
 Prices of securities. Order to purchase. 
 
 . FROM SARAH WICKHAM 423 
 
 Lottery tickets. 
 
 1791 
 
 January 15. FROM PASLEY, BARRY & LITTLE 423 
 
 Pipe of wine. 
 
 March 16. FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON 424 
 
 Political manoeuvres for senatorship. Appointments at Philadelphia. 
 
 March 28. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 425 
 
 No letters from him. Simpson has recovered judgments. News of friends and family. 
 Salmon. 
 
 March 29. FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON 426 
 
 His brother s candidacy. Adgate s chances. Frank s appointment. Bank of United 
 States. 
 
CONTENTS xxxix 
 
 PAGE 
 
 April 18. AGREEMENT .................. 8 
 
 June 12. VISIT TO JOSEPH BARRELL ...... ....... \ 
 
 June 27. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ........ 
 
 Articles sent by water. Affairs remain as they were. His journey home! 
 
 June 30. FROM JOHN WEBB ............. 
 
 His grandfather s condition. Going to West Indies or elsewhere. Administration of 
 
 August i. FROM STEPHEN HOGEBOOM ........ 4 , 2 
 
 State securities and treasurer s certiQcates. 
 
 August 4. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ............ 4 ~- 
 
 His situation. His debts in New York. Commissions. Determined to close his 
 affairs. 
 
 October 18. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ................ 4 -g 
 
 Jane could not come by vessel. Dramas wanted. 
 November 19. FROM JOSEPH WEBB .............. 4 ^ 7 
 
 Letters in Scovel s affair. Suggestion as to slaves. Jack s voyage. Wethersfield news. 
 November 20. FROM WILLIAM S. LIVINGSTON .......... 440 
 
 Treasurer will issue certificates. Recovery of a wench. 
 December 29. FROM PETER VAN SCHAICK 
 
 Sale of mills. Taxes and laws levying them. 
 
 1792 
 
 44I 
 
 January 25. FROM JAMES FAIRLIE ................ 442 
 
 Sends a saddle of venison. 
 February 21. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ................. 442 
 
 Tea and venison. Need for settling his affairs. Articles sent or to be sent. Wishes 
 to see him. 
 
 February 21. To WILLIAM HENRY LUDLOW ............ 444 
 
 Price of house too high. Will rent. 
 
 March 17. FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON ............... 445 
 
 Orders for certificates. Duer s condition. A political scheme. A new road. 
 May 17. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ................... 446 
 
 His journey home. News of friends and acquaintances. Barrell to build. Business 
 prospects. Proposes a visit to Boston. 
 
 June 12. FROM JAMES STUART .................. 449 
 
 Sends some desired articles. The election in Otsego. 
 
 June 21. FROM JAMES STUART .................. 450 
 
 Sends some hams. Political items. 
 
 July 29. FROM GILBERT ASPINWALL ................ 450 
 
 Will send the certificates. Wants a chaise. 
 
 October 25. FROM RICHARD PLATT ................ 451 
 
 Return of Pompey (a dog?). 
 
 1793 
 
 April i. FROM JOSEPH WEBB ................... 452 
 
 Has met the auditors. A book of accounts called for. Family well. Seasoning 
 boards. 
 
 1794 
 
 September 6. FROM BENJAMIN MOORE ............... 453 
 
 Letter on sport. 
 
Xl CONTENTS 
 
 1798 PAGE 
 
 December 24. FROM AMBROSE SPENCER 453 
 
 Conduct of the sheriff. 
 
 1799 
 
 January 22. FROM HEZEKIAH L. HOSMER 454 
 
 Will draw will as desired. President s message. 
 
 February 12. FROM HEZEKIAH L. HOSMER 454 
 
 Increase of navy. No news. 
 
 1800 
 
 February 21. FROM JOHN WEBB 455 
 
 Disappointed in not seeing him. Purchase of oxen. Bull s divorce. 
 
 March 8. FROM DAVID THOMAS 456 
 
 Annexation of Columbia County. State debt. 
 
 March 17. FROM MARY N. WEBB 457 
 
 Messages from a niece. 
 
 October 14. FROM RICHARD PLATT 458 
 
 In hands of bankruptcy proceedings. Dr. Vrooman s prescription. 
 
 November 10. FROM DAVID A. OGDEN 459 
 
 His father s estate. 
 
 1801 
 August 15. FROM L. DE LABIGARRE 459 
 
 Offers a pointer dog. 
 
 August 29. FROM JAMES ALEXANDER 460 
 
 Deed for Duyckinck property. 
 
 1802 
 
 January 12. FROM JAMES A. BAYARD 461 
 
 Vining s property and its condition. Forced sale unwise. 
 February 2. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 462 
 
 Introduces Tryon. Fortune to be avoided. Killian s clerkship. 
 
 . CHURCH SUBSCRIPTION 464 
 
 March 7. FROM JOHN WEBB 465 
 
 An ox to be had. Sale of house. Expects to go to Canaan. 
 
 April ii. FROM DAVID THOMAS 466 
 
 Polly s arrival. Removal of Dr. Malcom. Will be happy to promote his wishes. 
 
 April 24. FROM JAMES STUART 467 
 
 Treaty of Amiens. 
 
 July 19. FROM JAMES WATSON 467 
 
 Vining s indebtedness. 
 
 October 31. FROM JAMES WATSON 468 
 
 Conveyance of lands. 
 
 November 2. FROM WILLIAM CONSTABLE 469 
 
 Social engagement. 
 
 1803 
 
 February 8. FROM DAVID THOMAS 469 
 
 Washington gayeties. 
 
CONTENTS Xli 
 
 PAGE 
 
 February 16. FROM JAMES A. BAYARD 470 
 
 Vining s estate. 
 
 July 12. FROM THOMAS M. MANN 471 
 
 Physician s account. 
 
 1804 
 
 December i. FROM JOHN WEBB 471 
 
 Has given up hope of seeing him. His money troubles. Death of Barrell. 
 
 1806 
 
 May . J. CARVER TO JAMES CLYMENTS 473 
 
 Letter of introduction. 
 
 August g. FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON 473 
 
 A business matter. 
 December 15. FROM DAVID THOMAS 473 
 
 A severe winter. Burr s movements. 
 
 1807 
 
 April 9. FROM JOSEPH WEBB 474 
 
 Family news. Death of Mrs. Huntington. Mrs. Barrell with him. Gossip in general. 
 His journey home. 
 
 November 2. FROM DAVID THOMAS 477 
 
 Difference with Great Britain. Burr and Luther Martin. 
 
 INDEX . 479 
 
FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 RICHARD NEAVE AND SON TO RICHARD BANCKER. 
 Copy Origl T York. LONDON, 3d April, 1764. 
 
 Sir: 
 
 Since ours by Davis we have not received any of your 
 favours. This serves to inclose you Invoice and Bill 
 Lading for sundrys shipped on board the York, Capt. 
 Peter Berton, for New York amounting to, with full In 
 surance, 3073. 8. 4, which we wish safe to your hands and 
 satisfaction. You will by this opportunity hear that an 
 act of Parliament has passed within these few days, laying a 
 duty on many articles imported into N. America and the 
 islands, for taking off about 5 per cent of the Draw-Back 
 usually allowed on Callicoes, and a small part of the Draw- 
 Back on Foreign Linnens, which was out of the power of 
 the Merchts, and Traders of this city to prevent, altho 
 they made a very considerable opposition. We remain 
 very respectfully, Sir, Your most hble servts, 
 
 RICHD. NEAVE & SON. 
 
 Addressed: To Mr. Richard Bancker, Mercht. in New York. 
 
 THOMAS PALMER TO RICHARD BANCKER. 
 
 CORNWALL PRECINCT, 11 April, 1772. 
 
 Sir: 
 
 The snow has but very lately left the face of the ground 
 here. And since, the rivers and swamps has been so very 
 
2 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 full of water, which has prevented my proceeding on your 
 survey. I determine, however, to begin the I5th inst. I 
 have wrote a joint letter to the Proprietors in Genl. con 
 cerning the new proposed settlement, 1 and directed it to 
 Mr. Leffirts, which he will soon show you, to which I 
 refer you for perticulars in that respect. 
 
 I take the liberty to inclose you 60 tickets with a scheme 
 of our Lottery, No. from 1611 to 1640, as also from No. 
 1861 to 1890; and as this Lottery is to support the cause 
 of religion, and as our congregation is under real necessity 
 for raising that sum, it may justly be considered a char- 
 ritable act in those who would be pleased to favour us 
 with their acceptance of a few of them. If you, Sir, would 
 be favourably pleased to mention it to your friends, 
 perhaps you may dispose of this few. Pardon me for 
 giving you this trouble, but as it is but a modest way of 
 begging you will excuse, sir, Your most humble Servant 
 to Command, 
 
 THOS. PALMER. 
 
 Addressed: To Mr. Richard Bancker, Mercht., New York. Per 
 favour Capt. Pease. 
 
 FROM WAT STEWART. 
 
 GIBRALTAR BAY, February loth, 1773. 
 Dear Sam: 
 
 After professing a friendship for each other I should 
 think myself deficient on my part, if I did not the first 
 opportunity acquaint you that the unbounded Ocean 
 rowls betwixt us; that the 3000 Miles do part us, and 
 that two months has passed since I last saw you; yet you 
 
 1 At Kayaderossares. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 3 
 
 are still alive in my remembrance. I m writing this in 
 the Bay formed by the famed rock of Gibraltar, and 
 altho I know myself incapable of describing it in a manner 
 adequate to many descriptions you undoubtedly have 
 seen, shall notwithstanding as I engaged attempt it. 
 Gibraltar is a rocky small Peninsula, whose Istmus is a 
 narrow sandy nook of land about three miles in length, 
 which joins it to the main land, and in part forms the Bay. 
 This Beach is called the Spanish lines, from the Spaniards 
 having three or four batterys on it. The rock is situate 
 in A[n]dalusia, the southernmost province in Spain, and is 
 the southermost extremity of that province. Lying on 
 the very end of Europe s point this rock is one of the 
 pillars of hercules. Mount abile, a Mountain opposite 
 in Africa, is the other. Gibraltar is now called the key of 
 the Straights, therefore has a key for its arms. The Bay 
 at the entrance is about three miles wide, but widens as 
 you enter it. The water where Merchantmen anchor is 
 from three to six fathoms deep within a mile of the Old 
 Mole head, the northernmost landing place, there being 
 but three places where you can land. There s now seven 
 regiments of soldiers and six companys of the royal train 
 of arteliry. I imagine there is about 450 peices of cannon 
 now mounted, and they are building new batterys. Every 
 day 390 men is constantly on guard within call of each 
 other. The garrison is supplied with fresh provisions 
 from Barbary, such as oxen, sheep, fowls and pigeons. 
 Herbage of all kinds is brought from Spain. Their firing 
 is coals, brought some from Spain, but mostly from Eng 
 land. Salt provisions comes from Ireland and America, 
 also butter and cheese [seal] many Jews live there and 
 have a Synagogue; the Spaniards have a church, also the 
 
4 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 English. There s all hands round me engaged in different 
 topics of discourse, laughing and talking sailor like. We ve 
 just done supper, and drinkt a merry glass. You shall 
 have a longer Epistle next time. I am with the greatest 
 respect your Sincere friend, 
 
 WAT STEWART. 
 
 P. S. I had like to forgot the Dutch and Emperor of 
 Morocco is at war. There s three or four Dutch men of 
 war now lying here to convoy merchantmen up further. 
 
 W. S. 
 
 Addressed: To Mr. Samuel Web, in Middletown To the care of Mr. 
 Willm. Stewart. 
 
 FROM CHARLES WHITING. 1 
 
 Dear Sammy: 
 
 Your half mumbled, half retracted promise you made 
 me the morning I parted with you at Weathersfield, of 
 coming down this week, I am not much disappointed to 
 find you dont comply with. However when we catch 
 you here, my boy will have interest for the delay. You 
 must live happily, or at least agreeably, whilst the little 
 circle that surrounds your fireside confers all that exalted 
 joy and pure satisfaction which fine sense, good humor 
 and affability can afford. 
 
 1 Charles Whiting was of Middletown, Conn., and was an adju 
 tant in the 2d Regiment, or Colonel Joseph Spencer s, in 1775. He 
 served as secretary to General Spencer, and left the army in December, 
 1775. In 1776 he reinlisted in Wyllys regiment, became aide de camp 
 to General Spencer, and was commissioned captain, February 14, 
 1777. He died in service July 10, 1779. 
 
SAMUELBLACHLEYWEBB 5 
 
 ^ O Sam! doesnt your heart bleed at the thought of the 
 time when you must leave so sweet a society? But I will 
 not be the author of a suggestion which may occasion you 
 to anticipate the pangs of parting, in themselves, alas! 
 too severe for your feeling heart, but in friendship s name 
 what am I about. 
 
 The wife of our worthy friend and neighbor Mr. Meigs 1 
 ere you receive this will be numbered with the dead. She 
 is now in the apprehension of her friends in the distress 
 ful agonies of death, paying the unavoidable debt of nature, 
 and undergoing the unexceptionable lot of humanity. O, 
 that we who live might lay it to heart, and be suitably 
 affected by such alarming instances of mortality. May 
 not the avocations of business or the allurements of diver 
 sion so engross our attention and time, as to prevent 
 our giving our future concerns an habitual and serious 
 regard. 
 
 I hope in a few days at farthest to see my dear friend, 
 and take a contemplative stroll on the banks of our de 
 lightful river. Remember what I mentioned at parting, 
 etc. Be so good as to pay Bill May, the saddler, who 
 works opposite your brother s store, 5/6 for a bridle I pur 
 chased of him. 
 
 Tell your good brother Mrs. Hosmer 2 takes 15 yards 
 of the green stuff, and with the remainder of that returns 
 the whole of the other piece, which does not suit. Have 
 
 1 Return Jonathan Meigs (1734-1823), who served through the 
 War of Independence, and after the peace removed to Ohio. He 
 passed the last years of his life among the Cherokees, whose agent he 
 was, and died in Georgia. 
 
 2 Wife of Titus Hosmer (1736-1780), who is ranked among the 
 leading men of Connecticut in the Revolution. 
 
6 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 not had an earlier opportunity presented, or should have 
 forwarded them before. 
 
 One request more and then, desire you would speak to 
 Mr. Stanley immediately on the receipt of this, and beg 
 of him to have my surtout finished to send down on Mon 
 day by Richard Hamlin, the bearer of this. If not, bring 
 it me your own dear self. Make my respects acceptable 
 to your brother, sisters and Miss Johnson, and believe me 
 to be, dear Sam, with the firmest affection, Yours, 
 
 CHAS. WHITING. 
 
 P. S. Write me by Mr. Hamlin or post. 
 Saturday I o clock P. M. Oct. 3Oth, 1773. 
 
 Addressed: Mr. Samuel B. Webb, at Wethersfield. Per Mr. 
 Hamlen. 
 
 NOTE. 
 
 We underwritten, De Mauregnault & Cusson Co., 
 partners, acknowledge to be indebted to Mr. Samuel 
 Webb the sum of Twenty Thousand Livres, which said 
 sum we oblige ourselves to pay to his order five weeks 
 after date, in good merchandable Molasses, or good 
 Spanish and Portugal Gold, having the weight as custom 
 ary in this Island, the value received in forty Horses, at 
 five hundred Livres per horse. 
 
 DE MAUREGNAULT & CUSSON. 
 
 ST. NICHOLAS MOLE, nth December, 1773. 
 
SAMUELBLACHLEYWEBB 7 
 
 RICHARD NEAVE AND SON TO RICHARD BANCKER. 
 Copy. Original per Hill. LONDON, 25 th January, 1774. 
 
 Sir: 
 
 Your favor of 6th November per Capt. Lawrence came 
 to hand, with the Deeds which have been executed in 
 Capt. Lawrence s presence by Mrs. Stables and Miss 
 Spyers, &c. which would have been the finishing stroke 
 to them if the executing them by yourself and Mrs. Bancker 
 had been recorded in New York; for which purpose they 
 now go back to Mr. Neave, Junior, by the Minerva, 
 Capt. Hill. The recording them here can be of no use 
 at all. 
 
 My good Sir, I note Bills were not to be had when you 
 wrote by Capt. Lawrence, but you would soon doubtless 
 meet with some. I shall only say I have no doubt of your 
 commisserating our situation and exerting yourself to 
 help us to the utmost of your power, as the only thing 
 that will put us in a way to do business again. I am with 
 great respect, Sir, Your assured Frd Hble Servt., 
 
 RICHD NEAVE & SON. 
 
 Addressed: To Mr. Richard Bancker, Merchant in New York. 
 
 ACT OF ASSEMBLY. 1 
 
 Mar. 1774. 
 
 Upon the memorial of Silas Dean, of Weathersfield, 
 administrator of the goods and estate of Mehitable Dean 
 late of said Weathersfield, deceas d, and of Joseph Webb, 
 
 1 Colonial Records of Connecticut, XIV, 285. 
 
8 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 Sarah Webb, Mehitabel Webb, Samuel Blackesly Webb, 
 John Webb, Abigail Webb and Jesse Dean, all of said 
 Weathersfield, children and heirs of said Mehitabel, 
 which said Samuel is a minor and appears by his guardian 
 Titus Hosmer of Middletown, and said Mehitabel, John, 
 Abigail and Jesse are likewise minors, and appear by 
 their guardian the said Silas Dean, and of Anne Mix, 
 executrix of the last will and testament of Ebenezer Mix 
 late of Hartford, deceas d, and of John Mix and Elisha 
 Mix, children of said Ebenezer and minors, who appear by 
 said Anne their guardian, shewing that said Ebenezer in his 
 life time mortgaged to said Mehitabel two certain pieces of 
 land, one lying in Hartford containing about eighty acres, 
 the other lying in Farmington containing about three 
 hundred acres, by deed dated the 28th day of June, 1762, 
 defeasible on payment of the sum of 415. 10. II, lawful 
 money, on two notes of hand given by said Ebenezer to 
 said Mehitabel, and that there is now due on said mort 
 gage the sum of 571. 2. 8J^, lawful money, which cannot 
 be paid but by sale of said lands; that said Ebenezer in 
 his life time conveyed his equity of redemption by deed 
 to said John Mix and Elisha, and that by reason of the 
 incapacity of said minors the said lands cannot be con 
 veyed to purchasers and praying that said Anna and Silas 
 may be authorized and impowered to make sale of so 
 much of said mortgaged premises as will raise the said 
 sum of 571. 2. 8J/2 with the interest thereof till paid; 
 and the same being paid or secured to said Silas as ad 
 ministrator of said Mehitabel Dean, for the use of said 
 children and heirs of said Mehitabel, that thereupon the 
 said Silas be enabled to release the right of said minor 
 heirs of said Mehitabel to said John and Elisha etc., as 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 9 
 
 per memorial on file: Resolved by this Assembly, that the 
 said Silas and Anne have liberty and authority, and 
 liberty and authority is hereby granted to said Silas and 
 Anne, to sell so much of said mortgaged premises as will 
 raise the sum of 571. 2. 8j/ with the interest thereof 
 till paid and incident charges of sale, and to give a deed 
 or deeds accordingly, and that the monies arising on said 
 sale or sales being paid or secured to be paid to said Silas 
 as administrator of said Mehitabel Dean and that the 
 said Silas shall have liberty and authority by his deed of 
 release to convey to the said John Mix and Elisha Mix all 
 the residue of the title of said minor children of said 
 Mehitabel Dean to said mortgaged premises, and that all 
 deeds made pursuant to and by virtue of this act shall be 
 good and effectual in law for the sure holding of the estates 
 therein conveyed. 
 
 FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. 
 
 MOLE ST. NICHOLAS, July ist, 1774. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Your affairs here do not wear so favorable an aspect as 
 I could wish. Ingan is dead, and his estate will not pay 
 all his debts. Ducass is mate of the Sloop Guarda-Cost, 
 and has promised to pay his note soon. Jaque Chenill 
 has had his vessel run away with, but has (Mauregnault 
 says) lately wrote him from the Cape that he will soon be 
 here and pay his in part. Pittitus is in the Bite expected 
 here soon. If he comes shall get his. Ravison is a good 
 note; shall send to him at Port au Paix, if he dont come 
 here soon. Mauregnault stands his ground on the old 
 
IO FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 spot, but does less business, yet I believe with more 
 profit. 1 I am, dear sir, your very humble servant, 
 
 JERE WADSWORTH. 
 
 [For prices current, turn over.] 
 
 Pork, beef, tallow, lard, 4007 
 
 Staves long, 1307 to 220 / short ioo/ 
 
 Per M-- hoops i8o/ to 1907 bords 1507 to i8o/ 
 
 Molasses 23 sols, coffee 13 @ 15, indico, n/ to n/6 
 
 Sugar 327 to 337 
 
 Addressed: Mr. Samuel B. Webb, Merchant, Wethersfield, Con 
 necticut. Sent per Capt. Z. Stocking. 
 
 SILAS DEANE TO WILLIAM COOPER. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, July 4th, 1774. 
 Sir: 
 
 Yours of the 28th ultimo inclosing the proceedings of 
 the Town of Boston I received, since which have not seen 
 any of our Committee; 2 consequently have nothing to 
 write you from them. They are to meet the I3th instant 
 at New London, to appoint Deputies to attend the general 
 Congress, agreeable to the direction given them by the 
 Honorable House of Representatives for this Colony at 
 
 1 Webb had visited Mole St. Nicholas in the January previous, 
 and Wadsworth appears to have joined him there. See Correspondence 
 and Journals of Samuel Blachley Webb, I, 17. In subsequent notes 
 this work will be referred to as Webb, Correspondence and Journals. 
 
 2 The Committee of Correspondence in Connecticut. The names of 
 the members are given in Webb, Correspondence and Journals, I, 10 n, 
 and in the same volume will be found the extremely valuable letters 
 received in the year 1774. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB II 
 
 their last session. 1 The designs of the Ministry doubtless 
 are to drive the inhabitants of your town and province to 
 the dreadful alternative of resisting force with force, or 
 of absolute submission to arbitrary and even military 
 Government. There is a report that your Governor 2 
 has declared his design of being present and active at the 
 Congress. His late Proclamation 3 gives probability to 
 such design, which if he in earnest means to pursue, I 
 think it ought to be known previous to the meeting of the 
 Congress, that they who are deputed may know what to 
 depend on at their meeting. There is the greatest possible 
 unanimity in this Colony and I think the similarity of 
 sentiment and apprehension throughout this Continent 
 at this time, as it exceeds even what might have been 
 expected, so it is a most encouraging omen for good. These 
 Colonies in their infancy were enabled to struggle through 
 and overcome difficulties and opposition, everything con 
 sidered, great as those of the present day, solely under 
 Providence on their confederating together, and acting 
 as one body with one Common Interest in View, and with 
 that Unanimity and firmness which is ever the Result of 
 true Patriotic Virtue. The same causes will doubtless 
 have the same effect, and nothing will or can possibly 
 prevent if we have not degenerated from the Virtue of our 
 Ancestors. I am with esteem, Sir, your Most Humb Servt. 
 For Wm. Cooper, Esq. 4 
 
 1 See Journals of the Continental Congress (Ford), I, 17, 1 8. 
 
 2 General Thomas Gage was governor of Massachusetts at this time. 
 
 3 Gage s proclamation, issued at Salem, June 29. The text is in 
 Proc. Mass. Hist. Soc., XII, 47. 
 
 4 The letter is in the writing of Webb. Cooper (1720-1809), son of 
 the Rev. William Cooper, served as Town Clerk of Boston for nearly 
 half a century. 
 
12 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 AGREEMENT FOR PASSAGE. 
 
 Articles of Agreement made, indented and concluded on 
 this [ 1 ] Day of December, in the Fifteenth year of the 
 Reign of our Sovereign Lord George the Third, by the 
 Grace of God King of Great Britain, &c., &c., and in the 
 year One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy Four, 
 Between James Ackland, Commander of the ship York, 
 of the one part, and Ann Farteshew of the other part as 
 follows: and first he the said James Ackland doth hereby 
 covenant, and promise, and agree, and with the said Ann 
 Farteshew, to carry her in his said ship to New York (the 
 risk of the Sea excepted), and to provide her with good 
 wholesome Meat, Drink, and Bedding during the said 
 voyage, and untill she shall arrive at New York aforesaid; 
 she the said Ann Farteshew paying unto him, the said 
 James Ackland, at and after the rate of Twelve Pounds 
 Twelve shillings sterling for her passage, and that the 
 said payment shall be made by her, the said Ann Farte 
 shew, within Ten days after her arrival at New York 
 aforesaid. But if default of payment by her, the said 
 Ann Farteshew, within the limited time aforesaid; she, 
 the said Ann Farteshew, doth hereby authorize and im- 
 power him, the said James Ackland, or his Assigns, to 
 bind her to such a Master in any of His Majesty s Prov 
 inces in North America, as he or they shall chuse for the 
 term of four years, to be computed from her arrival at 
 New York aforesaid; and that she will at the cost of him, 
 the said James Ackland, or his Assigns, sign any neces 
 sary Indenture for that purpose; and that during the 
 Term of her Servitude as aforesaid, she will truly serve 
 
 1 Blank. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 13 
 
 her said Master and act in all respects as a faithfull Ser 
 vant. Provided always, that if she shall pay unto him 
 the said James Ackland, or his Assigns, the sum of Twelve 
 Pounds Twelve shillings sterling within Ten days after 
 her arrival at New York as aforesaid, that immediately 
 from and after such payment she shall be free as if the 
 said Clause concerning the Servitude for four years had 
 never been made. And for the true performance of the 
 premises Each party binds himself in the sum of Thirty 
 Pounds sterling of lawfull money of Great Britain, to be 
 payed by the party not performing. 
 
 Signed in the Presence of JAMES ACKLAND. 
 
 JOHN RUSSELL. 
 
 FROM JOHN SIMPSON. l 
 
 Wednesday, After Dinner, 29 Mar. 75. 
 
 By the time which this is dated you may conclude, my 
 Dear Brother, that I am rather unfitt for writing letters; 
 but as nothing would excuse me from it when I have met 
 with such friendly civilities from you, I will go on to an 
 swer your letter, or rather to give you my opinion upon 
 the subject you wrote on. To proceed then, I think the 
 conduct of Sfilas] D[eane] very extraordinary and deroga 
 tory to the character he has allways enjoyed. I cannot 
 conceive of any good reason for His behaviour, and more 
 especially, after such a possitive promise of seeing you 
 the next day for the purpose of settling the affair, to go of 
 
 1 Married Webb s sister, Sarah. See references to him in Webb, 
 Correspondence and Journals, index; also Sabine, Loyalists of the 
 American Revolution, II, 303. 
 
14 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 and leave you without the least reason therefor seems to 
 me to be very wrong and ought not to be readily excused. 
 I think you should press pretty hard for a settlement, and 
 in the mean time write Dr. Johnson * to hold himself en 
 gaged for us in case of necessity, as I fear His Mr. D[eane] s 
 fear of your having already done it was to sound you, that 
 in case it was not so that he might himself engage those 
 attorneys who have the most influence, and by his pre 
 tended fear keep you in a state of supposed security, and 
 in the meantime undermine till the House fall. Your 
 affairs are more particularly engaged here, therefore I 
 expect more from you than Jo: 
 
 I beg you will by the return of the Post send me an 
 answer what you will do respecting my goods; wether 
 you determine to spend the summer at home and take em 
 to sell for me on commission, or what else, as it s of con 
 sequence for me to know very soon lest we be overtaken 
 in the fit of drowseyness. Inform me likewise what situa 
 tion you think best and the commission. Wethersfield 
 appears to me best, as it is nearer the centre. 2 
 
 Having nothing further to add I must conclude, and 
 that sincerely I am Yr Affec. Bro., 
 
 JOHN SIMPSON. 
 
 P. S. I will send you the pouch if I can get the Post 
 to take it. 
 
 1 William Samuel Johnson (1727-1819), of Stratford, long the 
 leading lawyer in Connecticut. Before the peace he became president 
 of Columbia College, New York, but ill health compelled him to resign 
 that office in 1800. His letters to the governors of Connecticut are 
 printed in 5 Mass. Hist. Collections, IX, 213. 
 
 2 Simpson had visited the place only a week before. Webb, Corre 
 spondence and Journals, I, 51, where one of his letters is reproduced. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 15 
 
 FROM JOHN SIMPSON. 
 
 Dear Bro: Wednesday Evening, 5 April, 75. 
 
 As the hour is late I must be very brief. To begin then 
 I was much disappointed in not receiving an answer from 
 you respecting my goods, more particularly as the posts 
 are shortly to be shutt up, so that there will be no such 
 thing as transporting things from one colony to another. 1 
 However I have ventured to order them to your Brother, 
 and if you incline to take the care of em and sell them for 
 me, I beg you will let me know it and the commission you 
 expect; for [if] it is inconvenient to you to take charge of 
 em, I will send my Clerk up with them. I would prefer 
 your care of them to his, and if for your interest hope 
 you will stay at home this ensuing summer. Dont fail of 
 answering me by the return of the Post in the affirmative 
 or negative, that I may know what to do. I congratu 
 late you on the more agreeable apearance of the Estate 
 affairs, and hope you will be able to settle them amicably. 
 Adieu, I will be glad to see you whenever convenient to 
 come to town. Yr Afft. Br., 
 
 JOHN SIMPSON. 
 
 FROM JOHN SIMPSON. 
 
 My Dear Friend: BosTON " A P ri1 
 
 Your lettsrs was handed to me this forenoon by the 
 Post; some part of the contents is correspondent with 
 
 1 Continental posts were not provided for until July 26, when 
 Benjamin Frr.nklin, because of his knowledge and experience gained 
 in the royal pO3t service, was chosen postmaster general for the United 
 Colonies. 
 
l6 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 my expectations, but yet am sorry in not being disap 
 pointed--! mean the affair with Mr. Deane as it 
 would be much more agreeable to have settled with him 
 in an amicable way than by law. However the latter is 
 preferable to the loss of what is our right, which as the 
 Americans in general so ought individuals to stand up 
 for; and unless he will make such proposals as are equitable 
 I think we ought to take such methods as will oblidge him 
 to do justice to us. I am glad you follow it so close, and 
 I hope by your and Jose assiduity to have things upon 
 an agreeable footing. Now is the time to strike while the 
 iron is hot, for [if] it is again neglected I fear nothing but 
 his death will effect a settlement, which I think is as 
 necessary now as it will be then. I wish you will trans 
 cribe from his Book the amount of the Notes and Book 
 debts due to and from your father, and the amount of 
 the Real and Personal Estate as per appraisement. Like 
 wise a copy of the accounts he shewed me just after my 
 marriage. I cannot conceive of his being able with any 
 justness to reduce the division from 2OOo to 6oo each. 
 I would not willingly give him his thirds of the Estate 
 until I saw how he stated the account. If he expects a 
 third of the estate the least he can do is to allow Interest 
 for all the moneys and effects he has received since the 
 death of our father. He frequently said it was in our 
 power to ruin him if we pleased. I wish that was explained, 
 for I dont know how. If he has acted an honest part, nay, 
 whether he has or not, I think we ought to do justice to 
 ourselves. It is a duty incumbent on me I will most cer 
 tainly see to, for I plainly perceive that a delicacy of 
 behaviour has no effect on him. Therefore I approve of 
 your writing Doctor Johnson. Furthermore I think it 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB IJ 
 
 would be very imprudent to suspend the settlement longer 
 than next Court, when I believe it will be the most advisable 
 thing to thro in a partition to the Assembly, praying 
 leave to appoint proper persons to adjust said affairs, the 
 choice of whom I leave to yourself and Jose, and will 
 abide by their decision if agreeable to you two. 1 Your 
 Brother having a great deal of business in the settlement 
 of his own particular affairs, and you have leisure, there 
 fore you ought to be very industryous, as all depends upon 
 application and attention. Dont be backward in pushing 
 matters, as you know the person I am speaking of re 
 quires it. I am glad you have near closed the Division 
 of Real Estate, and wish a settlement of the whole might 
 as easily be effected. 
 
 As to my own particular affairs concerning goods must 
 only say that I would have you open them and sell them 
 upon as good terms as possible, by wholesale and for cash 
 only, unless to Jo, etc. 
 
 In respect to spending the summer with you I dont 
 think it eligible, and believe we shall be as easy here as 
 with you. 2 However thank you for your good wishes. 
 Adieu. That all our disputes with the mother [country] 
 may be dissipated (as a cloud by the sun) is the sincere 
 wish of your Afft Brother, JOHN SIMPSON. 
 
 1 No such petition appears to have been presented to the Assembly. 
 Probably the troublous conditions prevented. Joseph Webb, in the 
 month of May, was seeking to release one of his vessels, laden with 
 pork for the West Indies (Colonial Records of Connecticut, XIV, 439), 
 and the events occurring in Massachusetts were attacting the atten 
 tion of the colonies. 
 
 2 About a month later he was writing of his intention of going to 
 Quebec, of his low stock of money and provisions, and his wish for 
 his share of the stock naming one thousand pounds as his idea of it. 
 
l8 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 FROM JOHN SIMPSON. 
 
 BOSTON, 8 June, 1775. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I this day received a letter from you dated Charlestown, 
 6 April, which I suppose you meant the 6 of this month. 1 
 Presuming upon which I ve thot proper now to write you, 
 to signify my desire of seeing you, which I will do at the 
 Lines on the Neck, at any hour and day you will please 
 to appoint, when I can more freely converse with you 
 than by letter. 
 
 I received only one from Jose dated 26 May urging me 
 to leave town. Your Sister [Sarah] has been very unwell, 
 but is now getting better, and I believe will accompany 
 [me] to the Lines, if you will meet me there. I beg you 
 will write an answer as soon as possible that I may 
 know what steps to take. I am your affectionate 
 
 JOHN SIMPSON. 
 
 Addressed: To Mr. Samuel B. Webb at Bradish s Tavern, 2 in 
 Cambridge. 
 
 FROM JOHN SIMPSON. 
 Dear Sam . BOSTON, 13 September, 1775. 
 
 Captain Fenwick 3 of the Train handed me your letter 
 of the 28th ultimo, with a handkerchief of Peaches, which 
 
 1 On May I Webb was commissioned a lieutenant in Captain 
 John Chester s company (the 9th), in Colonel Spencer s, or the 2d 
 Regiment. 
 
 2 The sign of the Blue Anchor, kept by Ebenezer Bradish. It stood 
 on Brighton Street, about midway between Harvard Square and 
 Mount Auburn Street. A part of the tavern remained until after 1880. 
 
 3 Captain Robert Fenwick, of the Royal Artillery. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 19 
 
 have your sister s and my thanks. We are much obliged 
 for your earnest solicitations for our welfare which con 
 vinces us of your affection. It would make us happy to 
 meet you but that is impossible unless we take up our 
 residence at Wethersfield, which I have thoughts of, as I 
 have entirely set aside my intention of settling in Canada, 
 the accounts from thence being unfavorable to business, 
 the only inducement I had for thinking of going there; 
 but before I determine on anything I must beg you to 
 answer me a few questions. Are you sure I should be free 
 from all kinds of insults? This question is not that I fear 
 it but through my connections, being sensible I have not 
 been active on either side. You mention that all my 
 customers say they will settle with me as fast as possible 
 if I will go into the country. Do you speak this as what 
 comes from them, or as your own sentiments only? Do 
 the Common people pay their debts in the money emitted 
 by the Continental Congress ? What interest does it bear 
 and when redeemable ? Does the above mentioned money 
 pass current for everything? Can you procure for me on 
 hire a coach for my family, and wagons for my furniture 
 to Wethersfield ? As my tables and chairs are too good to 
 cart 1 20 miles, how shall I manage for those things there? 
 Can I hire a house furnished, or can I board my family 
 conveniently? What house can I have or where can I 
 board? I should not choose to incommode your brother, 
 whose goodness will prompt him to urge our living with 
 him. 
 
 If you think there is any prospect of an accommoda 
 tion shortly I had rather stay than remove anywhere, as 
 I have considerable interest here which must be reduced 
 by my leaving it, and what was a great reason for my in- 
 
2O FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 tending to go to Quebec. I could remove some part of it 
 there with ease by water carriage. 
 
 Mr. Deane desired me in his note to confer with you 
 before he left this part of the country upon his conversa 
 tion with you. Pray inform me of the particulars. 
 
 Do you know whether Jos: [Webb] has sent me the 
 money as directed? I have some orphan cousins here, 
 and I want to pay them. I wish you would write him 
 upon the subject. 
 
 When did you hear from our friends, and are they well? 
 Is there any letters for me in the office at Cambridge? 
 If there is, I beg you will forward on to me, as they may 
 be of some consequence. 
 
 A particular answer to the above queries will oblige me 
 and facilitate my journey into the country. 
 
 Sally is well, and desires to be affectionately remem 
 bered to you and all friends at Wethersfield. Write me 
 as soon as possible in answer to this, as the cold is 
 advancing, before which I must determine on some 
 thing. 
 
 Through my Uncle at Halifax I have fared pretty well 
 in respect to provisions. I had fresh beef five days last 
 week at my own house, and have now by me a pig and 
 five sheep, so that till I take my departure I shall do very 
 well. 
 
 Adieu. r , T . 
 
 [Unsigned.] 
 
 P. S. Although I ask if you can procure me a coach 
 and wagon, I don t mean to remove from hence till I hear 
 from Great Britain, in consequence of the battle on Breed s 
 Hill; for as I have a great deal of interest here, I should 
 prefer staying, if there was any prospect of an accommoda- 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 21 
 
 tion, and which I doubt not my friends everywhere must 
 approve of. As opportunities are more frequent with 
 you than me to send letters to Connecticut, I must beg 
 you to forward the inclosed to Joe. 
 
 Pray dont omit sending in my letters. I know of 
 there being some in the office for me and wish to see the 
 contents. 
 
 Addressed: To Mr. Samuel B. Webb, at Cambridge. To D. 
 Roberts care, who is desired to forward or deliver it as soon as 
 possible. 
 
 Endorsed: This letter must be sent back soon for several Reasons. 
 
 S. B. W. 
 
 FROM JOHN SIMPSON. 
 
 BOSTON, 21 October, 1775. 
 Dear Sam: 
 
 I this day received yours of 17 instant, and observe that 
 you had answered my two former letters some time ago 
 and sent it in Friday; but as I have never received it, I 
 cannot know what you have said to make you so sanguine 
 in your expectations of seeing me and family out so soon 
 as a few days. I would be glad you will inform me of the 
 particulars of it, as it is uncertain and almost impossible 
 I should now receive the letter you refer to, and at the 
 same time send me the Letter you mention having received 
 from Jo. 
 
 We enjoy health, though not an undisturbed mind when 
 we think what must be the consequence of the present 
 unhappy contest. 
 
 If it is possible for you to send anything fresh to us, it 
 would be very acceptable. Perhaps if you ask leave of 
 
22 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 your General 1 he would consent to your sending by the 
 boat that goes between this town and Chelsea some few 
 things, as it would be for the use of us only, who must live 
 upon salt meat the whole winter, it being impossible for 
 some reasons for us to leave town. Everything fresh is 
 very dear, besides which, as I have not received anything 
 from my customers since the unhappy 19 of April, my 
 purse is almost drained. 
 
 I wish you would spare a few moments to write Mr. 
 D[eane] about our matters, as I have now no dependance 
 
 but upon him for my future support. 
 
 [Unsigned.] 
 
 Addressed: To Lieut. Saml. B. Webb, Aid de Camp to Gen l Put 
 nam, at Cambridge. 
 
 FROM JOHN NUTTER AND OTHERS. 
 
 We the subscribers, James McDonald, John Nutter 
 and Joseph Waterman, of Majr. [John] Durkee s Com 
 pany, and Joel White, of Capt. [Ephraim] Manning s 
 Company, all in Genl. Putnam s Regiment, do severally 
 acknowledge to have received 20 / lawful money each of 
 Majr. General Israel Putnam, Esqr., in full for all our 
 Right Title and Demand in and to a certain large Bay 
 coloured Horse taken by us from the Regular Troops on 
 Charlestown Neck, and which horse we have sold to 
 General Putnam this 22d Day of November A. D. 1775 
 as Witness our Hands, 
 
 JOHN NUTTER. 
 Witnesses JOEL WHITE. 
 
 [none] JAMES McDoNALD. 
 
 1 Israel Putnam. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 23 
 
 SAMUEL STRINGER 1 TO WALTER V. WEMPLE. 
 
 Dear Vroman, ALBANY > 2I March I776 
 
 I have wrote you several letters since I had any from 
 you, which I cannot account for. 
 
 General Washington has played the devil at Boston. 
 General How has asked leave to go away with his troops, 
 which has been laughed at. We hope shortly to send you 
 better accounts of them. Our army has been besieging 
 the town ever since the 2nd instant. 
 
 I know not yet where I am to be destined, nor what 
 provision is to be made for the hospital, and when we are 
 to take the field it will be all to be done. We are all well, 
 and desire to be remembered to you. 
 
 I am your sincere friend etc., 
 
 SAM. STRINGER. 
 
 P. S. Let McCrea know I have his coat from the 
 tailor he wrote for. 
 
 Addressed: To Walter V: Wemple, Surgeon in the General Hos 
 pital, Canada. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 My Dear Brother: WETHERSFIELD, October 14^, 1776. 
 
 Yours of this morning I received, and in answer say 
 you had best send your cloth to me. I ll do all in my 
 
 1 Samuel Stringer (1734-1817) had served in the medical depart 
 ment in Shirley s expedition against the French, and also in the cam 
 paign of 1758. He was at this time director of the hospital and chief 
 physician and surgeon for the army in the Northern Department. 
 Later he was dismissed from the service, though defended by General 
 Schuyler. Probably the dislike of Schuyler held by many was respon 
 sible for this action. 
 
24 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 power to suit you as to the making, etc. I have engaged 
 some cloth for Col. Carey. 1 Poor Stanley, our tailor, has 
 been ill, or would had it made before now; but in a few 
 days it is likely I can send it. The post has been in an un 
 settled state, which has made conveyance to and from 
 the Army quite irregular. I [was] much put out that I 
 had no letter in answer to the one wrote you in behalf of 
 Mr. Jauncy. 2 Pray write me a long circumstantial letter. 
 I cant say but I feel much for Mr. Alexander Wallace 3 
 and Mr. Sherbrook, 4 two gentlemen of our particular 
 acquaintance, neither of them gentlemen that would do 
 us the least harm, or the Cause of America, was they at 
 home taking care of their property. Mr. Sherbrook has 
 been with me these some days. I feel much for him; his 
 anxiety about his Lady and a number of papers he has 
 secreted, is a very serious affair with him. Mr. Wallace 
 has a large family. Add to this when they was sent away, 
 they was promised a speedy releasement, even from 
 General Washington-- they willing to do anything con 
 sistent with strict honor. I believe they are very willing 
 to promise most solemnly not to take up arms on either 
 side. I wish you would do these gentlemen all the service 
 
 r Richard Gary, of Washington s military family. 
 
 2 Probably James Jauncey of New York, who with his wife and son 
 were sent as prisoners to Middletown, Connecticut. At first inclined 
 to take the Whig side, he remained loyal to the King, and suffered in 
 person and in property. He went to England. 
 
 3 A merchant of New York, and with Jay, a member of the Com 
 mittee of Correspondence. Arrested, he was allowed to go to Middle- 
 town on parole, and later, to England. He died at Waterford, Ireland, 
 in 1810. In 1768 he was associated with his brother, Hugh, and had 
 his counting house in Burnet s Street. 
 
 4 Miles Sherbrooke, who had long and close relation with the Webbs. 
 The firm, Perry, Hayes & Sherbrooke, was on Bayard Street. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 25 
 
 in your power. I am told one Mr. Hamlinton 1 and Mr. 
 Youngs 2 that was taken up with these gentlemen, are 
 released. If this is the case they have reason to expect a 
 releasement soon. Indeed I can t think it will be of the 
 least benefit in the world to keep em here. Let me hear 
 from you by Saturday night, and should be glad of an 
 answer as to the letter wrote for Mr. Jauncy. 
 
 I have the disagreeable news to tell you that Barny s 3 
 brig is taken. The people took to their boats and are ar 
 rived home. At the same time I have the pleasure to tell 
 you that my Brig 4 is arrived at Philadelphia with the 
 cargoes for both vessels, as far as the Continent as con 
 cerned. Tomorrow I shall write you by Mr. Simeon 
 Deane. 5 Forget not these two gentlemen who are so anx 
 ious to return, and not to harm the country. 
 
 I am, dear Sammy, Your most affectionate brother, 
 
 JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 1 Captain Archibald Hamilton, to whom permission was first given 
 to reside at New Brunswick, and afterwards to return to his home. 
 Journals of the Continental Congress (Ford), V, 671, 809. His examina 
 tion is in the New York Calendar of Historical Manuscripts relating to 
 the War of the Revolution, I, 360. 
 
 2 Isaac, Israel or Joseph Youngs. 
 
 3 The brig was in all likelihood the property of or was commanded 
 by Barnabas Deane. 
 
 4 Joseph Webb s schooner, the Fox, commanded by James Mitchell, 
 had sailed for the West Indies in April, but on his own venture. As 
 trading vessels were tempted to engage in the importation of war sup 
 plies, the Fox may have been upon such a voyage. 
 
 6 Brother of Silas Deane, 
 
26 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. 
 
 NORTH CASTLE, Nov. nth, 1776. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I received yours of yesterday. You may depend on my 
 attending to your affairs, and I will write you as soon as I 
 am well informed of their situation. I believe they are 
 all safe. 
 
 I shall be much obliged to you to attend to the inclosed 
 advertisement, as you will see by it I have lost my horse, 
 and it will be a great disappointment, and a loss that I 
 am not willing to put up with, as I have lately met with 
 several others. Perhaps the horse may be bro t to Head 
 Quarters for sale, as he is so good a one. 
 
 I am very unwell with a pain in my head and breast, 
 a spitting of blood, &c. I expect to go home in two days, 
 and if you have any commands prepare them. I must 
 return as soon as I have put my affairs in order there, 
 but not to stay. I am determined not to be in a situation 
 so very disagreeable as I have been lately. I wish you 
 would return my letter from Tracy, and let me know 
 what His Excellency s opinion of Genl. Bell s conduct is. 
 I wish to have it remembered that I sent that letter to 
 Head Quarters, and for the reason that much loss has 
 happened and great waste has been made of the stores 
 since I have been moving them; and in some future time 
 when these losses appear it may be forgot that those 
 people whose duty it was to have guarded the magazines 
 neglected them, to say no worse of it, and the blame may 
 ly at my door, and it is not impossible but I may loose my 
 character if not my estate. If His Excellency was to 
 write something on this matter, setting forth the circum- 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 27 
 
 stances attending th^moving the stores and the difficul 
 ties and losses ne^fcsarily attending such a sudden move 
 ment, I think it would secure me from future blame or 
 loss. I do not want to make any other use of it but to 
 secure me if I am called, and never will show it unless I 
 am obliged to for my own safety; and this I will not ex 
 pect if the General has the least doubt about the pro 
 priety of it, and you will mention it in your own time and 
 way, but the sooner the better for me. At any rate write 
 me, tell me the news, &c. Give my compliments to Col. 
 Gary, and tell him the Girl has got a pain in her head, 
 and I am afraid she is pineing after him. He is a sad Dog, 
 a very sad Dog, to offer to touch any of the Commissary 
 stores. Girls come within the article of stores, especially 
 when they are in his hired house. I have courted her for 
 him ever since he went away. I dont know but she 
 will send him word to come back, but she has not 
 promised me to do so yet. When she does I will send him 
 word. 
 
 If you dont go from Peeks Kill soon I shall see you, as 
 I must see Gen. Mifflin before I go to Connect. I am, 
 Dear Sir, Your most obdt Servt., 
 
 JERE WADSWORTH. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Sam. B. Webb, Aid de Camp to His Excelly. Gen. 
 Washington, Peeks Kill. 
 
 FROM THOMAS MIFFLIN. 
 
 Colonel Webb has his Excellency s General Washing 
 ton s Orders to appropriate so much of the Scarlet Cloath- 
 ing (taken from the Enemy at sea) as will be sufficient to 
 
28 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 cloath One Regiment. The said Cloathing to be set 
 apart for his Regiment. 
 
 THOMAS MIFFLIN, 
 Q. M. G. 
 
 [MORRISTOWN,] January 18, 1777. 
 
 FROM THOMAS MuMFORD. 1 
 
 GROTON, 4th March, 1777. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Captain Mumford informs me he was told by Captain 
 Saltonstall, 2 you want some active young gentlemen for 
 subaltern officers in your Regiment. I have a desire to 
 give every aid and assistance in my power in the present 
 contest. My son 3 the (bearer of this) waits on you to 
 offer himself for what you think him capable to undertake. 
 He is young, and not the best constitution; however he 
 inherits his Father and Mother s sentiments to give every 
 aid and assistance in his power. Money is not our ruling 
 passion at this day. My son, if you find him worthy, 
 shall have leave to draw on me while in the service for 
 such sums as he may need. I could wish he was a few 
 years older, but with your good advice and direction I 
 hope he may be of some service in the General Cause. I 
 hope and depend, if you employ him, you will take a 
 fatherly care of him. I will thank you to tell him what 
 method he shall pursue before he marches, to inform him- 
 
 1 A merchant at Groton, Connecticut, and one of eleven men who 
 in April, 1775, conceived the plan of an attack on Ticonderoga. 
 
 2 Dudley or Nathaniel Saltonstall. 
 
 3 Giles Mumford. On January 1, 1777, he was commissioned a lieu 
 tenant in Webb s regiment, and was captured by the British with his 
 commander. He resigned from the service May 27, 1779. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 2Q 
 
 self of his duty when in service. My best wishes attend 
 you and the American cause, and believe me, Very 
 sincerely, Dear Sir, Your real and affectionate, 
 
 THOMAS MUNFORD. 
 
 Addressed: To Colo. Samuel B. Webb, Esq., in Weathersfield. 
 Per Mr. Giles Mumford. 
 
 JAMES BOWDOIN TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. 1 
 
 BOSTON, April 21, 1777. 
 
 (Duplicate) 
 Sir: 
 
 Your Excellency, I believe, is not unacquainted with the 
 great loss sustained by Mr. Temple in the damage done 
 to his farm by the American army. I have since seen the 
 farm, and though I had had an exaggerated account, as 
 I then thought it must be, of that damage, yet when I 
 beheld it, it greatly exceeded my apprehension of it. I 
 have seen his account against the United States for the 
 damage, and he assures me he has made it out conscien 
 tiously; deviating from truth in no other respect than 
 setting the articles at a less rate than they were bona fide 
 worth; and that the sum of his account will be inade 
 quate to the re-establishing his farm in the same good 
 state in which it was in March, 1775. Mr. Temple in 
 tends his account should be laid before your Excellency, 
 and would be much [ ] to you for recommending it 
 
 to the speedy consideration of General Mifflin, the Quarter 
 
 1 A holograph. Sir John Temple, whose somewhat troubled experi 
 ences may be read in the Bow (loin-Temple Papers, printed by the 
 Mass. Historical Society (Collections, Ser. 6, IX and Ser. 7, VI). Gov 
 ernor Bowdoin was his father-in-law. 
 
3O FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 Master General. Justice and a due regard for an honest 
 man induce me to join with him in asking this favor. 
 
 Wishing your Excellency the success your character 
 and the common cause merit, I have the honor to be with 
 the greatest esteem, Sir, Your Excellency s most obedient 
 humble servant, 
 
 JAMES BOWDOIN. 
 
 ENLISTMENT RECEIPT. 
 
 Received i6th June, 1777 of Edward Bulkley, Thirty- 
 six pounds sterling money, for which sum I have enlisted 
 myself a soldier to serve during the war in Col. Webb s 
 battalion. 
 
 PRINTIS STORES. 1 
 36. o Copy 
 
 FROM ZABDIEL ROGERS. 
 
 NORWICH, 28th June, 1777. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Mr. Andrew Huntington 2 neglected calling on me for 
 the articles you desired to be forwarded. But accidentally 
 I saw the team with the tents passing by, so have sent 
 them by Mr. Peck, the bearer, who was with the team: 
 
 The Articles are 3^ yds White Drilling, 2 Table Cloths, 
 I pr. White Silk Hose, 2 pr. Fine Thread do., 2 fine Linnen 
 
 1 This name is not found on any muster roll printed in the Record of 
 Connecticut Men, 17751783; but he drew a pension for service in the 
 war, and then resided in New York. 
 
 2 He was in the town of Preston, and on the Lexington alarm turned 
 out for service during three days. A brother of Jedidiah Huntington, 
 he served as a commissary of brigade. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 3! 
 
 Handkerchiefs, I Ib. Hyson Tea. 2^ yds. White Broad 
 Cloth, delivered General Jedidiah Huntington, who en 
 gaged to deliver it you. 
 
 For the above you will account with Thomas Mumford, 
 Esq. Hope they will come safe to hand. Am in great 
 haste Dear Sir, Your very humble servant, 
 
 ZABDIEL ROGERS - 1 
 
 Addressed: Colo Samuel Webb Wethersfield. Per Mr. Peck. 
 
 FROM JOHN PALSGRAVE WYLLYS. 2 
 
 In the winter campaign of .1776 served in the post of 
 Adjutant to Col. Woolcott s Regiment. In the follow 
 ing month of June, was appointed Major of Brigade to 
 the Brigade of new Levies, commanded by General Wads- 
 worth, which rank I enjoyed until the honor of a Cap 
 taincy conferred on me in Col. S. B. Webb s Regiment. 
 
 I am, Gentlemen, with the greatest respect your humble 
 servant, 
 
 J. P. WYLLYS. 
 
 To the Field Officers of Col. Saml. B. Webb s Regiment. Camp at 
 Peekskill, July 15, 1777. 
 
 1 Of the Connecticut Militia. He was a colonel in 1781. 
 
 2 This must refer to some dispute in rank. Wyllys was commis 
 sioned a captain in Webb s regiment, January I, 1777, and no mention 
 is found of previous service. 
 
32 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 To MRS. SIMPSON. 
 
 CAMP PEEKS KILL HEIGHTS, 26th July, 1777. 
 My Dear Sister: 
 
 Lieutenant Colonel Livingston 1 of my Regiment is this 
 moment going with a flag to New York, and if permission 
 is given him to go into the city, he will wait on you. I 
 have only time to say your friends in Connecticut are all 
 well. I left them about three weeks past, and by this 
 conveyance they will be happy to hear from you. Re 
 member me with sentiments of esteem and affection to 
 Mr. Simpson, Miss Simpson, and compliments where 
 due. 
 
 In haste I am as ever your Very Affectionate Brother, 
 
 [SAMUEL B. WEBB.] 
 
 P. S. Mrs. Deane died in June. 2 
 
 FROM HENDRICK BOERUM. 
 
 CAMP, FISH KILL, November I, 1777. 
 
 Received of Col. Samuel B. Webb, two hundred and 
 five dollars in full, for a certain black horse which I war 
 rant him sound, wind, limb, &c. 
 
 HENDRICK BOERUM. 3 
 
 1 William S. Livingston. A number of his letters are in Webb, 
 Correspondence and Journals. 
 
 2 Wife of Silas Deane, but not Webb s mother. 
 
 8 He was of the 2d Regiment, Dutchess County Militia, Colonel 
 Abraham Brinkerhoff, commanding. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 33 
 
 FROM JONATHAN HASTINGS, JR. 
 
 BOSTON, 6th November, 1777. 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 Yours of the 3Oth ultimo has come safe to hand, with 
 one inclosed for Miss T., which was forwarded imme 
 diately. This is only the second received to my very 
 great astonishment; but my surprise would not have been 
 so great, had not a lady promised herself Happiness from 
 your Lucubrations weekly. It stands you now in hand 
 to be punctual and persevering, as many Red Coats will 
 be thereabouts, but sat verbum sapienti. 
 
 I remain yours sincerely, 
 
 JON A . HASTINGS, JuNR. 1 
 
 Addressed: Samuel B. Webb, Esq., at Fishkill. 
 
 FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. 
 
 HARTFORD, November 9th, 1777. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Last Tuesday I received part of a letter from you to 
 which this is an answer. I thank you for it, however. If 
 you will now begin and correspond like a man, I will give 
 letter for letter, but while you only write what you can 
 not avoid, I will count, and you shall have word for word. 
 I have a deal of news, but wont tell you any. Now if I 
 had ever so great an inclination this letter must be short, 
 for without news I am nothing in the letter way. I have 
 a very fruitless noddle. The little girl I ran away with is 
 
 1 Five of this name are found in the Massachusetts Soldiers and 
 Sailors in the War of the Revolution. 
 
34 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 well, and sends her compliments to you and Major Himt- 
 ington. She desires me to tell you the Miss Johnsons are 
 in health. She heard from Sally this evening. I am etc. 
 
 JERE WADSWORTH. 
 
 Who do you think wrote the above letter, Sam? 1 If 
 you cannot find out get the Major 2 to guess, and if he 
 cannot tell ask General Huntington. 3 
 
 J. WADSWORTH. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Samuel B. Webb, Horseneck. 
 
 JOHN ELY* TO MUMFORD AND SHAW. 
 
 On Board the Falcon off 
 
 NEW PORT, December 14, 1777. 
 Gentlemen: 
 
 By this you are Informd that I Embarkd on Board the 
 Sloop Schuyler at Norwalk the Evening after the Qth 
 Instant, stood over for Long Island, the Night being Dark 
 prevented our makeing Harbour. Early in the Morning 
 Discover a Ship Bearing Down uppon us uppon which 
 we Held our Wind Endeavouring to make our Escape 
 but Finding it Impossible the sea runing High, we had no 
 Other Alternative but to run the sloop on shore which we 
 did near Old mans Harbour, in hopes to make our Escape 
 in our Boat. Unhappy[ly] However the Boat Imediately 
 
 1 The first part of the letter is by a feminine hand, probably that of 
 Mrs. Wadsworth. 
 
 2 Wyllys. 
 
 3 Jedidiah Huntington. 
 
 4 Ely was in command of a State Regiment in June, 1777, and thus 
 made his report to the agents of the State of Connecticut. Webb s 
 report was made to General Heath. See Webb, Correspondence and 
 Journals, I, 399. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 35 
 
 Filled along side by which means Col. Webb and several 
 others were nearly Drowned. Those Circumstances obliged 
 us to strike and submitt ourselves Prisoners of war. The 
 ship at this Time had come too within gun shott of us, 
 sent theire Boats on Board and Carryed us on Board the 
 Falcon, commanded by Capt. Harmwood, where we now 
 Continue. Expect to be sent to New York the first Fair 
 wind. We have the Greatest Clemency Liberality and 
 Justice Done us by Every Officer on Board. You are 
 Desired to make manifest to my Family and Friends my 
 Situation and shall be Glad of your Influence to Facili 
 tate the matter of my Exchange as it appears Probable 
 to me Col. DeLancy Being a Militia Officer will Finally 
 be Considered as a Propper Subject for the above Pur 
 pose. Ensigns Abbot, Niles, Adjutant West, and about 
 30 Privates are Prisoners belonging to my Battalion. 
 Capt. Buckley, Lieut. Riley, Ensign Mumford, Adjutant 
 Hopkins, 4 Sergeants and 16 Privates Belonging to Col. 
 Webb s Battallion. I am, Gent., your Humble Servt. 
 
 JOHN ELY. 
 
 Addressed: To Thomas Mumford and Nathaniel Shaw, Esq. To 
 the care of Col. Peck. 1 
 
 JABEZ HUNTINGTON TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL^ 
 Hon d Sir: NORWICH, Deer. 14, 1777. 
 
 I am this moment Informed that Brig. Genl. Parsons 
 was Last night on Long Island at Oster Pond Point, with 
 
 1 From the Trumbull Papers, in the Mass. Hist. Soc. 
 
 2 "A letter of the I4th from Norwich informs that B. General Par 
 sons was last night at Oyster Pond point on Long Island, with about 
 three hundred officers and men in want of aid from N. London to 
 bring them off. One of our transports, Colo. Webb. Colo. Ely, and 
 
36 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 about three hund d officers and men, and was in want of 
 some aid from New London to Bring off his Men. Have 
 Dispatched Majr. Joshua Huntington with Orders to the 
 Commanding Officers of the Forts at N. London and 
 Groton to afford all proper Assistance, which the Mes 
 senger told me they were ready to do on Rect. of Orders 
 from your Excellency or from me. 
 
 Have also wrote to M[umford] and Shaw to advise on 
 the Affair. Trust Everything that can be done from that 
 Quarter will be properly executed and with Despatch. 
 Am informed that one of our Transports is taken and 
 Carried into New Port and Colo. Ely and Colo. Webb and 
 Sundry other Officers on Board. 
 
 Majr. Ebenezer Huntington Escaped from Long Island 
 Last Night and Brought off with him about Eighty of his 
 Men and arrived at N. London before Day. As soon as I 
 have further advice shall Inform. Interim I remain with 
 Esteem and Regard your Excellency s Humb. Servt., 
 
 Jz. HUNTINGTON. 
 
 P. S. If any Intelligence has come to hand since I Left 
 Lebanon, should be Obliged to your Excellency to advise. 1 
 
 JABEZ HUNTINGTON TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL^ 
 > r g ir . NORWICH, Dec. 19, 1777. 
 
 These come per Colo. Saml. B. Webb, who was taken a 
 Prisoner last week and sent to Newport. He has obtained 
 
 sundry other officers on board is taken by the enemy and carried to 
 Newport." Governor Trumbull to Governor Gates, December 15, 1777. 
 7 Mass. Hist. Collections, II, 203. 
 
 1 From the Trumbull Papers, in the Mass. Hist. Soc. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 37 
 
 Liberty to come out on Parole to obtain his Exchange for 
 Lieut. Colo. Combel. 1 As he was taken per the Oliver 
 Crumwel belonging to this State it seems to fall under 
 your Excellency s Jurisdiction to Determine about the 
 Exchange, and as Colo. Webb has obtained Liberty from 
 the Commanding Officer at Newport, thinks he is intitled 
 to the Changes and would propose wheather Colo. Ely 
 might not be Exchanged for Colo. Delance if application 
 was made to Gen. Putnam. All which is Submitted to 
 your Excellency and remain with Esteem and regard, 
 your Excellency s Humble Servt., 
 
 Jz. HuNTINGTON. 
 
 FROM NATHAN BLODGET. 
 
 BOSTON, 8 January, 1778. 
 Sir: 
 
 Messrs. Livingston and Turnbull informed me that 
 they delivered to you for your Regiment 500 hunting 
 shirts, 500 waist coats, and 500 pair overhalls, for which 
 you had given no receipt; and as it is my business to apply 
 for one, shall thank you for it as soon as convenient. 
 Compliments to your brother Jack, if at home. 
 I am, Sir, Your most obedient servant, 
 
 NATHAN BLODGET, 
 Issuing Commissary Cloathing. 
 
 Addressed: To Colonel Samuel B. Webb, Weathersfield, Con 
 necticut. 
 
 1 Archibald Campbell, lieutenant colonel of the 71 st Regiment. 
 
38 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 JOSEPH BARTON TO JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I understand the letter I wrote some time past to the 
 Governor of this State, which letter was delivered by your 
 self, has been the occasion of some affront to his Excel- 
 ency which I am sorry for. I understand it is determined 
 to send the letter or the copy to New York, for some 
 reasons to me unknown. I could wish there might be no 
 difficulty about it, if its in your power, Sir, to hinder any 
 that may arise as to the letter. When I showed it you, 
 wished if you thought there was anything in the letter 
 that the Governor would be affronted, wished you not to 
 deliver it. I remember you told me you were sorry you 
 did deliver the letter, as it seemed not to take the effect 
 you could wish it to do. By your letting the Governor 
 know what was my directions concerning the letter, he 
 will be assured it was the least of my design to give any 
 offence. My troubles, losses and abuses of my family 
 and friends puts me half the time that I scarcely know or 
 think what I write. 
 
 I am, sir, Your most obedient and humble servant, 
 
 Jos. BARTON, Lt. Col. 
 
 January the gth 1777 [1778.] 
 
 Addressed: Mr. Joseph Webb, Wethersfield. 
 
 FROM JOHN HART. 1 
 Dear Sir* SAYBROOK, February 6th, 1778. 
 
 I conclude the time of your staying at Weathersfield is 
 nearly up. Should have been glad to have settled our 
 
 1 Captain in Webb s regiment, commissioned January I, 1777, and 
 resigned in 1780. He had earlier seen service in the militia. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 39 
 
 accounts first, but dont expect to see you before your 
 return. As there is now an opportunity of trying for sol 
 diers with some prospect of success, if you will leave our 
 accounts with your brother, I can settle them with him, 
 when I go to Weathersfield. I have considerable money 
 due from the officers of the Regiment, and when I have 
 collected that, I believe I shall be able to pay nearly the 
 balance; if not you must take my note till I can. I have 
 had no success in recruiting since I returned; but hope to 
 stand a good chance when the draughts are made. Wish 
 ing you an agreeable captivity, and a speedy exchange, I 
 remain Your friend and most obedient servant, 
 
 JOHN HARTE. 
 
 P. S. Please to make my compliments to Capt. Bulk- 
 ley 1 and all our brother officers in New York. 
 
 J. H. 
 
 Addressed: Collo. Samuel B. Webb, Weathersfield. Per Mr. Lynch. 
 
 THOMAS MUMFORD TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL. 
 
 HARTFOPD, i8th February, 1778. 
 Sir, 
 
 You will Receive this by the Hand of Colo. Ely, who I 
 have the pleasure to see Returned to this State, with the 
 assistance of friends (among whom I am informed Colo. 
 Delancey was not the Least) he obtained his parole, as 
 has several other officers, among whom is my Son, the 
 Conditions of which are to return when called for. Mr. 
 Webb and Colo. Ely will give your Excelency every in- 
 
 1 Edward Bulkley, of Wethersfield. 
 
40 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 formation necessary. They inform me Colo. Delancy 
 behaved with the utmost Honor and Politeness, and I 
 find he has Returned agreeable to his Parole to your 
 Excelency, tho urged by Mr. Boudinot, our Commissary 
 of Prisoners, to Remain in New York, that some Southern 
 Colo might come out in his Stead. I hope his Conduct 
 will meet your Excelency s Approbation, and that you will 
 give Leave for him to Return imediately to New York on 
 Parole similar to Colo. Ely s. That I think would not 
 only prevent Colo. Ely s being Remanded, but the other 
 officers that came out of New York with him, and I am 
 quite Convinced unless your Excelency permits Colo. 
 Delancey to Return imediately, all those, our Officers, will 
 be Called for soon. Your favour herein I shall esteem an 
 Obligation conferred on your most Obedient and very 
 Hum. Servant, 
 
 . MUMFORD. 1 
 
 FROM TERENCE MCDERMOTT. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I shall take it as a favor if you will be so good as to call 
 on me tomorrow, as I conceive you misunderstood some 
 part of my conversation with you yesterday. 
 
 I am, dear sir, with great esteem .Your most obedient 
 humble servant, 
 
 T. MCDERMOTT, 35th. 
 February the 27th, 1 778.2 
 
 Addressed: To Col: Webb, Mr. Shearbrooks, New York. 
 
 1 From the Trumbull Papers, in the Mass. Hist. Soc. 
 
 2 Endorsement shows that McDermott was an ensign and that the 
 letter was written from Brooklyn. His capture is mentioned in Webb, 
 Correspondence and Journals, I, 101 n. He was described by Com- 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 4! 
 
 FROM SARAH SIMPSON. 1 
 
 Friday I o clock. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 By Capt. Delancy 2 you will receive this. He expects 
 to leave town 3 this afternoon or tomorrow early. He will 
 be able to give you a particular account of your friends in 
 this part of the world. Am happy to hear that you have 
 so agreeable a home as our good friend Mr. Sherbrooke s; 
 with them you cannot be unhappy. We received your 
 letter by Mr. Winslow, 4 who arrived here Sunday and 
 left us the day following for Boston. Was very thankful 
 that you lent him your horses, which forwarded his journey 
 greatly. I advise you to be in your usual spirits, ever 
 cheerful, which is a great promoter of health. I dare say 
 that it will not be long before you get exchange and return 
 to your much loved friends, who daily wish to see you. 
 Jack has been with us ever since you left Wethersfield; 
 expects to leave us next week. He was very sorry not to 
 find you here. I was in hopes that we might have once 
 more met together after an absence of four years. Do my 
 dear Brother improve every opportunity of writing me. 
 I shall, as knowing they must afford you pleasure not- 
 
 missary of Prisoners Loring as "at this moment no more than a volun 
 teer in our service, and I cannot send a commissioned officer for him." 
 He had given his parole and went to New York to secure an exchange, 
 which appears to have been accomplished in January, 1778. 
 
 1 Now a widow, but the date of her husband s death at New York 
 is not known. 
 
 2 Probably Oliver De Lancey, Jr., whose treatment of Brigadier 
 General Woodhull when in his power has been stigmatized as base and 
 cruel. 
 
 3 Wethersfield. 
 
 4 John Winslow, Deputy Commissary of Prisoners. 
 
42 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 withstanding I have nothing new or entertaining for you, 
 yet it s from a friend and sister who thinks her greatest 
 earthly treasure is her friends. When deprived of them, 
 adieu to all happiness. 
 
 Brother Josey returned safe, no accident attending his 
 journey. Was disappointed at not seeing you. Believe 
 he will write you by this opportunity. If agreeable to you, 
 my dear Sammy, would be greatly obliged if you would 
 get our friend Mrs. Sherbrooke to procure ten yards of 
 the best Russel or Caliminco, 2 yards of fine white flannel, 
 I pair of thick fine black silk mitts, i piece narrow black 
 ribin such as will do for apron strings, 3 yards of common 
 callico that will do for Jack s jams. These things I really 
 want, other ways I would not trouble you. Send them 
 when you think they will come safe, and you will oblige 
 me exceedingly. Remember my compliments to Mr. 
 Sherbrooke and lady, and except of my tenderest love to 
 yourself. I remain your sincere friend and most affec 
 tionate Sister, 
 
 SARAH SIMPSON. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, February 28th, 1778. 
 
 FROM MEHITABEL WEBB. 
 
 Friday Evening, February 28, [1778.] 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I have just heard that Col. Delancy sets off for New 
 York in the morning. I could not let so good an oppor 
 tunity pass without writing a few lines, to assure you 
 that we all are every hour wishing for you again with us. 
 But alas how unavailing are they; but we must make our- 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 43 
 
 selves easy untill you are exchanged, which I flatter myself 
 will be before a great while. You may perhaps think from 
 what I have said that we have some prospect of a speedy 
 exchange; but that is not the case; but I think it right to 
 hope the best, not to anticipate evils. I was very anxious 
 about you untill Sunday last; then your kind letter ar 
 rived and dispelled all my anxiety on your account. How 
 happy you are to be in so amiable a family as our worthy 
 friend Mr. S[herbrooke]; him I know and have the greatest 
 esteem for. His lady is a fine woman, I am not unac 
 quainted with her virtues altho I am to her person. In 
 company with such agreeable people you cannot but be 
 content, I had almost said happy; but I hardly think it 
 possible for a prisoner to be really happy. Do not let 
 your spirits sink for everything depends on keeping 
 them up. 
 
 Your friends at the other house are well and desire to be 
 remembered. They have been much with us of late. The 
 Major is with his friends. It is a week since he left us. 
 
 Mr. L 1 and Col. S n are expected this evening. 
 
 Indeed we have looked for them for this week past. They 
 have paid Boston a much longer visit than they talked 
 off when they left us. Should you see my friend Miss 
 Howard, give my love to the good girl and tell her that I 
 want much to see her; that I often think of the many 
 happy days we have spent together at our good Mrs. 
 Howdings. Ask her too, if you please, what is become of 
 Miss Mobson, that was one of our happy family. I have 
 never heard one word from her since we parted in Boston. 
 I loved the good little girl and should be happy to know 
 that she got safe to her friends. I am called. Adieu, my 
 dear Brother, may you soon be returned to your anxious 
 
44 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 friends, prays your truly sincere and ever affectionate 
 friend and Sister, 
 
 H. W. 
 
 P. S. My compliments to the good gentleman and 
 lady that you are now with. 
 
 Mrs. Simpson s love to Miss Howard. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Samuel B. Webb, New York. 
 
 FROM ELISHA HOPKINS. 
 
 FLAT BUSH, I March, 1778. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Desirous to hear from my friends and relations, likewise 
 to receive any support they might have sent by your 
 [hands], I have desired the bearer to wait upon you with 
 this, (as I understand by Col. Bull l that it was uncertain 
 whether you would be permitted to come to the Island) 
 to receive either money or letters if you cannot come. 
 When Mr. Joseph Webb was in N. York with the flag, I 
 received neither money nor letters, which if should now 
 be the case I am certainly to be pitied. I received from 
 Mr. Mumford a small sum to procure a few things that I 
 was necessitated for, but at present am destitute, and am 
 indebted for making a few shirts. Mr. [John] Riley lives 
 four miles from me, but I saw him last Thursday. He 
 was well, and very desirous of seeing or hearing from his 
 Colonel, which also is the ardent wish of your Adjutant. 
 I am, dear sir, with esteem still your Adjt., 
 
 ELISHA HOPKINS. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam. B. Webb, Prisoner, New York. 
 
 1 Amos Bull. See Webb, Correspondence and Journals, II, 87, 91. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 45 
 
 FROM MRS. GRANT. 
 
 Monday afternoon, 3 o clock, [NEW YORK, March, 1778.] 
 
 By this you will still find I am here. My old friends, 
 and the prospect of the weather [are] such as may detain 
 us a day longer, which revives my drooping spirits, as 
 you may imagine them depressed at the thoughts of leav 
 ing all my friends, perhaps forever; tho I will not suffer 
 that thought to steal upon me, lest it should make an ad 
 dition to my present uneasiness. I am sorry to find it out 
 of your power to come to town, for the wearing thought 
 of restraint is mortifying, in particular to one blest with 
 your spirit. To attempt coming to Flat Bush is out of 
 my power, though I have many friends there my heart 
 wishes to see; but that happy sight I must give up, and 
 thank you for your kind wishes. Kitt is very busy but 
 will try to make time to write. Your mama and all sisters 
 join me in best love to you. May health and happiness 
 attend my friend is the wish of 
 
 ANN G[RANT.] 
 
 We will send you this days paper. 
 
 Addressed: Coll. Sam Webb, at Flat Bush. 
 
 FROM MRS. GRANT. 
 Monday Morning, 12 o clock, [NEW YORK, March, 1778.] 
 
 To my friend, only absent a few hours and already for 
 got by one who I least suspect; as I observed in Kitt s 
 letter you have not thought it worth your while to men 
 tion my name, but will put the most favorable construc 
 tion, and I imagine you did not want to know grief. By 
 
46 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 the appearance of the weather last evening we found we 
 could not go today, and as Mrs. Daubeny with some other 
 ladies came on board to tea, I returned with them once 
 more to have a happy sight of my friends, expecting you 
 to be one in number; but so it is I was mistaken, 
 which I am sorry for. Kitt is gone to look for the papers 
 for you. I Crazy Brain have opened your letter to see 
 what you said, so am in hopes he will return time enough 
 to answer it. Mama and all the family join me in love. 
 Shall I say or compliment? Just as you please, and be 
 lieve me your Sincere friend, 
 
 A[NN] G[RANT.] 
 
 Let me request you will burn these scrawls as soon as 
 you had them, for reasons why you might possibly drop 
 them, and that would not be so agreeable. 
 
 Addressed: Coll. Sam Webb, at Flat Bush. 
 
 To SAMUEL 
 
 -r^ . Saturday, March 8, [1778.] 
 
 JJear oir: 
 
 Inclosed is the bill for what things I could get of the 
 memorandum you sent me. I went to several places, but 
 could not procure the smoak beef and tongues. How 
 ever will be looking out and send them by some other 
 opportunity. Am much obliged to you for the friendly 
 invitation of coming to see you, but it cannot [be] to 
 morrow. The Sunday after, if the weather is good, I 
 intend coming. Whatever commands you may have 
 
 1 A merchant in New York, who had close relations with the Ameri 
 can officers while prisoners of war. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 47 
 
 here please freely to command, Dear Sir, Your most 
 humble servant, 
 
 SAML. CAMFIELD. 
 
 Addressed: To Collo. Saml. B. Webb, at Flatbush. 
 
 FROM CHRISTOPHER MiLLER. 1 
 
 NEW YORK, 17 March, 1778. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I received your friendly letter, and shall treasure its 
 contents. I ll exert myself to bring F. with me to 
 morrow or next day. The bearer brings what papers 
 could be got. I dont find any magazines are come out. 
 Gen. Lee goes to Philadelphia by land in a few days. 
 Mr. Lowring and Major Williams goes with him. The 
 General is fretting at some symptoms of the gout he finds 
 on him. Mrs. Miller and the ladies present their compli 
 ments. Believe me to be, dear sir, your friend and very 
 humble servant, 
 
 CHRIST. MILLER. 
 Addressed: Col. Webb, Long Island. 
 
 FROM SAMUEL CAMFIELD. 
 
 [NEW YORK,] Saturday, March 21 st, [1778.] 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I wrote you last Thursday by Mr. Horsmanden s 2 
 servant, who brought me a verbal message from his 
 
 1 One of the Associators of Dutchess County, N. Y., in 1775. See 
 Webb, Correspondence and Journals, II, 9, 16. 
 
 2 Daniel Horsmanden, chief justice, who died in the following 
 September. He occupied a high position among lawyers, and was the 
 
48 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 master, that he would be glad to see me tomorrow. Upon 
 the strength of that I was obliged to break my promise 
 to you, and defer spending the day with you at your 
 habitation, as I very well knew that I should be the whole 
 day employed with him. His servant is now in town and 
 tells me his master is going to dine out tomorrow, and 
 would be glad of my company another time. And as you 
 do not expect me after what I wrote you on Thursday, I 
 thought I could not with any propriety come, as probably 
 you might be engaged somewhere yourself; so that my 
 not coming up tomorrow I hope you will not impute to 
 ill will or disrespect, but merely to the reasons before 
 given. I remain, Dear Sir, Your very humble servant to 
 command, 
 
 SAMUEL CAMFIELD. 
 
 P. S. The armed vessel commanded by Daniel Moore 
 and by whom you wrote Mr. Seagrove, was taken going 
 up the Delaware river, and of course the letters destroyed 
 or thrown overboard. 
 
 Mrs. and Mr. Sherbrooke desire their best respects to 
 you, and I find they have given your paper to Mr. Hors- 
 manden s servant for him to deliver you an hour ago, so 
 that Pm afraid he is gone over and by whom I intended 
 sending this letter. 
 
 Addressed: To Coll. Saml. B. Webb, at Flatbush. 
 
 author of The New York Conspiracy (1742). His will is in N. Y. Hist. 
 Soc. Collections, 1900, 57, in which he leaves his chariot and horses 
 to Elizabeth, "wife of my worthy friend Miles Sherbrooke, of New 
 York, merchant," and Sherbrooke was one of the executors. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 49 
 
 FROM SARAH SIMPSON. 
 
 Sunday Evening, 10 o clock. 
 
 With pleasure do I improve every opportunity of writ 
 ing my dear Brother, whose welfare is very near my heart. 
 Hope that the time will soon expire, and that we may soon 
 have a happy meeting and converse freely [on] what has 
 passed since our separation. Keep up your usual spirits; 
 remember that we are all well and wish much to see you. 
 I hope that you have received my letters from Col. De- 
 lancy and delivered the inclosed ones to my friends. 
 Brother Jack has been home; left me a few days ago. We 
 heard from him this day. He has grown out of my knowl 
 edge, I think for the better. You must give all our com 
 pliments to Mr. Sherbrooke and Lady. Miss C * who is 
 here desires to be remembered to Brother Sammy, and 
 wishes most ardently to see you. Mrs. Smith who is the 
 bearer of this leaves town early in the morning. 2 She, I 
 dare say, can inform you of particulars which is more 
 than I can write at this time. If you have received my 
 letter and noted the contents do as you think proper, 
 and I will be content. That you may have every blessing 
 from indulgent heaven is the fervent desire of your friend 
 and most affectionate Sister, 
 
 S. SIMPSON. 
 WETHERSFIELD, March 22d, 1778. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Samuel B. Webb, at Mr. Sherbrook, Esq. New 
 York. Per Mrs. Smith. 
 
 1 Chester? 
 
 2 Mrs. John Smith. She was going to New York to visit her 
 mother, having obtained permission from Governor Trumbull. 
 Webb, Correspondence and Journals, II, 17. 
 
5O FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 FROM SYLVESTER DERiNG. 1 
 
 MIDDLETOWN, March 22, 1778. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Having so good an opportunity by Mrs. Smith of 
 writing to New York, take the liberty just to ask you how 
 you do, and to let you know that your friends are well. 
 Doubtless they will write you by her as they know of her 
 going. Mrs. Smith will return soon. By her I should be 
 glad to hear from you. From, Sir, your most obliged humble 
 servant, 
 
 S. DERING. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samll. B. Webb, New York. Per favor Mrs. 
 Smith. 
 
 FROM THOMAS FANNING. 2 
 
 NORWICH, 23 March, 1778. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I truly lament with you the cruel fortune of war that 
 has placed you in your present situation. No one perhaps 
 can have a keener sense of the misfortune of being de 
 tained from dear Friends and connections, than your 
 Friend who has had such large experience in captivity. 
 
 I have however the happiness of congratulating you on 
 the prospect of a general exchange, which I hope and trust 
 is now at hand and in which you will doubtless share. 
 
 When I came from New York October last, I left a bill 
 of exchange in the hands of Mr. Sherbrook, amounting 
 
 1 A refugee from Long Island. Records of the State of Connecticut, 
 
 11,513- 
 
 2 A merchant of Norwich. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 5! 
 
 35 sterling, drawn by Lt. Colin McKenzie on the Pay 
 master of 7 ist Regiment, in favor Mr. Nathaniel Frink. 
 I have not heard since what is the fate of the bill, and as 
 I am informed by your brother of your being at Mr. Sher- 
 brook s house, should be much obliged to you to make 
 inquiry after it, and inform me or Mr. Frink, who is now 
 at the lines waiting an answer. 
 
 Could you send or bring out two yards of % book muslin, 
 and five yards white double edged lace; about inch and 
 half width trimming: lady s hat; also two India Bandana 
 Handkerchiefs, you ll add new obligations to those already 
 conferred on, Dear Sir, Your sincere friend & humble 
 servt., 
 
 FANNING. 
 
 P. S. I paid Mr. Sherbrook about thirty dollars on 
 account of Capt. Barzaliel Beebe. 1 Wish to have Capt. 
 Beebe s receipt taken up. 
 
 Jack Trumbull s compliments. Beg, if you should see 
 Col. De Lancey, you will ask if your brother Joseph gave 
 him a memorandum of some little articles in my way, 
 and whether he has been able to procure them. You will 
 oblige me. Adieu. 2 
 
 1 Of Litchfield, who served in the Militia, 1775-1783, attaining to 
 the rank of lieutenant colonel. He was captured at Fort Washington. 
 A sketch of him is in Kilbourne, Biographical History of the County of 
 Litchfield, 126. 
 
 2 This paragraph is in the writing of John Trumbull. 
 
 
52 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 JOSEPH WEBB TO GOVERNOR TRUMBULL. 
 
 May it please your Excellency. 
 
 I can safely recommend the Bearer, Captain Luke 
 Fortune to your Excellency as a very trustworthy Gen 
 tleman to command the flag you have been so obliging 
 to give the good Mrs. Denting. I have the pleasure to 
 tell you she feels a most grateful Heart for your Polite 
 ness. She is realy deserving, and her situation has realy 
 been very disagreeable, not being able to do as she was 
 bro t up, and separated at a great distance from a fond 
 Husband, much could be said in Justness to her Applica 
 tion and your Excellency s approving of it. But I trust 
 you are well satisfied. But to return to the Bearer, he 
 has sail d in my Employ and I have known him for a 
 Number of years, is now an Inhabitant of this town. By 
 his prudent and good conduct has within a few years 
 arrived to be a Commander of a Vessel from a private 
 Sailor, and collected very honestly a pretty Interest for 
 himself. Is a quiet good man, well attached to the Cause 
 of America; is married into the Family that is connected 
 with Mrs. Deming, and she has now applied to him to 
 wait on your Excellency for the proper Papers, Creden 
 tials, etc., which if agreeable to you he has engaged with 
 her, and is a person that you may put Confidence in. I 
 am your Excellency s most obt. Hble. Servt., 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, April 7, 1778. 
 
 I am extremely happy to hear of your Excellency s 
 being restored to your Health, and must now return you 
 my most sincere thanks for permitting the two sons of 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 53 
 
 Mrs. Winthrop to go on to York. 1 I have not heard from 
 Colo. Webb since I had the pleasure of seeing you at 
 Hartford. 
 
 I have heard several times from Colo. Delancy, and 
 am told he remains quiet and peaceable on his farm, and 
 treated well by both parties, and that he is civil and clever 
 to our people, which is a satisfaction. I beg to know 
 what s become of Capt. Flyn and Judd? You ll please 
 to remember they expected your orders at Rhode Island. 
 I should be happy for an answer to my late several Letters. 
 I suppose your Excellency knows that General Lee is 
 gone thro the Jersies to Philadelphia. 
 
 FROM L. CONNELL. 
 
 Mr. Connell presents his compliments to Colonel Webb 
 and Captain Hamilton, and is sorry that he is ordered to 
 York upon business, which he is afraid will prevent him 
 of having the pleasure of their company today. If they 
 oblige him with it on Monday, he will take it as a par 
 ticular favor. 
 
 Saturday 6 o clock. [April 12, 1778.] 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Webb, Flatbush. 
 
 FROM NATHAN FRINK. 
 Dear Sir: WEST CHESTER, i2th April, 1778. 
 
 I sent you per Col. [James] De Lancey several papers 
 and a small book from Gen. Parsons, who lodged the 
 same with Mr. Sherbrook s letter, Sundry papers. Also 
 
 1 Benjamin and Robert, who were to be taken to London by their 
 uncle Major Sheriff, for their education. 
 
54 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 some paper for Mrs. Van Horn, 1 which Col. De Lancey 
 lodged in the hands of Capt. Murray, Aid de Camp to 
 Gen. Robertson. Could wish you to call on that gentle 
 man for the same. By perusing the letters you ll obtain 
 a very plain idea of what I could wish to obtain. Col. 
 Webb s exertions on the subject will be duly acknowledged 
 by, Sir, your friend and Most obedient servant, 
 
 NATHAN FRINK. 
 
 P. S. Jack Heart-well Worcester. All except Whit 
 ing, in consumption. Dont expect to see him alive on 
 return. Vistelle resigned. In great haste. 2 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Saml. B. Webb. Per Capt. Chapman. 
 
 FROM NATHAN FRINK. 
 
 BRITISH LINES, WEST CHESTER, 2Oth April, 1778. 
 Dear Col.: 
 
 I have sent some papers to New York for Mrs. Van 
 Horn, which are lodged in the hands of Capt. Murray, 
 Aid de Camp to Gen. Robertson, who desired Mrs. Boul- 
 ton (who delivered them) to inform me they would be 
 delivered Mrs. Van Horn in a few days. As they are 
 matters of the greatest consequence to my father, and 
 am told you are acquainted with Capt. Murray, must 
 beg you to call on him for them, and present them to 
 Mrs. Van Horn as soon as possible, and convey the same 
 
 1 Ann, widow of David Van Home, a merchant of New York. She 
 lived in a dwelling and store adjoining on Wall Street, and died in 
 December, 1786, or January, 1787. David Van Home died November 
 10, 1775, a g e d sixty-three. The old Custom House occupied the land 
 on which the Van Home buildings stood. 
 
 2 This postscript is not clear. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 55 
 
 to Col. James De Lancy, who will send them to your 
 friend Knap. Shall go from this to Pennsylvania; on my 
 return will call at Knapps for the papers. Your assist 
 ance in this matter will be duly acknowledged and re 
 warded by, dear Sir, your most Obedient Servant, 
 
 NATHAN FRINKE. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samll. B. Webb, Prisoner, Flat Bush, Long 
 Island. 
 
 FROM SAMUEL CAMFIELD. 
 Dear Sir Wednesday Afternoon, [April 29, 1778.] 
 
 Agreeable to your request [I] have sent you your Ac 
 count, with all the rest of the bills which you have not 
 before had. Your servant delivered me two Guineas 
 
 @ 37/4 
 
 3. 14. 8 
 out of which have paid Allicock for I doz port 
 
 wine as per account 1.17. 4 
 
 Also for 3 reams gilt letter paper @ 2/6 o. 7. 6 
 
 The rest of the money I have given him back again 1 . 9. 10 3 . 14. 8 
 
 Have enquired of Mr. Charles Nichols the price of a 
 quarter cask port wine and he tells me I can have one for 
 ten pounds the cask having between 31 and 32 gallons in 
 it. Should you be inclined to take one at that price, by 
 letting me know I will forward it to you. Depend upon 
 it as soon as I hear Captain Chapman has sent down 
 your horses, I will send them over to you as quick as 
 possible. Mrs. Sherbrooke talks of going out of town next 
 Saturday. They both desire to be remembered to you. 
 I am, Dear Sir, your most humble servant to command, 
 
 SAML. CAMFIELD. 
 
56 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 [Enclosure.] 
 Coll. Samuel B. Webb. 
 
 To Perry, Hayes and Sherbrooke, Dr. 
 1778 
 
 March I. To cash paid for two news papers. o. I. O 
 
 To do. for 2 Hams and a Cheese. 4. 3.9 
 
 To do. for making a Gold Sleeve Button o. 9. o 
 
 To do. for 2 news papers o. I. o 
 
 1 6. To do. for i doz Port Wine I. 17. 4 
 
 20. To do. Grandine and Vanderbelt shoemakers 5. 12. o 
 
 To do. for 2 news papers o. I. o 
 
 31. To do. for half Cost of 4 Lottery Tickets x 2. 8. o 
 
 To do. Joseph Allicocks Bill for Wine, etc. 4. 13. 4 
 
 To do. John Collins s account Taylor I. 16. 4 
 
 To do. for 2 news papers o. I. o 
 
 April 9. To do. for 2 ditto o. I. o 
 
 15. To do. for 2 ditto o. I. o 
 To do. William Burtons Bill for Wine and Porter 3 . 1 1 . 1 1 
 
 16. To do. for I Loaf single refined sugar 7 Ib. @ 2/ o. 14. o 
 To do. for a Pamphlet containing a list of the 
 
 Staff and other Officers in America 2 o. 8. o 
 
 To do. Mrs. Groomes Account for making shirts 7. 16. 6 
 
 To do. Richard Sharvin Sadlers Account 15. 12. o 
 
 49. 8. 12 
 Cr. By Cash received for 3 Prizes in the Lottery, your 
 
 half being 3. 8. o 
 
 46. o. 2 
 Addressed: To Coll. Saml. B. Webb, at Flatbush. 
 
 1 Rivington s Royal Gazette, May 23, 1778, contained the adver 
 tisements of two lotteries. One, held by authority of Major General 
 Robertson, was the third for the benefit of the "Refugee and other 
 Poor" in the city. It offered 9000 tickets at three dollars each, of 
 which 2252 would draw prizes, and the drawing was to be made as 
 soon as the tickets had been sold. The advertisement continued: 
 
 2 Just published by Rivington. 
 
SAMUELBLACHLEYWEBB 57 
 
 FROM SARAH SIMPSON. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, April 3Oth, 1778. 
 
 Your letter, my dear Brother, came safe, and I have 
 just been reading it. Altho short it s very affectionate 
 and afforded me much sattisfaction, as I was then very 
 anxious in regard to your health. Am very glad that you 
 are upon Long Island. The town is too much crowded, 
 and as the warm season approaches it must be disagree 
 able. I have had reason to dread any more of my friends 
 being there, fatal as it was to them. I shall never love 
 the place more. Should you see Miss Howard tell her I 
 have not forgot her, but should be glad to see her here 
 again. I have not time to write her. Indeed I am not well; 
 therefore, you must pardon all amiss in this. I was loth 
 so good an opportunity should slip without writing. 
 This you will receive from Doct. Tudor. 1 Shall expect 
 an answer when he returns, so don t disappoint me. 
 Sister Webb and Hetty dined out, otherways would have 
 wrote. All your friends wish to see you, and hope that 
 you may return soon. Whenever that happy time arrives, 
 must still if possible request you to bring those things 
 
 "To the Profits arising from the different Lotteries, many, who were 
 perishing for Want, most probably owe their Existence. The rapid 
 sale of Tickets fully evinces the Desire of each adventurer to contrib 
 ute their Proportion to the common Charity, and to each of these the 
 Blessings of the Fatherless and the Widows are due." The second 
 lottery was by authority of Major General Valentine Jones, to raise 
 210 New York currency for the benefit of the distressed poor in the 
 loyal borough and town of West-Chester. To raise that sum 1400 
 tickets were offered at 20 / each, or 1400. 
 
 1 Dr. Elihu Tudor, of East Windsor, who had studied with Dr. 
 Benjamin Gale, famous in his day, and later pursued his studies in 
 London. 
 
58 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 that I some time ago wrote for, as I much want them, es 
 pecially the caliminico. My friend Mrs. Atkinson will 
 give you a small box, if she gets them in season, which I 
 must beg your particular care of, as they are of conse 
 quence to me, and no other person. We had letters from 
 Jack this week; he was well and happy. Major Hunting- 
 ton is gone, and all the rest have followed his example. 
 Our friend Nancy Johnson * we expect in a few days. 
 You are frequently enquired after, but thought of by 
 none more than your sincere friend and affectionate 
 sister, 
 
 SARAH SIMPSON. 
 
 Should you see Mr. Sherbroke and lady, remember my 
 compliments to them. The three littel ones are well. 
 Sally improves fast. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Sam l B. Webb, New York. By Mrs. Hay. 
 
 FROM SAMUEL CAMFIELD. 
 
 Saturday Noon, [NEW YORK, May 2, 1778.] 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have been to all the Booksellers in Town and have 
 only found the Inclosed Play, which I got of Rivington, 
 who strongly recommends to you the Perusal of the Book 
 now sent you, which I paid him a Dollar for, but at same 
 time promises to take it back again if you dont want it. 
 The articles now sent cost as follows, viz: 
 
 Daughter of William Samuel Johnson. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 59 
 
 y 2 lb. best Hyson Tea @ 37/4 o. 18. 8 
 
 ^2 Souchong Tea i6/ o. 8. o 
 
 i Play, Fair Penitent 1 o. 2. o 
 
 I Pamphlet Constitution of England 2 o. 8. o 
 
 i. 16. 8 
 
 Mr. and Mrs. Sherbrooke desire their compliments to 
 you, and certainly will be up at Flatbush on Monday 
 next. 
 
 I am, Dear Sir, Your obliged humble servant to com 
 mand, 
 
 SAMUEL CAMFIELD. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 POMFRET, May 5th, 1778. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I am now here on a journey to Boston. Mr. Frink has 
 just called upon me, and acquaints me that Ensign Green 
 is going in to York upon some business of Mr. Frink as 
 well as his own. Should Ensign Green call upon you (if 
 consistent) I wish you to go with him to Mrs. Van Horn s 
 aid, and assist him what you can. I have received your 
 letters about sending your horses, but it will not at present 
 answer. I must confess I am much chagrined that you 
 have not had the offer of coming out upon parole at least. 
 Many gentlemen of the army and others I thought would 
 interest themselves in your behalf. 
 
 I most sincerely wish it might be allowed you to come 
 out and stay with me. Had I time, I would write more 
 
 1 By Nicholas Rowe. 
 
 2 De Lolme s book, published by Rivington. It was much read, and 
 received praise from Junius, Lords Chatham and Camden, and Justice 
 Story. 
 
6O FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 largely upon the subject. I have just heard that Generals 
 How and Washington have broke off the general cartel. 1 
 I hope it is not true. My compliments to Messrs. Sher- 
 brook, Chew, Lorrain [Loring], Winslow, &c., &c., &c. 
 And Believe me, Dear Sammy, Your Most Affectionate 
 Brother, 
 
 JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Samuel B. Webb, a Prisoner, New York. Per 
 Ensign Green and Mr. Frink. 
 
 FROM SARAH SIMPSON. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, yth May, 1778. 
 
 Mr. Frink was so obliging as to call upon us just now, 
 going immediately into N. York. I prevailed upon his 
 waiting half an hour that I might write you a line, and 
 acquaint you of our situation from time to time. At 
 present we enjoy health but not happiness, while this 
 war continues which deprives us of so many of our dear 
 friends. My Brothers are all from home. Josey left us 
 last Monday for Boston; expect him some time next 
 week. Tuesday evening Mrs. Knox and Capt. Lilly 2 
 arrived here; left us early next morning. Then came the 
 two Miss Johnsons, Col. Henly 3 and Mrs. Hay, 4 a lady 
 
 1 The question of a general cartel is fully presented in Webb, Cor 
 respondence and Journals. 
 
 2 Captain John Lillie, of Massachusetts, serving in the artillery of 
 the Continental army. 
 
 3 Col. David Henley, colonel of one of the sixteen additional Con 
 tinental regiments. He retired in 1779. 
 
 4 Probably the wife of Dr. Hayes, mentioned in Camfield s letter, 
 p. 65, infra. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 6l 
 
 that was going direct to N. York, by whom I sent letters, 
 one for you, Mrs. Atkinson and Sister Winslow. Hope 
 they may reach you safe. We daily expect to see you; 
 if not exchanged, upon parole. Your friends are im 
 patient to see you, none more than myself. The season is 
 [so] far advanced that nature wears a most beautiful 
 aspect; yet to a mind filled with so gloomy ideas as my 
 own nothing pleases. Such a continual loss of friends 
 that was once my treasure makes life all most burdensome. 
 Many painful hours do I pass when I reflect on past 
 happy days, when I had every desire that my heart could 
 wish. What a change in my situation is the present day. 
 Hope and expectation are gone, and a train of disappoint 
 ments left in their room. I endeavour all in my power to 
 bear up under so many repeated trials. Early did my 
 afflictions begin. May I be resigned to every event that 
 may await me through life. Sister Webb, Hetty and 
 Abby beg to be remembered most affectionately to Brother 
 Sammy. Should you see any of my acquaintance my 
 compliments await them. Adieu, my dear Brother, may 
 you be preserved from the ills of life, and safe return to 
 make us happy, is the most ardent desire of her who is, 
 and ever will be, your sincere friend and most affectionate 
 Sister, SARAH SIMPSON. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Sam. B. Webb, at Flat Bush, on Long Island. 
 By Mr. Frink. 
 
 FROM NATHAN FRINK. 
 j} ear c- . STRATFORD, nth May, 1778. 
 
 I send you by Ensign Greene sundry letters I wrote you 
 by Mr. Boulton, desiring your assistance in settling a 
 
62 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 matter with Mrs. Van Horn. I have now inclosed the 
 papers prepared anew. By perusing the letters to Mrs. 
 Van Horn will give you a plain idea of what I could wish 
 to obtain. My dear sir, your influence with Mrs. Van 
 Horn will be of great service to one who wishes you every 
 happiness in life, and will not be unthought of and re 
 warded by, dear Sir, your Most Obedient Servant, 
 
 NATHAN FRINK. 
 
 N. B. Mrs. Van Horn can get continental or Con 
 necticut loan office certificates at six per cent. Interest, 
 if she pleases, for her money, and lodge them with Mr. 
 John Smith, a particular friend here. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam ll B. Webb, a prisoner, New York. 
 
 FROM E. V. EDWARDS. 
 
 BRUNSWICK, [May, 1778.] 
 My Dear Friend: 
 
 I have just time to inform you of being returned from 
 Morristown, where your brother Jack is. He is well. 
 Colonel White 1 who commands at Brunswick was so 
 exceedingly polite as to furnish me with a party of his 
 horse to go there, and escort me himself ten or twelve 
 miles on the way. I spent two days up that way very 
 agreeably indeed, found all well and in fine spirits, never 
 gayer; a thousand questions were asked. 
 
 Last evening I supped with Colonel White and about 
 
 thirty more. Mr. D /, a brother, was of the party. 
 
 Daylight caught us unawares and we broke up. 
 
 1 Anthony Walton White. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 63 
 
 Inform Mr. C- - his chair will come in by the very 
 next flag. His brother, where I now write this, promises 
 to send it. He may depend upon getting it, as the boat 
 man is spoken to, and promises to take it. 
 
 In one hour I proceed to Provincetown with White s 
 horse. 
 
 Remember me most affectionately you know where; and 
 mind your eye, Sam. Adieu for the present. I am, etc., 
 
 E. V. EDWARDS. 
 
 N. B. The day before I arrived at Brunswick my 
 brother dined there with Mr. Clark, and had just left it. 
 
 May I2th, 1778. 
 
 A word to Jim for me. Tell him I have just dispatched 
 my message, and he will receive what I promised him. 
 
 Addressed: Colon l Saml. B. Webb, Prisoner, Flat Bush. 
 
 PAROLE. 
 
 I, Samuel B. Webb, of Weathersfield in Connecticut, 
 having leave to remain at Long Island on Parole, do 
 hereby pledge my truth and word of honor that I will not 
 do or say anything contrary to the interest of his Majesty 
 or his government, and that I will not depart from the 
 house I am placed in by the Commissary for Prisoners, 
 nor go beyond the bounds by him prescribed. Given 
 under my hand at Flatt Bush, Long Island, this four 
 teenth day of May, 1778. 
 
 SAML B. WEBB, 
 Colo. American Army. 
 
 Witness: Thomas Clark, Serjt. 2$th Regt. 
 
64 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 FROM J. GREEN. 
 o- . NEW YORK, i6th May, 1778. 
 
 Mr. Campfield has been so obliging to have the in- 
 closures conveyed you. Mr. Parsons left some papers 
 for me at Stratford to be sent you. The drafts of bills of 
 Parliament [I] have not sent, as political observations 
 were introduced by Mr. Parsons at the bottom of it, and 
 really such as that gentleman never could expect a British 
 officer to carry. Two letters with ten dollars accompanies 
 this; beg you ll deliver, and take receipt for the money 
 of Captain Welles, as I have given one to your brother in 
 Weathersfield. Shall be glad to see you in town on some 
 government business. Beg you ll inquire for me at Colonel 
 Anstruther s 1 lodgings No. 8 Broad street. 
 Very obedient servant, 
 
 J. GREEN, 
 Ensign 62 Regiment. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Saml. B. Webb, Flatbush. 
 
 FROM SAMUEL CAMFIELD. 
 Dear Sir Saturday afternoon, [May 16, 1.78.] 
 
 The officer that came in from Connecticut has just now 
 called here with Ten Dollars, which he forgot to deliver 
 me this morning, and which I now send you up by Mr. 
 Clarkson. 2 I am, Sir, your obliged humble servant to 
 command, SAMUEL CAMFIELD. 
 
 Addressed: To Coll. Sam l B. Webb. Per favour of Mr. Clarkson. 
 
 1 Lieutenant Colonel John Anstruther, of the 6zd Regiment. 
 
 2 This may be Levinus Clarkson, who had married a daughter of 
 Mrs. Van Home. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 65 
 
 FROM SARAH SIMPSON. 
 
 Again an opportunity offers of writing to my dear 
 Brother, which I with pleasure improve, fearful that I 
 shall not be able to write you very soon again, as I am at 
 present very unwell, and have been for several days past. 
 Still hope that it will not be long before we have the long 
 wished for happiness of seeing you here. Your friends, 
 one and all, wish it most ardently, and are anxious for 
 your being exchanged, none more than myself, my dear 
 Sammy. We hear from you frequently, that you enjoy 
 a great share of health but not content; therefore cannot 
 be happy. I wrote you last by Mrs. Hay, which I have 
 no doubt but you received in season, as she engaged to 
 deliver them herself to Mr. Winslow. Miss N. Johnson 
 is here, desires her compliments. Sister Hetty andAbby 
 beg to be remembered .most affectionately. Would write 
 provided their letters could go sealed. Josey writes you 
 and will be more particular than it s in my power to be. 
 Nothing has taken place worth my acquainting you of, 
 otherways I should inform you immediately. Write me 
 if agreeable as they add greatly to my happiness. Let me 
 know if you ever see my friend Miss Howard, Mrs. Sher- 
 broke; tell them I want much to see them. May Heaven 
 bless you with his choicest gifts and restore you safe to 
 the arms of your most affectionate sister, 
 
 SARAH SIMPSON. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, May 25th, 1778. 
 
 FROM SAMUEL CAMFIELD. 
 Dear Sir: May 27th, 1778. 
 
 At Mrs. Pelletreau s, the House that I Diet at, Lives a 
 gentlewoman by the name of Hayes, whose husband was 
 
66 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 a Doctor in Boston, from which place she is but lately 
 come, in order to take her passage home to England, 
 where her husband has been sometime. She is well ac 
 quainted with some of your family, and has received a 
 great many civilities from them, and would be glad to 
 see you the next time you come to town. I promised her 
 I would make you acquainted with it, which I now do by 
 this opportunity. 
 
 I have agreeable to your order interested you a half 
 part in company with myself in four tickets in the present 
 lottery, which is advertised to be drawn the loth of next 
 month, and I now send you the numbers of the same, 
 being as follows, viz: No. 910, 4876, SS3S> 7733- May 
 they prove fortunate and turn out to account, which will 
 compensate for the ill success we have experienced in the 
 former ones. 
 
 If you can do what I was speaking to you upon the last 
 time I had the pleasure of seeing you here, you will greatly 
 assist my friend in the country, as well as doing a great 
 favor for, Dear Sir, Your obliged humble servant to 
 command, 
 
 SAML. CAMFIELD. 
 
 Addressed: To Coll. Saml. B. Webb, at Flatbush, Long Island. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH FRENCH. 1 
 
 Saturday, 10 O Clock P. M. [June, 1778.] 
 Sir: 
 
 I send you by my sergeant five Letters, which I received 
 from Mrs. Vanhorne, belonging to some of your gentle- 
 
 1 Ensign in the 35th Regiment. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 67 
 
 men. If you will be so good as to return them to the gen 
 tlemen that own them, you will much oblige your Most 
 obedient Humble servant, 
 
 JOS H FRENCH, 
 
 3$th Regiment. 
 
 FROM THOMAS CHAPMAN. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I beg ten thousand pardons for not keeping my appoint 
 ment of dining with you on Friday last. Particular busi 
 ness I assure you prevented, which I shall inform you 
 tomorrow. I this morning obtained leave to go to New 
 York, and tomorrow intend doing myself the pleasure of 
 taking a family dinner with you. If should see Mr. Shay- 
 lor 1 in town, I will bring him with me. And am your 
 most obedient Humble Servant, 
 
 THOMAS CHAPMAN. 
 
 BROOKLYN, Sunday morning, [June, 1778.] 
 
 FROM JOSEPH CnEw. 2 
 
 Mr. Chew s compliments to Colo. Webb, and would have 
 seen him at Long Island if it had been in his power. In 
 case the exchange should take place, he must see the 
 
 1 Nathaniel Shaler. 
 
 2 Jones, in his History of New York during the Revolutionary War 
 (I. 216), says that Chew was of Tryon County, and because of the 
 oppression of the "rebels," was among those who abandoned their 
 property and sought refuge in Canada. In 1777 he was Deputy Com 
 missary of Forage in the British army at New York, and was captured 
 on Long Island and taken to Connecticut. A petition from him to 
 Governor Trumbull is in 5 Mass. Hist. Coll., X, 40, 41. 
 
68 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 Colonel, and give him a state of his brother s demands 
 left with Mr. Chew for money advanced some prisoners, 
 not a farthing of which Mr. Chew has yet received. 
 
 NEW YORK, Tuesday, 2<d June, [1778.] 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, Flatbush. 
 
 FROM NATHAN FRINK, JR. 
 
 HORSE NECK, 8th June, 1778. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Yours of i yth May came to hand on the 2Oth, which 
 were immediately forwarded; since which I have been at 
 Wethersfield and Hartford. On my return from the latter 
 your brother was gone to Middletown. Sebra : told me 
 to get you a horse, which would soon be sent in for your 
 use. In your letter you mention the receipt of my letters, 
 but not their several inclosures; which I m much sur 
 prised to hear, for I do assure you there was not a syllable 
 could in any way injure the public. It only referred to 
 the settlement of some matters with Mrs. Van Horn, 
 which were of much concern to my father. The particular 
 circumstances shall here relate, and must beg your patience; 
 not only that but your assistance, which I hope soon to 
 have the pleasure to see and reward you for. In 1764 my 
 father received sundry bonds (as per account inclosed) 
 due to Mr. David Van Home (then living) through the 
 hands of Doctor Johnson of Stratford, Mr. Van Home s 
 attorney, to collect. On collecting the bond, receiving 
 part monies and part land for the securing the debt to the 
 family, my father made over by deed sundry pieces of 
 
 1 Jacob Sebor? 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 69 
 
 land to Mr. David Van Home on the iQth of March, 
 1773. The matter rested in this manner until December, 
 1776; (during which Dr. Johnson put the debt into the 
 hands of Mr. Samuel Huntington of Norwich : ). About 
 the 2Oth of December my father received a letter from 
 Dr. Johnson informing Mrs. Van Home was then at 
 Fairfield, and anxious to get her money. In the course of 
 ten days after he received another from Mr. Huntington 
 on the same subject, adding and directing him to make 
 sale of the lands, remitting Mrs. Van Home the cash and 
 taking acquittance. In consequence of which, in Feb 
 ruary and March following, he sold the lands and gave 
 warrantee Deeds of them, came to inquire for Mrs. Van 
 Home. She was in Brunswick or New York. Thus lies 
 the matter. Two warrantee deeds are now on record for 
 the same lands, and the purchasers are endeavoring to 
 injure my father by troublesome law suits, to prevent 
 which two methods only can be taken. The first is for 
 Mrs. Van Home to give Quit Claims to my father, order 
 ing her son David to receive the money, after indorsing 
 the inclosed account for payment to him; or empowering 
 John Smith, Esqr., formerly of New York, (who desired 
 I d make use of his name to her) by filling, signing the 
 inclosed blank to him, and enabling him to negotiate the 
 business as he shall think proper. The second would 
 have been much best for our family, and attended with 
 very little expense to what the first has already been - 
 that is to throw in a petition to the General Assembly, 
 and get them to receive the cash and validate the sale of 
 the lands; which the Governor will do, and I have been 
 
 1 Afterwards president of the Continental Congress. 
 
7O FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 sundry times advised to, but Mrs. Van Home has used 
 my father with the greatest politeness, and nothing but 
 necessity would induce him to proceed in that manner. 
 But am sure Mrs. Van Home must be sensible it was 
 through her mistake the matter was not settled fifteen 
 months since, as will appear, if she has received either of 
 Dr. Johnson s letters. A repitition of words [is] unneces 
 sary. If she is disposed to settle the debt, have inclosed 
 a memorandum by which she can get drawn the two quit 
 claims. All I can say is, wish most sincerely this method 
 might be adopted to prevent more trouble, as I have 
 made three journeys from Pomfret to this place to ac 
 complish it. 
 
 Mrs. Simpson was well on Tuesday last as also the 
 family. Beg you ll make my best respects to all your 
 neighbors, and am, Dear Sir, your sincere friend and most 
 obedient servant, 
 
 NATHAN FRINK, JUNIOR. 
 
 P. S. I hope soon to see you personally and apologize 
 for so many troublesome letters. General Parsons and 
 your Brother s letters comes inclosed, but not the copies 
 of General Philips letter; through mistake it was left at 
 Wethersfield. 
 
 General Parsons had written for Lieutenant Colonel 
 Cleveland 1 to be exchanged for one Lieutenant Richard 
 son. 2 If he comes out it will be a very convenient oppor 
 tunity for the returns, if any there be. One thing omitted. 
 Mrs. Van Home must inclose Dr. Johnson s receipt for 
 
 1 Samuel Cleaveland, of the Royal Artillery. 
 
 2 A Captain John Richardson, of Pennsylvania, was taken prisoner 
 at Fort Washington, and was exchanged August, 1778. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 71 
 
 the bonds, if she empowers Captain Smith as desired. 
 Beg you ll inform her her lands between Fairfield and 
 Stratford are in bad order. People are cutting woods, 
 and no person to say Why do ye so? Dr. Johnson in 
 formed me of that. 
 
 N. F. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam ll B. Webb, Flatbush. 
 
 To BARNABAS DEANE. 
 
 FLAT BUSH on Long Island, 
 
 June I2th, 1778. 
 My Dear Sir: 
 
 It is neither want of opportunity, leisure or inclination, 
 that I have not before answered your agreeable letter of 
 the 27th of March, but merely because my situation 
 debars me from saying anything to you which can be new 
 or interesting, that I remain in a state of existence you no 
 doubt have frequently heard from my brother. I have 
 long been in hopes of an exchange, or at least obtaining 
 permission to retire on parole to my friends in the coun 
 try. When either will take place I am totally ignorant; 
 soon I hope, for my present situation is more disagreeable 
 and tedious than any former part of my life. Doctor 
 Tudor, 1 who takes charge of this, will be able to tell you 
 what vessels have been bro t into New York from our 
 part of the country. Remember me to our friends and 
 believe me, 
 
 Your unalterable friend, etc. 
 
 SAMUEL B. WEBB. 
 
 1 See p. 57, supra. 
 
72 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 When you write our friend in France, 1 assure him of my 
 warmest affection for him and the little boy. Your old 
 friend Sherry 2 and others of your acquaintance are well, 
 and desire their compts. 
 
 Addressed: Barna: Deane, Esq., Merchant, Wethersfield, Con 
 necticut. 
 
 FROM SARAH SIMPSON. 
 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 Long before this we expected to have seen you and am 
 anxious at your delay. What can be the reason? Your 
 friends all wish your return and that speedily. However 
 keep your usual spirits, all may yet turn as you desire. 
 Indeed a state of confinement is very disagreeable, and I 
 hope you ll soon be out of it. Your kind letter of the 
 1 7th of May I received and return you my sincere thanks. 
 Continue to write me while you stay; they afford me great 
 satisfaction. Am happy mine reached you safe. It will 
 convince you that I am not neglectful of my friends that s 
 absent. 
 
 I should make many apoligys for the incorrectness of 
 this letter, but my eyes are weak; for it s but little more 
 than three weeks since I was confined. Indeed I have not 
 left my chamber yet. I have a fine daughter, and we are 
 both very well. I dined with Mrs. Chester three days 
 ago; they were all well and expressed a great desire to 
 see you. Our friend Nancy [Johnson] left us on Friday. 
 Sister Abby returned with her, and is to spend some time 
 at Stratford. As soon as you get leave to return to Weth- 
 
 1 Silas Deane. 
 
 2 Perhaps a familiar mention of Sherbrooke. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 73 
 
 ersfield, give my friends timely notice, so that they may 
 write me. I heard from Brother Jack yesterday. He was 
 in health and spirits; was surprised that he could hear 
 nothing of you. Remember me to Mrs. Sherbroke and 
 my other friends, and you will oblige your sincere friend 
 and most affectionate sister, 
 
 SARAH SIMPSON. 
 WETHERSFIELD, June 21, 1778. 
 
 FROM HETTY WEBB. 
 
 [WETHERSFIELD,] June 22, 1778. 
 
 I have once taken up my pen to write my dear brother. 
 Accept my thanks for your last; it afforded me much 
 pleasure. It informed me of your health, which is all I 
 expect to know until I have the pleasure of seeing you at 
 that happy time, when will it arrive? I am too apt to 
 flatter myself that it will soon be here. Every day for 
 this past week we have looked for you. Every one that 
 came out would tell us that you were to come out in a 
 day or two after them. I must own it seems a little strange 
 that you cannot neither be exchanged, or on parole get 
 out, but perhaps there is reason for their detaining you 
 that I know nothing about. I will not think too hardly 
 of them. 
 
 Your friends are all well and desire to be most affec 
 tionately remembered. I had a letter a few days ago from 
 Jack. He was then very well and in good spirits. Little 
 Sally very often wishes that she could see you. 
 
 Adieu. May health and happiness attend you prays 
 your most sincere and affectionate Friend and sister, 
 
 H. W. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Sam B. Webb, Flat-Bush. 
 
74 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 A BILL. 
 
 [June, 1778.] 
 Coll. Saml. B. Webb 
 
 To Perry, Hayes & Sherbrooke, Dr. 
 
 1778. April 30. To Balance as per Accot. Currt. rendered 47.17.10 
 May 1 6. To Taylor & Nicholas Account for I Quar 
 ter Cask Port Wine 10 Sterling is 
 17. 15. 7 Cy., with the Cask I2/ if re 
 turned to be deducted 1 8. 7. 7 
 To Gaine and Robertson s News Papers 
 
 twice this month o. 2. o 
 
 To Cash paid for Bottle Port Wine sent 
 
 you as a sample. o. 3. 2 
 
 19. To Cash paid Francis Groome his Accot 
 
 for making Shirts and Stocks as per 
 Accot. ii. 13. o 
 
 Deduct for so much charged of 
 this Account in the last Accot. 
 Currt. delivered you 7. 16. 6 3. 16. 6 
 
 20. To Gaine and Robertsons News Papers o. I. o 
 To half Cost of 4 Lottery Tickets 2. 8. o 
 
 31. To Gaine and Robertsons News Papers o. I. o 
 To Cash paid for I Loaf dble refined 
 Sugar, wt. 7 Ibs. 4 ozs. @ 2/6 o. 18. o 
 Yz Ib. best Hyson Tea 37/4 o. 18. 8 I. 16. 8 
 
 74. 13. 9 
 Addressed: To Coll. Saml. B. Webb, at Flatbush. 
 
 FROM JOHN ATKINSON.* 
 
 NEW YORK, July 4th, 1778. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 Yours of this date I received, inclosing two bills and a 
 note of hand, together amounting to 285 sterling, which 
 sum when received I will pay to your order. I think it 
 
 1 A merchant in New York. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 75 
 
 would not be amiss to drop Governor Brown 1 a line on 
 the subject you mention, and the sooner it is done the 
 better, as there will be an opportunity for Providence in 
 a few days. I wrote your brother a few lines yesterday 
 and told him that I had had the pleasure of seeing you 
 well the day before. If I can persuade Mrs. A. to get into 
 a carriage we will do ourselves the pleasure of drinking tea 
 with you some afternoon. She desires to join in compli 
 ments with Your friend and humble servant, 
 
 JNO. ATKINSON. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Webb, Flat Bush, Long Island. 
 
 FROM JAMES MoRRis. 2 
 
 Respected Sir: NEW LoTTS > 
 
 By the Bearer hereof I return the Pamphlets which you so 
 kindly lent me. I thank you for the use of them. Should 
 have returned them sooner had it not been for the orders 
 restricting each of us to our respective Quarters. Fur 
 thermore must beg leave to trouble you with the follow 
 ing Memorial. 
 
 In March, in the year 1777, I was appointed by order 
 of General Parsons to take charge of the public Hospital 
 at Litchfield for the Inoculation of the soldiery belonging 
 to the Continental Army. Not receiving any supplies of 
 Money for carrying the business into execution, I was 
 
 1 Mountford Brown. 
 
 2 James Morris had taken part in the Quebec expedition and was 
 commissioned, January i, 1777, a lieutenant in the 5th Regiment of 
 the Connecticut Line, Philip Burr Bradley being the colonel. He 
 was from Litchfield. He was not exchanged until January 3, 1781, by 
 which time he held the rank of Captain. 
 
76 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 obliged to make the best shift I possibly could, having 
 encouragement of receiving the money as soon as I should 
 close my accounts. After I had accomplished the business 
 I made application for the money sundry times without 
 any success, till finally I was obliged to join the Regiment 
 to which I belonged. After the British landed at the 
 Head of Elk I marched with the detachment under General 
 McDougaPs command from Peekskill, in order to join the 
 main Army near Philadelphia. Immediately after it was 
 my fortune to be made a prisoner of war being at German- 
 town, the 4th of October ult., and ever since that period 
 I have been in captivity. My above mentioned accounts 
 remain (I conclude) yet unsettled, being to the great 
 uneasiness of my Creditors. 
 
 In this situation I humbly request your assistance in 
 procuring a Parole for me at large (should not my ex 
 change soon be effected) that I might have an opportunity 
 to retire into the country and discharge the aforesaid 
 accounts. Your kindness once in procuring for me the 
 above favor shall ever be gratefully acknowledged and 
 remembered by your most obedient humble servant, 
 
 JAMES MORRIS. 
 
 P. S. Sir. Should you be so lucky as to be soon ex 
 changed yourself, and not procure the requested favor 
 for me, please to give my respects to Genl. Parsons men 
 tioning my circumstances. Perhaps it may be in his 
 power by some means to provide a way for my liberation. 
 
 With full confidence in your willingness to lend me 
 every aid, I am, Sir, with respect yours, 
 
 J. MORRIS. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, Flatbush. Mr. Lott. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 77 
 
 JACOB SEBOR TO MILES SHERBROOKE. 
 
 Mr. Miles Sherbrooke. 
 
 For value received please to pay Samuel B. Webb, Esq., 
 Thirty Six Pounds Sterling, being the amount of two 
 setts Bills drew by Wm. Page and Wm. Cooke, sent you 
 by Mr. Joseph Chew, Sept. 1777, or what part of said 
 bills you have received after deducting your costs and 
 commission, and you ll greatly oblige Your most Humble 
 Servant, 
 
 JACOB SEBOR. 
 
 MlDDLETOWN, Sept. Qth, 1778. 
 
 FROM BENJAMIN TALLMADGE. 
 
 x BEDFORD, October 6th, 1778. 
 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Inclosed I send you per Flagg, two half Joes and one 
 Guinea, money left in my hands by Captain [Edward] 
 Bulkley of your Regiment which I am desired to transmit 
 to Lieutenant Riley of your Regiment. Thinking it more 
 probable that Lieutenant Riley will get the money by di 
 recting it to you than himself, I have ventured to trouble 
 you on the subject, and beg that you would forward the 
 same to him by the first opportunity. 
 
 I am, Dear Sir, with sincerity your obedient friend and 
 humble servt., 
 
 BENJ. TALLMADGE. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, Prisoner, New York, Long 
 Island. 
 
7$ FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 FROM LEWIS PINTARD. 
 
 Dear Sir* ^ EW YORK, 17 October, 1778. 
 
 I sent, a few days after my return from the Jersey, 
 Leffert Lefferts 1 an order drawn on me by Captain Lam 
 bert Byles, who formerly boarded with him for about 
 15. Lefferts says there is double that sum due to him 
 from Captain Byles, and I have wrote out about it, and 
 he refuses to pay any more. I desired Mr. Lefferts to 
 send me said order with his receipt thereon and I would 
 pay it, but he has not done it. I will be obliged to 
 you to call on him [torn] me, and desire him to send it 
 Monday next, otherwise I cannot pay the order, as I 
 am under a necessity of closing the accounts. Expecting 
 in a few days to go out, as from what I can find leave will 
 not be given to Col. Beatty to come in, I am in haste, 
 Your very humble servant, 
 
 L. PINTARD. 
 Addressed: Coin. Saml. B. Webb, Flat Bush. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM AXTELL. 
 
 Mr. Axtell s best compliments to Colonel Webb; begs 
 to acquaint him General Tryon will be here tomorrow or 
 next day, at which time he will communicate to the 
 General Colonel Webb s wish to see him. Mr. Axtell was 
 disappointed in not seeing the General last week. 2 
 
 Oct. 26th, 1778. 
 
 1 Lefferts was of Kings County, and one of the addressers of Gov 
 ernor Robertson in 1778. 
 
 2 Axtell, in Kings, and Hamilton, in Queens, are charged with making 
 money by arbitrarily imposing fines for a neglect of militia service. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 79 
 
 FROM OLIVER SMITH. 
 gj r . Wednesday morning, NEW YORK, [November, 1778.] 
 
 I had the honor of forwarding you some letters from 
 your friends at Weathersfield on my arrival at this place, 
 and then flattered myself that I should have the pleasure 
 of seeing you; but as that is not in my power from a mul 
 tiplicity of unexpected business, I have thought it neces 
 sary to acquaint you, that I propose setting out tomorrow 
 for Boston; and as I go through Weathersfield shall be 
 glad to have your com[mands] for your friends there. 
 Your brother, Mr. J. Webb, informed me that a bill 
 drawn by Mrs. Melvill in his favor on Mr. Eules for 50 
 sterling was transmitted you, and as Mr. Eules informs me 
 the bill is paid, I suppose you will write to forward the 
 money to Mrs. Melvill, who is much in want of it. Mrs. 
 Lyman also of New Haven informed me it was probable 
 you had received some money on her account, which 
 she wished me to bring her. This, or other business in 
 which I can serve you, will be executed with pleasure by, 
 Your most obedient servant, 
 
 OLIVER SMITH. 
 
 FROM SAMUEL CAMFIELD. 
 Catalogue of Books belonging to Captain Thomas Chapman. 
 
 10 Volumes of Rollins Roman History 
 7 Volumes of Rollins Ancient History 
 4 Volumes of Blackstones Commentaries 
 
 He had been a member of the Council of New York, and had estates 
 and property in Great Britain and the West Indies. He had a house 
 in Flatbush, where he entertained the Continental prisoners. His 
 commission was for a corps of Loyalists. After the war his estate on 
 Long Island was confiscated and he went to England. 
 
8O FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 3 Volumes of Cicero s Orations 
 
 2 Volumes of Elements of Criticism 
 
 1 Volume of Religion of Nature 
 
 6 Volumes of Turkish Spy 
 
 7 Volumes of Sternes Sermons 
 
 3 Volumes of Sternes Letters 
 
 2 Volumes of Sternes Journey 
 
 4 Volumes of Gill Bias 
 
 3 Volumes of Beauties of the Stage 
 
 4 Volumes of Thomsons Works 
 
 2 Volumes of History of England in a Series of Letters from a 
 
 Nobleman to his son 
 
 1 Volume of Pomfrets Poems 
 4 Volumes of Addison Works 
 
 3 Volumes of Otways Works 
 
 2 Volumes of Congreves Works 
 9 Volumes of Belles Shakespear 
 
 Dear Sir: Thursday, 3rd December, 1778. 
 
 When last you was in town you give me to understand 
 that our friend Captain Chapman desired you to call on 
 me at any time for any books that I have in my posses 
 sion belonging to him. I now agreeable to promise send 
 you a Catalogue of them, and at same time inform you 
 that should you be inclined to peruse any of them, by let 
 ting me know I will take care to send them to you. I am, 
 Sir, Your very humble servant to command, 
 
 SAMUEL CAMFIELD. 
 
 FROM HENRY VAN DycK. 1 
 
 Mr. Van Dyck s best compliments to Col. Webb, and 
 he is very sorry to find himself so indisposed in conse 
 quence of his tour the other day to Flatbush, that he is 
 afraid he shall not be able to come up there again to- 
 
 1 Henry Van Dyck, of Stratford, Connecticut, who had served as 
 reader in the church at that place, but, because of the closing of the 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 8l 
 
 morrow agreeable to his appointment, and therefore begs 
 Col. Webb will be kind enough to call upon Mrs. Van- 
 home, and see that she and her daughter executes the 
 two Deeds of Release Mr. Van Dyck left prepared at her 
 house when he was there, Mrs. Vanhorne then not being 
 at home; and if Col. Webb has any particular commands 
 for Connecticut by a line his injunctions shall be duly 
 attended, and every service in Mr. Van Dyck s power for 
 Col. Webb with the highest pleasure rendered; and as 
 Mr. Ludlow comes to town every Monday, it will be a 
 good and safe opportunity for Mrs. Vanhorne s papers 
 (to wit), the Two Deeds and Doctor Johnson s receipt 
 which she still has, as well as for Col. Webb to write by. 
 If Mr. Van Dyck possibly can he will nevertheless call 
 upon Col. Webb before he goes. 
 
 NEW YORK, December 5th, 1778. 
 
 \ddressed: Colo. Sam l B. Webb, Esq. Flatbush. 
 
 JOHN JONES TO SARAH 
 Dear Madam* PHILADELPHIA, December nth, 1778. 
 
 A severe indisposition from which I am but just re 
 covering, has prevented an earlier acknowledgment of 
 
 church, wished to go to England and obtain orders as an Episcopal 
 clergyman. Titus Hosmer to Governor Trumbull, February 24, 1779. 
 His memorial to the Governor is in 7 Mass. Hist. Coll., II, 367. His 
 wish was not gratified, and in August he petitioned for permission to 
 remove to Long Island with his family. Ib. 425. 
 
 1 Widow of Richard Bancker, merchant of New York, who died of 
 a putrid fever, April 18, 1775, in his forty-eighth year. He left one 
 child, Elizabeth, who became the wife of Samuel B. Webb in October, 
 1780. Sarah Bancker was of the Duyckinck family, and had a sister 
 Mary. Richard Bancker had three brothers, Evert, Adrian, and William. 
 
82 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 your late favor respecting your Brother, from whom I 
 have also received a letter with a Petition to Congress, 
 the form and style of which are by no means fit to present 
 to that body. I would therefore as a friend recommend 
 him to have one drawn up correctly, and as soon as I 
 receive it you may depend on all the little interest I have 
 to forward his wishes. I had the misfortune to lose sight 
 of Miss Banker by my ignorance of Mr. Low s situation 
 which I assure her I regret very much. I beg my best 
 compliments to her and Miss Duckkink and am Madam, 
 Your most obedient servant, 
 
 JOHN JONES. 
 
 FROM HENRY VAN DYCK. 
 
 December I2th, 1778. 
 My Dear Sir: 
 
 I am very sorry that you did not receive my letter to 
 you of Saturday last by Mr. Sherbrook s servant, as I 
 find you was so good as to send a horse for me as far as 
 the ferry, on the day I fixed upon, when I had the pleasure 
 of seeing you at Flatbush. I was so indisposed in conse 
 quence of my walk that day, that I was unable to perform 
 my engagement, which I do assure you made me very un 
 happy. I intended however to have made you a visit once 
 more before my departure from hence, but what with the 
 badness of the weather and other avocations, I have been 
 denied even that happiness. My parole is out on Mon 
 day next, and therefore I cannot answer your kind expec 
 tations in dining with you tomorrow, as I shall be under 
 the necessity of setting off by land or water to morrow 
 afternoon or Monday morning at farthest. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 83 
 
 Should you have any questions to ask or messages to 
 send you will be good enough to forward them to me as 
 soon as may be in writing, and I will of course answer the 
 questions and deliver the messages as soon as possible. 
 Believe me you cannot make me happier than putting it 
 in my power to render you any services, and nothing 
 could have given me more satisfaction than a further 
 personal interview with you, but that in my present 
 situation I cannot think of, and you yourself I know will 
 readily forgive me. A message sent at any time before 
 twelve to morrow will be in season. As I hear the Com 
 missioners are gone to Amboy in order to negotiate a gen 
 eral exchange, I cannot but hope you will soon have your 
 fondest wishes gratified, which will afford infinite satisfac 
 tion to, My Dear Sir, 
 
 Your most affectn and very hble servt., 
 
 HENRY VAN DYCK. 
 
 P. S. I received the deeds and receipt from Mr. Van- 
 horne. 
 
 FROM JOHN WINSLOW. 
 
 NEW YORK, 16 December, 1778. 
 Sir: 
 
 Least you should not have received a letter which I 
 wrote you two days ago I will write you again to acquaint 
 you that the Commander in Chief is pleased to comply 
 with your request, and has given you permission to send 
 to your brother in Connecticut for hay and oats for the 
 use of your horses. Whenever you write for them and will 
 
84 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 send your letter to me, I will inclose a permit signed by 
 one of the Generals aid de Camp. 
 
 Yours very sincerely 
 
 JOHN WINSLOW, 
 D. Com. Prisoners. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Samuel B. Webb, Prisoner on Parole, Flatbush, 
 Long Island. 
 
 FROM LEWIS PINTARD. 
 Dear Sir: NEW YORK, 22nd December, 1778. 
 
 I received another letter yesterday afternoon from the 
 officers of an old standing, complaining of the distribu 
 tion of the monies in such terms as have made it neces 
 sary for me to postpone the payment, until I can get fur 
 ther directions from Col. Beatty. In the meantime I 
 have concluded to pay all round 12 10. each. This I 
 suppose will not please the gentlemen last come, but there 
 is no help for it, and I hope it will only cause a delay of a 
 few days, and that I shall get such instructions from Col. 
 Beatty as will please all parties. I wrote last night to 
 General Irvine on the subject, and answered the officers 
 letters, and this morning have tried to send said letters 
 the Irish way, to carry them myself, but have yet re 
 ceived no permission. If I do not get it, will send the 
 letters by Mr. Stearns this afternoon. I sent Gen. Irvine s 
 copy of the letter I received and my answer, and hope it 
 will be satisfactory to all who I would wish to please, 
 if possible, but that is difficult. I beg you will send me the 
 former letter wrote me which you forgot to deliver me, as 
 perhaps it may be necessary for me to send out a copy 
 thereof. In great haste, I am Yours affectionately, 
 
 L[EWIS] P[INTARD.] 
 
 Addressed: Col. S. B. Webb, Long Island. 
 
SAMUELBLACHLEYWEBB 85 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 My Dear Brother, 
 
 I have received but one short letter from you since our 
 parting at the good Mrs. Delancy s, which was handed 
 by Messrs. Coffin and Smith, who got well home. I should 
 according to your desire at that time have sent some hay 
 etc. by a returning flag to New York, but [was] made to 
 believe that a new cartel had taken place, which would 
 then soon relieve you from your confinement. I now 
 understand the prospect is quite at an end, and how long 
 you are to remain Heaven only knows. Patience is the 
 only comfort I can give you. I need not repeat my sur 
 prise at your not being allowed to come out after the many 
 applications, but as much as will do has been urged and 
 said, and you have (though they have not done as they 
 could have wished) to thank and remember Col. Campbell 
 and those other gentlemen that have been polite enough 
 to interest themselves in your behalf. I wish it may be 
 ever in our power to acknowledge their civilities. 
 
 I sincerely love gratitude, and am happy when I have 
 it in my power to show it; and I as sensibly feel when it 
 is not returned me; but enough has been said, as I have 
 told you repeatedly in my late letters. Therefore arm 
 and fortify yourself to remain it out, until they make a 
 cartel that will exchange in due rotation. 
 
 Write me as often as you can and when you are permitted 
 to. Should the bearer wait on you, I think it would be 
 best to send out some of your horses or sell them there. 
 I am much surprised to hear of the bills being protested. 
 Let me know the reasons. I hope Mr. Sherbrook takes 
 proper care of those in his hands. He is present, and must 
 
86 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 do the needful. You are sensible they would or did not 
 permit me to come and have em adjusted. 
 
 Though Mr. Loring wrote me "as the Commander in 
 Chief was not present I could not be permitted in, yet let 
 him know my demands and he would see them settled." 
 Upon my word it puzzles me. I cant see through the 
 denial, when Governor Franklin and so many said so much 
 of it, the consequence and real necessity of my personal 
 appearance to settle with them, and what was further 
 would answer for me [my] doing nothing that would be 
 dishonorable. Heretofore they have been extremely polite 
 and genteel. I have ever acknowledged it. Did I ever 
 forfeit that indulgence ? But not five days after I left the 
 Bridge scarcely any one was refused admittance that 
 asked. But 
 
 I bid you adieu. Remember me to our worthy friend 
 Sherbrook, Shaylor, Gov. Franklin etc. and believe me, 
 Yours most sincerely, 
 
 J. w. 
 
 December 31, 1778. 
 
 ELISHA HOPKINS TO MRS. BANCKER. 
 
 Capt. Hopkins presents his most respectful compli 
 ments to Mrs. Banker, is sorry it was not in his power to 
 have the pleasure of delivering her letter in person. Its 
 with pleasure that Capt. H. informs Mrs. Banker, that 
 her friends on Long Island are well, and desire to be re 
 membered in a very particular manner. 
 
 MORRIS[TOWN], Monday Morning, 8 o clock. [1779.] 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 87 
 
 RECEIPTS. 
 
 Received of Mr. Fitts Hue fifteen Guineas for a bay 
 horse, [which] was my property. 
 
 WM. BYGRAVE, Cornet 2 L. D. 1 
 
 FLAT BUSH ON LONG ISLAND, January, 1779. 
 
 Received of Colonel Webb Fifteen Guineas in full for a 
 large bay horse, late the property of Cornet Bygrave of 
 the British Army. 
 
 ROBERT RANDOLPH, 
 
 Lieut. Light Dragoon American Army. 2 
 
 FROM NATHAN FRINK. 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 By the bearer, Mr. Hall, I send you the New Haven 
 paper of January 6th. Your favors by Mr. Van Dyck I 
 am much obliged to you for. Your friend S. H. P. 3 left 
 this day before yesterday, or you might have had a line. 
 We are well at Kpps 4 Col. Lno s compliments, Bush, 
 &c., &c., &c., 
 
 Ever your obedient servant, 
 
 N. FRINK. 
 HORSE NECK, 8 January, 1778 [1779.] 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samll. Webb, Prisoner, New York. Per Mr. Hall. 
 
 1 He was a cornet in the Sixteenth, or Queen s Regiment of Light 
 Dragoons. 
 
 2 Randolph was of Virginia, and was wounded and taken prisoner 
 at Tappan, September 28, 1778. 
 
 3 Samuel Holden Parsons. 
 
 4 Perhaps a word in cipher. 
 
FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JAMES KEENS. l 
 
 NEW YORK, 9th January, 1779. 
 
 Copy of Mr. Loring s letter to me dated yesterday. 
 Mr. Keens be kind enough to provide the best Quarters 
 you can in Flat Bush for Col. [George] Baylor, and let 
 me know it immediately. Gen. [William] Thompson and 
 Colonel [Robert] McGaw will likewise want quarters, and 
 a number of other officers who I expect in daily. 
 
 Yours &c., 
 
 J. LORING. 
 
 Col. Baylor is not arrived. Mr. Loring and myself will 
 be over when Col. Baylor comes to the island. I have 
 provided quarters by order of Mr. L. at Mrs. Carrows in 
 Smith Street, at Major Conway s sister s. All the British 
 and Brunswick officers are gone out, only Capt. Campbell, 
 Captains England, 2 Strangways, Lieutenants Wallace 3 and 
 Frazier and Ensign Frazier, who I believe will be exchanged 
 when some of your officers comes in. I am certain one 
 Captain w T ill be exchanged, if you please to inform Capt. 
 [James] Heron. There is nothing new in town. 
 
 I am, Sir, with much Respect, your very Humble 
 Servant, J. KEENE. 
 
 If you or Capt. Swan could fix a house for Col. Baylor. 
 Addressed: Col. S. B. Webb, Flat Bush, Long Island. 
 
 1 Keens was connected with the office of Commissary of Prisoners. 
 
 2 Richard England, captain in the 47th Regiment. 
 
 3 Two of the name of Wallace held lieutenant s commissions : Hill 
 Wallace, in the I4th Regiment, and John Wallace, in the 64th. The 
 prevalence of Scotch names in the British force makes it impossible 
 to identify the Frasers. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 89 
 
 FROM HENRY REMSEN TO SARAH BANCKER. 
 Dear Madam: MORRISTOWN, i6th January, 1779. 
 
 I am at present in want of a good feather bed, bolster 
 and pair of pillows. Perhaps you may be willing to spare 
 them to me for either hard or soft money, or any other 
 articles that I have by me. I could spare a green rug in 
 part pay, also some brown ell-wide Russia sheeting, a 
 little black real India Taffeta of the best cotton ever im 
 ported. If these should not suit, I expect a few pieces 
 fashionable silks soon. Please inform me by a line if you 
 can spare the articles I want, and what the price is in hard 
 money, or if you chuse any of the goods mentioned, or 
 some very good Scotch snuff in bladders. 
 
 I could have purchased much bedding in this town, but 
 find them very small, and nothing like the New York beds. 
 I left two at New York and another has been fairly wore 
 out while the army lay here. 
 
 Henry will deliver you this and forward your answer. 
 Mrs. Remsen joins me in respectful compliments to your 
 self, Miss Bancker, Miss Polly, 1 and to Miss Neilson 2 
 and family. 
 
 I am respectfully, Dear Madam, 
 
 Your most obedient servant, 
 
 HENRY REMSEN. 
 
 FROM ELIHU HALL. 
 Dear Sir* NEW YORK, January 2ist, 1779. 
 
 I have found a line from Jacob Sebor, which have in 
 closed to your observation. I find he wants a set of shoe 
 
 1 Miss Mary Duyckinck. 
 
 2 Daughter of William Neilson of Pluckemin. 
 
9O FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 and knee buckles. Pray send word by your man who I 
 suppose will bring your horse tomorrow 10 o clock. Pray 
 remember my best respects to Mr. Sherbrook and Lady, 
 and to our mutual friend Natty. 1 
 Wishing you a speedy exchangement. 
 
 Good by. 
 
 ELIHU HALL.* 
 
 CAMFIELD S AccouNT. 3 
 
 Sundry expences paid for Coll. Webb as per Memoran 
 dum, vizt. 
 
 1778. December 23. To Cash paid Slidell, Tallow Chand 
 
 ler, for a Box Mould Candles, wt. 38 @ 5/ & 
 Box 6/ 9. 1 6. o 
 
 To Cash paid his servant Richard. 2. 6. o 
 
 12. 2. o 
 
 1779. January 22. To Cash paid Joseph Allicock 
 
 for sundrys 4. 12. o 
 
 23. To Cash paid Mr. Hall to purchase 
 
 Shoe and Knee Buckles for Mr. Cebra 4 I. 17. 4 
 
 To ditto to Mr. Hall for one night Horse- 
 keeping o. 10. o 2. 7. 4 
 
 To Cash paid Mr. Sharp for 5 Gallons Ma 
 deira Wine delivered Richard the 2ist. 
 Instant. 5. o. o 
 
 24. 1.4 
 
 N. B. The inclosed Paper that was to have been given 
 to Mr. Hall he saw, and said that there was no Necessity 
 for it, as he cou d take the Horse out without it. 
 
 1 Nathaniel Ramsay (?), who was a prisoner on Long Island. 
 
 2 A sergeant in Captain Abel Pettibone s company, Wolcott s Bri 
 gade of Connecticut Militia. 
 
 3 Endorsed "Saml. Camfields Account of Money paid out, New 
 York." 4 Sebor. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB QI 
 
 FROM JACOB SEBOR. 
 Dr. Colonel; 
 
 Have only one moment s time by Mr. Townly to beg 
 the favor of you to send me word by the first opportunity, 
 whether the bills I left with Mr. Sherbrooke are accepted 
 or protested. If accepted and paid, I wish you to receive 
 the money, as per the order I sent you by Mr. Clark; also 
 if you have received the money for the note of General 
 F[rankli]n. In haste, wishing your speedy exchange, 
 I remain your sincere friend, 
 
 JACOB SEBOR. 
 
 P. S. Our Company affairs go on very well. 
 Jany. 26, 1779^ 
 
 FROM NATHANAEL GREENE. 
 
 Tuesday Evening [1779?] 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have consulted Mrs. Greene respecting the day of her 
 departure. She fixes upon Sunday; and thinks herself 
 exceeding happy to have the honor to be escorted by so 
 polite and agreeable a gallant. She begs her compliments 
 to Miss Banker, and to hers you will please add mine. 
 
 Yours aff. 
 
 N. GREENE. 
 
 1 Webb was released on parole, to accompany Baylor to Philadel 
 phia on the question of an exchange of prisoners. Webb, Correspond 
 ence and Journals, II, 153. 
 
92 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM S. NicoLL. 1 
 
 [NEW YORK, February, 1779.] 
 
 Col. Webb will oblige S. Nicoll by remembering Compli 
 ments to Messrs. [Matthew] Clarkson, Beresford, [James] 
 Segrove, Troop, [Morgan] Lewis, and to others of his old 
 acquaintance, which the Colonel may accidentally meet 
 with. 
 
 That you may be able to bring about a general exchange, 
 and that the happiest moments of your past life may be 
 dull in comparison of the most anxious of those you have 
 yet to experience, is the sincere wish of your friend and 
 obedient Servant, 
 
 S. N. 
 
 FROM GEORGE BAYLOR. 
 
 My Dear Webb : [NEW YoRK > Februa T, 779J 
 
 It is as we wish. You are to go to Philadelphia. Let 
 me take you by the hand tomorrow. 
 
 Yours in great haste, 
 
 G. BAYLOR. 
 The dinner is a cooling. 
 
 4 o clock P. M. 
 
 RECEIPT FOR FLOUR. 
 
 NEW YORK, February 3, 1779. 
 
 Received of John Beatty, Esq., Commissary General of 
 Prisoners for the United States of America, by the hands 
 of L. Pintard, One Barrel Flour. Weight I. 3. 2. 
 
 1 Doctor S. Nicoll, then at New York. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 93 
 
 Copy of a receipt given for the above Barrel Flour by 
 
 Col. S. B. Webb. 
 
 JOHN FINTARD. 
 
 BILL FOR WINE. 
 
 r* 1 c i 13 \\7 uu NEW YORK, 3rd February, 1779. 
 
 Col. Samuel B. Webb, 
 
 Bought of Richard Sharp. 
 
 I Quarter Cask Madeira Wine 25. o. o 
 
 (N. B. Cask to be returned when empty.) 
 Received, New York, the 5th February, 1779, the within 
 contents from Mr. Sherbrooke. 
 
 RICHARD SHARPE, JUNIOR. 
 
 FROM THOMAS MUMFORD. 
 Dear Sir: HARTFORD, 4th February, 1779. 
 
 I have promised myself the pleasure of seeing you re 
 turn home for some time. The endeavors of your friends 
 have not succeeded (for your exchange) agreeable to my 
 hope and expectation. However, the present prospect 
 now bids fair to have you exchanged for one of the British 
 Colonels captured in a packet from New York to England, 
 and they released in Spain, and receipt given for them 
 there by the British Consul, to be accounted for in America. 1 
 Your brother I conclude will inform you the particulars, 
 the bearer, Capt. Bulkley, with Col. Ely, having just re 
 ceived intelligence that they are remanded as prisoners 
 to New York, return agreeable to their paroles on first 
 notice. This I trust will entitle them to the confidence 
 
 Webb, Correspondence and Journals, II, 148 n. 
 
94 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 of the British Commander-in-Chief at New York, and I 
 make no doubt they will be treated agreeable to their 
 merit. Ensign Mumford would have accompanied them, 
 but has had the good fortune to be exchanged at Newport. 
 As you will see by Gen. Prescott s letter to Gen. Sullivan, 
 which Capt. Bulkley carries with him, he will now imme 
 diately join your regiment to which he belongs. I flatter 
 myself you will soon be exchanged and command them 
 again. This I am sure must give the whole regiment very 
 sensible pleasure. I am happy to give some assistance to 
 our officers now prisoners with you, by distributing a few 
 Guineas which I hope will administer relief and comfort. 
 
 I am lately deprived of my greatest temporal enjoyment. 
 My good Mrs. Mumford is no more. She departed this 
 transitory Life about two months since. Your young 
 ensign is sensibly affected by this irreparable loss of an 
 affectionate tender parent. May this alarming warning 
 stimulate us all to be likewise ready. 
 
 My cordial wishes salute you, and am with Real Esteem 
 and regard, Dear Sir, Your sincere and affectionate 
 
 THOS. MUMFORD. 
 
 Addressed: To Colo. Samuel B. Webb, at or near New York. Per 
 Capt. Bulkley. 
 
 FROM JOHN CHESTER. 
 My Dear Sir: WETHERSFIELD, February 6th, 1779. 
 
 I have again with much difficulty put off the tryal of 
 my Johnson cause, solely for the want of your evidence 
 in the matter. 1 There is soon to be another session of the 
 Court, at which my adversary will no doubt be able to 
 
 1 Webb, Correspondence and Journals, II, 136, 156. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 95 
 
 bring on the tryal, whether I will or not. Your deposi 
 tion is therefore of amazing consequence to me. I have 
 obtained a flagg of Governor Trumbull to go into N. 
 York, on purpose to see you on this business; but am 
 since informed that it is altogether improbable that I can 
 be admitted on this score. I must therefore desire you 
 (if you can obtain permission) to meet me just without 
 the Lines, for this very interesting purpose (to me), the 
 obtaining of your deposition in the case. If this favor 
 may be granted I wish to know the time and place where 
 I am to meet you, and as early as is convenient. Your 
 answer will greatly oblige, My Dear Sir, Your affec 
 tionate friend and very Humble Servant, 
 
 JOHN CHESTER.. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Samuel B. Webb, Flat Bush. Per favor Capt. 
 Bulkley. 
 
 BILL. 
 
 NEW YORK, February 10, 1779. 
 Colonel Webb 
 
 Bought of Berry & Rogers 
 
 Steel hiked sword 7 9. 4 
 
 Sword knot I 4- ~ 
 
 2 pr. silk stockings 3 14. 8 
 
 Sword belt I 4. - 
 
 Sword Hook 16. - 
 
 Stick i 4- 
 
 3 Ratan 6/ 18. o 
 
 Trunk I. 4. o 
 
 Stick pomatum 2 - ~~ 
 
 2 Cane strings 12. 
 
 Currency 18 70 
 Rec d payment in full 
 
 BERRY & ROGERS. 
 
96 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 FROM NATHAN FRINK. 
 
 HORSE NECK, I2th February, 1779. 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 Your brother Jos. desired me to procure for the pur 
 pose of sending by a flag for your use fifteen or twenty 
 bundles of hay and forty bushels of oats. I have agreed 
 for them both, which will be ready this Saturday coming. 
 Have also procured a vessel to transport them and ac 
 quainted your brother by a letter. By the next post I 
 expect the Governor s permission. With your brother s 
 instructions they will be forwarded as fast as possible. 
 By perusing your brother s letters by Mr. Townly I ob 
 serve no mention to have been made of your exchange 
 proposed by your worthy brother-in-law, Mr. Barrell, 
 who wrote His Excellency General Washington request 
 ing your exchange for a gentleman of the British Army, 
 who was taken in one of the outward bound packets from 
 New York and carried into some foreign port by a pri 
 vateer belonging to Mr. Barrell & Co. The captain of 
 the privateer delivered them (I think six in number, of 
 different ranks) to one of the British Ambassadors at a 
 foreign court, and took his receipt for them as exchange 
 able in America, which receipt has come to hand, and 
 forwarded to His Excellency General Washington. For 
 that purpose your brother did me the liberty to peruse 
 Mr. Barrell s letter to him. From this circumstance I 
 have taken the freedom (earlier than your brother may 
 have an opportunity) to acquaint you of the prospect of 
 your exchange. 
 
 I am, sir, with every respect, your Obedient Servant, 
 
 N. FRINK. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 97 
 
 FROM ROYAL FLINT. 
 
 CAMP RARITON, February 18, 1779. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I inclose you a copy of the deposition 1 you requested. 
 Col. Wadsworth set off last Tuesday morning for Con 
 necticut. 
 
 I am, Dear Sir, with esteem, Your most obedient servant, 
 
 ROYAL FLINT. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam l B Webb, at General Arnold s, Philadelphia. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM S. LIVINGSTON. 
 
 HEAD QUARTERS, S February 2Oth, 1779. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 I followed you from Hackensack to about four miles 
 beyond Elizabeth Town, and unfortunately took the 
 wrong road, or should have overtaken you. I supposed 
 you would have gone on to Brunswick instead of going 
 to Head Quarters. As your stay will be short, I wish to 
 have the pleasure of hearing from you respecting your 
 return. I intend going to Rhode Island very soon, and 
 want much to see you before I set out. Your brother is 
 now in New York expecting to effect your exchange. 
 Accept my best wishes for your success, and believe me, 
 Your most affectionate Friend, 
 
 WILLIAM S. LIVINGSTON. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Samuel B. Webb, at Philadelphia. Favored 
 by Mr. Temple. 
 
 1 Webb has endorsed it "my deposition." It probably related to 
 Colonel John Chester s case. 
 
 2 Middlebrook. 
 
98 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 JACOBUS VAN ZANDT 1 TO MRS. BANCKER. 
 
 MORRISTOWN, March ist, 1779. 
 Dear Madam: 
 
 Immediately on my return to Morris Town I made it 
 my business to apply to Gov. Livingston, 2 to grant you 
 the indulgence with his pass to go to New York, or even 
 as far as Mrs. Bancker s on Staten Island, on business of 
 utmost consequence to you, and pointed out to him the 
 necessity of such request. His answer was, he was de 
 termined not to grant any more passes to any person 
 whatever, and informed me the same time that as Gen. 
 Washington was near you, that you might apply to him 
 for such indulgence; since several persons have applied 
 to the Governor for passes which have since refused. 
 
 Pray, Madam, is there not one Maj. Van Zandt and 
 Miss Van Zandt still alive with you or in your naibour- 
 hood? (If so) we shall be glad to hear from them, and 
 that their Mamma expects them home every moment. 
 Mrs. Van Zandt joins me in best compliments to you, 
 Miss Bancker, Miss Duyckinck, and to our friends Mr. 
 and Miss Neilson. I remain, Dear Madam, Your most 
 Humble Servant, 
 
 JACOBUS VAN ZANDT. 
 
 Addressed: Mrs. [Sarah] Bancker, Rariton To the care of William 
 Neilson at Pluckmin. 
 
 1 Jacobus Van Zandt was of the patriotic party in New York, and 
 was chosen to attend the Provincial Congress in 1775. He was a 
 merchant, engaged in a general importing business, with a place on 
 Rotten Row, near the Coffee House. He died in 1789, leaving one 
 daughter, Catharine, and two sons, Viner and James. No Major of 
 the name is noted in the army list. 
 
 2 William Livingston. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 99 
 
 FROM JAMES HERON. 
 
 CAMP [RARITON], March 2, 1779. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 Here am I with a cursed little caitif of a horse. It was 
 with the utmost difficulty I got him to hobble this length. 
 However I ve rested him a day, and now am setting off 
 to try him a second time. I shall be happy to receive a 
 line from you at Danbury, where I expect to be in a few 
 days. This will be handed to you by Col. Butler, whom 
 I beg leave to introduce to you as my particular friend. 
 You ll find him to be all the man I ve often described to 
 you. I am, Dear Webb, 
 
 Your affectionate 
 
 HERON. 
 
 Addressed: To Col. Samuel B. Webb, at General [Benedict] Arnold s, 
 Philadelphia. 
 
 FROM JOHN SwAN. 1 
 
 You have not complied with your word, my dear Colonel. 
 In return I am resolved to be better than mine. You have 
 not had time it seems to write whether you are well or 
 ill, happy or otherwise. You know by experience my 
 situation affords a few moments to inquire after my friends. 
 As such I embrace this opportunity to ask how you are, 
 how you have been, how you have passed your time, &c. 
 We go on in the old way. The weather being remarkably 
 fine, walking with the fair sex is a principle amusement. 
 Last night I sat an hour with one of them, who lives near 
 
 1 Captain in the jd Regiment of Continental Dragoons, and was 
 taken prisoner at Tappan, September 28, 1778. He came from 
 Maryland. 
 
IOO FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 the center of this city. As usual she was chatty and 
 agreeable, counting the days of your absence and the 
 hours before you return. I did not then know of this 
 opportunity, or would have had messages, compliments, 
 &c. The flour you was to send me is not yet come to 
 hand. 
 
 Mrs. Bamb ridge, who I was with last evening, begs 
 you will apply to General Washington for a passport to 
 visit her children and friends in the Jersey. She says you 
 will confer a lasting obligation on her by obtaining the 
 desired permission. 
 
 We have heard nothing of the exchange. I am afraid 
 you have not succeeded. If so, you will be the bearer of 
 the first letters after the receipt of this. Adieu. God 
 bless you. Dont let me see your face again in Flat Bush. 
 
 JOHN SWAN. 
 
 March 3, 1779. 
 
 PIETY PARLOUR, [FLAT-BUSH.] 
 
 On the outside: Col. Beatty will forward this by some 
 safe hand soon, which will oblige his humble servant, 
 
 JOHN SWAN. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, on Parole, at Philadelphia. 
 "Ex[amine]d. J. Keens." 
 
 A COMMERCIAL VENTURE. 
 
 We the subscribers do mutually empower Col. Samuel 
 B. Webb to make application in our names to such of the 
 persons mentioned in a list annexed or any others which 
 he may think proper, in order to a purchase of such goods 
 as he, or the agent he may appoint, shall think most 
 likely to prove advantageous to the concern. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 101 
 
 And we hereby mutually bind ourselves to each other 
 to share the profit or loss which may arise or be incurred 
 by the transaction. Should Col. Webb think it advisable 
 to send a vessel to New London or elsewhere, we authorize 
 to interest us to the amount of three Hundred pounds 
 sterling each, to be on our joint wish as above. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA, 3rd March, 1779. 
 
 WILLIAM CONSTABLE, for self and JAMES SEAGROVE two shares. 
 
 JAMES & ALEXANDER STEWART, for two shares. 
 
 ALEXANDER ROBERTSON and Co. for one share. 
 
 ROBERT TOTTEN. 
 
 THOMSON & SELBY, for one share. 
 
 SAML. B. WEBB & Co. for two shares. 
 
 JOHN RAMSEY. 
 
 SAMUEL FRANKLIN. 
 
 WALTER FRANKLIN. 
 
 JAMES PARSONS. 
 
 THOMAS PEARSALL, Merchant. 
 
 THOMAS PEARSALL, Watchmaker. 
 
 THOMAS MCFARRAN. 
 
 DANIEL McCoRMicK. 
 
 ROBERT GAULT. 
 
 SMITH RAMADGE. 
 
 k EDMUND SEAMAN. 
 
 WM. CONSTABLE & J. SEAGROVE, RAMADGE & McCoRMicK. 
 
 ROBERT MINER [or Muir]. 
 
 ROBERT TOTTEN, 
 
 J. &. A. STEWART, 
 
 JOHN THOMPSON & MR. SELBY, 
 
 LEE, Enquire if he is come from 
 
 Europe. 
 
 JOSEPH HALLET. 
 WILLIAM MAXWELL, Tobacconist. 
 
 [WILLIAM MAXWELL 
 
 ALEXANDER ROBINSON & Co., \ 
 
 [SMITH RAMADGE 
 
 JOHN RAMSEY, ROBERT MERCER, WILLIAM LOWTHER. 
 
 GROVE BEND, WILLIAM MAXWELL 
 
 Endorsed: Agreement for the purchase of goods in New York. 
 
102 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM MRS. DELANCEY. 
 
 Mrs. DeLancey s Compliments to Col. Webb; tho she 
 has not the pleasure of his acquaintance, has taken the 
 liberty of sending a letter to his care for Miss Walton 1 at 
 N. York. Major Clarkson was so obliging as to send 
 Mrs. De Lancey word that Col. Webb was going to New 
 York, and would carry any letters she should send to him. 
 She has sent her letters open; and begs after the Col. has 
 perused them, to satisfy himself they contain nothing of 
 a political nature, he will be so good as to seal them up 
 and deliver them to Miss Walton, and Mrs. Delancey 
 will think herself much obliged to him. 
 
 March the 4th, 1779. 
 [PHILADELPHIA.] 
 
 FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. 
 
 HARTFORD, March 6, 1779. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 I have the pleasure to inform you that your friends are 
 well. Jack will soon be with you and tell you everything 
 that concerns you in this quarter. 
 
 Mrs. Wadsworth troubles you with a little memorandum 
 for seeds to which I have added a shaving apparatus. If 
 it is quite convenient when you go to New York send 
 them, and not otherwise. 
 
 I have no news; everything is as usual here. Are like 
 to effect an exchange. Not a line from you since I saw 
 you. I hope you have received my letters of the 26th 
 
 1 Daughter of William Walton, of St. George s (now Franklin) 
 Square, New York, who had married a daughter of James De Lancey. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 103 
 
 ultimo. Farewell, may your hopes be fulfilled respect 
 ing your exchange. Mrs. Wadsworth and sisters join me 
 in respectful compliments. 
 
 Yours, 
 
 JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. 
 
 Addressed: To Col. Sam. B. Webb, Philadelphia. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM BLODGET. * 
 
 [RARITON,] 15 March, 1779. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 The letter which accompanies this contains everything 
 you could wish in regard to the invitation of Miss Bancker 
 and Miss Vanzandt 2 to the hop tomorrow evening. I 
 have mentioned that we will be with them by 12 or i 
 o clock tomorrow, and expect they will be in readiness. 
 You can however write to Miss Bancker, if you think it 
 necessary. It will not be amiss to send your servant off 
 immediately, that we may have an answer tonight. 
 I am, Dear Sir, Your humble servant, 
 
 WILLIAM BLODGET. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Sam l B. Webb, at Colo. Biddle s Quarters, 
 Camp. 
 
 FROM CATHERINE W. LIVINGSTON. 
 
 Waving my not having the pleasure of a personal ac 
 quaintance with Col. Webb, flatter myself he will excuse 
 
 1 Of Rhode Island, and for a time aide de camp of General Greene. 
 
 2 Catherine, daughter of Jacobus Van Zandt. 
 
104 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 the freedom of inclosing to his care a letter to my Uncle 
 Clarkson; as I am not certain of your taking Morris 
 County in your route, and should I send it to Elizabeth, 
 it may not come opportunely. 
 
 In presenting an affectionate remembrance of me to 
 my friends on Long Island, you will oblige their and your 
 well wisher, 
 
 CATHERINE W. LIVINGSTON. 1 
 
 PERSIPPINEY, I5th March, 1779. 
 
 If Col. Webb can conveniently favor Mrs. Livingston 
 and family with a visit before he returns to Long Island, 
 will make them happy. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Webb, Camp, Rariton. Dr. Draper. 
 
 FROM OTHO H. WiLLiAMS. 2 
 
 Williams begs the particular favor of his friend Webb 
 to present his best compliments to Swan, Ramsey, and 
 his other very worthy fellow soldiers in captivity. Mrs. 
 Ramsey will please accept Williams most respectful com 
 pliments. Johnny Crook 3 is humble servant to his dear 
 female friends in Flat Bush. General Thompson and 
 Col. Magaw are old, intimate, and very valuable friends 
 
 1 Daughter of William Livingston, Governor of New Jersey. 
 
 2 Otho Holland Williams, of Maryland, who was wounded and 
 captured at Fort Washington, and suffered much for fifteen months, 
 at the end of which time he was exchanged. He was Greene s adjutant- 
 general in the Southern campaign and led the Light Corps that served 
 as a rear guard. 
 
 3 A nickname for himself, possibly. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB IO5 
 
 to Williams. His best wishes attend them and all that 
 may be comprehended in that class. 
 
 Col. Webb will add very considerably to the proofs of 
 his friendship for Williams, if he will delicately mention 
 his delicate esteem for M[ari]a. 
 
 Williams wishes Webb an agreeable passage and speedy 
 return. 
 
 Saturday, 2Oth March, 1779. 
 
 To B. MCKENZIE. 
 
 Sir: 
 
 I am just returned from the country to a state of cap 
 tivity, which induces me to request you will pay the note 
 of hand given by you to my brother for supplies in similar 
 circumstances. I should not in any other situation make 
 a second application for the money, but my long imprison 
 ment, my great expense, and a knowledge of your going 
 abroad, urges me to it. Your order on your brother for 
 the amount no doubt is good, but that cannot at present 
 answer my immediate demands. Be kind enough to 
 attribute the subject of this letter to my situation only, 
 and believe me with 
 
 All personal respect, 
 
 Your most humble servant, 
 
 SAMUEL B. WEBB. 
 
 NEW YORK, 24th March, 1779. 
 
IO6 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JOHN WILEY. 
 
 ELIZABETH TOWN, 30 March, 1779. 
 Sir: 
 
 Please to pay Joseph Webb, Esq., or order, whatever 
 sum you can conveniently spare on my account, and 
 you ll oblige your very humble servant, 
 
 JOHN WILEY. 
 
 John Livingston, Esq., 1 
 
 Flatbush, Long Island, or New York. 
 
 Capt. Wiley is in distress, and begs the particular 
 attention of his friend Mr. Livingston. Every little will 
 help him. I think he said the felts 2 was sold that you are 
 jointly concerned in. 3 
 
 FROM NATHANIEL RAMSEY. 
 Sir: 
 
 Has the flag arrived with your brother yet? Has Sir 
 Harry 4 given any answer to the letter which went from 
 here? Have you applied for your Parole? 
 
 I send by my servants the two pamphlets to Mr. Pin- 
 tard which you mentioned to me. Do you think it prob 
 able that I could purchase a quarter cask of good Madeira, 
 
 1 One of the name was a member of the Social Club in New York, 
 which passed its evenings at Fraunces in the winter, and at Kips Bay 
 in the summer. It was dispersed at the opening of the Revolution. 
 
 2 A doubtful word, perhaps by intention to cover some trading 
 matter. 
 
 3 The postscript is by another hand that of Joseph Webb. 
 
 4 Sir Henry Clinton. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 or a gross of good Port, in New York for a 200 dollar loan 
 office certificate? When shall we see you here? 
 I am your Humble Servant, 
 
 NATHANIEL RAMSEY. 1 
 Last day of March, [1779.] 
 
 FROM COLONEL AXTELL. 
 
 Colonel Axtell s compliments to Colonel Webb. Will 
 be much obliged to him for the senior officers, name of 
 each, and District where the prisoners on parole are 
 cantooned. 
 
 FLAT BUSH, April i6th, 1779. 
 
 FROM OTHO H. WILLIAMS. 
 
 Williams presents his best compliments to his friend 
 Webb, and assures him he has not forgot his special com 
 mands respecting the subject on the North Branch. As a 
 faithful agent Wms. thinks it his duty to inform his friend 
 that though he must expect competitors; he has his advo 
 cates, and the event (at least to a Deputy) appears dubi 
 ous. Much happiness attend you. My love to Johnny 
 Crooks friends. Adieu. 
 
 April 2oth, 1779. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel Webb, Long Island. 
 
 1 Of Smallwood s Maryland Regiment, who had been taken prisoner 
 at Monmouth, June 28, 1778. He held the rank of lieutenant colonel. 
 Exchanged in December, 1780, he retired from the service at the end 
 of the year. 
 
IO8 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM WILLIAM THOMPSON. 1 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 I would have gone to Flat Bush to have seen you this 
 morning, but am disappointed in getting a horse. 
 
 I have sent some letters which were intended to go by 
 Captain Swan to Philadelphia, but as I am told he will not 
 be permitted, must beg you to forward them by the first 
 flag to Elizabeth Town. 
 
 I am sorry Swan is not allowed to proceed, as I am cer 
 tain the supply of cash will neither be so large, nor will it 
 arrive so soon without a person sent on purpose for it. 
 
 I thank you for all the good news and your care in pro 
 curing such intelligence, and am, Dear Sir, yours very 
 sincerely, 
 
 WILLIAM THOMPSON. 
 Sheriff s, Tuesday Morning. 
 [GRAVESEND, April, 1779.] 
 
 Addressed: To Colonel Webb, Flatbush. 
 
 TWELVE S LETTER. 2 
 
 This will be handed you by a Friend, with another piece 
 of paper of directions, and says a safe place for you to 
 immediately send the following things in a portmanteau 
 well locked. They ll arrive safe beyond a doubt, and I 
 think I am confident the affair is well contrived. You 
 
 1 Brigadier General Thompson, who had served in the Canada 
 expedition and suffered capture in the disastrous attack upon Trois 
 Rivieres. 
 
 This is the endorsement. The letter is addressed merely to 
 "Twelve." It may be connected with the agreement on trade made 
 in March, p. 100, supra. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 may take a friend to share profit or loss. My friend here 
 and myself expect half - - you and your friend half. I 
 should write you by the Dittonary [dictionary], but have 
 not got it here. The sooner you improve this opportunity, 
 the sooner we ll let you know of the success so as to im 
 prove another. I write you soon again, but before I write 
 I expect to receive the portmanteau or trunk as you may 
 judge best. The half of the money I ll be accountable for 
 as you can get. Adieu. 
 
 I should think the following things: i ps. Crimson Silk 
 Gauze; I ps. green good silk gauzes. Mitinett gauze. 
 Catgut. White and black Persian fasnetts. Black rib 
 bons and others. Black feathers and white. Pattinett 
 gauze. 2 or 3 ps. Linnen will do well. 
 
 I wish you to put in the baggage for my friend, 
 A sadle Cloth like yours, a red Moroco Razor case like 
 yours, 3 Silver Epoletts, 3 doz. cards, and when convenient 
 opportunity offers to the same place, a Hamper [of] Porter. 
 
 DlCTONARY 
 
 I think you may haste the affair and make much. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 This will be handed you by Capt. Rogers, a prisoner now 
 on his parole to New York, who says he ll deliver it with 
 his own hands. I have sent by him American newspapers 
 which may amuse you. I must own after parting with 
 you and Mr. Winslow and really on the passage, I reflected 
 how chagrined all your friends would be to see me without 
 you; in short how to account for it I am at a loss; but I 
 cannot but think the general exchange will take immediate 
 
IIO FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 place. Should it, or should it not, write me by every oppor 
 tunity. I need not tell you how disappointed the family 
 were that you did not come. We had rather a tedious 
 passage to Norwalk, but Mr. Apthorp and his lady, and 
 all of us, made out as well as could possibly be expected, 
 and all of us treated with much politeness and civility. 
 Mr. Apthorp bought him a horse at Norwalk, has spent 
 two days in Wethersfield, and went from here early on 
 yesterday morning for Boston. I have received a number 
 of letters from our Boston friends who are well and in 
 high expectation of seeing of you. Tell friends B. and R. 1 
 that I am much disappointed about the dittos omitted 
 sending me that I first picked out, which is quite 
 unfortunate. 
 
 Our aged Grandmother was buried while I was in York. 
 I wish you would let Richard buy me some late and early 
 Colliflower seed, which I forgot, and send me per the first 
 opportunity. Remember me to Mrs. Abbot Sutherland, 
 Capt. Frazer and your friends. Adieu my dear friend and 
 brother, 
 
 JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD April 23, 1779. 
 
 The bearer, Capt. Rogers, is on parole and in hopes at 
 least to convince Mr. [ ] and Burton that they are 
 
 willing to exchange on this side; particulars I refer to him 
 for. There was brought into Boston last week 2 Field 
 Officers prisoners, 24 Commissions officers, British, &c., 
 &c., bound to Georgia. I say this, that I could get one of 
 the Field Officers for you, provided Sir Henry Clinton will 
 consent; but I confess I think we have asked as much as 
 
 Berry and Rogers. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB III 
 
 we can, and I hope you ll put on patience and make the 
 best of it. 
 
 We dined upon a most lovely Salmon. I wish you had 
 it. Rivington or Gain will be much obliged to you to 
 exchange their papers for these from time to time. 
 
 Send me a pocketbook, best for 8 dollars. 
 
 2 pair common temple spectacles for persons at 53. 
 
 FROM AQUILA GILES. 1 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 You \vill much oblige me by asking Berry and Rogers if 
 their Spy glasses and Pistoles are come in. Pray are you 
 like to get out, or do they mean to use you as they have 
 heretofore. I m with every sentiment of esteem, Dear 
 Colonel, Yours sincerely, 
 
 A. GILES. 
 FLAT BUSH, Thursday morning, [April, 1779.] 
 
 This day I understand Magaw is to [be] join d in the 
 bands of Hymen. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. S. B. Webb, N. York. 
 
 FROM JAMES KEENS. 
 
 NEW YORK, 27th April, 1779. 
 Sir: 
 
 Mr. Loring was just gone out when Richard gave me 
 your letter. I left it on his table so as he may see it when 
 
 1 Of Maryland, and aide de camp to General St. Clair. When he 
 was captured I have not learned, but he remained a prisoner until 
 November, 1780. He served to the end of the war. 
 
112 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 he dresses for dinner, as there is a deal of company to 
 dine with him this day. I am sorry I cannot see him, so 
 as he might answer your letter by Richard, but you may 
 depend upon it I ll see him in the morning before I leave 
 town. 
 
 Mr. Loring cannot give you any satisfactory account 
 concerning you being exchanged for one of the officers 
 taken in the Eagle Packet. As soon as he can with any 
 propriety he ll let you know. Mr. L[oring] is always 
 ready to serve you; proper opportunity must be observed. 
 I assure you I am never happier than when I can do you 
 any service. 
 
 I am sir your most Obedient Humble Servant, 
 
 JAMES KEENS. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel S. B. Webb, Flat Bush. 
 
 FROM JAMES KEENS. 
 Sir: 
 
 I am going to Eliz. Town tomorrow morning early 
 with Generals Thompson and Waterbury, Col. McGaw, 
 &c., &c. 
 
 I wish to know if you intend sending Mrs. Brazier the 
 sugar and Howe s acid according a former promise. I am 
 doubtful your approbation will not reach me in time, so 
 I ll at hazard take a small loaf of sugar and 2 or 3 bottles 
 of acid, and place it to your account. 
 
 I am sir Your most obedient humble servant, 
 
 J. KEENS. 
 NEW YORK, 2nd [May, 1779.] 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Webb, Flat Bush. 
 
SAMUEL BLACK LEY WEBB 
 
 FROM RICHARD SWANWICK. 
 
 NEW YORK, 5 May, 1779. 
 Sir: 
 
 I am in hopes by means of the obliging letters given to 
 me when I last saw you to see my dear wife here; and it 
 will further add to the kind obligation, if you press the 
 matter upon any of your brother officers going out, that 
 by means of united and generous interest I may obtain 
 the much wished for sight of my Dear Wife. I have 
 obtained for you and Mr. Willing two hampers of the best 
 London Porter, which will be delivered to the bearer of 
 the inclosed note whenever called for. I am seeking some 
 other necessary things for you and Mr. Willing, of which 
 I shall ere long inform you. 
 
 Services done to my unhappy wife cannot fail to engage 
 my warmest gratitude, and hence it is that I wish for 
 opportunity to render any acceptable services to you, or 
 any of your brother officers, to whom I beg my compliments, 
 being very respectfully, Sir, Your most obedient Very 
 humble servant, 
 
 RICHARD SWANWICK. 
 
 I Hamper for Colonel Webb 
 
 I Do. for Capt. Willing 
 
 Please to tell Capt. Willing to send to Peter Lenox 
 Tavern near the ship yards for two jars of excellent pickled 
 oysters there for him. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Webb, Flat Bush. 
 
114 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 FLAT BUSH, nth May, 1779. 
 My Dear Colonel: 
 
 Should you not succeed in bringing about a partial 
 exchange for what officers we have of the British for an 
 equal number of ours, prisoners on Long Island, pray send 
 in officers of equal rank with Riley, Hopkins and myself, 
 that we may go out on Parole. Capt. Goodale : and Mr. 
 Tanner 2 will esteem it a very great favor done them if you 
 can send in two gentlemen that they may go out on Parole. 
 Should you be so unfortunate as not to get yourself ex 
 changed, nor be able to send in an officer for me, and you 
 be under the disagreeable necessity of returning to your 
 captivity, pray be so kind as to purchase a horse for me 
 and bring in with you, that I may be better able to spend 
 the remaining part of my captivity in as agreable a manner 
 as possible. I am too sensible you know our disagreeable 
 situation, and am sure you will do everything in your 
 power to relieve us. Pray remember me to all friends. 
 God bless you and send you all you wish and all you 
 desire. 
 
 I am with affection and esteem your Most Obedient 
 Servant, 
 
 EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam ll B. Webb, at Flat Bush. 
 
 1 Nathan Goodale, of Massachusetts, captain in the 5th Regiment, 
 wounded and taken prisoner at King s Bridge, August 30, 1778. He 
 was not exchanged until October, 1780. 
 
 2 Thomas Tanner, second lieutenant in Bradley s Connecticut 
 Battalion, taken prisoner at Fort Washington in November, 1776. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 FROM WILLIAM THOMPSON. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 The matter is at last fixed for our going out on Thursday 
 morning. Come to town as soon as possible. Our Paroles 
 to be till called for or exchanged. 
 
 Send Colonel Magaw s letter to him without loss of 
 time, as I suppose he will take out Mrs. Magaw, and will 
 have little time to prepare. My best compliments to 
 my friends at Flat Bush, and am, Dear sir, yours very 
 sincerely, 
 
 WILLIAM THOMPSON. 
 
 Tuesday Evening, [NEW YORK, May 12, 1779.] 
 Addressed: To Colo. Samuel Webb, Flat Bush. 
 
 FROM JOSHUA LORING. 
 
 NEW YORK, May I2th, 1779. 
 Sir: 
 
 It gives me great pleasure to inform you that the Com 
 mander in Chief has consented to your going home on 
 your Parole, and to remain till called for. You have there 
 fore permission to come to New York, with your Baggage, 
 as soon as it is convenient to you, for which this will be 
 your sufficient Pass. 
 
 I am, Sir, Your most obedient and Most humble servant, 
 
 Jos. LORING, 
 Com. Genl. Prisn. 
 
 Addressed: To Colo. Samuel Webb, Prisoner on Long Island. 
 
Il6 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM BENJAMIN BROWN. 
 
 CAMP, [RARITON,] Friday Evening, May 28, 1779. 
 Sir: 
 
 Short after you was gone the boy I sent to Mr. Gary s 
 returned without a bundle, and said Mrs. Gary s compli 
 ments to you, and that she had sent the bundle left by 
 you to Lord Sterling s. Make no doubt you will hear of 
 its arrival as I suppose you halt at his Lordship s. 
 
 I am, Sir, With the greatest respect Your Most obedient 
 Humble Servant, 
 
 BENJAMIN BROWN. 
 
 FROM MRS. G. APTHORP. 
 Sir: 
 
 Your polite offers of conveying a letter to Major Bayard 
 has embolden me to trouble you with a letter, begging you 
 to forward it with a line from yourself, entreating him to 
 send me out a few articles if not contrary to orders. In 
 that case I suppose you can continue to intercede so that 
 I may have them, as they are only small matters for my 
 own use. Your kind attention in this will greatly oblige, 
 Sir, Your Humble Servant, 
 
 G. APTHORP. 
 
 July 3. If you go into York yourself, shall esteem it a 
 particular favor you will see Major Bfayard] 1 and consult 
 him about sending them. 
 
 [BOSTON, June, 1779.] 
 
 1 Samuel Bayard held a commission in the Loyalist Regiment of 
 the King s Orange Rangers, but he did not have the rank of Major 
 until 1787. He was an importing merchant in 1768, with a place on 
 Queen Street. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 117 
 
 FROM COLONEL JOHN BEATTY. 
 
 Colonel Beatty returns his compliments to Colonel 
 Webb. Would do himself the pleasure of breakfasting 
 with him but is prevented by preparing some letters, etc., 
 for him. Will wait on him certainly this morning before 
 eleven o clock, and begs he may not go away without 
 seeing of him. 
 
 Thursday morning, 7 o clock. 
 [MIDDLEBROOK, June, 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam l B. Webb, at Colo. Biddle s Quarters. 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 FLAT BUSH, i/th June, 1779. 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 Yesterday received your kind favor of the 9th instant 
 by the hand of Capt. Rankin. 1 By it am agreeably in 
 formed of your safe arrival at the place you much wished. 
 I congratulate you. At the same time I lament you have 
 not effected that you so much wished for, viz. an exchange 
 for yourself and friends. Have delivered and made your 
 compliments to Mr. Clarkson and family, and your many 
 other friends. Mr. E. L. has called for payment for the 
 two barrels flour that you said Mrs. Miller had. She 
 declares she has not received any, but that Richard was to 
 deliver her two, but did not. I wish you to inform me 
 more particular about them. Have settled your account 
 with Mr. Vanderbelt. Riley and Hopkins are well and 
 
 Robert Rankin of Virginia. 
 
fl8 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 desire to be remembered to you. Mr. Clarkson and family 
 are well, as is the ladies near my Quarters, and desire their 
 compliments to you. Please to make my compliments to 
 your brother and his family, to Capt. Riley and his family, 
 and all friends. I have nothing further to add but best 
 wishes for a speedy exchange for yourself and your friends. 
 1 am with the greatest affection, Dear Colonel, your most 
 Obedient Humble servant, 
 
 EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 Addressed: Collonel Samuel B. Webb, Wethersfield. Captain 
 Robert Rankin. 
 
 FROM SARAH 
 
 BOSTON, June 2Oth, 1779. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 This afternoon Mr. Wikoff leaves town for Philadelphia. 
 By him I send your key. Am very sorry that we did not 
 get Josey s letter sooner. I was at Mr. Temple s 2 when the 
 post went out. Hetty is still there; expect her tomorrow 
 with the family who is to dine here. It gives me sincere 
 pleasure to hear that you are permitted once more to visit 
 your friends again, who have long wished to see you, but 
 none more than myself, and shall not forgive you if you 
 dont spend part of your time with me before your return. 
 I have much to say to you, so has Hetty; but you must 
 come here for I am determined that she dont leave me this 
 some time, for with each other we are happy; separated, / 
 am miserable. Remember me to all my dear brothers and 
 
 1 Mrs. Simpson became Mrs. Joseph Barrell on November 16, 1778. 
 
 2 At Ten Hills. 
 
SAMUEL BL A CHLEY WEBB IIQ 
 
 sisters. I have not time to write them by this convey 
 ance, which I am sorry for. Mr. Barrell joins me in love 
 to you and the family. Write me by every opportunity, 
 and believe that I am and ever will be your sincere friend 
 and most affectionate sister, 
 
 SARAH BARRELL. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam l B. Webb, at Wethersfield. Favored [by] 
 Mr. Wikoff. 
 
 FROM CAPTAIN BEDLOW. 
 
 Capt. Bedlow s best respects to Colonel Webb and will 
 be glad to see him at Clinton House. He has been ill with 
 a dysentery, otherway would have waited on him. 
 
 Wednesday Evening. 
 
 [NEW WINDSOR, June, 1779.] 
 
 JOHN WITHERSPOON TO COL. UDNEY HAY.* 
 
 MORRISTOWN, July 5th, 1779. 
 Sir: 
 
 On my return to Fishkill I went out to inquire after my 
 mare and received for answer, that she would not be fit 
 to travel these two months. It was not convenient for me 
 to stay and I was sorry I did not see you. The mare is a 
 creature I value very much, and I am anxious that great 
 care should be taken of her. 
 
 I have no high opinion of much Farriery in such a case, 
 
 1 A copy in Webb s writing. Hay was Assistant Deputy Quarter 
 master General, and a native of Pennsylvania. 
 
I2O FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 and the less opinion of your Farrier for the horribly pro- 
 phane expression he was pleased to use to my servant when 
 he was first sent to him, and therefore I intend to inclose 
 this to Mr. Loudon, 1 and desire him to take the mare and 
 put her to grass in some safe place, unless you should your 
 self be of opinion that she cannot be removed. 
 
 I very much desire to have a line from you upon the 
 subject. The mare I had from you I shall return after 
 she has rested awhile at Princeton, and in the meantime 
 I shall beg your directions on that subject. 
 
 I am, sir, your most obedient Humble Servant, 
 
 JOHN WlTHERSPOON. 2 
 
 JOSHUA LORING TO LIEUT. COL. SiMCOE. 3 
 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I should take it as a particular favor if you would for 
 ward the inclosed by a flag to the enemy s out post, where 
 
 1 Samuel Loudon, printer of the New York Packet and American 
 Advertiser. He had emigrated from Ireland and kept a ship-chandler s 
 shop in New York, but established his newspaper in 1763, opening 
 later a bookstore in Water Street, near Old Slip. A Whig in poli 
 tics, he removed his press and types to Fishkill, returning to New York 
 on the peace, where his paper continued to be issued in 1793, but under 
 another name The Diary, or London s Register. 
 
 2 Member of the Continental Congress, clergyman and president 
 of Princeton College. 
 
 3 John Graves Simcoe, commandant of a provincial corps, the " Queen s 
 Rangers," an efficient and brave soldier, whose experiences are related 
 in his Journal of the War in America. In 1790 he entered Parliament 
 from Cornwall, but in the following year was appointed the first lieu 
 tenant-governor of Upper Canada, serving under Lord Dorchester. 
 He died in 1806. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 121 
 
 I believe Mr. Nathan Frink is waiting for it, as you will 
 see by the inclosed papers. 
 
 I am with great esteem, Your most obedient and Most 
 Humble servant, 
 
 JOSHUA LORING. 
 
 NEW YORK, 3ist July, [1779]. 
 
 Addressed: Lt. Colo. Simcoe, Commanding Queen s Rangers. 
 
 FROM GEORGE DRAPER. 
 
 [July, 1779.] 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 If you go to New York, I beg you will purchase for me 
 to the amount of two guineas such corduroy as you can at 
 present. I am, Dear sir, Your very obedient servant, 
 
 GEORGE DRAPER. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam l Webb, at General Greene s Quarters. 
 
 FROM THOMAS MUMFORD. 
 
 GROTON, nth August, 1779. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I promised myself the pleasure of seeing you here before 
 this, which I had a right to expect from your favor of isth 
 ultimo. Have lately heard you was gone to Head Quar 
 ters to effect your exchange, in which I sincerely hope you 
 will succeed, not only for your own personal satisfaction, 
 but for the benefit of the Public Service, particularly your 
 Regiment where you are exceedingly needed. Still hope 
 
122 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 for the satisfaction of seeing you at my house soon after 
 your return from Head Quarters, when I hope to be able 
 to congratulate you on your release from captivity. My 
 son 1 is now at Boston refitting my Sloop Hancock, which 
 narrowly escaped the Greyhound Frigate by outsailing her, 
 but threw eight of her cannon over. 
 
 My Compliments to your brother and lady, and believe 
 
 me your real and affectionate 
 
 THOMAS MUMFORD. 
 
 Addressed: To Colo. Samuel B. Webb, in Weathersfield. 
 
 FROM FREDERICK JAY. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Being just informed that you are going to New York in 
 a few days, I have taken the liberty to trouble you with 
 the inclosed letters which you ll please to have delivered 
 as directed. I wish you all the success possible, and am 
 Your very obedient servant, 
 
 FREDERICK JAY. 
 RED HOOK, i6th August, 1779. 
 
 Addressed: Collo. Webb, at - . Per Mr. Lane. 
 
 CLUB DINNER. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, August 24th, 1779. 
 
 A CLUB DINNER is proposed to be at Samuel Stillman s 
 house on Thursday, at Two o clock, on turtle, when the 
 following gentlemen s company is desired. 
 . ELIZUR GOODRICH, RILEY, ETC. 
 
 1 Giles Mumford. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 123 
 
 Capt. JOHN CHENEVARD 
 Mr. JAMES CHURCH 
 Mr. JOHN BIGELOW 
 Capt. JAMES WATSON 
 Col. HEZ. WILLYS 1 
 Col. JOHN BROOME 
 Mr. NEHEMIAH HUBBARD 
 Mr. JEREMIAH PLATT 
 Mr. EBENEZER PLATT 
 Capt. CALEB BULL, Jr. 3 
 Capt. SMEDLEY 4 
 Mr. JOSEPH BULL 
 Mr. WM. IMLAY 
 Capt. ELIZUR GOODRICH 
 
 Capt. ASHBEL RlLEY 5 
 A. ROBBINS 
 
 Capt. C. BULKLEY 
 Capt. JOHN BULKLEY Jr. 
 Capt. JOHN CHESTER 
 Mr. LEONARD CHESTER 
 Capt. THOMAS NEWTON 
 Capt. ELIJAH WRIGHT 6 
 Mr. B[ARNABAS] DEANE 
 Mr. JOSEPH WEBB 
 Col. SAMUEL B. WEBB 
 Mr. JOHN WRIGHT 
 Mr. ALEXANDER HUNT 
 Mr. JUSTUS RILEY 
 Mr. GEORGE STANLY 
 Mr. SIMEON BELDEN 
 Mr. DANIEL BUCK 
 Col. AARON BURR 
 
 Hartford 
 
 Wethersfield 
 
 gone 
 
 Middletown 
 
 1 Captain in the 6th Battalion Connecticut Militia, Wadsworth s 
 Brigade. 
 
 2 In the State Quartermaster s department. 
 
 3 Commissioned Captain in Webb s regiment in 1777, but resigned 
 in 1778. 
 
 4 Captain of the Hibernia and Recovery, privateers. 
 
 5 An old trader to the West Indies and now engaged in privateers, 
 
 6 In the Connecticut militia. 
 
124 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Mr. GEORGE STARR Middletown 
 
 Mr. NATHAN SAGE " 
 
 Capt. MOSES WILLIAMS 
 
 Mr. WILLIAM GRISWOLD 
 
 Mr. WAIT GOODRICH Glastonbury 
 
 Maj. JOSHUA HUNTINGTON 
 
 Mr. JAMES LOCKWOOD 
 
 Mr. WILLIAM MAY 
 
 Mr. STEPHEN MITCHEL 
 
 Mr. JOSEPH HILLMAN 
 
 Mr. JOSIAH DEMING 
 
 Capt. ALLYN STILLMAN 
 
 Mr. EBENEZER WRIGHT 
 
 Mr. JOSEPH BUTLER 
 
 Capt. CHESTER WILLIS 
 
 Mr. WILLIAM BEADLE 
 
 Mr. PETER COLT 
 
 WILLIAM DEMING 
 Capt. MOSES TAYLOR 
 Lieut. JOHN HANMER 
 Mr. JOSIAH BUCK 
 
 Capt. LUKE FORTUNE gone 
 
 Mr. Du CASS 
 Mr. VIOLANG 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 FLAT BUSH, September, 1779. 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 I received yours of the Qth instant, and by it I am in 
 formed you are on the business of exchange; hope you may 
 not be disappointed. You seem to be surprised at the 
 conduct of some gentlemen here. It is really a matter of 
 surprise. I could say much on this subject, but for good 
 reasons shall omit it until a more convenient season, as I 
 have but little prospect of being released from my cap 
 tivity until I have spent another winter here. Have 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 125 
 
 determined to form a mess of four, and live in as agree 
 able a manner as our situation will allow. The present 
 manner of our living with the inhabitants in their style, 
 you know is truly disagreeable and far from being fit for 
 any other persons but such as themselves. To live like 
 gentlemen of Colonel Webb s Regiment have requested 
 Colonel Wadsworth to send on a small supply, a copy of 
 which have inclosed for your perusal, and in case he cannot 
 attend to our request, am sure you feel for us and will send 
 such supplies as we have asked from him. The good 
 family at the half way house are all well, so are the ladies 
 near my quarters. Mr. Riley and your Adjutant * are 
 both well and join in this request. Please to make my 
 best compliments to Mr. Webb and his family and all my 
 friends in Wethersfield. Shall be very happy to hear from 
 you every opportunity. 
 
 I am, Dear Colonel, Your Most Obedient and Very 
 humble servant, 
 
 EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, Wethersfield in the State of 
 Connecticut. 
 
 FROM SILAS DEANE. 
 
 MURDERERS CREEK, October I5th, 1779. 
 My Dr. Col. Webb: 
 
 I promised myself the pleasure of seeing you at Head 
 Quarters, but have been disappointed not only of this but 
 of receiving any letter from you by my Brother. I re 
 turn to Philadelphia tomorrow and after a short stay 
 
 1 Elisha Hopkins. 
 
126 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 there shall proceed to Virginia to embark. I shall write 
 you from Philadelphia, and therefore refer you at present 
 to my Brother for particulars. I pray to hear from you 
 by every opportunity, and that you will be assured I am 
 ever most affectionately your sincere Friend and very 
 Humble Servant, 
 
 SILAS DEANE. 
 
 FROM JOHN BEATTY. 
 
 BETHLEHEM, Sunday Morning, [November, 1779.] 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have this moment received your favor of last evening. 
 Will wait on you if possible, but fear I shall not be able, 
 as I am much indisposed this morning. Added to this I 
 fear my feeble efforts will add nothing to your intentions 
 in going to Philadelphia. I wish you may succeed, but 
 depend on it it is only a finesse. A direct answer to the 
 certificate will serve your purposes better. If I should 
 not come by eleven, you will please to leave a line for me, 
 and rest assured of every service in my power. My sulky 
 would only deceive you. It is much out of repair, and is 
 now at the smiths to be mended. 
 
 I am, dear sir, yours, 
 
 JNO. BEATTY. 
 
 Colonel Beatty will thank Colonel Webb to take charge 
 of the letters which accompany this. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam l B. Webb, at Colo. Wadsworth s. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 127 
 
 FROM JOSEPH BARRELL. 
 
 BOSTON, ist November, 1779. 
 Dear Sam: 
 
 Tho I ve nothing particular to say to you, yet as you 
 Gentry of the long sword are so very tenacious of the re 
 spect that is due from us plebeians, I intend to spoil this 
 half sheet, least my omitting it may offend your highness. 
 Your powder is not yet here; when it arrives I ll do the 
 best I can. What s become of the Gates and Washington? 1 
 Why were they not in company with the Experiment 2 that 
 you might have made your fortune when Bro. Jo made his? 
 I fear the season is too far advanced for such little fry to 
 do anything and indeed I [torn} part of them, that if you 
 want to increase your [torn} say the word what you will 
 give for mine. I [torn} may have it in your power to secure 
 it for your share, for I ve lately dip t largely this way, and 
 at New London are vessels that would take both Washing 
 ton and Gates and stow them away very slyly where they 
 could not easily be found. I mean the vessels, not the men, 
 for I should be sorry to have them secreted until the game 
 is up. Foolish Britain, she is just beginning to reap the bit 
 ter fruit of her wickedness with respect to America. If you 
 are sick of your wife Hetty, you may bring her this way; 
 and if you ll promise to dine with us once in a fortnight, 
 you may come yourself, and I ll give you a glass of wine 
 nearly equal to satisfaction, lately purchaised from the 
 
 1 Privateers which had been quite successful in taking prizes. 
 
 2 The Experiment was a schooner of twelve guns, and a crew of 
 eighty men, owned by William Griswold and Company of Wethers- 
 field. The master s name was Nathan Sage. In 1780 the same 
 vessel sailed under Giles Hall, Jr. and John Bulkley, Jr. and was 
 then owned by Barnabas Deane and Company. 
 
128 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 - frigates prizes. Adieu. I m in haste, sleepy as a dog. 
 Yrs. &c., &c., &c., 
 
 J.B. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Saml. B. Webb, at Wethersfield. 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 FLAT BUSH, I3th November, 1779. 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 By Mr. Bull am agreeably informed you and friends are 
 well. Am much disappointed you cannot comply with 
 our request for necessaries. Your friends here are well. I 
 wish you every good thing this world affords, while we are 
 here enjoying the comforts of confinement and feasting 
 upon speck and clippers. I am, dear Colonel, your un 
 fortunate 
 
 EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 Addressed: Collonel Samuel B. Webb, Wethersfield, Connecticut. 
 Per favour Mr. Bull. 
 
 FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA, December 24, 1779. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 I have your two favors, the first inclosing a letter to Miss 
 Bfancker]. 1 Be assured I will send it by a careful hand, or 
 deliver it myself when I return. Your brother may be 
 assured of my attending to his affairs, and you to yours 
 the moment I can have time, but at this instant I am more 
 distressed than ever I was since you knew me. I am con 
 strained to stay here buried in business and slaving day 
 
 1 Webb, Correspondence and Journals, II, 222. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 129 
 
 and night. The immediate calls of the army demand my 
 whole attention and that of everybody else. God send us 
 better times. Sleep to which I have been lately much a 
 stranger forbids me to add more than that I am Yours, 
 
 JERE WADSWORTH. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Sam B. Webb, Wethersfield. 
 
 FROM SAMUEL ALLEYNE OTIS. 
 
 Sunday Morning, [January 23, 1780.] 
 
 Mr. Otis compliments to his most valued friends Col. 
 and Capt. Webb, and wishes them an agreeable journey. 
 They may depend upon every degree of attention to the 
 particulars of Col. Webb s billett, and as a letter by the 
 post may be productive of one from them in return, the 
 love of pleasure will most certainly induce Mr. O. to take 
 the first opportunity of writeing. 
 
 The worthy brothers will not forget their friends when 
 they draw the corks, and tis expected the Lady in Long 
 Acre and at the Rope Walks will be toasted in more than 
 one bumper. 
 
 God bless you my friends. Long life and laurells to you ! 
 
 FROM NATHAN BEERS. 1 
 CAMP NEAR MORRIS TOWN, in Marque, 26th Jany., 1780. 
 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 As the times of service of a number of the men of your 
 Regiment expires on the first of February, 1780, and a 
 
 Paymaster to Webb s Regiment, 
 
130 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 considerable number very soon after, I am necessitated to 
 call upon you for the accounts of cloathing delivered to the 
 Regiment in the year 1777, and to the time that Col. 
 Huntington took charge of the same, without which it will 
 be impossible for me to make a settlement with the men 
 agreeable to his Excellency s orders of the 6th instant; 
 wherein the Regimental Pay Masters are directed to settle 
 with the man for all arrearages of cloathing and wages due 
 to them up to the time of their discharge. 
 
 My particular situation must be my apology for troub 
 ling you at this time, as I cannot come at the accounts 
 through any other channel. 
 
 Wishing you health and a speedy exchange, I remain 
 your Humble Servant, 
 
 NATHAN BEERS. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Samuel B. Webb, Connecticut, Wethersfield. 
 
 FROM NEHEMIAH HUBBARD. 
 
 HARTFORD, January 3Oth, 1780. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I am favored with yours of this date. The letters you 
 left with me were forwarded, but I cannot inform you by 
 whom they were sent. 
 
 I will see Mr. Olcott this evening and desire him to pay 
 particular attention to your horses. 
 
 Should any opportunity to Head Quarters offer, you may 
 depend on being advertised. Your obedient Humble 
 servant, 
 
 N. HUBBARD. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam. B. Webb, Weathersfield. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 To THOMAS MUMFORD. 
 
 Sir: Sunday Evening, 7 O Clock, [February, 1780.] 
 
 I this moment received your Billet in which you men 
 tion your disappointment in not seeing me as proposed. I 
 know of no other appointment made than that you said 
 you should see me in the morning. My indisposition 
 prevented my attending Church. I flattered myself you 
 would call. For that purpose I had, agreeable to my 
 promise, collected the Bills and wrote what I now enclose. 
 As to my brother s borrowing of you Fifty Guineas for me 
 twelve months past, I confess I was ignorant; to oblige 
 you, sir, was a sufficient inducement for me to part with 
 the carnage, and as he is in your debt on my account 
 (owing to my unfortunate captivity) it will be my desire to 
 see you properly and honorably paid, either in money, 
 carnages or any other thing I have to dispose of. I am, sir, 
 
 your most Humble servant, 
 
 S. B. WEBB. 
 
 The Phaeton & Harness (independent of the Ticklingh 
 cover, cost with the additional Bills for brasses, false 
 collars and bridle bits, 76 Guineas @ 28 / is ... io6.8/ 
 
 The weare and tear of the carriage since, I conceive but 
 trifling, nor have I a doubt it would command the above 
 some in Philadelphia immediately. However, if Mr. 
 Mumford should have an inclination for it, for his own use, 
 Col. Webb will consent to be a looser 40 dollars from the 
 cost. A cheaper one may be bought, but none that I have 
 seen so good. 
 
 Copy sent Mr. Mumford, Sunday Evening, 7 o clock, 
 inclosed in a letter in answer to his of this date. 1 
 
 1 The postscript is not in Webb s writing. 
 
132 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM THOMAS MUMFORD. 
 Sir: 
 
 I covet no man s property; therefore, as you say you 
 have no doubt of obtaining the sum in Philadelphia that 
 your Phaeton cost you, have no desire to obtain it for a 
 less sum; but that being considerable more than I am 
 willing to give, shall think no more of purchasing it; I had 
 a Right to suppose your Brother would have informed you 
 I lent him the fifty Guineys mentioned in my Billet, as he 
 knew I lent them purely to oblige Colo. Webb. Am sorry 
 my desire to oblige a friend in captivity should now be 
 otherways construed; gratitude is a virtue I am happy to 
 possess. I have no Legal Right to call on Col. Webb for 
 any sums furnished his Brother, but as his said Brother 
 informed me he wanted the money only for you, and found 
 it very difficult to obtain what solid coin was necessary, I 
 freely lent it. I see no impropriety in giving this infor 
 mation. The amount of the Dutch Bill you are acquainted 
 with, which with the Guineys I will thank you to inform 
 your Brother I am in want of. 
 
 I am, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, 
 
 THOS. MUMFORD. 
 
 WEATHERSFIELD, Sunday evening. 
 13 February, 1780. 
 
 FROM JAMES WATSON. 1 
 Dear Col: 
 
 I was unexpectedly detained yesterday that I could 
 not meet you as proposed. It will be no disadvantage, I 
 
 1 Commissioned a captain in Webb s regiment, January I, 1777, 
 but resigned, and in 1780 became State Commissary of Purchases. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 133 
 
 suppose, as the Committee of Pay Table 1 will any tim 
 take your Receipt and balance my account. 
 
 When I was at your house I left a certifycate respecting 
 some powder, which I beg of you to leave with your 
 Brother for me. It is a matter of great consequence to 
 me to have the certifycate, and I must intreat you by no 
 means to forget it. 
 
 I wish you a good journey and a speedy exchange with 
 as much sincerity as I have ever been Your friend and 
 Humble servant, 
 
 J. WATSON. 
 HARTFORD, February 26, 1780. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam. B. Webb, Weathersfield. 
 
 FROM JOHN Rics. 2 
 
 BOSTON, Feby. 29th, 1780. 
 Sir: 
 
 I have just received your letter of the 2ist instant, 
 enclosing one addressed to Major Harnage, 3 which you 
 may be assured shall be delivered him with safety and 
 dispatch. 
 
 I am, Sir, Your most obedient and very humble servant, 
 
 JOHN RICE. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B Webb, at Headquarters, Morristown. 
 
 1 A committee of the Assembly, instituted in April, 1775, to "ex 
 amine, liquidate, adjust, settle and give needful orders for the payment" 
 of accounts arising from the raising and equipment of soldiers. 
 
 2 Had been a captain in the l8th Regiment of Continental Infantry. 
 
 3 Major Henry Harnage, of the 62d Regiment of Foot, of which 
 Valentine Jones was the colonel. 
 
134 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM ELISHA HOPKINS. 
 
 FLAT BUSH, 7th March, 1780. 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 We wrote you by Col. Towles : requesting that some 
 necessary supplies might be sent, to enable us (in case of 
 an Exchange) to discharge such private debts as we have 
 been necessitated to contract, on the other hand to render 
 our situation more agreeable if we must remain. For 
 which purpose we shall endeavor to procure permission 
 for such articles to come in as you may think proper to 
 send. 
 
 Mr. and Mrs. T- be desire to be particularly remem 
 bered to their old friend. We have received every mark 
 of friendship and politeness from that gentleman and 
 lady. Should be happy to have it in our power to get the 
 last a little salmon. 
 
 Major Giles will be able to inform you respecting the 
 half way House and the manoeuvres in Limboshire. 2 
 
 Mr. Fitzhugh and Blewer are present and desire their 
 particular compliments. Dear Colonel, I have the honor 
 to subscribe In behalf of the Officers of your Corps with 
 the Highest respect and esteem, 
 
 ELISHA HOPKINS. 
 
 1 Oliver Towles of the 6th Regiment, who was captured in Decem 
 ber, 1777, and exchanged towards the end of 1780. He was a Virginian. 
 
 2 A name for Flatbush. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 135 
 
 FROM GEORGE OLCOTT. 1 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, March 2Oth, 1780. 
 Sir: 
 
 I take this opportunity (if not too late) to rectify the 
 mistake I made in information, in giving you the minute 
 of the Instruments I requested purchased. Instead of a 
 case of Bistorys I want a case of Dissecting [ ]; And 
 further request if the money sent fall short of their prices, 
 that you advance it for me if you can with conveniency 
 and not disoblige your[self. The] Instruments shall be 
 your security till you receive the money. You add [the] 
 lawfull interest and full compensation for your trouble. 
 From your humble servant, 
 
 GEORGE OLCOTT. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Saml. B. Webb, Morristown. 
 
 FROM JOHN CARTER. 
 
 BOSTON, March 26th, 1780. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I am favored with yours of the 28th ultimo. I am ex 
 ceedingly obliged to you for your caution respecting my 
 letter, and hope you have by this time found an oppor 
 tunity to forward it. I long much to hear from you about 
 Business. General Schuyler is at Philadelphia. I have 
 wrote to him by this conveyance desiring him to request 
 of General Washington permission for me to go to New 
 York and I hope his application will be attended with 
 success. 
 
 1 Dr. George Olcott, who became one of the original members of 
 the Connecticut Medical Society, in 1792. 
 
136 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Mrs. Carter and Miss Schuyler desire their particular 
 compliments to you. Erskine and Harry have left us; 
 you have doubtless seen them before this. We still keep 
 it up here pretty well, and the lads are in good spirits. 
 Adieu. I am ever sincerely yours, 
 
 JOHN CARTER. 
 
 Addressed: Coll. Saml. B Webb, to the care of Major-General Greene, 
 near Head Quarters, Morristown. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I have only time to say that untill the arrival of your 
 letter of today the whole family have thought extremely 
 hard of you for your neglect of writing. We have had 
 several family hops since your arrival which have been 
 vastly agreeable, indeed much beyond what could have 
 expected. Last evening there was a large collection of 
 officers, etc. at Middletown, and this evening all meet at 
 Windsor. For news of all kinds I refer you to the bearer. 
 
 The 264 is arrived but 408 90 her 324 s [cargoe?] has 
 about hrrrr wt of sugar, some coffee, etc., but no great 
 things to brag of. Her 324 [cargo?] will 197 [net?] us hrrr 
 and she s now coming up the river. The 455 is gone 
 
 down, will 315 from 455 in h 214.690 375 448 568 are 
 
 366ed One hth. 376 a 207 thing. 1 Your baggage is yet 
 at the store. Lockwood has had a pretty arrival. Tryon 2 
 from P. A Prince. Colt is concerned. What s become of 
 my Magazines? What s become of Beatty-arnold? More 
 
 1 Referring to some privateering venture, but indecipherable with 
 out the key. 
 
 2 Moses Tryon commanded the Jason. He was of Wethersfield. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 137 
 
 I cant write, as the bearer waits. Hubbard promises 
 your baggage to go on tomorrow or next day. Write me 
 as often as possible. Adieu. 
 
 All friends desire to be remembered Yrs. Affectionately, 
 
 j. w. 
 
 29th March, 1780. 
 
 FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 This whole day have I flattered myself with the pleas 
 ing thoughts of drinking tea at Mrs. Greene s : this after 
 noon, in Company with Miss Bancker and Miss Lott, 2 
 etc., etc., but instead of that at 4 o clock I find myself in 
 Hutt, on business which threatens me during the evening. 
 
 Upon some occasions I should suppose the weather 
 might induce me to remain at home; but at this time the 
 weather would be too trifling an excuse, and on that 
 account that Rascall of a Business has intruded to pre 
 vent my promis[ed] Pleasure. That being the case, permit 
 me to trouble you in presenting my compliments to the 
 Ladies, and in the same pretty way you speak for your 
 self, then (in my misfortune) I shall be honored. 
 
 Ashur waits on you for your directions for Gra[zvafer.] 
 
 If your slender Constitution will receive no injury from 
 the weather, nor your feelings by the absence from the 
 company of the Ladies and Gentlemen, permit me to 
 
 1 Wife of Nathanael Greene. She was Catherine Littlefield, daughter 
 of John Littlefield. 
 
 2 Abraham Lott married Gertrude, daughter of Andrew Coeyman, 
 and had one son, Andrew, and four daughters. Catharine married 
 Col. William Livingston and Cornelia, Comfort Sands. Two daughters 
 remained unmarried. 
 
138 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 request your company at the Hutt this night, and in the 
 morning you may enter on your command of me for the 
 day. Adieu. 
 
 EB. HUNTINGTON. 
 
 Monday, [March, 1780.] 
 
 P. S. Jackson will call for you on his return from 
 General Knox and expect your company to the Hutt. 
 
 FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON. 
 
 Thursday, I o clock, [April, 1780.] 
 
 [Camp near MORRISTOWN.] 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 Before I received your note by Richard I sent a lad 
 with one to Morris Town, but it was too late; you had gone. 
 I have sent by Richard a few balls which I have procured, 
 but as to powder or more ball, I can send none without 
 making use of the publick cartridges, which I can not 
 think justifiable. I have so often made excuses for not 
 visiting Mr. Lott s family (tho never without really 
 having one), that I am unwilling to repeat it; but am 
 obliged to in justification of my own feelings, and in compli 
 ance to the true politeness I have received from that 
 family. The C[ourt] Martial is not dissolved, and [I] ex 
 pect it will sit tomorrow. I wish you to assure Mr. Lott 
 that I am not callous to the civilities I have received, and 
 to convince him, [I] will as soon as I can take my horse in 
 the morning, and just alight myself at Brunswyck to 
 spend the day with the family. 
 
 As soon as the Weekly Return is made out I will send 
 him two carpenters agreeable to his desire for a week. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 139 
 
 Make my compliments to the family and believe to be 
 yours Sincerely, 
 
 EBEN. HUNTINGTON. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Webb, Beverwyck. Per Richard. 
 
 FROM GEORGE OLNEY/ 
 Dear S r* MORRIS TOWN, i8th April, 1780. 
 
 Mrs. Greene declines letting her carriage go to the 
 Raraton, lest any movement of the enemy in its absence 
 should make her departure hence necessary! 
 
 My horse and chaise is at your service; but as it would 
 not be clever for the ladies to drive, especially as the 
 horse is rather skittish and unused to a carriage, I sup 
 pose this conveyance would not comport with your wishes; 
 if it will, Mrs. Olney will be ready to attend you at any 
 hour you please tomorrow morning. With esteem, I am, 
 Dear Sir, Your Friend and servant, 
 
 GEORGE OLNEY. 
 
 FROM WALTER STEWART. 2 
 D W bb- Thursday afternoon, [MORRISTOWN, May, 1780.] 
 
 I received the Herring, for which [I] return my sincere 
 thanks. 
 
 I am rather unwell today. Should the indisposition 
 continue, I much fear I shall not be able to visit the 
 
 1 Of Rhode Island, In October he was appointed by the General 
 Assembly to "post up the accounts of this State against the United 
 States," and was, later, receiver of the Continental taxes. 
 
 2 Colonel of the 2d Pennsylvania Regiment. He had been aide de 
 camp to General Gates in 1776. 
 
I4O FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Raraton on Sunday; but I will endeavor to do it as much 
 as possible, and shall acquaint Huntington previous to 
 my setting off. I am Yours sincerely, 
 
 W. STEWART. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I forgot a very material affair which was, in the Con 
 necticut line, to find out the late Captain Beaumont in 
 the Surinam Trade. Let Richard find him out and ask 
 him for a receipt and an account where B[arnabas] Deane 
 and Riley may call for the Bills in Surinam he left be 
 hind. A vessel [is] now bound to Surinam. They want 
 to send the Receipt to get the money from Surinam.- The 
 Experiment has taken a prize of 90 HHd Rum. Stupid 
 Stephen left one of my shirts with another of Capt. Webb s 
 in the room I lodged at at Mrs. Green s. Will you call 
 on Campbell, a small tavern on your road about 20 miles 
 from here, and ask delicately, if when I lay down today 
 on the bed I did not drop a golden guinea. I am yours 
 sincerely, JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 [wafer] HAVERSTRAW, Tuesday Evening [June, 1780.] 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, at General Greene s, Morris- 
 town. 
 
 FROM TITUS HOSMER. 
 
 [HARTFORD, June, 1780.] 
 My Dear Sir: 
 
 I have no time to write. Col. Wadsworth will deliver 
 you the Act of Assembly respecting your Battallion, 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 which I flatter myself will be agreeable to your wishes. I 
 can only acknowledge the receipt of your two last letters. 
 Thank you for their contents, and assure you of the in 
 violable affection with which I have the honor to be, Dear 
 Sir, Your friend and humble servant, 
 
 TITUS HOSMER. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, Morristown. Honored by 
 Colo. Wadsworth. 
 
 FROM MAJOR GENERAL HEATH. 
 
 G[eneral] H[eath] commends much C[olonel] W[ebb] s 
 good judgment in leaving the present relaxing climate of 
 Jersey for a more northern latitude, and there are times 
 and seasons when it may be as necessary for a man to 
 pay a visit to his uncle as his aunt. 
 
 FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. 
 
 [HARTFORD, July 17, 1780.] 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 The Bearers, Joseph Poling, Gay Chapel, are recom 
 mended to me by Col. Hay, at Fish Kills. They left 
 Canada and are seeking business. I beg the favour of 
 you to procure them a passage to New Port, in the vessel 
 you are going in. 1 I am, Dear Sir, Your very humble 
 servant, 
 
 J. WADSWORTH. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Sam. B. Webb, Wethersfield. 
 
 Webb, Correspondence and Journals, II, 274, 
 
142 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 FLAT BUSH, 28th July, 1780. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I wrote you in May last by Mr. Shirtliff, in which I 
 particularly requested you to send me a horse; since 
 which I have received a letter from Mr. Jos. Webb, prom 
 ising that my request should be immediately complied 
 with, and am still impatiently awaiting his arrival. 
 
 Every idea of an exchange is now at an end, and we 
 left to linger out an irksome captivity in want and misery. 
 Sixteen months are past without the least attention from 
 the public. To be thus neglected by the public, and by 
 those I thought my friends, is too much, and how much 
 longer they will continue their inattention I cant say; 
 but this I can say, they are every day losing the esteem 
 of their officers in captivity. Sir, if you will be so kind 
 as to inform me if I am to have my horse or not, for I am 
 unwilling to give you any farther trouble on the subject. 
 Your bill of exchange is unsold as yet. I am, sir, your 
 neglected Humble servant, EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, Wethersfield, Connecticut. 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 Dear Col: 
 
 I wrote you on the 28th July by way of Jersey. I then 
 intended not to have wrote you any more, untill I had 
 received a line from you and a horse, which I have long 
 and impatiently been waiting for. 
 
 A good and quick convaince has just presented, which I 
 embrace once more, to request you will be so obliging as 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 143 
 
 to forward me a good horse by the first opportunity, 
 which I am in great want of; more particularly as every 
 idea of an exchange is now at an end, [and] we left to 
 drag out the remains of a long and irksome captivity in 
 indigency and want. Near sixteen months are past since 
 the least attention paid us by the public, and how much 
 longer they will continue their inattention I can t say; 
 but to be thus neglected by the public and by our friends 
 I think is rather Taught [tough]. 
 
 If we could be indulged with paroles to go home, it 
 might alleviate us some. Cannot such a thing be effected 
 for us by sending in officers of similar rank? 
 
 I must conclude by adding I am, Dear Sir, your most 
 Obedient and most Humble Servant, 
 
 EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 n o clock at night. FLAT BUSH, 1st August, 80. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, Wethersfield, Connecticut. 
 
 FROM LEWIS MORRIS. 1 
 
 VERPLANCK S POINT, August 6th, 1780. 
 My dear Sir: 
 
 I received your favor of the 29th ultimo with the in 
 closed, which was forwarded by a horseman last evening, 
 agreeable to the direction of your brother. 
 
 I am happy to hear of your safe return. I was under 
 some apprehensions of your falling in with the British 
 fleet, which would have been peculiarly unfortunate for 
 you as a prisoner. Apropos, nothing w r ould give me more 
 
 1 Son of Judge Lewis Morris, and now aide de camp to General 
 Greene. 
 
144 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 pleasure than to see you at the head of your Regiment 
 this campaign; but how can it be effected? Point out a 
 mode, and everything I can say or do in the matter shall 
 be attempted. There is no general exchange taken place 
 as yet, and a partial one has not been agreed to. 
 
 Your anxiety to hear from the dear girl * is very natural. 
 I know it, because I have felt as you felt. I have done 
 everything in my power to establish a more regular channel 
 of conveyance from the Branch, and I think I have now 
 effected it. Your letters will be forwarded from Mrs. 
 Van Vecter s at my particular request, and the lady s 
 lodged there. The expresses to and from Philadelphia 
 shall be directed to call; this will be an easy and secure 
 conveyance, and is the best plan I can adopt in my pres 
 ent circumstances, which I hope may meet with your 
 approbation. 
 
 Mr. Temple, you inform me, has at last put his plan in 
 execution. 2 I have long since deluded myself into a belief 
 that it would never take place, and therefore I feel the 
 greater mortification. Alas! she is gone, and I have to 
 lament her departure. Believe me, my dear Webb, it is 
 the severest trial I ever experienced. She was as dear to 
 me as my life. Our passion, I flatter myself was mutual, 
 and nothing but the cruel determination of her father 
 could have prevented a union, which my happiness so 
 much depended upon. Thus circumstanced, I know it is 
 natural to suppose that it was in my power to have pre 
 vented her going. It was not unattempted I assure [you]. 
 
 1 Eliza Bancker. 
 
 2 This may have been John Temple, who was at this time in the 
 United States and had visited Congress. His eldest daughter married 
 Thomas Lindall Winthrop of Boston. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 145 
 
 But such was her filial affection, and the positive objec 
 tions of her father to her forming a connection in this 
 country, that she was under the disagreeable necessity 
 of sacrificing the more endearing considerations to a duty, 
 which she conceived she owed her parents. God bless 
 her, and as I am precluded from the expectation myself, 
 may she be as happy in a connection with another, as I 
 flatter myself she would have been with me. 
 
 As General Clinton has returned to New York, the plan 
 in meditation against New York has subsided, and the 
 army is now crossing the river to take post at Dobbs 
 Ferry, where we shall establish a communication across 
 the river, and make our approaches regularly, agreeable 
 to the original plan. My respects at home and believe 
 me. [Signature torn off.} 
 
 FROM JOHN HART. 1 
 
 SAY BROOK. August I2th, 1780. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 According to your request per my brother, I have this 
 day wrote Col. Huntington respecting the note, and told 
 him, I expected to have the full value of the money at the 
 time of paying accounted to you, and requested him to 
 write you upon the matter immediately. I expect to go 
 from home soon, and should I not return in season to settle 
 our accounts, have in that case requested Capt. Bull to 
 settle them for me, and have furnished him with my paper, 
 &c., as requisite. If you have no price for the cloathing, 
 
 1 He seems to have been a quartermaster sergeant in the 5th 
 Battalion of Connecticut Militia, Wadsworth s Brigade. Appointed 
 in July, 1776, he was discharged when the six months for which the 
 battalion was raised expired. 
 
146 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 let that part lye until you and I see one another again. I 
 have nothing more to add but am, with esteem, your Very 
 Humble Servant, J. HART. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuell B. Webb, Weathersfield. 
 
 THOMAS MONCRIEFFE 1 TO MRS. BANCKER. 
 
 Dear Madam: LoNG IsLAND > 2Ist August I78 " 
 
 I received your letter by Mrs. Dunscombe, and answered 
 it soon after by Major Giles, since which I have obtained 
 a permit for you to come into New York, which I shall 
 inclose and leave with Mr. Mathews to forward, and be 
 assured you will meet with no difficulty on this side. 
 
 I have already laid a foundation for you to act on in the 
 collecting your money, and I have every reason to suppose 
 you will settle your business to your mind. Mr. Mathews 
 has assured me he will lend you all the assistance in his 
 power. At all times you may command, Dear Madam, 
 your truly respectful and most obedient servant, 
 
 T. MONCRIEFFE. 
 
 The above is a true and exact copy of Major Moncrieffe s 
 letter to Mrs. Sarah Bancker. Certified by 
 
 SAMUEL B. WEBB. 2 
 
 FROM JOSEPH BARRELL. 
 
 Dear Sam: BosTON 3Ist August I78a 
 
 You would have heard from me before in answer to two 
 or three letters received from you, but my confinement to 
 
 1 A captain in the 59th Regiment and major of brigade. 
 
 2 Webb, Correspondence and Journals, II, 302. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 147 
 
 my bed prevented. I am sorry you are prevented com 
 ing, upon the account you are. This cursed act being so 
 often repeated leaves me no hopes of real amendment. I 
 see the concerned mistrust the author, as her conduct 
 while here, having got amongst the lower sort, has spread 
 pretty far I fear. I wish you had been confined in New 
 York when you brought her, for had she never been here 
 this matter might very easily been covered; but as it is, 
 what is it to you that you should deprive yourself any 
 pleasure on that account. Your an honest dog, and so is 
 Kitty; both of you and every other of the family will 
 always be welcome at my home. We expect to see you 
 after your return from the Jerseys, and don t make it late 
 in the fall, for fear I shall be plagued with you again all 
 winter, and your example should prove my ruin. 
 
 My love to Kitty. By this opportunity her gown will 
 be forwarded, and I hope come safely. I ve informed Col. 
 Gary of this opportunity. He has wrote you by this days 
 post. Adieu in haste, Yours affectionately, 
 
 J. BARRELL. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Sam. B. Webb, Wethersfield. 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY AND ELISHA HOPKINS. 
 
 MORRIS TOWN, I7th December, 1780. 
 Dear Col: 
 
 This will inform you of our being in the Land of Liberty, 
 God be praised. We intend doing ourselves the honor of 
 waiting on you at your New Quarters, but Capt. Hopkins 
 is very unwell, and our Horses has been boarding at Flat 
 Bush, two circumstances much against us, and will we 
 hope [be] a sufficient appologe for our taking the Liberty 
 
148 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 to request you to come here, as we are very anxious to see 
 you, and shall wait the return of Hackley 1 the barrer of 
 this. If you cannot see us, we wish to have your order 
 and proceed home; the canteens &c. have got. Please to 
 make our compliments to your Lady and Capt. Webb, if 
 with you. We are, Dear Col., with every sentiment of 
 esteem Your most obedient and most Humble servants, 
 
 EDWD. BULKLEY. 
 
 ELISHA HOPKINS. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, North Branch Rariton. 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 FISH KILL, 24th December, 1780. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 This will inform you of our arrival here this day. Have 
 paid Mr. Gautier for the canteens, and have his receipt for 
 the money. Have found great difficulties in gitting our 
 baggage forward. Have thought best to leave your can 
 teens with Col. Scammell, 2 with orders to deliver them to 
 Major Willis. 3 I have likewise delivered to Major Willis 
 your orders concerning them. Please to present my best 
 compliments to Mrs. W[ebb] and the other Ladies of your 
 good family, and believe me to be, with every sentiment 
 of the respect and esteem, your Affectionate 
 
 EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samll. B. Webb, he is lately been exchanged, 
 North Branch Rariton, New Jersey. 
 
 1 Azunah Hackley was a private and filer in Webb s regiment. 
 
 2 Alexander Scammell, of New Hampshire, now Adjutant General 
 of the Continental army. 
 
 3 John Palsgrave Wyllys, major in Webb s regiment. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 149 
 
 FROM ELISHA HOPKINS. 
 
 HARTFORD, January 24th, 1781. 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 In sixteen days after my arival at this place I received 
 Orders from Maj Wyllys to join at or before the first day 
 of February. You, my dear Colonel, are not ignorant of 
 the unhappy surcumstance of my parent and the situation 
 in which my affairs were thrown by the consequencies. 
 Now I leave you, My Dear Col., to judge whether it s in 
 my power to join by the first of February, or even the first 
 of March, setting aside my procuring necessarys for the 
 campaign, and your expectations of my not joining untill 
 sometime in the spring. I have wrote Maj. Wyllys very 
 particular, and am convinced he will see the impossibility 
 of my joining by the time ordered. No young man wishes 
 to serve in the army more than myself, but if I must join 
 immediately my only alternative is this: Resign or be 
 ruined. The former is Death, the latter distruction. 
 Adieu, My Dear Colonel, and believe me to be your most 
 Obedient most Humble servant, 
 
 E. HOPKINS. 
 
 P. S. Lockwood has gave me from under his hand that 
 whatever was said respecting his calling me a Coward was 
 false. 
 
 Addressed to Webb, "Connecticut Line, honored by Major Bull." 1 
 
 1 Epaphras Bull, Major of the 1st Continental Dragoons, com 
 manded by Col. Stephen Moylan. He died in 1781, in Virginia, just 
 previous to the investment of Yorktown. 
 
I5O FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 FROM SAMUEL H. PARSONS. 
 Sir: 
 
 You will please to send such Non Com[missioned] Officers 
 in pursuit of your Deserters as you find necessary and think 
 prudent. Your humble servant, 
 
 S. H. PARSONS. 
 [HIGHLANDS], I9th February, 81. 
 
 FROM ASHBEL RILEY. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, February 26th, 1781. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 By your man Richard I imbrace the opportunity to con 
 gratulate you on being exchanged from the Enemy - 
 but find you are not willing to be free, but have made your 
 self a prisoner in a much happier prison than any in New 
 York. Sir, I am in my turn a prisoner to Capt. Samuell 
 Thompson, who commands the America, a British 64- 
 Gunship. A very worthy gentleman commands her. He 
 used me with all the compl[a]isance possable for a prisoner. 
 I am now on parole, and when I shall be sent for God only 
 knows, but hope not soon. Sir, I got home to Wethersfield 
 the 1 8th of December, and the 22nd Mrs. Riley was de 
 livered of a fine Daughter, and I hope soon to hear of your 
 being in the same way. In haste, Sir, with Mrs. Riley s 
 and my best compliments to Col. Webb and his lady, I 
 remain yours, 
 
 ASHBEL RILEY. 
 
 Addressed to Webb "att Camp, per favor of R. Bacon." 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 151 
 
 FROM MOSES HAZEN. 1 
 
 FISHKILL, March 2d, 1781. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Inclosed you have a letter which I was desired to for 
 ward. I beg to know if Genl. Parsons is returned; if not, 
 when he is expected. I find it will not be in my power to 
 set out for Philadelphia as soon as I proposed. I am, 
 Dear Sir, Yours most sincerely, 
 
 MOSES HAZEN. 
 
 FROM JOHN COCHRAN. 
 
 NEW WINDSOR, March 4th, 1781. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I was favored with yours of the 28th ultimo this day; 
 also another of a former date, which I did not answer be 
 cause of no opportunity. The machine I ordered to be 
 sent me with all possible dis patch, and I hope to receive it 
 soon. 
 
 I have not wrote to the Governor because I have ex 
 pected to set out for that place for the 10 days last past, 
 and shall get under way for it tomorrow morning, and you 
 may depend every power of mine shall be exerted to obtain 
 the desire of Mrs. Bancker. 
 
 I am sorry for her situation, and shall omit no opportun 
 ity of rendering her my best services. 2 Take care of your- 
 
 1 One of the officers of the British army who joined the patriotic 
 side. 
 
 2 Dr. Cochran attended Mrs. Webb until it became necessary to 
 remove her to Connecticut. He was Director General of Military 
 Hospitals, and a native of Pennsylvania. Settled for a time in Albany, 
 he married Gertrude, a sister of General Schuyler. 
 
152 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 self and give my love to Mrs. Webb, my favorite, Mrs. 
 Bancker and family, and believe me, Dear Sir, Yours most 
 sincerely, 
 
 JOHN COCHRAN. 
 
 Addressed to Webb "North Branch to be left at Mr. Van Veghten, 
 Rariton." 
 
 FROM PETER ROBERTSON. 
 
 PRESTON, March i/th, 1781. 
 Dear Col: 
 
 I have seen Thos. Hallet, 1 soldier, that you sent home 
 in search of one Fanning, 2 which duty he has performed 
 with great spirit and allacrity, and as Hallet is going on 
 with a number of Recruits shall send Fanning on under his 
 care. 
 
 Sir, I have never had any sergeant, drum or fifer; should 
 be glad if the Col. would send me a smart active Sergeant, 
 also a drumer and fifer, as they would be of great ser 
 vice to me in collecting the Recruits, also in taking out 
 Deserters. 
 
 Should be very glad to receive the direction, if [you] has 
 any to send, concerning the Recruiting Business. 
 
 I am, sir, your most obedient Humble servant, 
 
 PETER ROBERTSON, Lieut. 
 
 1 Of Preston, transferred to Webb s regiment in May, 1780, and 
 enlisted "for the war." 
 
 2 Two of the name were in Webb s regiment. David Fanning of 
 Groton, in Sherburne s regiment, was discharged early in 1780. 
 The second was Elisha Fanning, also of Groton, and also in Sherburne s 
 regiment, but was transferred to Webb s and served until February, 
 1781, when he received his discharge. The latter is doubtless intended. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 153 
 
 N. B. Hallet has been petitioning me for to write you 
 in his behalf for you to let him return home under the 
 sanction of his being my waiter. If this can be done 
 without injuring the service should be glad. 
 
 P. R. Li. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH BARRELL. 
 
 BOSTON, I Qth March, 1781. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Your Corporal s return from his Furlough gives me op 
 portunity to answer your favors received by him and Col. 
 Greaton. 1 By the latter I find you was in good spirits, 
 tho illy provided with necessaries. If you was reduced 
 to the situation you mention upon other occasions, viz. 
 kneeling, it might be better for your soul, and I m positive 
 if you could exchange your Hot N. Eng. for Satisfaction 
 Wine it would be abundantly so for your body. Try the 
 former yourself and when you put it in my power I will 
 the latter as far as a bottle will go; for there is one lain by 
 the back of the shelf for the reception of your better self. 
 Methinks I see Hetty licking her chops ^ for the Jade loves 
 Satisfaction. But by this time I conclude you are better 
 pleased than to be here, even if many bottles of the same 
 liquor was at command. One single draught of that self 
 same something which I call the hight of friendship with 
 the object dearly beloved and justly esteemed, is as far 
 superior to all the pleasures of Sense, as Heaven with its 
 blessings is to Earth with its two thousand anxieties. And 
 you informed me in your last that you are going to the 
 
 1 John Greaton, colonel of the 3d Massachusetts Regiment, Conti 
 nental line. 
 
154 FAMILY LETTER^ 
 
 Jersies where, if Fame says true, you have ample room for 
 those enjoyments which is the alone [only] sweetner of 
 life. Give my love to the dear Object, and tell her I hope 
 by and by to have the pleasure of being admitted in the 
 friendly way to kiss her once at least. I observe your 
 proposal with respect to supplying you officers. I wish 
 it was in my power to do it, but for myself I am entirely 
 out of goods, having sent all mine to Merrils at Hartford. 
 Nor are any of the gentlemen you mention (nor some others 
 that Fve applyd to) better prepared, so that I think no 
 dependance can be had this way. Your soldiers notes no 
 doubt are good, unless the Devil gets in the government, 
 and then they can reduce them as they please; not right 
 eously but in an arbitrary way, in which many things are 
 now done that will by and by make the actors blush, at 
 least, that is, if they are not past it. Martha is Martha 
 still, and having said this, tis appology sufficient for her 
 not writing our new Sister. She threatens it day by day, 
 but I ve known people older than she that have resolved 
 and re-resolved but died the same. Our love to Kitty. 
 We expect her in the spring, but how she is to get here we 
 know not; but let women alone for inventions. I had as 
 many seeds and roots as cost me 16 Guineas at Statia, 
 sent there from Amsterdam to be forwarded; but the 
 Tarnel Britons have got them. I wish, therefore, if you 
 have any seeds of any sort, / mean garden, that you would 
 send me some of each for use and ornament; but if you 
 have none, I beg you will not send me any. 
 
 I hope in God the present Campaign will end the war 
 and that you return unhurt (or at least only wounded in a 
 finger or so) with Laurels as many as you can stagger under; 
 and may your Betsy and 40 Brats long enjoy in peace the 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 155 
 
 well earned honors of warfare is the wish of, Dear Sam, 
 Your friend and Brother, 
 
 J. BARRELL. 
 
 FROM JOHN HARTE. 
 
 HARTFORD, March 28th, 1781. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I would be glad to be informed whether you expect to be 
 at home any time this spring or in the first of the summer. 
 If so, should wish to see you to settle our accounts, as I 
 am very desirous to do it as soon as possible. If you 
 should not be at home in Connecticut, I must make a 
 journey down to the Regiment where tis likely you may 
 be found in May or June. If you should be at home I 
 wish you to bring with you the papers relating to our 
 affairs; but if not, to desire your Brother Joseph Webb to 
 furnish me with them if at Wethersfield, in case they may 
 be wanted. It is impossible to take out the balance of the 
 account without transferring the account of money charged 
 to me by mistake. 
 
 Please to make my compliments to the gentlemen of the 
 Regiment, and believe me with great esteem your friend 
 and obedient servant, 
 
 JOHN HARTE. 
 
 N. B. Mr. Burr has the Receipts on the back of the 
 old Inlistments in his keeping. 1 
 
 1 On the outside: "To be left at Mr. Vanvacters, Rariton Bridge, 
 New Jersey." It is endorsed as answered May 27, 1781. 
 
156 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM MANNING MERRILL. 
 
 n . WETHERSFIELD. March 28th, 1781. 
 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 The inclosed letter for your good sister I had the honor 
 to receive from Mrs. Barrell, in Boston, ten days past, 
 who I left in great spirits. She wishes sincerely to have 
 your sister Hetty come and spend the summer in .Boston 
 for several very urgent reasons. Mr. Barrell would be 
 made exceedingly happy by your company, as he very 
 rarely introduces a bottle of Old Satisfaction without men 
 tioning your name. I intended to have had the pleasure 
 of delivering the inclosed, personally, but business will 
 prevent at this time. 
 
 I have just made a purchase of a very excellent cask of 
 Madeira Wine, and thank God I have a few Hds. of very 
 old spirits, which if you can propose a method of safe 
 conveyance now, or a few weeks hence, I shall be able to 
 supply you. And as I am now in your debt to a small 
 amount, be kind enough to command me. Though un 
 known to your Lady, please to assure her I have set her 
 down as one of the finest women in the Universe, as I am 
 well assured the person She has is deserving of such a 
 caracter. My best compliments to your sister. Inform her 
 that Mr. and Mrs. Barrell sincerely wish her company the 
 coming season. 
 
 Your Br[other] Jack is playing the dirty game of all 
 fours in company with S. Chester, and they are very talka 
 tive. Jack swears and Chester cusses. I bid you adieu 
 with sincerity. I am your friend, M. MERRILL. 
 
 Addressed: To Colo. Saml B. Webb, North Branch Rariton, New 
 Jersey. Per favor of Capt. Bulkly. To be left at Mr. Vanvacters, 
 Rariton bridge. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 157 
 
 FROM ISRAEL STRONG. 1 
 
 EAST WINDSOR, April 29th, 1781. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 This is the third time that I have Wrot to you to aquant 
 you with the resones of my not joining the Regiment. 
 But was informed by Maj. Wyllys last week that my letters 
 never arrived at the Regment, for which reson I writ 
 once more to aquant you that it is not in my power to 
 join aney mor, for which resons I would be much oblige 
 to your honnor to seliset me a discharge. I could wish to 
 come myself but I have not money a nuf in the world 
 to bare my expences to the Regt., nether is it in my power 
 to get it. Sir, your compliance with this request will 
 gratley oblige your most obdt humble servt., 
 
 ISRAEL STRONG. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam ll B. Webb, 3rd Connecticut Regt, or the 
 officer comd. 
 
 FROM RALPH PoMEROY. 2 
 
 HARTFORD, 23d May, 1781. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have taken unwearied pains to procure waggon horses 
 in vain. Gov. Trumbull wishes to have it done. I can- 
 
 1 He was a sergeant in the 2d Regiment Connecticut Line, com 
 manded by Col. Charles Webb, and in July, 1780, received a lieuten 
 ant s commission. Paid, probably, in soldiers notes, he experienced the 
 common difficulty of obtaining more than a part of the face value. 
 
 2 In 1777 he was paymaster of the 3d Regiment, Connecticut line, 
 and was retired by consolidations in 1781, having a lieutenant s com 
 mission. He then entered the Quartermaster s Department of the 
 Connecticut State troops. 
 
158 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 not do it without making use of force or bargaining for 
 money, either of which is out of my power. 
 
 You will please to acknowledge the [receipt] of the 
 waggon, harness, &c. I am, sir, your most obedient and 
 humble servant, 
 
 RALPH POMEROY, 
 Dep. Quar. Master. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Saml. B. Webb, Weathersfield. 
 
 FROM SAMUEL LOUDON. 
 
 FISHKILL, 28th May, 1781. 
 Sir: 
 
 The Post arrived here from Morristown last night, but 
 had no letters for you. I will inquire at the Post whether 
 he saw letters for you in Morristown; but tis probable 
 that letters for you that may have come to that office are 
 sent to Rarritan. I am, Sir, Your obdt Servt., 
 
 SAMUEL LOUDON. 
 Addressed: Col. Sam l B. Webb, Hutts. 
 
 FROM JOHN KEESE. 
 
 FISHKILL, 3Oth May, 1781. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I received your favor of yesterday by Sergt. Nicholson. 
 I have done all I could on the occasion, which was to 
 write a very urgent request to the justices to give every 
 assistance w r ith teams and forage that Richard Bacon * 
 
 1 A private in Webb s regiment and captured with his commander 
 in December, 1777. He came from Wethersfield. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 159 
 
 should apply for. I have requested them to forward it 
 here with all possible dispatch, and promised to pay for 
 the transportation out of the first money that may be 
 received. 
 
 Colonel Hughes l is gone to Albany. I cannot there 
 fore give a positive order on Major Campbell 2 or Keese, 
 who is at King s Ferry, for a cart or waggon for the pur 
 pose you mention. I am very certain that either of them 
 will furnish on your application if in their power. 
 
 I am, dear sir, with much respect Your very obedient 
 servant, 
 
 JOHN KEESE, 
 D. Q. M. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Sam l B. Webb, Highlands. 
 
 FROM TEUNIS BOGERT. 
 
 CONT[INENTA]L VILLAGE, 31 May, 1781. 
 Sir: 
 
 I received yours of this date this moment in the absence 
 of Major Campbell whom I hourly expect. We have one 
 two-horse wagon at this port, which is almost constantly 
 employed in hauling provisions for troops in this vicinity, 
 which I almost think Major Campbell will be able to 
 spare from that service by the time you will want it. It 
 is now much out of repair having broke down on the road 
 with provisions between this and New Hampshire Hutts, 
 and will be in order as soon as the carpenters can do it, 
 which will be in two or three days. If you will be so kind 
 and send your lad down Saturday forenoon, Major Camp- 
 
 1 Hugh Hughes, of New York, Assistant Quartermaster General. 
 
 2 Donald Campbell, of New York, Deputy Quartermaster General. , 
 
l6o FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 bell will then give a positive answer. In whose behalf I 
 am your most humble servant, 
 
 THEUNIS BOGERT. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Sam l B. Webb, Connecticut Hutts, 
 
 FROM JOHN DuRKEE. 1 
 
 CAMP, June 1st, 1781. 
 Dear Colo: 
 
 As it belongs to your Regiment to furnish a Capt. (for 
 command with Col. Scammell), Capt. Parsons has re 
 turned, and your Regiment must relieve him. I am, Dear 
 Col., Your most obedient Humble Servant, 
 
 JOHN DURKEE. 
 Addressed: Colo. Webb. Present. 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 CONNECTICUT CAMP, yth June, 1781. 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 The inclosed is a letter received last evening by Ser 
 jeant Evens, 2 accompanied with two more from Lieut. 
 Strong, 3 requesting your Honor, (as he stiles you) to send 
 on his discharge as his situation is such he cannot come 
 after it. Am sorry for the loss of the srub [shrub]. Im 
 mediately on hearing the loss of it I sent of half a bottle 
 with hopes it might meet you at the Village, but was too 
 late. 
 
 1 Colonel of the 4th Regiment, Connecticut line. 
 
 2 Abiathar Evans, of Hartford, and in Capt. David Parsons s 
 company. 
 
 3 Israel Strong. See p. 157, supra. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB l6l 
 
 General Parsons arrived at his Hutt last evening, but 
 as yet have not seen him. 
 
 Please to present my love to the ladies of your family, 
 and believe to be with every sentiment of Esteem, Dear 
 Col., your Most obedient servant, 
 
 EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 N. B. I send on a bottle of srub by Chadwick. 1 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, North Branch Rariton, New 
 Jersey. Per Chadwick. 
 
 COURT MARTIAL. 
 
 At a Regimental Court Martial, held in Camp 2 this 
 27th day of June, 1781, by Order of Colo Webb. 
 
 Capt. [Otho Holland] WILLIAMS, Presdt.; Capt. [Tim 
 othy] ALLYN Lieut. [Daniel] BRADLEY, Members, was 
 try d Sergt. Hezekiah Betts of the 8th Company, Con- 
 fin d for Neglect of Duty. 
 
 To the above Charge the Prisoner pleads not Guilty. 
 
 Lieut. [John] Meig s 3 being sworn, informs the Court 
 that the Prisoner has for some time past done the Duty 
 of Orderly Sergt. to the 8th Company; that he has fre 
 quently bro t his men for Duty into the Parade, with dirty 
 Arms, deficient in Cartridges, and Slovenly in their dress, 
 contrary to the directions he (the Witness) has frequently 
 given him. 
 
 Capt. Allyn, a member of the Court informs, that the 
 
 1 Two of the name, William and James, were in Webb s regiment, 
 but neither was attached to Bulkley s company. 
 
 2 Peekskill. 
 
 3 Adjutant of the regiment. 
 
l62 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Prisoner has generally been negligent in his duty, that 
 he has frequently directed him to report those men in 
 the Company who were negligent in attention to their 
 Arms dress, &c., when going on Duty, that the Prisoner 
 never did report any, altho the adjt. has frequently found 
 fault with the appearance of the men. 
 
 The Prisoner in his Defence says that he has ever been 
 as attentive to his Duty as any Sergt. in the Regt., but 
 that the Situation of the Company has been such as 
 rendered it impossible for them to make a decent appear 
 ance. At the request of the Prisoner Lt. [Isaac] Keeler, 
 being Sworn, informs the Court, that the Prisoner did 
 the Duty of Orderly Sergt. in the 2d Regt. in the Company 
 in which the Witness was for two or three months, and 
 that he never observ d any neglect or inattention in the 
 Prisoner, but ever found him a good and faithful Sergt. 
 
 The Court having Considered the Evidence and the 
 Defence of the Prisoner are of Opinion, that the Prisoner 
 is Guilty and do Sentence him to be Reduced to the 
 Ranks. 
 
 O. H. WILLIAMS. Presdt. 
 
 FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. 
 
 HARTFORD, July 3, 1781. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 I inclose a memorial in your name for Mrs. Bancker 
 to go into New York inclosed in the permission. 1 You 
 will put in her Christian name, and send it to me, that it 
 
 1 Webb, Correspondence and Journals, II, 347. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 163 
 
 may be entered in the records of Connecticut (?). I am, 
 Dear Webb, Yours sincerely, 
 
 J. WADS WORTH. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Samuel B. Webb, Con l Army, Phillipsburg. 
 
 COURT MARTIAL. 
 
 The Regimental Court Martial appointed by an order 
 of the nth Inst., of which Capt. [Samuel William] Wil 
 liams is President, met agreeable to adjournment this 
 1 3th day of July, and proceeded to the Tryal of Michael 
 Minthorn, soldier in the 4th Company, 1 confined for alter 
 ing a pass and attempting to desert. The prisoner pleads 
 guilty of altering the pass, but not of attempting to desert, 
 and says that one Kelogg, an acquaintance of his, advised 
 him to alter the pass and go home; in consequence of which 
 he did it, but soon altered his mind, and was determined 
 to return immediately to the Regiment when he was 
 taken up. 
 
 After due consideration the Court are of opinion that 
 the Prisoner is guilty of the charges alledged against him, 
 and do sentence him to receive 50 lashes upon his naked 
 back. 
 
 S. W. WILLIAMS, Capt. and Presdt. 
 
 [PHILLIPSBURGH.] 
 
 Capt. Joseph Walker, of Stratford. 
 
164 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 COURT MARTIAL. 
 CAMP NEAR DOBBS S FERRY, 7th August, 1781. 
 
 Agreeable to Regimental Orders a Court sat this day 
 for the Tryal of such Prisoners as shall be brought before 
 them. 
 
 Capt. [Elisha] Hopkins President 
 
 Lieut [Isaac] Keeler, Ensn. [Aaron] St. John, Members. 
 
 The Court proceeded to the tryal of William Hughes of 
 the 3d Company, 1 charged with fighting and making a 
 disturbance in Camp at unseasonable hours. The Pris 
 oner pleads not guilty. The evidences, Corporal [Thomas] 
 Stone 2 and John Roberts, 3 being sworn say that the Pris 
 oner was laying on the ground as they imagined asleep, 
 and that they saw Jesse Mathews 4 of the 5th Regiment 
 go towards him with an effigy, and that some one of the 
 Company ordered the effigy to pay obedience to the 
 Prisoner, and that Matthews in turning round with the 
 effigy struck him across the face, upon which he imme 
 diately arose and struck Matthews twice. 
 
 Jacob Gillet a soldier in the 8th Company being charged 
 with sleeping on his post, the Prisoner pleads guilty. But 
 in his own vindication says that the night preceeding he 
 was deprived of his sleep by a sore on his foot, and the 
 night preceeding that he was on Picquet. 
 
 The Court are of the oppinion that Hughs is guilty of 
 disturbance in Quarters, and do sentence him to be under 
 
 1 Capt. Stephen Betts, of Norwalk. 
 
 2 Of Hopkins own company. 
 
 3 Of Capt. Samuel Comstock s company, in the 5th Regiment, 
 Lieut. Col. Isaac Sherman. 
 
 4 Of Capt. Nehemiah Rice s company, 5th Regiment. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 165 
 
 the drill eight hours in twenty-four for three days when 
 of duty. And that Gillet receive fifty lashes on his 
 naked back. E. HOPKINS, President. 
 
 FROM DAVID PARSONS. 1 
 o WESTPOINT, I2th Aug., 1781. 
 
 I am relieved at Fishkill, and [am] now at the Point. 
 Am at present much out of health. Lieut. Parsons 2 in 
 formed me he sent twenty-six hard dollars by one Ebenezer 
 Burbank 3 for me. I have some time since given direc 
 tion that the money should be left with you. If you 
 should have it, or know of any that hath it, would oblidge 
 me to have it sent by Sergt. Spencer. 4 With a trembling 
 hand I subscribe myself Your humble servant, 
 
 D. PARSONS. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam ll B. Webb. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, August i8th, 1781. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I have just got my Carpenters to work on my Frame, 
 and you will readily allow I am busy enough. Indeed I 
 know not which way to turn, and I wish to get through 
 
 1 Of Enfield, a captain in Webb s regiment. He died November 
 15, 1781. 
 
 2 Jabez Parsons, in the same regiment until he resigned, May 4, 
 1781. He was in David Parsons company. 
 
 3 Burbank had served under Capt. Simeon Sheldon at Guilford and 
 New Haven in July, 1779. 
 
 4 Thomas Spencer, in Capt. Nehemiah Rice s company, 5th Regi 
 ment, Connecticut line, Lieut. Col. Isaac Sherman. 
 
l66 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 with my multiplicity of business. I trust the Barn once 
 finished will be of much consequence to me, and I shall then 
 have done with building, which at best is very trouble 
 some. Your sister W[ebb] is far from being well. She de 
 sires to be remembered. She and indeed all of us are 
 quite anxious to hear of the recovery of poor Betsy, and 
 we much wish for our sake and Sally s more particular that 
 Hetty was here. Indeed in ten days Sally will be with us. 
 Barrel owns J^th of the valuable Prize brought into New 
 London by Dudley Saltonstall. 1 Cant you or Friend 
 Jerry 2 contrive to get Hetty to camp. I ll come or send 
 for her. 
 
 Richard uses me ill about the sadle, bridle, straps, 
 halters, etc. etc. he took from here. I have wrote you 
 several times, but cant hear a word. I enclose you the 
 last New London papers, which keep safe with your bag 
 gage to return, as it breaks my sett. I am, Dear brother, 
 yours, [No signature.] 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, American Camp. Per Capt. 
 Watson. 
 
 FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON. 
 
 22 Aug., 1781. 
 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have directed Hallet to the Regiment for several 
 articles. Among the other people to call on have directed 
 him to call on you, and exchange three spoons which he 
 
 1 In command of the Minerva, a Connecticut brigantine, carrying 
 sixteen guns, and a crew of one hundred and twenty men. Thomas 
 Mumford and John Chevenard were interested with him. 
 
 2 Wadsworth. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 167 
 
 got some time since, and to get a pair of your Horn Tum 
 blers, which I supposed you would lend me. 
 
 The Fifer you promised to me has not yet arrived. 
 Must beg you will send him this day, as Col. Scammell 
 has directed me to call on you for that purpose. 
 
 As yet not a single word has transpired by which we 
 may conjecture where we are going; but should we march 
 by the N[orth] Branch, may I presume to say you send 
 your Love. Adieu. EBEN. HUNTINGTON. 
 
 I wish you to send me two of my best camp chairs, or 
 two of your short ones. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Webb. 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 CAMP AT PEEKSKILL, 28th August, 1781. 
 Dear Colo: 
 
 The inclosed I received last evening by Kellogg, 1 and 
 agreeable to your directions have this morning sent off 
 [James] Chadwick, by whom I have sent Briton, both of 
 which hope will get safe to hand. Six recruits have joined 
 since your departure from this. Belding 2 through a mis 
 take carried off Mr. [John] Megg s surcingle, which you 
 will please to send back by Chadwick. Nothing of con 
 sequence has happened since you left this, except the 
 arrival of a beautiful new painted waggon, drawn by four 
 Elligant Dapple Grays, and escorted by a Sub. and 27 of 
 Jonas chosen Band. (Real Dandy is now plenty.) 
 
 I hope you may find Mrs. Webb perfectly from her 
 
 1 Stephen Kellogg, of Elisha Hopkins company. 
 
 2 Abraham Belding, of Captain Bulkley s company. 
 
l68 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 late Illness. My best wishes attend you and the Ladies 
 of your Cottage, to whom I beg you to present my most 
 respectful compliments. 
 
 I am, dear Col., with sentiments of regard and esteem 
 your most Obedient Servant, EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, North Branch Rariton, New 
 Jersey. By Chadwick, Soldier 3d Connt. Regt. 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 CAMP, PEEKSKILL HEIGHTS, 24th September, 1781. 
 
 The inclosed letters I received three days since, and 
 should have been happy in forwarding them sooner had 
 it been in my power. General Huntington informed me 
 this day that you had obtained indulgence to transport 
 your family by way of New York to Connecticut. I con 
 gratulate you on this happy event. I could wish myself 
 with you to assist your amiable family through such a 
 Tower, (but this cannot be). 
 
 I am informed by Mr. Dikinson that he left your friends 
 at Wethersfield well four days since. Mr. and Mrs. 
 Barrell was anxiously waiting the arrival of your family 
 at that place. The West Point detachment joined two 
 days since. We are anxiously waiting a confirmation of 
 the intelligence received yesterday from New York. The 
 British Fleet are well drubbed. 
 
 Williams, Riley, Meigs, and Dr. Rose, have obtained 
 leave of absence and are gone home; Capt. [Timothy] 
 Allen and [Timothy] Taylor on command. Judge our 
 situation. Altho I wish you hear, yet cannot expect you 
 to come in your present distressed circumstances. We 
 do everything in our power. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 169 
 
 Please to present my respectfull compliments to your 
 lady and family. You will please to inform me by the 
 first opportunity if you proceed to Connecticut by water. 
 I am, Dear Col, your Most obedient servant, 
 
 E. B. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, North Rariton Branch, New 
 Jersey. To the care of Mr. Vanvacters, Rariton Bridge. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 [WETHERSFIELD, 13 November, 1781.] l 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 We are happy to hear you are so far on your way here. 
 Tell Betsy, Hetty and all, we shall receive you all with 
 open arms. I wou d come down to the Vessel and con 
 trive the best way to get you here, but unfortunately I 
 am obliged to be at Hartford this morning. I think a 
 pretty letter wou d be best for Betsy, kind friends and 
 Doer. Jepson, 2 Orion Air, &c., &c., I hope I will raise her 
 soon. The Carriage shall be ready and a litter; both the 
 latter I think most of. As for the house I think Barny 3 
 will do the best He can to accommodate you. He s be 
 haved well. I wish it had been possible for you to have 
 Come up yourself instead of Richd. Barny is not agoing 
 to Hartford untill Spring, but yet perhaps you may all 
 live comfortably together. But let this not trouble you. 
 Possession is much. Say but little and Barny will do well 
 
 1 Endorsed as "received on board sloop at Middle[town]." 
 
 2 Dr. William Jepson, of Hartford, who was associated with Dr. 
 Sylvester Gardiner of Boston in the sale of drugs. 
 
 3 Barnabas Deane, whose house Webb wished to occupy. 
 
I7O FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 I trust. I have sent you 23 dollars. Its the best I cou d 
 do. Give my love to all the Circle, and believe me 
 Sincerely, Your Aff. Friend and Brother, 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 If the Wind holds N. W., by all means I advise the 
 litter. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM CONSTABLE. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA, i^th November, 1781. 
 Dear Sam: 
 
 I wrote you the 4th in answer to yours of the 2d instant, 
 since which several arrivals from the Havana by whom I 
 have J. S[eagrove] s letters of the loth, I2th and isth 
 ultimo. In these he marks us flour best comn., 22 @ 24 
 Dls., rising; Beef and Pork, 40 Dlrs; Bees Wax, I Dlr., 
 and naval stores in great demand. He advises that freights 
 can be procured for good vessels from that port to Cadiz or 
 Amsterdam at 18 Dlrs per box for sugars. Hogs lard 
 would also answer well at their Mkt. I sincerely hope 
 Mrs. Webb will receive benefit by her trip by sea. Re 
 member me to your Brother. I am yours, 
 
 W T M. CONSTABLE. 
 
 Price current 
 
 Rum 9/ 
 
 Sugars Havana 8 @ lod 
 
 Muscad 657 @ 75/ 
 
 Barr Iron 33 
 
 B:Tea 6/ 
 
 Russia Duck 8 
 
 Coffee 1/4 
 
 Salt 17/6 
 
 Bills on France 5/6 @ yd p 5 [livres] 
 
 Dry Goods 2/6 @, 3/ p livres 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 PEEKSKILL, I4th November, 1781. 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 I hope this may find you and Family safe arrived at 
 Wethersfield, and in much better health than when I last 
 heard from you. Capt. Riley will do me the honor to 
 deliver this, and will be able to inform you any particulars 
 respecting your Regiment Have long wished for you to 
 join (for many reasons) but in a particular manner at this 
 time, as cloaths are expected to be delivered in a short 
 time to cloth the army and are to be made up under the 
 particular directions of Commanding Officers of Regi 
 ments. If you cannot be present I wish you to communi 
 cate your wish and directions concerning them. Your 
 waggon and baggage have sent up to the Connecticut 
 Hutts, and is under the care of Capt. Williams, who is 
 superintending the party that are repairing them. We are 
 impatiently waiting to git into W[inter] Quarters, and as 
 soon as that is accomplished shall endeavor to git indul 
 gence to return home, which hope you will not object to. 
 Your bay mare is just come in, and not in very good order 
 either. Your directions may be necessary concerning 
 her; but should I not receive them before I set out for 
 W[ethersfiel]d shall ride her, as I have sold myne. Proper 
 care shall be taken of her. Capt. P. 1 is to retire as those 
 officers did in 80, and will Quit in a short time. 
 
 You will please to present my most respectfull compli 
 ments to your Lady and Family. 
 
 David Parsons (?). See p. 165, supra. 
 
172 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 I have the honor to be with sentiments of esteem, Dear 
 Col., your affectionate Friend, 
 
 EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Sam l B. Webb, Wethersfield. Hon d by Capt. 
 Riley. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 RIDGFIELD, 28th November, 1781. 
 
 My Unfortunate and Worthy Brother: 
 
 I am at a loss to express the sorrow I feel for your loss; 
 a greater I am sure you can never experience. 1 Then my 
 amiable friend is gone to her Blessed Saviour. I think 
 she is very happy, for a person of her sweet and noble dis 
 position cannot fail of being happy in the other state, 
 tho your loss, my Valuable Br[other], is not, nor can it be, 
 made up. I feel more than I can express for the loss. 
 May the Great Ruler of the Universe through the merits 
 of our Blessed Saviour pardon my Sweet Sister and receive 
 her parted Soul into his Blessed abode, and help you and 
 her dear Mama bear up under the severe stroke; also our 
 mutual friend Aunt Polly. Tell them, my Friend, that 
 one who ever esteemed them feels more for them than he 
 can express, and leaves it to their generosity to judge what 
 that must be. Little did I think when I left you that that 
 was the last time I should see my sweet sister. But why 
 should I add to your distress. You will judge, my Friend, 
 what was my feelings when I was informed of our loss; 
 nothing in life could have hurt me more. 
 
 I do not feel, my Br[other], in a mood to wright; rather 
 
 1 Mrs. Webb died November 18, 1781. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 173 
 
 to go and shut myself up in a closit, and there to shead 
 tears for my Dear Friend, That I have done in showers. 
 I wish for an opportunity to go to her Tome and pay my 
 last respects. May God bless you, my Friend, Mrs. 
 Bancker, and Aunt Polly, who I shall ever esteem more on 
 the account of our loss. My Love to all, I am yours 
 affectionately, 
 
 JOHN WEBB. 
 
 FROM EDWARD BULKLEY. 
 
 CONNECTICUT HUTTS, ist Dec. 1781. 
 
 Yours of the 27th of November was handed me last 
 evening by Belding. It confirms the Maloncholly ac 
 count I heard some few days past. My situation has been 
 similar to yours, O my greatly afflicted friend. I feel for 
 you and can pity you in your distrest situation most 
 sincerly; but alas, my friend, sympathy or pity from 
 earthly friends will not effectualy deviate the great anxiety 
 you must feel on this mournful ocasion. Therefore let me 
 recommend you to our Heavenly Father, who is abundantly 
 able and witholdeth not from a contrite heart. His grace 
 is sufficient to support and carry you through the severest 
 tryals. On him alone then let us depend for assistance, 
 that when our nearest and dearest friends are taken from 
 us we may have a friend in Heaven from whom only true 
 satisfaction can be found. I must [end], for necessity 
 bids me quit this subject and proceed to business. Your 
 letters I sent of early this morning by Sergt. Booth. 1 The 
 other lads you mention are not equal to so long a journey. 
 
 1 Walter Booth, of Capt. Samuel W. Williams company. 
 
174 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Previous to our move to Winter Quarters the General 
 ordered all public horses to be returned into the Quarter 
 Master General. Yours was among the number, we not 
 having one straw of forage to keep them on. Col. [Isaac] 
 Sherman has been so very polite as to let me have his 
 horses, but they are forty miles from this. Have this 
 day sent Sergt. Bunce 1 after them. Hope to be able to 
 git the waggon under way by Tuesday next, if nothing 
 extrodonary happens. Sergeant Bunce with a proper 
 guard will attend your baggage home. Hazard I think 
 may answer for you this winter. He will make one of the 
 guard. Have received of the paymaster eighteen pounds 
 twelve shillings, which is all that he done for you on the 
 month of February. 
 
 [Abraham] Belding sets off for Wethersfield tomorrow 
 morning. By him I send you thirty-five dollars and eigh 
 teen crowns; the remaining seven dollars shall give Ser 
 geant Bunce for expenses, as public forage is not to be 
 obtained. Those of the guard I wish not to have furloughs 
 for a longer term than 20 days; more than 20 days will 
 violate General Orders. I must postpone saying anything 
 on Regimental matters untill a more leisure moment, or 
 till I have the pleasure of seeing you at Wethersfield. 
 
 Please to remember me affectionately to your distrest 
 and mourning friends and believe me to be with great re 
 gard and esteem your affectionate Friend and most obedi 
 ent servant, 
 
 [No signature.] 
 
 N. B. Chapen has had only one pair of shoes. 
 Addressed: Col. Sam l B. Webb, Wethersfield. 
 
 1 Jared Bunce, of the same company. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 175 
 
 FROM JOHN DUYCKINCK. 
 
 T^ n . NORTH BRANCH. December 4th, 1781. 
 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I received your favour of the 27th November with the 
 Mallancoly nuse of the loss of your and our worthey friend, 
 Eliza, a girl who I esteemed and loved as one of my own. 
 O, my Dear Sir, the loss of our dear friend to me, Mrs. 
 Duyckinck, family, and little ones, is scancearly lamented. 
 O, it gives us comfort and consolation that we have reason 
 to hope and believe that she is now in Heavin, joining 
 with Blessed Spirits in Hallalujahes to Our God. Your 
 troubles, your difficulties, anccuaries [anxieties?] of mind 
 for our dear Betsey s recovery, has been greate. But My 
 Dear friend, when we Consider that our Dear Eliza is 
 only taken home to her Father s House from the Eivels to 
 come; that all our troubles in this wourld will soon have 
 an end; that our Disopointments and Misfortunes here 
 serve only to inform us that here we have no continuing 
 city, and that we ought to endeavour to pripare for a 
 nother world to which in a short time we will be caled; this 
 consideration ought to enable us to sit down contented under 
 the Chastesing hand of Provedence, and cherfully say, 
 Good is the Will of the Lord. 
 
 I am sensable that my dear Sisters have lost all they 
 wished for in life. But I scancerely hope they will bear 
 with fortutude; be a sured I will let your friends no the 
 loss of our Dear friend. We are extremely sorrey to find 
 Miss Webb has not recovered her helth. As soon as the 
 season will admit of it, intend to pay you a visit; in the 
 mean time hope to here from you as offen as opportunity 
 serves, as you may expect from us. My family is in good 
 
176 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 helth and joins me in our scancear love to you, Miss Webb, 
 Mrs. J. Bancker, and Policy, who intend righting to [you] 
 soon, and believe me, Dear Sir, to be your friend and 
 Humbel Servant, 
 
 JOHN DuYCKiNCK. 1 
 
 P. S. Pleas make my compliments to your Brother. 
 
 JOHN DUYCKINCK TO SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 NORTH BRANCH, December 4, 1781. 
 Dear Sister: 
 
 By Capt. Webb s of the 27th November we had the 
 Mallencoly nuse of the loss of our Dear Betsey, a loss 
 Erapareable to you, me, and my little family. I am truly 
 sensable of your distressed situation, and the difficulties 
 you have incountered with sense I saw you. But my dear 
 Sister it was all done for the best. O, when we have reason 
 to hope and believe that she is now in Heavin, this con 
 sideration ought to enable us to sit contented under the 
 chastening hand of Provedence, and Cherefully say that 
 good is the Will of God. My Dear Sister, the loss is 
 greate, but I scancearly wish and pray -that you beare it 
 with fortitude. I wish I was with you to partake in your 
 troubles. God bless you. I wish you well and hope to 
 hear from you every opportunity, as you may expect from 
 us. I entend paying you a visit as soon as the season will 
 admit of it. James and Mos. Van Kirk is well. My 
 
 1 The earliest generations of this family in America are given in 
 New York Genealogical and Biographical Record, XXIII, 33. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 177 
 
 family in good helth joins me in love to you, Mr. J. Webb, 
 Sister Policy. I am your Brother and H. Svt., 
 
 JNO. DUYCKINCK. 
 
 P. S. We hare last Sunday of our friends sense you left 
 us. Mr. Samuel Conamon, Mr. Van Vactor, and Miss 
 Polly Hude. 
 
 FROM JOHN PALSGRAVE WYLLYS. 
 
 -T. ~ . HIGHLANDS, loth December, 1781. 
 
 Dear Colo: 
 
 The day before yesterday I arrived with the Troops at 
 this post, sufficiently fatigued with our march, but all 
 pleased with what was once thought so execrable, a sight 
 of the Highlands. The news of your misfortune first 
 reached me at Philadelphia, and was confirmed at Mr. 
 Lott s; barely to say that I condole with you, does not do 
 justice to my feelings of friendship. What a man of your 
 sensibility must feel on such an occasion I think I can in 
 some degree judge. Indeed, my dear Colonel, I feel with 
 you. 
 
 Capt. Williams doubtless gives you the situation of the 
 Regiment. I am sorry it is necessary for you to be troubled 
 with such affairs now. A Field Officer must be with the 
 Regiment this winter. I shall tarry some time longer 
 than I otherwise should, had Col. Huntington been present 
 at my arrival; (but I shall not remain for more than a 
 fortnight.) I should imagine he ought not now to be 
 critical as to the expiration of his furlough. The condition 
 of our whole Line is at present very disagreeable. The 
 soldiers uneasy for want of pay and cloaths. I wish our 
 friends in Connecticut were properly sensible of the con- 
 
1/8 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 sequences which may attend it. Be so good as to present 
 my compliments to Mr. and Mrs. Webb and to your sisters. 
 Believe me, Sir, Your friend and humble servant, 
 
 JOHN P. WYLLYS. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam l B. Webb, Wethersfield. 
 
 FROM JOHN CHENEVARD. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I am informed the Bearer is called on to join his Regi 
 ment; could wish he might be permitted to tarry here 
 longer, as he s really not recovered strength enough to 
 undertake the journey. Permit me to give you a short 
 but honest narrative of the distress of the family, and then 
 judge ye whether it will not be an act of generosity and 
 humanity to leave him. His mother, an honest labourous 
 woman, had by her hands collected a sufficiency to carry 
 her thro the winter, when her eldest daughter was siezed 
 with a violent fever, which confined her seven weeks with 
 great expence and trouble. In the midst of her disorder 
 her two sons came home sick. James has recovered his 
 health in a great measure, but William is the most dis 
 tressed object I ever beheld. The friends and neighbors 
 are called in every day to see him take his final departure 
 from this world of sin, sorrow and affliction, and as he 
 appears desirous himself with sure grounds and hopes of 
 being Eternally happy, we wish to see his eyes closed that 
 he may be freed from pain. We are daily contributing 
 something to the relief of the family, everything being 
 exausted. I shouldn t interfere in this matter, was it not 
 by particular desire and knowing the Absolute Necessity 
 of this lad s tarrying to assist his mother and brother by 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 179 
 
 attachment, that he might draw his rations, &c. If I 
 have any share of your friendship and esteem, let me beg 
 the favor of you to let the lad remain on command or 
 detachment, as you judge, but till April, which will be 
 gratefully acknowledged by them as well as by, Dear Sir, 
 your affectionate friend, &c., 
 
 J. CHENEVARD. 
 Dec. 24th, 1781. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam l B. Webb, Weathersfield. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 KENSINGTON, 2yth December, [1781], 
 My Dear Brother: and I2 dock at ni S ht * 
 
 When I think of you I always think of our most valuable 
 departed Friend, and wish myself with her. How amible 
 does every past seen of hers now appear to me; when she 
 went I lost a most amible Friend, one long before I knew 
 you ever saw, I esteemed and loved. She is gone to her 
 Blessed God, who I pray of his Infinite mercy to look down 
 upon us and our amible Friends with pity and compassion 
 and fit and prepare us to bid this world adieu, and all its 
 earthly vanities, and join our Amible departed Friends in 
 Heaven. Let it comfort you my Brother when you have 
 every reason to believe that our Friend is with the Blessed 
 in Paradise. 
 
 Present my respects to Mrs. Bancker and love to Aunt 
 Polly. Tell them I intend paying them a visit in a few 
 days. I am, my friend, wishing you health and happiness. 
 Your sincere and affectionate brother, 
 
 JOHN WEBB. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam l B. Webb. Wethersfield. Per Dragoon. 
 
ISO FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON. 
 
 NORWICH, 31 December, 1781. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have drawn an order on you for fourteen dollars in 
 favor of Mr. David Nevins, it being this amount of his bill 
 for a beaver Hatt. Hope it may meet your acceptance, 
 trusting you have not forgot a wager between us which 
 enables me thus to draw upon you. I am, dear sir, Your 
 humble servant, 
 
 EBEN HUNTINGTON. 
 
 Wethersfield, 3rd January, 1781. Received of Samuel 
 B. Webb Four Pounds four shillings in full, for a Bever 
 Hat which Lt. Colonel Huntington purchased of David 
 Nevins. 1 
 
 THOMAS LATHROP. 
 
 GENERAL ORDERS. 
 
 EXTRACT FROM THE ORDERS OF His EXCELLENCY. 
 HEAD QUARTERS, PHILADELPHIA, January 10, 1782. 
 
 As it is expected that in the course of the present winter, 
 many of the officers and men belonging to the Army of the 
 United States will be indulged with leave of absence from 
 their corps for a limitted time, and as it is absolutely neces 
 sary that the strictest punctuality should be observed in 
 returning at the expiration of the time to which their fur 
 loughs are granted; the Commander in Chief has thought 
 proper thus early in the season to signify his fixed deter 
 mination to all concerned, that every officer or soldier who 
 
 1 The receipt is in the writing of Webb. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB l8l 
 
 shall absent himself beyond the limitation of his furlough, 
 unless he shall be prevented from returning by some in 
 evitable misfortune or other casualty which shall be deemed 
 a sufficient reason for his detention, shall for such conduct 
 be brought to tryal before a court martial. Upon the re 
 turn of any officer who may have violated this order by 
 absenting himself beyond the time of his furlough, report 
 is immediately to be made thereof to the Adjutant General 
 or deputy Adjutant General, who is to represent the same 
 to the General or Commanding officer that the necessary 
 steps may be taken without delay. The mode of proceeding 
 against absent officers as pointed out by a Resolution of 
 Congress is to be invariably pursued. Soldiers are also to 
 be tryed and punished in the most summary manner, if 
 they will be guilty of crimes so injurious to the public ser 
 vice as well as to the interest and feelings of their brother 
 soldiers, w^ho may in consequence of the long absence of 
 such delinquents be unevitably debared the gratifycation 
 of visiting their friends before the opening of the Campain. 
 The General, however, cannot but hope by taking the pre 
 caution of causing this public notice of his intention to be 
 given to the Army the disagreeable consequences w^ill be 
 prevented which might otherways take place; for he is 
 persuaded who ever will give himself the trouble to reflect 
 will find that as grait indulgences as are consistent with 
 the Public good and justice to individuals are granted in 
 the first instance; that as a certain number of officers must 
 be constantly kept in camp, every tresspass upon those 
 indulgencies is an act of injustice to the individual who is 
 detained in consequence of it, probably in the Issue to the 
 Public. That the most pointed exactness is indispensably 
 requisite in all military affairs, events unknown frequently 
 
1 82 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 of the graitest magnitude depending upon it; and that those 
 men who have attached themselves to the Service of their 
 Country should consider that the Public has a constant 
 clame upon their servises, which can only be dispensed 
 with under certen circumstances and for definite periods, 
 of which those interested with the regulations of the Army 
 must be supposed to be the most competent judges. No 
 Officer or Soldier is to be permitted to be absent on fur 
 lough after the loth day of April next, on any occation 
 what ever. 
 
 EDWARD HAND, Adjutant General. 
 Sir: 
 
 As it may possible be in your power to prevent many of 
 those irregularities which the inclosed orders so expressly 
 refer to, I have thought best to transmit them. 
 
 Am, Sir, with every sentiment of esteem Your obedient 
 Servant, 
 
 STEPHEN 
 CAMP [HIGHLAND HUTTS], Feby. 3, 82. 
 
 FROM ELISHA HOPKINS. 
 
 CONNECTICUT HUTTS, 3 February, 1782. 
 My Dear Colonel: 
 
 Capt. Betts at present commands the Regiment, and he 
 informs me that he has wrote you a few days since; there 
 fore I shall not be very particular, but mention a few Regi 
 mental matters. The clothing is making with as much 
 expedition as the number of Taylors will admit; but if there 
 is no addition to them we (the 3 Regt.) shall not be able 
 
 1 Of Norwalk, Conn. He was a captain in Webb s regiment and 
 served through the war. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 183 
 
 is take the field in Compleat uniform as soon as any other 
 Regiment of the Line by a month. 
 
 The Officers present have exerted themselves both for 
 the honor of the Regiment and its Commander; but still 
 it is reflected on from the circumstance of its having no 
 field officer present at this time, especially when the orders 
 are so pointed respecting it. It is on no other principal, my 
 Dear Colonel Webb, but that of real and personal Friend 
 ship that induces me to mention these circumstances to 
 you; therefore do permit me to ask you to come on to 
 Camp, if it is but for a few days. I know how sensibly your 
 and your friends misfortunes touch you, but the world in 
 general does not look threw the same perspective. I have 
 applyed to Mr. Beers for Russel s 1 wages. He will deliver 
 the money when ever Russell will give an order. I told 
 Asher what his Colonel had wrote, but he declined giving 
 an order, saying that he had given the Colonel one when at 
 Wethersfield. 
 
 That part of your baggage that was left in Camp I have 
 at my Hut. Old Jack takes care of your kitchen furniture. 
 Your goats are in good order, but one of the last year s 
 kids has a young one which will die on account of the very 
 severe weather. 
 
 Sergeant Boardman 2 will deliver this; he is able to give 
 you satisfactory answers to many questions in regard to 
 Regimental matters. He has on one of the new coats. 
 My servant this moment informs that the kid is dead. I 
 am sorry for it but I have this consolation, I shall have 
 milk for Coffee. 
 
 1 Ashur Russell, of Captain Joseph Walker s company, Webb s 
 regiment. 
 
 2 Elijah Boardman, sergeant in Captain Bulkley s company. 
 
184 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 I do not know whether my friends think of it or not, but 
 I at this moment imagine myself entitled to a furlough, 
 but [am] kept in camp from the reason of Capt. Riley s 
 not joining. What entitles him to any more indulgence 
 than myself I do not know, but it is true he has it. This 
 I mention to you as a Captain in the Regiment that you 
 command, and. under which command I have ever con 
 ceived myself happy. At this moment I have not cloths 
 decent to appear with, but I ll never ask permission for 
 absence untill it can be done consistent with duty. 
 
 The men that was inoculated have in general had it 
 light; but some are left quite low, two has died. I con 
 clude with my best compliments to all friends around you, 
 My dear Colonel, with sentiments of real esteem, Your 
 most obedient and very humble servt., 
 
 E. HOPKINS. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Samuel B. Webb, Wethersfield, Connecticut. 
 By Sergt. Boardman. 
 
 FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON. 
 
 CONNECTICUT VILLAGE, 15 February, 82. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Inclosed you will receive a packet which I found this 
 day at Col. Hull s, 1 as you will see by h is note directed to 
 you. Must beg you will send Sergt. Hosmer 2 to Camp im 
 mediately, as his presence is absolutely necessary, as Capt. 
 Hopkins will be able to inform you, to whom I refer you 
 for the more particular situation of the Regiment than my 
 knowledge will afford. 
 
 1 Col. William Hull of the Massachusetts line. 
 
 2 Prosper Hosmer, of Captain Hopkins company. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 185 
 
 Please make my affectionate compliments to Mrs. 
 Bancker, Miss Duyckink and your brother s family, and 
 believe me yours, 
 
 EBEN. HUNTINGTON. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Saml. B. Webb, Wethersfield. By Corporal 
 Horton. 
 
 ISRAEL STRONG TO CAPTAIN BETTS. 
 
 TOLLAND, February 2Oth, 1782. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Perhaps you think it strange that I have not ben to the 
 Regiment. But the reson is this. On my Returen from 
 the Regiment I met with the misfortien to fall in the River 
 at farmingtown whare I allmost ketched my dath, for I 
 have not Ben able to go three mildes from my hous sence, 
 &c. I send inclosed in this letter my Commission and Beg 
 you would Represent matters as favreabel to the Cort as 
 you can. I fling my self upon the mercey of the Cort 
 and would have matters go on the same as if I was thare, for 
 as to Being thare I cannot, as I am not able &c. Sir, I am 
 with esteem your most obedient humble servant, 
 
 ISREAL STRONG. 
 
 FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON. 
 
 CONNECTICUT VILLAGE, 2d March, 1782. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 As Captain Hopkins would on his arrival be able to give 
 you every (and indeed more) information than at that time 
 I could or can now, is the cause why I have deferred writ 
 ing from time to time. Whether you have as good reasons 
 
1 86 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 for your silence I will not pretend to determine, tho I 
 fancy you can readily. 
 
 By a late General Order Col. Stewart 1 is appointed as 
 Muster Master to the Northern Department, and Lt. 
 Colonel Tennant 2 commands Legionary Corps M. M. to 
 the Southern department, a pretty appointment for friend 
 Stewart. I expected from the conversation I had with you 
 that Hazard 3 would have joined his Regiment before this 
 time; all others mentioned in General Orders to be called 
 in, will be in immediately. Corp l Ward 4 mentioned to me 
 you wanted your Waggon harness; it was not back to 
 Wethersfield and I supposed had been returned. You will 
 please to make my Respectful Compliments to your 
 Mamma, nor would I wish to be forgotten in desiring Com 
 pliments to Aunt Polly, Hetty, and Sally, and to the rest 
 of our friendly circle. 
 
 I am, dear Sir, Your Humble Servant, 
 
 EBEN HUNTINGTON. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Webb, Wethersfield. By Sergt. Griffin. 
 
 FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON. 
 
 CONNECTICUT VILLAGE, 4th March, 82. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 This goes to Hartford by Doctor West 5 who yesterday 
 received a discharge from the Army, by which conveyance 
 
 1 Walter Stewart. 
 
 2 Jean Baptiste Ternant, once of Pulaski s legion. 
 
 3 No one of this name appears on the muster rolls of Webb s regiment. 
 
 4 Daniel Ward, of Captain Williams company. 
 
 5 Jeremiah West, of Tolland, Conn. He and John Rose were the 
 surgeons in Webb s regiment. Rose was promoted and served to the 
 close of the war. He came from Coventry. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 187 
 
 I have thought best to advise you of his discharge and to 
 recommend Doctor John Rose the Surgeon s Mate to fill 
 the birth of a Surgeon. I would also mention to you a 
 Mr. Waldo who has just compleated his time with Doctor 
 Turner, 1 to receive him if you think proper. Rose you 
 know, and General H[eath] will be able to give you every 
 necessary information about Doctor Waldo. I think unless 
 you attend to it immediately you must expect to be with 
 out a Surgeon during the Campaign, as the Governor and 
 Council are not over anxious about appointing Commission 
 or Staff Officers to fill the vacancies which happen in the 
 Line. 
 
 I am, dear Sir, yours, 
 
 EBEN HUNTINGTON. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Samuel B. Webb, Wethersfield. By Doctor 
 West. 
 
 GULIAN VERPLANCK TO MRS. BANCKER. 
 
 FISHKILL, March 2Oth, 82. 
 Madam: 
 
 There is in my possession a Bond against your late 
 Husband for seven hundred pounds, on which there will 
 be due next May seven years Interest. Mr. Evert Bancker 
 is the security who had advised me to write to you on the 
 subject. My necessities drive me to sollicit some assist 
 ance from you. I should not make this application in 
 times of such difficulty as the present if my wants were 
 
 1 Philip Turner, of Norwich, Conn. He was Surgeon General in the 
 Eastern Department, but retired in June, 1781. He had studied under 
 Dr. Elisha Tracy, his father-in-law, and was the first surgeon in Amer 
 ica to perform the operation of tying the femoral artery. He died in 
 New York in 1815. 
 
1 88 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 not extremely pressing. If you have it in your power to 
 do anything it will very much oblige me. I beg you 
 will favor me with an answer as soon as convenient. I re 
 main Your humble servant, 
 
 GULIAN VERPLANCK. 1 
 
 Addressed: Mrs. Bancker, at Mr. Joseph Webb s, Wethersfield, 
 Connecticut. 
 
 JOHN DUYCKINCK TO MRS. BAXCKER. 
 
 NORTH BRANCH, 28th March, 1782. 
 Dear Madam: 
 
 I this instant received a few lines by way of Major Blinns, 
 handed me by one of our nabours, whereby I am happy to 
 find you am in Helth, and that Policy and Miss Hette 
 Webb is recovering from there Illness. We have bean very 
 anctious to here from you, we have once heard from you 
 sence December, which was by the way of Mr. Smith to 
 Mr. Christopher Bancker. We should of [have] bean glad 
 to of [have] wrote you before, but could git no opportunity. 
 Mr. and Mrs. Nelson 2 and Family is in good helth. Your 
 old Nabours all anctious to hear from you. 
 
 The season so far advanced before I got the Mills that 
 little done to the Dams, a few sticks of timber put on the 
 last fall which was of Grate Service. We went on Prette 
 well with the business of Milling untill about the Middle 
 of December; at which time the wrighter ways between 
 
 1 Gulian Verplanck, son of Gulian and Mary (Crommelin) Ver- 
 planck, was born February n, 1751, and died November 20, 1799. In 
 1784 he married Cornelia Johnstone, by whom he had seven children. 
 His house was in Wall Street, New York. 
 
 2 John Nelson, writer of the letter on p. 191, infra. His name is 
 also spelled in some earlier letters Neilson. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 189 
 
 the fulling mill and the Griss mills gave way, and made a 
 breach and damaged the Wrighter weate and took of every 
 Bucket from the Wheale; the Weather extreme cold. Not 
 withstanding I went at it with my own hands, the next day 
 got two or three Carpenters, in two days after the Mills 
 was fitt for Busness. They continued in that manner untill 
 first of March, at which time one of the Hoops round the 
 up Strim Mill gave way, which don som little Damage 
 which was repared and the Mills gowing two days after, 
 the Ice has been very sevear. However we made out to 
 keap them gowing little or no loss time, the House excead- 
 ing cold. Wood very diffacul to come at and very bad. 
 We have got a good deal of our firewood from the Farm, 
 so as to make the wood from the Islands burn. No person 
 has made any attempts to Perchas the Mills. I fru- 
 quantly say the Mills are for sale. Godfree will not take 
 the fulling mill on Hire, I have agread with him as he for 
 merly had thim. Taxis is very High. The tax for me to 
 pay to first of June next is 18 Hard Money and State 
 27. 13. 2. Grain so exceading lo that it will be dull bes- 
 ness, we are doing some merchant work but don with a deale 
 of throuble. I fear the Mills will want a good deal of re- 
 pars. I wish I could see you and Col. Webb to consult 
 with you about the repars. If you realy intend to keeap 
 them any time they should be repared propperly. I shall 
 do every thing in my power for your interests. All your 
 relations hear in good Helth. Little Richard a find child. 
 Neaver the least out of order; rises and stands him selfe 
 by a chair, this don 10 Days a gow. Mrs. J. Duyckinck 
 and children joins me in love to you sister, Polly and Miss 
 Hette Webb, and am your affectionate Brother and H. S. 
 
 JOHN DUYCKINCK. 
 
190 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 LEVINUS CLARKSON 1 TO JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 NEW BRUNSWICK, 1st April, 1782. 
 Sir: 
 
 Your letter of the I5th December last came lately to 
 hand. It should have been immediately answered, but 
 was anxious waiting for a price current you was so obliging 
 as to say you would furnish me with before your river 
 opened. I have not been favored with a line from you 
 since. Yesterday was handed me Col. John Nelson s 
 favor, inclosing a letter from our friend Col. Webb, under 
 date the i8th February last, who makes mention of inclos 
 ing a price current, which Col. Nelson and myself suppose 
 your brother has neglected, as there was no price current 
 inclosed. It is immaterial as to myself, having but little 
 cash at command, and therefore shall freight my part 
 provided the same freight is obtained with you as is given 
 at Philadelphia. One half is given of flour for the other 
 to the Havannah in small fast sailing vessels, and two 
 fifths for large classes of ships. 
 
 Procure an experienced Commander and four seamen. 
 My part of outfits please to draw on me for, provided you 
 cant obtain the sum of one hundred pounds L[awful] 
 m[one]y, or more, for a quarter part of Sloop Jersey as she 
 now lays. Should you obtain the price limited I shall 
 have more in your hands than will fit her compleat, vict- 
 
 1 Clarkson and John Dorsius had been Continental Agents in South 
 Carolina of the Marine Committee for obtaining and shipping naval 
 stores, and Clarkson now engaged in privateer adventures. In April 
 of this year he, associated with James Hood and others, sent out the 
 brig Dandy, of eight guns, but it was a Pennsylvania vessel. In Decem 
 ber, 1781, he sent out a Connecticut schooner, the Mayflower. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 ualled, &c. Should a 74 be too much for the Adventurer 1 
 I will dispose of %th at the same lay, whatever proportion 
 I may hold in the sloop. I beg you ll freight agreeable to 
 what is given at Philadelphia. I could easily procure one 
 half was she at Philadelphia. Col. Jno. Nelson will give 
 you his order for two-sixths. If she goes to the Havannah 
 I do suppose she will [be] addressed to our friend James 
 Seagrove. If he can obtain a large price for her what 
 think you of having her sold and leaving the amount of 
 vessel and freight in Mr. Seagrove s hands, to dispose of 
 as the owners direct, to be shipped to any port they re 
 spectively order, should the shippers agree. I judge it 
 would be best that the sloop (if not sold) should return to 
 Philadelphia where sugars will fetch a better price, and I 
 am convinced by your letter the sloop will sell for consider 
 ably more should the owners incline to sell her. This 
 just depends on the shippers for liberty. Keep me in 
 formed of your proceedings that I may govern myself 
 accordingly. Remember me to the Colonel, and believe 
 me to be, Sir, Your humble servant, 
 
 LEVS. CLARKSON. 
 
 JOHN NELSON TO JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 TRENTON, 2 April, 1782. 
 Sir: 
 
 A few days ago I received your brother Col. Webb s 
 letter of i8th February last, requesting me to consult Mr. 
 Clarkson with respect to the directions to be given con 
 cerning the Sloop Jersey which I have done and his letter, 
 
 1 Neither of these vessels receives mention in the Naval Records of 
 the American Revolution. 
 
FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 which accompanies this, is in answer thereto so far as he 
 is concerned. As for the two-sixths which remains at my 
 disposal, you will also procure freight for, if it can be done 
 upon the terms mentioned in Mr. Clarkson s letter, and 
 draw upon me for the amount of the outfits of that pro 
 portion of the vessel. As soon as the cost is known please 
 to inform me of it, her destination, and other proceedings 
 respecting her from time to time. I am, Sir, with most 
 respectful compliments to your brother Your obedient 
 very humble servant, 
 
 JOHN NELSON. 
 
 I should have wrote Col. Webb in answer to his letter 
 concerning this business, but probably he may be in the 
 field which might occasion delay. 
 
 FROM HARRIET WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, yth April, 1782. 
 Sunday night, I Clock. 
 
 The hour of parting draws very near. Alas, my dear 
 Brother, when shall we again meet? Tis probable that it 
 will be a long time before I have the pleasure of seeing 
 you again. You and I shall never more have the same 
 home. How lost I shall be without you; but it must be 
 so, and I must be content. Forget me not; let not ab 
 sence lessen your affection for her who is, and ever will be, 
 tenderly interested in your happiness. Your afflictions 
 have ever been mine. Could I but lessen them by par 
 taking I should think myself happy. I have long wished 
 to say something that would alleviate your mind from its 
 present trouble, but I fear, alas, it is not in my power. I 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 very well know that your loss is very great. Parting with 
 them we love is ever a hard task; but to bid adieu to one 
 so amiable, so deservingly dear to all, requires great exer 
 tions for fortitude, lest the mind sink under its weight; this 
 world is but a scene of woe. Why are we so very foolish 
 as to expect peace and happiness while here? Tis said 
 that affliction is our best friend and that its awful lessons 
 are never so necessary as in youth. May it teach you, my 
 dear brother, patience and resignation to the divine will. 
 
 Heaven give us friends to bless, the present scene 
 Recalls them to prepare us for the next. 
 
 I cannot think it is our duty to attempt to extinguish 
 nature, but to repress it. I could not wish to stand un 
 moved at distress; but it shall be my endeavor to turn 
 every disaster to my own advantage. The dear amiable 
 friend we so much lament is happ[il]y released from all 
 pain and trouble. Why does my heart so little obey my 
 reason as to lament the happiness of my excellent friend? 
 Life at longest is but a few days; the scene ere long will be 
 closed with us; then I trust we shall meet our dear de 
 parted friends to part no more. Let it be our first care, 
 my dear brother, to make the necessary preparations for 
 that most important journey which we most assuredly 
 must take. Do my dear brother take care of your health. 
 You may rest assured that we shall do everything that is 
 in our power to make poor Mrs. Bancker happy. I hope 
 to prevail on her to pay Mrs. Huntington a visit. Perhaps 
 she will accompany me to Boston. Our dear sister will be 
 very happy to see her; the journey I am sure would be of 
 service to her. Should you write our friends in Jersey 
 remember me to them all. 
 
194 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Good night, my dear brother, wherever I am my wishes 
 for your happiness will be the same and my earnest peti 
 tions arise to heaven for the blessings and happiness I wish 
 you to enjoy. Write as often as you can, and you will 
 oblige your ever affectionate sister, 
 
 H. W. 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, April 21, 1782. 
 
 I had the pleasure this morning of receiving your favor 
 No. 2 by Russell, with a J^ Ib. tea for trial, which I shall 
 give my opinion of this afternoon. I am very sorry you 
 have by your atendance on the Court Martial bin pre 
 vented from caling on Mr. Verplank; he may think it a 
 neglect, as he desired an answer from me. I rely feel uneasy 
 about it. I hope ere this reaches you I ll have had an 
 opportunity. I wrote you a few days past by Mr. Carry 
 of Fishkill, and inclosed the two accounts you wished to 
 have. I fear he has not left Hartford yet; he has a brother 
 their. If he should not be gon yet I ll indeaver to git him 
 to take your brass candlesticks; it will be but a littel way 
 for you to send him for them. 
 
 I received a letter from Mrs. Gary with one from him to 
 you with the shous. Mine are mutch to large. Mrs. Gary 
 in her letter to me tels me she had receved some elegiac 
 lines wrote by Doctr. Cutting 1 on our Dear Departed 
 friend, but fearing it would cause a Renewal of my grief 
 she has not sent them to me. She nead not have bin 
 
 1 Dr. John Brown Cutting, of the medical service in the Eastern 
 Department. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 afraid to send them; nothing can bring her more in my 
 mind than she ever is. Blessed reflection, while I mourn 
 her loss I can look back to her past life with the pleasing 
 consolation of its haveing bin spent in innocence and vertue, 
 of witch she is now reaping a rich reward. My Dear 
 young Partenner in affliction, I only ask you to bair in 
 your mind her Vertues; they are worthy of the searious 
 reflection of all her freinds. I know you loved her and 
 admiered her for them. I have often heard you say you 
 did. 
 
 Gods dealings with us is beyond our comprehension, nor 
 have we a rite to ask him why he deals thus with us; to 
 acquies is the grand point, and hear I must confess I fall 
 short. I cannot, I do not, submit to his will as I ought. 
 You ll call me crual to dwell so long on what must give you 
 pain, but, my dear friend, you must know by experence 
 the humen hart being over charged with affliction must by 
 communicating ease it self of som of its bordon. 
 
 Your Brother s fammely are all well. I drank tea with 
 them yester day. Miss [Belinda] Smith is with us yet, 
 as is Mr. [Barnabas] Dean. I fear he dus not intend to 
 move to Harford. I have not heard him say a word of it 
 sence you left us. He told me he intended writing to you. 
 Possable he may mention it to you. General Huntington 1 
 caled to sea me sum days ago. Pressed me very mutch 
 to pay a visset to Mrs. Huntington. It was very polite 
 in him. I can not promis you weather I can bring my 
 self to do it or not. Alass, all things are alike to me. At 
 home or abroad, or wear ever I am, the same glumy ideas 
 
 1 Jabez Huntington, of the Connecticut militia, a brother of Jedidiah 
 Huntington. 
 
196 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 posess my mind I thank you for all your wishes in your 
 two affectinate letters. Continue to write me when ever 
 it is in your [power]; be ahsured it is my greatist happyness 
 to hear and know that you are well. After ading Polly and 
 Miss Smith s Love and comliments, and recomending you to 
 the care of an all Grasious Providence, I continue 
 to be your affectionate Mother, 
 
 SARAH BANCKER. 
 I have tried the tea, it is very good. 
 
 COURT MARTIAL. 
 
 Proceedings of a Brigade Court Martial held by order 
 of the Commander, 1 for the tryal of such prisoners as may 
 be brought before them. 
 
 Captain [ERASTUS] WoLcorr, 2 President. 
 
 Lieut. [SIMEON] AVERT. 1 ** i (Lieut. [ELIJAH] RANSOM. 5 
 
 Lieut. [NATHAN HAYNES] WHITING." J Me * ers * \ Ensign [PHINEHAS] BECKWITH. 
 
 The Court being duly formed proceeded to the tryal of 
 Elisha Pulford, a soldier in the 5th Regiment; James 
 Gray of the 1st Regiment; and Seth Dodge of the 3rd 
 Regiment; confined for stealing or suffering to be stole 
 
 1 Colonel Webb. 
 
 2 Of Durkee s regiment. He was from Windsor, Conn. 
 
 8 Avery, of Groton, was in Captain William Richards company, 
 Lieut. Col. Isaac Sherman s regiment. 
 
 4 Whiting, of Hartford, in Captain Williams company, Webb s 
 regiment. 
 
 6 Ransom, of Colchester, in Captain Elias StillwelPs company, 
 Col. John Durkee s regiment. 
 
 6 Beckwith, of Lyme, in Captain Simon Spalding s company, 
 Durkee s regiment. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 while on Sentry at the Com[missar]ys store, one Horse 
 man s tent, and six bars of soap. 
 
 The prisoner s being called seperately, Plead not Guilty 
 to the charge elledged against them. Com[missar]y Mor 
 gan appeared as an evidence against the prisoners, and 
 being properly sworn, says he examined the box of soap 
 at sun sett found it whole and unbroken. He further 
 says he afterward ordered his scaleman to deliver two bars 
 out of said box. He likewise says he saw the Horseman s 
 tent at the same time. 
 
 George Leidle, the scaleman above mentioned, being 
 called before the Court and sworn, says he opened the box 
 of soap, weighed and delivered out two bars; examined it 
 again in the morning and found six bars missing and like 
 wise the tent. 
 
 The Prisoners in their defence say, the back part and 
 North End of the store was open in such a manner that a 
 person might privately get in without their discovering 
 him from the situation they were posted, which was in 
 front of the store. 
 
 The Court after consideration are of opinion the Prison 
 ers are not guilty of the crimes charged against them. 
 
 ERASTUS WOLCOTT, President. 
 
 HUTTS, April 23, 1782. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM NORTH. l 
 
 The Baron is at head quarters, where I have sent the 
 Sergeant with the recommendation for Hackley s dis 
 charge. I hope he will receive a favorable answer. 
 
 The General sets out on Tuesday for Connecticut. I 
 
 1 Now aide de camp to Baron Steuben. 
 
198 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 shall esteem myself honored by being known to your 
 brother and family. The Baron will be happy to pay his 
 respects to them. The bearer will hand you some news 
 papers, which after you have read please to hand to 
 Colonel [Henry] Jackson. With the greatest respect I 
 am, My dear Colonel, Your most humble servant, 
 
 WM. NORTH. 
 
 Sunday [near FISHKILL, May, 1782.] 
 
 To ABRAHAM OGDEN. 
 
 CONNECTICUT Hurrs, HIGHLANDS ON HUDSON S RIVER, 
 
 May 2, 1782. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Att the particular request of Mrs. Bancker, my Mother 
 in Law and sole Executrix to the estate of her late Husband 
 Richard Bancker deed, I am to desire you will take the 
 earliest opportunity to inform me the particular state of 
 debt originally against Edward Lewis, now in your hands. 
 I beg you to be as particular as possible in informing me 
 of its various stages and changes since committed to your 
 charge, and likewise of the present prospects of obtaining 
 the payment. I am likewise to request your information 
 respecting the estate of Joseph Walling or his heirs. Wall 
 ing is we suppose dead. He formerly lived near Hardy 
 Town, Sussex County. Your attention and early answer 
 to the above will oblige Mrs. Bancker, as w^ell as 
 
 Your obedient and Most Humble Servant, 
 
 SAML. B. WEBB. 
 
 P. S. Be kind enough to direct for me the 3d Connecti 
 cut Regt. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 199 
 
 JOHN DUYCKINCK TO SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 , T .,-. N. BRANCH, May the 7th. 1782. 
 
 My Dear Maddam: 
 
 By Major [Benjamin] Tallmage sometime sence I reed 
 a few lines from Coll. Webb. At the Major s return I 
 wrote you, inclosed to the Coll. Make no doubt you have 
 reed, it, and should of [have] bean glad to of [have] had 
 your answer, as well to no how you and Policy is, as to give 
 sum particular directions respecting the repares of the Mills. 
 I did not no how affares was surcomstamced about the 
 Mills; therefore did not rent the Houses in Brunswick, 
 least it might of [have] bean most conveaniant for you to 
 sell the Mills, and me to quit them before my time expired. 
 If it could be consistant with your judgment I think you 
 had best sell the Mills, if an oppertunity serves; as in these 
 times they must be but a bill of cost. The marketts so 
 dul that nothing can be don in the marchant way, and the 
 grains in general so lo that the contry work will not near 
 pay the rent, taxes, and mills so that is dull business. How 
 ever I [am] now gowing to amuse my self by putting up a 
 Still for the destilling of rye and syder, and take the liberty 
 of putting of it on the Mill lott. If I can accomplish it it 
 will be of service to the sale of the Mills, by showing the 
 people that that branch of Business may be convenantly 
 carried on there. When I leave the plase shall move all 
 of. Inclosed is a letter a few days sence came to my hands 
 for you. James and his family, as also Mrs. Van Skirk, is 
 in goad helth. Evert as he always is; Richard is a fine 
 child, stands alone; John continues in Brunswick; Wil 
 liam with my little girls in good helth, as also Mother 
 Henry. All join me with Mrs. Duyckinck in our seanceare 
 love to you Policy, the Coll., and Miss Webb, and in hopes 
 
2OO FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 of seeing you here to spend a part of the summer with us, 
 and am, Dear Sister, your affectionate and Humble 
 Servant, 
 
 JOHN DUYCKINCK. 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, May 9th, 1782. 
 
 I wrote you a few lines 4th inst. by Capt. Colfax, 1 in- 
 cloasing a letter from my Brother Evert Bancker, doubt 
 not but you have received it. Baron Stuben being at 
 present at your Brothers, politly offered to be the bairor 
 of this. In your letter No. 3 you seam to think your 
 friend had neglected writing as often as they might; as 
 for my part how ever disagreable writing may be to me I 
 would not give you pain by neglecting it, nor do I know 
 of any oppertunity that has slipt me with out a line to you, 
 except the Post, and that moad of convaence I must con 
 fess I am reather fearfull of, they haveing bin frequently 
 intersepted. When you write my Brother Duyckinck 
 about the disposing of the mills you must remember to do 
 it in sutch a manner as not to interfear with time he has 
 rented them, witch is tel next May. I dont think however 
 should a purchiser offer that he would hinder the sales of 
 them, as he knows we must be at a great expence to pre 
 pare them and not intend to keep them would be folly. 
 Your attention to my affears I doubt not will help to relive 
 my mind of that burdon, and at the same time in the end 
 be an advantage to your self. The Mr. Ashmun I men- 
 
 1 He was not a captain until 1783. At this time he held rank as 
 lieutenant in Captain Selah Benton s company, 5th Regiment, Lieut. 
 Col. Isaac Sherman. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 2OI 
 
 tioned to you, your Brother has seen. A man he knows 
 where he lives and is acquanted with him. He ses he is 
 dowing very well, so that I am in hopes we shall recover 
 that monny, thoug can not say how soon. He has wrote 
 to him to call on me. You deserve to know how Phillip 
 behaved. I can asshure you he behave exseding well. 
 
 Genl. Huntingdon] and Lady came to this Town yester 
 day; they with Mr. and Mrs. Webb, Miss Blinda Smith 
 and sister Polly are gon to Hartford to see the multitude, it 
 being alection day. Miss Pegge stayd with me; they 
 ware very solicitous for my accompanying them, but alass, 
 what satisfaction can a mind like mine overloaded with 
 grief receve from a crowd of people, all or at least many 
 blest with site of beloved friends, while I, disconsolate 
 woman, have only to reflect that I have bin happy, but 
 never more can be so again. Time indead, as you my 
 dear friend say, may make it more supportable; but no 
 time can make me happy. I know as Christans we have 
 no rite to call to account the delings of Providence; he 
 who rules all dus it wisely and for the best. I am sensable 
 of your affecton and love for her. Your conduct to her 
 ever convinced you love her, and I hope erelong we boath 
 shal meet her never to be seperated more. Your kind and 
 tender expressions of friendship for me I most gratfull 
 remember. I shal write to Mrs. Gary in a day or two and 
 request her to send the lines she mentioned. I think she 
 was rong to mention them tel she sent them. Tel my 
 Brother Duyckinck when you write him I will write him 
 by the next oppertunity. I have began a letter to him 
 but could not go on with it. Genl. Huntington returns to 
 Norage [Norwich] on Saturday or Monday. Thay insist 
 on my going with them; beleve I shal with your Sister 
 
2O2 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Hetty except their invitation; we shal not stay thare more 
 than 2 days. Should you be able to pay me a visit I should 
 be very sorry to be out. Mr. Dean still hear. He behaves 
 very atentive and polite, notwithstanding I would mutch 
 rether he went to Harford. I fear he cant git a house, 
 [as] he does not say a word about it. Your friends hear 
 are all well and desire to be affectionately remembered to 
 you. Polly has bin for 2 or 3 days very unwell but is quite 
 recovered Your Brother I sopose has acquanted you of the 
 death of your Sister Barrel child; it is the younggest, a 
 Betsey, a name dearror to me then any on earth. 
 
 May Hevens bless you and return you saft to your friends, 
 is the sencear and ardent wish of Your affectinat mother, 
 
 S. B. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM HEATH. 
 
 HIGHLANDS, May 23, 1782. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Major General Baron Steuben wishes to see you, or if 
 you cannot attend yourself, a Field Officer of the Connecti 
 cut Line, tomorrow in the forenoon at West point. 
 
 I am with great regard, Dear Sir, your obedient Servant, 
 
 W. HEATH, 
 M. General. 
 
 On the outer sheet: McCarthy will please forward this 
 immediately. W. HEATH. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Webb, or Commanding Officer of the Con 
 necticut Line, Connecticut Huts. Public Service. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 2O3 
 
 FROM JOHN P. WYLLYS. 
 
 PlNEBRIDGE, 3rd June, 1782. 
 
 Dear Col: 
 
 The tea and sugar came safe, for which I am obliged to 
 you. We get no news here, except what is contained in 
 Jemmy s letter, which I inclose. I hope to find the Troops 
 when I return ready to take the field, as the herbage here 
 is very luxuriant. The duty here is now much easier than 
 at first, or rather is more natural. I have slept under cover 
 no night since I have been at the post. We make use of 
 Sergt. White s bed of honor on which ten thousand men 
 might sleep without touching. However the duty may be 
 called hard. Our men grow sick fast. A party of our 
 volunteer horse which I had sent as a scout fell in with 
 some refugees, five or six of whom they wounded and took 
 one prisoner. That is all the military exploit in which I 
 have as yet had any hand since the command commenced. 
 I expect at least Genl. - - s thanks for planning. My 
 compliments to the Officers of the Regiment and believe 
 me Most sincerely yours, 
 
 JNO. P. WYLLYS. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Saml. B. Webb, Connecticut Hutts, Highlands. 
 To the care of Capt. Sewell. 1 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 WEATHERSFIELD, June 3, 1782. 
 
 Richard going of to morrow morning, although I have 
 said all I could in my N. 7, would not let him go with out 
 
 1 Henry Sewall, of the Massachusetts line, now aide de camp to 
 General Heath. 
 
2O4 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 asking you how you do and leting you know that your 
 frinds are well, and that Mr. and Mrs. Gary is hear on a 
 visset. She tels me she has forgot to bring the lines Doct. 
 Cutting wrote on our Dear Betsey. I do not know how 
 she could, when she was a cuming to the very house that 
 was intersted [in] them. She has prommised to send them 
 as soon as she returns. I cannot say I have my helth as 
 well as I had some time ago, but it is not to be wondered at. 
 My Dear Lovely Child is not a moment out of my toughts 
 and intrudeing troubles besides. O that I were with her, 
 then I should be happy, and tel then I shal be a bordon 
 to my self and friends. Excuse me writing you so often on 
 a subject that must bring to your mind your one trouble. 
 After closeing my last to you I received a letter from Mr. 
 Ashmon. He tels me he will com down to me and that he 
 conseves him self under every obligation to do justice to 
 the estate and relation of Mr. Bancker. I wish he may be 
 able to git the whole Dept of him, but I fear as a great 
 part of it is for rent, he will think it hard as he can not pos 
 sess the land on account of the war. I shal do the best I 
 can. Your Brother, wife, and sister Hetty are going to 
 Boston in a few days. They are very desierous of my going 
 with them, but I cannot consent to it. I believe they will 
 take your carage. I heard Col. Huntington a few days 
 ago say he did not expect to go to camp in a month or six 
 weeks. If your vissit depends on his return to camp I 
 fear we shal not sea you soon. However I will not anticipate 
 evels, they com fast enough. Polly is very well and desires 
 her love to you. Except my warmest wishes for your helth 
 and happyness, and believe me to be with unfained affec 
 tion your mother, 
 
 SARAH BANCKER. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 20$ 
 
 I have received the ring. I think it handsome; will take 
 care of it. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Saml. B. Webb, Connecticut Huts. 
 
 FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON. 
 
 [WETHERSFIELD], 5 June, 82. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Inclosed you will receive a long and tedious scrall which 
 should be accompanied with some newspapers, but I have 
 not been able to obtain them. Yesterday two lads returned 
 to me from Camp musterd out, one of them 21 years old, 
 5 feet 5 inches high, and has served two small tours in the 
 Continental Army; but I will not add to the subject. 
 I am, dear sir, Your humble servant, 
 
 EBEN. HUNTINGTON. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Samuel B. Webb, Camp. By Richard. 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 WEATHERSFIELD, Saterday, I5th June, 1782. 
 
 I wrote you a few lines by one of your serjents the 10 
 Inst. doubt not you have received it. Your N. 10 was 
 handed me last evening. Observe what you told Mr. 
 Bancker respecting the estate. As matters have turned 
 out I wish you had bin more explisit with him. How ever 
 if the instrument of convience is as saft as you think, 
 there can be no danger. I cant think Christopher s treat 
 ment to me is by his father s knolege; nor do I think it 
 worth your wile to take any notice of it to him for the pres- 
 
2O6 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 ent. When I have seen you, witch you tel me you hope 
 will be soon, we will be better able to determon what is best 
 to be done. In the mean time I have wrote to him and 
 inclose it for your perusal. You will sea I have wrote 
 with coolness; he is an in Prudent young man and I feel 
 for his parents. O how blest beyond description have I 
 bin in a child that I could accuse of no faulth. Abraham 
 Bancker has not bin hear yet; if he comes I will tell him 
 how the estate was convied. I will in close you Qhristo- 
 pher] Bancker s letter to me for your perusal, with Mr. 
 Duyckinck s. I am at a loss what to say about the mills. 
 They must have some repares, for I fear we shal not be 
 able to sell them as soon as we wish, and the season for 
 doing it will be over. But beg him as they are to be sold 
 to put us to as littel expence as possable. I think Mr. 
 Duyckinck was rong, as he knew they where to be sold, 
 to put up a still. Should we be lucky enough to sell them 
 and he takes his works of he will sertenly luse by it; but 
 it is his one doing. He wrote me he was going about it 
 in his last letter, but I did not think he would be so expe- 
 dicious. In min to him I did not take any notice of it. 
 He said he would take it of could we sell the mills, unless 
 the porchisor would by it of him. I am surprised Mr. 
 Ogdon should be sutch a stranger to his bisseness. I re 
 member very well what he told me, and what Sherif also 
 told me; it was secured and only wanted an account of 
 the monny not being good. I leave it to you to derect 
 Mr. Duyckinck about the repairs of the mill. He must 
 take it out of the rent. Give my love to all of them when 
 you write; tel him I have not bin well for some time or 
 would have wrote him. I am glad your jant was agreable. 
 I could have wished to have sean some of my friends with 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 2O7 
 
 you, but alass, what releaf would the site of my friends be 
 to me. You only I wish to see, all others are alike to me 
 now. 
 
 Your Brother and sister set of in your carage this morn 
 ing. Mr. Merrils and your sister Hetty in another carage 
 for Boston, Philip on horseback. They expect to be back 
 in a forth night. I hope Godfrie will muster the monny 
 for his notes. I have not received a shilling yet, and God 
 knows when I shal. Mr. and Mrs. Gary left us on Wensday 
 last. She has had fine cole weather to ride in. Polly and 
 your sister Abby desire their love to you. I must bid you 
 adieu, and believe me to be with the heighest esteem and 
 affection your mother, 
 
 SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 It is possable I maid a mistake in the Numbers of the 
 two letters. I cannot recalect for sertan. I wil omit in 
 closeing C. B. letter to me at this time, as his Brother 
 may be hear. I may possably wish to let him sea it. If 
 you dont come soon I will send by another oppertunity. 
 
 FROM SARAH BARRELL. 
 
 Sunday Afternoon, five o clock. 
 
 Instead of going to church this afternoon I have sat 
 down to write my long absent friends, whose presence is 
 necessary to make my life happy. I mourn our peculiar 
 fate; mine and yours, my dear Brother, has been something 
 similar. Early in life are we made acquainted with sorrow. 
 Now my dear Sammy can you really pity your Sally; your 
 own loss tells you what I have experienced, and shall never 
 forget. I heartily mourn with you on the death of your 
 
208 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 beloved Betsey. She was soon torn from your arms, and 
 not one comfort left; which was not my case. I had two 
 pledges of our mutual affection; they both bid fair to be 
 an ornament to me and friends. Two other sweet girls I 
 had; the fairest is gone in a moment as it were; a more 
 beautiful babe never saw the light. May I not repine but 
 adore the hand that did it, and say thy will be done. 
 
 Mr. Barrel and myself are both disappointed that you 
 did not according to promis pay us a visit before you 
 joined the Army. I am sorry that your health is impaired. 
 Pray take good care of yourself, and dont give way too 
 much to grief. Remember that you are young and that 
 time will soften your sorrows. I know this by experience. 
 You must be sensible that I was extremely happy in my 
 first partner, yet I consented to take another. Still I love 
 ardently and well remember past happy days, too happy 
 was it for a long duration, and we have great hopes that 
 we shall in a few years bid adieu to time and join our de 
 parted friends never more to separate. This thought, my 
 dear friend, will support us through every trouble. 
 
 Write me as frequent as you can. I long to have a letter 
 from your own hand. I should long ere this have wrote 
 you, but a very sick family has taken up all my attention. 
 My thoughts are ever with you, and my prayers for your 
 happiness is frequent. This day I have been reading your 
 letters to me and can assure you they afforded me a sincere 
 pleasure, for in every line was seen the tender brother, 
 the sincere friend, and such may I ever find you. I pass 
 my time as agreeably as I can when absent from so many 
 friends. We ride almost every day and have an agreeable 
 party. I wish that my dear Hetty and you were both here 
 to partake with us. Yesterday in company with Mr. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 209 
 
 Babcock, Mrs. Hubbard, and Berty Hubbard, we rode to 
 Jamaica plains, where your friend [David] Henly 1 resides 
 with his fair partner. At present they appear to be very 
 happy. I wish it may end only with their lives. Church 
 is out and Mr. Barrell returned, which causes me to lay 
 aside my pen; but I will in future write oftener. Mr. B. 
 joins me [in] best wishes for your health and happiness. 
 Adieu, my friend and brother, and believe that I remain 
 your most affectionate sister, 
 
 SARAH BARRELL. 
 
 June 18 [1782.] 
 
 FROM EBENEZER HUNTINGTON. 
 
 WETH., 2Oth June, 1782. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 By Doctor Ellis I was favored with yours of the loth 
 June with one enclosed for Mrs. Bancker, which I sent her 
 that evening I received it. I am very unhappy that the 
 recruits which have been sent on have been so bad as to 
 have so great a number rejected as you mention. There 
 has been greater neglect in some of the Mustering Officers 
 I suspect than in myself. Since I have introduced the 
 subject of musters I would wish to suggest one thing which 
 the Assembly did before they adjourned, which was this, 
 that in all instances where any recruits have been mustered 
 out by the mustering officer sent from camp for that pur 
 pose for want of size, they shall be remustered by the 
 Colonels of Militia regiments; and if they shall appear to 
 them to be fit for the duties of a soldier, except in wanting 
 size, they are to be sent into the State regiments, or to one 
 
 1 He had retired from service in April, 1779. 
 
2IO FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 of the State Guards, and the class shall be exempt from 
 all fines or other penalties arising from such mustering out. 
 The consequence will be this: they will be sent to Horse- 
 neck, and on any requisition to this State for men, that 
 regiment will be ordered to join the Line, in lieu of other 
 men; that in fact they will answer every purpose to the 
 State as if they joined the line. Had directions been sent 
 to the mustering officers to be more particular in their 
 musters, and broke one or two of us who had been neglect 
 ful in our duty, the purposes would have been answered, 
 as the Assembly would have not then taken it up; but 
 they took it up with such spirit as to have nearly a vote for 
 enabling the Colonels of Militia in all instances to muster 
 the recruits and to prohibit any musters by us in any 
 instance whatever. Since receiving those instructions I 
 have mustered out those who have served two campaigns 
 in the Connecticut Line, and one of those a very good lad 
 who was five feet five inches high, well made, and in my 
 opinion a good soldier. 
 
 By a letter from Capt. Williams to Mr. Burnham I am 
 informed that you gave him some encouragement for an 
 ensigncy. If you intend he shall have it the sooner the 
 better. By an agreement among the Commanding Officers 
 of Regiments last winter it will be necessary that a majority 
 of them be united in such recommendation. Will it not 
 be best to recommend Sergt. Maj. White : at the same time? 
 I only suggest the matter to you to think of; you will best 
 judge whether your regiment stands in need of any more 
 officers. The Governor and Council have filled the va 
 cancies recommended last winter by Gen. Parsons. I have 
 
 1 Jonathan W. White, sergeant major in Captain Bulkley s company. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 211 
 
 given Grosvenor 1 the command of Durkee s regiment, and 
 promoted Capt. Warner 2 to be Major of the same; the 
 other vacancies are not filled, as Gen. Huntington did not 
 know who were entitled to promotion among the subalterns. 
 I think in the same recommendation for filling of vacancies 
 that of new appointed officers ought to be subjoined. I 
 hear that Cols. [John] Greaton, [Heman] Swift, and three 
 other Colonels are promoted to be Brigadier. 3 If so it will 
 make a regiment vacant for Lt. Colonel Johnson, 4 and an 
 other captain to be promoted. 
 
 Your brother Joseph and Lady, Sister Hetty, Mr. Mer- 
 rils and Mr. S. Chester, set out for Boston last Saturday 
 by the way of Norwich, where they proposed keeping the 
 day of our Lord. I expect to get time to be at Norwich 
 a day or two before I go to Camp, but at present it is 
 uncertain. 
 
 The wafers you mention I will endeavor to procure and 
 bring to camp with me, which will not be long; first, from 
 the best information I can obtain from the different mus 
 tering officers, and from my knowledge of this county, I 
 think you may not expect more than 500 men from this 
 State, as the Assembly have affixed a penalty of non- 
 compliance to the act for filling up the Line of 50 Dollars 
 only, which is less than has been given in many instances 
 for bountys; and whenever the penalty is less than the 
 
 1 Thomas Grosvenor, of Pomfret, Inspector with rank of lieutenant 
 colonel, until promoted to command the 1st Regiment. 
 
 2 Robert Warner, of Middletown. 
 
 3 Greaton, Rufus Putnam, and Elias Dayton were made brigadier 
 generals January 7, 1783. The only promotion of this nature made in 
 1782 was that of Otho H. Williams, May 9. 
 
 4 Jonathan Johnson, of Middletown, in Col. Reman" Swift s regi 
 ment. 
 
212 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 bounty to be given, you may rely on it they will spare the 
 purse if they damn the Country; besides, they save them 
 selves the trouble of looking for soldiers. As the women 
 appear to be more zealous for recruiting and keeping up 
 the army than the men, I have proposed to some of my 
 friends that the classes should have the liberty to hire 
 women, and that I will not be so strict as to their measure, 
 as I am sure in the present distressed situation of the Army 
 a court martial could not be convened who would censure 
 me; tho at the same time I would recommend that tall 
 girls be procured that the offspring may be five feet six 
 inches high. I have tired your patience and will close 
 with compliments to my friends with you. Yours, 
 
 EBEN. HUNTINGTON. 
 
 FROM THOMAS FREDERICK JACKSON. l 
 
 FISH KILL, June 27, 1782. 
 Sir: 
 
 I informed his Lordship this morning of the representa 
 tion made by Majors Willis and Throop from you respect 
 ing the ground assigned for the encampment of the Con 
 necticut Line. His Lordship desired me to acquaint you 
 that it will be impossible for him to see General Heath 
 until Sunday next; and that he shall be glad to meet you 
 at Mr. Mandeville s about 10 o clock on that day, to obtain 
 such information of the circumstances of the troops under 
 your command as may be necessary to represent to Gen- 
 
 1 He was from Connecticut, but his name does not appear in the 
 rosters. He served as aide de camp to Lord Stirling from July, 1781, 
 to January, 1783. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 213 
 
 eral Heath. I am, Sir, with respect Your most obedient 
 humble servant, 
 
 THOS. FREDK JACKSON, 
 
 Aid de Camp. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Saml. B.Webb. Commanding the Connecticut 
 Line, Highlands. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM HEATH. 
 j) ear s; r: HIGHLANDS, June 29th, 1782. 
 
 Your favor of this date covering several certificates is 
 handed to me. Enclosed you will find them returned with 
 discharges for the several soldiers therein named. Please 
 deliver them as their times of service respectively expire. 
 The other soldiers you mention, whose times of service 
 expire between this and the 25th of July, may render 
 service; your resolution respecting them is a good one. 
 
 I am with great regard, Dear Sir, Your obedient servant, 
 
 W. HEATH. 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 WETHERSFIELD, Fryday morning, July 5th, 1782. 
 
 Your letters 12 and 13 was handed me last evening with 
 two bundels; they shal be takeing care of; the Tea is very 
 good. I thank you for it, and for every other attention 
 and tenderness showen me. If Providence puts more in 
 my power than a greitfull heart, you my freind may clame 
 it; not only be caus you merrit it, but for my Betsey sake. 
 She maid you her choyce, her husband, and her friend; 
 indearing titles but of short duration. Death, crual 
 Death justly caled the distroyer of human happyness 
 
214 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 robed you of it. Your brother and sister is this moment 
 returned from Boston. I ll go down and sea them; per 
 haps they have brought what we have long wished to sea. 
 
 I again resume my pen to tell you I have received the 
 Eliza from Mr. Gary, witch Doct. Cutting wrote. It is 
 Beautyfully don. He had drawn a lively portrait and 
 seams to have felth the forse of what he wrote. I ll in 
 close it for you. The bitter anguis of my sole oblidgis me 
 to quit writing for the present; when I have recovered a 
 littel I ll take up my pen a gain. 
 
 Justly doath the Scripture place sutch triels a mong the 
 greitest of earthly sorrows as we read Jer: 6: 26. O Daugh 
 ter of my people, gerd the with sackcloth and wallow thy 
 self in ashes; make the mourning as for an only son, most 
 bitter lamentation. So greit is this grief that the Holy 
 Ghost borrows it to express the deepest speritual troubles 
 Zach. 12: 10: thay shal mourn for him as one mourneth 
 for an only son, To be a widow exposed to oppression and 
 contempt was not all I had to sustain; there was yet a 
 juil in my poss[ess]ion that mollified and poured oyle in 
 my wounds, was to be takeing from me. That is now 
 don; that God hew gave it and hews rite I cant dispute 
 has don it. Dont think my friend I sorrow as the Heathen 
 do, that are ignorant of the grand relief by the Resurrec 
 tion, No, I trust when mortality shal put on immortality 
 I shall sea her shine with double luster and shear with 
 the joys of heaven. To be free from sin in sorrow is diffi- 
 calt, but when we put on glorified bodys sin and sorrow 
 will be don a way. 
 
 Monday morning. Your brother and sister have had a 
 very pleasant jaunt, but have left your sister Hetty not as 
 well as when she left Wethersfield. I wish it may only be 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 215 
 
 the affects of the jurny. I observe all the contents of your 
 letter; but in hopes of seaing you in a few days will omit 
 being porticklar, only that if you should write my brother 
 Duyckinck before you leave Camp, I would wish you to 
 coppy the lines Doct. Cutting wrote, and in close them to 
 him and can let him know the estate was regarly conveyed 
 by my dear child. You desired to know in a letter to your 
 brother Jack weather the hay on the home lot was cut for 
 you. Phillip some time before he went to Boston askt 
 Mr. Dean hew was to take care of it; he told him if he staid 
 tel it was fit to cut that he would have it don; but if he 
 whent to Hartford before that time Phillip should have it 
 don for you. He has staid and has had it don, and I 
 believe for him selfe; I sepose you hav sean before this by 
 the News Papers that the Assembly of this State have 
 passed a law that any person presed by law for depts due 
 may pay them in Soldgers notes or any produce they have 
 (haveing it apprised). I am told Boston has don sumthing 
 simmelar to it, and no doubt the other states will follow 
 the exsample, so that monny will be out of the question. 
 All your friends hear desire to be affectionately remembered 
 to you, and please to except with them every tender wish 
 of a mothers heart for your helth and happyness. 
 
 SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 The lines are coppyed by Harris. Should there be any 
 error in writeing it may be his. 
 
 FROM ROBERT MAGAW. 
 
 o- . CARLISLE, I4th July, 1782. 
 
 Some time ago Coll. Ephraim Blaine presented you an 
 Order from Rutgert Van Brunt, Esquire, of Long Island, 
 
2l6 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 for 50 New York currency on you in my favour, being the 
 Ballance of the pair of Black Horses you purchased of him. 
 Coll. Elaine informed me he met you at Camp where it 
 was not convenient for you to pay it, but that you promised 
 to discharge the sum when afterwards called upon. 
 
 I took the Order as Cash, and now request you ll pay 
 the sum of Fifty pounds New York Currency to Capt. 
 Daniel Parker, whose receipt shall be your discharge for 
 the same. 
 
 I am, Dear Sir, with great Respect your most Humble 
 servant, 
 
 ROBT. MAGAW. 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, July 21 st, 1782. 
 
 Colo. Huntington sets of for Camp to morrow morning, 
 in hopes of seaing you. I have left writeing to the last 
 moment, and now have only time to ask you how you do 
 and what has dissapinted your being here. Take it for 
 granted you was determed on coming, as I heard of Mr. 
 Lockwod reseving a letter from Camp, wrote on, honnord 
 by Col. Webb. Capt. Woster hew left Camp very latly 
 was in this town a few days ago said he had letters from 
 you for the fammely, but he had left them at New Haven. 
 Possebly you might have acquanted us by them what 
 detained you. I am glad your fatuging Cort is over, wish 
 you may not be troubeled with a nother very soon. Capt. 
 Webb has spent some days with me; he is just set of for 
 Worthington with a bad sweled face. I dont think he has 
 looked well for some time past. The rest of your friends 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 217 
 
 here are well as usal, and desire to be remembered to you. 
 Except my best wishes and belive me to be with unfained 
 regard your mother, 
 
 SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Samuel B.Webb, Camp. Hon d by Col. Huntington 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Monday, Aug. 26, 1782. 
 
 I wrote you yesterday by the post. Hop it will be with 
 you before this reaches you, giveing you some account of 
 your brother s misfortune. I wrote in a great hurry, scarsly 
 know what I did write. Shal be sorry if it should not git 
 saft to your hands. Pray let me hear by the first opper- 
 tunity, and if you should be going in any dangerous situa 
 tion, do not let my letters run the risk of falling in other 
 hands. You know thay are not corect anough for an im- 
 parshal eye. I found your pistols and the lock in the place 
 you mentioned; but the screws was not with them, nor 
 could I find then. Thay will be delivered with this letter 
 to soldger Welse, hew just caled on me to let me [know] he 
 should set of for Camp this evenning. Among the things 
 on board the flag was two bundles for Mrs. Smith, contain 
 ing her mothers cloads, sum spice, two pounds of tea, and 
 one doz. handkerchifs, witch helpt to make up the sum I 
 mentioned in my former letter. Mr. Smith went to Sea 
 Brook upon hearing of the seizsor, and thay delivered up his 
 things to him. Had not Mr. Webb so uncommon a dis- 
 psison to please and serve other people he would not have 
 bin in this hobble. 1 Harris has bin down there to bring a 
 
 1 Webb, Correspondence and Journals, II, 409, 421. 
 
2l8 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 horse your brother rode up. He returned last evenning, 
 and with som difficalty got from them a coppy of the list 
 or invoice of the things. I saw it at Mr. Webb s, and find 
 their is two whole peaces of linnen that was sent to a Mrs. 
 Stors of Boston, and a box of magazines and other triffeling 
 books for the same person, witch is all that has the least 
 a perenc of merchandise. Not opining the diferent little 
 pacages he could not know what they contained. I think 
 it is crual to aske a friend to bring anything out when they 
 must risk their one reputation. I am sorry it has hapened, 
 but you must make the best of it. We are in hopes he will 
 save the vessel and possably the things too. He has bin 
 to the Governor and Counsal, and by what I can lern thay 
 seam rather disposed to favour him, looking a pon it as a 
 trifiling affair; but you had best not mention that surcom- 
 stance. I shal have an other oppertunity by Mr. Carry 
 to write you, when I will write to Jerseys also; at present 
 I cant. God Bless you, and beleve me to be with unalter 
 able affection your mother, 
 
 SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Samuel B. Webb. In the Light Infantry, near 
 Head Quarters, Camp. 
 
 FROM THOMAS COGSWELL. 
 o- . NEWBURGH, 2oth August, 1782. 
 
 The bearer hereof, Mr. William Skeels, will attend as a 
 conductor of teams to the corps under your command. I 
 have wrote to Maj. Campbell A. D. Q. M. at the village 
 to furnish him with teams and four close covered waggons. 
 Coll. Jackson will take his own waggon. The one for the 
 amunition I shall send from here with horses and driver 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 219 
 
 complete; but they wont be able to be with you till the 
 day after tomorrow. 
 
 I am, Sir, Your humble servant, 
 
 THOMAS COGSWELL, 
 
 W. M. G. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Webb, Commandant of the light Infantry, 
 Peeks Kill. Per Mr. Skeels. 
 
 FROM EDWARD HAND. 
 HEAD QUARTERS, VERPLANK S POINT, August 31, 1782. 
 
 The Light Infantry are to advance in front of the Army 
 and take the best ground at or near the forke of the road 
 leading to this place and Peekskill. They will keep out 
 proper pickets and small scouts to patrol as far as Croton, 
 independent of the battalion on the lines. 
 Extract from general orders. 
 
 EDWD. HAND, Adjt. Gn. 
 
 B.[rigade] Orders. The Qr. Masters with one man from 
 each Regiment will repair to the fork of the road leading 
 to Verplanks point and Peeks Kill tomorrow morning by 
 seven o clock. 
 
 Addressed: To Colonel Webb, the Light Infantry, Peekskill. 
 Public Service. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 BEDFORD, Monday, 2 Sept., 1782. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I am just ordered to send one of my best men to Head 
 Quarters, by him had I time I would answer your letters. 
 
22O FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 I am very unhappy to hear of our brothers misfortune, 
 and could have wished that he had taken your advice. Not 
 one line have I received from any one of my friends since 
 I left them. If you write them please to remember me to 
 them. I was pleased by hearing that you had the command 
 of the Lt. Infantry, and should have been happy was there 
 a prospect of an active campaign; tho if it brings peace 
 God, who knows my heart, knows that I would give up 
 every private emolument which might fall to my lott for 
 that inestable blessing. I feel anxious my friend about the 
 mony I owe to L . Let me request you to send Richard 
 over to Col. H - for the ballance of his account. If 
 its inconvenient write me, and I will obtain leave to go. 
 If our friend Capt. Buckly should have collected my note, 
 do take up my receipt. Is there any commissioners of 
 accounts with the Army? I promised myself the happiness 
 of seeing you before this, but we move from here tomorrow 
 and god only knows where. Continue, if time and duty 
 permit, to continue your friendly letters; you must not 
 deny me that happiness. Without any compliment they 
 afford me more real pleasure than any one thing under 
 heaven. This Dragoon is ordered off immediately. And 
 may the best of heavens blessings attend you is the wish 
 of one who sincerely esteems you. My compliments 
 please to remember to all friends. 
 
 JNO. WEBB. 
 
 P. S. Excuse this scrall. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Saml. B. Webb. Commanding the first Regiment 
 of the Infantry, Camp. Per Dragoon. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 221 
 
 FROM DAVID SMITH. 1 
 
 QUARTERS NEAR PINESBRIDGE, Sept. 7th, 1782. 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 Lieut. Mansfield 2 returned last evening from a tour 
 down towards Kingsbridge. He lay one day within two 
 miles of the bridge, concealed his party with a view of 
 interupting some of the enemy s small parties, but could 
 not get sight of them. 
 
 By an inhabitant which he took up he was informed that 
 the enemy were seldom on this side the bridge, and then 
 in parties of three or four hundred strong. That the in 
 habitants and Army were much distressed for water, the 
 drought being very severe there. A new Camp was form 
 ing on the heights south of Harleam plain, extending from 
 river to river. The paper of the 4th instant is the only 
 one I have been able to obtain. I am, dear Col., Your 
 humble servant, D. SMITH. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Samuel B. Webb, Commanding the Lt. Infantry. 
 
 GULIAN VERPLANCK 3 TO MRS. BANCKER. 
 
 FISHKILL, September 29th, 1782. 
 
 From the conversation I had with Col. Webb in the spring 
 of the year respecting your late husband s bond, I was in- 
 
 1 Major in Lieut. Col. Isaac Sherman s regiment, but now with the 
 Light Infantry under Webb. He had been Inspector in the Con 
 necticut line. 
 
 2 John Mansfield, of Wallingford, lieutenant in Col. Zebulon 
 Butler s regiment. 
 
 3 Gulian Verplanck had represented New York City in the As 
 sembly, 1788-1797, and for almost the whole term of service he was 
 Speaker of that body. 
 
222 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 duced to flatter myself with the hopes of some assistance. 
 Since then I have not heard from him. It is by no means 
 my wish to put you to any difficulty, but the necessity I 
 am under of discharging such debts as I have been obliged 
 to contract compels me to request some assistance from 
 you. 
 
 I am with respect, Your humble servant, 
 
 GULIAN VERPLANCK. 
 
 Addressed: Mrs. Bancker, to the care of Mr. Joseph Webb, Wethers- 
 field. 
 
 FROM JOHN DUYCKINCK. 
 
 NORTH BRANCH, the 29 September, 1782. 
 My Dear Sir: 
 
 Yours of the 26th instant I have before me, and be very 
 glad to find you and my sisters in good helth. I entended 
 seting out for Wheathersfield the last of this month, but 
 bisness at the present so surcomstance, dont think it pru- 
 dant to leave home. As soon as a vacancy serves you may 
 depend I will set out for Wheathersfield, and if I can find 
 you be at camp will see you ther. I have made some en 
 quiry about the debt due from the gentelman mentioned, 
 and from what I can find out the money is safe. Exspect 
 to hear more particularly soon. Since my last to you we 
 have don little to the mills, want of Whether bords and 
 nobs; those artacles I expect to have soon, shall then make 
 a finish of the mills. The milling bisness is but dul, the 
 season so dry that few of the mills can do anything. The 
 fulling mill has not gone sence June; is now in good order 
 and beleave will do bisness when ever waughter comes. 
 Was it not for the stills I should make but a dull hand. The 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 223 
 
 stills is dowing good bisness, or at least for so trifeling a 
 calling. The stills makes 40 to 50 glls. good speerts every 
 day. Wish I could make sale for a few Hog[shead]s. The 
 prette lines on the deth of our once dea Eliza I acknoleg, 
 which I have delivered to Mrs. Duyckinck and daughters. 
 You mention you think the close of the winter the horrows 
 of war will cease, which God grant may be the case. I 
 rest, Dear Sir, with Mrs. Duyckinck, mother, and little ones 
 joining with me in our seancear love to you and sisters, 
 who I wish to see son, and our complament to all our friends 
 and am, Dear sir, your affection friend and H. Servt., 
 
 JNO. DUYCKINCK. 
 
 N. B. 3 days sence I sold the hors of William. I mean 
 the hors Ferdinand for 70 to Azarck Dunham paable 3 
 monts. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, the 3 Connecticut Regiment. 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Oct. 5, 1782. 
 
 A very bad head ake prevents my writeing you by this 
 oppertunity more then just to tel you I receved your kind 
 favour by Sergen [Benjamin] Dix, and am glad there is a 
 prospect of the Britches [British] leveing New York. Mr. 
 Brom received a letter from Long Island yester Day ac 
 quainting him that they have left Loyds Neck, and that 
 the regelar trups where going to the Vestinde [West Indies], 
 and the Heysons [Hessians] and Lowelist [Loyalist] where 
 to defend the sitty. This last I do not belive. You wrot 
 me you would expect a very surcomstansal letter from me. 
 I would be more pertecklar but I rely feel so sick I can 
 
224 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 hardly hold the pen in my hand. I wrot you by Capt. 
 Rily the 2 instant make no doupt you have receved it. 
 Should we be so fortunate as that the Britches should leave 
 the setty it is likely you will be in the town as soon as any 
 of our trups. I wish you would render every service to 
 my friend you can. You know the most of them. The 
 widow Leake I wish you to call on as soon as you git there, 
 and portect her from insult if it is in your power. 1 Dont 
 call me to sangin, I am not; but causon is good betimes. 
 I wish I was ther before they left the place, but I see no 
 prospect of giting there. I have wrote more than I thought 
 I should when I began, but of littel consiquence. Polly 
 and all your friends joyn me in love to you, and I am with 
 mutch regard and esteem your mother, 
 
 SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, Light Infantry Camp, near 
 Head Quarters. 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, October 7, 1782. 
 
 My last to you was by Sargt. [Benjamin] Dix; sence 
 witch I have receved none from you. I heard Capt. 
 [James] Watson was going to Camp. I purpis sending 
 Phillip with this to him. I receved yesterday the inclosed 
 letter from Mr. Verplanck. I have also inclosed a letter 
 
 1 Robert Leake, of the County of Albany, was named in the New 
 York act of attainder, October 22, 1779. One of the same name died 
 in 1774, leaving landed estates in New York City, Claverack, Albany 
 and Tryon Counties, New York, New Jersey, on the Susquehannah, 
 in East Florida and in Durham County, England, as well as the funds 
 of England. His widow Ann died in 1784. Two sons, Robert William 
 and John G. Leake, survived the father. See p. 229, infra. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 22$ 
 
 I have wrote in answer to him for your pirrusal, if you 
 think it will do I beg you will send it amediately, if not I 
 wish you would write him as he may think it a neglect. 
 I am very uneasey. I do not know how we shal colect the 
 monny to pay him and I beleve he wants it or he would not 
 be so pressing. If it was in my power to git it on intrist 
 of any friend, I would gladly do it, tel we could settel the 
 estate; but there is no sutch think to be don in these scarce 
 times of monny. Let me know if you have bin able to write 
 Walling or his Eirs. If I recolect rite I told you that they 
 lived in Hardy Town [Hardiston], Sussix County. If you 
 know any body in Goshon that you could derect to the 
 care of, it might git to them. I would wish they should 
 cum hear to settel it. If you write to them as you do not 
 know perhaps how the debt stands, I hope my dear Col. 
 Webb it wont be long be fore you can leave Camp that we 
 may determen how we shal settel this affair. Affliction 
 and trouble is my porsion in this life. I have had a verlant 
 head ake for several days. It has not left me yet, and writ 
 ing makes it wors. I there fore must conclude my letter 
 for the present, and remain with affection and esteem your 
 mother, 
 
 SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, Light Infantry Camp, near 
 Head Quarters. Favor of Capt. Watson. 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Oct. 9, 1782. 
 
 This will be handed you by Mr. Van Cortland who with 
 G[erardus] Beekman has spent some days at Mr. Webb. 
 
226 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 They are to leve this tomorro morning, althoe I had wrote 
 but two days be fore by Capt. Watson who intends stoping 
 at camp in his way to Philadelphia. He promised to de 
 liver them to you him self. I hope he will not fail dowing 
 it, as they in closed a letter from Mr. Verplanck, and also 
 one I wrote him in answer, witch I wished you to se before 
 it was sent. I wish to God that affare could be setteled. I 
 am mutch at a loss how we shall acomplish it, as I am not 
 able to receve any monny, and selling the mills I sea no 
 prospect of at present. I wish som monnyed man would 
 perchis som of the lotts in the Great Patten. It might be 
 better to them then puting there monny in tread, as they 
 would and must increas in wallu at the close of the war, 
 and there could be some reserved besides. Perhaps you 
 might bring it about with Col. Wardswort. He has, I am 
 told, baught a good dele of land, and as he has plenty of 
 cash might sea an advantage in it. It will be all one to 
 you witch part of the estate you have left, and it would 
 red my mind of a great burdon. Miss Bull is with us on a 
 visit for some days. She desires her compliments to you. 
 I am better in helth than when I last wrote you, thoe in 
 very low spirits, and heaven only knows when they will be 
 better. Your friends hear are all in helth, and with Polly 
 joyn me in love to you. I am with love and affection your 
 mother, 
 
 SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 Give my compl. and best wishes to your Brother Jack. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, Commanding the Light In 
 fantry of the American Army, near Head Quarters. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 227 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 TRIP STREET, [near BEDFORD], i8th October, 1782. 
 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 Within two or three days I have wrote you two letters, 
 and chiefly on the subject of my note. I thought I would 
 once more write you, as Major Tallmadge and Doctr. 
 Renfield propose breckfasting with you tomorrow morn 
 ing. I sent you by the former J^ Ib. thread No. 18, also 
 J4 thread No. 16; the first cost 6/ and the latter J/ New 
 York currency; also twenty-three yards black ribbin which 
 cost 1/3 pr. Yd. New Y[ork] Qurrency]. I have saved 
 some thread for Mrs. B[ancker] and Mrs. W[ebb], Nos. 26 
 and 30. I wish you to write me what things you wish me 
 to get, and what used to be the price (in former times) of 
 a piece of Blk. ribbin; also what used to be the prices of the 
 things you write me to purchase. Casamer can be pur 
 chased for twenty shillings per yd N. Y. Cr. Doctr. Brun- 
 son had an eighty dollar note paid by our friend Col. 
 Wadsworth. By him I learnt that there had a large some 
 of mony come from Philadelphia, and that if I did not send 
 soon it would all be paid out. If you can send me some 
 mony by the bearer it will much oblige me. It s probable 
 I think we shall not continue here long; therefore would 
 request you to send me as much mony as you can. A 
 letter a few days hence to Col. U[dney] Hay I think will be 
 of service. If you write I request you will let Richard go. 
 
 Mr. Beekman wrote me that he should be happy to see 
 me previous to my going to Wethersfield. Should you see 
 him please to present my compliments to him and family, 
 and inform him that I ll wait on him with pleasure. 
 
 You mentioned that you wished (some time past) that 
 
228 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 you could send a letter to [blank]. I can send one I think 
 by a carefull woman. The thread if you do not want, 
 you may do with it as you please, also the other article. 
 
 If you see Col. Wadsworth I wish you to tell him that 
 you have advised me to sell my horse for fifty guineas, and 
 if he can sell him for that sum you wish he would. 
 
 Please to present my [ ] compliments to the gentle 
 
 men with you. 
 
 I am yours affectionately, 
 
 j.w. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Saml. B. Webb, Commanding the Lt. Infantry of 
 the American Army. Honord by Major Tallmadge. 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, October 27th, 1782. 
 
 I had the pleasure yesterday of receiving two letters 
 from you N. 21 and 22, and observe your cair and atention 
 to me; beg you will not make your self uneasy. I nead 
 but littel, and that I doubt not I shall git. Hay and wood 
 will be most difficul; their is none got yet. I fear hay will 
 be dear in perticular, if the French army quarters near 
 this. Your littel colt is hear; it is small, but a beautiful 
 well made horse. Phillip rides him and is very mutch 
 pleased with him. He is shure the Colo, will not sel him 
 when he comes to sea him; but as he is so small I think he 
 will only be an expence to you. I would advise you to 
 sel him or ship him of, if an oppertunity offers. He may 
 fetch a good price of some jentelman for his son to ride. 
 Butter I fear will not be to be had; the drouth has made 
 that artickal very scarce. I am sorry there is a prospect 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 229 
 
 of your being detained at camp so long. I had flattered 
 myself with the pleasure of seeing you soon, and still hope 
 it may be sooner than you think. All your friends wish to 
 see you, and none more sencearly than I do. I am sorry 
 Cr. Bancker behaves so foolish as to his grandfather; 
 leaving my husband s estate to him in case of death is Idel 
 in deade. He left his estate between his four sons to be 
 equally devided be twen them without reserve, and my 
 husband and his brothers devided and passed deeds. 1 I 
 have no uneasiness on that score. If I am not mistakeing 
 I have the old jintelmans will by me; if not, it is recorded 
 and can be seen for a few shillings. I cant recolect any 
 papers neadfull but what I have got. I wish there was a 
 good offer for some of it; we might soon show him whose 
 title was best. If yours is good, witch I hope is the case, 
 their is no danger. Their seams some prospect of my 
 brother paying us a visit. I hope his calling on you at 
 camp may give no uneaseness, as they looked on him with 
 suspicion. I shal be very glad to sea him; he has a good 
 hart. The day you mention that made my lovely Betsy 
 yours did not pas unnoticed by me, nor is it possable any 
 day should. My child is never out of my thoughts; her 
 Heavenly voice is ever sounding in my ears, and her sweet 
 immage ever before me --the idea and impreson I wish 
 to retain wile I live. It is all my consolation tel I meet her 
 
 1 Christopher Bancker, father-in-law of Mrs. Bancker, was a prom 
 inent merchant and magistrate in New York city, residing on the north 
 west corner of Wall and William Streets, and owning real estate in 
 other parts of the city. He died April 13, 1763, in his sixty-eighth 
 year. Five sons were named in the will Evert, Adrian, Richard, 
 Christopher and William but Christopher died before his father. 
 The widow of Christopher. Jr. married again, Robert Leake, com 
 missary general. See p. 224, supra. 
 
23O FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 again. Was I as free from senn as I thought her, I should 
 wish this was the day that I was to remove me where she 
 is. I should then sorrow no more; but Heavens will must 
 be don. Sally Chester was marryed last Wensday eight 
 days. I had a very polite invitation to see the weading, 
 but excused myself. Polly whent. They spent a very 
 agreable evening and past the next day and evenning at 
 your Brother s. I am told they wished often for you. 
 Least they should think I did not pay proper atention to 
 their politeness, I gave them an invitation the next week 
 to spend an evenning with me, witch they did, and seamed 
 mutch pleased. Miss Bull was hear at the time, staid a 
 forthnite. I have not sean Robbens sence you left us. 
 I am not out of money. Now I think I have wrote you a 
 verry surcumstantial letter, and must bid you adieu for 
 the present, and remain as usual your Mother, 
 
 SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 P. S. Polly and your other friends desire their love to 
 you. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Samuel B. Webb, Commandant of the Light In 
 fantry, American Camp. 
 
 FROM HEMAN SWIFT. 
 
 CAMP 2ND CONNECTICUT BRIGADE, Nov. 1st, 1782. 
 Sir: 
 
 I have this moment received a letter from General 
 Huntington informing me that he has directed the Field 
 Officers of the first brigade to attend my Quarters this 
 morning, in order to make the arrangements in their 
 respective grades by mutual agreement, and desired me 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 23! 
 
 to notify you, Major Smith 1 and Major Wright, 2 that it is 
 his desire that you attend. You will be so good as to notify 
 Majors Smith and Wright. I expect the gentlemen from 
 the Point here soon. 
 
 I am sir with great respect your obedient servt., 
 
 HEMAN SWIFT. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Webb, at his Quarters. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, November 6th, 1782. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 A soldier this morning calls upon me. I embrace the 
 opportunity to let you know that your good mother, Aunt 
 and all of us all well. The French army have all marched 
 from Hartford. Many of the French officers have called 
 and paid their respect to us. Our house has been thronged. 
 Do you expect to pay us a visit soon? What are the 
 movements ? 
 
 What is the news? as to the necessary supplies for your 
 family, I hope they will be clever. Two or three articles 
 are rather difficult to be got, first butter, hay and cash; but 
 I trust we shall get along clever; but I hope you will not 
 have too many horses. You have never told me whether 
 you wished for part of the old barn on the lott you live on, 
 or on your corner lott. Do write me soon as possible. 
 I am most sincerely yours. 
 
 [No signature. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Samuel B. Webb, Commanding the Light Infan 
 try, American Army. 
 
 1 David Smith, of Waterbury, in Lieut. Col. Isaac Sherman s regiment. 
 
 2 Joseph A. Wright, of Wethersfield, in Col. Zebulon Butler s regiment 
 
232 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM GERARD G. BEEKMAN. 
 
 G. G. Beekman presents his compliments to Col. Webb 
 and acquaints him the Circle will put itself in motion agree 
 able to his request tomorrow. 
 
 PEEKSKILL, Saturday Morning, [November 16, 1782.] 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 November igth, 1782. 
 
 Your very kind and oblidging letter by Richard is now 
 befour me, and have made several atempts to answer it; 
 but you, my dear friend, can easely judge the conflict I 
 must have had with myself on the return of that day that 
 separated for ever from my site my lovely Betsey. I 
 strove to arm myself, but alas ten thousand coroding 
 thoughts assaulted me, and my tears were my only releaf. 
 Dus every mother feel as I do at the loss of theur children? 
 Shure then I have never pittied them as I ought (methinks 
 I hear you say, every child is not worthy of that love and 
 affection that she merrited from her friends; she was 
 nearer perfection than thousands of her sex). True, my 
 friend, all have not bin blessed with sutch a child, and 
 their grief must be in proporsion to their loss. Mine is 
 very great indeade. Mrs. Cary has a daughter. I had a 
 letter from her since I last wrote you, requesting me to 
 stand god mother for it; it is to be named after our own 
 dear Betsey. I will inclose it to you. I think it shows her 
 affection was sencear, and that death has not disolved it, 
 witch is to mutch the case with many people. I had an 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 233 
 
 oppertunity the next day after receved hers to write her, 
 and acquies in her request. I am mutch disepinted at 
 your not being able to leave camp sooner than the first of 
 January. I had flattered myself with your being home 
 mutch sponer; but why I flatter myself with anything in 
 this life that can give me pleasure I know not, while every 
 thing conspires to make me more reched. Your atention 
 for me merrits every accnolagement and gratitude from 
 me. I beg you will not make yourself uneasy. I shall be 
 provided with all I want. Your brother I think reather 
 thought Richard cuming unnecessary. He dus not like I 
 believe to be hurryed. Richard could not accomplish the 
 giting any wood while he was hear. Mr. Webb said he 
 did not like to take any of your lot and I think to, if it can 
 be got any where else, it will be best. I am extremely 
 sorry I must give you so mutch trouble. Richard brought 
 me eight dollars and six crown from Robbens. He has 
 prommesed to pay the rest in a few days. If your wagon 
 should cum this winter and a barrel or two of flower could 
 be had without giveing you mutch trouble, and it is cheaper 
 their, would it not be best to git it? It is 22/ hear, and I 
 find it diifical to git. Had I not had the barrel of Cornell 
 that came from the Branch, I don t know what we should 
 have don, and it is almost to bad to eate. The drouth 
 hear for som time made it diffical, and since every body 
 seams to be bisy, they dont trash their weat. I have put 
 up for Richard to take to you a vest, pr. stockens, and a pr. 
 drawers I maid; the old one was not fit. [Abraham] Beld- 
 ing caled hear yesterday, told me he should go to camp in 
 a bout ten days, when I will write you again. Pray dont 
 disopint me in cuming home as soon as you can. Polly 
 and the good people next dore joyne me in love to you. 
 
234 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 and believe me to be as at all times, your Affectionate 
 mother, SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 Give my compliments to your Brother Jack. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 My Dear Brother: November 19, 1782. 
 
 The family is retired to bed. I steal a moment of this 
 silent hour, unbeknown from the family, to write you, for 
 you must know my late application to writing late at 
 night has brot on my old difficulty, weakness of eyes, and 
 I am forbid writing or reading. I have parted with Rich 
 ard, told him I could not write; but my inclination is so 
 great that have, caught my pen in this stealing silent man 
 ner, to beg you to make yourself quite easy and happy 
 about your family. I have done for them just as if my own, 
 and you may depend I shall untill you return. [There s] no 
 difficulty, only in butter, cash, and hay. The last I thot 
 [I had] engaged a large quantity for you, but . Yet I 
 trust you will do well enough. Tomorrow Philip goes the 
 round for butter. You must excuse me, my eyes weep too 
 much. I can only add it grieves me to the heart to be 
 afflicted in my eyes (that I must submit, its a duty, but a 
 hard one.) I am sincerely yours. 
 
 Gen. Washington s boots. Nine Dollars. 1 
 
 [No signature.] 
 
 When your waggon returns remember if cheap [some] 
 super fine flour. 
 
 Poor flour sells for 2*2 / to 24/5 Beef 23 to 28/. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, Light Infantry, Camp. Per 
 Richard. 
 
 1 Webb, Correspondence and Journals, II, 342. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 235 
 
 FROM FRANCES CARREY. 
 
 PHILIPS PATENT, November 25th, 1782. 
 Sir: 
 
 The slight acquaintence I had with you when at Peeks 
 kill, and the friendship subsisting between you and my 
 Brother Huntington s family, encourages me to ask for a 
 Permitt to visit my home and connections at Peeks kill. 
 I hope this request will not appear unreasonable, as it is 
 the first time I have asked the favor since I was removed, 
 which is near two years. If a Permitt should be granted 
 should be glad to have my little boy included as company 
 for me. The bearer will forward it to me. 
 
 By complying Coll. Webb will greatly oblidge his friend 
 and Humble servant, 
 
 FRANCES CARREY. 
 
 Addressed: Coll. Webb, Continental Village. 
 
 FROM NEHEMIAH HUBBARD. 
 
 NEW WINDSOR, December 9th, 1782. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I am favored with yours of this date by Mr. Frothing- 
 ham; am sorry its not in my power to send you some of 
 the crackers; those mentioned to you by Colo. Trumbull 
 belonged to Col. Wadsworth and have since gone on to 
 Hartford. When I had the pleasure to see you at my 
 quarters I had near half a barrel; most of them are made 
 use of since. The articles mentioned in your memorandum 
 are furnished, except the Brown Sugar which has not come 
 to hand yet. I have not been able since you was here to 
 leave my room, have sent to the store to examin the flour 
 
236 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 there, but no superfine. A vessel arrived this day with a 
 load; will have it examined, and if any superfine you may 
 depend on my sending a barrel by Trumbull s returning 
 teams. I am, sir, with sentiments of esteem your obedient 
 servant, 
 
 N. HUBBARD. 
 Colo. Samuel B. Webb, West Point. 
 
 FROM DAVID SMITH. 
 
 DEANSBOROUGH, December nth, 1782. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 I cordialy thank you for your kind attention in speaking 
 to Genl. Knox on the subject of leave of absence. I have 
 written to General Knox and stated my reasons fully on 
 which I ground my request. If I succeed or not, I shall 
 note this instance of your politeness and mark of friendship 
 to me among the many I have heretofore received. I am, 
 dear Webb, Yours affectionately, 
 
 D. SMITH. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Webb, West Point. 
 
 FROM HANNAH BIRDSALL. 
 
 PEEKS KILL, 12 December, 1782. 
 
 Colon. I have agreeable to your request taken ^ Ib. Tea 
 out of the canester; the remainder therein send you by the 
 bearer with my compliments and am respectfully yours, 
 
 HANNAH BIRDSALL. 
 
 Addressed: To Colon. Samuel B. Webb, West Point. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 237 
 
 ON UNIFORM. 
 
 Att a meeting of the Commanding Officers of the Con 
 necticut Regiments present Col. Webb, Col. Butler and 
 Lt. Col. Johnson, on the subject of haveing a uniformity 
 in the Line. 
 
 Agreed that the Coat shall be of a common length reach 
 ing near down to the Knee band; that the four buttons be 
 on the Cuff, pockett flaps and folds; that the Cuffs be 
 round and the Buttons on the Cuffs; for the convenience 
 of Soldiers the Cuff is to be open the under side at least 
 three Inches and hooked; those officers that choose it can 
 do the same. The Coat is not to be laped in the rear of 
 the centre of the folds but made to hook up at the corners; 
 the faceings, Cuffs, and Capes, to be of the usual length 
 and width, with ten buttons on the faceings; the Soldiers 
 faceings to lap sufficient to cover the Edge of the Cape; 
 the officers to lap about four Inches on the Cape. 
 
 Hatts uniformly bound with white and cocked, if the 
 binding can be obtained. 
 
 SAMUEL B. WEBB, Col. ^d Regt. 
 ZEBN. BUTLER, Col. 1st Cavl. Regt. 
 T. JOHNSON, Lt. Colo, zd Regt. 
 
 VEST POINT, iQth Deer. 1782. 
 
 FROM SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 WEATHERSFIELD, December 27, 1782. 
 
 Major [Joseph A.] Write a few moment ago sent to let 
 me know he was to set of for camp tomorow morning, wich 
 gives me the opertunity of writing you a few lines; mearly 
 
238 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 for the satisfaction of writing you, as I have nothing very 
 meterial to comunicate at present, prommissing myself the 
 pleasure of seaing you home in a few days. Richard is 
 got home about half an our sence, and tels me you was 
 very unwell when he left you with a cold. Hope before 
 this reaches you you will have got the better of it. I fear 
 you have exposed yourself to mutch by laying in a tent 
 so long. It is quite unfortunate. A fine snow we had a 
 few days ago had intirely left us, but hope we shal be fa 
 voured with another in a day or two, when Richard will 
 amediately set of with the slay. Your brother and sister 
 took the first of the snow to go to Norage [Norwich], 
 witch was this day week. They are detained yet waiting 
 for another to bring them back. I fancy Mrs. Webb must 
 be very uneasy to be detained so long at this season of the 
 year and bad roads for any other carage. Your other 
 friends hear air all well, and joyn me with Polly in wishing 
 you the compliments of the season. If you sea your 
 brother Capt. Webb pleas to give my compliments to him, 
 and belive me to be with the highest esteem and regard 
 Your mother, 
 
 SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Samuel B. Webb, West Point. Honored per 
 Major Wright. 
 
 FROM G. G. BEEKMAN, JR. 
 
 Mr. Gerard G. Beekman Junr. presents his comps. to 
 his friend Coll. Webb. Is very sorry to hear that he is 
 been so very unwell, so that it has deprived him of the 
 Coll. s company, who he and Mrs. Beek[man] is always 
 glad to see. She says she will be at weathersf[ield] this 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 239 
 
 winter if there is snow. Papa, who is here, is sorry you 
 have been unwell as well as himself. Gilbert is recovering 
 fast. Sister Nancy is as helthy as ever. 
 
 Sunday afternoon, half past 2 o clock. PEEKS KILL 2Qth Decem 
 ber, 1782. 
 
 Addressed: Col. Samuel B. Webb, West Point. 
 
 FROM RICHARD PLATT.* 
 
 ROBINSON S, December 31, [1782.] 
 Sir: 
 
 When in November last I presented you an order for 
 the small barge in your possession you made no hesita 
 tion about the delivery, in case she had been at the Village 
 Landing; and I think you must well remember that I said 
 "I had no passion for her in particular, but only wanted a 
 boat (and a boat I am now destitute of); and as your then 
 situation required one of her description (and to my knowl- 
 ege there was no other to be had) I readily subscribed to 
 your case," tho not in the least doubting that when a 
 different aspect should arise you would resign her in favor 
 of my principal. I am sorry that I am constrained to alter 
 the opinion I had conceived; for it does not appear from 
 the verbal answers you have given to three written applica 
 tions of mine on the subject, that you intend to yield her. 
 You will pardon me then for asking a conclusive answer to 
 my question. I am, Sir, Your most Obedient servant, 
 
 RICHD. PLATT. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Webb, Westpoint. 
 
 1 Of New York. He was aide de camp of General Macdougall 
 through the war. 
 
240 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 To RICHARD PLATT. 
 
 WEST POINT, Tuesday Evening, 31 December, 1782. 
 Sir: 
 
 I am this moment favor d with yours of this day s date. 
 That part which mentions my verbal reply to three within 
 applications looks like neglect, which, be assured, I feel 
 myself incapable of to any gentleman, either of superior, 
 equal, or inferior rank; but more particularly to a man who 
 I have profess d and feel a Friendship for, your principle 
 as well as yourself. I am therefore obliged to gratify my 
 own feelings and quiet your doubts, by informing you that 
 your first two notes were handed to me at a time when I 
 was too ill to write on any subject, and as the boat was 
 up the river, I supposed it sufficient to give the Serjeant 
 that information. This morning your third note was dated 
 on the dock. I had company, and could not conceive it 
 necessary to detain you in that situation for a written 
 reply. At Gen l Knox s request I had mann d the barge 
 to take a French officer to Head Quarters. It was, there 
 fore, out of my power to give you an order for her. You 
 mistake the matter when you suppose I should have deliv 
 ered you the Barge last November, had she been in the 
 Creek. Be assured I had no intention to do it, but had an 
 application been made immediately on my arrival here, 
 and before I found the necessity I was under of sending 
 from thirty to sixty miles up the river for every article of 
 my winter stores, I should have given her up. She is to 
 make one more trip (if the weather permits) up the river 
 after stores for my private use, probably will be gone but a 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 24! 
 
 few days. On her return I have no objection to your taking 
 her. 
 
 I am, Sir, your most Hum. Servt., 
 
 SAM L B. WEBB. 1 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 We are made happy this day by your letter telling us 
 you are better. I have been much more anxious than I 
 dare let Mrs. Bancker know. I hope Richard will get 
 safe to camp with the sleigh and return soon. Mrs. Webb 
 is yet at Norwich, caught there in a sleigh without snow. 
 I send your Cags Sturgeon, the one of round hoops is for 
 General Washington, either in the name of Erklens or 
 myself. One is sold to young Gerry Beekman which please 
 to favor to get safe to him. Tell Gerry he has not answered 
 my last letter. The sturgeon is extremely fine and delicate; 
 its fine for supper with good oil, bread and butter, vinegar 
 and parsley. 
 
 My eyes forbid me writing. I am, dear Sam, Your most 
 affectionate brother, 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
 Saturday Evening n o clock, [WETHERSFIELD, January, 1783.] 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, West Point Fort. Per Richard 
 Bacon. 
 
 1 From the Knox Papers in the New England Historic Genealogical 
 Society. 
 
242 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JOSEPH BARRELL. 
 
 BOSTON, 21 February, 1783. 
 Dear Sam: 
 
 I wrote you two or three posts past that Sally was con 
 fined to her chamber, and by General Lincoln a fortnight 
 since that she was so well as that we expected to see you 
 and Mrs. Bancker, or any friend you pleased to bring; 
 since which I have heard nothing from you which makes 
 me apprehensive my letters miscarried. I have only to 
 say that I congratulate you on the appearance of peace, 
 which must be pleasing to every good man, and to tell 
 you that unless we see you before you go to camp, we 
 will not know you when you return. We are all cleverly, 
 and send love to you all. In haste, Dr. Sam, Yours 
 affectionately, 
 
 Jo. BARRELL. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam. B. Webb at Wethersfield. 
 
 GENERAL ORDERS. 
 HEAD QUARTERS, NEWBURGH, 24th Feby. 1783. 
 
 The non arrival of the clothing expected from Europe 
 renders the greatest economy of that article doubly nec 
 essary. The Commander in Chief therefore recommends 
 that the business of turning and repairing the coats of 
 last year should now be considered as a primary object; 
 in doing which a certain model as to the fashion and length 
 (for the coats ought to be made something shorter than the 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 243 
 
 present) will be established by the Commanding Officer 
 of the Corps, from which there must be no deviation. 
 Should the men in any instance presume to make altera 
 tions in the fashion of their clothing according to their 
 own whim or caprice, report is to be made thereof by the 
 inspector, that the want of system and police in such corps 
 may be publicly noticed. It is expected that scarlet cloth 
 for cuffs and capes, and perhaps half-facings will be fur 
 nished as the Secretary at War has been pleased to give 
 assurances that he will cause a quantity of that cloth to 
 gether with thread to be immediately forwarded from Phil 
 adelphia, if possible. The Commander in Chief flatters 
 himself that he shall see the good taste and attention of 
 the officers as beautifully displayed in the present instance 
 as all the military virtues have been on every late occasion. 
 
 ABRAHAM BANCKER TO MRS. BANCKER. 
 
 Dear Aunt: 
 
 I cannot consistent with my feelings let pass this op 
 portunity without testifying the Respect I bear you. It 
 has been a cause of great anxiety to our Family that we 
 have been so long deprived of the Fruits of a free Communi 
 cation; but have at length a Prospect of our Grievances 
 being speedily terminated by a Return of Peace, with every 
 concomitant Blessing that is to be derived from its Influ 
 ence. The Calamities usually attending a State of Warfare 
 have been borne by almost every Citizen within the States, 
 either in a greater or less degree; but when to these are 
 added the piercing Sorrows that arise from the loss of our 
 dearest Connections in Life, the Burden becomes inex- 
 
244 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 pressibly grievous, and cannot be conceived but by those 
 whose Lot it has been to experience its Pangs. Believe 
 me, Dear Aunt, we Sympathise with you in your Distress; 
 and sincerely hope that as it has pleased the Almighty in 
 his wise dispensations to visit you with his afflicting hand 
 he may indue you with that Degree of Fortitude and Resig 
 nation as to hold you up from sinking under its mighty 
 Pressure. We trust the day is not far distant when we 
 shall be reunited in the Bands of Friendship and affection, 
 and shall meet to part no more, until we quit the stage of 
 Mortality. 
 
 I have but just returned from a Jaunt to Morristown 
 and Philadelphia. Our Friends within those Boundaries 
 are extremely well in Regard to Health, tho some I found 
 in very indigent circumstances. Christ, can scarce pro 
 cure his Family their daily Bread. He is very necessitous. 
 His Children without shoes or stockings, and not a change 
 of Raiment to put on them. Polly is safely delivered of a 
 Son which is like to do well. Herself was very low, occa 
 sioned by a Fall which was near being fatal to her, tho 
 am happy to advise you that she is on the Recovery. 
 
 My Father and Mother I left well on Friday. They 
 enjoy much Peace and Tranquility comparatively with 
 what they did when you were there. .Those unruly Do- 
 mesticks w r ho at that time endangered our Safety are 
 removed to such a distance as to free us from any dismal 
 apprehension in future. Last summer they had formed a 
 Conspiracy against our lives, of which I made a discovery 
 on the eve of its being put into execution, which induced 
 me to take such measures as to prevent its consequences. 
 The strategem succeeded, for before they had the least 
 knowledge of my intentions they found themselves se- 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 245 
 
 cured on board a vessel of war in which they took their 
 departure to the West Indies. 
 
 Mr. Justus B. Smith 1 who has been pleased to offer 
 himself as a Bearer of this letter, will deliver this to 
 you; to him I refer you for any Information you may 
 desire respecting the present situation of affairs in this 
 Quarter. 
 
 It would be a gratification to us while so unhappily 
 separated to hear frequently from those we esteem. Con 
 sistent with that principle I beg leave to assure you that 
 an answer to this scrawl will be deemed a peculiar favor; 
 which shall prompt our future exertions to oblige. 
 
 Accept our best love and fondest wishes for your Preser 
 vation. Please make my Respects acceptable to Col. S. B. 
 Webb, Miss Webb and Miss Duyckinck. 
 
 I am, Dear Aunt, with invariable attachment your affec 
 tionate Nephew, 
 
 ABRM. BANCKER. 
 
 NEW YORK, i6th March, 1783. 
 
 MEMORIAL OF CORPORALS. 
 
 [WEST POINT], April i6th, 1783. 
 Sir: 
 
 It is the request of those whose names are under written 
 that Thomas Stanly may be repromoted. We are sensible 
 he has been guilty of breach of orders; but we think his 
 
 1 Son of John and Margaret Smith, of Westchester, and brother-in- 
 law of Richard (or Christopher) Bancker, who had married his sister 
 Mary. He had two brothers, William S. Smith and John Smith. 
 
246 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 crime not altogether scandulous: and that his reputation 
 merits our attention. The happy day of peace is come, 
 and it must give him disagreeable sensations to return to 
 his friends thus disgraced. 
 
 We are, Sir, your Honor s humble servant 
 
 REUBEN Moss 1 REUBEN CARTER 7 
 
 BENJ. WHEELER 2 NEKLAS HOWEL l 
 
 ISAAC NORTHRUP 1 JESSE ST. JOHN 10 
 
 DANIEL PORTER 3 FREDERICK STODDARD 9 
 
 ABRAHAM PARKER l RICHARD BELDING u 
 
 GEORGE HUBBARD 4 ASHER HICKOX 
 
 JAMES HOOKER 5 GILES WILCOX lz 
 
 ABEL HITCHCOCK 1 AMASA GRENELL 1 
 
 JAMES DOWNS 4 JAMES CR[?] 
 
 SAMUEL JACKSON 5 DAVID LOUNSBURY 13 
 
 GIDEON GOFF 6 ARMY SPERRY 8 
 
 STEPHEN ROBERTS 9 MOSES PORTER 8 
 JOHN THOMAS 8 
 
 1 Of Colonel Butler s regiment. 
 
 2 Of Capt. David Dorrance s company, Lieut. Col. Sherman s 
 regiment. 
 
 3 Of Capt. John Riley s company, Webb s regiment. 
 
 4 Of Capt. Stephen Betts company, Webb s regiment. 
 
 5 Of Capt. Selah Benton s company, Sherman s regiment. 
 
 6 Of Capt. Edward Bulkley s company, Webb s regiment. 
 
 7 Of Capt. Samuel W. Williams company, Webb s regiment. 
 
 8 Of Capt. Joseph Walker s company, Webb s regiment. 
 
 9 Of Capt. Samuel Sanford s company, Sherman s regiment. 
 
 10 Of Capt. David Parsons company, Webb s regiment. 
 
 11 Of Capt. Elisha Hopkins company, Webb s regiment. 
 
 12 Of Capt. Asahel Hodge s company, Sherman s regiment. 
 
 13 Of Capt. Roger Welles company, Webb s regiment. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 247 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 At Mr. Beekman s 
 
 Thursday 12 o clock [PEEKSKILL, April 25, 1783.] 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I arrived here about J^ an hour ago with Mrs. Bancker. 
 I inclose you a Letter from Genl. Trumbull. We wish to 
 see you immediately. We have no Hay for our horses 
 here. Is it not best for Richard to take the Horses home? 
 Does Mrs. Huntington go in with us. I can only say I am 
 extremely anxious to make the utmost dispatch as I left 
 my affairs at home at sixes and sevens. If Brother Jack 
 is with you I suppose he will come with you to see us. You 
 will do the needful about sending to Head Quarters. In 
 deed I do not think its needful to say anything about it. 
 At Connecticut every one goes and comes that pleases 
 without ceremony, and sending to Head Quarters will 
 delay us. You ll observe this day fortnight is our election. 
 I am in a hurry and almost crazy to get back. I hope every 
 thing is ready for our dispatch. 
 
 I am with compliments to the Circle, Yours sincerely, 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 You ll observe I leave the whole to your Government, 
 but beg you to dispatch us this afternoon if you can. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Samuel B. Webb, West Point. Per Master 
 Jack. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM NORTH. 
 Dear Colonel: 
 
 The Baron [Steuben] wrote your Brother some time 
 since of an affair between them, but as he has not answered 
 the Baron s letter he fears it has miscarried, and has sent 
 
248 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 him a duplicate which I must beg you to take the trouble 
 of forwarding. 
 
 The Baron presents his Compliments to you and Capt. 
 Webb, and asks the favor of your Company at dinner on 
 Friday next. This pleasure I hope you will not deny the 
 Baron and his family. 
 
 With the greatest respect I am, Dr. Colonel, your 
 Obedient servant, 
 
 WM. NORTH. 
 
 Tuesday afternoon, [FISHKILL, April 29, 1783.] 
 Addressed: Colonel Sam l B. Webb, West Point. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 [WETHERSFIELD, May, 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I suppose this will find you in York with your good 
 Mother, to whom please to make every apology in your 
 power for me. Tell her to forgive my seeming neglect. 
 We are all extremely anxious to have her back. I have 
 the satisfaction of telling you that your Horses are in fine 
 Order. William has behaved extremely well, but goes 
 away soon. Cant you get a likely Boy to live with you; a 
 Hessian is much the best. Philip has left Coits and gone 
 off. Mr. Richard Smith begs if you can conveniently find 
 a Hessian that has been waiter to an Officer, you would 
 send him one. Will it not be well for you to send out a good 
 firkin Irish butter, a Gloucester Cheese, some trifle of 
 Porter and ale, for your family, and some little matters 
 that may please Mrs. Bancker? Mr. Lloyd and a large 
 
 1 "Received June 2d, in New York." 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 249 
 
 circle dine with Broome this day. Abby Lloyd was married 
 last Thursday Evening. My baggage I left at John Miller s, 
 near the Coffee House. If not already come away please 
 to send me per the first opportunity. 
 
 I am, Dear Sam, Your affectionate Brother, 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
 I wish you would call on Joseph Hallet, if you know him. 
 He was very polite to me. So was John Miller. By the bye 
 Gen. Pfarsons] says you must call on Sam Jarvis in his 
 name and ask him to shew you an account of supplies to 
 Sheldon s Regiment during this war. Perhaps you may 
 find a certain Major s account. Its of consequence. 
 
 Yrs. Aff. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, to the Care of Mrs. Duncomb, 
 No. 20 Queen Street, New York. Per Mr. Stephen Chester and John 
 Wright. 
 
 FROM MRS. MARY DuYCKiNCK. 1 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, May 9th, 1783. 
 
 I received by Major Wright a few lines. Could not let 
 Richard go without writing a line or two, though am at a 
 loss what to say, as my writing faculties are not very bright. 
 However, if I had nothing more to say than that your 
 friends here are well, it would give you some degree of 
 Pleashure. You observe it must be very dull; your obser 
 vations are very just, it is much so indeed. Your Brother 
 is just returned from New York and left my good sister 
 behind. When or how she is to get back I know not. She 
 wrote me a few lines, though nothing particular. Your 
 
 1 She was the "Aunt Polly" of these letters. 
 
FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 brother says New York is very disagreeable. He was glad 
 to get out as soon as possible. I received a letter last 
 evening from your sister Hetty. Your friends in Boston 
 are all well. Miss Braisher is soon to be married to Mr. 
 Hall. She with Mrs. Gary is soon to be through here on 
 their way to Jersey. The Miss Smiths are with me, at 
 present at a dance, past twelve o clock. No appearance 
 of them yet. Will not intrude on your patience, will only 
 add my sincear wishes for your health. From your afec- 
 tionate friend, 
 
 M. D. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Samuel B. Webb, West Point. Richard Bacon. 
 
 FROM HENRY JACKSON. 
 
 HUTS FIRST MASS TTS BRIGADE, June 8, 1783. 
 Sir: 
 
 The inclosed is a copy of the Commander in Chief s 
 answer to our letter of yesterday, respecting the Drums 
 and Fifes inlisted for the war, being permitted to carry 
 Arms with them on Furlough. You will please to send it 
 to the several Commanding Officers of Regiments at and 
 near Westpoint. God bless you. 
 
 I am with much Esteem your friend and humble servant, 
 
 H. JACKSON. 
 
 P. S. The bearer will deliver you the prayer book. 
 
 H.J. 
 
 Addressed: Colo. Sam l B. Webb, or in his absence to Colo. John 
 Crane, West Point. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 25! 
 
 FROM STACY HEPBURN. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA, 7th July, 1783. 
 Sir: 
 
 Your Bill on Silas Deane in favor of J. Seagrove for 100 
 Sterling (and drawn about three years since) is now re 
 turned Protested, and as Mr. Seagrove is in Havanna you 
 will much oblige me by taking up the Bill as soon as Pos- 
 sable. The customary damages of this place is 20 per cent 
 and Cost of Protest and no Interest. I am Respectfully 
 Your Friend. 
 
 STACY HEPBURN. 
 
 Sure to let me hear from by return of Post. 
 
 Addressed: Samuel B. Webb, Esqr., supposed to be at Weathers- 
 field, Connecticut. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM STEPHENS SMITH. 
 
 Fryday, 2 oClock [NEW YORK, October, 1783.] 
 Dear Sam: 
 
 If you will accompany me to dinner this day, I will call 
 on you. The gentleman mentioned is to be one of the 
 Company, and we may have an opportunity of conversing 
 with him together upon the business. I hope it will not 
 interfere with your arrangements, but I think it best for 
 the dispatch of business that you take part of my room, 
 and that we lodge together. In short it must be so; there 
 fore govern yourself accordingly. Your friend, &c. 
 
 W. S. SMITH. 
 
252 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 To JOSEPH BARRELL. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 2 November, 1783. 
 Dear Barrell: 
 
 I have waited ten days for a private conveyance to for 
 ward you the hair for the rings, and the Pattinett for Sally; 
 none has offered. I shall send them by tomorrow s post. 
 Mrs. Bancker is anxious to have hers made considerable 
 smaller than yours. She likewise seems desirous that in 
 the place of the weeping Willow the Initials of her late 
 Husband and Mrs. Webb should be placed, viz. R. B. and 
 E. W., together with their age and time of Death. Mr. 
 Bancker died the i8th of April, 1775, in the 47th year of 
 his age. Mrs. Webb the i8th of November, 1781, in the 
 24th year of her age. If this can be done I wish you would 
 alter the Device and directions accordingly. In the one 
 done for me I could wish the Initials of Mrs. W T ebb, to 
 gether with her Age and Death, the interval decorated 
 with a weeping willow. When I say the interval I mean the 
 place left provided the age and time of Mrs. Webb s death 
 is placed around the outer edge of the ring. We all thank 
 you for the trouble you have already given yourself in this 
 business, but solicit your further attention in haveing 
 them executed. For that purpose I have sent you 19 pnWt 
 of old Gold. It is the wish of Mrs. Bancker it may be 
 made up in the rings; some [of] it has been near 100 years 
 in that family. If you think a Brooch is best for me, 
 order it. In short do for me as you would do for yourself. 
 Mrs. Gary s and Hetty s Hair you will please to get. I 
 have numbered the others agreeable to your directions. 
 
 [Unsigned.] 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 253 
 
 FROM JESSE DEANE. 1 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 The weather not permitting me to go out, and being in 
 want of some of my things, also to send the rest on to 
 Hartford, I shall be obliged to you to deliver them into the 
 hands of the bearer. The weather and my present situa 
 tion must excuse my not being more with you. 
 
 I remain my, Dear Brother, with sincere affection yours 
 
 JESSE DEANE. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, ijth November, 1783. 
 
 Addressed: A Monsieur Collonel Samuel B. Webb, at Werthersfield. 
 
 FROM JEDIDIAH HUNTINGTON. 
 
 [NORWICH], 17 November, 1783. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Upon my arrival at Norwich I found that Doctor 
 Holmes 2 had received a letter from Colonel Smith on the 
 subject of the memorandum you gave me, and that he had 
 prepared an answer as full as appeared necessary. I sent 
 the letter to Col. Smith by an opportunity which then pre 
 sented; at the same time gave the Col. my testimony of 
 the Doctor s character. Please to present Mrs. H. and 
 my compliments to Mrs. Bancker and the circle and be 
 lieve me, dear Sir, 
 
 Your sincere Friend and humble servant, 
 
 J. HUNTINGTON. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Webb, Wethersfield. Hon d by Col. Chester. 
 
 1 Son of Silas Deane, who had gone to France in the care of John 
 Adams, and had been educated there. 
 
 2 Probably Silas Holmes, of Connecticut, surgeon s mate in 1776, 
 and taken prisoner at the battle of Long Island. 
 
254 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM SIMEON DEANE. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 24 November, 1783. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 It being very probable that the weather tomorrow may 
 accomodate and even oblige my immediate departure, I can 
 not do otherwise than to make my most respectful adieu 
 in the situation which my present circumstances require. 
 
 Should you have any commands to N. York or to the 
 Southward, I shall be happy on every occasion to oblige 
 you, and beg you freely to write me on every opportunity. 
 
 I hope very shortly the pleasure of returning by this 
 country; interim pray make my most respectful compli 
 ments to Messrs Bancker and Miss Duyckinck, also to 
 your other worthy friends. I am with due respect and 
 real esteem, Dr. Sir, your very humble servt, 
 
 SIMEON DEANE. 
 
 Addressed: Colonel Sam l B. Webb, Wethersfield. Present. Per 
 John Moore. 
 
 FROM HECTOR ST. JOHN. 
 
 NEW YORK, 22d December, 1783. 
 
 Mr. St. John 1 presents his Compliments to General 
 Webb, feels himself much honored by the General s very 
 Polite Attention to the French Nation thro him. Mr. 
 St. John s short residence in this city has not yet given 
 him an opportunity of knowing all the Gentlemen of that 
 
 1 J. Hector St. John de Crevecceur, who had recently in Paris 
 published his Letters from an American Farmer, and returned to the 
 United States as French consul. See introduction in Lewisohn s edition 
 of the Letters. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 255 
 
 Nation who may at present be in this City, and therefore 
 cannot with propriety point out to General Webb such 
 as may be worthy of the Compliment the General means 
 to pay them. The Chevalier D Abeville and his Brother 
 Monsieur D Abeville are the only persons who Mr. St. 
 John can at present mention to the General. Mr. St. 
 John is sorry he was not at home when the General did 
 him the honor of calling upon him. 
 
 Addressed: Brig r General Webb, &c, &c, &c. 
 
 FROM JOSIAH WATSON. 
 
 ALEXANDRIA, I4th September, 84. 
 Sir: 
 
 Mr. McEwen with your favor of the 7th Curt, de 
 livered me forty four half Joes which I have accordingly 
 placed to the credit of Mr. Barrell, and am obliged by your 
 answering my Draft as also for the remittance. I beg 
 leave to offer you my service at this place as elsewhere. At 
 any time you may favor me with your commands due 
 attention shall be given. 
 
 Respectfully I am, Sir, Your most obedient, 
 
 JOSIAH WATSON. 
 
 a Df. in fav. Mr. J. Parker 70. o. o 
 
 do in Fav. Pollock & Urq[uhart] 49. 12. 3 
 
 44 half Joes 105. 12. o 
 
 225. 4. 3 Virginia Currency 
 Equal to 750 2/3 Dollars and 3d 
 
 Addressed: Samuel B. Webb, Merchant, New York. 
 
256 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM CHRISTOPHER BANCKER. 
 
 NEW YORK, October 4th, 1784. 
 Sir: 
 
 By the will of Mrs. Smith, Relicque of Judge William 
 Smith, find there is left a legacie of one hundred dollars 
 [30] to Mary Smith, daughter of Mr. John Smith, mer 
 chant of this place, which said Mary Smith is my wife. 1 
 By the will Mr. Ezekial Williams is appointed an executor. 
 This with many legacies bequeathed is to be paid out of the 
 Annuityes due from the estate of Judge Smith. Its long 
 since the same should have been paid. The season is fast 
 approaching which requires every comfort, and I am very 
 poorly provided with the means to obtain them. As this 
 Legacie will be the means of contributing much to the 
 number of necessaries we shall stand in need of, must re 
 quest you to demand from Mr. Williams the said hundred 
 dollars; in case he cannot pay you the same, then desire 
 an order in my favor on Thomas Smith, Esqr., who is at 
 present the Acting Executor to his father s estate and from 
 whence the payments must arise of the different legacies 
 left by Mrs. Smith. Your compliance with the above will 
 greatly serve Sir, your humble servant 
 
 CHRISR. BANCKER. 
 
 Addressed: Brig. Gen. Samuel B. Webb, Weathersfield. 
 
 1 The will is printed in New York Hist. Soc. Collections, 1904, 176. 
 William Smith was the noted jurist, who died in 1769, without making 
 a will. One of his sons was William Smith the historian. Mrs. Smith 
 was of the Williams family of Wethersfield, and a second wife. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 257 
 
 A. M. DE PEYSTER TO MRS. BANCKER. 
 
 Maddam: 
 
 In the Life Time of Mr. Bancker he employed me to 
 prosicute a Mrs. Hannah Cobb for House Rent due to him. 
 I accordingly issued against her at the suit of Mr. Bancker 
 five writs, upon neither of which coud she be taken. In 
 doing this I had to advance out my Pocket Money to the 
 Clerk of the Court and the Sheriff, which Money I am 
 still out Pocket. As I am now about endeavoring to settle 
 such Business as was left unsettled previous to the late 
 War, I have taken the Liberty to send you an account of 
 my costs accrued upon the above Business, which I should 
 be much obliged to you indeed to receive by the bearer. 
 I am, Maddam, Your Humble Servant, 
 
 A. M. DE PEYSTER. 
 
 QUEENS STREET, No. 156, November 10, 1784. 
 
 MEMORANDUM. 1 
 
 April 22nd, 1775, Marched for Boston, then a Lieut, in 
 an Independent Company. 
 
 l8th June, 1775, the day after the Battle of Bunkers 
 hill, promoted to the rank of Major and Aid-de-Camp to 
 Majr. Genl. Putnam. 
 
 May, 1776, promoted to the rank of Lieut. Colonel, Aid- 
 de-Camp and private Secretary to His Excellency General 
 Washington; with him thro: Jersey, at the Battles of 
 Trenton and Princeton. 
 
 January, 1777. Promoted by His Excellency to the 
 
 1 In the MS. of General Webb. 
 
258 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 command of a Regiment, and continued untill the disband 
 ing the Army in June, 1783. 
 
 Included in that number recommended to Congress by 
 General Washington when he resigned his Commission. 
 
 The last campaign was honored with the Command of 
 the Brigade of Light Infantry. 
 
 FROM WlNTHROP SARGENT. 1 
 
 Mr. Sargent s best regards to his worthy friends, Genl. 
 and Capt. Webb, requests their attention to the inclosed, 
 regrets very much that it has not been in his power to 
 contribute largely to their amusements in this town, but 
 assures them that his sincere wishes have been, are, and 
 shall continue for their pleasure and happiness. Begs 
 leave to present his respects to the family at Weathersfield, 
 and hopes they may be favored in an agreeable journey. 
 
 [BOSTON, January, 1785.] Wednesday evening. 
 
 FROM HENRY 
 
 Mr. Henry Remsen wishes for an opportunity to con 
 verse with Genl. Webb at his convenience. Mr. Remsen 
 being obliged to attend the Assembly has it not in his power 
 to spare an hour to wait upon Genl. Webb; but as he is 
 very desirous to see Genl. Webb begs he will be so good 
 
 1 Soon to become interested with General jRufus Putnam in the 
 Northwest Territory, of which he was secretary in 1787, and governor, 
 1798-1801. 
 
 2 One of the representatives in Assembly from the city of New York. 
 Among his colleagues were Aaron Burr, William Denning, Daniel 
 Dunscomb, Peter V. B. Livingston and Comfort Sands. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 259 
 
 to call at the Assembly Chamber at any hour between 10 
 o clock in the morning and I o clock P. M., or in the after 
 noon after 3 o clock. 
 
 Tuesday Evening, [New York], February 8th, 1785. 
 
 N. B. Mr. Remsen is at home in the morning till 10 
 O clock, and between 2 and 3 o clock P. M., and hopes 
 Genl. Webb will excuse the freedom of his request. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 1 
 
 [WETHERSFIELD, February 18, 1785.] 
 
 Do you reflect on his conduct while our Mother lay a 
 corpse in the House? Do you reflect on his conduct about 
 discharging Camps from the Debt of Brigham s? Pray 
 what Business did He do from April, 1768, to his going to 
 Congress ? What has He been about that he has not done 
 the Settlement. He s not to look to me for a Settlement 
 of the Estate. He can apply in his own time and manner. 
 
 Let him get good Bondsmen and We will soon find some 
 Method of making a close. His conduct can t possibly 
 deceive you. 
 
 What has come into my Hands either J. W- - deed- 
 Mr Deed S. D., I have kept such Accompts as to shew; 
 but when in his name, the Question is how came they his. 
 Why He says to [seal] let my Son be equal with the Rest, 
 in short He knows no [seal] With all of his great Abilities. 
 
 I believe if the Angle Gabriel was to undertake to settle 
 Accots. with such a vulgar Sett, that could throw out the 
 
 1 A fragment directed against Silas Deane. 
 
260 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Interest, He would have his Hands full. He would be 
 charged with all kind of villany, and must one go thro all 
 this for a vile, Wicked, designing Man? 
 
 But while I do undertake I will drive to the Last to get 
 into Notes. I have a long Lawsuit with Sam Curtiss, 
 Jona. Bigelow, and a variety of others; a Lawsuit at 
 Litchfield, one breaking here, one dying insolvent there, 
 nothing can be more disagreeable. I leave you to reflect 
 on the Whole. Yrs. Sincerely. 
 
 [No signature.] 
 
 JEREMIAH WADSWORTH TO HENRY KNOX. 
 
 -p^ ~. NEW YORK, February 26, 1785. 
 
 It is now in contemplation to appoint you Secretary at 
 War. The Salary may possibly be 2500 dollars per an 
 num, which is certainly too small, but small as it is, it will 
 be 500 dollars less, and not worth your acceptance. 1 Our 
 friend Sam B. Webb is here and out of business. His 
 talents you are no stranger to. I think them good, and 
 know he would be glad of the first place under you; and 
 if you should accept with either of the above Salaries 
 they will not maintain you here. Could you not visit 
 occasionally your office here, and leave Webb to execute 
 in your Place, and pursue your schemes in Boston? If 
 you do not accept your recommendation, with the interest 
 Webb could make would obtain the appointment for him. 
 You see I do not apologize beforehand, nor will do it at 
 all. I would not ask a favor of five men in the world for 
 myself or friend, and the number is equally small to whom 
 
 1 It was fixed at 2,450 dollars, March 4, 1785. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 26l 
 
 I would be under obligation. Please to present my com 
 pliments to Mrs. Knox and love to the children. I am, 
 dear Sir, your sincere friend and servant, 
 
 JERE WADS WORTH. 
 
 P. S. I shall be at Hartford about the time you receive 
 this. 1 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Yours of the 9th instant is the first letter I have had from 
 you this long time. We have all thot. hard of it, for we 
 have been in the disagreeable situation of hope, fear, 
 anxiety and doubt. We heard Mrs. Bfancker] was ill, 
 sometimes dead; but no letters from you or Brother Jack 
 until of late. We are all sincere mourners with you and 
 Aunt Polly. I wish the Good Girl was now here. We 
 shall receive her with open arms. Poor Mrs. B[ancker]. 
 I little thot. my last waiting of her down to Chester s 
 would be the last sight of the Good Lady. How transitory 
 and vain are all earthly things, yet how little do we realize 
 it, how soon forget. A few days and it must be said of 
 us, Why he was So & So, and forgot. A thousand and 
 a thousand reflections rushes in at once to make me gloomy. 
 Tell Aunt Polly Mrs. Wfebb] would write her but she cant 
 write yet, but will so soon as she can. She most sensibly 
 
 1 From the Knox Papers in the New England Historic Genealogical 
 Society. In his reply, dated March 10, Knox said: "I love Webb, and 
 should be happy to have the power to serve him, more especially when 
 requested by you, for whom I have the most unequivocal friendship." 
 
 Writing again on April 30, Wadsworth said: "I sincerely wish 
 Webb may have some appointment. If Carleton resigns, I think Webb 
 will suit you." 
 
262 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 feels the loss of Our Dear Dear Mrs. B[ancker]. I feel 
 extremely anxious about the property. Do you think 
 the business was well done? What does Doct. Johnson 
 say in confidence? You had better shew him the papers 
 and consult with him. Depend on it, if they can they 
 will give you trouble. Consult with the Doctor, shew him 
 the deeds. I have many reasons for it. I have seen 
 Jferemiah] W[adsworth] twice since his return. He ap 
 pears quite attentive and polite. I can t but think he s 
 much [more] the friend of S[ilas] D[eane\ than ours, but 
 perhaps I injure him. So I shall take no notice until I see 
 you. I now come to the part of your letter that distresses 
 me exceedingly. I see no way at present. I will write 
 you soon but it distresses me beyond description. Cant 
 Erklen help you, and Brother Jack to half the debt, and 
 secure the rest? What says he to Capt Webb? My 
 heart is good, so is my mind, will, and everything but 
 purse. 
 
 I inclose a small sketch of our landed situation, mort 
 gages, &c., but they command no money. My situation is 
 truly distressing. I have too much business, and all seems 
 to no advantage or but trifling as to myself. 
 
 The debts trouble me, the lands above all are trouble 
 some beyond description. Burnham harrasses me in the 
 law. I must soon meet Judge Wolcott, Esq. Lee and 
 Treadwell, who is a committee appointed on our affair. I 
 hope to baffle him, but it s tedious. Old Carter s mortgage 
 to our Mother I fear will prove an entailment and we lose 
 it. I have a sea of Troubles with those old neglects of 
 S. D[eane]. I am sued to Litchfield, an old war affair 
 of S Deane s. I have my hands full but I will endeavor 
 to push them. I have had no visitors at my house since 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 263 
 
 Br. Jack left us. I renounce company as much as possible. 
 I am sincerely Yr. Afft. Br. 
 
 J. W. 
 
 Sunday Evening, March 13 th, 1785. 
 
 P. S. I have many letters to write; my eyes rather 
 weak. I cant even look over and correct. After you read 
 it correct and make the necessary stops for fear some 
 person may see it. Amos Bull lives in the house of S. 
 Dfeane]. Appears to be a good neighbor. You must 
 know Mr. Henry Deming. Returned last Sunday. I saw 
 him at church. I asked him if he brot. me letters. No. 
 But he said Mrs. B[ancker] was dead. G[ood] God, said I, 
 I never heard she was ill. He then said afterwards he 
 did not know she was dead, but from what he heard she 
 was. Thus for some days, and indeed until I saw Wads- 
 worth, was our suspense. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, New York. Per Major John 
 
 Wyllys. 
 
 FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. 
 
 HARTFORD, March 13, 1785. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have your favor of the 9th March. The matter in 
 Congress ended as I expected. Knox will accept. 1 You 
 must look out for something else. When he comes on he 
 will call on me. I will then try him for you; he is disposed 
 to serve you, so says his letter to me. Apply to Shaler to 
 raise the money for Governor s bill. I will let your broth- 
 
 1 The Secretaryship at War. Webb had been suggested for the 
 place, and had only Knox as a real competitor. 
 
264 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 ers know your distresses, but I have little hope. It is not 
 possible for me to supply you with 1000 dollars at present, 
 nor can I put out money to ly longer than Church s arrival, 
 as my friends have pressed me so hard that I have lent all 
 the partnership money, and must absolutely refund it in 
 June so that whatever money I furnish you cant ly beyond 
 that time. Those of your securities that are in your own 
 name you ought not to sell; but such as you have pur 
 chased are like other papers, and may as well be sold as 
 kept. Shaler may furnish you to pay Governor s bill and 
 take your note to Wadsworth and Church, whose money 
 he must pay it out of. I will write you more fully next 
 week. Say nothing about my opinion that Knox will 
 accept, or that I have wrote on your subject. I am Dr. 
 Webb, sincerely your friend. 
 
 J. WADSWORTH 
 
 You may lodge any securities you please in trust with 
 N. S[haler] for W. & C. 
 
 Addressed: General Webb, New York. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH BARRELL. 
 
 BOSTON, March lyth, 1785. 
 
 Dear Sam: 
 
 We were very unhappy last evening on receipt of yours 
 of the loth giving us the melancholy account that Mrs. 
 Bancker was no more. The suddenness of her departure, 
 without (to us) the least intimation of her indisposition, 
 was the more afflicting; but so are the ways of Heaven, 
 "Dark and intricate" to mortals who see but a little way, 
 And when I reflect on that happy situation, which I have 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 265 
 
 no doubt awaits the virtuous hereafter, I envy all those 
 who like Mrs. Bancker leave a wel-grounded hope behind 
 them; and on any rational plann, (such are the troubles 
 of life,) tis a happiness to leave the world, before the world 
 leaves us. I mean before old age gives a keener edge to 
 every calamity, and blunts that of every enjoyment which 
 is the too common lot of advanced life. For Aunt Polly 
 we feel sensibly. Such friendship as I hear subsisted be 
 tween the Sisters, was never formed to end in time, and I 
 sincerely wish her that support which God alone can give, 
 and which he is ever ready to afford to those that love him. 
 I confess much of the happiness I promised myself by a 
 visit to N. York is by this providence,, forever debarred; 
 but remember tis but a little while and the virtuous shall 
 meet to part no more forever; certainly a perswasion of this 
 truth must be more than a balance for every ill in life. 
 Hetty and Sally join in our best wishes for your happiness 
 and in affectionate condolence with Aunt Polly, who we 
 should all of us be very happy to see in Boston. 
 
 As to my horses, I want them as soon as you can con 
 veniently send them, and I leave it to you to do it in the 
 way you think best. If you send them to Providence, let 
 them be to the care of Mr. George Benson, Mercht. there, 
 with a letter to send them on by the post, unless a private 
 hand he can depend on. I wish you to settle the account 
 with Henry Livingston and take his note for the balance, 
 which if paid in May will do; but I want to enter it as 
 settled in my book. If you are sure Campbell and Hunt- 
 ington are at Quebec send the notes to some friend you 
 can depend on, to recover from the rascals. I cant con 
 ceive for what the Attorney has charged you two guineas, 
 for keeping the note, which I fear is worth nothing. 
 
266 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 I am, with love to Jack if he is with you, Dr. Sam, yr 
 Affect. Friend and Bro., 
 
 JOSEPH BARRELL. 
 
 Addressed: Samuel B. Webb, Merchant, New York. Per post. 
 
 FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. 
 
 HARTFORD, March 20, 1785. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 I visited your Brother last week to tel him your wants. 
 He replied, you see how impossible it is "for me to do 
 anything." I told him I had hopes of borrowing of Mr. P. 
 Jones two or three hundred pounds for you; as I was about 
 paying that sum to him I believed he would chuse to have 
 it out on interest. He made no reply. My wish was that 
 he would have offered to give his note for it. In that case 
 I should have given Jones my security privately, and held 
 your public papers as my security. But he said no more. 
 I have not yet obtained an answer from Jones, but hope 
 in a day or two. He liked the matter at first but he seems 
 now rather to be backward. If I obtain it I shall ask Jos 
 to give his note for it. Write me on this subject. I have 
 just received a letter from General . Knox. He accepts 
 the appointment, and will be at New York the I2th of 
 March. Your friends here are all well. My compliments 
 to your brothers and all friends. I am, dear sir, Your 
 Kind and H Srvt., 
 
 JERE. WADSWORTH, 
 
 Addressed: To General Webb, New York. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 267 
 
 FROM SARAH BARRELL. 
 
 Dear Brother: BosTON A P ril IIth 
 
 We received your Melancholy letter giveing an account 
 of the sudden Death of our friend Mrs. Banker. I 
 never was more surprized, and truly sorry for good Aunt 
 Polly s lonely situation. Hetty and myself pity, and 
 mourn for you both, as it must renew the great loss of our 
 dear Betsy whom unknown I really loved, and shall ever 
 respect her Memory. I hope you do not indulge grief to 
 prey on you, but behave more like a Christian. Remem 
 ber that after a few short years we shall join the beloved 
 circle that has gone before. While they are at rest we 
 must toil on, and endure pain and disapointment, the com 
 mon Lot of Mortals. I have had my share of the bitter 
 cup, yet I hope to see many good Days yet, If my dear 
 Brothers lived near me I should be much happier, the 
 Distance is much too great. Wish it was for your In- 
 trest to come and spend the remainder of your days in 
 Boston. Your constitution is frail, and I am anxious that 
 you do not take good [care] of yourself. The gentlemen 
 live too gay a Life for you in York, their customs are dis- 
 agreable. However a sensible Man is not obliged to follow 
 those that are injurious to his health. I shall expect that 
 you will in the course of the Summer make us a Visit and 
 bring Aunt Polly. I shall bid her welcome and endeavour 
 to make her happy. I wish you would write me more 
 frequent, and keep alive that tender affection that we 
 always have felt for each other, and I sincerely hope may 
 continue as long as Life. Mr. Barrell and my littel ones 
 are in health. This evening I received a letter from Josey 
 Barrell in Lisbon. He desired to be remembered to you 
 
268 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 and Brother Jack. I have nothing new to acquaint you 
 of. General Knox, who is the bearer of this, can inform 
 you more than I can. My best wishes attend you all; 
 good night my peace be with you. 
 
 Your affectionate Sister, 
 
 SARAH BARRELL. 
 
 Mr. and Mrs Graham 1 are going to the Southard; they 
 leave this place sometime this week. When they arrive 
 at York I wish you would notice them, as they were polite 
 enough to call for our Commands. S. BARRELL. 
 
 Addressed: Mr. Sam. B. Webb, New York. By General Knox. 
 
 MARIA HENRIETTA STABLES TO SARAH BANCKER. 
 
 Madam: 
 
 I wrote you the 1 5th of May last, in answer to yours, 
 wherein I told you I should draw on you for three Hun 
 dred Pounds, in two Bills one at Sixty Days sight, the 
 other at Ninety; I have been very favourable to you, in 
 drawing for so small a sum, so large a one being due to 
 me; you say the Lands are now lett in defferent Farms; 
 and I am informed for this two Years past they have been 
 Cultivated; therefore you are now inabled to pay me part 
 of the long arrears due to me. Mr, Bancker was repre 
 sented to me as a Man of Large property, and unblemish t 
 Character, I dare say Mr. Neave found him so or he 
 would not have proposed my sinking the Money with him. 
 I hope Mr. Neave & Son will be with you before the Bills 
 
 1 Catharine Macauley Graham, of England, whose visit to the 
 United States attracted no little attention. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 269 
 
 become due; as Trustee for me they have a Power to 
 settle with you; 
 
 I am Madam your Hume. Servt., 
 
 H. M. STABLES. 
 WALTON UPON THAMES, SURREY, May 3Oth, 1785. 
 
 Addressed: Mrs. Sarah Bancker, widow of the late Mr. Richard 
 Bancker, Merchant, of New York, America. 
 
 FROM WINTHRO;P SARGENT. 
 Dear Webb : BOSTON, June ist, 1785. 
 
 A young friend of mine is gone on to Philadelphia and 
 Baltimore by water, and returns through York to this place. 
 He is a son of Mr. Sergent, of about 21 years, and tho he 
 has never before been from home is I think an accomplished 
 lad. I believe you saw him when you was last in this 
 place. I have given him a line to Clarkson and Platt, 
 and should have wrote to you by him but that he was in 
 haste and intended introducing him in this way. Will 
 you be so obliging as to introduce him to some of our 
 worthy friends, Ladies and Gentlemen, I will esteem it a 
 favor. Believe me sincerely yours, W. SARGENT. 
 
 LANDS NEAR CROWN POINT, NEW YORK. 
 
 No. i. A Deed given by Sir Henry Moore, Governor 
 and Captain General of the Province of New York, to 
 John Curten who had served in his Majesty s 48th Regi 
 ment of Foot, for 200 acres of land, in the County of Albany, 
 lying on the east side of Lake Champlain, distinguished in 
 a map by Lot No. One hundred and Twenty-Three, given 
 
270 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 and signed by the said Governor Moore in the City of 
 New York, the 3Oth day of June 1766. 
 
 No. 2 - - John Garten s Lease and Release to John Wat 
 son of the above named 200 acres of land, dated New York, 
 the 9th and loth day of July 1771. 
 
 No. 3 - - John Watson s Deed of Sale to Richard Bancker 
 for the above named 200 acres of land, dated the I4th day 
 of June, 1769. 
 
 No. 4. One Deed of 50 acres of land given by Jeddediah 
 Ferris to John Watson, lying on the east side of Lake 
 Champlain, and distinguished by Lot. No. 32, lying about 
 five and a half miles north from Crown point. Said deed 
 is dated the 3Oth day of November 1768. 
 
 No. 5. One other Deed from Jeddediah Ferris to 
 John Watson for 50 acres of land, known and distinguished 
 by Lot No. 67, dated the 3Oth day of March, 1769. 
 
 New York, 6th June 1785. I do acknowledge to have 
 received from Saml. B. Webb the above described Deeds 
 and Leases for the purpose of examining into the situa 
 tion of the lands, and that they are his property, to be 
 delivered him so soon as I have made the necessary in 
 quiries about the state of the lands. 
 
 WM. BLODGET. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I think you are now indebted to me not less than several 
 letters, but for some reason you have wholly neglected 
 writing of me. If its done with design I wish to know it. 
 Altho it seems extremely odd, yet I will not at present har 
 bor such a disagreeable sentiment; but I must beg you to 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 27! 
 
 put me out of suspense, and write me in your old friendly 
 brotherly stile. I have expected you here long before this 
 with Aunt Polly; both Mrs. Webb and and I shall be happy 
 to see you so soon as you can make it convenient. 
 
 Write me per the return of the post about those goods 
 that were sent you by Simpson. 1 I wish you would write 
 me particular about his orders. Jonathan is now in the 
 country, and demands for those Cursed Goods the Hard 
 Cash and the Interest so for the Monies I have Col 
 lected to keep His Estate from Confiscation. I think we 
 shall differ. Jonathan is a little Hotspur that must be 
 Coold down. 
 
 I am full of Business to get a full settlement of all those 
 old affairs. Do tell me how you find Mrs. Bancker s 
 estate. I hope not much Involved or troublesome. What 
 has been your Delay for not coming this way? Brother 
 Jack is now at Middletown, and has thoughts of going on 
 to Quebec. I think He will have an agreeable jaunt. 
 Stephen Chester, Tommy Leverett, both are going. I wish 
 it may open a Door of Proffitable Trade. We have two 
 small vessels that will sail this week. I am quite anxious 
 about some Bills in the Hands of Mr. Atkinson. I feel the 
 delays will make me loose my Monies. I wish you would 
 Call on Mr. Atkinson and give him a Receipt for the Bills 
 and forward me, that I may arrange them and forward by 
 the first good Opportunity to England. I am Dear Brother 
 Yr Most Affectionate Br., Jos. WEBB. 
 
 [WETHERSFIELD,] June 27th, 1785 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, New York. 
 
 1 John Simpson. See p. 13, supra. Jonathan was his son by a 
 first wife. 
 
272 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, July 5th, 1785. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 For Heaven s sake keep me no longer in suspense. Write 
 me you mean to neglect me, or write me one line you do 
 not mean it. I believe you are in debt not less than half a 
 dozen letters. Upon my word I can make no reasonable 
 excuse for you, but I am too fond a Brother to give up that 
 its meant. I am conscious I do not deserve it. Brother 
 Jack is gone to Quebec in company with Leverett, Stephen 
 Chester, [and] Wait Goodrich. I wish him success. Our 
 adventure is about four or five hundred consequence, half 
 his n and half mine. I wrote him he might take the whole; 
 or if I did not hear from him, I should consider our concern 
 jointly and severally. I hope he may do well. [Miles] 
 Sherbrooke is now at New London; will be at New Haven 
 on Saturday. Leaves New Haven on Tuesday for Horse- 
 neck. When are you coming this way with Aunt Polly? 
 If you wish, and you come by water to New Haven, I will 
 send my carriage for you. Indeed I hope I shall meet you 
 at New Haven next week, where I have thoughts of going 
 for the health of my good Mrs. Webb, who is as thin as you 
 ever saw. I wish you would call on Atkinson and get up 
 my bills. He asks for his brother s receipt. I cannot find 
 one, but I must get you to give one in my behalf. I shall 
 lose by delay, perhaps a total loss if I do not attend it; 
 therefore you see of the consequence. Forward it per the 
 first opportunity. Will you write me the price current 
 with you. Your affectionate Br., Jos. WEBB. 
 
 What says friend McEvers since his return? What is 
 Congress about? Is there not an opening for you? What 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 273 
 
 are your prospects? Will you consent to let me know all 
 these affairs, and do you meet with any difficulties with 
 the heirs of your late Mrs. W- -, 1 Will you forward 
 your instruments to Col. Chester? 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, New York. 
 
 FROM RICHARD GARY, JUNIOR. 
 
 ST. CROIX, 8 July, 1785. 
 My dear friend: 
 
 This is just to advise you that I wrote you last week by 
 Captain Campbell, in answer to your several favors. I 
 also wrote Mrs. Gary by the same Opportunity. I expect 
 to finish my Crop by the last of next week, and shall em 
 bark for N. York or Boston in about 20 Days, I hope. 
 Capt. Lowndes is getting under way, so God bless you. 
 
 My love to all friends. Yours very cordially, 
 
 RICHARD GARY, JUNIOR. 
 
 Capt. Campbell was in a Brig bound to N. York. 
 
 Addressed : Brigadier General Samuel B. Webb, New York. Favored 
 by Capt. Lowndes. 
 
 FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON. 
 
 MANOR LIVINGSTON, Aug. 10, 1785. 
 Dear General: 
 
 I was under the necessity of leaving New York some 
 days sooner than I did intend, by which means I found it 
 
 1 July 15, 1785, administration was granted to Webb on the estate 
 of Richard Bancker, as Sarah, the executrix under the merchant s will, 
 died before the estate was settled. 
 
274 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 impossible to collect monies sufficient to make a payment 
 to you at the time intended; neither could I sell flour for 
 any price that was a saving one, to raise monies for you; 
 but be assured you shall be paid both principal and interest 
 as soon as possible. I am with sentiments of true Respect 
 Your friend, 
 
 HENRY LIVINGSTON. 
 
 FROM DQ. DEBARTZCHY. 
 
 FORT SCHUYLER, August 28th, 1785. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Your Packet of the i8th by Mr. Dawson I received; am 
 much indebted for your excuses in my favor and hope they 
 may succeed. I shall leave this place today. Shall write 
 you from Oswego. Please make my compliments to Mrs. 
 Dunscomb and family, Baron Steuben, Coll. [Nicholas] 
 Fish, Major North and Major [John Francis] Hamtranck. 
 I am Your friend and Humbl Servt., 
 
 DO. DEBARTZCHY. 
 
 Genl. Webb. Pr. favor Dr. Elliot. 
 
 FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN, JUNIOR. 
 
 BOSTON, 3rd October, 1785. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 Yours by Saturday s post I received. I can only say 
 I wish you had been in the way to purchase the articles I 
 wrote for; they would have answered well at the price I 
 quoted. Business seems at present very dull, and I dont 
 know of any article between this and your market worth 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 275 
 
 attention. Speculations of every kind between this place 
 and York depend entirely in expedition. 
 
 I have thoughts of going either to one of the Carolinas 
 or Jamaica. I have received advantageous proposals re 
 specting both, but am not certain which to accept. Shall 
 write you more particularly when I have made up my mind. 
 In the meantime with respects, compt. and Love where due, 
 I remain, Dr Webb, Your Friend, &c., 
 
 JONATHAN FREEMAN, JUNIOR. 
 
 N. B. Remember, never tuck a little bit of paper in 
 your Letter again if you would save double Postage. - 
 
 Economy 
 
 Addressed: Samuel B. Webb, Merchant, New York. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 LIVINGSTONS MANNOR, 3rd October, 1785. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I arrived here yesterday from Albany, where I was 
 detained a few days by our mutual friend, Col. Henry 
 Livingston, who I came here with by water. I left Que- 
 beck the I3th September, at which place I arrived after 
 having fifty-eight days passage from New London. The 
 particulars of my Tour I will refer till I have the happiness 
 of seeing you, which I hope will be soon in Weathersfield. 
 I go from this to Salsbury this week, to examine our prop 
 erty at that place, and I am determined to devote this fall 
 and winter to the settlement of our estate. 
 
 The Estate you had to settle I hope is closed, and your 
 mind must be much more at ease. 
 
 Remember me Affectionately to Aunt P[oll]y and to all 
 
276 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 my friends with you, who I wish to see exceedingly, but 
 Business will not admit. I shall be anxious to hear from 
 you on my arrival at our Brothers, and I must request you 
 not to let me be disappointed. 
 
 I must request you to remember me very particularly 
 to our worthy friends Mr. and Mrs. Sherbrook. The 
 latter I hope has perfectly recovered her health. If you 
 can by any means procure me a well broke pointer you will 
 render me a very essential service by sending him to Weath- 
 ersfield. Our friend Jack Shaw 1 has one that was Beach s, 
 which I think he will give you. 
 
 I am yours affectionately, 
 
 JOHN WEBB. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, New York. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 NEW HAVEN, I7th October, 1785. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 Some matters of Business has oblig d my comeing on as 
 farr as Horseneck, at which place I expect to continue 
 two or three days. I leave this very early tomorrow 
 morning. I arrived from Quebec to my Brothers on 
 wensday last after a very fatigueing jant. I found Mrs. 
 W[ebb] was very much disappointed that Aunt P[oIIy] had 
 not been there. I expected to have found her there. My 
 inclination leads me to New York^ but business prevents 
 me from comeplying. I must request you to remember 
 me particularly to Aunt P. and the family you are with, 
 and to our worthy Circle in the City. I expect you will 
 
 1 In 1799 John Shaw had a house on Pearl Street. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 277 
 
 write me very particularly by the first opportunity. I am 
 very desirous of seeing a long letter from you. I should 
 write you more fully, but as the Stages are very uncertain 
 I shall only ask you a few questions. Did you receive a 
 letter from me dated at the Mannor of Livingston? Who 
 are those that are giveing you trouble respecting the Es 
 tate? You must be particular in remembering me to my 
 most worthy and Amiable friend N. S. 1 Esq. also to the one 
 in Smith s and Bd. Way. I have a vast many things 
 to say, but will omit them till we meet. When that will 
 be, god only knows. If Aunt P. will come out in the 
 Stage I shall be at Horseneck and will accompany her. 
 Write if you can by the return of the Stage. May every 
 Happiness attend you is the sincere wish of your friend, 
 
 J. W T . 
 
 Excuse this scrawl. What are the Grand Counsel 
 doing? 
 
 Addressed: Genl. Saml. B. Webb, No. 4 Great Dock Street, New 
 York. Favored by Doctr. Eustice. 
 
 FROM JOHN DUYCKINCK. 
 
 NEW BRUNSWICK, October the 24th, 1785. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I received your favor of the 19. inst. and am sorry that 
 any misunderstanding should be relative to the Mills. I 
 very plainly told you that I would take the Mills on four 
 yearly payments at fourteen hundred pounds, York Cur 
 rency, begining first of May next, on consideration that 
 
 Shaler. 
 
278 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 I could know imediately, that I might have had time to 
 repare the House and have moved my Family this fall. 
 Although a greater price than they are worth, this was the 
 motive that induced me to offer that very extraordinary 
 price; for if I had have given a greater price than the Mill 
 possibly was worth, I would have been the gainer, by have- 
 ing my Family together. I do assure you upon my honor 
 that I think by continuing at the Mills since the war on 
 the uncertainty that I have had them, has been at least 
 five hundred pounds damage, which has caused me to 
 promise myself to have nothing to do with them, and have 
 made up my mind to purchas a Mill some where else. I 
 did on fryday last purchase a Mill within one mile of this 
 place, but to my great mortification the person declined 
 at the time the writings where to have been executed. I 
 still expect in the course of next week that the bargain will 
 be compleated. I wish you had a good price for your 
 mills. I have always did whatever was in my power to 
 sell them, and have endeavoured to raise the value of 
 them. Notwithstanding I ofered you that great price, if 
 you recolect, I recommended that you ought to have sold 
 them to Mr. Wallace at the time he ofered twelve hundred 
 pounds, and I now recomend it you that if you are ofered 
 one thousand pounds, not to wait to. know if it suits this 
 one or the other one, but imediately determine your bargain 
 and shake them from you. I know the general voice of 
 the People is that if you get nine hundred pounds for your 
 mills it is the extent of their value, although my opinion 
 is more. However as you wish me to keep charge of your 
 Mills untill May next I will do it, although I do not expect 
 to be their, or do any business at them. I wish that you 
 had have been more particular with respect to the bolts, 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 279 
 
 screens, &c. because I shall want the bolts, &c. at this 
 place, and will be sorry to take them out of the Mills, 
 because others must be placed before business can be done. 
 Besides it will have an odd appearance, notwithstanding it 
 will not suit me to purchase others before I know certain 
 weather you take them or not. I will do everything in 
 power to your intrest with respect to the Mills. 
 
 You have been kind enough to write of Mr. Oberle. I 
 hearwith send you the several accounts of the flour and 
 proceeds of the wheat taken and belonging to Evert and 
 John Duyckinck out of Mr. Abraham Van Nest s Mills, 
 as also my afidavits, which will through light and freshen 
 the memory of Mr. Oberle, as also other afidavids. Per 
 haps he may give a certificate, which if he does let it be 
 given in the name of John Duyckinck, surviving partner 
 of Evert. If it is to be antedated, then in the name of 
 Evert and John. I wish you to write of Mr. Oberle imedi- 
 ately, that the same papers here sent may be returned with 
 the same boat, Capt. Vorhees, or anything that may be 
 agreed between Mr. Oberle and yourself. I am with every 
 respect your sincere friend and Humble Servant, 
 
 JOHN DUYCKINCK. 
 
 FROM JOHN LIVINGSTON. 
 
 Mr. John Livingston requests the favor of Genl Webb s 
 company to dinner on Saturday next at 4 o clock. 
 
 Wednesday Noon 
 
 [NEW YORK, January, 1786.] 
 
28O FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 Dear Brother: WETHERSFIELD, January 1st, 1786. 
 
 Not one line have I received from either you or Brother 
 Jack; to me it appears extremely odd. Just after you left 
 me Maj. Edwd. Bulkley call d to see you; thinks extremely 
 hard of you; says you owe him a Sum of Mony which you 
 promised payment long before this. He was hurt, said he 
 had always been your first and fast friend. He was told by 
 Numbers at the first they would answer. He would think 
 otherway before you had done with Him. I told him, I 
 never knew you owed him a farthing; I wisht him to sus 
 pend every hard thought untill he saw you. You would, 
 I engaged, do him strict Justice. In short I soften d him 
 down and made matters easy for the present, but He thinks 
 hard of you. If agreeable, I wish you would write me how 
 matters are between you, and where you have fail d of your 
 promises to him. Your last visit here was such a flying 
 visit, that it seems more like a Dream than a reality that 
 you have been with us. I wish it had been consistent with 
 your Business to have staid with us longer. What shall 
 be done, my Good Brother, to fill my Tan Yards with 
 Hides? Once filPd would be something genteel for my 
 family for Life. Can you help me to get a quantity from 
 the Havana? How great is your consequence? Can it be 
 done? Consult with Brother Jack. Its of much and seri 
 ous consequence to us as a family. Once filPd will make 
 us all hold up our Heads. If I have friends, now is the 
 time to help me. Write me a long circumstantial letter. 
 Will McEvers help or not? Jemmy has been with me this 
 day and taken New Year s dinner. Where is Mrs. Sherry? 
 Where is Mr. Sherbrooke and all our friends? Your sister 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 28l 
 
 Webb, Mr. and Mrs. Bull, and all the Circle desire love. 
 Little Betsy Bancker say Yes, Uncle Sam (all that we [can] 
 make the little puss say). All the children are hearty and 
 well. Have you good sleighing in New York? Write me 
 fully and often. Let Br. Jack see this; tell him not to for 
 get me but do the needful. You must accept my thanks 
 for your paying Mr. Lott. I wish when you or Brother 
 Jack answer my letters, you would endeavor to answer 
 them by looking over my letter of the time, and answer it 
 as particular as possible. A - has been a series of un 
 easiness since you left us, but its again smooth weather. 
 Tell Brother Jack some Cheap Breakfast Tea will please, 
 but I do not love to ask him. He s a kind indulgent ready 
 and obliging Br. whenever its in his power. A little good 
 parchment and some Vellum will not come amiss when he 
 comes home. All the family desire their most tender and 
 affectionate regards to you and H [seal]. Yrs Sincerely, 
 
 J WEBB. 
 
 If possible get out of J. W[adsworth s] Debt; its the 
 soonest way to get him to help. 
 
 Sunday Evening, Jany. i, 1786. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, New York, Per Cap. Fowler. 
 
 JOSEPPI WEBB TO JOHN WEBB. 
 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Accept my thanks for your Letter. I did intend to 
 come to York with Mrs. W[ebb], but I shall wait for the 
 explanation of your letter. Write me per the return of 
 this post. Its true I owe Mony in [New] York, but shurly 
 
282 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 [to] no one that would hurt me. What do you mean? 
 What do you allude to? I do not wish to come to be in 
 sulted attached or touched. I thought it would be of 
 service to go and chatt with them, and tell them what I was 
 about, and push for a Quantity of Hides. A Quantity of 
 Hides, a thousand pounds worth, would be a resort for a 
 something for all our family; its of amazing consequence. 
 Should McEvers help me to three or four thousand Hides, 
 how soon after I could pay him and all other my Debts in 
 1 8 months after I should receive the Hides. I should be 
 able to pay Every farthing I owe in the world. Write me 
 fully for you make me anxious. Yrs Sincerely, 
 
 [No signature.] 
 January Qth, 86. 
 
 Yr Sister W[ebb] and all desire to be remembered to you 
 most affectionately. 
 
 Addressed: To Capt. John Webb, to the Care of Mr. John Alsop, 
 South Street, New York. Per Doct. Cutler. 
 
 SARAH WICKHAM 1 TO MRS. RICHARD MORRIS. 2 
 
 Dear Mrs. Morris: 
 
 I presume to ask the favor of your Slay for two hours 
 this afternoon (knowing your readiness to oblige). 
 
 Fan wishes to Call on Mrs. Williams, Mrs. [Henry] Knox, 
 
 1 Wife of William Wickham of New York. 
 
 2 Richard Morris was a judge of the New York Supreme Court of 
 Judicature, and lived in the city. He was a member of the State 
 convention to ratify the Constitution of the United States. Soon 
 after 1802 he removed to Claverack, Columbia County, whither Webb 
 also retired. The son, Robert Hunter Morris, was long prominent in 
 New York politics. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 283 
 
 Miss Vanburch, and several others, as a part of each of 
 their families have been here today. And as your daughter 
 I flatter myself you feal interest d. And be assur d no 
 person will be more watchfull to return the obligation 
 than your friend, 
 
 SARAH WICKHAM. 
 [NEW YORK, January 30, 1786.] 
 
 FROM WILLIAM WICKHAM. 
 
 Mr. Wickham would rejoice at an opportunity of show 
 ing Mr. Wadsworth every Respect, and would have de 
 livered him a Ticket this morning, if he had thought him 
 self at liberty to have done it by the Rules of the Assembly. 
 He has spoke of the matter today. If Gen. Webb is of a 
 different opinion, Mr. Wickham would be glad to see him 
 on the subject. 
 
 [NEW YORK, February, 1786.] 
 
 AN INVITATION. 1 
 
 Messrs. Kean, Lee and Hindman 2 present their Compli 
 ments to Genl. Webb, and will do themselves the Honor 
 of waiting upon him at Dinner tomorrow. 
 
 [March 3d, 1786] 
 
 1 See a volume of invitations printed as Some Social Notes ad 
 dressed to Samuel Blachley Webb, 1776-1791. 
 
 2 Members of Congress. 
 
284 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM NATHANIEL SHALER. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 As the weather is, and as things now stand, is it intended 
 to go to the Island this day? If so what hour are we to 
 assemble for the purpose? Your not sending for the 
 Trunk makes me conclude you intend to do without it. 
 
 If you see D - before me, kiss her hand for (but noth 
 ing further). Your old friend, 
 
 N. SHALER. 
 
 Friday Mng 10 o clock 
 
 [NEW YORK, March, 1786.] 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, I2th March, 1786. 
 Dear B[rother]: 
 
 What can be the reason of your long silence? I have 
 been extremely anxious to hear from you ever since the 
 last letter, which gave me information that there was a 
 prospect that all kinds of Public securities must fall; nor 
 do I know whether you have received the Notes I for 
 warded you. For should they not have answered at that 
 time with you, they would have fetch d 3/ immediately in 
 Boston, tho I am confident that you will do everything 
 that ought to be done. I am the more anxious on the 
 Acct. of drawing on you, for should they not be sold it 
 might put you to some inconvenience. I have been able 
 to put off some of the people for ten days longer, but at the 
 end of that time they must be paid. I almost begin to 
 think that my evil genius is determined that I shall not be 
 prosper d in any of my conserns. I intend trying to send 
 you and my friend N. Shaler a salmon by the next stage. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 285 
 
 You see that the farest prospects are sometimes blasted. 
 I had promised myself from our late plan some success, 
 but its like many other promises I have made. 
 
 Never was there a person so completely unhappy in their 
 situation as I am in mine neither Business, Pleasure, no 
 any one person that I may make myself happy by convers 
 ing for an hour. This join d with my stock of paciences, 
 and my natural happy and contented turn of mind join d 
 all together, make me completely happy, as you would 
 judge should you see me. I have just heard from Boston 
 that commutation is upon the rise, that they are selling 
 from 3 / to 3/6. I think there ought some mony to be 
 immediately sent me. I am sorry that I did not send 
 them to Boston, tho I am convinc d that they must rise. 
 I could have purchased them at 2/2 since the news from 
 New York. Our friend Colo. Platt I am shure will do 
 everything that is cleaver. He may depend that I will do 
 the Business as much to his and your Satisfaction as in my 
 power. I have heard that Major Warner sold the rest of 
 his yesterday for 2/9. Do my good Brother be very 
 particular in writing me by every conveyance that will not 
 cost too much. 
 
 March i8th. 
 
 I received your letter by our friend D. Wadsworth, and 
 the small supply of mony; tho small, it came very accept 
 able. I am confident that the commutation must rise, as 
 it has of late taken a rise in Boston. 1 I wish you in your 
 
 1 At this time there was much speculation in the various forms of 
 notes, bills and promises, which had been issued by the Continent and 
 States during the war, for the payment of the troops and purchase of 
 supplies. Fortunes were made and lost, and the many forms of paper 
 gave every opportunity for taking chances. 
 
286 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 answers be more particular, tho I think I have said every 
 thing in my power on this subject. You must tell our 
 friend Platt that at the time I purchased those Notes that 
 Brunson, Fowler, Pomeroy, Buttler and many others, were 
 biding on each other; but that if he enters into any con 
 tract, he may depend on my doing everything in my power 
 for our mutual interests. I sent Peter to Windsor on 
 Saturday, but was not able to get a salmon; but the first I 
 can, shall be sent to you and my good friend N. S[haler]. 
 I am a little surprised that he has not wrote me a line since 
 I left New York. 
 
 You have never acknowled d the receipt of all the Notes 
 sent you. I sent by Mr. D. Hinsdale 482 20/90, by Mr. 
 Grant 543 66/90, by Post 1264 72/90, by young Mr. Belden 
 114 Dollars. I think before this they must have taken a 
 rise. Do push to send me some mony. I find that Miss 
 Denning has wrote our neighbors that Miss Alsop is to be 
 married to King, 1 the member of Congress, in six weeks. 
 Women s truths. I wish you could find a few hours to 
 sacrafice to your friend and Brother. If you lay out eight 
 een or twenty Dollars for a pr. Ladies stone shoe Buckles, 
 you can send them by Capt. John Wright. You must pay 
 yourself for the trouble to purchase them. Its very extraor 
 dinary that our friend James 2 does not pay that Acct. 
 I wish you to push him; also to push Thompson. You 
 say nothing respecting the public matters left in your 
 hands. It s given great pleasure to all the Gentlemen in 
 this state that the matter of Paper mony is fallen through. 
 
 1 Rufus King, who married, March 31, 1786, Mary, only daughter 
 of John Alsop. An account of the wedding is in Life and Correspond 
 ence of Rufus King, I, 130 n. 
 
 2 Seagrove. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 287 
 
 I can turn your Certificates into something should you 
 send them me, tho they are from 9/ to io/. I can turn 
 them better than that for you. You may depend that 
 you had not better keep them for any length of time. 
 You had better send them me with your Notes from this 
 State by Wright. Perhaps it will be agreeable to Jemmy 
 to send me one Hhd. loaf sugar, one-half of single Refined 
 and the other double. It must not be shipt as loaf sugar. 
 My Br[other], and Sister W[ebb] are very unwell and con- 
 find to their Rooms. They desire their love to you and 
 Aunt P[olly.] I join and say may every happiness be your 
 lott. 
 
 J. W. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Wensday Evening, 29th March, 1786. 
 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 You cannot imagine to what trouble I been put to by 
 your not sending me the mony. This day I had to borrow 
 fifty pounds to pay the drafts which were out. Nor must 
 you think odd of my repeating so frequently that I can do 
 nothing accept I have the mony. I could this day have 
 taken one thousand Dollars had I cash; but there are now 
 twenty agents purchasing them here, some from Boston, 
 Rode Island and New York. I have been ever since 
 Monday to Coalchester, and for the want of cash have 
 only purchased three hundred forty-three and one-half 
 dollars, which has taken all the mony I had and that I could 
 borrow. I am afraid that it will [be] no object for three. 
 At present it is not I am shure, for one-third of the profits 
 of my last purchase will not pay my expence. They come 
 
288 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 at 2/6 on the pound, tho I have lain a plan to purchase a 
 quantity more should the mony come on in season. You 
 will receive this by a very honest fellow by name Willard, 
 who ses that he will deliver it with his own hands. 
 
 You no that everything depends on a young fellow s 
 first setting out in Business, that he is very punctual in 
 keeping his word. Do ennable me to do that. I am so 
 exceedingly fatigu d that I am not able to send to Hart 
 ford to know whether I have any letters from you by this 
 stage. I wish you to ask the Post Master Genl. 1 in New 
 York to put your letters into the Midleton packet, as 
 there Mr. Hobby is always polite enough to forward them 
 to me, which makes me able to answer your letters by the 
 return of stage that brings them, and saves the trouble of 
 sending to Hartford. Should you have it in your power to 
 answer my long scrawls particularly, you will oblige me 
 by doing it. If you can purchase those Buckles for Chester 
 and send them by the bearer, I can receive the mony here. 
 I think if you will examine at what price this State mony is 
 to be purchased at, and the other kinds of securities, we 
 can make something of consiquence to us. 
 
 Do you intend to Petition the Genl. Assembly in May 
 respecting our Estate. If so, there ought something to be 
 done immediately. Remember me to all our Circle of 
 friends. If your matters will permit you to execute the 
 little commission I have requested, you will render me 
 great service. The Family are much better in health than 
 when I last wrote. I am with unalterable Esteem and 
 Affection yours, 
 
 JOHN W. 
 
 1 Ebenezer Hazard, who held the office from 1782 to 1789. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 289 
 
 P. S. I am told that they are at a loss to find some 
 Lady to say once more that you are attentive too. May 
 every happiness attend you. Tell friend Morris God bless 
 him, and that I hope he has secure d the old Lady well 
 under ground. 1 
 
 Addressed: General Saml. B. Webb, att No. 24 little Queen Street, 
 New York. Favor d by Mr. Willard, who is desired to deliver it 
 himself. 
 
 FROM RICHARD PLATT. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I send by Bearer One Hundred Dollars. Next week I 
 hope to be strong in Cash; and if so will advance freely. 
 Pray tell Brother Jack to seize all the Finals he possibly 
 can from 2/4 to 2/6 and 2/7. I think they will rise in a few 
 days considerably. 
 
 Yours, &c. 
 
 RICHARD PLATT. 
 April 8th [1786]. 10 A. M. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 9th April, 1786. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I received your short letter dated at Mr. Alsop s the 
 last evening, and am happy to find that you enjoy yourself 
 so well. This match to me seems if it was soon hatch d, 
 for if I mistake not, Mr. King did not visit there while I 
 
 1 The reference is not clear. The mother of Gouverneur Morris, 
 Sarah, had died late in 1785 or in January, 1786; but the relations 
 between the Webbs and that family were not close. Perhaps Robert 
 Morris is intended. 
 
290 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 was in the City. I sincerely wish it may be a happy one, 
 particularly on the account of our most worthy Friend, 
 the father of the Lady, who is deserving of all the good 
 that man can enjoy here or hereafter. I am inform d that 
 they intend paying Boston a visit, and soon. I find that 
 the female who came out of town with [me] is not a little 
 disappointed at this connection, tho I think the reasons 
 are obvious. Perhaps a little self interest may be at the 
 bottom of this. I have not a doubt but the friends had 
 promis d that they should be gratified in seeing her con 
 nected with a certain person at the Bank. I find that the 
 part that our worthy little friend Abby took did not please 
 the persons here, nor that in Wall street; tho I am very 
 happy that their expectations have been Blasted, and that 
 our friend has shone her self a person of judgment by her 
 Choice. My particular Compliments to the Circle at the 
 Wedder house, and to all that think proper to enquire 
 after me. 
 
 I was a little anxious about the letter that you mention 
 of receiving. I am at present prevented from purchasing 
 for the want of Cash. For the last I sent you I got the 
 mony from my friend Mr. Daniel Smith, in whose favor 
 I have drawn on you for Fifty pounds Lawfull mony, and 
 should he want more I wish you to advance him, as there 
 is no person in this country who is more punctual. He 
 has been extremely civil to me. I din d with him yester 
 day. Miss Clary Alsop is now at his house, and has been 
 for this six weeks. 
 
 I drew on you in favor of Ezekiel P. Belden * for a small 
 sum, which I hope was answer d on sight. No person will 
 
 1 Of Wethersfield. He had been a captain in Sheldon s Light Dra 
 goons, resigning from the service in June, 1780. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 be more attentive than myself to our Business, but only 
 put the means in my hands. Indeed I have been oblig d 
 to give a little extra on the Acct. of not having Cash. 
 When your hurry of Business is over I wish you to cast 
 your eye over my letters, and that you would answer those 
 parts you shall think necessary. Genl. Person made his 
 appearance at Hartford yesterday. Pomeroy ses that 
 Congress will have some important offices to give soon for 
 the Western country. I hope you may not be neglected; 
 for should you have an appointment I hope I shall not be 
 forgot, for it s a matter of indifference to what country I 
 go. I shall be hourly expecting a long scrawl and the 
 particulars of your friend s late connection. I am anxious 
 to hear how long after I left Town the visits began. I shall 
 send you a salmon for you and our friends. Our Friend 
 Shaler must share it with you. I wish it had been in my 
 power to have sent one before, but you must not think it 
 has been through a mistake. Do, my good Brother, write 
 Silas Deane respecting our Estate. It s a matter you ought 
 to pay attention to for all anything else by doing it you 
 will much oblige me. I have wrote you so much that 
 I think it s unnecessary for me to add anything more. I 
 only request you if Inclination or Business will admit, I 
 wish you to answer my scrawls. Believe me to be with 
 immense affection your brother, 
 
 JNO. WEBB. 
 
 P. S. My brother sends one of those Salmon and re 
 quests you to divide it between Garry Beekman, and Mr. 
 Sherbrook, and Charles McEvers. 1 [Seal] must have one 
 
 1 Two brothers, James and Charles McEvers, were in business in 
 New York before the Revolution as importers of European and India 
 
292 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 half. The other my friend Shaler must share with you. 
 The water being very high has prevented them from taking 
 any lately --till this few days. Friend Shaw must send 
 me a Pointer. I think Mrs. Sherbrook had better loan me 
 one of hers. 
 
 Addressed: Genl. Saml. B. Webb, att No. 24 little Queen Street, 
 New York. Honor d by Mr. Daniel Smith. 
 
 To SAMUEL HoLTON. 1 
 
 NEW YORK, Wednesday, 3 o clock. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Being in company with Mr. Reed 2 of South Carolina, 
 yesterday afternoon, he mentioned an appointment which 
 Congress had to make of a person to preside over a part of 
 the Western Territory, His sentiments respecting it in 
 duced me to show a desire to be noticed. He told me he 
 was happy in saying that if it would be agreeable to me he 
 would put me on the nomination, and exert his every in 
 fluence to serve me, to which I assented. Whether he 
 had done it or not I am unable to say. I have this fore- 
 goods, and with a store on Hanover Street. .On the death of James in 
 1768, his brother Charles succeeded to the business. The country 
 seat of James was at Bloomingdale (Ninety-third Street and Columbus 
 Avenue), and had been purchased of his brother-in-law Charles Ward 
 Apthorpe. The Charles McEvers mentioned in the text may have 
 been this elder Charles, or the son of James. A Charles McEvers mar 
 ried a daughter of Simon Johnson, and thus became connected with 
 the Livingstons, Van Homes, Beekmans and Neilson names fre 
 quently found in this Webb correspondence. 
 
 1 Member of Congress from Massachusetts. 
 
 2 Jacob Read, also of the Congress. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 293 
 
 noon been at the door of Congress to see you on the subject. 
 Your being in the chair prevented. I will take the earliest 
 opportunity of waiting on you. In the interim permit me, 
 Dear Sir, to solicit your Friendship and influence, and if I 
 am not already named that you will do it. Excuse the 
 liberty I take, and believe me with sincerity, Your very 
 Obliged Servt, 
 
 SAML. B. WEBB. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD I2th April, 1786. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 George the stage driver has just handed me your letter. 
 I can say no more on the head of purchasing than I have 
 already. I can only say its differ d us as much as one 
 hundred pounds within this two days, my not having Cash 
 on hand. I have purchased upwards of four hundred 
 dollars, for which I borrow d mony and gave my Note of 
 hand on Interest. I shall make no charge of my trouble 
 but shall leave it to you and friend Platt to say what it is 
 worth. There was a Mr. Firman who took seven thousand 
 dollars of commutation out of my hand, only on the Acct. 
 of my Cash being out. He gave 2/6. I am in hopes that 
 Belden will bring me as much as five hundred dollars. 
 
 I have two stages purchas d, and put up as much as two 
 Salmon, and on the Acct. of the stage being full I have not 
 been able to forward them. If you can purchase Connecti 
 cut State Notes for 4/6 to 4/9 on the pound, they will net 
 us a handsome profit. The last Connecticut money will 
 answer at a Dollar; tho by the Monday stage you shall 
 have more particularly. Do push every point or nerve 
 
294 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 to send me a Sum of mony. I will try to take up some 
 mony, tho I have very little prospect I must confess. I 
 will once more go to Hartford in the morning. When I 
 say Connecticut Notes I mean those given the soldiers of 
 our line. You must, if in your power, answer my letter 
 more particularly. I shall send this by George the stage 
 driver as far as Middletown, who puts it in the office with 
 the inclos d Notes. I shall be happy to do anything in my 
 power to forward our Business, but, but, but! The want 
 of Cash must prevent my doing anything more. I must 
 bid adieu, and may the best of Heavens Blessings attend 
 you is the desire of your friend and Brother, 
 
 JNO. W. 
 
 Please to remember me and the Family Affectionately 
 to Aunt P[olly]. Will not our friend James pay that 
 Acct? What makes me repeat this is that we are in want 
 of all the Cash we can muster. 
 
 No. 34,595 payable to Daniel Galpen for 120 Dollrs 
 
 34,596 ditto to ditto ditto do 88 9 8 Q- 
 
 35,230 ditto to ditto ditto do 80 
 
 41,129 ditto to Wm. Bacon do 80 
 
 51,600 ditto to Wm. Bacon do 13 -{} 
 
 35,220 ditto to Bordman Davis do 80 
 
 4 6i||- Dollrs 
 Those cost me 2/6 on the pound. 
 
 Addressed: Genl. Saml. B. Webb, Att No. 24 little Queen Street, 
 New York. With a protested Bill Inclos d. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 295 
 
 FROM RICHARD PLATT. 
 Dr Sir: 
 
 Continue to advise Brother Jack to purchase all the 
 Finals he can at 2/6 and under. 
 
 The Bearer has a check for One Hundred and Seventy 
 Dollars. 
 
 Yours &c. 
 
 RICHD PLATT. 
 
 1 4th April, 1786. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, I9th April, 1786. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I have just received your letter of the i6th instant. Its 
 the first that I knew Wadsworth would take up my drafts. 
 I thought that I was not to apply to him till you wrote me 
 again. As for selling my drafts, it s a thing almost im 
 possible. If I had mony, there has been great sums sold. 
 I am shure it has been in your power to have sent me some 
 mony by Capt. Belden, Mr. Smith, or David Bull. The 
 draft I drew in favor of Mr. Smith was not paid me all, but 
 since his return. Nor is any one willing to advance mony 
 on drafts, they have been so frequently disappointed by 
 their not being paid. Belden took two or three drafts, 
 and mine was the only one paid. Those people who have 
 the final settlements to sell will not part with them without 
 cash in hand; and the fact is that there are but very few 
 people that are willing to take drafts on New York without 
 you give them one month to pay for them after they re 
 turn. I will only mention the people that are now at 
 
296 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Hartford purchasing them up: Capt. Fowler, Mr. Pomeroy, 
 Mr. Buller, Mr. Brunson, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Babcock, and 
 many others, who have the mony on hand. I was there 
 yesterday when Major Scott 1 offer d me a large sum, and 
 I went to every person almost there that was in Business; 
 but they all had some excuse for not advancing the mony, 
 and I had the mortification to see another person purchase 
 them. I suppose it would have been in my power to have 
 borrow d the mony, but that I did not choose to do, as I 
 am two much involv d already. I am to have an answer 
 from a man whether he will lett me have two thousand 
 Dollars. I shall not be able to send you any this stage, 
 neither can I send you or our worthy friend Shaler a salmon 
 this stage, as its past today and no fishing. The only 
 reason why I did not send you one the last stage was that 
 there has two vessels gone from here within this ten days 
 with a very large quantity for New York. I have been 
 anxiously expecting a very long letter from you, giving me 
 a particular acct. of the wedding. Your last letter to me 
 was dated the 8th instant, when you say you will write 
 me by the Thursday stage, and then give me orders on 
 Wadsworth. If you wrote any such letter I have never 
 received it. I will go and see our friend Wadsworth in 
 the morning, and will write you very particularly by the 
 Monday Post. I sent you on Monday a Note for Eighty 
 odd Dollars. You mention that you have sent me your 
 Interest Certificates. I have not received them, but Mr. 
 D[aniel] Smith sent me word that he had left in his trunk 
 at New Haven a letter from you, and that there were some 
 
 1 Ezekiel Scott, who was admitted to the Cincinnati as a major, 
 but he had not attained rank in service. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 2Q7 
 
 papers inclos d for me. You must not think I would by 
 any means neglect you or the Business we are engag d in; 
 but if you will only recollect how different it is to [do] 
 Business here from N. York, you will not blame me for 
 mentioning some subjects so often. I had rather do Busi 
 ness in N. York to the amount of two thousand pounds, 
 than to do as many hundreds here. They are very much 
 afraid to give mony and receive drafts. They are a little 
 like paper currency. I am afraid that the person who 
 bought your mills will take the advantage of the paper 
 currency and pay you off. I have not the greatest opinion 
 in the world of his honesty. Please to remember me affec 
 tionately to all our Circle of Friends. Capt. Wait Good 
 rich, the bearer, requests your influence with Colo. [Robert] 
 Troop, as he wants his assistance in the law. I have wrote 
 this in a very great hurry and must request you to make the 
 apology that s necessary. Capt. Wait Goodrich has just 
 calPd and ses he will deliver this with his own hands. He 
 is a very worthy cleaver fellow, tho an unfortunate one. 
 By him I shall send you two commutation Notes amount 
 ing to one hundred twenty-three -$ @ 2/6. I also shall 
 draw on you in favor of Capt. W. Goodrich for nine pounds 
 thirteen shillings and seven pence, lawfull mony of Con 
 necticut, payable on sight. I hope on Monday to forward 
 the amount that our friend Shaler wants, tho on Friday I 
 must once more visit our place at Coalchester. I have 
 been purchasing me a House, Barn, and a Farm of seventy- 
 four acres [of] Land, as a retreat in case I get any more out 
 of the World. For I think Coalchester to be as good a re 
 treat as any I can find. Say God Bless our worthy Friends 
 Joy, and Bailey, and families, who I wish sincerely to see 
 with Aunt Pfolly]. What has become of the worthy Miss 
 
298 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 L[ivingston], niece to Mrs. Jay. 1 I want exceedingly to 
 see our friends. If this Business is like to answer, do push 
 every nerve to send me a sum of mony. Connecticut 
 State Notes to the Line of the Army out in 1782, 83 and 
 84, are worth 7/6 to 8/. Those out in 1785 and so on to 
 1789 are at 5/ in the pound. Connecticut State mony 
 from 7/ to 7/6 on the pound. I wish you to sell that 
 fowling piece of mine with you, and collect those small 
 Debts, for the larger the Capital the more profits to us. 
 Finals are now at 3/ in Boston. Should you have pur- 
 chas d the Buckles for our friend Chester be good enough 
 to send them. Where is Shaw? He promis d he would 
 send me a pointer. I wish you only to mention [it] to 
 Philip, and he will soon put one on board of a vessel for 
 me. It will be an amusement to you when you come into 
 the country, and it will be of great service to your Brother. 
 I think you have a field Bed that you do not make use of. 
 If so and you will sell it me, I will give you the value of it. 
 How does Mr. and Mrs. King go to Boston. Please to 
 present my particular Compliments to them and the 
 family. Should Horace 2 want any small sum of mony I 
 wish you to advance it him. I must request you to make 
 an apology for this scrawl, as the room has been full of 
 company the whole evening. 
 
 Addressed: Gen l Samuel B. Webb, at No. 24 little Queen Street, 
 New York. Honor d by Capt. Wait Goodrich. 
 
 1 Mrs. John Jay was Sarah Van Brugh Livingston, daughter of 
 Gov. William Livingston of New Jersey. Her brother Henry Brock- 
 hoist Livingston was prominent in New York. 
 
 2 Horace Johnson. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 2Q9 
 
 FROM RICHARD PLATT. 
 
 April 22nd, 1786. 
 Dr. Sir: 
 
 I send you a Rect. for the Finals. I am sorry I cannot 
 send you the two checks you wish. I send you one, and 
 as soon as either Lee l or Hillegas 2 will pay any money, I 
 shall be strong, but not before. Today I am obliged to 
 send Sumner a large sum of money by vessel going to 
 Georgia. I am obliged to advance it, or he must go with 
 out. I have his warrant for a Qrs Salary, but it is only 
 paper, and Sumner wants hard money. I will send you 
 tomorrow a list of New York Finals. I thank you for your 
 information. Yours &c., 
 
 RICHARD PLATT. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 26th April, 1786. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I arrived here last evening, having been at Coalchester 
 all the last week; and on my return found your letter 
 dated the iQth March. Where it has been, God only 
 knows. I am sorry that you have admitted our friend 
 Platt, tho perhaps you had not a capital sufficient. If you 
 had, you have given something that would have been an 
 object to us. I am this day offer d a large sum of commu 
 tation Notes at 2/6, but the want of Cash prevents me 
 from purchasing. You wrote me that Wadsworth would 
 take up my Bills, but he ses that it is not in his power. If 
 he had done what you told me, I should have been able to 
 
 1 Probably Arthur Lee, one of the Continental Board of Treasury. 
 
 2 Michael Hillegas, treasurer of the United States. 
 
300 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 have sent you some thousand Dollars by the bearer, Mrs. 
 [Amos] Bull. I am much disappointed by your seeming 
 neglect. Why, my good friend, have you not sent me the 
 mony you have had of mine in your hands ? Had you only 
 sent that I could have turn d it to our mutual advantage. 
 You say that you have sold those I have forwarded to a 
 profit. If so or not, you have a considerable ballance now 
 due on those in your hands. You must no that every 
 thing depends on the speedy returns to make any consid 
 erable profit on those matters. I shall always think my 
 self extremely happy to be doing you any service. I am 
 shure you must be convinced of that. I am not asking you 
 for the ballance on our private Acct., only to request you 
 to forward the monies due me on the sales of those I have 
 sent you. I must repeat that nothing can be done with 
 out there is a considerable Cash sent me. These are 
 selling at Boston for 3/, and are upon the rise. If there is 
 anything to be done, it must soon; and if the one article 
 comes that is needful, perhaps I can do something to profit. 
 Mr. Daniel Smith has this day sent me your certificates. 
 Had he have sent them before I could have sold them, but 
 I shall do the best I can. Are you willing to part with 
 your Interest Certificates at io/ on the pound in Cash, or 
 to take 13/4 in men s Notes that are payable in the Fall in 
 produce? Your answer if you please. Please to present 
 my love to Aunt Pfolly], and my Compliments to our 
 Circle of friends. Why, my Br., has not Colo. Obel and 
 our friend James sent me the ballance of their Accts? I 
 wish the matter of Thompson s might be put immediately 
 in suit. The latter I thought would have been glad to 
 have sent me the ballance in loaf sugar. The family are 
 well and request to be remembered to you and Aunt P[olly]. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 30! 
 
 I find that Wm Denning l has wrote a very impolite letter 
 to Jo, who owes him [seal] ballance. He feels his conse 
 quence. I would have you do what is most convenient 
 respecting the buckles. I requested Horace to purchase a 
 few small articles, which if he has, I wish him to send by the 
 bearer. How is Miss Lesser? God bless her. Have you 
 ever thought to ask Miss C. Kyler [Cuyler] 2 for the Books 
 I lent her and Miss White of N. Shalers ? For in my Acct. 
 he has charged them. May every wish and desire of yours 
 be justified is the sincere wish of yours Affectionately, 
 
 JNO. W. 
 
 Addressed: Gen l Samuel B. Webb, att No 24 little Queen Street, 
 New York. Honor d by Mrs. Bull. 
 
 FROM ROBERT MORRIS, JUNIOR. 
 
 WEST CHESTER, May I5th, 1786. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 Your attentive letter to my happiness was last eavening 
 handed me by pappa, and receive my warmest thanks for 
 your uniform conduct through the period of our acquaint 
 ance, however warm yet me thinks mutually sincear, and 
 this your letter is not one of the smallest marks of your 
 concern for me and mine. This old Goshonite must have 
 made no small stur among my Relations in Town, very 
 laughable for you a silent spectator of their conduct. 
 Mother must have sniggered a little if acredited by her. 
 Make notes, Webb, for I am sure no memory can contain 
 
 1 A member of the Committee of Correspondence in 1774, and an 
 assemblyman after the peace. 
 
 2 Probably Catharine, daughter of Henry Cuyler. 
 
3O2 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 all. I am up to my - - in business, and scarcely time to 
 write my friends. I am sorry to inform you that Old 
 Black is infinitely worse than any 4-footed beast I have 
 yet come acrossed. He makes nothing visiting his neigh 
 bors three miles an eand [end] to test their Rhy. My hay 
 I have got for him is very bad. I am necessitated to turn 
 him out in the day time. I have at length procured an 
 easy pair of iron hopples which keep him very quiet, and 
 I am in hopes he will soon thrive. There is a man that 
 would wish to purchase him, if for sale. Let me know 
 your lowest price. 
 
 My respects to my friends, Mrs. King &c., and believe 
 me Sincerely yours, 
 
 ROBT. MORRIS, JUNIOR. 
 
 You may see my writing is not the better for work. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM WICKHAM. 
 
 GOSHEN, Thursday Evening, May I7th, 86. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 A continued storm ever since my arrival has prevented 
 my going out. The Cash is ready for me. A good person 
 will set out for New York on Friday or Saturday who I 
 shall entrust with the money. However, Sir, should he 
 not be in time, I beg you ll not put yourself to the least 
 inconvenience, but procure the money with the Certificates. 
 I am not certain by what conveyance this will go, but I 
 expect a Lad will set out tomorrow for New York to whose 
 care this will be sent in the morning. 
 
 I think you told me the Cash was to be paid on Saturday. 
 Had it not been for this Storm I could have sent the money 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 303 
 
 by Friday. It will undoubtedly be in New York on Satur 
 day or Sunday morning at farthest. 
 
 I am, Sir, with much Regard Your most obt. Hum. 
 Servt., 
 
 WM. WICKHAM. 
 
 Addressed: General Webb, Broadway No. 25, New York. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Yours of the i6th I have this moment received. I am 
 surprised what busy medling rascals have been endeavoring 
 my hurt. For your satisfaction I may venture to say I 
 think my self not in their power more than I can get rid 
 of. If any of my Creditors will take Lands or Notes, and 
 those that may be good, I will pay them off in 24 hours. 
 Security I will give no man; pay them as above I am ready. 
 I am fifteen years older than I was at the close of the War 
 by my attention to secure our outstanding Debts. I have 
 gone thro much fatigue, trouble, vexation, anxiety, both 
 by Day and Night, taking Notes, Securities and settle 
 ments. I have been as fortunate as my Neighbors, but 
 payment I have not been able to get. However I trust a 
 pay day will come, and my Object will be to pay off my 
 debts. Brother Jack is gone to Salisbury to see about our 
 affairs there. Brother Jack will be at home on Saturday, 
 I believe. I wish my Business would permit my coming 
 to York. I could give them the fullest and most ample 
 satisfaction of my conduct, such as would please. I will 
 endeavor if possible to come to York. Ask my friend Mr. 
 Vanhorn the particulars and the informants. Its a piece 
 of friendship I ought to be indulged in. I will write him 
 
304 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 myself soon, by this opportunity its impossible. I wish 
 you would do the needful to set matters right. I am, 
 Dear Brother, with Compliments to our friendly Circle, 
 Yr. Most afft Br., 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 Thursday Evening, n o Clock. 
 1 8th May, 1786. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, New York. Per Mr. Stew 
 art. Endorsed: Received and forwarded by J. B. Cutting. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 Secret for your self. 
 Dr. B[rother]: 
 
 I have wrote you by this Opportunity in answer to yours 
 of the 1 6th, which you may make what use of it you please. 
 It fills me with anxiety. But D m them, who can be the 
 Busy ones? I suspect George S - Jere W[adsworth]. 
 Nathl. Sh[aler]. Depend on it some one of these Characters 
 have been at least unguarded. They are friends and no 
 friends. I wish more to see you than ever. It looks 
 against me that I have not been at York; but to be honest 
 a letter from Jack while he was in York advised me not 
 come, prevented me being there according to my writing 
 you, Burr, and others. I believe he thought he did right, 
 but I believe it was unfortunate. Let me beg you not to 
 mention my suspicions even in your most friendly un 
 guarded moments. Search and find out by some way or 
 other, but take care; be prudent, be cautious, be thought 
 ful. Hear much, say little. Write me freely. We have 
 all enemies I assure you, and depend upon it where you do 
 not at present believe. Some say this of you, some say 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 305 
 
 this and that of me, this and that of Jack and others. We 
 have plenty of good friends the backward way. Some 
 can t bear to see our family on so respectable footing, and 
 others a variety of infamous causes to say against one or 
 the other what they can. Ill report ketches fast. You 
 must know I have for a long time been jealous of some of 
 the above Characters. Perhaps I may add T[homas] Sey 
 mour. In short I might add others, but I suppose by 
 what Brother Jack says you will be coming this way, when 
 I shall be happy to unfold a Budget. I fear to trust too 
 much to paper. Yet the mail is quite safe; but the diffi 
 culty is I trust my letters by the stage to Mid[dle]t[own], 
 then to be put in the mail. However I will write without 
 reserve to you, as I know of no letters miscarrying as yet. 
 I owed principal on Books to D[aniel] Phenix abt. 250 
 York. He put it in the hands of one Mr. Ingraham of 
 Midt., and several letters passed and repassed, quite gen 
 teel and in friendship, between Ingraham and myself, 
 Phenix and myself. Nothing quite settled. At last 
 Phenix wrote a sevear letter, and gave positive orders if I 
 would not pay it, secure it by Notes, or some way, to 
 attach and put it in to an Attorney s hand. They put it 
 in Asher Miller s. He wrote me; so did Ingraham. I 
 comply d on giving other peoples Note, and if he collects 
 them I have nothing to do with D. P. He lies at my mercy 
 about the Interest. He s behaved so as to justify my not 
 allowing him a farthing interest. I dispise him. E. 
 Miller is the only one I owe on Note in York. As to Den 
 ning, I owe him for wine taken in 1776 96 York not a 
 farthing more. I wish to know without you saying a word 
 to him what mony you deliv d him on my Acct., and how 
 you settled. Write me by the Return of this stage. Its 
 
306 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 too late to add. Your Enemies say you attach yourself to 
 cards, Neglect Business. I suppose it springs from the 
 deviltry of our Enemies, and without the least foundation. 
 Write me freely by the next. I will endeavor to write you 
 so as you may read. Its exceeding late; the stage goes 
 off at 5 o clock in the morning. 
 
 Write me what McEvers says. Jemmy promised [to 
 aid] me. He pretended much friendship. I fear its only 
 pretention, yet I may injure him. He appears a good 
 young man, but then [seal] Seymour. Adieu, Adieu. 
 
 When will you be here? 
 
 1 8th May, 1786. 
 
 Addressed: General Sam. B. Webb, New York. Per Mr. Stewart. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I wrote you by the last stage but I hardly know what I 
 wrote. It was late in the evening, my mind rather dis- 
 compos d. I was vext, and hardly knew who at. I rather 
 suspect D[aniel\ Phenix. I expected a letter from you 
 by the last post, but when I consider the rapid returns of 
 the stage I have not much to say. I hope however that 
 the very hour you receive this I shall receive one from you 
 in full answer of my jumbled confused letter. Do you ad 
 vise me to come to [New] York? Write me as freely and 
 fully as you please. I confess to you I think I ought to 
 come; nothing is so agreeable to a Creditor as seeing his 
 Debtor often, Except paying. I trust before this you have 
 found out what Vanhorn alluded to. Get from him all 
 the particulars. How is Jemmy McEvers since his return 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 307 
 
 from Connecticut? How is Charles McEvers? How is 
 Shayler? Jacob Le Roy and his son 1 din d with me this 
 day; has just gone back to drink Tea with Thos. Seymour. 
 I wish as little as possible may be said about McE - s 
 attaching S. D[eane] s property, as the consequence will be 
 a series of Enquiry from all S. D. s creditors, and cause 
 much trouble. The least said is best. When will you 
 come and chat over all these matters? I am, dear Brother, 
 Yrs Sincerely, J. WEBB. 
 
 May 21 st, 1786. 
 
 Jemmy McEvers has a pair of Sturrups I suffer much 
 for. I cant think there is about 300 York due from S. D. 
 to J. McE. Will it do for you to find out? Mrs. W[ebb] 
 says you must bring Miss Duyckinck with you. 
 
 I have a great mind to come to York, but shall wait for 
 your Answer. Or perhaps I had better wait and return 
 with you. How can it possibly be workt for me to have a 
 vessel to go to the Havana for Hides? It is a matter of 
 much Consequence. Between you and me if the Tan Works 
 were well filPd once with Hides, after that they would stock 
 themselves. Then would the family have a plan of prop 
 erty to apply to; it would be a body of reserve. Do you 
 suppose we can make Interest enough to have a small Sloop 
 run there in July with Onions, Garlic, and such a Cargo as 
 he may dictate. Mr. Le Roy thinks it can. He s deter 
 mined to assist you with his Influence. 
 
 1 Jacob Le Roy, Sr., died in 1792-93, leaving a curious will, as it 
 specially provided that: "I have directed a ticket to be purchased 
 for me in the Lottery of the States General of Holland, and one in the 
 State Lottery of England; my will is that in case the said tickets draw 
 a prize or prizes, that my wife Catharine shall have the one-sixth part, 
 etc." His will was witnessed by John Keese. 
 
308 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 3d June, 1786. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I this morning send by Mr. Horner your Watch and 
 Cane, to be deliver d to Genl. Persons. I also send you 
 a final Settlement Note for 80 Dollrs. @ 2/6, which I pur 
 chased on my return of Capt. [Ezekiel] P. Belden. You 
 must do everything to have matters prepar d by the time 
 I return from Boston, which will be week after next, some 
 time the latter end of the Week. Present my compli 
 ments to Colo. Platt, and tell him that everything in 
 my [power] I will do. You must remember me to the 
 Circle of our Friends. I have nothing worth communicat 
 ing, as you left this so late. I am with Esteem Yours 
 affectionately, 
 
 JNO. W. 
 
 P. S. You must send me mony on my Return. 
 
 WEBB. 
 
 I wish you to converse with persons respecting the 
 Western Lands. If you please ask Miss Cuyler for the 
 Plays lent her and Miss White. Col. White is indebted to 
 me 13/6. 
 
 Addressed: Gen l. Sam l B. Webb, New York. Honor d by Major 
 Gen. Parsons. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Not a line from you since you was here. Brother Jack 
 is not yet return d from Boston. Barrell writes me his 
 daughter Sally is very ill, and begs Jack would not as yet 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 309 
 
 come after Hetty. He says Geary owes him 2000 Ster 
 ling, begs me to secure him. I see there is a General Attach 
 ment gone out in York State. I suppose it would be well 
 for Barrell to lay in his claim in York, or can I attach 
 solely for Barrell if I find any debt in the State of New 
 York? Brother Jesse [Deane] has not been at the House 
 since the affair. I wish you could send me a copy of Silas 
 Deane s last letter. What shall I write him? I wish for 
 a long circumstantial letter from you. I wish Horace 
 would collect Iver s debt. Laboyteaux [will s]end it me in 
 tea. Mrs. W[ebb] says I must write you, we are quite 
 out [of sugars] of all kind. You will not let the Ladies 
 suffer. Pray send Aunt Polly. I am, Dear Brother, 
 Yours affectionately, 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
 [July], 1786. 
 
 In a confidential way I wish you would [with]out much 
 attention examine the say of the House of Effingham 
 Laurence in London. I fear all the American Houses will 
 fail. I shall [send] Gerry G. Beekman s shad by the first 
 vessel bound to York from Weth d. Have you thought 
 of my Payments from Brig Joe. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 4th July, 1786. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I received your line by the stage this evening, and am 
 not only sorry but disappointed that you cannot answer 
 my Bills to the amount I have purchased Notes. I had 
 drawn on you for fifteen pounds New York Currency in 
 
310 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 favor of Amos Bull, but in the morning shall some way 
 take up the draft. I expected when I began this Business 
 to have had at least the mony I advanced; but you have 
 your reasons I dare say, and I shall contrive some way to 
 settle my matters, and the day after tomorrow leave this 
 for Colchester. I shall be very happy to hear from you 
 when ever Business or Inclination will permit. If you 
 please you may send me your field Bedstead, with one pair 
 Blankets and two Pairs Sheets, and I will pay you the value 
 for them. If you send them I wish you to direct them to 
 me at Colchester, to the care of Wm. Winthrop at New 
 London. I will thank you if you will write me by the first 
 Post whether it will be convenient for you to supply me 
 with those articles. If not I will purchase them some 
 where else. Hetty desires her love to you and Aunt Polly; 
 every branch of the family desire the same. She is very 
 much disappointed at not meeting Aunt Polly. Should 
 you see our mutual and worthy friend Seagrove, I wish 
 you to make my Compliments to him, in which the family 
 join, and tell him that his gun shall be sent by the first safe 
 opportunity. I should have sent it before had there in 
 favorable opportunity offer d; its too valuable to send by 
 the stages. You may also mention that I have only made 
 use of it three times. All his friends wish and expect to 
 see him in this part of the World. I have requested my 
 Brother to let you know when Mr. Barrell comes on, tho 
 he propos d to be here for Hetty by the first of August. 
 You may judge he intends leaving Boston the Monday 
 after commencement, which is between the 19 and 24th 
 of July. Your letters after this week will come safe to me 
 by puting them in the New London Mail, directed to Mr. 
 Green, who will send them me by Mr. Night the Post 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 
 
 rider. You entirely forgot in your last to mention any 
 thing respecting our Business, whether paper had risen or 
 fallen. Please to remember me affectionately to all those 
 that enquire after me, and believe me to be with Sincere 
 Affection yours, 
 
 JOHN W. 
 
 Addressed: Gen l Sam l B. Webb, New York. Per Mr. John 
 Lockwood. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM LIVINGSTON, JUNIOR. 
 
 NEW YORK, loth July, 86. 
 Dr. Sir: 
 
 Mr. Abm. Ogden tells me that you are desirous to ad 
 minister upon an Estate in Jersey. As I shall be obliged 
 to leave Town to-morrow morning, I shall be glad to see 
 you upon the subject some time to day, for which purpose 
 I shall attend at Mr. R. Watt s this afternoon precisely 
 at five. Mr. Ogden who is willing to become your surety 
 being in Town, if the business can be done to day, it will 
 save you a jaunt into Jersey. 
 
 In Haste Your obedt Servt, 
 
 WM. LIVINGSTON, JuNR. 1 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 Sunday Evening, July 16, 1786. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Sister Hetty and all the family have just [been] wishing 
 Brother Sam was here to make up the Social Evening. 
 
 i With whom Webb fought a duel. 
 
312 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 They wish for Br. Jack. He s at Colchester. Why do 
 you not write? They all complain. I know the goodness 
 of your Heart, or I could not forgive you. I write, but 
 get no Answers. Stuben is with me every Sunday Morng. 
 He wishes to Christen his Child. He says you would 
 write Colo. Chester, or me, from the Baron. I send him 
 to Colo. Chester. Poor fellow thinks hard. Where is my 
 Tea? Where is my Acct of Molasses D D Dea[illegible] 1 
 others out of Brig Joseph? What says Seagrove to you? 
 Grant me a long circumstantial letter, and Believe me 
 your Afft. Br., 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 How did Nich Hoffman 2 and that Party like Connecti 
 cut? What say they? I am in distress for a Chaise. Do 
 call on Hallet this Port, and see before its done up, Amos 
 Bull s New Chaise and observe the faults, that I may 
 write you and mend. Would you get plated furniture? I 
 think not. Brass is easy kept clean. The Harness I can 
 get better here than in York. Let me beg you to go your 
 self and observe several Ice houses, and write me how to 
 Build one. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 24th August, 1786. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I arrived home last Evening very much fatigued, and 
 found the family all well. They were very happy to hear 
 
 " Delivered Deane." 
 
 2 Nicholas Hoffman represented New York City in the Assembly, 
 1788-89. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 313 
 
 that you was well, tho could have wish d that you had 
 meet with a different Character than Mr. Livingston], 1 
 as his fame has reach d the country, and the only observa 
 tion that I have meet with is that people in general think 
 it a matter to small to put up in computation. I am told 
 that the Printer at Middleton is printing the publication 
 of L . If so I shall have yours done. I cannot but 
 think that you had better let me speak with Wadsworth 
 respecting your matter in our friend Shaler s hands. I 
 think should you write him, it will prevent those from be 
 ing sold, and the scarcity of mony is such that you must 
 expect very little or nothing from this Quarter. Do, my 
 good Br., remember to forward the Note Mr. Barrell re 
 quested. Remember me to our most worthy friend Sea- 
 grove, and tell him I shall write him in a few days, and 
 that I am doing everything in my power to be ready by 
 the first of November. I wish you to remember me to 
 our worthy friend Horace, and request him to forward the 
 Shugar by the first opportunity. The family desire to be 
 remember d to you and Aunt Polly. Tell our friend Col. 
 Lee such has been the Demand Leather that it will not be 
 in my power to send him any till the latter end of Novem 
 ber, but I have requested Mr. Denny to reserve what he 
 requested. He has a Calf skin for yourself. I this after 
 noon have taken my Horse for our friend Col. Lee to see 
 what he could purchase 10,000 Dollars of Loan Office 
 Certificates for. I have applied to Capt. Fowler, who has 
 promis d to write him on the subject. He ses he can pur 
 chase them at 3/6 reduc d to specie value, tho I imagine 
 
 1 William Livingston, Jun. See Webb, Correspondence and Journals, 
 III, 64. 
 
314 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 that he will get him to deliver them at 3/4. I most sin 
 cerely thank Col. Lee for his offer to purchase Southern 
 Lands; without they lay in the State of Georgia I do not 
 [care to.] I will thank him for any letters he may give me 
 to his friends in Georgia. If I can do anything for you 
 here, I shall be very happy to serve you. Remember me 
 to all friends and believe me Affectionately yours, 
 
 JOHN WEBB. 
 
 FROM GEORGE D. WICKHAM. 
 
 GOSHEN, Monday, August 28th, 86. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have received your kind letter of the 26th Instant, and 
 am very much obliged to you for your friendly advice. 
 But I question if I shall have patience enough to follow it. 
 I conceve my Ancle is allmost well, for I am free from pain, 
 and all that detains me is the Swelling; but I am in hopes 
 that in a few days that difficulty will be removed, that I 
 shall be able to return with Papa. 
 
 Remember me to Philip, and tell him he must not neglect 
 my Yallow Birds And believe me to be your most sincere 
 friend, G. D. W. 
 
 Addressed: Gen l Webb, New York. Honour d by Mr. Gab l 
 Ludlum. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Br[other]: 
 
 The stage has just gone by, but I set down to write you 
 an Answer to your Letter to Brother Jack. I am anxious, 
 I am uneasy, and indeed Surprised. You must know on 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 315 
 
 the 2^th Instant I wrote Mr. [Ashur] Miller and enclosed 
 my Note according to his request. Not hearing from him 
 I was uneasy, and wrote him this Morning on the subject; 
 but I knew nothing of the failure. I have not time to give 
 a New Note and get Evidence, as its only J^ after 4 o clock 
 and the stage gone. I must send a Boy to Midn., if I cant 
 overtake the stage before. Shew this scrawl to Mr. 
 Miller, and assure him I delivd Brother Jack the Letter as 
 I was going a Journey to Litchfield on the 25th, with my 
 Note enclosed to John Alsop for the Sum he requested. I 
 am mortified of the failure [and] of its consequence. Its 
 a large Letter and may come to Life. Tell them that I 
 will execute a New Note by next stage. Its impossible 
 to do it in season for this. Do the needful. I can t add, 
 only that I am Sincerely, 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 Wednesday Morng 
 30th Aug., [1786.] 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 TV /r T^ -r* WETHERSFIELD, 3 1st August, 1786. 
 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I received your friendly but short letter a few days 
 since. I must say I think Livingston (divest him of his 
 connections) a poor reach one, who deserves pity rather 
 than contempt, tho you are the best judge what is wright. 
 I am unhappy to be oblig d to inform you that it is not in 
 my power to sell your certificates for J / on the pound. 
 There never was known so scarce a time for Cash. I have 
 been to Hartford, Middleton, Glastenbury, Eastbury, and 
 East Windsor, and find I can barter them away at eight 
 shillings tho you may depend I shall do everything in 
 
3l6 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 my power to render you all the service in my power, for I 
 can with truth say that it gives me pleasure to serve you. 
 I wish my abilities was equal to my Inclination. I am 
 sorry you have not thought of our Br. Barrell respecting 
 CampbeFs Note. I think he is in danger of loosing his 
 Debt. I hope I shall see you before I leave this. I am 
 proposing to be off by the 5th November. Make my re 
 spects to our friend S[eagrove], and request hirn to answer 
 my letter very particularly, as all our Carpenters and 
 Joiners are waiting for the Rect. of that letter so as they 
 may know what to depend on. You will make me happy 
 and the rest of your friends, if you will write me every 
 opportunity. Remember me to our mutual friend Asgill, 
 who we shall be very happy to see. I should write you 
 further on some Business, but knowing your present situa 
 tion I shall omit it. Believe me to be your Afft. Br., 
 
 JOHN W. 
 
 FROM MR. ANSTERS. 
 
 Mr. Ansters presents his Compts to Gen. Webb, takes 
 the liberty of acquainting him that since his return to his 
 office he finds some people who have been waiting to have 
 their Business transacted so as to admit of their leaving 
 N. York tonight, which unavoidably obliges Mr. Ansters 
 not to leave Town till late in the Evening. Will therefore 
 have the pleasure to accompany Genl. Webb in his Phaeton 
 to Greenwich some other opportunity. In the meantime 
 if to-morrow will be agreeable to the General, Mrs. Ansters 
 will [be] happy to see him to take a family dinner at 
 Greenwich. 
 
 Saturday noon, [September, 1786.] 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 317 
 
 FROM Miss CHARITY SMITH. 
 Sir: 
 
 I am prevented from going to Content this day by the 
 rain, and shall spend it with Mrs. Varick. As Colo. For- 
 rist has expressed a great wish to see me, I inform you of 
 my stay here, that he may not be under the necessity of 
 taking the ride out of Town, as you proposed the other 
 Evening. You must let me know what time you will come, 
 for I have several visits to pay. Pleas to send by the ser 
 vant those Pictures you promised and you l oblige your 
 friend, 
 
 C. SMITH. 
 
 Tuesday Morn. 8 o clock [September, 1786]. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 [WETHERSFIELD, September, 1786.] 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I [have] only one moment to write just to inform you 
 that the Familly are well, and that one and all request you 
 to be remember d to you and Aunt P[olly] ; And to request 
 you to call on our mutual and worthy friend Seagrove, and 
 request him to answer the letters I wrote him. Also to 
 request our friend Shaler to open those letters I have wrote 
 Horace Johnson, as they contain matters of consequence 
 to me. And if convenient to let James Sebor do the Busi 
 ness, as I am told Horrace is come from New York. Be 
 good enough to write me by the first opportunity, and be 
 lieve me to be affectionately yours, 
 
 JOHN WEBB. 
 
 Addressed: Gen l Sam l B. Webb, New York. Honor d by Sam l 
 Buck, Esq. 
 
3l8 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 FROM WILLIAM WICKHAM. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I want about 500 nominal value of Certificates given 
 for depreciation] of Pay of the York Line. It was given 
 by Haring Gassharel and Moffatt by vertue of an Act of 
 Assembly of this State. Pray exchange some of my Cer 
 tificates for them. It is the same thing at the Treasury. 
 Col. Henry Wisner left with Bancker several hundred 
 pounds; he told me I might have them. I want them much 
 to oblige a friend. Bancker I presume will make no diffi 
 culty in exchanging. 
 
 I am, Dr. Sir, your most Obt Hum. Servt., 
 
 WM. WICKHAM. 
 4th Sept. 86. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I am made happy by hearing that your affair with Liv 
 ingston has terminated boath to his and your honor. As 
 the matter is now clos d I must request you to pay a little 
 attention to our Brs. matter, respecting his Note given to 
 Miller. He the very day I returned executed a Note, but 
 I put it away to be safe, and it slipt my mind for two post 
 - tho when I left you it was agreed that in case my Brs. 
 Note did not come on in season that you should give yours. 
 Tho by Miller s letter that matter is done with. On my 
 return last evening my Br. shew me a very short letter 
 from Mr. Alsop demanding the pay immediately, a Copy 
 of which I will give you on the other side. I will thank 
 you, if you please, if you will forward me as soon as con 
 venient your long Gun and the Horseman s Tent, as I am 
 arranging every matter so as to quit this by November. I 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 319 
 
 suppose now that this matter is clos d we shall once more 
 see you and our good Aunt P[olly]. Tell my good Friend 
 Seagrove that I will do what he requested, and when I get 
 the Carpenters and joiners engag d I ll write him. Re 
 member me to all our Friends and Believe me sincerely 
 your Friend &c., 
 
 JNO. WEBB. 
 1 2th Septb., 1786. 
 
 [Copy.] 
 Sir: 
 
 Mr. Eleazer Miller, Junr. has assigned me your obligation for 750 
 this Cury, which becomes due the 27 ultimo, and he assured me that 
 you intended to discharge it very soon. Shall therefore be expecting 
 your Remittances upon the same speedily, which will oblige him who 
 is in nead of Mony, My compliments to Mrs. Webb and remain, Sir 
 &c., 
 
 JNO. ALSOP. 
 
 [torn] 1786. 
 
 You will render my Br. service by calling on Mr. Alsop 
 who must be ignorant of the impossibility of collecting 
 money. I dare say my Br. (after Mr. Miller s conduct) 
 will pay Alsop of in Notes. Dam the friendship of the 
 World. It s a time serving pest. I thank god I owe no 
 person. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I received your letter of the iyth September, and those 
 on the same subject some time since. I can only say that 
 no person has a greater desire to serve you than myself; 
 but when it is not in a person s power you cannot expect it. 
 Had you sent your Notes and Certificates at the time I 
 wrote for them, I could have sold them at I2/; but money 
 
320 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 is so scarce as to make them fall from that to 7/ and 7/6. 
 If you wish me to sell them at any rate, I will try more, 
 tho I have been in one-half of the towns in this State 
 without affecting anything. I could have sold them at 
 seven shillings, but I would not sell my own at that, and 
 of course would not sell yours. You have no right I am 
 shure to complain of me, for you have shar d largely in my 
 little all. You also should consider that I am very busy 
 in preparing to leave this. I have wrote my worthy friend 
 Seagrove a number of letters, to which I have received no 
 answer. In my last I wrote him that I had engag d Saml. 
 Bliss with thirty Joiners and Carpenters at 4/ per day, 
 given Bliss 5/, which all my friends think a very great 
 bargain. If convenient let me request you to call on him 
 and tell him that everything is now waiting for his assent. 
 I am very anxious for his answer. I am afraid that the 
 War with the savages will be detrimental] to our plan. 
 The Gentleman has calPd, so I must close saying no 
 person wishes more to serve you than your affectionate Br., 
 
 JOHN. 
 2ist Sept., [1786.] 
 
 Addressed: Genl. Saml. B. Webb, New York. Honor d by Mr. 
 Devan. 
 
 FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL. 
 
 BOSTON, Octr. I2th, 86. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 , I received your favor by the post this evening, which 
 receives an additional merit in your having stolen from 
 convivial companions [to write to] an absent friend. You 
 [torn] business and I hope much pleasure. [With] gentle- 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 321 
 
 man that is systematically bred to it, business becomes 
 pleasure. It enhances the satisfaction therefore of one 
 that am busy about nothing to be remembered by you. I 
 must consider myself as highly privileged after what your 
 sister has told me, for she says you seldom write her. I 
 see her last evening. She asks after you, and whether 
 you are not addressing a certain Lady. I reply d (what 
 should I have said?) I conjectured it. You know I do not 
 like singularity. 
 
 I shall communicate your intention of coming on, but 
 your friends will doubt your resolution, altho you have 
 given proofs of personal bravery, of quiting a place that 
 possesses such allurements as New York. 
 
 I am exceedingly pleased with the acquaintance of Mr. 
 Freeman. He professes all and I am sure feels great 
 friendship for you. 
 
 I have been obliged to write in haste or miss the con 
 veyance tomorrow. The mail is closed at 10 in the even 
 ing, and the time approaches. 
 
 I have prevailed upon Post Mr. to keep open the mail a 
 few minutes, which has given me time to scribble a line 
 which is enclosed for your delivery. It will oblige yours, 
 
 E. HASKELL. 
 
 Addressed: Genl. Saml. B. Webb, Broadway, New York. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: WETHERSFIELD, 2 3 rd October, 1786. 
 
 I now send you by Mr. James McEvers nine Guineas, 
 which is all in my power to send you. You have not 
 acknowledged the receipt of forty Dollars which I gave 
 
322 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 you, an order on Mr. Horace Johnson. You cannot ex 
 pect that I can pay that attention to your Certificates as 
 if I had nothing to do. I have everything on earth to 
 contend with. Its sufficient to make a man curse Father 
 and Mother to have to deal with my countrymen. You 
 have not been good enough to send the Tent and Gun. I 
 wish you to let me know whether it will be convenient. If 
 not I will procure them. I have embark d in a matter 
 which God only knows how it will turn out. I wish you 
 to write me and inform me whether our friend Seagrove 
 will get out of his troubles. The men I shall carry and 
 should he not be there I am afraid it will ruin me. Do my 
 friend (if Business will permit) write me fully, for much 
 depends on Seagrove s being there. I have been at great 
 expense, and its encreasing every hour. I have Chartered 
 a Vessell of 70 or 80 Tons, and shall leave this by I5th of 
 November. Some tell me he will not settle his matters; 
 do write me. I want a Black Boy to go with me as a private 
 Servant. I wish you to ask Philip to see Hazard, and see 
 if he will hire himself to me for one or two years. His old 
 Master was here on Saturday and offer d to sell him to me, 
 and ses he will send down and have him taken up. So he 
 must look out. His name is Prior. I intend to go out 
 of the Hook with my Vessell. I am obliged to go to An- 
 dover this day, which oblig d me to close this scrawl. We 
 all desire to be remember d to Aunt Polly. 
 
 I am affty Yours, JNO. W. 
 
 P. S. do be so good as to deliver our good friend Sea- 
 grove the inclos d letter. 
 
 Addressed; Genl. Samuel B. Webb, New York. Mr. James 
 McEvers. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 323 
 
 FROM JOSEPH BARRELL. 
 
 Dear Sam- BOSTON, 24th October, 1786. 
 
 I received your favor of the I5th Instant, with the Accot. 
 Sales of the wine, and I confess to you I shall be ashamed 
 to send it to the Gentn. who owns it; so very extraordinary 
 wants are not to be accounted for without the highest 
 suspicions of fraud, and I can have no doubt but they 
 were taken from the pipes, which were full and in good 
 order when you received them. I beg therefore you will 
 make further enquiry in the matter, and if possible get 
 some satisfaction; and if not, write a circumstantial accot. 
 of the matter that I may send it to the owner, without 
 which I should be ashamed to send the Sales. I have at 
 present my house full of Barrells. In a week or ten days 
 I shall thin them off, and shall then and at all times be 
 happy to see you. I hope by then you will have settled 
 your Mill Matters to your satisfaction. I have never re 
 ceived the letter you mention inclosing the Advertizement 
 respecting Gearey. Send or bring another when you come. 
 Will nothing be done about Delancy? I wish to see N. 
 York, and should have business in that line. 
 
 Inclosed you ll find a publication I have been forced into 
 to state a very oppressive Act of our Genl. Court. Read 
 it and give me your opinion if anything in Turkey can ex 
 ceed it. The Senate are debating whether to call me upon 
 the floor. I am ready to attend them when they please 
 and willing to suffer for the Truth, if they think proper to 
 extend their power for the purpose; but I havn t done 
 with them yet. My Respects to Aunt Polly, in which we 
 all join. Yours sincerely, 
 
 Jo. BARRELL. 
 
3 24 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 3 November 1786. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I have wrote several letters of late and have not received 
 any answers to them. The last was by Mr. James Mc- 
 Evers, who I sent 8 Guineas by. I have my vessel and 
 hands to go to Georgia, and our friend Seagrove has ne 
 glected sending me the letters. Its a matter of consequence 
 I should receive them, as the carpenters and joiners pay 
 commences on the ijth instant, when I shall be here with 
 forty men on pay and eating our provisions. I wish you 
 to be good enough to call on him, and request him to for 
 ward me the letters, as I am determin d to sail on the I5th 
 - letters or not. Do write me by the return of the Post, 
 particularly the situation that our friend is in. For this 
 matter may ruin me if not attended to. I think was I in 
 your place I should have assisted you, but Business I sup 
 pose of more consequence has prevented. I should have 
 been happy to have seen you before I left this, but you 
 have my best wishes for your Health and Happiness. I am 
 affectionately yours, 
 
 JNO. WEBB. 
 
 Addressed: Genl. Sam. B. Webb, New York. Per post. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I am unhappy to find by all your letters that you seem 
 to think I have neglected you. On your arrival here you 
 will find by my papers that no one could have done more. 
 I am shure that every part of my life has been to render 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 325 
 
 you service. There is no person on earth that would do 
 more to serve you than myself. I most sincerely wish you 
 every happiness in life, and should my matters turn out 
 fortunate I will prove it to you. I had promised myself 
 we should meet before I left this. I have a great deal to 
 say to you, but dare not trust it to paper. Remember me 
 particularly to all friends, and accept of my most sin 
 cere wishes for your health and happiness. I [am] yours 
 affectionately, JNO. W. 
 
 Past I o clock in the evening yth Nov. 86. 
 
 Addressed : Genl. Samuel B. Webb, New York. Per Mr. H. Deming. 
 
 FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL. 
 Dear Sir* BOSTON, November I4th, 86. 
 
 I have to acknowledge your last favor of - , date 
 unknown, but it was strongly mark d. You may remember 
 ink was used for sand. 
 
 Mr. Fitch Hall 1 the bearer of this sets off for New York 
 tomorrow where he expects to continue for a short time. 
 It will be in your power to make that place agreeable to 
 him; and as he is a very particular friend of mine, and I 
 know you to have a disposition to please, every attention 
 shown will be considered as fresh marks of esteem confer d 
 on your very sincere friend and obdt Servt., 
 
 E. HASKELL. 
 
 Addressed: General Sam l B. Webb, New York. Honored by Major 
 Hall. 
 
 1 In 1789 he was one of the aids of General John Brooks, and was 
 sent to ask President Washington when he would review the troops 
 on his visit to Cambridge. New Eng. Hist. Gen. Reg., XVI, 381. 
 
326 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 FROM LEWIS R. MORRIS. 
 
 My Dear Webb: SPRINGFIELD, 30th November, 1786. 
 
 I left New York on Saturday last and have got no farther 
 yet than this place. It now snows very fast so that in all 
 probability I remain in statu quo during this day. I am 
 however in very good quarters, vizt. Col. Worthington s. 
 Now if I can fall violently in love with one of the young 
 ladies, I might possibly turn this snow storm to a good 
 account. I lodged on Monday night at Jos. Webb s. All 
 well, your Brother was much surprized that you had not 
 gone from New York to Boston much sooner than you 
 did. They appear to lament it as it must deprive them so 
 much longer of your company, a pleasure which they 
 anticipate with much satisfaction. Your Brother Jack 
 has sailed, but there is some doubt whether he left New 
 London before Monday last. I had nearly forgot to in 
 form you of our passage from New York to New Haven. 
 We left the former on Saturday morning and got no farther 
 than Whitestone. Mr. and Mrs. King, Mr. Mrs. Lowel, 
 Mr. Mrs. Jervis, Miss Broome an other lady whose name 
 I do not remember, men besides without number, com 
 posed our party. On Sunday morning the wind came a 
 head; we beat till noon and got as far as Hempstead har 
 bor. We then went on shore and dined, &c., &c., and on 
 Monday morning arrived at our destined Port very much 
 fatigued with our voyage. Apropos ! I saw Fanny on 
 Friday evening very well. You are now, my friend, far 
 removed from New York, and of course must have more 
 leisure and find your mind more composed to form your 
 future arrangements on the business I allude to. Let 
 them my friend be such as your good sense not your pas- 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 327 
 
 sions dictates, and when once formed pursue the system 
 with all the intrepidity of a soldier and a man of honor - 
 honor to yourself demands it. My respects to any person 
 who inquires after me, and believe me your sincere friend 
 and most obedt humble servt., L. R. MORRIS. 
 
 Addressed: Samuel B. Webb, Esquire. To the care of Joseph 
 Barrell, Esquire, Boston. Honor d by Mr. Williams. 
 
 FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL. 
 
 Saturday [BOSTON, December, 1786.] 
 
 The storm, believe me, should not have prevented my 
 attendance. I am really indisposed, and the disappoint 
 ment in not having it my power is not a little mortifying. 
 I promised and made very great dependance on availing 
 myself of the kind offer or Mrs. Geere and Miss Lamb of 
 giving me compleat satisfaction this evening. It is what 
 I always have when I am in company with them and you. 
 If they recollect that I was to dine there, signify to them 
 the reason that prevents, which you will believe yourself 
 is the only one that could prevent me. Yours, 
 
 E. HASKELL. 
 
 FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL. 
 
 We have been fast tied by the teeth, and I did not break 
 loose until your note arrived. If I can disengage myself I 
 will see you this evening, but I am told it will be difficult. 
 
 Freeman I have seen and tomorrow evening we will card 
 him. Yours, E. HASKELL. 
 
 [BOSTON, December 3, 1786.] 
 
328 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 [WETHERSFIELD, January, 1787.] 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Your s I have Reed., and confess to you I am surpriz d 
 to hear our Brother has not arriv d. He saiPd on the 28th 
 Nov., and to appearance as fine a time as one coud boast 
 of; but upon reflection I recollect the wind was better to 
 run off the Coast than to the Southard. Those vessels 
 that went out with him had but ten, eleven and twelve days 
 passage to the West Indies. To answer the part of your 
 letter, I can say he was well Man d, Navigated by fine 
 Seamen in abundance, and had a most superb Sloop, as 
 good one as swims in water. 
 
 God grant all may be well. I trust if they arrive we 
 must soon hear, and I wish and think they will do well. 
 
 As to Colo. H , between you and I, I can t think He 
 will relinquish it, for I believe He s quite out of Business. 
 He s not here, or I woud sift him --that is round about. 
 I coud find out incog. I coud with ease have obtain d the 
 berth at first. As to money, Oh Brother, there is hardly 
 any such thing amongst us. I am rideing Day and Night, 
 but get little more than to carry on the necessary Law 
 Suits to secure Debts. I want to write you a long Chit 
 Chat letter. Has McEvers assigned all over to his Cred 
 itors? Who are his Creditors? What is their object? 
 What is the Law, should they push? He s within the Law 
 of being within the British Lines, I suppose. Write me 
 fully. I wish you woud [engage] in some advantageous 
 Business. So do I wish I was; and indeed between you 
 and I, coud I stock my works it woud be a genteel living, 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 3 29 
 
 and this place woud be clever for the Webbs old Mansion 
 place. How shall I obtain this great object? 
 
 Addressed: General Saml. B. Webb, New York. Per stage. 
 
 JOSEPH WEBB TO THOMAS LEVERETT. 
 
 Dear Leverett: 
 
 The Business / begun on Paper for you was for a blind. 
 I hope you find your Health mending. Depend on it, my 
 friend, you must pay attention, or your Constitution is 
 ruined. You may now mend, and indeed entirely recover 
 if you will; all depends on your attention. More I need 
 not say. Has Shipman of Glastenbury arrived in [New] 
 York? Has He got any Hides? What is the price of 
 Hides, and other things in York? What is the reason you 
 have not wrote me? When do you expect to return? 
 How do you like the Gay Town ? Tell Aunt Polly Duyc- 
 kinck I am sorry she s not here. The things she sent all 
 arrived in good Order and pleased. Butler was married 
 last Thursday Evening to Polly Belden; had nobody there 
 but Relations. Its a matter of much speculation. Except 
 Mit[chell], March - and Porter, those three family s, no 
 other are pleased with the Match, I believe. So much chit 
 chat at her Disadvantage makes me sorry, altho I think 
 she s been a fool to have him. But after all shes young 
 and knows no better a poor silly . I say nothing. 
 
 I wish you woud call on Mr. Thos. Ivers, and get him to 
 state his Acct. with Silas Deane; also with me. 
 
 I have the pleasure to tell you that the new Bell is ar- 
 
33O FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 rived, and we have placed it on 4 Hogsheads, so that we 
 have sounded it, and it pleases. 
 
 Justus Riley went to New London on Tuesday last, and 
 is not yet returned. I deliv d the wife the Letter Colo. 
 Webb Requested. Yr H. Servt., 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 January I5th, 1787. 
 
 I sent per James Bull a Calve Skin for G. G. Beekman, 
 to be left with Edward Gould. 
 
 I wish you woud find Thos. Hazard the Currier, used to 
 work for Denny, now in York. I lent him a Guinea, 
 which get of him and four years Interest at 7 p ct. 
 
 Addressed: Mr. Thomas Leverett, to the care of General S. B. 
 Webb, New York. 
 
 FROM HENRY W. LIVINGSTON. 
 
 Mr. Henry W. Livingston presents his Compliments to 
 Genl. Webb, and requests the favor of his Company to 
 pass the evening on Wednesday next. 
 
 Wednesday Morning, [i7th January, 1787.] 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Thursday Morng, 
 January 18, 1787. 
 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I was writing you this Morng., and the stage past in 
 haste, and I coud not have time to close it, date or any 
 thing, only in the manner you reed. it. I sent it. I thot 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 33! 
 
 in its rough state it woud convince you I had reed your 
 letter and let you know we had not heard of our Brother. 
 I wish I coud say I was not anxious, but yet as the winds 
 was when He left New London, he may yet be well; but 
 at best he s had a long disagreeable voyage. 
 
 I hope you are on friendly terms with McEvers. What 
 is He about? What am I to do? Will He, after what I 
 have done for him, Assign over my Debt without con 
 sulting me; with his other Debts, if they push? He was 
 within the British lines. Your Laws I suppose give him 
 no advantage better than others that staid within the 
 Lines except confiscation, but liable to be paid in public 
 Securities. This to yourself. Weigh and find out round 
 about, and write me fully. I look upon Charles the Elder 
 a good man; but as to any of the family, or even Jemmy, 
 I have no good opinion of their lenity. Jemmy loged here 
 last evening and appears to be vastly clever and friendly. 
 He advises me by all means to come to York and make 
 terms with the ASSIGNEES. Those Assignees are his 
 Brother and Law. By Leverett write me fully, and send 
 me the paper that has His Assignments in. If He is not 
 attentive to me He s ungrateful to the last degree. Charles 
 McEvers ought in conscience to reserve that Debt from 
 Assignment, for I sav d him ten times more than all my 
 Debt. Cant you find out by Charles the Elder, what his 
 determination is, and what his sentiments are? Woud 
 you advise me to come to York? Do me all the service 
 you can with Alsop and King. Your sister Webb is ex 
 tremely well, and desires to be rememb d. She has road 
 out. She and so is all the rest of your friends Chagrin d 
 that we had so little of your time. I wish you woud tell 
 Ebenr. Hazard he ought to indulge us with a post office in 
 
332 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 this Town. Jared Burr will take it. Mitchell will assist 
 you. 
 
 Yr. H Servt as well as most Afft Br. and friend, 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 I owe Ch. McEvers 
 
 Augustus Vanhorn 
 
 The debt of Alsop or King 
 
 Perry, Hayes and Sherbrooke 
 
 G. G. Beekman 
 
 Wm. Denning 
 
 D. Phenix (cant hurt me) 
 
 Broome & Co. owe me 
 
 (Morton Estate, to be settled by agremt. here to 
 
 mutual satisfaction between Root and me.) 
 Jere Wadsworth goes from here for York next Monday 
 with Harriot. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 NEW HAVEN, February Qth, 1787. 
 
 At Pierpont Edwards s. 1 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I have reed, no letter from you since my two last. I 
 wish you to write me a long circumstantial letter in answer 
 to all I have wrote you. I must confess to you I am ex 
 tremely anxious about our Brother Jack. Not a word 
 have I heard since He sail d from New London. He left 
 this place on the 28th November. I dare not venture to 
 let your Sister Webb know my Anxiety about him. I tell 
 her the Westerly Winds have drove him off to the West 
 
 1 Son of Rev. Jonathan Edwards, and a judge of the United States 
 District Court. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 333 
 
 Indies. Do write me often. No one can be so busy, but 
 He may snatch away from hurry time enough to answer 
 his friends letters. I have reed the new Bell from London, 
 and errected it, and a most excellent one it is, weighg. 1600 
 Ibs. This will be sent you by Mrs. Bull. Joseph Bull will 
 soon return from York; by him you can send me the Accts. 
 I wrote you for. The Mems you left with me will soon 
 be compleated, and I will send you the things by some 
 team to New Haven, and from New Haven by water if you 
 request it. I am here to close my Accts. with Broome, 
 which I hope I shall close to my mind. 
 
 Yr. H. Servt. and most Afft. Br., 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
 Joseph Barrell wants a Bottle of Genuine Mardant s 
 Drops. Send it direct to him or me, and I will forward it. 
 Do not fail the first oppt., as He wants it much for one of 
 his children. 
 
 FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL. 
 
 BOSTON, February nth, 1787. 
 My Dear Webb: 
 
 I received your two favors, for which I am indebted and 
 hold myself reprehensible, at a moment when many objects 
 of a military nature and therefore of importance were 
 pressing so close upon me, 1 as to leave not even leisure to 
 pay a debt justly tho not often due. Prove me again in 
 the same way, and the oftener the more you will evince 
 your friendship, and I promise never to be so far in arrears. 
 I told Hetty what I had wrote you, and she was hurt on 
 
 1 In connection with Shays rebellion. 
 
334 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 the same point I find you winch. I will not again offend 
 your feelings on this head, but leave it to its own oppera- 
 tion to determine whether you or myself know what we 
 are. Your sister says we believe the same thing of each 
 other. That is we both suspect the weakness of the other 
 in a certain matter, while each is sure of his own strength. 
 It was extreme goodness, was it not, for a young lady to 
 advance even to a something not short of a declaration to 
 you, because she conceived the happiness of him she de 
 clared in favor of concerned. This no doubt was the real 
 situation, and such tenderness, tho unsuccessful yourself, 
 you must needs admire. The expedient shows resourse of 
 mind, and I hope it has succeeded to every one s expectation . 
 There, will be done. 
 
 What can I do? They will not write to me. Do they 
 
 speak to you? If so, ask one who looks the best natured 
 
 towards me, if you dare to write me what they will not 
 
 write. At the same time my correspondence is at an end 
 
 - not with you. Yours, 
 
 E. H. 
 
 Write me by every conveyance. 
 
 Addressed: General S. B. Webb, New York. Hon d by Mr. Thorp. 
 
 To ELNATHAN HASKELL. 
 
 N YORK, Wednesday Evening, 
 
 2Oth February, 1786 [1787.] 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Yours of the i8th Instant was handed me this morning 
 by Mr. Flint, together with the ballance due me. It 
 would have been more pleasing had the amount been vested 
 in New York finals, or Continental Loan Office Certificates. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 335 
 
 Should you proceed in further purchases on the conditions 
 stated in my letter of the I4th Instant, (which was for 
 warded by Major Swan), you may draw on me for the 
 amount payable at sight, not however to exceed One 
 Thousand Dollars; and if you have a mind to risk an equal 
 share of profits, without any charge of Commissions or 
 other expense, I have no objections. Of this, however, 
 please to notify me before, or at the time of forwarding the 
 paper. 
 
 In the course of conversation this Evening with Mrs. 
 [blank] your name [for the first time since my arrival in 
 Town] was mentioned by me. This brought on some 
 thing respecting your letter, when I took occasion to men 
 tion you had shown it me in Boston. It was not expressed 
 by you as a secret, nor have I an idea you wish d it; I, 
 however, have thought it my duty to give you this infor 
 mation; the Father and Daughter were both out, no offer 
 was made of your letters. I should do injustice to Mrs. 
 \blanK\ did I not say she spoke of you in very respectfull 
 terms, and particularly said "she always had an esteem 
 for you." I have been induced to inform you of this con 
 versation, as in a late letter I assured you not a word had 
 been said of you (to me) by the persons alluded to since my 
 return from Boston, and I shall not fail of informing them 
 I have given you this information as I wish not to do or 
 say anything which may ever appear disingenuous. I 
 cannot, my friend, altogether justify your conduct. I do 
 not think you have acted with all that candor which you 
 ought in a business of such magnitude; not however that 
 I know it will give the Lady the least uneasiness, for I have 
 not heard a sentiment on the subject since I left you; but 
 I confess if she is happy, it must be owing more to her own 
 
FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 resolutions than your propriety of conduct. The subject, 
 however, I believe painfull to you, and I will not longer 
 dwell on it. I hope we shall soon see you here, when I 
 shall take the liberty of again pressing you to say in person 
 what I advised you to write -- that is, provided your senti 
 ments are the same as when we last conversed together. 
 Capt. Phillips goes for Boston in a few days; by him you 
 shall hear from me, but not a word about females, nor is it 
 my wish ever again to touch the subject. Tell my Sister 
 H. I will write her; she shall no longer complain of the 
 neglect of her Brother and your friend, 
 
 S. B. WEBB. 
 
 FROM WALTER LIVINGSTON. 
 
 Mr. Walter Livingston presents his compliments to 
 Genl. Webb, and requests the pleasure of his company at 
 dinner tomorrow on Salmon with a few friends. 
 
 Thursday [NEW YORK, March, 1787.] 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Not a line from Jack Webb since the first without date. 
 I hope you have and can acquaint me what they are all 
 about. I find you more neglectful in answering my letters 
 than I am yours. Pray answer all the questions I put to 
 you from time to time, as they may render me essential 
 service. I have sent to Windsor, East Hartford, and the 
 rounds about, but without any success for Salmon. The 
 water is muddy and too high. I shall remember you in due 
 season, provided they are caught. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 337 
 
 I wish you would write me the price of Cabin and steerage 
 passengers from [New] York to Georgia, as a vessel will 
 soon go from Hartford, and I am about sending some Bar 
 rels to Jack, and He says the price is York price and knows 
 no other. This leaves things quite uncertain. I am, 
 Dear Sam, 
 
 Your Most Affect. Broth, 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 March iQth 1787. 
 
 Pray have you sent forward my letters to London? 
 When you have a private Opport. to Georgia I wish you 
 would enclose the letters to Jack that I sent you for his 
 work people, and others. His first Captain of the Vessel, 
 Nott, has got home, but has never CalFd on me. I sup 
 pose He and Jack have fallen out. I wish Br. Jack woud 
 command his Temper more for his own sake; but in this 
 case I do not know who is most to blame or either. I sent 
 you a pair Boot Legs, soals, &c. from Denny. He is not 
 so much to blame as you may think. He is hurt you 
 think so, but he has had none that would please you, be 
 sides what belonged to other people. He will endeavor 
 to please you in a thiner pair in the Month of April. I 
 shoud be too happy had I a full supply of stock. What 
 can be done? I must devise ways and means somehow or 
 somehow. Yr. H. Servt. and Afft. Br., 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
 I have advised Barrell to take Nancy and go by water to 
 [New] York, and so up the North River to Lebanon Pool. 
 I believe very much in the waters. I assure you I believe 
 they woud help her in Twenty Days. 
 
338 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL. 
 
 BOSTON, March nth, 87. 
 My Dear Sir: 
 
 Yours I have dated the 28th ulto. If you was Minister 
 of the United Netherlands, or in any other public employ 
 ment or in private keeping, you could not appear more in 
 haste than you commonly do when you write any of your 
 friends. This I believe commonly happens with people in 
 your and my situation. To set down in a cool formal de 
 liberate manner to answer a letter to a friend is what I 
 seldom do, but wait until the last moment, and then am 
 compelled to scribble in such monstrous haste as renders 
 it almost unintelligible. This will be a proof in point. 
 
 The Dulcinea of your affections in this quarter appears 
 every day more amiable and attracts universal admiration. 
 Her public appearance at the last assembly was beyond 
 description eligant. She is a charming girl. She sings, 
 plays upon the Harpsichord, and dances, to use the common 
 expression on beings so perfect, divinely. I spoke to her 
 of you. You are a happy man if you would but improve 
 the favorable opinion she entertains of you. 
 
 It is probable the Troops from this state will march soon, 
 and for the westward Springfield and Berkshire. 
 
 Your Sisters are well, and uncommonly well pleased at 
 your industry of writing nearly two lines in their favor or 
 about them, rather. Yours &c., 
 
 E. H. 
 
 Addressed: B. Genl. S. B. Webb, New York. Post. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 339 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 My Dear Brother: Ist A P ril > 7 8 7- 
 
 As I was Rideing about eight Days since, My Horse s 
 fore legs of a sudden broke thro the frost and hove me off, 
 then fell upon me, so as to break Two of my Ribbs, wounded 
 another, and bruise my Head very much, so that I look as 
 if I had been to an Irish wedding. I expect to be well in a 
 few days. I walk about House, and have walked in the 
 Garden this Day. I have thro much anxiety, troable, and 
 vexation, at last got a Salmon, which will Cost as much as 
 it comes to. I wish it may come in good Order. The 
 water has been high and muddy, so that a vast number of 
 fine fellows have escaped our nets, and, indeed, this is the 
 only one been caught in Town. I have sent to Windsor 
 and East Hartford, and coud get none. Forward my let 
 ters to London and to Georgia. I wish you woud write me 
 more fully about Jack. Is there Vessels going constantly 
 to Savanna? I must send him some Negroes and some 
 N. E. Rum. He says &c., &c. We are out of Choice 
 good Tea. My love to Aunt Polly and the Circle. Your 
 affectionate Br., 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I send you by the Stage three Salmon 
 One weighs 36% 
 i Do 27% 
 I Do 2714 
 
 which cost 6d L[awful] m[oney] per 
 p[ound]. 
 
34-O FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 The one sent you cost yd. I suppose by tomorrow Night 
 they may be down to 3^. I know not what you intend 
 about them, or how [to] divide them. They will Cost you 
 much I fear (but do you recollect my friends Jno. [seal], 
 G. G. Beekman, Mrs. Sherbrooke, A. Vanhorn; in short 
 I shall say nothing about them. 
 
 I inclose you some Letters to forward to Georgia. Re 
 member us about some Tea, as we are out of Good. I have 
 debeted the Salmon and Box to you for the present. Write 
 me often, and let me know how you all do, and how you 
 get along. Yr Afft. Br., 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 April 4th, 1787. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH BARRELL. 
 
 BOSTON, May 26, 1787. 
 Dear Sam: 
 
 Inclosed you will find a letter for Capt. Green. After 
 you have perused it, seal and deliver it inter nos. I think 
 he has not used me well by any means. I wish however 
 to have the matter settled amicably,, and try what can be 
 done in that line; but if he is not disposed to do me Justice 
 I must insist on your endeavours to see it is done. You ll 
 see I want first the sales of the goods which he disposed of, 
 which were the best of what was returned, and cost in 
 China about 2100 Dollars. I must beg you will attend to 
 this, and press him for his Accounts untill he gives them to 
 you. This will be handed by Mr. Pintard, who will re 
 turn immediately here by him. I wish you to write me 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 34! 
 
 fully. Nancy remains yet the same. The rest of the 
 Family are well. 
 
 I am, Dear Sam, Your friend and Brother, 
 
 Jos. BARRELL. 
 
 Addressed: Sam l B. Webb, Esq., at New York. Favor Mr. Pin- 
 tard. 
 
 FROM JOHN MEIGS. 
 
 MIDDLETOWN, May 29th, 1787. 
 Sir: 
 
 I have been waiting the pleasure of seeing you for some 
 time past, but your not having made a visit in this state 
 has induced me to write you a Line at this time. I have 
 desired Mr. Parsons the bearer of this letter to wait on you, 
 and provided you have any Mony for the final settlements, 
 shall be much obliged to you to remit it by him, as I am 
 necessitated for Cash at this time, which will greatly 
 oblige, Yours sincerely, 
 
 JOHN MEIGS. 
 
 Addressed: Brigdr. Genl. Saml. B. Webb, New York. Fav d by 
 Mr. Parsons. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Its a long time since I have heard from you. When do 
 you and Aunt Polly think of coming this way? Pray if 
 you cant come, let her come in some friend s care, and I 
 will pay the Stage. Am[os] B[u]ll attempts to get a Bill 
 of divorce from Mrs. B[ull]; its put over untill October 
 Sessions. Where is She? What is her character? When 
 
342 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 did you hear from Brother Jack? He begs we woud not 
 forget we have a Brother in Georgia. I have not heard 
 from him since 27th March. What says our worthy friend 
 Sherbrooke? Yr. H. Servt as well as affectionate Brother, 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 June nth, 1787. 
 
 Have you sent my Letters to Effingham Lawrence ? And 
 if they are gone, pray let me know by whom. Please to 
 forward all the Letters to Georgia in due season. Between 
 you and me I have had an Arbitration with Saml. Browne, 
 and they brot. in my favor a Balance due me, but not 
 enough. I know this will give you satisfaction, as He 
 once Chatted with you on the subject as tho I owed Him. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, New York. Per Mr. Stores. 
 I little Bundle. 
 
 FROM SAMUEL HODGSON. 1 
 
 PHILADELPHIA, I3th June, 1787. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 On my return from a southern tour I found your favour 
 of the 1 5th ultimo, advising of your drafts for 82 dollars 
 Paper Money, which when presented shall be duly hon 
 oured. Your three Tickets Nos. 1061, 63 and 67 are 
 prizes of 25 dollars each; the other is a Blank. The tickets 
 must be produced previous to payment. You will please 
 to enclose them for that purpose. 
 
 With esteem I am, dear Sir, Your most obedient servant, 
 
 SAML. HODGSON. 
 
 1 A partner in business of Timothy Pickering. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 343 
 
 FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL. 
 
 BOSTON, June lyth, 1787. 
 
 Since my return, Dear Sir, from the country, where I 
 was detained much longer than I intended to have been, 
 your favors of the 2Oth May and 2nd June were handed to 
 me. Your polite intentions to Major Erving he expressed 
 to me yesterday, and lamented the weather was such as 
 prevented him making with you a visit to the several strong 
 grounds and fortifications in the vicinity of New York. 
 
 Not long since there was a probability of my visiting 
 your city, which I have now altogether given up the idea 
 of, or if I do, it is at a distance from this period. Boston 
 will be my place of residence during the warm season, not 
 of necessity but of choice, where I shall expect you soon. 
 Since my return only two days ago, I have not seen Tyler. 
 From him I shall learn your mischief, and I promise you 
 that the most ill natured use possible shall be made of it, 
 unless you in person communicate that part of it with 
 which he is unacquainted. Barrel I see yesterday, who 
 tells me no alteration has taken place at his house. We 
 conversed of you, and both wished it had been to you. 
 There is a rage for politics and Arms existing in Boston, 
 tho in everything there prevails a violent opposition. Now 
 is your time to visit it. I continue a spectator in all things, 
 and it will be an improvement to have your assistance. 
 
 All the artillery of party rage is levelled in the House of 
 Representatives, but insurgency, tho it bellows loud, is 
 silenced by the well directed fire of two Governmental 
 pieces -- Sedgwick and [Theophilus] Parsons. Yours 
 adieu. 
 
 E. HASKELL. 
 
344 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM GARY LuDLow. 1 
 
 NEW YORK, July 9, 1787. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 The Executors of Mr. Charles Crooke 2 deceased have 
 repeatedly been called upon by the Legatees, &c., for their 
 dividends of the Estate, and their necessities are such that 
 they have lately put the bonds of the said estate in my 
 hands for the purpose of collecting them in, with positive 
 directions to have them immediately prosecuted unless 
 forthwith discharged. Among them I find a bond given 
 by Mr. Richd Banker, dated II March, 1761, conditioned 
 for the payment of 200, on which the Interest is due from 
 March, 1775. I have long since had similar directions 
 respecting a bond of 100 due to James Devereux, with Int. 
 from May, 1775. I shall feel myself happy if this business 
 could be accommodated by my friend without an Increase 
 of charges. 
 
 From His Humble Servt., 
 
 GARY LUDLOW. 
 
 FROM JAMES SEAGROVE. 
 
 SAVANNAH, Sunday afternoon, 22 July, 1787. 
 Dear Sam: 
 
 I certainly should not give you the Trouble of a line at 
 this time was not the opportunity so very inviting, and 
 just to thank you most kindly for the many long Letters 
 and full information you promised, which have never yet 
 found their way to Georgia. I still live in hope that I am 
 
 1 Surrogate in New York after the peace. 
 
 2 Charles Crook, merchant of New York, left a wife Anneke, and 
 children, John, Charles, and Cornelia. Cornelia married a Ludlow. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 345 
 
 not totaly lost in your remembrance, tho I fear in your 
 Esteem; at least in your attention. Trust all this has not 
 lessened one jot or tittle my affection and Friendship for 
 you, and only hope when you spare a moment from the 
 service of your Female Friends, you would think of the 
 unfortunate Exile. 
 
 J. SEAGROVE. 
 Mrs. S. desires best respects. 
 
 Addressed: Brigr. Genl. Saml. B. Webb, New York. By Major 
 Webb. 
 
 FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL. 
 
 BOSTON, August 26th, 87. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Yours of the 2nd instant was handed me on the 23rd, 
 with the enclosures. The letter was delivered to your 
 sister, and the Chancellor s oration, 1 for which I return 
 you Brooks s 2 with my thanks, shall be disposed of as 
 you direct. Daws s performance would afford you little 
 amusement or instruction. 3 It is in my opinion a produc 
 tion which would have been expected from a promising 
 school boy, and nothing more. This to your self. 
 
 Shaw was on the eve of departure before I was acquainted 
 with his being in Town. I wish I could have seen more of 
 him. He has told me the amiable fair one (for still do you 
 not think such and more of her, and why may not I) has 
 gone to be benefited by the Springs of Lebanon. Gallantry 
 
 1 Robert R. Livingston s oration before the New York Society of 
 the Cincinnati, 1787. 
 
 2 John Brooks oration before the Massachusetts Society, 1787. 
 
 3 Thomas Dawes, oration on July 4, 1787. 
 
346 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 should have dictated, and you complied with it, the guard 
 ing her steps upon such a rugged rout, and secure her 
 from vulgar attacks in her bathing and unguarded mo 
 ments. By a judicious arrangement you might have 
 lavished to y9urself a sight no mortal eye has yet been 
 ravished with. Her polished limbs exposed to view you 
 have often dreamed of; but to realize would be an immortal 
 feast. To me however, who am not easily warmed, there 
 appears a stain upon her conduct which cannot be effaced 
 by all the waters which the imagination is capable of con 
 ceiving of. 
 
 If at periods when irritation has powerfully opperated I 
 have lessened her merits and heightened her foibles, it was 
 not with a malicious intention to injure. Cooler reason 
 convinces she has many virtues and but few faults. They 
 are blended as in other fairest characters. Of this how 
 ever you, who have the advantage of two pair of Eyes, will 
 and ought to be the sole judge. Yours In haste Adieu. 
 
 E. HASKELL. 
 
 Addressed: Saml. B. Webb, New York. Honored by Mr. Shaw. 
 
 FROM ELNATHAN HASKELL. 
 
 BOSTON, August 3ist, 1787. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 I wrote you by Shaw, enclosing Brooks s oration, since 
 which I have received yours of the 2Oth. I had conceived 
 previous to the receit of this letter that I had returned two 
 for one, and that there was greater reason to expect being 
 chided for having over shot the mark than falling short. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 347 
 
 On that point I am at ease, and sit down to give you 2/6 
 postage, which is more than this can be worth. 
 
 I am well pleased with the prospects of Fanny. There 
 is something in the recollection of the good opinion we have 
 entertained of another that gratifies us on hearing of their 
 prosperity, although they may have long since forfeited 
 their merit. Or to see a person in affliction from unworthi- 
 ness that has once been the object of our affection would 
 give poignancy even to pain itself. In the present in 
 stance without being violently moved by one or the other 
 of these emotions I think she may become, if married, the 
 very fine lady, to a fine gentleman. 
 
 You mention respecting my letters and having asked for 
 them. It is long since that my ultimatum was forwarded, 
 and I believe by you. My never having received an 
 answer either to this or any other, nor my request in hav 
 ing those letters returned not complied with, is construed 
 by me into an intentional insult. Whether the insult 
 is more to themselves or to me I will not pretend to 
 determine. 
 
 I am very glad you persevere in your intention of coming 
 to Boston, and I hope you will bear off Platt at the same 
 time. 
 
 The precise time for the departure of the Fleet is not 
 fixed. They will be seen if you arrive in all September. 
 
 Tyler 1 has been in town frequently of late, and is con 
 stantly unfolding amiable and witty talents. 
 
 Mr. Barrel and family are well. Your sister spotless 
 except in her love of you, which with all your faults she 
 still feels and expresses. Whenever I can prevail upon her 
 
 1 Royall Tyler, jurist, and author of the " Contrast," the first Amer 
 ican play acted by an established company of comedians. 
 
348 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 to join with me in abuse of you I shall consider it as the 
 strongest evidence of my influence over her. 
 
 I heard of the indisposition of your Brother soon after 
 his arrival. Tell him I ardently wish his recovery, and 
 therefore recommend him to the healthy climate and tender 
 care of Connecticut. Your eternal watchings will wear 
 him out. Or has he like the rest of the family learned to 
 live without sleeping? I tell Hetty that she may with 
 very little trouble become immortal, for she neither eats, 
 drinks, nor sleeps. In haste, I am your friend and Obt 
 Servt., 
 
 E. HASKELL. 
 
 Freeman says you are a promising young man. He will 
 be married soon to Mrs. Brown. She is not worth much 
 money, and has a daughter 16 or 17 years old. 
 
 FROM SCHENCK AND VAN BUREN. 
 
 MILLSTON, 22 October, 1787. 
 Sir: 
 
 Inclosed you have the letter written by Mr. John Duy- 
 ckinck, which our A. VanBuren informed you he left. We 
 shall this day call on Mr. Duyckinck; shou d we agree 
 with regard to the price and the payments to be made to 
 him, will inform you imediately - - tho it is very probably 
 we may not, unless he makes a considerable abatement, as 
 their has been a misunderstanding in the Business. We 
 are, Sir, your H ble Servants, 
 
 SCHENCK and VAN BUREN. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 349 
 
 FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN. 
 Dear Webb : BOSTON, 9 October, 1787. 
 
 By Major Sargent have sent your Buckles, executed in 
 my Opinion with taste. I hope they will find favor in your 
 sight. 
 
 Inclos d you have the Bill of them, and I shall thank 
 you to send me in return three Hd. of Fishes, such as you 
 informed might be bought for four Dollars, genuine pearl. 
 
 The remainder you ll please to invest in silk stockings, 
 if they can be bot of the first Quality for is/ L[awful] 
 M[one]y per pair large size. As to the taste of them, in 
 recommending them to your good Opinion I know I shall 
 be fully satisfied. 
 
 I cou d not come to BarrelPs the night before you left 
 Town; the Genl. did not leave me till after 12 o clock. 
 
 My best Love, Compts., &c., attend you ever, but I am 
 in great haste, tho with equal sincerity your Friend, &c., 
 
 JONA. FREEMAN. 
 
 You ll please to send me the Pearl Fishes and by Barnard. 
 
 FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN. 
 Dear Webb: BOSTON, roth October, 1787. 
 
 I sent Letters by Major Sargent for you and Jack 
 Tuesday last, but his delay gives me an Oppto. to renew 
 my wish that the Buckles may please you. They were 
 made as you desir d, one stud smaller each way. If any 
 Friend wishes a pattern to make a pair like yours, please 
 to refer them to the maker. By a similar answer I have 
 preserv d the pattern almost to myself these five years. 
 
35O FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 You wont forget the Fishes by Barnard, and the Bala. 
 with a small sum which perhaps Jack may have of mine, 
 you will do me a particular favor to invest in Table Cloths 
 and towels, half of each for common use; the Table cloths 
 to be at about 12 / or 157 our money, and Towels as cheap 
 as you can get them, common napkins, the Table Cloths 
 to be two yds square. 
 
 These articles pay 15 p. C. Impost here, and are con 
 sequently very dear. In haste, with Friendship, yours, 
 
 JON. FREEMAN. 
 
 I would not trouble you with such a petty Memo., but 
 I know not (if Jack gets five or six Guineas for my watch 
 as he intends) how to get the proceeds back. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH BARRELL. 
 
 BOSTON, nth October, 1787. 
 Dear Sam: 
 
 I hav nt heard whether you died on the journey, or 
 arrived safe at New York. Let me be informed if you are 
 yet alive. The Newton Pippens, large fine and pickt by 
 hand, two barrils; the Hudson Strawberries, send as many 
 as you can, and as soon as you please. The Medals, the 
 Medals! Alas, I havn t it in my power to send by this 
 oppt., as I ve had a New one made for the one that sunk 
 in, and just as it was finished an Accident ruined it. An 
 other will be finished tonight, and by the next oppt. you 
 shall have them. 1 Will you enquire of Mr. Murray what 
 
 1 Probably one of the medals sent out by Barrell and his associates 
 with the ships Columbia and Washington to Nootka Sound and the 
 Sandwich Islands. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 35! 
 
 is done about Gearey s Matters, and what is yet necessary 
 to be done. 
 
 Tell Aunt Polly I never expect to see her, and if I don t 
 I shall be mortified. Sally and Hetty are both pretty well, 
 as are my little ones. Adieu. 
 
 Your Friend and Brother, 
 
 Jos. BARRELL. 
 
 Addressed: Saml. B. Webb, New York. Per Major Sargent. 
 
 FROM AUGUSTUS VAN CORTLANDT. 
 
 LOWER YONKERS, Nov. 29th, 1787. 
 My Dear General: 
 
 I shall esteem it a favor to have a setlement of Mr. Banck- 
 er s bond. I think last month was fourteen years since 
 the Same was given, and only one year s Interest paid. 
 Something, therefore, must soon be done, as I don t wish 
 others to have the preference, by pursueing such measures 
 as I do not by any means wish to take. If my information 
 be true, Ths. Marston 1 intends soon to sue for principal 
 and interest, and I see nothing to prevent recovering both, 
 the time of payment or tendring security, mentioned in the 
 3d. proviso of an act of the Legislature passed the last 
 Session, being six months from the passing of said act, 
 expired the 2Oth of October now last past. He, as well as 
 myself, are now on a footing with those who were out of 
 the lines, or as if no act had ever passed relative to debts 
 due to persons within the enemy s lines. Should Mr. 
 Marston nevertheless proceed, you will still have it in your 
 
 1 Thomas Marston was son of Nathaniel and Mary (Crook) Mar 
 ston. He married Amelia Lispenard, and died in 1814. 
 
352 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 power to give me the preference, or put me in a situation 
 with him by enabling me to obtain a Judgment by Con 
 fession. I shall be glad to hear from you on the subject; 
 in the interim I remain with much respect. Your most 
 obedt. Servt., 
 
 AUGUST VAN CoRTLANDT. 1 
 
 Addressed: General Webb. Favor d by Mr. White 
 
 FROM THOMAS SMITH. 
 Sir: 
 
 Mr. John R. Myer has put into my hands a Bond against 
 the Estate of Mr. Rich d Bancker, in order to prosecute for 
 the Money Due thereon. As I understand you are the 
 Representative to that Estate, he has requested me to call 
 upon you to Discharge the Debt, which he says you En 
 gaged to do some time ago. I beg your answer and am 
 your most Obt. and very Humble Servt., 
 
 THOS. SMITH. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH BARRELL. 
 
 BOSTON, 8th December, 1787. 
 Dear Sam: 
 
 By the last post I inclosed you my Acct against Capt. 
 Green, and I hope ere this reaches you you will have setled 
 it with him and have received the money, which I shall be 
 very glad to hear; for such has been my want of that root 
 of evil, that I ve been obliged to dispose of all my Bridge 
 Stock which I should not on any terms, but the want 
 thereof have consented to. 
 
 1 A brother of Anne, wife of Augustus Van Home. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 353 
 
 I have this day drawn on you in favr. Mr. Cromerias 
 333i Dollars at five days, but I wish you to pay on 
 sight. I put the five days in case he should want the hard 
 [money] to get it in; and if he does demand specie, pay it 
 him, tho I hope the person he sends it to may like the Cur 
 rency better. As I wrote you in my last to purchaise finals, 
 if you have done it, dispose of them again enough to raise 
 this sum, or if you could not readily do that, you may re 
 draw on me at 3 days, and I will pay it, tho I do not sup 
 pose you have invested the money yet. I observe there is 
 some Ordinance of Congress respecting the payment of 
 the prize money of the ship Alliance. 1 I wish you would 
 inquire into the matter, and lay in a claim in my behalf 
 for what is coming to my Negro, who went by the name of 
 Jube Blodget, the same person who had given a power to 
 some person which you informed me some time ago; there 
 fore I wish you to see immediately about the matter, and 
 prevent my losing everything by the Rascal. We are all 
 pretty well. Hetty and Sally join in love to you and Aunt 
 Polly. Why will you not do the needful respecting Murray 
 in Gearey s matters. 
 
 I am, Dr. Sam, Your friend and brother, 
 
 JOSEPH BARRELL. 
 
 If you will let a Silver smith file and polish the edges of 
 your Medal and have it properly cleaned, it will look better 
 than the Silver one. 
 
 Addressed: Samuel B. Webb, New York. Pr. Post. 2 
 
 1 See Journals of the Continental Congress , October 1 1, 1787. 
 
 2 The postage was one shilling ten pence. 
 
354 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 Dear Br: 
 
 I wonder I do not hear from you on my Affairs. I ex 
 pected more particulars. What do you mean by your 
 hints I have not concluded all .the Names of my Creditors ? 
 Do write me often, as I am on the rack of suspense. Jack 
 Webb sailed for Georgia the 2d December. I think he s 
 had a fine time. I have much to say but this Opp ty 
 will not permit. Write me fully per the return of this 
 post. Jack Webb went away in good spirits. Give my 
 love to Sherry, McEvers, &c. Call on them often for a 
 little time for my sake. All the family are well. 
 Adieu Yr Afft. Br. 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 [WETHERSFIELD,] Deer. loth, 1787. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, New York. 
 
 FROM WINTHROP SARGENT. 
 
 26th Jany. 1788, BOSTON. 
 
 This, My Dear Webb, is the 3d letter I have wrote you 
 without a word of Reply. My last was by the way of 
 Providence with Six Maps, one for yourself, one for Gen 
 eral Knox, one for St. John, one for Capt. Hutchins and 
 the other two for [Sebastian] Bauman and Platt. 
 
 I intend being in York about the middle or 2Oth of next 
 month, provided I have reason to suppose that our Gov 
 ernor will be there, on my way to the Western Country, 
 where my Dear Fellow I wish most sincerely you would go 
 at least to take a look at the country, and if you have not 
 Business to engage you here it will really be well disposing 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 355 
 
 of yourself, and you will receive more satisfaction than at 
 this distance you may promise yourself. 
 
 I shall stay about two weeks in York, and should like to 
 have Lodgeings near you that we might visit together, &c., 
 and pass our Leisure moments in social friendly chat. 
 Look out for me. Adieu and believe me yours affec 
 tionately, 
 
 W. S. 
 
 Remember me respectfully at the Corner. 
 
 Addressed: Hon ble Gen l Samuel B. Webb, New York. 
 
 FROM RICHARD NEAVE, JUNIOR, TO MRS. BANCKER. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA, 18 February 1788. 
 Madam: 
 
 I am much surpriz d that you have not favor d my 
 Father with an Answer to his Letter dated the 3d of Decem 
 ber, 1786, which he wrote concerning the Annuity of Mrs. 
 Stables, who has suffer d greatly by your refusal of her 
 Bills and not complying with your Engagement of keeping 
 her regularly paid. I cannot help saying, Madam, that 
 your Conduct in this Affair has been most Ungenerous both 
 to her and my Father, as you have never made her one 
 payment, and that what she has receiv d was paid by him 
 and charg d to your late Husband s Acct., which you may 
 see by referring to it. I shall only add on this Subject 
 that I expect you will give us a full and satisfactory Answer 
 to this matter by return of the Bearer, Mr. Joseph Carson. 
 
 With regard to your late Husband acct. with Richd. 
 Neave & Son, the Ballance was as by the Acct. transmitted 
 him 1636. 13. 2. Sterling on the 3ist Decemb., 1774, since 
 
356 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 which there is to the Credit of it (agreeable to a Note you 
 delivered me the last time I had the pleasure of seeing you) 
 82. 6. i Sterling. One article in it of 3. 6. o Sterling for 
 Recording Mrs. Stables Deed we cannot allow, as she 
 would not pay it; alledging that as you paid no part of 
 the expence of drawing the Deed, you ought not to make 
 any charge for recording it, being generally the practise 
 when no agreement is made respecting it, that the cost is 
 divided between the Parties. You will find that the above 
 Ballance is nearly all due, as there is at least six Months 
 Interest to be added to the Acct. to the time when Mr. B. 
 died. 
 
 I flatter myself you will not think me unreasonable after 
 Thirteen years being Elaps d that I now ask you to pay 
 unto my Friend aforesaid a few Hundred Pounds towards 
 Discharging this heavy Debt, particularly as you cannot 
 forget the cause of a great part of it not being paid before 
 his death; for I well remember his mentioning it to me with 
 much confusion and regret. I shall hope to hear on Mr. 
 Carson s return that you have complied with my request, 
 and remain with respect, Madam, Your most obedt. Servt., 
 
 RICHD. NEAVE, JUNIOR. 
 
 Addressed: Mrs. Bancker, widow of Mr. Richard Bancker Deceas d, 
 living formerly in Hanover Square, New York: Honor d by Mr. Carson. 
 
 FROM WINTHROP SARGENT. 
 
 I thank you, my Dear Webb, for your polite friendly and 
 affectionate Favor, and shall (be assured) call on you upon 
 the first moment of my arrival. It will not be so soon as 
 I had intended, as I am under the Necessity of attending 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 3J7 
 
 the Ohio Meeting in Providence the first Wednesday of 
 March; from which place I will begin my Journey so that 
 you may expect me very soon after we have finished our 
 Business there, if the River be open. 
 
 I hope you will not forget to promote the Interests of 
 our Friend C t r, as A m g has resigned. I know 
 you are very capable of it, being form d for [torn] as well as 
 soft persuasion. Adieu, and believe me your affectionate 
 
 W. SARGENT. 
 
 I find amongst my Maps one with Col. Duer s name on it, 
 which leads me to suspect I omitted sending him one to 
 your care. How is it? 
 
 Wednesday, 2Oth of Feby. [1788], late at Night. 
 
 FROM SCHENCK AND VAN BUREN. 
 
 NORTH BRANCH, 28th February, 1788. 
 Sir: 
 
 Our Ab. Buren called at your lodgings at the hour ap 
 pointed, also a short time after, but did not find you in, 
 and being obliged to leave Town the next morning. [We] 
 are disappointed the Business was not arranged in order to 
 obtain a Deed. Wou d request you to send us a statement 
 of the Acct., that we may ascertain the Balance due you 
 per return of Capt. Voorhees. 
 
 We wish you to put the necessary papers in the hands of 
 Wm. Patterson, Esq., to enable him to draw us a Deed and 
 finally settle the Business; hope you will not subject us to 
 any delay. 
 
 We cannot think of paying any advance on the New York 
 
FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 money, as our express agreement was that the payments 
 shou d be made in the paper currency of New York, which 
 you agreed to. As soon as we receive the Deed shall give 
 you a draft on Messrs. Rynean & John Suydam, at a short 
 run, for the Balance. We are your Humble Servants, 
 
 SCHENCK & VAN BUREN. 
 
 Addressed: Samuel B. Webb, Esquire. 
 
 FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN, JUNIOR. 
 
 BOSTON, 6th March, 88. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 I want your kind assistance to procure Sea letters for the 
 Brigt. Yorick, Jonathan Caines, master, own d by William 
 Vans, Junior, of Salem, bound to any part of India. 
 
 My Friend Vans and I are speculating in a Voyage, and 
 as my name cannot assist him in disposing of his cargo, and 
 it may induce a large addition to my Taxes (which are, 
 God knows, large eno already) I am not known in the 
 matter, and beg you not to mention my name in the Affair. 
 Mr. Vans will himself be the Bearer of these Letters, and 
 if you can in your large Circle of Connections and acquaint 
 ance procure any other Letters of an introductory kind, 
 such as will be of service in the voyage, I will esteem it as a 
 particular favor. I know your Intrest with all the great 
 men, and you know how safely you may confide in any 
 recommendations you give Mr. Vans. Tis our inten 
 tion that the Brigt. shou d go to almost every part of 
 India, and from that circumstance she will most probably 
 be gone three years with a very respectable property, and 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 359 
 
 as Mr. Vans is already well acquainted in China and some 
 other parts of India where he has been, we are in hopes to 
 make some profitable Negotiations, and establish a house 
 respectable there and here. Nothing you know has this 
 Effect better than the recommendation of publick officers. 
 
 The Vessell will sail in all this month, or at farthest 
 1st April; her Cargo is only to take in. 
 
 Your kind and speedy attention therefore will be of 
 great consequence to, Dear Webb, your friend, &c. 
 
 JONA. FREEMAN, JUNIOR. 
 
 FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN, JUNIOR. 
 
 BOSTON, 23rd March, 88. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 In my last to you requesting Sea Letters, &c., I forgot to 
 mention Letters in particular to Coll. Fleury l at Isle de 
 France. From your personal acquaintance I presume you 
 will write it, and it may not be amiss to say to Gen. Knox 
 that the Mr. Vans, who brought him Letters from Colo. 
 Fleury last summer, is bound to the same port; if he has 
 any, will be proud to take them. 
 
 I know how influential your request may be, and will be 
 exceedingly oblig d to you for the trouble you take in pro 
 curing what I wish; and I hope I need not assure you 
 how much you may command any return that will be in 
 the power of your oblig d and affect. Friend & Humble 
 Servt., 
 
 JONA. FREEMAN, JUNIOR. 
 
 1 Francois Louis de Fleury, who rendered good service to the United 
 States in the Revolution. 
 
360 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM SAMUEL HODGDON. 
 
 NEW YORK, 3d April, 1788. 
 Sir: 
 
 At your request I relate the following conversation be 
 tween me and Mr. Morriss at General Knox s yesterday. 
 Mr. Morriss asked me whether I recollected receiving a 
 Letter containing a Number of Certificates, which was 
 forwarded by him from you. Whether any part of them 
 was your property, and whether I had advised you of the 
 receipt of them previous to my answer to his address. 
 
 To which I replied that I did receive the Letter with all 
 the Certificates which it ever contained; that I had no 
 knowledge of your having any interest in them, they being 
 sent from Mr. Joseph Barrell for similar purposes with 
 many that I had previously received; that being from the 
 proper documents I could not positively determine whether 
 I had advised you of their arrival previous to his Letter to 
 me; but that my usual mode of doing business embold 
 ened me to say that if any answer was necessary, it was 
 immediately given. These I think are all the facts that I 
 enumerated relative to the letter or business, and is all 
 that I know about it. I am, Sir, Your Most Obedient 
 Servant, 
 
 SAMUEL HODGDON. 
 
 Postscript. From circumstances produced from memory 
 I believe the Letter of the 27th of April was the first I wrote 
 to you on the business. 
 
 The letter aluded to I found on my Table, being brought 
 there when I was absent. The bearer of it I never knew. 
 
 SAMUEL HODGDON. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 361 
 
 FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN, JUNIOR. 
 
 BOSTON, ijth April, 1788. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 Yours of 30th March and 6th April found me confin d to 
 my Bed. The former induc d me to retain the Vessell 
 (which was then waiting and had been for a week for nothing 
 else but those letters) till the following Thursday, when 
 she put to sea, and I hope is now well on her voyage. 
 
 I hoped to send them this day to Mr. Vans by a vessell 
 which sailed to the same port, but she is gone, and I have 
 no hope of forwarding the letters now if I shou d obtain 
 them. Add to which it is Sunday, and no deposition or 
 affidavit cou d be taken, and to complete all, I am now 
 lifted out of Bed and wrap t in a Blanket without any 
 other covering, whilst I write this imperfect scroll, to 
 thank you for your trouble and assure you I am sincerely 
 yours, 
 
 JONA. FREEMAN, JUNIOR. 
 
 FROM HENRY IZARD. 
 
 SAVANNAH, 26th April, 1788. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 As I am told a vessel sails for Philadelphia tomorrow 
 morning, I take that opportunity of informing you of our 
 safe arrival after a passage of three weeks. I have not 
 yet had time to deliver your letters, but you may depend 
 upon it I shall make it my particular business to wait upon 
 Mr. Seagrove tomorrow. Your brother is out of town. 
 The tediousness of my passage will prevent my making any 
 stay here, and you may expect me in New York by the 
 
362 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 middle of May, and even till then appears almost an age. 
 You know what a powerful Magnet attracts me there. I 
 find that I am absolutely in love. You will hardly be able 
 to read this scroll, but the hurry of a public house in which 
 I have not been above half an hour, must plead my excuse. 
 Adieu, believe me to be with the utmost regard, Your most 
 sincere friend, HENRY IzARD. 1 
 
 FROM JONATHAN FREEMAN, JUNIOR. 
 
 BOSTON, nth May, 1788. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 I wrote last month in haste, being then under a Disagree 
 able confinement, but as I am much better at present, I 
 take the earliest oppt. to thank you more particularly for 
 your kind favors, with a cordiall wish that I may have it 
 in my power to return your kindness. 
 
 The Brigt. Yorick had that name alter d to the Cadet 
 and her head with an Officer of our Company in complete 
 uniform. This Mr. Vans was polite eno to get accom 
 plished without my knowledge, so that if you had obtain d 
 Letters for the Yorick they would have been useless. I 
 have to request the favor of you to send all the Letters of 
 Civility you was so kind as to offer,, particularly those to 
 Colo. Fleury, by any Vessell from your ports to the Isle of 
 France for Mr. William Vans, Junior, under cover to 
 Messrs. Jno. Monson & Co. Merchants at Bourbon; or if 
 no Oppo. from your port, will thank you to send them to me, 
 as in the course of next month I can send them. If you 
 
 1 Son of Ralph Izard, of South Carolina. His mother was Alice, 
 daughter of Peter and Elizabeth De Lancey, of Westchester County, 
 and granddaughter of Cadwallader Colden. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 363 
 
 have no chance before, you will do me essential service by 
 this transaction. 
 
 The Vessell having sail d as I wrote you before your last 
 came to hand, I coud not obtain an affidavit from the Capt. 
 or Mr. Vans who is ostensibly owner, but I can get a copy 
 of their oaths to the Naval Officer where the register was 
 taken from, and the Naval Officer s attestation, which if it 
 will answer, I will forward to you instantly on receipt of the 
 information. I hear with extreme concern that Mr. Jay s 
 life is in danger. The loss of so good a man as I heard him 
 represented to be, and so able a one as his writings demon 
 strate him to be, must affect the publick most sensibly. I 
 know how valuable such men are in society by their scarcity. 
 I hope to hear soon your State have rear d another pillar 
 to support the grand Building of Federal happiness. We 
 want only good System to make us an envie d Nation. 
 
 Dear Webb, let me hear from you soon, and believe me 
 ever sincerely, Your friend and Humbl Servant, 
 
 JONATHAN FREEMAN, JUNIOR. 
 
 Do write me if you have heard from Jack latterly, and 
 what he is about, &c. 
 
 FROM THOMAS LAWRENCE. 
 
 MORRIS VALE, 25th May, 1788. 
 My Dear Sir: 
 
 Permit me to take the liberty of reminding you of your 
 friendly and polite offer of procuring a Barrel of Shad for 
 me from your Brother. I mentioned to Mrs. Lawrence the 
 treat which you frequently gave me of them at your social 
 Breakfast Table, and we are anticipating with pleasure a 
 repast of the same kind this summer. I know your punctu- 
 
364 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 ality and politeness, and I should not have taken the Liberty 
 of reminding you of your promise on this occasion, but 
 from the knowledge that your attention is a little more 
 circumscribed by a favorite object. 
 
 I shall send my waggon to New Windsor the latter end 
 of next week, when you will oblige me by sending it there, 
 so that I may bring it from thence by that conveyance. 
 
 Mrs. Lawrence joins me in Compliments to you and be 
 lieve me, Sir, with sincerity, Yr. Frd. and Hum. Servt., 
 
 THO. LAWRENCE. 
 
 Direct the Shad for me at Morris Vale in Sussex, to the 
 care of Mr. Wm. Ellison at N. Windsor, and send it by the 
 N. Windsor Packet that comes every week from N. York. 
 
 Addressed : General Webb, Broadway, N. York. W. W. Morris, Esq. 
 
 FROM JOHN COZINE. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 My old Friend Mr. Cortlandt informs me, that he wrote 
 to you some time ago respecting a Demand that he has 
 against the Estate of the late Richd. Bancker. He is 
 anxious to have it settled in some way or other, and will be 
 content if you cannot conveniently raise the money to take 
 your Bond and Mortgage. This he expects you will comply 
 with. Please, Sir, to let me know your Resolution on this 
 subject, as soon as possible, that I may acquaint Mr. 
 Cortlandt therewith. I am with Respect your very hum 
 ble Servt, JNO. COZINE. 1 
 
 June 17, 1788. 
 
 1 Son of Balm Johnson Cozine "of the Out Ward of the city of New 
 York," on the Bloomingdale road. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 365 
 
 FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON. 
 
 MANOR LIVINGSTON, June 28, 1788. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 From the late rains Mr. P. Has been detained at the 
 Manor till this day, and now the roads will detain us some 
 what longer; for which reason I shall be prevented attend 
 ing the meeting of the Honorable Order of the Cincinnati, 
 as I must attend them to Lake George for perhaps the last 
 time of our meeting; but shall be with you as soon as possi 
 ble after my return, when I expect you will be able to re 
 turn with me in the new chair that I am to exchange for 
 my old one. See to this. Give my love to Mrs. Coventry 
 and Betsy. Tell them I long to see them. Adieu. Yours 
 sincerely, 
 
 HENRY LIVINGSTON. 
 
 Addressed: To Brigadier General Samuel B. Webb, Broadway, 
 New York. 
 
 FROM BENJAMIN CROOFOOT. 1 
 
 PALMERTOWN, July 2ist, 1788. 
 Sir: 
 
 I have Entred upon the Lot of which your honour gave 
 me a writen for, and have not as yet Payed you your Rent, 
 but that was oweing to my having had a Long fit of sick 
 ness. But Sir you need not bee unasey a bout it for I will 
 pay you soon after harvest. Mr. Palmer sent me word that 
 he had orders to Renter on the place which will bee a grate 
 Damage to mee Sir I will pay you your Rent yerly and had 
 payed you be fore now had I been well. Sir I expected to 
 
 1 A tenant on the Kayaderossares tract. 
 
366 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 seen your honour heer beef ore now to have given mee a 
 Lease and pray Sir send mee word wht you in tend to do as 
 soon as Posebell and so confideing in your Goodness I sub 
 scribe My self your honours varry humbel sarvent, 
 
 BENJ. CROOFOOT. 
 
 Addressed: To Ga ll Sam ll B. Webb. New York thes with care. 
 
 FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON. 
 
 MANOR LIVINGSTON, August n, 1788. 
 Dear General: 
 
 A few days since on my way to Salisbury I had the 
 pleasure of receiving your letter of the 3rd instant, which 
 is the only one I have received from you and from which 
 letter I am induced to believe that you did not receive mine 
 of the 29th June. 
 
 Not hearing from you I was under the necessity of get 
 ting my chair repaired at Albany. I have had an apron 
 made, a new carpet put in, and several other repairs done 
 to it which cost me 5. 10., so that my chair is now as good 
 as new; but notwithstanding that I will send it down by 
 the first sloop which sails from this quarter, and I think 
 in the exchange I ought to be allowed for the late repairs, 
 at least for the new apron, which was not put to the chair 
 when I bought it from Manley - - that is 5 5 /. But he ought 
 to consider of all the repairs I have done to it. I will give 
 him a reasonable odds, which odds you shall be the judge of, 
 provided the chair has been painted and varnished by Mr. 
 Barrow in Broad street, and it is in the form of a tub bot 
 tom, and as genteel a one as he could make, and he will 
 take refined Bar Iron for pay, which I will send down as 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 367 
 
 soon I know the amount of the odds which I am to give. 
 But money I have none, neither can I take it if money is 
 required. You will pardon me my dear friend for giving 
 you this trouble, and I shall consider this obligation as a 
 marked renewal of your kindness. 
 
 Our sloop is now down, and if my chair comes down in 
 time I wish you to send the new one up with her; if not in 
 time send it by the sloop which brings mine down, and 
 send the watch. I cannot come till fall; our furnace keeps 
 me employed. Would to God I could prevail on you to 
 come up and pass some time with me. Give my most 
 sincere love to Mrs. Qoventry] and Betsey, whom I beg 
 you will kindly remember me too. I thank you for the 
 respect and your kind wishes for my father; he desires 
 his best respects to you and Mr. Coventry s family. I am, 
 Dr. Webb, Your friend and Hbl. Servt., 
 
 HENRY LIVINGSTON. 
 
 Addressed: To General Samuel B. Webb, Broadway, New York. 
 
 FROM GULIAN VERPLANCK. 
 
 Monday Morning, [New York, August 18, 1788.] 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I was last week at Brunswick, and enquired of Mr. 
 [William] Patterson respecting the Business with Messrs. 
 Schenck and Van Buren. He informed me that the Con 
 veyance to them as Administrators would not be sufficient, 
 and therefore wished for a statement of the Title, the partic 
 ulars of which he has forgot, but remarks that they were 
 satisfactory to Him at the time of executing the Mortgage. 
 For your better satisfaction I wish you could make it con- 
 
368 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 venient to see Mr. Patterson, or at least make application 
 to Him. I am, Sir, with Esteem Your Humb. Servt., 
 
 G. VERPLANCK. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM WILLEMENT. 
 
 Mr. Willement presents his most respectfull Compli 
 ments to General Webb and requests he will indulge him 
 with the use of a fowling piece, powderhorn, &c., for to 
 morrow. The bearer will take charge of them. Mr. W. 
 recollects with pleasure and with thanks the polite offer 
 he received from General W. when he lived under the 
 same Roof with him, and is thereby encouraged to this 
 application. 
 
 HANOVER SQUARE, Sep. 10, 1788. 
 
 FROM JOHN CLARKE. 
 
 BOSTON, I October, 1788. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Knowing your politeness I take the liberty to request 
 your attention to the bearer of this letter, Mr. Noyes. He 
 is a very modest but very worthy man. He is on his way 
 to Charleston, where he resided before the war. If you 
 will show him your city, and give him any necessary infor 
 mation, the favour will be ever gratefully acknowledged by, 
 Sir, Your Humb. Servt. 
 
 JOHN CLARKE. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel Webb, New York. Hon d by Mr. 
 Noyes. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 369 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I was happy to hear accidentally, not by your letter, 
 that you had arrived safe to New York. I was in hopes 
 to have been favored with a line before this, but I can wait 
 no longer. I must write you and thank you for all your 
 late attention to my Affairs. I hope I shall do the needful 
 in due season to answer the expectation of my friends. 
 
 I wish to let you know my Eyes are better. I continue 
 using Mr. Post s means. Let Livingston send to David 
 Osborn for the Note as by the Accts. I delivd Osborn, 
 unless you are willing to take the Note of Osborn s. Do 
 as you think best. Write me per the first oppty. Stephen 
 Chester has not yet moved to his house. Jemmy McEvers 
 has recov d 1200 L[awful] M[one]y, or i6oo York of 
 Thos. Seymour. He has calPd on me. I have conversed 
 with him and shew d him the Rect. He says He will not 
 allow it, because it was given before the Death of his 
 father and we had no right to pay Charles. This will not 
 do for him; besides if it would, I think it would be un 
 generous. Let me beg you the very day or next morn 
 ing after to wait on Jemmy and examine the first entry of 
 Charles Book and his father s. The Rect. is dated June, 
 1768, for 100 on Charles, and Seventy pounds on his 
 Brother Jemmy, which sum has never been allowed. 
 Therefore, altho Charles is no body, yet the Seventy 
 pounds and Interest must now be allowed me, which I 
 hope He will do to you without trouble. Pray attend to 
 collect what evidence you can so soon as you receive this. 
 Write me fully. Say how de to Platt, the Lottonions, 1 
 
 1 The Lott family. 
 
370 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Haskell, and accept the most affectionate and sincere 
 thanks of yr. S[ister] W[ebb] for the flour. She is quite 
 anxious that she said so little to you about it. 
 
 So soon as you get the Money of Osborn remember the 
 Ale and Corks which we extremely want, but not to your 
 damage. It would go far in suppers. I have collected 
 some good wine, spirits and Brandy. When do you think 
 of going to Boston. It s most Heavenly sleighing with 
 us. 
 
 I have the rest of Stern s works done up for you, but 
 you must remember the needful. I am, Dear Br., Yrs 
 Sincerely, 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
 WETHD., Jany. nth, 1789. 
 
 FROM ABIGAIL WEBB. 
 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 Your favour of the i6th I this day received by the hand 
 of my Dear Miss Smith. I was extremely glad to see her, 
 and promise myself great pleasure from her visit, which I 
 shall make as agreable to her as I posibly can. I thank 
 you for the short but friendly letter, and will attend to the 
 contents. Mr. Webb left me this day to go to New Haven. 
 Shall send on your letter by the stage to morrow. All my 
 Brothers belonging to Wethersfield are with him, so that 
 we lead a still life at present, which I am not accustomed 
 to nor fond of. Why dont we hear from Major Webb? 
 I am impatient, and not a little anxious. I need not re 
 mind you what pleasure you will give us by transmiting 
 the earliest information you get of him. I shall soon write 
 to him and send to you to forward. He complain d of all 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 37! 
 
 his friends when he was last absent, that we neglected him. 
 The flour proved excellent. Accept my gratefull thanks. 
 I bless you every time I tast of it, and think of you with 
 affection much oftener. Tell Miss D[uyckinck] I long to 
 see her. My Love to her and to Miss Dunscomb. Is she 
 restored to health again? Do you see anything of Miss 
 Moore ? I can write no more, only to repeat how sincerely 
 and affectionately I am your friend and Sister, 
 
 A. WEBB. 
 
 Sally sits by me begs her Love may be sent you. 
 WETHERSFIELD Jany. 2ist, 1789. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Jany. 26th, 1789. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I wrote you from New Haven last week; then I had not 
 Reed, your last. This acknowledges the letter; but I 
 have not time to answer it now, only to tell you those you 
 call my Connecticut friends and say what you have hinted 
 are by no means friends. I realy believe I shall accom 
 plish what I have engaged with ease. 
 
 Perhaps they only mean the extremely difficult time of 
 collecting cash. Belinda is well. Smith is now at Boston. 
 He drove on. I was at New Haven. I have much to say, 
 but cannot now. Remain easy that nothing in my power 
 shall be wanting to do the needful. (I further add I am 
 not well pleas d with Humphrey s letter; but this and all 
 other things must remain for the present.) Believe me, 
 Dear Brother, Yr. Most afft. Friend, 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
372 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I will thank you to put the letter for Mrs. Greene on 
 Board the first vessel for Georgia; or if none going soon, 
 to get Mr. Griffin or some other of my friends to Frank it, 
 and put in the Post Office. 
 
 I intended to have come over in the sleigh this evening, 
 but my cold makes me almost sick. Harriet is quite un 
 well. I wish you a good journey and am, Dr. Sir, Yours, 
 
 J. WADSWORTH. 
 
 Sunday Evg. [HARTFORD, February 8, 1789.] 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHD. Feby. igth, 1789. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Your s of the i6th inst. lies before me. I am sorry Bell s 
 letters are not arrived. She is anxious, as she fears her 
 Mother and Family will be on her Acct. I wish you would 
 call on Doct. Jones for me and get a Copy of Livingston s 
 Demand. Bailey s I have not yet got. Where is Brother 
 Jack s Evidences from Georgia about Simpson? Unless I 
 hear from Him and you, it will not be prudent for me to 
 try the affair. Pray did I thro mistake leave any of my 
 Papers at your House ? I cant find any of Oliver Elsworth s 
 Papers. Do the needful about Sam May, as I am about 
 settling with him. So with Jos. Stillman. As to Mr. 
 McEvers, he must allow you the Rect., for his father was 
 ill a long time with the Consumption during that time 
 Charles did his business. Stephen Chester has moved 
 into his House and I believe does to satisfaction in his 
 office. I hope Burr will push the collecting for me. I 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 373 
 
 observe what you say about Col. Chester. He s now at 
 Norwich with his wife. Neither He or Root will come on. 
 They say Sturgis and Wadsworth belong to the old and to 
 the new, and can go with credit and not be disgraced. I 
 have pusht the affair, and so have others. Chester be 
 haved well (but I find many of Chester s friends say it s 
 too late; it looks as if he only ment to show himself.) 
 About the necessary preparation of the old from P , I 
 am anxious to have enough by me and in due season. Have 
 you got your Dictionary? What may I depend on if you 
 get it? Do it soon. Aid and assist me for a little while, 
 and I trust all will be well. Jo Bull came in and Testified 
 about Beekman as you did, and so did others. The Court 
 behaved well; in particular T - S .- 1 He was a mind 
 to take off half. He said He knew how people had suffer d. 
 Adieu. Adieu. Yours sincerely, 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 Mrs. W[ebb], Bel and Lydia, all desire to be rememd. 
 They are drinkg. Porter. 
 
 I thank you for the papers, but have no time to read. 
 Bel is reading off them as tho they were a new novel. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Broadway, No. 25. New 
 York. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 Qth March, 1789. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I have to tell you Simpson s affair is continued untill 
 September. I fear I have lost a good oppty., as Simpson 
 cou d not have been prepar d; but as you and Brother 
 
 1 Thomas Seymour? 
 
374 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Jack was both absent, I consented to have it put off. But 
 September will soon be here, and I must then be fully 
 ready to fight the battle. Capt. Curtiss got home Satur 
 day evening, left the Sloop at Sachem s head in port of 
 Gilford. So soon as the river opens he will sail for the 
 West Indies. I hope you have put the Ale on board of 
 him. Curtiss tells me you was busy electioneering, but 
 can tell me no news. Colo. Chester is just gone from here. 
 He was disappointed that Curtiss brot. no news who is 
 President, and who is vice president. What is all your 
 bustle about? Pray write by the first Boat bound to 
 Georgia some good advice to Brother Jack. Let him be 
 cool and slow to anger. He s highly vexed with Mrs. 
 G[reene], D[enny], Wadsfworth and] Mill[er]. He writes 
 me with warmth agst. them. The Gent, waitg. 
 
 I will do all in my power to make the payment. Stand 
 by yr. affectionate 
 
 WEBB. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, New York. 
 
 To DON DIEGO DE 
 
 General Webb presents his most respectful compliments 
 to Don Diego de Guardoqui, informs him he has call d 
 three times this afternoon and evening in hopes of seeing 
 him. Mr. Guardoqui being from home, General Webb 
 begs leave to inform him that he has it in charge from a 
 Committee of Congress to notify him that the Ceremonial 
 of the formal reception of the President of the United 
 States will take place tomorrow at 12 o clock, that a seat 
 
 1 Diplomatic representative of Spain in the United States. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 375 
 
 is provided for his accommodation, and to signify to him 
 that no precedence of seats is intended, and that no salu 
 tation is expected from him on his entrance into or depar 
 ture from the Senate Chamber. The proceedings of the 
 Committees of both Houses of Congress are enclosed. 
 
 General Webb begs leave to inform Mr. Guardoqui the 
 business was not completed untill past 3 o clock this day, 
 which is the cause of his not receiving earlier notice. 
 
 Wednesday Even g. 10 o clock 29th April, 1789. 
 
 Endorsement: Copy of a note to Don Diego D. Guardoqui re 
 specting the Inauguration of the President Geo. Washington. New 
 York, zgth April, 1789. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 Why do you neglect writing me? Was you here you 
 would pity and love me. Forsake me not because matters 
 do not go right with me. Formerly you used to be very 
 attentive and acquainted me of the occurrences that passed 
 within your knowledge to amuse, divert and please me. 
 Now, when you can render me essential service, you wholly 
 neglect me. Have you the feelings for me that I have 
 always had for you ? Consider and love me still. Let me 
 hear what is passing in the busy world. When may I ex 
 pect Barrell here? I wish you every blessing and am most 
 sincerely Yr Afft Br., 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 WETHD. May 3ist, 1789. 
 
 Monsr. St John pass d in the stage. I was out by Ches 
 ter s house and saw him yesterday. Must I notice him? 
 
376 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Sally Barrell, Mrs. W[ebb] and the circle desired to be 
 remembered to you. Bill is at Colo. Wadsworth s. Was 
 Smith pleased with his visit at Weathersfield? Say how 
 de to Mr. Bogart and family [and] Mrs. Lott and family. 
 Sister Chester expects to go in a few days with her daughter 
 and Miss Bull for Bethlem. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Broadway No. 25, New 
 York Citv. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 My Dear Brother: WETHERSFIELD, [June, 1789.] 
 
 I did not intend to have troubled you or any of my 
 friends, let my troubles be what they woud; yet when I 
 have got into troubles so unexpectedly, so ungenerously, 
 and upon reflection find the consequences so serious, I can t 
 help but paint them in part to you. As for myself I care 
 but little; yet [for] my dear Partner and a dear little flock 
 of seven children, my heart is grieved beyond painting or 
 possibility of description. J. Barrell was so hurt and so 
 affected that he left us this morng at 5 o clock. He thinks 
 that as Alsop had attached and both Alsop and Seymour 
 gave out they was determined to try the event of their 
 attachment on real property, that taking my person was 
 ungenerous. Give me leave to say you cant think what I 
 undergo. All is hid from my good Mrs. Wfebb]. Tho she 
 has yet bore all with fortitude and seeming cheerfulness, 
 yet I dread to tell her that a few days part us. I can t 
 muster resolution enough to tell her. Barrell will not 
 permit it. He s confident Alsop is too good a man; but 
 yet when he reflects upon King, it distresses him for me. 
 For myself I expect to go. It will derange all preparations 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 377 
 
 of every kind. He will defeat himself and all the rest, for 
 my going to jail shuts up my books, brings my person to 
 exposure of every debtor that never thot. of attachment 
 before, but will now, for fear Alsop should get some advan 
 tage. I was doing better for my creditors than my friend 
 coud think of. The scarcity of grain in the country has 
 bjoke every link in the change, and the country people 
 can not pay untill fall. This I was arranging nobly and 
 should have fullfill d my engagements. 
 
 But this conduct will ruin everything; for at best it will 
 give every puppy leave to attach, altho he engaged other 
 ways when he finds others is, cost and vexation, delay and 
 disappointments. Perhaps he will take the half of the 
 distillery appraised or rather agreed for if clear. What 
 can he expect by my going to jail? He thinks how as we 
 encouraged him at first of full pay. Let him reflect that 
 I was to give and secure annual payments for the half of 
 Mrs. A[lsop s] distillery 4o L. My. a year. Mrs. S. and 
 Mrs. A[lsop] prevented after solemn agremt. Said 40 was 
 nothing to the value. If that was true, what must half 
 the work, our property, be worth? More than enough to 
 pay Mr. A[lsop]. Perhaps he will take them. Any how 
 does he wish but neighbors fair? We have never deceiv d 
 him. The alteration of the times is all. But if I was to 
 see him I doubt not I can convince him of his duty. He 
 will by puting me to jail defeat himself and all my prospects. 
 Monday next I go. Now I have to say tho Mrs. W[ebb] 
 has behaved so well, she will not be able to part with me to 
 jail. It will I find be too much for her feeble frame. I 
 dare not tell her yet, as I expect no mercy from K[ing]. I 
 ought. Perhaps Jo. Bull can convince him. He ruins his 
 own design. (Suspense is the Devil.) Write me in due 
 
378 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 season. I cant look over this letter, corect it yourself. 
 Adieu, adieu. Let all be a secret in York. If settled as 
 my debtors woud like to know I settled low in order to 
 thro me out of Interest. Indeed, Br. Sam, was I to give 
 all up, it would disappoint creditors, debtors, and every 
 one. My plan was best for both. This I coud have ac 
 complished and done well. At least if nothing can be 
 done, delay my imprisonment untill I meet him or some 
 way. Trouble not yourself too much, I will be resign d 
 to the worst of fate. If I go to jail come not to see me. I 
 wish to be forgot. Qhester] family and ours is well. 
 Adieu. Adieu. 
 
 Br. Jack has reed, yr letter by Pease. My Dear, Dear 
 Mrs. W[ebb], her delicacy of going to the prison to see me. 
 Its Hellish. Keep all sacred if I do not go to jail, but I 
 expect to go. Yet while there s Life there is some hopes. 
 He can at least be polite enough to put it off for me to come 
 to New York. Perhaps I coud make some agreement 
 with him that woud be advantageous to both. If I go he 
 puts me in power of others, that may as I have repeatedly 
 said to himself and me. Beekman Son and Goold has the 
 same Seymour [torn]. So much depends on Aflsop] him 
 self --but I have said enough. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 6th June, 1789. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 This will be handed you by Mr. Thos. Chester 1 who 
 comes to see New York. Any civilities shewn him will be 
 
 L The first post-office at Wethersfield was established in April, 1794, 
 with Thomas Chester as postmaster. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 379 
 
 done to a worthy good man. He will let you know the 
 foolish and horrid situation I am in on the I7th inst. 
 destin d for jail, unless orders from our late worthy friend 
 Alsop prevents. I had so settled my country debts that 
 I suppose I was at liberty to go out freely when I pleas d, as 
 nothing coud be against me but Beekman Son & Goold 
 and Jno. Alsop. And as they had attached property, I 
 did not know that when they got out execution they woud 
 let go their estate and levy on my person. But yesterday 
 I road to Hartford with Mr. Barrell, and after being at 
 Bull s a short time the officer took me one side with much 
 civility and delicacy, and told me had positive orders to 
 levy Miller alias Jno. Alsop s execution on my body. I 
 can t paint to you my distress. Read my letter to Alsop, 
 seal it, and Chester will deliver it. I wish if possible to 
 have the affair accommodated without noise or trouble. 
 Indeed I wish it may be a secret if possible, that is if its 
 settled, as it will disgrace me much amongst my debtors. 
 For I was arranging matters by giving them liberty to wait 
 untill their crops came off the ground to make remittances 
 this fall, and so from time to time I expected them to for 
 ward payment to my mind, and had prepared matters 
 much more to my mind than I was affraid off. This blow 
 will make my Book Debtors hang back and not give Notes, 
 for fear of their being sold. In short, unless Alsop will 
 release me from the jail, I must go, and there I wish not 
 to see my friends or foes untill I may so arrange matters 
 as to leave this part of the country for some retir d place 
 of rest. But my Family, there is the difficulty. What is 
 done for me must be done so that I may give an answer 
 next Saturday evening, for next Monday I am to deliver 
 myself to the officer. I am sorry to give so many of my 
 
380 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 friends trouble and anxiety. I feel it most sensibly. I 
 wish I may be able to return their gratitude some way 
 most amply and full. I am, Dear Saml., Yours sincerely, 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
 There is none in town know of my situation except Jack, 
 Mr. Barrell and the Chesters. Our families are quite 
 ignorant. It s a serious matter. The horrid close walls 
 already begin to appear to me, but I can cheerfully resign 
 to fate, and to be lost to the world if my family cou d be 
 happy. 
 
 I am obliged to appear cheerfull under the greatest 
 cloud. But I will be the Philosopher. 
 
 My Brother Jack s attention and feeling for [me] unmans 
 me. I dread the telling of it to Mrs. W[ebb]. I hope to 
 God Mr. Alsop will see his own interest, but really I do 
 not expect it, as King is there. I must prepare for the 
 worst. Shou d anything be done favorably, let it all be 
 Sub Rosa to the rest of the world. Be cool and calm (let 
 it not ruffle you shou d nothing be done.) Perhaps all 
 may be for the best; but it appears to me almost ruinous, 
 for it s but a short time and all book debts will be outlaw d 
 and much and most all lies in that situation. I am almost 
 distracted when I think seriously what a hellish condition 
 this rideing out to Drink Tea at Wadsworth s has brot me 
 to. But why do I trouble you? I will submit to the 
 worst that can come. Yet its my duty to prevent going 
 to one of our Horrid Castles. Was it like N. Y., and the 
 same liberality shewn, it wou d be something; but ours is 
 as bad as immagination can paint it. Adieu. Adieu. Yrs 
 Sincerely, J. WEBB. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Broadway No. 25, New 
 York. Per Thomas Chester, Esq. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 381 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Sunday, yth June, 1789. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 We arriv d here on Thursday after an agreeable journey. 
 The first day we dined with Aunt Polly, who gave us an 
 agreeable reception and a very pretty dinner. This place 
 is very disagreeable, particularly] at this period, as you 
 will find by my brother s letter. What will be the event 
 God only knows. I think should he be oblig d to leave 
 his family, it will ruin him and injure his creditors; for 
 two years from this all Book debts are outlaw d, and should 
 he only be confin d for one day, it will prevent his settling 
 any of his accounts. In short tho its extremely disagree 
 able to you to interfear, yet I think his and family s situa 
 tion demand our immediate attention. I shall write you 
 in a few days again. I must request you to send me my 
 saddle by young Mr. Barrell, and pay for the horse hire 
 on Long Island. You will find my coat at Mr. Atkinspn s. 
 I will take it as a particular favor if you will send to the 
 packet that arriv d from Georgia for letters. I expect 
 some mony also. Since I left you I think I was told that 
 Major Berrjan owes a considerable sum of mony to Turner. 1 
 Perhaps should you see him you may save some mony, but 
 you must not take his note. A note or bonds are not 
 worth much to the southard. This will be handed you 
 by Thomas Chester, Esqr. who accompanys his sister and 
 niece. Write me by every opportunity; it will in some 
 degree palliate for the disagreeables of this place. Remem 
 ber me to all friends and believe me to be with sincere 
 Esteem your Friend and Brother, 
 
 JOHN. 
 
 1 Major George Turner. 
 
382 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 Sunday Evening, I4th June, 1789. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 This acknowledges your long affectionate letter of the 
 nth Instant. I am and I am not disappointed. Some 
 wrong head had injur d me with Mr. Alsop. I feel for my 
 creditors and my family; for myself was I alone I woud 
 not value it. Mr. Alsop and Mr. K[ing] will reflect when 
 its too late that they have been misinform d of cause and 
 taken ill advice. Make yourself easy a Jail is not so 
 frightful (by [but] my dear Mrs. W.) I have unfolded the 
 whole to her; she is wretched enough; altho she has born 
 every thing else, this last will be too heavy for her delicate 
 frame. Good God, who cou d have thought this would 
 have ever happen to one of our family. Brother Jack 
 Webb and Chester both behave to a charm. Mr. Deming 
 has my most sincere thanks for his feelings and polite be 
 havior. My creditors must thank Mr. A[lsop] or rather 
 Mr. K[ing] for all their disappointments. Its impossible 
 so good a man as Mr. A[lsop] always has been shoud behave 
 so unguarded to his own interest and the interest of his 
 particular friends. I am prepared for the worst that can 
 happen. Adieu. Adieu. I am sincerely Yrs., 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
 I think it best to keep all secret untill I am realy gone to 
 Jail. Then all will be ruin. The law of limitation on 
 book debts, Notes, Officers, Dead persons accts, delays 
 and cost, woud ruin the King s revenue. (I shall wish for 
 to be thought no more of). What a friendship I have had 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 383 
 
 for Mr. A[lsop]. How I felt for his daughter when a pris 
 oner at Millford, but I have done. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, No. 25 Broadway New York. 
 Per Stage. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Tuesday Evening, n o clock. 
 
 June 1 6th, 1789. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I am this moment returned from Hartford. I road over 
 this evening with Colo. Chester to see Seymour, and see 
 what coud be done. Alsop s letter determined and positive 
 against doing anything, but full and ample security. We 
 found Mr. Seymour abed being unwell; but he has agreed 
 to come over and dine with us tomorrow. I think be 
 tween you and me there will a suspension of fourteen or 
 fifteen days. I am chagrined and mortified that I shoud 
 give so many of my friends trouble, anxiety, and uneasiness, 
 on my acct. Poor Mrs. W[ebb] ! When I paint to you her 
 feelings when I first told her of the affair it will distress you. 
 Such a sigh, such a groan! Oh! Mr. W. it must not be. 
 She had rather take me and her children by the hand and 
 go out of doors and leave all and seek our fortunes. Leave 
 the rest untill we meet, for its too new to repeat at present. 
 Dear amiable partner, too sensibly does she feel for me; all 
 her anxiety is on my acct. For myself I woud not care a 
 rush; its for her, her dear children (which I believe are 
 pleasing even to all their acquaintance). My Dear Brother 
 and Sisters ! Reflection that they feel so much touches me 
 
384 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 beyond description. Colo. Chester thinks Aflsop] has be 
 haved out of character. He told Mitch[ell], told me, and 
 has told a number, he did not wish or woud take my person. 
 Barrell is surprised; first blame[d] me for exposing myself; 
 on hearing of the facts, did not censure me. Keep all 
 your distress within due bounds of the circle of creditors. 
 Its all a secret here, and I believe will remain so, if I adjust 
 and settle as I yet expect. Will my comeing to York for a 
 day or two be of any service to make A[lsop] hear to reason, 
 and to convince him of his own good? After all Goal is 
 prefferable to let them injure my other generous creditors 
 or my family. K[ing] and A[lsop] mistake if they think 
 to frighten me so as to lower my respect for myself or family. 
 I will do honorably and do justly. Pray write me fully by 
 the return of the post freely. My head and heart ache. I 
 believe you ll think this letter proves it. All are gone to 
 bed. I am realy fatigued, stupid and dull after my ride to 
 Hartford. Jack is gone to bed, Jo is, Barrell, and indeed 
 all the family. Advise me freely and fully. Richd. Bacon 
 leaves this place early in the morng. by water for York. 
 He knows nothing of my affairs, nor is it best any shoud 
 but what does. What says Belinda Smith? Tell Sister 
 Betsy her family at home is well. The town is much as she 
 left it. No death losses or crosses in her family since she 
 left the town. Connecticut is more distressed for bread 
 corn than I ever knew, on acct. of shipg. too much abroad 
 and the crops of last year being cut off. Let me know 
 your price current. Make yourself as happy as possible. 
 Shoud the worst come to the worst I will endeavour right 
 shall rule my actions, and I will be resigned. My eyes are 
 almost clos d. Adieu. Yrs Sincerely, 
 
 W. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 385 
 
 Yours of the I4th I have just found was reed, by Mrs. 
 W[ebb]. Accept my thanks. She is asleep, or woud 
 desire to be remembd. 
 
 In Hartford & Wethersfield: Wheat 8/ Rye 5/3. 5/6 
 Indian Corn \/ @ 4/4 Buckwheat 2/10 Oats i/io 
 Potatoes 2/6 3/6 Flour seven dollars per barl. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, June i8th, 1789. 
 Thursday Evening. 
 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Yours of the I4th instant I have received, but am dis 
 appointed at not receiving one by this Eveng. stage. The 
 Driver tells me he enquired particularly at the Mid[dle- 
 town] mail. However as I know you must be anxious I 
 write you in full hopes this will arrive safe and releave 
 your great anxiety for yet a little while. According to 
 your advice Brother Jack at different times acquainted 
 my dear, dear, amiable Mrs. W[ebb] with the whole affair, 
 and I shew her the letters. The prospect [is] as gloomy as 
 it was; guess everything, it cant be painted. Her distress 
 was beyond everything. As to property, of no value in her 
 mind; but the good Colo. Chester has so managed the 
 affair and given bonds, that the officer has liberated me 
 from Jail untill the iyth of July, in full hopes the obstinate 
 creditor will hear to reason, and some settlement take place. 
 Now the delicacy is so great that I feel under every obliga 
 tion to Chester. I ought to go to New York, or send some 
 trusty person that will attend [to] the business. I cant 
 but think I can convince my friends and creditors that I 
 am doing all in my power for their interest. Yet reflect, 
 
386 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 if any other creditor should stop me either in New York, 
 or indeed any other county besides Hartford, it would 
 give Alsop an advantage. 
 
 Therefore if I come I must go and come in safety, or all 
 is ruined. This I think can be done. Write me fully that 
 I may know how to conduct. There is time enough yet, 
 tho something ought to be done immediately, as it is not 
 good to put off to the last. Amidst all my troubles how 
 fortunate I ought to think myself that Brother Jack is 
 here. He hardly lets me breath for myself, he s so atten 
 tive to my distresses. Mrs. W[ebb], thank Heaven, is 
 better since the liberation. It wore her out with the young 
 dear lambs being almost all down with the meazles. It s 
 a secret here only known to three or four. I wish this may 
 be the case with you. Heaven grant I may fall on some 
 happy commodation. A[lsop] must come in, for I will 
 stand by the other creditors that have behaved so well, 
 and as gloomy and horrid as the thought is, Jail is prefer 
 able to be thot doing wrong. I little thot I should ever 
 feel the heavy hand I now feel from a Yorker. Bacon 
 knows nothing of this or is worth while. He has a com 
 mon chair for Mrs. Bogart which I promised to send her. 
 I could not get it painted to my mind. Please to have [it] 
 first finely painted green, and presented to her in my name. 
 They are all well at Colo. Chester s. I am, Dear Brother, 
 Avith the most feeling gratitude for your attention to my 
 affairs, Yours sincerely, 
 
 W. 
 
 You ll observe this letter is for your advice about my 
 comeing or sending. Brother Jack says he should have 
 written you, but he feels embarrassed on my acct., and as 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 387 
 
 I write it will answer. His and my state of suspense is 
 disagreeable. Write me fully as possible. Brother Jack 
 stays by me untill something more is determined. He 
 expects his vessel in about ten days. Nat. Barrell is yet 
 with us. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Broadway No 25, New York. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, June 21, 1789. 
 Sunday Evening. 
 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 Yours of the i8th lies before me. I am pleasd with Mr. 
 Denning s attention, but cannot acct. for Mr. A[lsop s] 
 conduct. Why is he so obstinate to the unfortunate? 
 
 I am amazeingly disappointed, chagrin d and hurt. I 
 had conceived the highest oppinion of his feeling, humane, 
 benevolent heart. No, his letter to Seymour I do not 
 believe is different from his conversation to you; it stops 
 all settlements. My situation is disagreeable enough; it s 
 a continual state of suspense. Seymour, [or] rather Dodd 
 the officer, has further allow d me, as I wrote you last, 
 untill the iyth of July to endeavor a settlement. Now I 
 wait for your advice, whether to come on myself, or send 
 a hand to endeavour to soften the heart of Alsop. Indeed 
 I have, between ourselves, thot of Joseph Bull s going on 
 for me. He has much the confidence of the Yorkers, has 
 negotiated well for himself and several friends. He s 
 perfectly my friend, between you and me. I suppose I 
 could do best myself, but is there not some danger of my 
 comeing? Being taken out of the County of Hartford, 
 so as to prevent my being here on the iyth July, would 
 
388 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 make my friend Colo. Chester liable, which I would not do 
 for the world. 
 
 I am embarrassed. I could bear all the cursed misfor 
 tunes of life want [were not] it for my Dear Mrs. Wfebb] 
 and children, and I might add, my brothers and sisters. 
 For myself I could be resigned to fate. All remains here a 
 secret, and will unless some one writes it from New York. 
 There was no letter from you post before last. Do not 
 fail me untill something is done. Colo. Chester is much 
 obliged to you for mentioning his wife; it s all the source 
 he hears from her. He wishes much for her, feels like a 
 widower. I am, dear Brother, Yr sincere and affectionate 
 Brother, 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 Brother Jack stays by me and ready to do all in his 
 power. He supposes its not necessary for him to write 
 per every opportunity. 
 
 Tell our friend Denning, as disagreeable as a jail is, I 
 hardly believe I shall do anything that he and my other 
 creditors does not approve. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 26th Friday, June 1789. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I have sat down several times to write, but when I wrote 
 my spirits were such that on a second reading I destroyed 
 them. Leaving this tomorrow for Coalchester to continue 
 there till Monday, I thought it my duty as well as inclina 
 tion to inform you that I have advised our brother to em 
 ploy Jos. Bull to try to negotiate his matter with Alsop. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 389 
 
 For its my candid opinion that should he be obliged to go 
 to [New York], it will boath ruin him and prevent his ever 
 paying his creditors; for no one will settle with him when 
 he is there. Since my return he has been constantly clos 
 ing the accts., and arranging his matters so as to close them, 
 which I have not a doubt he would, if they would let him be 
 unmolested. Why would any person try to injure him 
 and family when he is doing every thing to benefit those 
 he owes? I wish to God Alsop may see his own interest. 
 Should he study that he would not drive the man who has 
 served him to ruin. He is by no means necessitated; was 
 he, that might be some excuse. I am sure you will do 
 every thing in your power. I wish you would write me 
 fully what you think on this plan. I have received letters 
 today from my vessell in the Cape. She has come to very 
 bad markets. I expect her next week, after which I shall 
 be at leisure, when I shall be able to follow any plan you 
 have. I expect it [will] be fourteen or fifteen days before 
 I can leave this. Let me request you to speak to our 
 friend Major Berrian respecting a small order he accepted 
 from Thomas Collier, Esq., for twenty pounds sterling. I 
 also expect in the first vessell from Georgia a few Hhd. 
 tobacco. Should it arrive be good enough to order it sold 
 and send the money to me. 
 
 Mrs. Chester has returned and speaks very much of your 
 attention to her. She is much pleased with her jaunt. I 
 have a vast deal to say to you, but that must be referred 
 till I have the pleasure of seeing you. Nothing but neces 
 sity would send me to Coalchester. Please to remember 
 me to all friends, and believe me to be your Affectionate 
 Brother, JOHN. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, New York. 
 
390 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM ELIHU CHAUNCEY GOODRICH. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Yours with its enclosure to Doctr. W. V. W. 1 came safe 
 and was safely handed with the small bundle. 
 
 This encloses one to you directed. All friends as usual. 
 Respecting Nankeens I shall give you information by our 
 friend Jacob R. Van Rensselaer, who will be with you next 
 week. Come and see your friends and yours, etc., 
 
 ELIHU CHAUNCEY GOODRICH. 
 
 CLAVERACK, 26th June, 1789. 
 
 Addressed: Gen l Samuel B. Webb, Broadway, New York. Free. 
 Elihu Chauncey Goodrich. 
 
 JOSEPH WEBB TO JAMES SEAGROVE. 
 
 Dear Seagrove: 
 
 I am again in New York on the old business, settling 
 with d m d hard obstinate creditors the worst of all 
 business under Heaven. Little thought I that we should 
 either of us be so harrassed. God knows I do not think 
 either of us deserve it, but fate has ordered it and we must 
 submit. 
 
 As to the House of McEvers & Co, it s in a singular situa 
 tion. No one to receive or give orders, yet many different 
 agents, committees, and the Devil knows not what, all 
 ready and willing to receive, but as I said before, paddy 
 like none loves to receive, nor is it yet determined by law 
 who shall receive. I am vext with my cruel situation. 
 The War has fell most cruelly on those who had outstand 
 ing debts. There is no such thing as collection; it s almost 
 
 1 W. Vrooman Wimple. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 39! 
 
 out of the question. I have been round the town, and the 
 whole face of this city seems changed; most of our old 
 friends and acquaintances departed, new faces, such as 
 Londoners, Irishmen and Scotchmen. However I hope it 
 possible to close with my creditors at this time some how 
 or somehow. I wish sometimes I had left my country. 
 This would be hard after the amazeing run of business I 
 have had and done, the agreeable connections I have formed, 
 the beautiful little town I am settled down in. There I can 
 be one of the first. If I go away God knows what may hap 
 pen; besides my Dear Amiable Mrs. Webb and seven 
 children. At Wethersfield our schools are now perhaps 
 equal to any upon the continent for Masters or Misses, as 
 Mrs. Green can tell you; and they are much improved 
 since she left us. Between us you Southern gentlemen 
 would all do much better to send to Wethersfield for their 
 children s education than anywhere else that I know of. 
 My little Sally makes me think I am [an] old fellow. 
 
 By the way, pray, my dear Seagrove, let me ask you for a 
 long circumstantial letter about the fray of Miller and Jack. 
 Jack is at times imprudent, but after all no one possesses a 
 better heart He is extremely hurt you should be out with 
 him; its a misunderstanding some way I wish explained. 
 I declare solemnly before he left me I never with all his 
 imprudences heard him speak a hard word either of you or 
 Mrs. S[eagrove], but always the reverse way. I may go 
 farther and say all his letters from Georgia spoke highly in 
 favor of Mrs. Seagrove, saying she was like his sister Webb, 
 who he adores. Now all these put together make me con 
 fident there is some wretched misinformation and misunder 
 standing which may easily through your goodness of heart 
 and benevolence all be put to rights. 
 
392 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 I received your letter and have done the needful as to 
 saying all in my power not only to our Representative], 
 but to others. So has Sam B. and several other of your 
 friends. Henry Livingston has this moment come in to 
 see me and asked who I was writing to. I told him you. 
 He begged me to say God bless you, and tell you he was 
 doing the needful and would push it. Sam Webb says 
 there is no less than twenty applying for the very post on 
 the list to the President. Write me every oppty., and 
 should it be convenient some of your flower seeds, shrubs, 
 or something in this way, would not come amiss in the 
 pleasant garden of your Friend Webb. I have also to 
 make another request, viz that you would collect me some 
 respectable evidences that Jona. Simpson was in Georgia 
 with the enemies. That he took an active part and fol 
 lowed the British Army. The evidence must be sworn to 
 before a magistrate, and sealed up directed to the Superior 
 Court in Hartford in Connecticut. 
 
 I am, Dear Jemmy, wishing you every happiness Your 
 affectionate friend, 
 
 JOS. W T EBB. 
 NEW YORK, July 8th, 1789 
 at Mrs. Frances Inn. 
 
 Should the Dear Mrs. G[reene] not be from Georgia, say 
 how de to her, that all her Weth[ersfiel]d friends are well. 
 Lathrop yet keeps the Misses school. Mrs. W[ebb] WTOte 
 her a few days before I left home. Miss Betsy Chester 
 [and] Miss Bull are at Bethlem, left there a few days since 
 by Mrs. Jack Chester and Thos. If you have any com 
 mands this way I shall be happy to serve you. 
 
 Addressed: James Seagrove, Esq., Savannah, Georgia. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 393 
 
 FROM KILLIAN K. VAN RENSSELAER 
 
 My D. Friend: 
 
 The stage driver informed me that he had put a letter in 
 the post office for me from you. This information I did 
 not receive till this afternoon. I called at the office this 
 evening and the Post Master was absent. I know not the 
 contents of your letter, but I will attend to it in the morn 
 ing. Goodrich has not received his examination, and I am 
 fearful it will not take place till the last of the week. My 
 business I will accomplish tomorrow, but I shall be in duty 
 bound to attend to Goodrich, and wait until he gets his 
 examination. 
 
 Pray dont leave Claverack till after my return, which will 
 be on Thursday or Friday. I hope you have taken posses 
 sion of one of my rooms or all. My love to the dear girls. 
 Yours in great haste, 
 
 K. K. V. R. 
 
 July 29th, 1789. 
 
 LEWIS S TAVERN. Wednesday Evg 9 o clock. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel Webb, Claverack. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFJELD, 3rd August, 1789. 
 
 Sunday Evening. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I have this moment returned from Litchfield, where I 
 have had a most delightful ride. I spent this afternoon 
 with Trumbull. He thinks it will be well for you to be 
 here at my trial with Simpson. He thinks he can keep it 
 off a few days for your arrival. 
 
394 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Brother Jack is at Salisbury. I was in some hopes to 
 have met him, but my deranged affairs would not suffer. 
 I expect him home tomorrow. Mrs. Green is not arrived. 
 Remember any evidence you get of Simpson s being 
 within the lines at London, Halifax, Quebec, New York or 
 Georgia, will be all of sevice. Remember the other neces 
 sary that we have chatted about. Tell my friends Strong, 
 Denny, Vanhorn, I shall make no other offer to Alsop. I 
 shall guard the property in my hands for our mutual benefit, 
 and will do the honorable part as far as my abilities will 
 allow. I am most sincerely yours, 
 
 J. W. 
 
 Bacon will call and pay Browers. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Tuesday Evening, [August u(?), 1789.] 
 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I have nothing new to write you yet as my affairs are 
 situated. I suppose it will please you to find me with my 
 family, and that we make ourselves as happy as we can. 
 Tomorrow or next day I go for Litchfield; but I go in one 
 day and return the next, ready to receive your letters. As 
 to Alsop make yourself easy. I trust all will be well, tho 
 I rather expect to go to prison, but tell my creditors I have 
 made up my mind. I shall make no further offers. I hope 
 you will not forget me about the Congress M . Yet you 
 must get it for a short time so as to answer a short purpose. 
 Our Court sits the first Tuesday of September next. I 
 shall be glad to have you here without fail at the trial. It 
 will be necessary for me to prove he was within the British 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 395 
 
 lines. This evidence you will please bring. I suppose I 
 can put off the trial for a day or two for you, if necessary. 
 But I should be sorry to be without you at the trial. Its 
 a matter of so much consequence, the Court will indulge 
 me with several days. Pray is Congress agoing to do any 
 thing for you? Hum[phre]ys is provided for. When does 
 he leave New York? : I must write him on business, but 
 time will not permit. Jack Webb, Chester, and Riley, 
 find plenty of game; therefore bring your gun powder and 
 shott. We will endeavor to make it as agreeable as possi 
 ble. Do not forget your Acct. with E. Bulkley. His 
 widow is disposed to behave ill to us I mistrust. Did I 
 tell you that Jack Webb had a very bad kick from his horse 
 sometime since, which prevented his journey; but is now 
 so he rides out and goes a gunning. What shall be done 
 with Jack Webb and Mrs. G[reene] when they meet? I am, 
 Dear Brother, Yrs. Sincerely, 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
 Brother Jack Chester behaves to a charm and indeed his 
 family. Mrs. W[ebb] and Sally beg to be remembered to 
 you. Old Mr. Hugh s 2 evidence of his buying goods of me 
 for the Army and paying Continental money only, will be 
 of service; if convenient to get. So will Wadsworth. 
 
 The Money for my Taylor will be paid before you leave 
 it. I have skipt something will be in York in a few days. 
 I feel the hint. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Broadway, No. 25. New 
 York. 
 
 1 As United States minister to Portugal. 
 
 2 Hugh Hughes? 
 
396 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, August i8th, 1789. 
 
 Tuesday Evening. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 Yours of the i6th gave me pleasure to find you back in 
 New York. On Sunday last I waited on Seymour, told 
 him I was ready to go to jail on Monday according to his 
 request. I asked him for his orders from Alsop. He 
 showed me a letter dated the 2nd instant, wrote by Alsop 
 himself, in which he writes nearly the following words. 
 
 Dr. Sir. I wrote, you some time since by Jos. Webb, who requested 
 a few weeks to negotiate and make some offers. I wrote you, if it was 
 not inconsistent with my hold to grant him a reasonable time. Three 
 weeks has elapsed, and I have not heard a word from him. I now wish 
 the officer may be crowded to his duty; if security or payment is not 
 made, confine him in goal immediately. Yr. H. Servt., 
 
 JNO. ALSOP. 
 
 John does not know me. He and Rufus may find them 
 selves mistaken when its too late. I shall make no offers, 
 hard as the fate is. I know its necessary to go; but its 
 ruinous both to creditors and my family. I confess I cant 
 see what they would be at; but you may tell my other 
 creditors I feel all they could wish me to do. I am pre 
 paring, and in short am ready at an hour s warning. 
 
 Poor Mrs W[ebb] has born all with most astonishing forti 
 tude and cleverness; but this comes with a heavyness I 
 fear will be too much for her. I suppose I shall go on 
 Fryday. I am quite resigned, and had rather move into 
 Gaol, and be within the yard with my family, than make 
 Jno. Alsop any other offer. He s an [un]feeling Dutch 
 man that is quarreling with his own interest. I find Sey 
 mour feels for me, is surprised Alsop does not accept, cant 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 397 
 
 but think he still will. For my part I have no Idea Jno. 
 or Rufus will give any other orders than to collect the 
 whole, or put me to Gaol. They prefer loosing the Debt. 
 Why [do] I say Jno. and Rufus? This is their langue when 
 they talk of Jos. W. No, Brother Sam, I will not knowingly 
 injure my other creditors by gratifying their unfeeling un- 
 mercantile conduct. Write me by the return of this post. 
 I think its likely to be the last I can receive from you be 
 fore I am destined to that horrid cell at Hartford. Make 
 yourself easy on my Acct. I doubt not I shall find friends 
 there. The first private opportunity I shall send Bowers 
 his bill. Tell Denning, Strong, and the rest, I shall do 
 what is right, and make no other offer to A[lsop], 
 
 Forget me not about the needful for the first Tuesday 
 [in] September, about Jona. Simpson s affair. I wish for 
 an evidence that saw Jona. Simpson within the British 
 lines; for tho its believed, yet it must be known. Did you 
 ever see him during your imprisonment? I believe I must 
 have Atkinson s evidence. Is Effingham Lawrence gone 
 to London? Brother Jack wishes for his saddle and bridle. 
 I wish for mine from McEvers, for Sally to write on horse 
 back. Where is Mrs. Greene? 
 
 To return to my business. Our friend Wadsworth has 
 been friendly and clever. He has all the Dear Good wishes 
 of the Chester and Webb family for his attention to me. 
 You cant think what Jack Chester, Mrs. C[hester], the old 
 lady, feel for me. Make your self easy about my fortitude. 
 It will be all you can wish. I am ready for the worst. 
 Poor Jack Webb is like a forlorn wanderer. He vexes, 
 teases himself to death. Curses A[lsop] and K[ing] for the 
 hardness of their hearts; loves me and the family dearly; 
 but I wish to G d he would make himself the happy, easy, 
 
398 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 calm, quiet Philosopher. What do you mean about 
 A[lsop] hearing the words of Mr. Jos. Bull? I know not 
 what you mean. I wish you would let me know. I also 
 wish you would enquire if I did not leave a shirt and some 
 other clothes either at your house, Mrs. Frances or at 
 Philips . Brother Jack would have met you, but just be 
 fore his vessel sailed one of his horses kickt him bad; but 
 he s now quite recovered and will write you soon. I am 
 your much injured and distressed Brother, 
 
 J. W. 
 
 Past II o clock; my eyes tho to appearance well, yet so 
 week as to prevent me from even reading or correcting this 
 letter. 
 
 Tell Mr. Sherbrooke I would write him but my eyes 
 prevent. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Broadway, No. 25, New York. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I this moment set off for Litchfield and hope to be back 
 tomorrow night. I find it will be necessary for you to be 
 here on Tuesday next, as my cause is then fixt for trial. 
 Perhaps Wadsworth s evidence will be necessary about 
 buying goods for me. 
 
 I must prove he was within the British lines. This I 
 cant prove here. Atkinson or some others may in York. 
 Be here with all necessaries to help me. Forget not the 
 Congress stuff. 
 
 Your affectionate Brother, 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 August 27th, 1789. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 399 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, September 3, 1789. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I wish for the evidence of Jonathan Simpson, Junior, 
 being within the lines during the Warr. Altho every one 
 supposes it, yet no one knows it or has seen him. It must 
 be proof positive that some one saw him within the lines. 
 I am sorry to write you so often on this subject, but next 
 week the affair must be closed for or against me. I have 
 had no letters from you this evening. If you could [call] 
 some one from Georgia or South Carolina to evidence, it 
 might be well, or Quebec. 
 
 Perhaps you might get a few thousands, one, two, or 5, 
 of McCormic for a short time. Early dates would be 
 best. Colo. Chester begs you to send on the said instru 
 ments. Pray what s become of Conklin with my cloths? 
 Mr. Warren, the Bermudian, says you talk of coming to 
 commencement. Is this the case? Write me fully. Yr 
 Friend and Br., 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 Pray send me on Stern s Works and Gordon s History. 
 I send you Hilldness Rect. for the 407 L[awful] M[one]y. 
 I paid for the books. I drank tea with the two Miss 
 Johnsons, Dr. Warren and Ths. Chester this afternoon at 
 Colo. Wadsworth. The frost has done no hurt here 
 abouts; the farmers may perhaps tell some cock and bull 
 story. Take care and keep all my letters secret from every 
 eye. Where is Mrs. Green s letter? Mrs Webb is anxious 
 to see it. Mrs. Gr. is not yet arrived. 
 
4OO FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Sunday Evening, 6th September, [1789.] 
 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I should have wrote you immediately on my return from 
 Salisbury, but being in expectation of seeing you prevented. 
 But this day our mutual friend Paris, Esqr., calling on us, 
 I thought best once more to intrude one of my scralls 
 upon you. The two Mr. Johnsons from Stratford, Mr. 
 Verplanck and some other gentlemen dined and spent the 
 day with us this day. I wish to God I could say that I 
 enjoy d company as I once did. But . 
 
 I am anxious to see you on several accounts, and I will 
 thank you to let me know when you think it probable we 
 shall meet in this place. For on Tuesday or Wednesday 
 my intention is to leave this for the farm at Coalchester, 
 where I shall continue a few days. I am surprised that 
 Mr. Houston does not forward my bridle and saddle. I 
 am in great want of it. Should he not forward it soon I 
 shall be oblig d to purchase me boath. I wish you would 
 bring some powder and shott with you; [of] coarse shott 
 I have a quantity. I am with compliments to all friends 
 your affectionate Brother, 
 
 JOHN. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 1 
 
 I wrote you the two last posts; therefore I have no 
 answer. I have not much to say. 
 
 I am endeavoring to get along as well as I can. I make 
 
 1 On the same sheet. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 40! 
 
 myself tolerably easy, let the world use me as they will. I 
 find it s the only way to get along. What availeth by 
 fretting, teasing, scolding and all these cross matters. I 
 live and enjoy myself with all the crosses, losses and ill 
 fortune. I am not so anxious even with a wife and seven 
 children as some others without any connections. Adieu. 
 Adieu, says Yrs. Sincerely, 
 
 J. w. 
 
 Would it not be well for you to tell Vanhorn, Sherry? 
 Denny and others, that I will so act that I cant but think 
 they will love me. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, 25 Broadway, New York. 
 Per Mr. Pariss. 
 
 FROM JAMES DUYCKINCK. 
 
 P. LANDING, 7 September, 1789. 
 Sir: 
 
 The long neglect on your side for the settlement of the 
 Accts. with the estate of Richard Bancker, deceased, has 
 reduced me before now to the absolute determination of 
 puting the accounts in the hands of an attorney; but the 
 connections of family and friends to both of us have ad 
 vised to indeavour to get it settled in a friendly way, as 
 the law would be of means of creating animossety in the 
 family, and in dead would seam to the world an acct of 
 condemnation. But however these things are reduced 
 with me to an absolute determination with me. You have 
 heretofore sundry times promised an immediate settle 
 ment; only with exceptions of a week or two at one time, 
 and on your hasttely returning from Boston at an other 
 
4O2 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 time. Near three years has since relapts, which is sufficent 
 to convince me you dont mean to does these matters with 
 out thoes unfriendly measures which I have worne out my 
 patience to avoid. My earnest request you will returne me 
 your answer in what mode we are to effect this settlement. 
 I imbrace the opportunity of sending this by Mr. John 
 Duyckinck, and hope you will use the same conveyance to 
 me at his return. Am Sir your Most Humble Servt. 
 
 JAMES DUYCKINCK. 
 
 Endorsed: Reed 10 Sept. James Duyckinck s Letter, Brunswick, 
 7th Sept. 1789; to which I returned a verbal answer by his brother 
 John, that I ever had been ready to examine any accounts he should 
 produce, but was not administrator to Mrs. Sarah Bancker, dec d. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Sept. loth, 1789. 
 DearBr: 
 
 Our Court has this day broke up. Simpson s affair are 
 put off untill March. I thot it my duty to let you know 
 this, to make your arrangements about coming to Connecti 
 cut. I think my affairs in that department stand well. As 
 to A[lsop], all remains uncertain. What ought I to do. Is 
 it necessary for me to write to A[lsop], or to K[ing]? I 
 never shall make him another offer. Mrs. Greene is now 
 at table in fine spirits; so is Edwards, who is my staunch 
 friend. I have wrote you several letters since I have had 
 an answer. I am yours sincerely, 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 403 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, iyth September, 1789. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 On my return last evening from the farm at Coalchester 
 I saw your letter to my brother and self. I thank you for 
 your attention to my affairs. I wish also you would send 
 one my blankets and mattress with the saddle and bridle, 
 as we are in want of blankets. Since writing the above 
 Colo. Chester has returned from Hartford, where he went 
 to leave our friend and brother in Goal, and this night a 
 horrid and disagreeable Prison confines a man who has been 
 to to generous to all mankind. I hope it will not be long 
 before his situation is altered. Here I am with a family of 
 eleven children, who look up to me to protect them, with 
 a most heavenly woman at their head. Judge of our feel 
 ings, and you may in some degree see what pleasure I have 
 taken since my return here. I am not in any situation to 
 write this evening. I hope and expect that it will not be 
 long before you come, for there are many and waity reasons 
 why you should be here, not only on his account but on 
 your own. Should it be in your power to send a few 
 pounds of tea to our good sister I wish you would. Be so 
 good as to pay attention to my letters that arrive from 
 Georgia. Perhaps you had better write Seagrove; he may 
 by that be induced to make some remittances. The 
 family desire their love to you and Aunt Polly. Excuse 
 this hasty scrall, and believe me to be with unalterable 
 esteem and Your Brother, 
 
 JOHN W. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, New York. Per Stage. 
 
404 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 HARTFORD, I7th September, 1789. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 This acknowledges the receipt of yours directed to Br. 
 Jack and me. I am now close confined in Gaol by Mr. 
 Alsop. Make yourself easy. I am as happy as a poor 
 unfortunate jailbird can be. I have mustered all the reso 
 lution I am master of, and my friends are surprised to see 
 me behave so well. But it s a jail, and it s confinement. 
 I am resolved to what I shall not say anything about on 
 paper. All my anxiety is for your poor unfortunate sister 
 and family. I however trust all is for the best. I think 
 it will be well for you to acquaint Messrs. Sherbrooke, 
 Vanhorn [and] Denning. A[lsop] has shot his foolish bolt. 
 I wish not to say too much until some opportunity offers. 
 I will let some one call on you and acquaint you with all. 
 Bacon will call and pay Brower. If you can conveniently 
 send some little ale to your sister it will please much. 
 Flour is plenty with us. I shall say but little at present 
 but I trust all is for the best. What s to be done I know 
 not, but the upright honest merchant shall be my theme. 
 I am, Dear Brother, Your most afft friend, 
 
 J. W. 
 
 HARTFORD GAOL, Thursday Evening. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 29th September, 1789. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I am happy to have it in my power to tell you that our 
 brother has kept up his spirits much better than I had any 
 idea of. I have done everything to make him comfortable. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 405 
 
 Also to render his family happy. In one of my last letters 
 to you I requested you to send them a few pounds of tea 
 and sugar. I wish you to by Capt. Richard Bacon; also 
 to send all of my things that I left at your house, such as 
 my pistols, gun, shott, mattrass, blankets and portmanteau, 
 and shoe brushes. The blankets we are in great want of. 
 Neither my sister nor brother wish you to sacrifice your 
 prospects to them; they are comfortable at present, and 
 I shall make it my study to render them every service in 
 my power. I am obliged to go to Hartford almost every 
 day, and am obliged to borrow a bridle and saddle. I 
 wish you to send mine and the bitts that James McEvers 
 has given you an order for, for our brother. I expected 
 in every paper to see your name, and that you had obtained 
 some office; but the favors of men in power a[re] very un-- 
 certain. I wish you to send six or eight pounds of the 
 powder you sent a sammple off, also a few pounds of Bird 
 shott. The taxes on your Glastonbury bond I have paid. 
 Sister requests me to give her love to you and Aunt Polly; 
 the children join, who often ask after you. I am con 
 vinced that it s for the best that our brother has taken the 
 step he has. We are reconciled to it. Think it for the 
 best; tho you can have no idea how much we have felt on 
 the occasion. But Mrs. W[ebb], with her usual propriety 
 of conduct, has in this instance kept her spirits to a charm. 
 Consider a man who through life who has lived in afluance, 
 to be confined in a Durty Gaol. Put ourselves in a similar 
 situation, then perhaps we may judge. He keeps his 
 spirits up and our friends have been very attentive. He 
 has constantly some one friend with him. Was the place 
 in any respect equal to our worthy friend Lotts, I should 
 not so much care; but the winter I fear, as the place must 
 
406 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 be cold and disagreeable. He sincerely thanks Colo. 
 Livingstone for his letter. Excuse this scrall, and rest 
 assured that no one loves and esteems you more than your 
 affectionate Brother, 
 
 JOHN. 
 
 P. S. I wish you to send me a dogg by Richard Bacon. 
 Perhaps Coll. Smith will give you one of his Newfoundland 
 pups. 
 
 To COLONEL FISHBURN. 
 
 NEW YORK, 29th September, 1789. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have received yours of this morning s date, and have 
 to observe I am totally ignorant of my brother s affairs 
 in Georgia. If he owes money I presume it is oweing to 
 some disappointment of his friends there, as he usually 
 has been strictly punctual. By Major Sumner there was 
 a letter addressed to him, you say from Mr. Pinman. I 
 have forwarded it to him, and two others in the same hand 
 writing which were left at my house while I was in the 
 northern country, and probably had been here from two 
 to three months. I will write him on the subject tomor 
 row s post, and I know him so well that you may assure 
 Mr. Pinman that if there is moneys due him, it has been 
 oweing to accident and not design that he has not been 
 paid; for when my Brother left me in May last he was in 
 expectations of considerable remittances from Georgia. 
 
 Had I the sum you want to spare without great incon 
 venience I should take a pleasure in obliging you; but at 
 present tis not in my power. Your friends Genl. Matthews 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 407 
 
 and Jackson 1 have this day received upwards of 1,000 
 dollars. I dare say they can without inconvenience supply 
 you. I am, dear sir, Your most Obed Servt, 
 
 SAML. B. WEBB. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 HARTFORD PRISON, Wensday Evening, 
 
 October 7th, 1789. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Mr. Joseph Bull has just called upon me and says he s 
 going to New York in the morning; and as it s a private 
 opportunity, altho you have not wrote me since my im 
 prisonment which was on the iyth of September, and 
 further I wrote you yesterday by Charles Hopkins, yet 
 I doubt not your friendship and tender feelings. 
 
 I am happy and supplied with all my wants except my 
 liberty; for particulars I refer you to Hopkins and Bull. 
 I shall do nothing in a hurry. I shall take my own time as 
 to giving all up, as Colo. W[adsworth] and some friends 
 wish. At present, between ourselves, I have far other 
 views, and very honorable ones, as Jos. B[arrell] can tell 
 you. He s my friend, so is Amos B[ull]. Colo. Chester 
 behaves to a charm. Write Mrs. W[ebb] once and awhile; 
 it will not be amiss. Where is my G ? why does 
 she neglect writing? What says Sherbrook, Vanhorn, and 
 the rest? I am in haste all you wish as to love and 
 affection. 
 
 WEBB. 
 
 1 George Matthews and James Jackson, both members of Congress 
 from Georgia. 
 
408 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 HARTFORD PRISON, 2Oth October, 1789. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I have almost resolved to neglect writing you untill I 
 have a letter from you. Can any one believe that my 
 fond, tender, affectionate Brother should neglect writing 
 me during a five weeks imprisonment? So it is; I declare 
 I have not received one line from you. I have received a 
 line from our friend Wm. Denning; it s a queer kind of a 
 thing, but upon the whole its well meant, and I will answer 
 it when I have leisure; but I am now cautious. I must 
 write but little, and that with prudence and attention. I 
 have now your sister Webb seting by, and I have to tell 
 you I have fixt up two chambers that are pleasant and 
 agreeably situated. Yet, my Brother, it s a prison, and a 
 place I do not deserve. Jemmy McEvers is in town and 
 has visited me every day. The President arrived in town 
 last evening, and put up at Fred Bull, and goes out quite 
 early in the morning. He was met at Wethersfield by the 
 light horse from Hartford and a large concourse of people; 
 in short he has been paid much attention for Connecticut 
 people. 1 
 
 Write me fully the news and what you think will cheer a 
 prisoner. Have I told you in. all my letters, or any one, 
 that Colo. Chester from the first of my affair with Alsop 
 he [has] behaved the brother and friend. He is a fine 
 fellow. Joseph Barrell writes me that Silas Dfeane] is 
 expected every hour in Capt. Colahan. When is Duke 
 
 1 "At Weathersfield we were met by a party of the Hartford Light 
 Horse, and a number of Gentlemen from the same place with Colo. 
 Wadsworth at their head, and escorted to Bull s Tavern, where we 
 lodged. "Washington s Diary." 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 409 
 
 Humphrey expected back? Where is Mrs. Greene? What 
 shall I do with General Moylan? 1 What says K[ing], 
 A[lsop], &c? However I ask these questions, and wish to 
 be gratified. I know it s with difficulty you can answer 
 them all. I am with every sentiment of esteem love and 
 regard Your affectionate Brother, 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 Tuesday Evening. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Sunday, 25th October, 1789. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 On my return from Coalchester I received your letter, 
 and immediately sent it to our brother at Hartford. I am 
 almost discouraged of ever seeing you here, but I hope 
 that you will not put it of much longer. If you should, 
 perhaps at a future period you might have reason to regret 
 the neglect. I must confess that I am about discouraged, 
 so much so that I am determined soon to change my present 
 situation. You can have no idea how very disagreeable 
 I am situated. In short it will not be in my power to 
 afford the frequent supplies I have done. Will not A[lsop] 
 offer some terms with the rest, for at present they are in- 
 jureing themselves as well as him. 
 
 Sister W[ebb] thanks you very much for your friendly 
 condolence, and should be very happy to see you. Re 
 quest you to remember her to Aunt Polly, who she and 
 
 1 Stephen Moylan was an Irishman who settled in Philadelphia 
 and joined the Continental army in the first year of the war. He 
 served as aide de camp to Washington, and later commanded a regi 
 ment of cavalry. He became brevet Brigadier General, September 30, 
 1783. 
 
4-IO FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 the family do not forget. I thank you when you ship the 
 things of mine, if you will send everything, the shoe brushes 
 with the rest. Have you wrote or heard from Seagrove? 
 Its very singular that I have never had a line from him. 
 Have you heard of or seen Major John Burrows? He was 
 my friend, and I left in his hands a protested Bill of 
 250. o. o sterling. The family have been very unwell, as 
 has my brother who has been confined to his bed. Should 
 you see our worthy friend Mr. A. Lott and family, please to 
 remember me to them. I thank you for the offer of the 
 powder; it will come very acceptable. Should you no of 
 any opportunity to Georgia be good enough to inform me. 
 Excuse this hasty scrall, and believe me to be with sincere 
 Esteem and affection your brother, 
 
 JNO. W. 
 
 Addressed^ General Saml. B. Webb, New York. Honored by Mr. 
 Denning. 
 
 FROM HENRY IZARD. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 It is with the highest degree of satisfaction that I have 
 it in my power to inform you, that I shall not be under the 
 necessity of making use of your obliging note. Mr. Mc- 
 Comb has had a meeting with the managers and, after 
 much discussion, they have agreed to let me have a ticket 
 whenever I please. At the same time I take this oppor 
 tunity of professing myself not less obliged to you on that 
 account for your singular politeness. I am, Dear Sir, 
 your Friend and very humble Servt. 
 
 H. IZARD. 
 
 Thursday, 29th October, 1789. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 4! I 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 6th December, 1789. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 I received your friendly letter of the 22nd November. 
 The bridle and saddle with the blankets came safe to hand. 
 I thank you for sending them; also in sending the things by 
 Capt. Barnard, who has not as yet arrived. The seen with 
 S[ilas] D[eane] is closed, and from the want of attention to 
 our matters with him our attachments are losst. I have 
 been with Mr. John Trumbull, our Council, who advises 
 us to bring a Petition to the House of Assembly, praying 
 that the lands absolutely received for my or our Father s 
 debts may be given to us, and said he has not a doubt but 
 the Petition will be granted. We must have you here, as 
 Trumbull and [Pierrepont] Edwards will want to see us 
 previous to presenting the Petition. To give you any 
 idea of our situation without our worthy brother will be 
 needless, as you can judge. I pity our worthy sister and 
 children. Can any feeling person wish to confine a man 
 who wishes to do justice from his amiable family? Could 
 they see them, I am shure the seen would be altered. Is 
 there any prospect of a change? 
 
 Tomorrow or on Monday I leave this with the stock for 
 my vessell for New London, which is bound to the West 
 Indies. I expect to return here by Thursday. 
 
 My sister with the children desire their love to you and 
 Aunt Jay. They wish very much to see you boath. 
 
 On your way here you had better call on Mr. Edwards, 
 who is our friend and has some friends in the house of As 
 sembly. I thank Coll. Smith and you for the dog, and 
 will pay him greater attention for the giver s sake. 
 
412 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 May perfect happiness here and hereafter be your Lott, 
 sais your affectionate Brother, JOHN WEBB. 
 
 FROM RICHARD PLATT. 
 
 T-X c . NEW YORK, December 27th, 1789. 
 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I am favored with yours of the i6th covering Mr. Bar- 
 rell s proposals, which are inadmis sable, and likewise with 
 yours of the 2Oth, in which you hold out some idea of stay 
 ing in Boston till the 3ist instant, in order to have my 
 answer to the proposals above mentioned. This I confess 
 embarrasses me, because I have engagements here which 
 require a remittance of my money at an earlier period than 
 that arrangement will produce; and another mortifying 
 consideration is, that you and Mr. B[arrell] should think 
 me so much in want of capital as to submit to a loss of 
 4000 dollars douceur, in order to embrace it. In answer 
 to which I have to say that notwithstanding many unfore 
 seen difficulties and disappointments from abroad, yet I am 
 able to comply with my engagements. I asked of you to 
 state to Mr. B. the very precarious ground I stood on with 
 respect to the return of my certificates by Mr. Jefferson in 
 season to return his loan, from which I hoped that overtures 
 would have come from him, assuring, me that in case of a 
 failure of delivery on the day, no advantage would be 
 taken of it; and you may well remember in order to qualify 
 this, I told you in my last words on the Crane wharfe, 
 44 that if I should be fortunate enough to receive my cer 
 tificates from J. any time before the period limited for a 
 return, I would transmit him [Mr. B.] immediately." 
 This I imagined would look so much like a reciprocity of 
 accommodation, as readily to produce an equal return. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 413 
 
 But no mention being made of any kind of accommodation 
 on the part of Mr. B. thro you, it would seem to result 
 (tho I have too favourable an opinion of the honor and 
 virtue of Mr. B. to exact an advantage) that I was held to a 
 Bank engagement, thereby restricted to a day, and in case 
 of non-punctuality, posted for a delinquent. To avoid 
 therefore any possibility of endangering a reputation very 
 dear to me, no small sacrifices have been made, and prob 
 ably many disagreeable sensations felt. 
 
 Now then I have to thank Mr. B. for an extension of con 
 fidence in Mr. C. and R. P. to lend us 100,000 dollars, which 
 at io/ is certainly a serious thing, and to you I am indebted 
 for your attention and zeal for our supposed interest. I am 
 sorry the fates have so ordained that my money could not 
 have been appropriated, but this I attribute to the rage, 
 and not to the want of skill or exertion on your part. On 
 the contrary I am persuaded of everything practicable be 
 ing done. 
 
 I wish you the compliments of the season and a safe 
 and speedy return, and am, Dr Sir, Your friend and obedt 
 Servt, RICHARD PLATT. 
 
 Endorsed: In the absence of Gen l Webb, Mr. Joseph Barrell will 
 please to receive this letter. 
 
 Addressed: General Sam l B. Webb, Boston. Post. 
 
 TOASTS. 
 
 [1789?] 
 
 1 The President of the United States of America. 
 
 2 The Vice President of the United States of America. 
 3d The Federal Judiciary. 
 
414 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 4th The Senate of the United States. 
 
 5th The Speaker of the House of Representatives of the 
 United States. 
 
 6th The late Federal Convention. 
 
 7th The Constitution of our country, may it prove the 
 solid fabrick of American Liberty, prosperity, and glory. 
 
 8th The memory of those Heroes who fell in the defence 
 of the liberties of America. 
 
 9th His Most Christian Majesty and the People of 
 France. 
 
 loth Their High Mightinesses, the States General of 
 the United Netherlands. 
 
 nth The Friendly Powers of Europe and the friends of 
 Liberty throughout the Globe. 
 
 12 May the Blessings of Peace be long the happy lot of 
 our country, and every Citizen of America feel himself 
 deeply interested in the due execution of the laws of the 
 Union. 
 
 1 3th The rights and powers of the Grand Jurors, may 
 they ever be held sacred. 1 
 
 FROM RICHARD PLATT. 
 
 NEW YORK, January 14, 1790. 
 Dear General: 
 
 I give you a letter to Matthew McConnell, and one to 
 Mr. Robert Smith, merchant in Philadelphia, both open 
 for your perusal, which you will seal and deliver. And I 
 put into your hands Alexander Robertson s order on said 
 Mr. Smith for two notes of Matthew McConnell s in his 
 
 1 The last toast alone is in the writing of Webb. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 415 
 
 hands, vizt. one for 1599. 9. 9 payable on the i6th January 
 instant, another for 1404 .17.4 payable on the 1 7th February 
 next; and also a draft on Mr. Robert Smith for 823. 12. n, 
 which you will please to give him, as he has generously given 
 his note for the same amount to Mr. McConnell, and my 
 wish is to accommodate McConnell in the payment of his 
 first note, which will be due by the time you get to Phila 
 delphia, in the following manner, vizt. let him deduct out 
 of it any balance I owe him in account, and likewise for 
 his assumption or note for me for 396. 2. 4, and afterwards 
 he can pay you what money is convenient (or in Indents @ 
 6/3 or at 6/6, if he has not before purchased for this note) 
 to him, and then remit me either in cash or indents in some 
 days afterwards; or in other words, let me tell you my 
 idea is to accommodate him in the way most ob/liging to him, 
 and corresponding with the terms in my letter to him, both 
 for the first and second of his notes. 
 
 You have eight thousand four hundred and twenty-one 
 dollars of finals given to you, which you will please to sell 
 at from 9/ to io/ cash, or exchange for indents; say give 
 them, i. e. finals as above, and receive indents at 6/ or 7/, 
 making 3/ difference in the prices. I am yours, &c. 
 
 RICHARD PLATT. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 Sunday Morning, 28th February, 1790. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I think of all the springs I ever met with in my life I 
 never knew the roads so bad as this. More than ten days 
 last past since I have seen my Dear Partner, the roads are 
 almost impassable. I now send you a salmon that weighs 
 
416 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 28 lb. I hope it will arrive safe and in good order. I never 
 saw a finer looking one. They are scarce and not to be got; 
 but an honest country fellow came from Wright s Island, 
 and brot it on purpose. He said to oblige an old friend, 
 take this with you. He made me pay for every ounce. I 
 hope it will come in due season to give you pleasure. 
 Wadsworth called on me several times. I expected he 
 would have called again. I am chagrined he did not; but 
 I am now used to disappointments. One thing I wish; 
 collect his sentiments and let me hear from you, good or 
 bad. I am prepared to be calm and easy; it s almost out of 
 their power to ruffle me any more. I should be glad in my 
 retreat and lonely situation to read Dr. Gordon. Can you 
 send it me. What shall I do with General Moylan? Will 
 it, my Brother, do to sue so clever a fellow? I have wrote 
 you so many letters that have not been answered, I hardly 
 know what to write. I am, Dear Brother, wishing you 
 health and happiness, Your affectionate Br. 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
 Have I told you Humphrey settled with me. Mrs. 
 W[ebb] is intirely without a carpet for either front room. 
 What one would you advise me to buy? Will it do to send 
 some money and buy a second hand one at vendue? Where 
 is our friend Majr. Haskell? Brother Jack thinks of going 
 out to St. Kitts. I think he will do well to go. He showed 
 me your letter about Grandfather Webb. 1 I have been 
 uneasy a long while, for fear the old gentleman will die in 
 possession of the estate, and it may be forfitied. I have 
 
 1 Joseph Webb, born 1700. He married for his first wife Sarah 
 Blachley and had one son Joseph the father of Samuel Blachley 
 Webb. He died sometime in 1791. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 417 
 
 taken advice and the best counsel I can get say, as it was 
 left in his hands for his support, we need not fear. If 
 anything new turns up advise me, and I can do the needful. 
 Pray write me the situation of my affairs in the hands of 
 your attornies, of Colo. Burr, &c. I much wish for the 
 copy of Dr. Jones demand against me on Phil Livingston 
 debt. I suppose I owe nothing, but send me the necessary. 
 I sometimes get low spirited, but most of the time I am 
 cheerful and happy. At times I wish I was at some dis 
 tance with my family, and that all the rest of the world 
 would forget there was ever such a person as Jos. W. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Broadway No. 25, New York. 
 With a Box containing a Salmon, Wt. 28 Ibs. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Sunday, 28th February, 1790. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I wrote you two letters lately, one by a Mr. Hopkins, 
 the other by a stranger. As I had nothing of any conse 
 quence to write you, I thought I would not trouble you 
 with paying postage. That is the case at this time. But 
 I suppose it must be a satisfaction to tell you the family 
 are all in health and in tolerable spirits. Mrs. W[ebb] and 
 the children desire to be remembered to you. Is there a 
 probability of my brother s having any terms offered him 
 from his credittors? It s impossible that he can do any 
 thing towards settling his matters while in prison, for there 
 are many that will not go to a prison to settle accounts; 
 then if he sues them, they bring in account against Silas 
 Deane and say, that my brother told them that he would 
 
418 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 pay them, by which means he has lost lately to a very great 
 amount. And he is losing footing with the courts. They 
 think his being kept there is from some fraudulent conduct. 
 In short if they keep him there much longer I am afraid it 
 will be boath an injury to them and himself. It s their 
 interest that he should be let out of prison. We shall in 
 evitably lose all our hold on Silas Deane s matters if some 
 one does not pay attention to them. Is there a probability 
 of your comeing up before the sitting of the General Assem 
 bly? Trumbull advises that we should bring a petition to 
 the House, praying that the lands and property absolutely 
 taken for bonifide debts of my father might be vested in us 
 the heirs. Excuse this scrall. How are publick securities? 
 Believe me to be with sincere affection and esteem your 
 affectionate Brother, 
 
 JOHN. 
 
 FROM JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. 
 
 HARTFORD, March 17th, 1790. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 As the Lottery is to begin drawing on Monday after 
 next, I will thank you to send the tickets unsold by next 
 post under cover to Mr. Deane. Mr* Trumbull will frank 
 them. 
 
 I am, Dear Sir, Your very H. Servt., 
 
 JERE. WADSWORTH. 
 
 P. S. I spent an hour with your brother this day, and 
 Mrs. Webb is now with us very well. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 419 
 
 FROM MATTHEW McCoNNELL. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA, 2Oth May, 1790. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I wrote you by a trusty person who went in the early 
 stage this morning, and sent by him 8,511 dollars final 
 settlements, with interest due on them 2065 dollars. These 
 will be delivered this evening or early tomorrow morning, 
 and I requested you to hold them in case you thought they 
 would rise, but to sell for the highest cash price if you be 
 lieved they would fall. Since that I was asked for a bill 
 on New York at sight for three thousand dollars, and have 
 drawn on you accordingly for that sum in favor of Wm. 
 Backhouse and Wm. Laight. Now observe, if you have 
 remitted me for the bills on LeRoy & Son you must sell as 
 many of the above certificates for the most they will bring 
 as will pay my draft; or if accident should prevent mine 
 reaching you in time, sell as many of your own and I will 
 replace them. I should like the bill paid without the usual 
 grace, but in this you must be governed by circumstances. 
 I am, Dear Sir, 
 
 MAT MCCONNELL. 
 
 FROM MATTHEW McCoNNELL. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA, 3Oth May, 1790. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 This I expect will find you at home, and from the tenor 
 of your last and the favourable circumstances that have 
 been ever since taking place with regard to the funding 
 bill, I take it for granted my certificates are still on hand 
 and likely to remain so. This, with about 15,000 I bought 
 in the beginning of last week, I consider a piece of good 
 
42O FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 fortune; but on the other hand I have been confined with 
 the prevailing disorder for several days. If you could take 
 the trouble to have the certificates registered I would like 
 it. Also let me know what alterations, if any, are likely 
 to be made in the bill in the Senate, and the prospect of 
 the State debts in a separate bill. I am, Dear Sir, Your 
 Hbl. Servt. 
 
 MAT. McCoNNELL. 
 
 Addressed: General S. B. Webb or Col. Richd. Platt, New York. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM POPHAM. 
 
 WEST CHESTER, August gth, 1790. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Enclosed you have the Judge of Probates order for the 
 sale of the lands. 
 
 Any assistance I can give you in the prosecution of this 
 business I shall be happy to afford you. I am yours etc. 
 
 W. POPHAM. 
 
 FROM JAMES STEWART. 
 
 NEW YORK, September nth, 1790. 
 Kind Sir: 
 
 I received your favour of the 6th instant the 9th, or I 
 should have answered you by post, and on inquire I found 
 that Capt. Hathaway had sailed the evening before. You 
 may be asured that I will send you the sample of wine by 
 the first opertunity. I am extreemly sorry that the cask 
 has hurt the wine; to prevent which in cleaning it I would 
 not trust to my servent, but did it myself, and burnt 
 brandy in it, which you know yourself I tooke all the care 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 421 
 
 that was in my power. If you have it drawing of amedietly 
 in the air into a sweet cask or demijohn, and stand it oping 
 [open] in the sun it will recover its purity. I hope my good 
 intentions knowing by you will plead my excuse with your 
 friends. I inclose you the ten tickets you requested, and 
 wish you success with them. 
 
 I cannot finde a tool chest that is large anough for the 
 mony thay ask, but shall make further inquire without 
 you say send the one I mentioned to you at eight pounds. 
 I am, Kind Sir, Yr. Humb Servt., 
 
 JAMES STEWART. 
 
 Addressed: Sam l. B. Webb, Esqr. Claverack. To care Elihu C. 
 Goodrich, Esqr. Postmaster. 
 
 FROM STEPHEN HoGEBOOM. 1 
 
 [CLAVERACK, October 21, 1790.] 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have received from Caty the bad news of the price of 
 wheat, but have since understood that it is risen to 7/. I 
 hope it will find a price and not be so fluctuating, that we 
 might be more properly directed to purchase here. I send 
 you inclosed a kind of a certificate to Colo. Holdridge. He 
 wants to purchase my pair of little bay horses and pay me 
 out of it when properly obtained. This you are better 
 acquainted with, and therefore would wish you to write me 
 what manner this may be made sure to me, for I conceive 
 Colo. Holdridge but in poor circumstances. 
 
 I shall want another quarter cask of cherry wine, if not 
 
 1 Judge Hogeboom, who married Hellitie, daughter of Killian 
 Muller, of Claverack. 
 
422 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 too Dear, as well for sale as for our own use. Pleas to let 
 me know the price, as also price current of our produce. 
 
 Our family are all well and join with me in respect to you, 
 and am, Sir, yrs etc., 
 
 STEPHEN HOGEBOOM. 
 
 Addressed: Genl. Samuel B. Webb, New York. Postage paid. 
 Elihu Chauncey Goodrich. 
 
 FROM RICHARD PLATT. 
 
 NEW YORK, November 24, 1790. 
 Dear Webb : 
 
 Being out of town on Wednesday evening last and Sun 
 day at Flushing, I did not before answer yours of the I4th 
 current, and now I have only time to say a word to you, 
 such is my extreme hurry of business. The money from 
 your Brother has been left in my hands, to the amount of 
 45. o. 2, which you can have at sight. Bancker s 5 
 p cts. are worth 10/6 to n/, and 6 p. cts. unexchangeable, 
 1 1/ to 1 1/6. Those which are exchangeable are worth 
 13/4 to 13/6. Interest certificates, deducting \^ paid, 
 the remainder worth 9/ to 9/6. 
 
 I wish you will buy all you can of these kinds of paper, 
 but you must try to get them lower than the prices above 
 mentioned, or we shall not have much room to make any 
 thing. Send them by post and draw on me at sight or 5 
 days to any extent. Buy finals at 12/3 to 12/4, and In 
 dents from 7/ to 7/3, to any amount. Transmit them, 
 and draw on me for our mutual account. 
 
 I wish you every possible felicity, and pray make my 
 best compliments to Mrs. Webb. In haste yours etc., 
 
 R. PLATT. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 423 
 
 FROM SARAH WICKHAM. 
 
 [1790?] 
 Sir: 
 
 I have sent you the whole tickets, and will be much 
 obliged to you for renewing as many as the money will 
 purchase. 
 
 I am extremely obliged to you for your politeness and 
 attention, and be assured nothing will give me greater 
 pleasure than an opportunity of returning it. I am with 
 esteem your friend, 
 
 SARAH WICKHAM. 
 The ladies beg their compliments. 
 
 Thursday Morning. 
 
 FROM PASLEY, BARRY & LITTLE. 
 
 TENERIFE, 15 January, 1791. 
 Sir: 
 
 We are directed by our friend Jose Barrell, Esqr., of 
 Boston, to send you by the first opportunity for New York 
 one pipe of particular wine. 
 
 We come now to wait on you with Capt. Brown of the 
 Sloop Polly his Bill of Lading for the said pipe. The cost, 
 15 Sterling, we have charged to account of our above 
 mentioned friend agreeable to his order, and we flatter 
 ourselves that the quality will be found to your liking. We 
 remain, Sir, Your most ob. Servants, 
 
 PASLEY, BARRY & LITTLE. 
 
424 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON. 
 
 NEW YORK, March 16, 1791. 
 Dear General: 
 
 I only arrived here only yesterday. I have not had 
 time to talk or consult with Judge Hogeboom about the 
 elections. Mr. Bay I have seen and had a small conversa 
 tion with him. I proposed a meeting with our members 
 this evening, but I believe it cannot be had. Bay says 
 that last year they did prommise Mr. Adgate 1 to support 
 him as Senator this year. He, Bay, says he would have 
 no objections to support Walter, 2 provided Mr. Adgate 
 will resign. How matters will go I know not, but I depend 
 upon your support. I will try to see our members if I can. 
 I wish for no contest, but if w r e must have it I am prepared 
 for the worst. 
 
 No news in town. You will observe by the papers that 
 the last appointments made in Philadelphia some persons 
 who were entitled to be prefered have as usual been neg 
 lected. Present my best respects to Mrs. Webb and your 
 brother Jack. 
 
 I shall see you soon I hope. I am, Dr. General, your 
 true friend, 
 
 HENRY LIVINGSTON. 
 
 1 Matthew Adgate was a member of the Assembly from Columbia 
 County, in 1791, with Stephen Hogeboom and James Savage as 
 colleagues. In 1792 the representation had been enlarged, and from 
 Columbia County came Benjamin Birdsall, Jared Coffin, Jacob Ford, 
 Lawrence Hogeboom, Henry Livingston, and James Savage. Liv- 
 ng ston was in service for only one session. 
 2 Walter Livingston. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 425 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 My dear Brother: WETHERSFIELD, March 2 8th, 1791- 
 
 I have never received a line from you or our Brother 
 Samuel since you left us, although I have written both 
 several times; but I believe the communication for letters 
 from Claverac is realy very bad; so that I will not think 
 too hard untill I may see one of you. Jona. S[impson] has 
 recovered two judgments against me for about twelve 
 hundred pounds lawful money at our February Superior 
 Court, since which I have never heard a word from him 
 or his Attorny. Wadsworth is at home. I have hardly 
 seen him. There is no letter or news from Jared Bunce. 
 James Mitchell is at home. Jack Newson sold his vessel 
 and has made Newson pretty remittances by way of New 
 York. Newson has been down and brought home much 
 cash. Thus I have told you the West India matters. 
 Manning Wadsworth is agoing to marry Miss Nancy and 
 settle at Pittsfield in trade. Deming has been up and 
 purchased a place at Pitsfield, and been to New York and 
 returned with goods. The Pitsfield goods I suppose are 
 to go from N. York by water up the North River so far as 
 they can. So the world goes. Nat has paid Chamberlain 
 twenty-one dollars. We have never heard a single word 
 from you, only accidentally from Mid[dletow]n by Heza. 
 Hosmer. We are all anxious to hear more particulars 
 from you, Brother Sam, and our dear new sister. It was 
 a pity you did not stay longer with us. Jack Lothrop is 
 gone to the Singing Meeting, and I believe does not know 
 of this opportunity to Sheffield by A/Tanning Wadsworth, 
 who promises to endeavor to get this letter to you, or he 
 would have written you. I have settled the affair of 
 
426 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Wale s and got up the bond of C - and your s in my own 
 hands. I am as busy as any one can possibly be in ad 
 justing old Accounts. Tell Sister Kitty she made us very 
 happy, but we hope to see her in May, when we trust my 
 Mrs. Webb s health and situation will make it more agree 
 able to her, and that she will make a most agreeable jaunt 
 thro the country and be received with open arms. Colo. 
 Chester has just gone from here. He is a most lovely, 
 attentive, charming friend. It s now J/ after n o clock, 
 and the family and self much fatigued, and I am extreemly 
 dull and sleepy. If you can make anything of this letter 
 I shall be glad. I was in hopes you would before this 
 have found out some good conveyance that we might 
 write often. Little Jack grows finely and enquires when 
 you are comeing home. I hope you or Brother Saml. will 
 do the needful about Thrasher, Boardman, Woodhouse, &c. 
 Seems to me I hear your bad growl, asking about salmon. 
 There has been five caught, which sold at Hartford at a 
 pistareen per Ib. But none caught now on account of the 
 rise of water. Lothrop will be here in the morning before 
 he goes for Hartford to live. I will make him write if I can. 
 Jo. Bull has been his friend indeed, and will still render him 
 every service in his power. I am, Dear Brother, with love 
 and compliments to every branch of the Hogeboom family. 
 Yr. affectionate [No signature.] 
 
 FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON. 
 
 NEW YORK, March 29, 1791. 
 Dear General: 
 
 Since my last I have seen and conversed with Judge 
 Hogeboom and Van Ness. They both appear to have a 
 
SAMUEL BLACK LEY WEBB 427 
 
 wish to support my Brother Walter, but consider them 
 selves in part bound to Adgate. What effect it will have 
 upon their exertions in Adgate s favor I know not. I only 
 sincerely regret that two such gentlemen are opposed to us, 
 when they must know that the Senators of the State govern 
 ment are the only persons who represent the landed inter 
 est, and they, being both proprietors of lands, cannot have 
 great faith in such a representative as Adgate. I shall 
 depend upon your influence to advise and keep things upon 
 their proper poise. I shall also depend upon your influence 
 to forward our plan of electing Walter. Our friends north 
 of Columbia will exert themselves in our favor, and all fair 
 methods will be essayed. No news in town. Two ships 
 from this port to London lost on the English coast. Our 
 old friend [David] Franks is in this town in his way to 
 Boston. He has the appointment of Inspector to the 
 troops to be raised, with 3 dollars per day --a strange 
 appointment. Their is six gentlemen named by the Presi 
 dent to receive the subscriptions to the national Bank, but 
 not one farther north than Jersey, and every thing in like 
 manner. Many applications for appointments in the Mint, 
 but I suppose the President will give his choice favors to 
 his choice Potomack friends. I wish to see a change. I 
 shall be with you the next week. Mr. Hogeboom left 
 this on Sunday last. I beg my best respects to Mrs. Webb 
 and Vroman s family. Fish begs to be remembered. I 
 am, Dr Sir, Your sincere friend, 
 
 HENRY LIVINGSTON. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Claverack. 
 
428 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 AGREEMENT. 
 
 This is to Certify that we the subscribers have this day 
 agreed with Stephen Hogeboom Esqr., and Genl. Samuel 
 B. Webb in manner following: We engage and insure that 
 the ten tickets, the numbers of which are hereafter written, 
 draw the sum of thirty-four pounds exclusive of the fifteen 
 per cent deduction. 1 All deficiency of thirty-four pounds 
 to be paid to Stephen Hogeboom by Samuel B. Webb 
 immediately after drawing of said Lottery; viz. New York 
 City Lottery, which is to commence drawing on the first 
 Monday of May, 1791. The numbers are as follows 13,019, 
 13,025, 13,026, 13,027, 13,028, 13,033, 13,036, 13,038, 
 13,041 and 13,042. In witness whereof we have hereunto 
 affixed our Names in Claverack, this i8th day of April, 
 1791. ELIHU CHAUNCEY GOODRICH. 
 
 JOHN S. VAN RENSSELAER. 
 
 VlSIT TO JOSEPH BARRELL. 2 
 
 June 12, 1791. 
 
 Was politely received at dinner by Mr. Barrell and 
 family, who shewed me his large and elegant arrangements 
 for amusement and philosophic experiments. His birds 
 played in a globe surrounded with a globe of water in which 
 the fish play. He has an excellent portrait of Dr. Cooper, 
 from the original with the Governor. He has an original 
 of Mr. Clarke. He has a variety of paintings, engravings, 
 
 1 From this point to the signatures is in the MS. of Webb. The 
 tickets were the property of Stephen Hogeboom, and for them and this 
 "insurance," Webb gave other ten tickets, equal to 20. 
 
 2 From Diary of Rev. William Bentley, I. 264. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 429 
 
 and representations in clay from China. He was an 
 adventurer in the first voyage to the back parts of America 
 [Columbia River], and has several great curiosities. His 
 apparatus for experimental philosophy is good, especially 
 for electricity. He has a good library. The house is ele 
 gant in all its furniture. His garden is beyond any ex 
 ample I have seen. A young grove is growing in the back 
 ground, in the middle of which is a pond, decorated with 
 four ships at anchor, and a marble figure in the centre. 
 The Chinese manner is mixed with the European in the 
 summer house, which fronts the houses below the flower 
 gardens. Below is the hot house. In the apartment above 
 are his flowers admitted more freely to the air, and above, 
 a summer house with every convenience. The squares are 
 decorated with marble figures as large as life. No expence 
 is spared to render the whole amusing, instructive, and 
 friendly. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, June 27th, 1791. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Your things went from here this day week, on board 
 Butler, the coaster. I hope by this they are safe arrived, 
 with the two pair shoes from Jones which I have debited 
 you the making. The fish I have also sent. I should like 
 several barrels of flour if convenient. Jack Webb is re 
 turned from Stamford; found the old gentleman in better 
 health, and says he has taken the deed in your and his 
 name. Parson Samuel Lockwood died up at New Lebanon 
 pool. Its said he has made Billy his heir. He has left a 
 handsome estate. All my affairs remain as they did when 
 
43O FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 you left me. We have not heard a word from you since 
 Jack and Chester parted with you. You are too neglect 
 ful in answering letters. I hope the Attorney that is now 
 collecting my affairs in your vicinity will be more vigilant 
 and attentive than my former attornies. Woodhouse s 
 note is in the hands of Maj. Sill s heirs. 1 The rest you 
 know. I hope the debt against Thrasher is secured. I 
 wish you would enquire after one Eliakim Flint, a cooper, 
 somewhere up your world. Tell your good Mrs. Webb 
 and sister Jenny we mourned at parting with them very 
 much. We had a clever ride to farm and back; got home 
 in fine season for dinner. Found Sally anxious for our 
 return. Jack tells me you was unfortunate enough to take 
 the worse road thro the green woods ; the best is bad enough ; 
 but the road Jack came back in is better he says than the 
 one you stumbled on. Remember me most tenderly and 
 affectionately to all the good family of the Hogeboom 
 House, and believe me with sincerity, Yr. Affectionate 
 Brother, 
 
 JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Clavarack, State of New 
 York. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, 3<Dth June, 1791. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 Since you left this I have been to Stanford to see the old 
 gentleman. I found him rather out of health, tho I com- 
 
 1 Richard Sill, who entered the Continental army in the Quarter 
 master s and Paymaster s Departments, became aide to Lord Stirling, 
 and thus attained the rank of major. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 43! 
 
 pleted the business by giving him the supplies he wanted, 
 and took the deed in your and my name. He soon must 
 take his departure. He desired to be remembered affec 
 tionately to you. I told him that it was probable that 
 you would see him; there is some repairs wanting, [on] 
 which I chose to see you previous to making. 
 
 I am arranging every matter of mine so as to be ready in 
 October either to go the West Indies, or some where with 
 you. For I must confess that I am very sick of this place 
 for many reasons. There is no prospect that I see at 
 present of our friends closing his affairs. 
 
 State paper has risen here. I hope should I not go to 
 the West Indies, that you may fall on some plan that will 
 be to our mutual advantage. 
 
 I yesterday went over to Hartford, and have got Mr. 
 John W. Lothrop to take out administration on our father 
 and mother s estate: so promise myself it will not be long 
 before these matters are closed. 
 
 The family are all well and desire to be affectionately 
 remembered to you all. They as well as myself are 
 anxious to hear from you, how you got home. Tell Killian 
 that I wish very much to see him, and will write him by the 
 first private opportunity. Remember me particular to our 
 worthy friend, the Dear Lady, and those of our friends 
 who think proper to enquire after me. I wish you to tell 
 me name of the man that is your gunsmith in New York. 
 Write me if you please as soon as convenient. Believe me 
 to be with sincere affection your Brother, 
 
 JOHN WEBB. 
 
 I wish you to write me what I had better do with Pen- 
 dleton s matter. Should you go to New York I also could 
 
432 FAMILYLETTERS 
 
 wish you to call on Capt. Peter Schermerhorn, and see 
 whether John McQueen and Colo. Saml Hammond have 
 removed to East Florida. I am informed that they have. 
 If so, I loose six hundred pounds sterling. You must re 
 member me affectionately to my good sister and the family. 
 Having a little leisure this afternoon I have been out to 
 shoot a few woodcock for breakfast in the morning; the 
 young have got to be very fine. I have much to say, but 
 as I have one of my heavy hours come on I will leave it. I 
 intend on Monday next to pay the farm at Coalchester a 
 visit; then I have only a few days business, when I shall 
 continue there till all agree upon some plan. For I am 
 determined to leave this in October, if I go to the West 
 Indies in my own vessell. May God bless you all. My 
 brother informs me that your trunks are gone on some 
 time since to New York. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Clavarack, State of New 
 York. 1 
 
 FROM STEPHEN HOGEBOOM. 
 
 CLAVERACK, I August, 1791. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have received your letter of the 25th instant, in which 
 I perceive the difficulty flung in the way of answering the 
 orders. If this had been generally done, there would not 
 be so much room for complaint. However I am persuaided, 
 as you observe in your letter, that the treasurer 2 or some 
 
 1 The postage from Fairfield was 3/8. 
 
 2 Gerardus Bancker was treasurer from 1778 to 1798, and had 
 charge also of the Land Office. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 433 
 
 of his clarks are concearned in the purchasing of those 
 securities. 
 
 I have received a perticular information last Thursday, 
 just after the mail had gone down, which I wanted to com 
 municate to you with all dispatch, and wrote a letter im 
 mediately, sent Butler down to Hudson, to send it with a 
 vessel. It was a probabillity of a speculation to be made 
 within the City of New York, that there was the tenth day 
 of this month in the treasurer s office certificates in the 
 name of Genl. Ellexander McDougal to the amount of two 
 thousand nine hundred and ninety-seven pounds. As 
 they had laid there so long, and the General being dead, 
 some means might perhaps be divised to procure them. 
 This information I had of Colo. John McKinstrey, 1 who 
 had a perticular list sent to him. I promised him if I suc 
 ceeded, that he should have one-half of the profits, and I 
 will divide my profits with you, if you can negotiate this 
 business. No time ought to be lost, and with great pre 
 caution it ought to be undertaken. Colo. McKinstrey 
 also told me that his list had Richard Mulherins name for 
 a note of between six and seven pounds. This is also 
 likely. You may purchase, if it is the merchant at New 
 York. This will require proper investigation, for he has 
 been part of his time in the war with the British in New 
 York. 
 
 Killie set of last Monday morning for Susquehannah, 
 and have not heard a word of him since. The most of 
 those persons he has in view to purchase from he will be 
 able to get identified by Colo. McKinstrey after his return, 
 agreable to what you mentioned in your letter. 
 
 1 Served in the New York State militia. 
 
434 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 I believe I have forgot to put on the memorandum the 
 names of David Bagley and Joseph Lyon, for to make per- 
 ticular inquiry respecting their pay. David Bagley en 
 tered first in Gansevoort s Regiment and was exchanged 
 after he had gone into Vanschaick s Regiment. Joseph 
 Lyon entered first in Colo. Gansevoort s Regiment, and 
 from that into Colo. Vanschaicks Regiment. 1 They both 
 have pay due by the account I have. The latter died in 
 the service, and had entered for during the war, which has 
 been made [to] appear by the oath of his father, and there 
 fore ought to be entitled to soldier s bounty lands. Mr. 
 Bay took this deposition of his father down to N. York, 
 and had layed it before the Commissioners of the Land 
 Office, in order to have his Name inserted for the State 
 Bounty lands (as it seemed his name had been omitted). 
 Capt. Connolly, I believe, advised with Mr. Bay respect 
 ing the lands for Joseph Lyon. I wish you would inquire 
 into this, wheather it has been allowed by the Commission 
 ers or not. 
 
 Colo. McKinstrey also informed me that his last list gave 
 an account of three hundred pounds due to a religious 
 society in Orange County. He did not incline to let me 
 know from whom he had the list, but believe it was from 
 one of the Treasuror s clerks. He desired perticularly not 
 to have his name mentioned in any of this business. As 
 you have business in the Jerseys, it will not be much out 
 of your way to make an attempt to purchase the last men 
 tioned sum. You can make an exact calculation what they 
 are worth, so that you may offer sums in purchasing with 
 safety. If those two sums could be properly taken hold of, 
 
 1 He died in the hospital at New Windsor at the end of the war. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 435 
 
 it might render a good speculation. However I make no 
 doubt but what you will do what is necessary in the prem 
 ises, and am, sir, your sincere Friend and Humble Servant, 
 
 STEPHEN HOGEBOOM. 
 
 Addressed: Gen l Samuel B. Webb, New York. At Colo. Platt s. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 My Dear Brother: WETHERSFIELD, 4th August, 1791. 
 
 I am glad to hear you are once more in New York. Can 
 you do anything by saying a good word for me to A[lsop], 
 King, or any other? What a cruel dil[emma] I am in; the 
 Horror s are almost upon me. Yet I endeavor to listen to 
 the Voice of Philosophy. But reflect but for a moment, 
 and you will allow it s the last situation one would be in. 
 Accept my thanks for your proposal of sending me the 
 flour. But as you have to pay cash for it, it s not worth 
 while; there is a great plenty here. I hope your s and 
 Sister Jenny s baggage arrived safe, but I do not find that 
 in all your letters you say a word on the subject. Please 
 to mention the particulars in your next. Let me urge 
 your very serious attention to the enquiry of my Debts in 
 your Quarter. If I remember right there is Thos. Wright, 
 Seth Boardman, Lemuel Woodhouse, Eliphalet Flint, Asa- 
 hel Thrasher, General Moylan, George Smith, Ashbel 
 Webster. Write me freely and fully. I beg you would 
 return me the gun; it will answer me, and save me buy 
 ing a new one for Nat Fullerton, who is obliged to keep 
 arms. And if you can, as you are now at York, send me 
 on my Gordon s History and Stern s Works, you will very 
 much oblige me. I wish you would write me the cost of 
 
436 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 your saddle and the maker s name, as I must send and get 
 me one made. Do you like yours? I am determined to 
 have my affairs bro t to a close if there is any such thing 
 in the Book. Depend upon it, let any one tell you what 
 they please, it s not my fault it s not done. Should you 
 write me ever again, let me beg you to write me an answer 
 to all my letters since you was here. I hope to be able to 
 arrange my affairs so as to be at New York in the month of 
 September. I have the pleasure to tell you all the family 
 are well, and desired to be remembered in the most tender, 
 loving and affectionate manner. I am in hopes Sally will 
 either go to Colo. Worthington, Springfield, to Norwich, 
 or some where to spend a month. She is a charming girl, 
 but I think it s full time she went abroad. When did you 
 see Henry Livingston? Did your salt fish arrive in good 
 order and to your mind? I fear the cask was not so good 
 and tight as it ought to be. I hope you will not forget 
 you promised us a visit early this fall. I am with love to 
 Sister, Jo, Jenny, Killian and all the circle. Yr Most 
 Affectionate Br., Jos. WEBB. 
 
 C - S - has been here and in town this long time. 
 She is a vain strange creature as you ever saw; but more 
 of this anon. I may have the pleasure of seeing you. 
 Adieu. Adieu. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Octo. i8th, 1791. 
 
 Tuesday Evening. 
 Dear Brother s 
 
 I have just returned from Hartford, and was surprised 
 to find Jane and Grace and the onions not gone. Mrs. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 437 
 
 Wfebb] says Stillman sent word he should go from the 
 wharf in a hour. She dispatched Nat. [Fullerton] with all 
 the necessaries, but it seamed a Mr. Clap on board was 
 not willing to take Jane. Stillman said but little, they 
 followed to Prat s ferry but all in vain. I am chagrined 
 on account of yourself, and as I find my Mrs. W[ebb] ex 
 tremely anxious, for fear I shall think she was neglectful. 
 
 I am sorry but I hope some other boat at Hartford will 
 soon be going. I thot it my duty to let you know it. Mrs. 
 W[ebb] is fully persuaded it was contrived to disappoint us 
 in carrying off Jane. The family are all well. The family 
 beg if convenient for the three following plays : The Heiress, 
 The Gamester, 1 and The Bell s Stratagem. 2 
 Yr Afft. Frd and Br., 
 
 JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 General Webb or Major John Webb. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, Saturday Morning, 10 o clock, 
 
 1 9th November, 1791. 
 My Dear Brother: 
 
 Yours of the i6th instant I have just received. I am 
 sorry when I wrote to Jack I did not write him, that I had 
 copied all the letters on purpose to show Barrell or Jack, 
 should they arrive during ScovePs defence; which was 
 fortunate, as Barrel arrived on Thursday, and immedi 
 ately enquired for your Brother Jack or the letters. I 
 was happy to have the copies by him. He askt me what 
 Brother Jack would do. I could not even hint. 
 
 1 By Edward Moore. 
 
 2 By Mrs. Hannah Cowley. 
 
438 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 He read the letters over and over, shook his head about 
 Slaves. In short but little was said, only begged me to 
 forward on Brother Jack s letters without fail by next 
 stage. I am happy that Scovel has arrived in season. I 
 shall send a boy to put them in the mail this evening. I 
 confess to you I fear to advise; its too delicate a subject, 
 unless one is more master of it than I am of his prospects. 
 Here I am wholly ignorant. If the climate will suit his 
 constitution, the prospect to me appears great. If I was 
 a young man, I should not hesitate for it s nothing to go 
 back and to Dimerary. The prospect of consignments - 
 But the Plantation appears a certain fortune if a man 
 understands his business, and will make English rum. See 
 what the gentleman has done from Boston at Surinam, by 
 going himself and carrying an English distiller. 
 
 Will it not be worth Jack s while to collect a valuable 
 cargo and go on the spot, and examine and see for him[self], 
 and conclude as circumstances appears? Indeed I wish 
 not to advise. I wish him to consult Barrell, and follow 
 his advice. Barrel will not leave him in the lurch, if he 
 follows his advice. I believe if the climate should suit 
 Brother Jack, he s well calculated for such an undertaking; 
 but his leaving his friends and native country is still a very 
 great thing. Perhaps the circumstances of your family 
 may permit your comeing on as far as here with him, or to 
 Boston. It s really time that he persued some steady fixt 
 plan. 
 
 I fully believe it s not riches alone that makes one happy; 
 a genteel sufficiency is enough better here than to pursue 
 foreign climes. But after all I cant say what is best and 
 what to advise. 
 
 You better can than myself, as I have long been shut 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 439 
 
 out of the busy world of business. As to your Harness, 
 the brasses are all this day compleated. Denny takes out 
 a quantity of leather on Aionday, and we are doing all we 
 can to hurry it. But the leather Denny expected is not 
 good enough, and therefore waits for a better prospect 
 next week. As to coming to Clavarac, Mrs. Webb and 
 Sally wish it, and I am get[ting] ready to go to Boston, or 
 with you. Mrs. W[ebb] has not weaned her child yet, 
 but expects to soon. Its full time Sally went abroad. I 
 am sensible she is extremely thankful for your polite invita 
 tion, and doubts not it will be agreeable. But she s a 
 little anxious about being left there, as it s so difficult to 
 return at any time. The Chester families are all well, and 
 very attentive and friendly to me. We have lately had 
 several friendly parties at supper. Colo. Qhester] is a 
 Jewel. His wife is very forward on her passage, like your 
 Mrs. W[ebb]. Its thot her disorder will fall into her Arms, 
 as we trust your good Ladies will. It s a fine, happy, de 
 lightful season. I send you two or three newspapers. 
 Perhaps you may find something to amuse you. But let 
 Jack bring them back if its convenient, as I keep my papers. 
 I trust Jane and Grace are with you before this. I in 
 tended to have seen Riley at Rocky Hill and paid him the 
 passage. But particular business prevented. Give Mrs. 
 Webb and all the families love to every branch of the 
 family. Sally scolds at Jenny for not writing her. Be 
 lieve me to be Sincerely, Your affectionate Brother, 
 
 JOSEPH W T EBB. 
 
 What I mean by getting ready is some old accounts and 
 settlements, some debts arranged I fear may be outlawed. 
 My sleigh and harness, &c., &c. I hope to come and now 
 
440 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 expect it; but should business prevent, and the situation 
 of your wife prevent, are circumstances to be allowed for. 
 However I shall soon be able to write you again. Did 
 Brother Jack receive a letter I sent by Heman Hoffman ? 
 Scovel drives with a variety of other affairs, besides a sick 
 head ache almost crazes me. So for better or worse I 
 send this letter. I could not write another, or even look 
 over this. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM S. LIVINGSTON. 
 
 NEW YORK, November 2Oth, 1791. 
 Dear Webb: 
 
 I should have acknowledged the receipt of your letter 
 long since, but as I could not give satisfactory accounts, 
 delayed it till now. Mr. Bleecker and myself waited upon 
 the Treasurer. I requested a Categorical Answer from 
 him whether he would or would not issue the Certificates. 
 I found him somewhat pliant. In this moment I thought 
 best to alarm his fears. The threats of entering a Protest, 
 and an Intimation given him that his mode and manner of 
 doing business of the same nature differed with different 
 people, and could be attributed to but one source, had the 
 desired effect. He promised Mr. Bleecker to issue them, 
 and I suppose ere this you have received them. 
 
 Receiving no answer from Mr. Duyckinck about the 
 Wench, I wrote a letter to Mr. Kirkpatrick, a gentleman 
 of our profession in Brunswick, and desired Mr. Voorhies 
 who was the bearer of it to give him the other papers. He 
 will take the necessary steps immediately for the recovery 
 of the Wench. And I think she will be here this week. 
 You have nothing to apprehend from your Friend Cary. I 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 44! 
 
 shall give you a particular account of my interview with 
 him in my next. I am preparing for the press and am in a 
 hurry. Present our best respects to Mrs. Webb and all 
 friends. I am Yours sincerely, 
 
 WM. S. LIVINGSTON. 
 
 FROM PETER VAN SCHAICK. 
 
 KINDERHOOK, 29 December, 1791. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Dirck Goes s mills were yesterday struck off at vendue 
 for fifty-four pounds, but as the late sheriff was on the 
 point of going to New York, the deed yet remains to be 
 executed. In order to prepare it, it is absolutely necessary 
 that I have the warrant upon which the seizure or levy was 
 made, or at least a copy of it. Mr. Hogeboom says he 
 returned it to you. If when you send it to me (which I 
 beg may be without delay) you would point out the act 
 upon which it was grounded I should be oblidged to you, as 
 I am informed that the levy was made antecedent to the 
 existing act. 
 
 As to Mr. Gridley, there is great grumbling in our town 
 against him, occasioned by the tax now collecting for his 
 delinquincy, while he himself is also busy in levying the 
 arrears. Thus the candle is lit at both ends. I sincerely 
 wish I could have a full state of this whole business, that I 
 might examine all the acts which relate to it. As to the 
 Poor tax, which he contends he is accountable for to the 
 Overseers of the Poor and not to you, I think you told me 
 that in the proceedings of the Supervisors it was blended 
 with our portion of the contingent county charge. This 
 may be very material, and I wish I could know precisely 
 
442 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 how this fact is. A transcript of the Supervisors minutes 
 might be satisfactory. Pray how was the warrant to the 
 Collector? Was the Poor tax distinguished or not from 
 the rest? You will excuse me if, for want of knowing the 
 common methods of proceeding in these cases, I should 
 ask questions not pertinent. 
 
 If you should have occasion to come this way, pray call 
 in and take a bit of mutton with me. Yours sincerely, 
 
 PETER VAN SCHAICK. 
 
 Endorsed: Mr. Van Alen will call on you tomorrow for an answer. 
 
 FROM JAMES FAIRLIE. 
 
 Mr. Fairlie s Compliments to Genl. Webb and requests 
 his acceptance of a very small saddle of venison. Mrs. 
 and Mr. F. are happy to hear of Mrs. W. being so far on 
 the recovery from her late indisposition. They desire 
 their compliments to Mrs. Webb. 
 
 ALBANY, January 25, 1792. 
 
 Addressed: General Webb, Claverack. Hon d by Capt. Huyck. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, February 21, 1792. 
 
 Eight o clock. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Yours of the i8th instant I received from Mr. Goodrich 
 yesterday at nine o clock in the morning. Had the letter 
 arrived one hour sooner I could have forwarded those 
 Boston ones by a safe and good private opportunity. None 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 443 
 
 can now be found untill the stage on Thursday, when I 
 shall take care to forward them. 
 
 Brother Jack has gone to Boston, and since which I have 
 not heard from him. Goodrich and Ranslaer went over 
 to my house and drank tea last evening, and will dine with 
 me one day this week. The venison is very acceptable. 
 
 Sally reckons much on paying you a visit this winter; 
 so does Mrs. W[ebb]. But when you recollect in addition 
 to what I write to you on the 8th and I3th, in addition, 
 that all our Book Debts in this State of more than six 
 year s standing will be outlawed the first of next May, you 
 will readily make every allowance for the seeming neglect 
 of our not comeing. 
 
 HARTFORD, Tuesday morning I o clock. 
 
 Mr. Hogeboom has just called on me and says he has 
 been down to Wethersfield, but must return immediately. 
 I have endeavored to persuade him to go back, but to no 
 purpose. He pleads urgent business back. I am extremly 
 sorry, for I look upon him a very worthy young fellow. I 
 have engaged the slippers for Sister Webb and will forward 
 them by Mr. Goodrich. The salmon in season, can get 
 you any quantity. I hope the harness will please you; I 
 think it s good. I believe Brother Jack never saw it. The 
 nuts I sent as soon as I could get them here; they were 
 extremely scarce. I sent a barrel to Jos B[arrell], Boston. 
 I should be happy to see you with your wife, New comer, 
 or any of the Hogeboom family, and wish you was here 
 now, as we are all well and happy (except Mrs. W[ebb] is 
 without a woman to take care of the children, but I hope 
 this will be but for a few days, tho its more difficult to get 
 a good one after the Accident I have related to you.) Poor 
 
444 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 Sam Burr of Hartford, on a visit to Wethersfield last Sat 
 urday, died in a fit. But it s fine and healthy. 
 
 I do not quite give up the thoughts of a runing visit to 
 you, but it must be a short one on account of my affairs at 
 home. But I much wish to see you if but one hour. But 
 yet do not depend on my coming for a moment, for a 
 thousand reasons I have given and you know. I am, 
 dear Sam, with love to all, Yr affectionate friend and 
 brother, 
 
 JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Clavarack. Per Mr. K. 
 Hogeboom. 
 
 To WILLIAM HENRY LuDLow. 1 
 
 CLAVERACK, Tuesday, 21 st February, 1792. 
 Sir: 
 
 I am sorry to inform you, that on mature deliberation 
 I find myself compelled to say that the terms of sale for 
 the house of your s which I now occupy are so far beyond 
 my expectations (and of course in my judgment too high), 
 that I cannot agree with either of the propositions. I 
 sincerely wish you may meet with a good sale. At the 
 same time beg leave to observe if you should not sell, that 
 I shall esteem it a favor I may have the refusal for renting, 
 or if you should hereafter alter your terms, that you would 
 be so obligeing as to give me information thereof. I am, 
 sir, with Esteem your Most Obdt. Servt., 
 
 SAML. B. WEBB. 
 
 1 Son of Henry Ludlow, who removed from New York city to Clave- 
 rack. A sister, Sarah, was wife of Richard Morris. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 445 
 
 FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON. 
 
 NEW YORK, March 17, 1792. 
 Dear General: 
 
 Capt. Ten Broek delivered me your favor with the bundle 
 of orders, all which I will do the best I can for you. They 
 have not been presented as yet, owing to Bancker s being 
 absolutely engaged in the Land office for these last two 
 days past. Their is a law which has had its second read 
 ing to direct the reissue (?) about Certificates for military 
 services. I will send you the law by Ten Broek. I now 
 stand so fair with Mr. B. that I believe I can do you a 
 friendship, if any person can. 
 
 March 18, Sunday Evening. 
 
 Your favor of the 15 I received this moment. I shall 
 attend to every particular. The matter of Duer : is 
 almost come to a crisis; tomorrow he is to meet his cred 
 itors, but be assured his failure will ruin very many. 
 
 Mr. Radcliff 2 who has brought down a letter from our 
 county requesting Schuyler, Van Ness and myself, to urge 
 the idea of a relinquishment of Jay, and Yates to come for 
 ward, 3 has had no effect, as Mr. R[adcliff] tells me that the 
 gentlemen who were so precipitate in supporting Jay will 
 not mention the matter to him, and talk of certain success. 
 (I am not of that number), for I have called on Yates and 
 beg him again to come forward; but he tells me his friends 
 
 1 William Duer, whose failure dragged down many others. 
 
 2 Probably Jacob Radcliff. 
 
 3 Robert Yates had been the opposition candidate in 1789, but 
 George Clinton won the election by a vote of 6,391 to 5)9^2. In I79 2 
 Jay was run and lost by one hundred and eight votes, receiving 8,332 
 against 8,440 for Clinton. Three years later Jay and Yates were the 
 candidates, and Jay was elected. 
 
446 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 advise him not. This I believe; for sure I am it never was 
 their intentions. He is not the man for them and I, who 
 hate Clinton, must now out of revenge take him up; for I 
 am sure Yates would come forward if he might be left to 
 judge for himself. I shall write you freely soon. Mr. 
 [Jacob] Ford, I hear, is to be held up for Senator by Jay s 
 party. We propose my brother John Livingston. 1 
 
 The new road that A/tr. Hogeboom mentioned to me, I 
 could not get our members to agree in; for which reason 
 Mr. Ford moved at my request for 200 for the long bridge 
 at Millers and Doctor Vrooman. The Commission Law 
 has passed our House, but I fear the Senate. We have also 
 got 800 for Kinderhook Bridge. 
 
 I have no time to say more, all things in this city in con 
 fusion. I hear your friend Platt is some what injured by 
 Duer, and many others, particularly Mrs. McCarty, the 
 Bawdy House keeper, and Parson Moore. I am sincerely 
 and aify. Yours, 
 
 H. LIVINGSTON. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Claverack, Columbia 
 County. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, May I7th, 1792. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I have the pleasure to tell you that we had a most agree 
 able pleasant jaunt to Pettibone the first day. I beg you 
 to accept my thanks for your and family s attention. We 
 parted on Monday morning before breakfast, and Sally rode 
 on horse back in three hours and a few minutes to Lee s at 
 
 1 Livingston was elected. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 447 
 
 New Hartford, where I rested and spent three hours to 
 examine my tan works buildings, &c., &c., and after all 
 that arrived home before sundown, and all hands drank 
 tea with our mutual friend Colo. Chester, who behaves up 
 to the Charm. I was surprised to find Sally stand the 
 jaunt so well. My Mrs. Webb was much disappointed 
 that I did not bring on any of the young ladies. Tell Mr. 
 Hogeboom and lady, that if they will pay us a visit we shall 
 be happy to see them, and they will find in Colo. Chester, 
 the old lady, Mr. Mitchell, and some others, a pretty circle 
 of friends that will be happy to welcome them here. 
 Brother Jack arrived home on Tuesday evening. He 
 thinks of writing you by the stage, so I shall refer you to 
 him for the business you mentioned. I have enough to do 
 to crack one s brains, but I endeavor to keep steady and 
 do the best I can. Wadsworth got home last Thursday. 
 I saw him yesterday, but not a word passed on business. 
 I drank tea with him and all was clever. We are cold 
 friends, yet we are Friends. We are so-so, and so-so is 
 pretty well. I have written Gerry G. Beekman this post. 
 I hope he will come in with the rest. I hardly know which 
 way to turn. I have valuable Friends and connections 
 here, but nothing can I determine untill I converse freely 
 with Wadsworth. Jo. Barrel is agoing to build in Charles- 
 town, on Cobble Hill, and gives over the thoughts of going 
 Southard. This is rather another disappointment, but I 
 am used to them. My Mrs. Webb is sorry she did not go 
 along with me; I confess I am sorry. Tell the good Doctor 
 I am much pleased with him, therefore he must be pleased 
 with me. So am I with his wife, and indeed all the family. 
 I think you may be happy if you can form some line of 
 business to support an income. Is there the least prospect 
 
448 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 of my having a sufficient run of business at Hudson, should 
 I buy a place there? I know where I shall settle. I be 
 lieve on the whole I shall do well to get thro with my busi 
 ness and settle down in this town. Depend upon it my 
 old business once settled, I should be able to do business to 
 much advantage, be respected, loved and honored. Such 
 cursed old Accounts to settle would make the Angel 
 Gabriel have enemies. They once settled, friends would be 
 as before. But to be honest I shall not hardly think of 
 any plan at present. I suppose any conjecture would be 
 wrong. I could go into Partnership at Hartford. I could 
 doubtless make a handsome affair of it, if I would go back 
 upon some new lands I have in Vermont. But the educa 
 tion of my family is a very serious matter. I cant think 
 of going to Boston or New York for many reasons. I am 
 quite at a loss. I am at present mighty happy in this old 
 mansion -- plenty and enjoy myself, all healthy, and in 
 fine spirits. Sally got home without the least fatigue and 
 met with a great number of friends and connections that 
 evening, but was urged to go to a grand Ball at Hartford 
 that same evening. But she wisely stayed at home, and 
 we had a happy jovial meeting. All seemed happy to meet 
 us. She feels with gratitude your politeness, and will 
 write her Aunt and the girls so soon as a good and private 
 opportunity offers, which I trust will be in a few days. 
 Has Henry Livingston got home? What said he about 
 me? How is your little daughter? When leisure and op 
 portunity offers, write. I show Jack your memorandum; 
 but he has since been to Hartford, but has said nothing to 
 me on the subject. Have you written by some private 
 opportunity to Eleazer Miller? Why cant you come and 
 spend some time with Kitty, and let us take Bones of our 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 449 
 
 Bones and make a party to Jo. Barrel, and we ll add Colo. 
 Chester. Barrel wishes it extremely, tho I believe he s 
 extreemly busy in His new buildings. I am with love to 
 the family, your aff. 
 
 J. WEBB. 
 
 Mrs. Ludlow was to have written or given Sally some 
 account of her situation, that I might acquaint Mrs. 
 Porter. She forgot it I suppose. You may tell her I will 
 do all she requests of me. Our salmon and shad fishery 
 continue fine. 
 
 FROM JAMES STUART. 
 
 NEW YORK, June I2th, 1792. 
 Sir: 
 
 I beg your pardon in omiting your oil, which I now send 
 with ten gallons brandy, doz. tea spoons, and child s 
 whistle, a band box. I wish I could likewise send you the 
 hams, but good ones is not to be had. Should any come to 
 market I will not forget you and Coin. Livingston. I am 
 sorry for the los of the wine, for I have frequently warned 
 the cooper of them. I hope you do not think it a neglect 
 of mine. 
 
 We are all don over, over, over. O, with respect to 
 Govener, thay throwed out the Otsego votes becaus that 
 they had made use of Tow Twine insted of tape in seling 
 up as the Law requires, or some such foolish thing, not 
 forgeting that Otsego had no sherrif. While I am writing 
 Coin. B. is discharging his cannon for joy of one hunder 
 and eight majority. I am with respect to Mrs. Webb, and 
 hope this wil fined you all in health, as I am, &c., &c. 
 
 JAMES STUART. 
 
450 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JAMES STUART. 
 
 NEW YORK, June 21, 1792. 
 Kind Sir: 
 
 I received thirty dollars from Mr. Hogeboom, for which 
 I return you my thanks, and now send you eight hams. 
 Thair was 12 came from Brunswick, but Capt. H. Livings 
 ton requested four. If thay pleas you, and should more 
 come to hand, I will retain some for my friends order. My 
 wife sends the fringe, and if thair should be any thing more 
 that Mrs. Webb should want she has no more than to lay 
 her commands. 
 
 By this time you have received the things by Hathaway , 
 as likewise my letter. We have had a glorious meting 
 about the Govener as you will see by the papers; as thay 
 will inform you much better then I can, I will conclude. 
 Wishing you and yours health and happiness I am, Dear 
 Sir, yours, 
 
 JAMES STUART. 
 
 N. B. if it is your wish I will pay Mr. Van Voorhies 
 bill. 
 
 FROM GILBERT ASPINWALL.* 
 
 NEW YORK, July 29th, 1792. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have received the certificates from Mr. Bancker for 
 the greater part of the orders you forwarded me, and shall 
 send them to you by the first good private opportunity. 
 
 1 Son of John Aspinwall, of Flushing, who died of a paralytic stroke, 
 July 15, 1774, aged sixty-eight. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEYWEBB 45! 
 
 The postage would be too heavy if I was to send them by 
 post. 
 
 I have requested in a letter to you (inclosed with the 
 Certificates) that you would purchase for me, provided you 
 thought he would make a good chaise horse, the three 
 year old colt I saw at Claverack, if he can be had at 45 
 delivered to you, or 50 if the owner will deliver him to me 
 here sound. If the owner will take 45 I will be much 
 obliged to you to send him by some of your packets, and 
 I will send up the money immediately. If the Grey Horse 
 can be had at the same price, or even 5 more, I would 
 like him quite as well. 
 
 With best respects to Mrs. Webb and your Brother I am, 
 Dr. Sir, your friend, 
 
 G. ASPINWALL. 
 
 FROM RICHARD PLATT. 
 
 NEW YORK, Thursday, 25 th October, 1792. 
 Dear General: 
 
 I have been long in expectation of the pleasure of seeing 
 you, or should have written you ere now. Last Saturday 
 the Commodore shipped Pompey for home, but I dont 
 know the Captain s name, I hope he has arrived safe 
 and sound. Many thanks are due for him. I did not go 
 to the Brush myself. Old Corn[elius] and J. Winter went 
 and had a pleasing jaunt of a week, and got in company 
 with Skinner 10 brace. 
 
 I hope you mean soon to visit New York. Till when I 
 am, Dr. Sir, with complts. to Mrs. Webb and Brother 
 Jack, as always your friend and Servt., 
 
 RICHARD PLATT. 
 
452 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 Dear Brother: WETHERSFIELD, April i, 1793. 
 
 I have written you by several different routes; not cer 
 tain that one will arrive to you. I almost wish I had sent 
 off express, but the uncertainty of General Webb being at 
 Claverack, the expense and a variety of matters. You 
 must know Trumbull expected you over the first week in 
 March, and is much disappointed you did not come. 
 Finally I sent off Jerry express for you. You not comeing 
 I was obliged to meet the Auditors, and was happy enough 
 to be as well prepared as Barny and Jesse, and rather better. 
 They moved for an adjournment on Account of General 
 Webb s having a particular book which Barny says he gave 
 General Webb, which he promised to return him but has 
 not; therefore if there is such a book, it must be exhibited. 
 Therefore you will be here on Tuesday morning at nine 
 o clock, with all the papers and exhibits. It will be well 
 to be in due season so as to plan together. I have much to 
 say, but am crazy for want of money, Money, Money. I 
 hope we shall all meet once more together. Sally is yet 
 in Boston. Our family mighty well and tolerable happy. 
 Next week we shall have plenty of salmon. I would send 
 your garden seeds if I had an opportunity. Jerry got 
 home Saturday evening. Let me advise you to get your 
 plank sawed immediately, rough plained dressed, piled up; 
 the April weather will season it beyond all description. 
 Mind to let the air pass thro, but covered from rain; but 
 let the air have free passage. I hope I have said enough 
 to make you come in season. Bring me some corn sallad 
 seed. Farewell. I am your affy. fd and Brother, 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 453 
 
 FROM BENJAMIN MOORE. 
 
 COXSACKIE, 6th September, 1794. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Yours of this day I have received. Am sorry for the 
 loss of Mr. Hogeboom, and particularly so, when I consider 
 that it debars us of the company of our friends. However 
 shall expect you by the time last mentioned at farthest. 
 I am happy to hear that you have a letter from the Doctor, 
 otherwise there would have been great anxiety for their 
 welfare, &c. 
 
 I observe you have had some sport among the pigeons 
 upon the old ground. One thing you may promise your 
 self when here, that is to have a little fun among the black 
 birds, and probably ducks. Please to present my love to 
 Mrs. Webb and others of our friends at Claverack and be 
 lieve, Dr. Sir, your sincerest Friend, 
 
 BENJ. MOORE. 
 
 Peaches are a fruit that we cannot get at this place. 
 
 FROM AMBROSE SPENCER. 1 
 Dear General: 
 
 The rule on the sheriff can only be to return the Exami 
 nation in 20 days, and he has a right to make the usual 
 return that the goods are on hand, unsold for want of 
 bidders. If after this the sheriff proceeds, in my opinion 
 
 1 In February, 1804, Ambrose Spencer was appointed a Puisne Jus 
 tice in place of Jacob Radcliff, who resigned; and in 1819 became 
 Chief Justice in the Supreme Court of Judicature. He was as capable 
 a politician as judge, and took an active part in a very active period 
 in New York politics. One of his opponents was Chancellor Kent. 
 
454 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 he acts like a rascal, and I should not hesitate to tell him 
 so. I shall see him in a few days. I am this moment 
 getting off for Da[torn]. 
 
 Yours in haste, A. SPENCER. 
 
 [HUDSON], Deer. 24th, 1798. 
 
 FROM HEZEKIAH L. HosMER. 1 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I have only time to inform you that I have this moment 
 received your letter and Mrs. Vrooman s, and that I will 
 immediately attend to her request. To draw a will 2 such 
 as she desires will take some time and be the result of 
 considerable reflection. This will retard it some days. 
 
 We yesterday ordered 1200 copies of the new dispatches 
 communicated to us by the President to be printed. 3 I 
 shall inclose them as soon as possible. Give my love to all 
 friends. H. L. HOSMER. 
 
 [PHILADELPHIA,] January 22<d, 1799. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Hudson, New York. Free. 
 H. L. Hosmer. 
 
 FROM HEZEKIAH L. HOSMER. 
 
 My Dear Friend: 
 
 You may suppose perhaps from my long silence that I 
 have forgotten you and been unattentive to your wishes. 
 
 1 A lawyer and now representative in the Fifth Congress. He 
 does not appear to have had any previous service in the State legislature. 
 
 2 For Mrs. Wimple. 
 
 1 The papers on the relations with France, which included the 
 X. Y. Z. letters and Pickering s elaborate statement. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 455 
 
 In this, however, you would do me injustice. I have at 
 tended to your request and have almost cbmpleated the 
 will. I hope to be able to transmit it to you in a few days. 
 From the provisions of it you may suppose that it would 
 necessarily be a work of time, and here very little of our 
 time is unoccupied. 
 
 We yesterday passed in our House a bill to augment our 
 Navy by building six ships of 74 guns. This measure was 
 violently opposed, but at last carried by a majority of 
 twelve. 
 
 We have no news. Our papers are entirely barren or I 
 would inclose one. 
 
 Give my love to Mrs. Webb, Mrs. Vrooman, and all our 
 friends at Claverack. I am yours &c., 
 
 H. L. HOSMER. 
 
 February 1 2th, 1799. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 SALISBURY, 2ist February, 1800. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I received your friendly letter, dated I2th instant two 
 days since. It gave us great pleasure to hear that our 
 sister was comfortable, and that the child was. Please to 
 remember us to her, in which Mary joins. She, Mary, 
 arrived here on Sunday morning. 
 
 We should have been made happy to have you and your 
 friends have come instead of the letter, though I have so 
 frequently been told of your coming and been disappointed, 
 that I never shall believe that you intend coming till I see 
 you at my house. I expect to leave this for Hartford on 
 Monday next with Mary, and to return on Saturday; when, 
 
456 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 after you pay us a visit, I intend her to come and see her 
 aunt and friends, which she very much wishes. 
 
 I have been trying to purchase you a fat ox, but find it 
 extreemly difficult to [do] without purchasing a pair, as they 
 do not chuse to sell one alone. I am just informed that Mr. 
 Sedem has a pair. I intend seeing him, when I will write 
 you. 
 
 We left at your house our umbrella and a corn broom; be 
 so good if you see any of my neighbors to send them to us. 
 
 Grain in cash is much hire here than with you. 
 
 I suppose you have heard that Amos Bull has served a 
 Petition of Devorse on our Sister Abby. God bless them, 
 and take them to themselves. 
 
 I am, my Dear Brother, wishing you perfect happiness 
 and yours. Yours affectionately, 
 
 JOHN WEBB. 
 
 FROM DAVID THOMAS. 1 
 
 ALBANY, 8th March, 1800. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Yesterday the House determined against committing 
 the bill for annexing Columbia County to the eastern dis 
 trict. Mr. Van Renslair 2 then asked and obtained leave 
 to withdraw it. We have passed a bill to revise the 
 statutes of this state, but have not appointed the Commis 
 sioners. Judges Kent and Radcliff are spoken of, Judge 
 Yates and Mr. Emot 3 are also mentioned. We have also 
 passed a bill engaging to pay the debt assumed by Congress, 
 
 1 He represented Washington County in the Assembly, 1798-1800. 
 
 2 John Robert Van Rensselaer, of Columbia County. 
 
 3 Thomas Addis Emmet. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 457 
 
 which is equal to about 660,000 dollars specie. I was op 
 posed to it for several reasons. I believe the ballance 
 between the several states was unfairly struck, and am per 
 suaded, had we not been so precipitate in closing with this 
 proposal, one more advantageous would have been offered. 
 This appropriation will very materially affect our funds, 
 which are already very much exhausted. If a better bar 
 gain could have been obtained, or a probable prospect of it, 
 I think it bad polacy not to seek it before we involve our 
 selves in a debt so heavy and, as I believe, so unjust; but 
 as I am in the house, cannot enlarge. Shall be happy to 
 hear from you. Present my profound respects to Mrs. 
 Webb and all friends and accept the same yourself. From 
 your unfeigned friend, 
 
 DAVID THOMAS. 
 
 Addressed: General Samuel B. Webb, Claverack, Columbia County. 
 Sheriff Ten Broeck. 
 
 FROM MARY N. WEBB. 
 
 PLEASANT HILL/ I7th March, 1800. 
 Monday Morning. 
 
 My Dearest Uncle: 
 
 I have but a moment s time allowed me to enquire after 
 your health, after my affectionate Aunt Webb, and the 
 lovely children. As your Brother Mr. Hogeboom is below 
 and leaves us directly for home, I put off writing, not ex 
 pecting him here till afternoon. He has made us but a 
 short visit. Uncle and the family are well pleased with 
 him. I am sorry he could not stay and attend the Play with 
 us this evening. When you see Papa, Uncle, I will thank 
 
 1 Near Boston. 
 
458 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 you to tell him I am very well and happy. Your letter 
 gave Uncle and Aunt much pleasure. Could you have 
 seen the reception it met with I think it would induce you 
 to write often. I will be much obliged to you Uncle to 
 put the inclosed immediately into the Hudson post office. 
 I anticipate the pleasure of seeing you and your lovely 
 family next June. Till then I must bid you adieu. My 
 kind love to Aunt, and accept the heartfelt affection of 
 your niece, MARY N. WEBB. 
 
 FROM RICHARD PLATT. 
 
 NEW YORK, October I4th, 1800. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Enquiring of your health of our friend Jacob Renssalaer 
 a few days past I was very much gratified to hear it was 
 better than I was apprehensive of. I pray you, my good 
 sir, that it may continue and get as much better established 
 as possible from the nature of circumstances. 
 
 At last, after so many years of stagnation, I am in hopes 
 of being once more again free. I am now in the hands of 
 the Commissioners of Bankruptcy, and by the I3th of 
 next month my fate will be determined; but unless % of 
 my creditors in no. and Amt. will consent to a certificate 
 of discharge, it cannot be obtained. 
 
 Miss Aspinwall is now taking some of the medicine 
 prescribed by our late worthy friend Doctor Vrooman. 
 The prescription allots four equal parts to be put in a pint 
 of water each. She wishes me to enquire of you whether 
 there ought to be a continuation beyond the four pints 
 or not; in other words whether she should go on with 
 another quantity or portion of it. Be pleased to inform me 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 459 
 
 about this, and all other things relating to your interest, 
 &c. I am, Dr. Sir, with best wishes for your health and 
 happiness and that of your family, truly and sincerely 
 your friend, &c., RICHARD PLATT. 
 
 Mrs. Platt has within a few days presented me with a 
 fine little daughter, and she is in a fair way of recovery at 
 Flushing. I have now two boys and a girl living. 
 
 FROM DAVID A. OGDEN. 
 
 Sir: 
 
 Your letter addressed to David C. Ogden was forwarded 
 by me to David B. Ogden of New York, the Administrator 
 of my father s estate and for whom I presume you in 
 tended it. 
 
 The enclosed letter he has requested me to forward and 
 I presume it will furnish you with the information required. 
 
 It is now more than eight years since I left my father s 
 office, during which time I have been in business on my own 
 account. I have no recollection of the debts alluded to 
 in your letter. With due respect I am, sir, your most obt. 
 servt., 
 
 DAVID A. OGDEN. 
 
 NEW YORK, Novr. loth, 1800. 
 
 FROM L. DEL.ABIGARRE. 
 
 TIVOLI, REDHOOK LANDING, August 15, 1801. 
 General: 
 
 Being informed that you want a pointer for this season, 
 I can secure one to you for half the price it cost me, viz. 
 
460 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 IO dollars. It is a fine well broken bitch, which I bought 
 3 years ago for 20 dollars from a Swiss gentleman. She 
 fetches any kind of game even out of the water. If you 
 send for her within a fortnight you may have her; but as 
 I am unwell and have no hope of enjoying any sport this 
 season, I will send her to N. York by the 1st of September. 
 Thus I thought to make you this offer before. Yours most 
 respectfully, 
 
 LD. DEL.ABIGARRE. 
 
 FROM JAMES ALEXANDER^ 
 
 TRENTON, August 29, 1801. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 The deed from Davis and wife to the Trustees came safe 
 to hand, but on account of its not being acknowledged, 
 had not the desired effect. We were cast; the Widow of 
 Davis has gained her Dower, tho not in equity and good 
 conscience entitled to it. The only thing now remaining 
 is to find out the Deed from Peter Sutfin, Peter Dumont 
 and John Tenbrooeck to John Duyckinck, if possible, 
 which I presume and hope are among your papers. Now, 
 sir, if you will be so oblidging as to send the Deed above 
 mentioned by Doctor John Howell, an honest and careful 
 man, if he should call on you on his return from Albany; 
 but if his business should oblige him to go some other rout, 
 please to send the Deed enclosed by the mail to me, or if 
 you would rather, to your friend Gov. Richard Howell, 
 who will be careful of any papers committed to his charge. 
 
 1 Son of James Alexander, of New Perth, Charlotte County, who 
 died in 1783. He left a wife, Catherine, and two children, Jenny and 
 James. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 461 
 
 I have been at a great deal of trouble and expense al 
 ready about this business, and should I now fail in getting 
 the above mentioned Deed, I shall be ruined, for I am poor. 
 I am with respect yours, &c., 
 
 JAMES ALEXANDER. 
 
 FROM JAMES A. BAYARD. 1 
 
 WASHINGTON, 12 January, 1802. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 The letter you wrote me on the 5th instant I had the 
 pleasure of receiving last evening. 
 
 The prospect is not so flattering as you seem to imagine 
 as to the recovery of your debt due from Mr. Vining. 
 
 Mr. Vining had two plantations, the only known funds 
 from which his creditors could expect anything. There 
 were incumbrances against them of long standing and to 
 large amount. He sold the principal plantation to a Mr. 
 McClyments for ten thousand dollars. The purchaser 
 undertook to discharge the incumbrances to the amount of 
 his purchase, and in order to protect himself against charges 
 to a greater amount took a mortgage in the sum of 1000 
 on the other plantation. This mortgage is a short time an 
 terior to the date of our judgment. It has been impossible 
 for me to get an account from McClyment of what is due 
 under the mortgage, and it has been equally impracticable 
 to ascertain what is due on outstanding judgments. There 
 is a long list open on the records, and Vining himself does 
 not know whether they have been paid. 
 
 The remaining plantation I have generally heard esti- 
 
 1 James Asheton Bayard, of Delaware, then in the United States 
 House of Representatives. 
 
462 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 mated at the value of dollars 4000. Much will depend 
 upon the sale. It is in a part of the country where there 
 can be little competition if the land be sold at auction. 
 
 We have gone through all the forms necessary to enable 
 a sale, and process has issued for the sale, but with direc 
 tions not to sell under 4000 dollars. Should it sell for less 
 we probably should get nothing; and even if it sell for 
 that sum I can give no assurances as to what we are likely 
 to get. The property is so involved in incumbrances, and 
 those incumbrances so involved in obscurity, that I suspect 
 no one is precisely acquainted with the state of the business. 
 
 The only compulsory remedy we have to obtain a dis 
 closure and an account from McClyment is a Bill in Chan 
 cery. I have avoided that step owing to the trouble, 
 expence and delay which attends it. In the course of the 
 ensuing summer I flatter myself the affair may be finally 
 adjusted; and there shall be no exertion wanting on my 
 part to [the] accomplishment [of] a settlement most fa 
 vourable to your interest. 
 
 I should have been much gratified in having had it in my 
 power to present you with better prospects, but I could 
 not consent to create hopes which ultimately might be 
 disappointment. I have the honor to be Sir, your very 
 obt. Servt., 
 
 J. A. BAYARD. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, February 2, 1802. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I expected before this to have been at your house, but 
 have waited for a letter from you about H. Livingston]. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 463 
 
 James Fortune tells me he saw you. Pray what could call 
 the fellow there for no good. I hope you ll have noth 
 ing to do with him. He is the very fellow that lives in 
 the Mansion house, but more of this when I see you. Jack 
 has not been down since some time in October. He talks 
 of building on his farm at Canaan. Tryon is a very 
 worthy respectable good man. He comes to enquire 
 about Tenbrock farm, the Webbs farm, &c. I have re 
 ferred him to you for advice. Any attention paid him will 
 be paid to one of my best friends and to a charming worthy 
 man. I hope your good wives disorder has gone into her 
 arms before this. Mrs. John Chester was put to bed with 
 a fine boy last Fryday evening. I have not time to add 
 only that I am, with love to you all, your most friendly, 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 I suspect Mr. Fortune was after some land, but I think 
 you will have nothing to do with him or any other person 
 untill I see you. Capt. Tryon has plenty of money, but 
 wants a good bargain or none. He has established one 
 son at Hartford very handsomely with John Morgan. I 
 think you will be pleased with Capt. Tryon and I trust will 
 render him every service he may want. He thinks much 
 of moving on a large farm, yet near some good town for 
 navigation, as he has several fine smart active sons, all well 
 acquainted with trade and navigation. Should he move to 
 your quarter it will be an acquisition to your party. He 
 and his good wife are charming. Her great fear is about 
 meeting on Sunday, but it s not far to Hudson, where I 
 suppose is a steady Decenting meeting, Quaker meetings, 
 Church of England, or almost any other meeting. But 
 Claverack, I can t say much about their church or meetings. 
 
464 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 So I find Killy 1 has obtained his wish about getting the 
 clerkship of your county. Oh Jefferson! We Federalists 
 are much alarmed and fear the Constitution is gone, or 
 rather going. What can be done to save it? We must 
 exert ourselves. Your friend Colo. Chester is extreemly 
 warm. Tryon is a good Federalist. For any further in 
 formation I must refer you to Capt. Tryon. I believe he 
 will be in company with Capt. Clark, who I think you must 
 have known at Middletown, and heard of his gallant action 
 of retaking his vessel some years ago from the British; 
 after which he retired on a fine farm at Canaan and lives 
 very gentealy and clever, and is said to be very worthy 
 good man. 
 
 CHURCH SUBSCRIPTION^ 
 
 The Subscribers, sensibly impressed with the importance 
 of a strict observance of the Lords day, and the duty of 
 worshipping the Deity in a language generally understood; 
 and there being but one church in the Village of Claversack, 
 and the service performed in that unintelligible to many 
 pious and well disposed persons. 
 
 In duty to our God, to the community, and to the rising 
 generation, for the promotion of morality and religion, for 
 the happiness and prosperity of the Village, We do severally 
 promise to pay the Vestry of the Protestant Episcopal 
 Church in this place, when such Vestry shall be legally 
 
 1 Killian Hogeboom was appointed clerk of Columbia County, 
 January 8, 1802, succeeding Jacob R. Van Rensselaer. He remained 
 in office until June 14, 1808. 
 
 2 Of unknown date, but inserted in this place because of the remarks 
 contained in Joseph Webb s letter, above. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 465 
 
 organized; the sums annexed to our respective names, to 
 be by them applied, to the purchase of a lot of ground, and 
 erecting a church and such other uses as they may deem 
 most proper to advance the cause of knowledge and virtue. 
 J. Rutsen Van Renselaer one hundred & fifty dollars 
 Dollars Cents 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 SALISBURY, yth March, 1802. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 I wrote you a few days since that a Mr. Daniel Nicols 
 had an ox that would weigh from eight to nine hundred, 
 and that you could have it at the market cash price; that 
 such been was selling at at Hudson at six dollars per 
 hundred delivered at Claverack. He is waiting for your 
 answer; he sais it will have from one hundred and twenty 
 to thirty pounds of tallow. He expects the mony on deliv 
 ery. I wish you to write him as soon as possable. Write 
 him, as I expect the latter part of next week to go from 
 this. I have agreed to sell Mr. Phineas Chapin the house 
 I now live in, at the rate of two hundred pounds L[awful] 
 M[oney]; he will pay you for your seventh at the same 
 rate which your seventh will come to 28. II. 3; then 
 your fifth of a seventh, being your part of our Sister s 
 estate, will be five pounds fourteen shillings and sJ^, for 
 which he will pay you in ninety days. I expect to leave 
 this some time in May for my farm in Canaan with my 
 family. We was happy to hear that our sister had a son 
 and was very comfortable. Mrs. Webb joins me in love 
 to you all. I am affectionately yours. Nicols lives in this 
 town. JOHN WEBB. 
 
466 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM DAVID THOMAS. 
 My Dear Sir: WASHINGTON, April 11, 1802. 
 
 Yours of the 3ist ultimo I have received and thank you 
 for your attention to Polly. I have received a letter from 
 her in New York. She arrived there safe yesterday week, 
 but declines visiting Washington this spring, as the session 
 is so nigh closing. I am of opinion that we shall adjourn 
 in about 10 days. 
 
 With respect to our friend Dr. Malcom he may rest 
 easy. I have no apprehensions that he will be removed. 
 It is possible, however, that the office may be vacated, tho 
 I question very much whether that will take place or not. 
 I find the emoluments of the office only about 322 dollars 
 a year, but this is a slim item in the expense of a family. 
 
 As to the suggestions respecting yourself, you having 
 abandoned the object before you closed your letter a reply 
 is unnecessary. It will, however, always afford me great 
 happiness to have it in my power to promote the wishes 
 of friends like Genl. Webb. 
 
 I am sorry to hear from Polly that our dear sister Jane 
 is troubled with rheumatism. 
 
 Present my love to all my friends the family in gross, and 
 particularly to my dear sister Webb, and believe me in 
 sincerity cordially yours &c., 
 
 DAVID THOMAS. 
 
 FROM JAMES STUART. 
 
 Dear Sir: NEW YoRK A P r11 2 4 l8 2 - 
 
 Not until this afternoon could I get an answer from Dr. 
 Wilson. He says that I may rely on his paying the five 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 467 
 
 hundred dollars to me on account of Judge Palmer, so that 
 you may be easy on that head. 
 
 This day a ship has arrived from Cozues in England and 
 brings news to 14 March, that the Congress at Amiens has 
 broke up without signing [a] Definitive Treaty, the English 
 government having [have] order thirty sail of the line im 
 mediately for sea. This will be no bad thing for our 
 country, altho unfortunate for others. Wishing you health 
 I am your wel wisher, &c., 
 
 JAM. STUART. 
 
 No. 10 William street. 
 
 FROM JAMES WATSON. 
 
 NEW YORK, July 19, 1802. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 Ogden s note I believe to be paid. I passed it away last 
 fall with an abatement of 7 per cent discount. 
 
 I have not heard from Bayard on Vining s business. The 
 sale of Jim is acceptable on any terms. I wish to know 
 how much land is held for him. If the title be unques 
 tionable and the deed to me or yourself, what hinders my 
 conveying the lands so long held in trust for you ? I wish 
 to do it while we are both alive. I expect to take my 
 journey in a week or two and shall probably be at Claverack. 
 With best respects to Mrs. Webb, I am your your obdt. 
 and most Hble. Servt., 
 
 JAMES WATSON. 
 
468 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 FROM JAMES WATSON. 
 
 NEW YORK, October 3ist, 1802. 
 My Dear Sir: 
 
 Mr. Doe called upon me and I stated to him the nature 
 and course of the transactions respecting the lands. 
 
 He appeared to be well satisfied and I am persuaded will 
 endeavour to make others so. I supposed you had done 
 with the Ludlows, and that no obstacle remained to my 
 conveying the property to you and riding myself of a trust 
 very delicate in its nature, and at no time since I under 
 stood it perfectly conformable to my ideas of propriety. 
 
 It is no ways probable that Mr. James Ludlow will call 
 upon me about the business. If he does I can refuse to 
 communicate at all with him about it, but I can make no 
 representation to him different from what I have done to 
 Mr. Doe. 
 
 As I have unwittingly been drawn into this business I am 
 desirous to render you every honest and honorable service 
 in it, and to extricate myself from all responsibility in law 
 and equity that may result from it. 
 
 I know nothing about the mortgages of which you speak, 
 nor indeed of anything else except what was necessary for 
 my own government thus far. Twelve years this property 
 has been in my possession. I do not remember ever to 
 have given you any authority to dispose of it. The pur 
 chasers and payers of rent to you are not secure. My 
 death might involve them in serious difficulties. These 
 things ought not to be so. A plan must be immediately 
 adopted to set them all to rights. Hitherto I have been 
 inattentive to the subject, perhaps culpably so. I pray 
 you to state precisely everything you have done, and to 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 469 
 
 do nothing further until I have determined what I ought 
 to do. I am with perfect cordiality your sincere and Hble 
 Servt. 
 
 JAMES WATSON. 
 
 FROM WILLIAM CONSTABLE. 
 
 My Dear Webb: 
 
 I did not hear till Tuesday that you were in town and, 
 behold you, I am laid up today from having travelled 
 yesterday in the wet. Come and see us I pray you. I 
 will call for you tomorrow and bring you to dinner and 
 send you back, if you will not stay all night which you may 
 as well do. Yrs., 
 
 WM. CONSTABLE. 
 
 Thursday, [NEW YORK, November, 1802.] 
 
 FROM DAVID THOMAS. 
 
 WASHINGTON, February 8th, 1803. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I should have wrote you before, but generally having 
 engagements on hand, and as I have left the pleasure of 
 corresponding with the family principally to Polly, my 
 leisure hours have been devoted to my immediate constitu 
 ents. I believe I have wrote you once, and sent you now 
 and then a Washington Federalist; but as I don t take 
 that paper myself it has not been in my power to send them 
 regularly. 
 
 Polly gives you all the news as to her parties and amuse 
 ments. This evening we have an invitation to spend it at 
 Genl. [Henry] Dearborn s, but decline the pleasure. Polly 
 
470 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 begins to be tired of gay life. Yesterday she received the 
 Marquis de Casa Yrujo s 1 card to four partys for the four 
 Wednesdays while we are to remain here. These undoubt 
 edly will be brilliant, as he has lately received this royal 
 present for himself and heirs. 
 
 Polly says she cannot write this evening, and as no doubt 
 all the family wish to hear often from her and her husband I 
 have wrote this scrawl. Several persons, ladys and gentle 
 men, are now in the room, and had not ten minutes before 
 closing the mail when I began, so that you must judge of 
 it accordingly. 
 
 Give our joint love and compliments to our Sister Caty 
 and to all the family, and accept yourself the assurance of 
 my high consideration. 
 
 DAVID THOMAS. 
 
 FROM JAMES A. BAYARD. 
 
 WASHINGTON, i6th February, 1803. 
 Sir: 
 
 The state of your business in Delaware has not varied 
 since the date of my last letter. There is a tract of land 
 which has commonly been estimated at 1500 which re 
 mains of Vinings estate. If a sale were .forced, and no one 
 having an interest to raise the price to the full value at 
 tended, in all probability it would be sacrificed. 
 
 There is a mortgage of 1000 before your judgment. It 
 is however only a collateral security, and what is due on it 
 I do not know. There are other incumbrances, but I 
 
 [ The Spanish minister who married Governor McKean s daughter, 
 and gave no little anxiety to the American government by his diplo 
 matic behavior. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 47! 
 
 cannot name the amount. I fear the debt is lost. It is 
 possible a remnant of it may be saved. 
 
 If things turn out better than I suppose them, I will lose 
 no time in communicating the good news. I am respect 
 fully, your obdt Servt., J. A. BAYARD. 
 
 FROM THOMAS M. MANN. 
 
 HUDSON, July 12, 1803. 
 Dear Sir: 
 
 I received your message by Doctor Malcolm stating that 
 the money due on our joint account is ready for me, on 
 condition that I send out to your house for it, a ceremony 
 which I shall conform with pleasure. The amount of our 
 joint account for inoculating, testing and attendance on 
 your familly as delivered to you by Doct. Malcolm is four 
 teen dollars, which you [will] please to pay the bearer Mr. 
 Holly, and this shall be your receipt in full therefor. Very 
 respectfully yours, THOS. M. MANN. 
 
 FROM JOHN WEBB. 
 
 CANAAN, December ist, 1804. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Your letter dated the loth November was yesterday 
 handed [me] by Mr. Taylor after it had been by the post 
 through mistake carried to Litchfield, and where else I 
 cannot say. It gave us all sincere pleasure to hear that 
 you was well, or rather better than you had been, and that 
 your family were in health. We promised ourselves the 
 pleasure of seeing our sister and yourself here before this, 
 but my Mrs. W[ebb] sais she now gives up the idea of your 
 
472 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 comeing. Please to remember us affectionately to our 
 sister and the children. 
 
 Was it in my power to loan you a sum of mony I would 
 with pleasure. Such has been my expense in defending 
 against an unjust suit, that I have been obliged to pay 
 nearly two thousand dollars cost, though I beat them. 
 Not only that the death of John King, Esq, makes me 
 meet with a loss of two thousand nine hundred dollars, and 
 I have been obliged to advance mony in an unjust sute 
 brought by J. Seagrove, though I expect in the end I shall 
 receive a large sum. But when a law suit ends you know 
 is uncertain. Not a farthing of my sister s property have 
 I sold, of yours, or any of the heirs. You have been told 
 long since that you were to sell if you please your part to 
 Mr. Scovill and Chapin. As for the next proceeds of the 
 Stamford estate, it went to recover the Hoskin farm, sold 
 to Scovill, and the other pieces of property which I men 
 tioned to you. I wish not by letter to go into explanations. 
 But I have no monies of yours or any other persons in my 
 hands. But God knows how willingly would I gratify you 
 if in my power. 
 
 Yes poor Barrell is no more. A more worthy character 
 does not exist. He has left a worthy sett of children who 
 will feel most sensibly his loss. May God protect them. 
 
 Let me request you to come and bring our sister and as 
 many of the children as you please. We will try to make 
 their time pass as agreable as we can in our Hutt. I am 
 wishing you health prosperity and happiness, here and 
 hereafter. Your affect Br., J. WEBB. 
 
 P. S. If your sons want their colts kept this winter 
 they shall fare as my horses, free of expence. 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 473 
 
 J. CARVER TO DR. JAMES CLEMENTS. 
 Dear Clements : CLAVERACK VILLAGE, May, 1806. 
 
 Permit me to introduce to your acquaintance Genl. 
 Saml. Webb, a gentleman to whose friendship and urbanity 
 of manners I am much indebted during my residence in 
 this part of the country. 
 
 It is I trust more than sufficient to say that Genl. Webb 
 was the friend and companion of our much lamented Gen 
 eral George Washington during the whole of the Revolution. 
 
 Any attention that the vacation of business will permit 
 you to show Genl. Webb during his stay in York will con 
 fer a lasting obligation on Yr. friend, J. CARVER. 
 
 FROM HENRY LIVINGSTON. 
 
 Dear General: JoHN s TowN > Au S ust 9> l8 6 - 
 
 After leaving you today at Fite Miller s I have altered 
 my intentions of passing thro Hudson. I shall (I hope) 
 see Mr. Van Ness on Monday at Albany, when I will fully 
 converse with him on the subject that employed our at 
 tention today, and I shall hope that everything will be 
 made agreeable to you. I am, sir, with best respects, 
 your Humbl Servt., H. LIVINGSTON. 
 
 FROM DAVID THOMAS. 
 My Dear Sir: REP * HALL X J 5 th December, 1806. 
 
 Here we have a prodigious severe winter for this place; 
 the sledding is very good and the Potomac closed. Have 
 
 1 Hall of Representatives, Washington. 
 
474 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 not heard whether the cold weather extends to the North 
 River or not. We are going on very cool and with much 
 harmony. 
 
 Burr s movements excites much interest in the public 
 mind. His real object is not satisfactorily understood; he 
 covers it under a land speculation. It may be true, but 
 I do not believe it. At all events he will be defeated. 
 
 From the Sabine river we are anxiously waiting for im 
 portant intelligence, uncertain whether it don t bring in 
 the news of bloody noses. 
 
 I wrote Polly last evening. Give my love to her and all 
 the family. Yours affectionately in haste, 
 
 DAVID THOMAS. 
 Genl. S. B. Webb. 
 
 FROM JOSEPH WEBB. 
 
 WETHERSFIELD, April 9th, 1807. 
 Dear Brother: 
 
 Mr. Bowles says he s going to Claverac in half an hour 
 and begs I would write if but one line to you. I am ex- 
 treemly busy getting my fences and things ready for my 
 garden, and the variety of the thousand little etiquets that 
 are indiscribable makes me like a hurrid mortal, and yet, 
 altho I have written you a very long circumstantial letter 
 after we left you to which I have not received a line, so 
 direct and certain opportunity offers that I can t but 
 write a few lines just to say we are here so so, pretty well, 
 yet as Shakespear says only so so. For the Influenza or 
 some other frenzy makes some derangement from being 
 quite as we wish; yet we move and have a being in this 
 strange [torn] and endeavor to make the best of this transi- 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 475 
 
 tory pilgrimage [torn} for Life passes away, and what we 
 call a long period is but a short real duration. So much 
 by way of begining, and by way of apology. 
 
 My Mrs. W[ebb] in this hurry has gone to put you up a 
 few garden seeds; but she tells me the season was too un 
 favorable last year to gather seeds as usual, but she has 
 some which she will put up with pleasure. As for family 
 news the bearer, Mr. Bowles, can tell you that Colo. 
 Chester s wife has lost her mother, the aged and worthy 
 dear woman, Mrs. Huntington, who she buried last Satur 
 day week. Colo. Chester and she went down in their 
 chaise to the funeral and returned but last Monday. The 
 old lady was eighty odd, had a happy exit. Both Colo. 
 Chester and his wife often ask after you, and most ar 
 dently want to see you. Indeed I think you had better 
 take yourself and daughter in a chaise and visit your Weth- 
 ersfield friends this spring. You will find it s nothing, the 
 roads are fine to what they used to be. Mrs. Barrell and her 
 two sons are yet with me. Besides this Carles and Henry 
 have spent three weeks here since I was at your house, 
 as I wrote you, two fine young fellows. Since my writing 
 about them their goods have arrived in Boston, and they 
 got back just in season to receive and open them. They 
 wanted much to visit you, but the season would not permit. 
 I have not time to add only that [all] desire their best love 
 to their Uncle and his dear [wife], and that I wish to hear 
 from you [when opportunity oifers], and that I am most 
 sincerely yr. afft svt and Br., 
 
 Jos. WEBB. 
 
 Say Compliments to Mr. Jo. Thomas, Uncle H[oge- 
 boom], your Father s family, etc. Capt. Wait G is well 
 
476 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 except a little touch of the rheumatism, etc. Doct. Mose- 
 ley and his family are well. I mention this as his brother 
 lives in your vicinity. Elias Morgan s three children are 
 yet with me. He s at St. Croix. Hays at Gadulepue, 
 Antigua, or perhaps by this time arrived at St. Croix with 
 Morgan, and they may be here the beginning of next 
 month. Tho I expect Hays, I hardly expect E. M. untill 
 July. Both of them I believe are doing very well; but 
 navigation is uncertain business unless managed with the 
 greatest care, but if rightly conducted rapid fortunes are 
 made by it. Witness our neighbor Justus Riley, who 
 doubtless is worth two hundred thousand dollars; but I 
 need not single him out. I wish often as possible to hear 
 from you as we all feel so anxious for you and your dear 
 children. I hope the good Mrs. Thomas did not think 
 hard of me that I saw so little of her while at Troy. Colo. 
 Qhester] and his wife do much urge your coming here, 
 and say they now really hope sometime or other to call 
 on you in their way to Albany. I rather think Elizabeth 
 will be married about the first of June. 
 
 Fryday Morning, April. 
 
 Dear Brother I wrote the above last evening, supposing 
 old [Bowles] was going off then in about 15 minutes; but 
 by the chapter of accidents aiding and assisting the Ches- 
 ters, &c., he has been detained, and gives me a little oppor 
 tunity to add. Since writing the above I have seen Lockd. 
 Belden. He tells me he has received a most friendly, 
 polite and attentive letter from you, and says you had not 
 then received my Letter. Soon after I got home I wrote 
 you a letter to make you laugh about our journey. I hope 
 you have received [it]. Tho there were no secrets that I 
 
SAMUEL BLACHLEY WEBB 477 
 
 can recollect, yet it was the funny jaunts we had, or rather 
 a funny description which I thought would make you laugh 
 heartily at us, then pity and scold at us that we did not 
 stay. But Belden s business was such that I let him dictate 
 about staying or going; but if you have not received my 
 letter, let me tell you we got to Millers very well; after 
 that no snow; we went two miles afoot towards Ancram in 
 company with a clever Dutchman from Claverack that 
 persuaded us to turn off to the south from the turnpike. 
 This was when we turned off only 17 miles from Salisbury. 
 We twisted and twisted about, dodged here and there, and 
 after going down to the N. East on the oblong plain where 
 Dibble lives, near night found ourselves on another turn 
 pike road, and that night only got to Salisbury, six miles 
 from General Webb. Belden and I walked every step of 
 the last twelve miles. While at Salisbury that night it 
 snowed, so that next day we got only to Maj. Webb s. 
 The next night instead of snow or freezing I got rain, and 
 spent another day with Major Webb. The next hired, 
 waggon and horses and got home in one day from the 
 Major s; but [no] more of this as Bowles waits for my 
 letter. 
 
 FROM DAVID THOMAS. 
 
 WASHINGTON, November 2, 1807. 
 My Dear Sir: 
 
 I hope by this time you have at least so far recovered 
 your health as to enjoy the news of the day. But we have 
 very little news here of any kind. We are all in suspense 
 as to the event of the pending questions between this nation 
 
478 FAMILY LETTERS 
 
 and Great Britain, looking with anxiety for dispatches from 
 our Ministers at London. 
 
 Our House is organized, but we lay now on our oars, 
 doing very little. 
 
 Burr, Blennerhasset, &c., &c., have passed through this 
 place in company with Luther Martin, it is said to Balti 
 more, where Martin is agoing to give those choice spirits a 
 sumptious entertainment. 1 
 
 Give my love to Polly and all our family, and with my 
 sincere prayers for the restoration of your health believe 
 me, my dear Brother and friend, yours etc. affectionately, 
 
 DAVID THOMAS. 
 
 1 See Henry Adams, History of the United States, III, 444. 
 
INDEX 
 
INDEX 
 
 Abbeville, Chevalier d , 255. 
 
 Accounts, regimental, 155. 
 
 Ackland, James, 12. 
 
 Adams, John, 253^. 
 
 Adgate, Matthew, 424, 427. 
 
 Adventurer, 191. 
 
 Alexander, James, 460. 
 
 Alliance, prize money, 353. 
 
 Allicock, Joseph, 55, 56, 90. 
 
 Allyn, Timothy, 161, 168. 
 
 Alsop, Clarinda, 290. 
 
 Alsop, John, 282, 315, 318, 319, 376, 
 
 379, 382, 387, 394, 396, 404, 409. 
 Alsop, Mary, 286. 
 America, 150. 
 Amiens, treaty of, 466. 
 
 Ansters, , 316. 
 
 Anstruther, John, 64. 
 Apthorp, Mrs. G., 116. 
 
 Apthorpe, , no. 
 
 Arms on furlough, 250. 
 Arnold, Benedict, 99. 
 
 Ashman, , 200, 204. 
 
 Aspinwall, Gilbert, 450. 
 Aspinwall, John, 450^. 
 Assembly, ticket for, 283, 410. 
 Atkinson, John, 74, 271, 272. 
 A very, Simeon, 196. 
 Axtelle, William, 78, 107. 
 
 Backhouse, William, 419. 
 
 Bacon, Richard, 150, 158, 241, 384, 
 
 405- 
 
 Bacon, William, 294. 
 Bagley, David, 434. 
 Bambridge, Mrs., 100. 
 Bancker, Abraham, 206, 243. 
 Bancker, Adrian, Sin, 229-^. 
 Bancker, Christopher, 22972. 
 Bancker, Christopher, (2nd) 188, 205, 
 
 229, 244, 256. 
 
 Bancker, Elizabeth, Sin, 103, 128, 144, 
 162. 
 
 Bancker, Evert, Sin, 187, 229^. 
 
 Bancker, Gerardus, 432. 
 
 Bancker, Richard, Sin, 229^, 344, 364, 
 401. 
 
 Bancker, Sarah, Sin, 151, 247; death, 
 261, 264, 267; letters, 194, 200, 203, 
 205, 213, 216, 217, 223, 224, 225, 
 228, 232, 237. 
 
 Bancker, William, Sin, 22gn. 
 
 Bank of United States, 427. 
 
 Barrell, Joseph, 156, 168, 308, 310, 313, 
 3i6, 333, 360, 423; prisoners taken 
 by privateer, 96; prize, 166; sym 
 pathy in trouble, 376, 384, 407; and 
 Platt, 412; Bentley s visit, 428; ad 
 viser to John, 438; to build, 447; 
 death, 472; letters, 127, 146, 153, 
 242, 264, 323, 340, 350. 
 
 Barrell, Nancy, 337, 341. 
 
 Barrell, Nathaniel, 387. 
 
 Barrell, Sarah, 118; letters, 207, 267. 
 
 Barrow, , 366. 
 
 Barton, Joseph, 38. 
 
 Bauman, Sebastian, 354. 
 
 Bay, , 424, 434. 
 
 Bayard, James Asheton, 461, 470. 
 
 Bayard, Samuel, 116. 
 
 Baylor, George, 88, 92. 
 
 Beadle, William, 124. 
 
 Beatty, John, 78, 92, 117, 126. 
 
 Beaumont, , captain, 140. 
 
 Beckwith, Phinehas, 196. 
 
 Bedlow, captain, 119. 
 
 Beebe, Barzaleel, 51. 
 
 Beekman, Gerardus, 225, 227, 232, 332, 
 
 379- 
 Beekman, Gerardus G., Jr., 238, 241, 
 
 340. 
 Beers, Nathan, 129. 
 
482 
 
 INDEX 
 
 Beldcn, Ezekiel P., 290, 308. 
 
 Belden, Lockwood, 476. 
 
 Belclen, Polly, 329. 
 
 Belden, Simon, 123. 
 
 Belding, Abraham, 167, 174, 233. 
 
 Belding, Richard, 246. 
 
 Bend, Grove, 101. 
 
 Benson, George, 265. 
 
 Bentley, William, 428^. 
 
 Berry and Rogers, 95, 109, in. 
 
 Berton, Peter, i. 
 
 Belts, Hezekiah, 161. 
 
 Betts, Stephen, 16472, 182. 
 
 Bigelow, John, 123. 
 
 Bigelow, Jonathan, 260. 
 
 Birdsall, Benjamin, 42472. 
 
 Birdsall, Hannah, 236. 
 
 Blachley, Sarah, 41611. 
 
 Elaine, Ephraim, 215. 
 
 Blinns, , 188. 
 
 Blodget, Jube, 353. 
 
 Blodget, Nathan, 37. 
 
 Blodget, William, 103, 270. 
 
 Boardman, Elijah, 183. 
 
 Boardman, Seth, 435. 
 
 Boerum, Hendrick, 32. 
 
 Bogert, Tennis, 159, 386. 
 
 Booth, Walter, 173. 
 
 Bounties, 211. 
 
 Bowdoin, James, on Temple s losses, 
 29. 
 
 Bradish s Tavern, Cambridge, i8. 
 
 Bradley, Daniel, 161. 
 
 Brazier, Mrs., 112. 
 
 Bronson, Dr., 227. 
 
 Brooks, John, 345. 
 
 Broome, John, 123. 
 
 Brown, Benjamin, 116. 
 
 Brown, Mountford, 75. 
 
 Browne, Samuel, 342. 
 
 Buck, Daniel, 123. 
 
 Buck, Josiah, 124. 
 
 Buck, Samuel, 317. 
 
 Bulkley, C., 123. 
 
 Bulkley, Edward, captured, 35; sends 
 money, 77; returns to New York, 
 93; desires a horse, 114, 142; re 
 leased, 147; sympathy, 173; com 
 plaint, 280; widow, 395; letters, 117, 
 
 124, 128, 142, 147, 148, 1 60, 167, 168, 
 
 171, 173. 
 
 Bulkley, John, Jr., 123, 127*1. 
 Bull, Amos, 44, 263, 300, 310, 312, 341, 
 
 407, 456. 
 
 Bull, Caleb, Jr., 123. 
 Bull, David, 295. 
 Bull, Epaphras, 149. 
 Bull, Frederick, 408. 
 Bull, James, 330. 
 Bull, Joseph, 123, 128, 333, 373, 377, 
 
 387, 388, 398, 407. 
 Bunce, Jared, 174, 425. 
 Burbank, Ebenezer, 165. 
 
 Burnham, , 210, 262. 
 
 Burr, Aaron, 123, 258, 417, 473. 
 
 Burr, Jared, 332. 
 
 Burrows, John, 410. 
 
 Burton, William, 56. 
 
 Butler, Joseph, 124. 
 
 Butler, Zebulon, 237. 
 
 Butler, , 329. 
 
 Bygrave, William, 87. 
 Byles, Lambert, 78. 
 
 Cadet, 362. 
 
 Caines, Jonathan, 358. 
 
 Camfield, Samuel, 46, 47, 55, 58, 64, 
 
 65, 79- 
 
 Camp, Connecticut Line, 212. 
 Campbell, Archibald, 37, 85. 
 Campbell, Donald, 159. 
 Carrey, Frances, 235. 
 Carrows, Mrs., 88. 
 Carson, Joseph, 355. 
 Carter, John, 135. 
 Carter, Reuben, 246. 
 Carver, J., 473. 
 Gary, Richard, 27. 
 Gary, Richard, Jr., 273. 
 Chadwick, James, i6in, 167. 
 Chadwick, William, i6in. 
 Chapel, Gay, 141. 
 Chapin, Phineas, 465. 
 Chapman, Thomas, 67; books, 79. 
 Chester, John, 94, 123, 373, 385, 439. 
 Chester, Mrs. John, 72. 
 Chester, Leonard, 123. 
 Chester, Sarah, 230. 
 
INDEX 
 
 483 
 
 Chester, Stephen, 156, 249, 271,369,372. 
 
 Chester, Thomas, 378, 381. 
 
 Chevenard, John, 123, i66n, 178. 
 
 Chew, Joseph, 67, 77. 
 
 Church, James, 123. 
 
 Cincinnati, meeting of, 365. 
 
 Clark, Thomas, 63. 
 
 Clarke, John, 368. 
 
 Clarkson, Levinus, 64, 102, 104, 117, 
 
 190. 
 
 Clarkson, Matthew, 92. 
 Claverack, N. Y., church, 464. 
 Clements, James, 473. 
 Cleveland, Samuel, 70. 
 Clinton, George, 44 $n. 
 Clinton, Sir Henry, 106, no, 145. 
 Clothing for regiment, 27, 130, 171, 
 
 182, 242. 
 
 Cobb, Hannah, 257. 
 Cochran, John, 151. 
 Coeyman, Andrew, 137/2. 
 Coeyman, Gertrude, 13 *jn. 
 Coeyman, Samuel, 177. 
 Coffin, Jared, 424/2. 
 Cogswell, Thomas, 218. 
 Golden, Cadwallader, 362/2. 
 
 Colfax, , 200. 
 
 Collier, Thomas, 389. 
 
 Collins, John, 56. 
 
 Colt, Peter, 124. 
 
 Columbia, County, N. Y., 456. 
 
 Comstock, Samuel, 164/2. 
 
 Congress, Continental, 10. 
 
 Connell, L., 53. 
 
 Constable, William, 100, 170, 469. 
 
 Cooke, William, 77. 
 
 Cooper, William, 10. 
 
 Corporals, Memorial of, 245. 
 
 Court Martial, 161, 163. 
 
 Cowley, Hannah, 437. 
 
 Cozine, John, 364. 
 
 Crane, John, 250. 
 
 Croofoot, Benjamin, 365. 
 
 Crooke, Charles, 344. 
 
 Crown Point, lands near, 269. 
 
 Curten, John, 269. 
 
 Curtiss, Samuel, 260, 374. 
 
 Cutting, John Brown, 194, 204, 214, 
 
 304- 
 
 Cuyler, C., 301. 
 Cuyler, Henry, 30172. 
 
 Dandy, 190/2. 
 
 Daubeny, Mrs., 46. 
 
 Davis, Boardman, 294. 
 
 Davis, , i. 
 
 Dawes, Thomas, 345. 
 
 Dayton, Elias, 2iin. 
 
 Deane, Barnabas, 123, 12773, 140, 169, 
 195, 215, 452; unsuccessful priva 
 teer, 25. 
 
 Deane, Jesse, 8, 253, 309. 
 
 Deane, Mehitabel, 7. 
 
 Deane, Mehitabel (Hetty), 8. 
 
 Deane, Silas, authorized to sell prop 
 erty, 7; to Boston committee, 10; 
 Simpson on, 13, 16; death of wife, 
 32; message to, 72; letter, 125; 
 bill returned, 251; conduct at 
 tacked, 259; business neglect, 262; 
 estate, 291, 307; return expected, 
 408; matter ended, 411; accounts, 
 417. 
 
 Deane, Simeon, 25, 254. 
 
 Dearborn, Henry, 469. 
 
 Debartzchy, Dominique, 274. 
 
 Delabigarre, L., 459. 
 
 Delancey, Alice, 362/2. 
 
 Delancey, Elizabeth, 362/2. 
 
 Delancey, James, proposed exchange, 
 
 35, 37, 39, S3- 
 Delancey, Mrs., 102. 
 Delancey, Oliver, 41. 
 Delancey, Peter, 362/2. 
 Deming, Henry, 263, 325. 
 Deming, Josiah, 124. 
 Deming, Mrs., 52. 
 Deming, William, 124, 404, 408. 
 Denning, William, 258/2. 300, 305, 332. 
 Dering, Sylvester, 50. 
 Deserters, order on, 150. 
 Devereux, James, 344. 
 Discharge, certificates of, 213. 
 Dix, Benjamin, 223, 224. 
 Dodge, Seth, 196. 
 Dorsius, John, 190/2. 
 Downs, James, 246. 
 Draper, George, 121. 
 
4 8 4 
 
 INDEX 
 
 Drawbacks, changes in, i. 
 
 DuCass, , 124. 
 
 Duer, William, 445. 
 Dumont, Peter, 460. 
 Dunham, Azarck, 223. 
 Dunscomb, Daniel, 258;?. 
 
 Dunscombe, , Mrs., 146, 249. 
 
 Durkee, John, 160. 
 Duyckinck, Evert, 279. 
 Duyckinck, James, 401. 
 Duyckinck, John, on death of Mrs. 
 
 Webb, 175, 176; on mills, 188, 199, 
 
 206, 222, 277. 
 Duyckinck, Mary (Aunt Polly), Sin, 
 
 89. 
 
 Eagle Packet, 112. 
 Edwards, E. V., 62. 
 Edwards, Pierpont, 332, 411. 
 
 Ellis, , 209. 
 
 Ellison, William, 364. 
 Ellsworth, Oliver, 372. 
 Ely, John, on capture, 34; proposed 
 exchange, 39; returns to New York, 
 
 93- 
 
 Emmet, Thomas Addis, 456. 
 England, Richard, 88. 
 Ensigns, appointments of, 210. 
 
 Erving, , 343. 
 
 Eules, , 79. 
 
 Evans, Abiathar, 160. 
 Experiment, 127, 140. 
 
 Fairlie, James, 442. 
 Falcon, 35. 
 
 Fanning, David, 15272. 
 Fanning, Elisha, 15271. 
 Fanning, Thomas, 50. 
 Farteshew, Ann, 12. 
 Fenwick, Robert, 18. 
 Ferris, Jedidiah, 270. 
 Fish, Nicholas, 274. 
 
 Fitzhugh, ,87. 
 
 Fleury, Francois Louis de, 359. 
 Flint, Eliakim, 430. 
 Flint, Eliphalet, 435. 
 Flint, Royal, 97. 
 Ford, Jacob, 424^, 446. 
 Fortune, James, 463. 
 
 Fortune, Luke, 52, 124. 
 
 Fox, 2$n. 
 
 Franklin, Samuel, 101. 
 
 Franklin, Walter, 101. 
 
 Franklin, William, 86, 91. 
 
 Franks, David, 427. 
 
 Freeman, Jonathan, Jr., 274, 327, 348, 
 
 349, 358, 359, 361, 362. 
 French leave Hartford, 231. 
 Frink, Nathan, 51, 59, 60, 121; letters, 
 
 53, 54, 61, 68, 87, 96. 
 Fullerton, Nathaniel, 435, 437. 
 Furloughs, 1 80. 
 
 Gage, Thomas, to attend the Con 
 gress, ii. 
 
 Galpen, Daniel, 294. 
 
 Gardoqui, Diego de, 374. 
 
 Gassharel, Haring, 318. 
 
 Gates, 127. 
 
 Gault, Robert, 101. 
 
 Gautier, , 148. 
 
 Gibraltar, 3. 
 
 Giles, Aquila, in, 146. 
 
 Gillet, Jacob, 164. 
 
 Goes, Dirck, 441. 
 
 Goff, Gideon, 246. 
 
 Goodale, Nathan, 114. 
 
 Goodrich, Elihu Chauncey, 390, 421, 
 428. 
 
 Goodrich, Elizur, 123. 
 
 Goodrich, \Vait, 124, 272, 297. 
 
 Graham, Catharine Macauley, 268. 
 
 Grant, Ann, letters, 45. 
 
 Gray, James, 196. 
 
 Greaton, John, 153, 211. 
 
 Green, J., ensign, 59, 61; letter, 64. 
 
 Green, captain, 340. 
 
 Greene, Catherine (Littlefield), 137, 
 
 139, 37 2 - 
 
 Greene, Nathanael, 91. 
 Grenell, Amasa, 246. 
 Greyhound, 122. 
 
 Gridley, , 441. 
 
 Griswold, William, 124, 12711. 
 Grosvenor, Thomas, 211. 
 
 Hackley, Azunah, 148, 197. 
 Hall, Elihu, 89. 
 
INDEX 
 
 485 
 
 Hall, Fitch, 325. 
 
 Hall, Giles, Jr., 127^. 
 
 Hallet, Joseph, 101, 249. 
 
 Hallet, Thomas, 152, 166. 
 
 Hamilton, Archibald, 25. 
 
 Hamlin, Richard, 6. 
 
 Hammond, Samuel, 432. 
 
 Hamtranck, John Francis, 274. 
 
 Hancock, 122. 
 
 Hand, Edward, 182, 219. 
 
 Hanmer, John, 124. 
 
 Harm wood, captain, 35. 
 
 Harnage, Henry, 133. 
 
 Hart, John, 38, 145, 155. 
 
 Haskell, Elnathan, 321, 325, 327, 333, 
 
 334, 338, 343, 346. 
 Hastings, Jonathan, Jr., 33. 
 Havanna, the, 170, 190, 307. 
 Hay, Udney, 119, 141, 227. 
 Hayes, Mrs., 60, 65. 
 Hazard, Ebenezer, 288, 331. 
 Hazard, Thomas, 330. 
 
 Hazard, , 174, 186. 
 
 Hazen, Moses, 151. 
 
 Heath, William, advice, 141; message, 
 
 202; certificates of discharge, 213. 
 Henley, David, 60, 209. 
 Hepburn, Stacy, 251. 
 Heron, James, 88, 99. 
 Hessian, as servant, 248. 
 Hibernia, 12311. 
 Hickox, Asher, 246. 
 Hill, captaui, 7. 
 Hillegas, Michael, 299. 
 Hillman, Joseph, 1 24. 
 Hindman, William, 283. 
 Hinsdale, D., 286. 
 Hitchcock, Abel, 246. 
 Hodgson, Samuel, 342, 360. 
 Hoffman, Heman, 440. 
 Hoffman, Nicholas, 312. 
 Hogeboom, Killian, 464. 
 Hogeboom, Lawrence, 42472. 
 Hogeboom, Stephen, 421, 424, 426, 
 
 428, 432, 441. 
 
 Holdridge, , 421. 
 
 Holmes, Silas, 253. 
 Holton, Samuel, 292. 
 Hood, James, 190;?. 
 
 Hooker, James, 246. 
 
 Hop, invitations to, 103. 
 
 Hopkins, Charles, 407. 
 
 Hopkins, Elisha, 86, 164, 165; as to 
 joining regiment, 149; released, 147; 
 letters, 44, 134, 147, 149, 182. 
 
 Horses, sales of, 22, 32, 87; order on, 
 174. 
 
 Horsmanden, Daniel, 47. 
 
 Hosmer, Hezekiah L., 425, 454. 
 
 Hosmer, Prosper, 184. 
 
 Hosmer, Titus, 5, 8, Sin; letter, 140. 
 
 Howard, Miss, 43, 57, 65. 
 
 Howdings, , 43. 
 
 Howe, Sir William, leaves Boston, 23 ; 
 cartel, 60. 
 
 Howel, Nicholas, 246. 
 
 Howell, John, 460. 
 
 Howell, Richard, 460. 
 
 Hubbard, George, 246. 
 
 Hubbard, Nehemiah, 123, 130, 235. 
 
 Hude, Polly, 177. 
 
 Hughes, Hugh, 159, 395. 
 
 Hughes, William, 164. 
 
 Hull, William, 184. 
 
 Humphreys, David, 371, 395, 409, 416. 
 
 Hunt, Alexander, 123. 
 
 Huntington, Andrew, 30. 
 
 Huntington, Ebenezer, escapes cap 
 ture, 36; absence, 177; letters, 137, 
 1 80, 184, 185, 205. 
 
 Huntington, Jabez, 35, 36, 195, 201. 
 
 Huntington, Jedidiah, 34, 230, 253. 
 
 Huntington, Joshua, 36, 124. 
 
 Huntington, Samuel, 69. 
 
 Imlay, William, 123. 
 
 Ingraham, , 305. 
 
 Inoculation, 184. 
 Irvine, William, 84. 
 Ivers, Thomas, 329. 
 Izard, Henry, 361, 410. 
 Izard, Ralph, 36 2n. 
 
 Jackson, Henry, 198, 250. 
 Jackson, James, 407. 
 Jackson, Samuel, 246. 
 Jackson, Thomas Frederick, 212. 
 Jarvis, Samuel, 249. 
 
486 
 
 INDEX 
 
 Jason, 136. 
 Jauncey, James, 24. 
 Jay, Frederick, 122. 
 Jay, John, 363, 445- 
 Jay, Mrs. John, 298. 
 
 Jefferson, ,412. 
 
 Jepson, William, 169. 
 
 Jersey, 100, 191. 
 
 "Johnny Crook," 104. 
 
 Johnson, Horace, 298, 313, 317. 
 
 Johnson, Jonathan, 211, 322. 
 
 Johnson, Nancy, 58, 65, 72. 
 
 Johnson, T., 237. 
 
 Johnson, William Samuel, 14, 68, 71, 
 
 262. 
 
 Johnstone, Cornelia, 1887*. 
 Jones, John, 81. 
 Jones, P., 266. 
 Joseph, 309, 312. 
 
 Kayaderossares, 2. 
 
 Kean, John, 283. 
 
 Keeler, Isaac, 162, 164. 
 
 Keens, James, 88, in, 112. 
 
 Keese, John, 158. 
 
 Kellogg, Stephen, 167. 
 
 King, John, 472. 
 
 King, Mary (Alsop), 286. 
 
 King, Rufus, 286, 289, 326. 
 
 Knox, Henry, 236, 240, 260, 263, 266. 
 
 Knox, Lucy, 60, 282. 
 
 Laight, William, 419. 
 Lathrop, Thomas, 180. 
 Lawrence, Efnngham, 309, 342, 397. 
 Lawrence, Thomas, 363. 
 
 Lawrence, , captain, 7. 
 
 Leake, Ann, 224. 
 Leake, John G., 22472. 
 Leake, Robert, 22472, 229/2. 
 Leake, Robert William, 224/2. 
 Leave of absence, orders, 180. 
 Lebanon Pool, 337, 346. 
 Lee, Arthur, 299. 
 Lee, Charles, 47, 53. 
 Lee, Colonel, 313. 
 
 Lefferts, , 2. 
 
 Lefferts, Leffert, 78. 
 Leidle, George, 197. 
 
 Le Roy, Catharine, 307*2. 
 
 Le Roy, Jacob, 307, 419. 
 
 Leverett, Thomas, 271, 329. 
 
 Lewis, Edward, 198. 
 
 Lewis, Morgan, 92. 
 
 Lillie, John, 60. 
 
 Limboshire, 134. 
 
 Lispenard, Amelia, 351. 
 
 Litchfield, Conn., inoculation hospital, 
 
 75- 
 
 Livingston, Catherine \V., 103. 
 Livingston, Henry, 265, 273, 275, 365, 
 
 392, 424, 426, 436, 445, 462, 473. 
 Livingston, Henry Brockholst, 298. 
 Livingston, Henry W., 330. 
 Livingston, John, 106, 279, 446. 
 Livingston, Peter V. B., 25872. 
 Livingston, Philip, 417. 
 Livingston, Robert R., 345. 
 Livingston, Sarah Van Brugh, 298/2. 
 Livingston, Walter, 336, 424, 427. 
 Livingston, William, 98, 10472. 
 Livingston, William, 13772. 
 Livingston, William, Jr., 311, 313, 315, 
 
 318. 
 
 Livingston, William S., 32, 97, 440. 
 Lloyd, Abby, 249. 
 Lockwood, James, 124, 149, 216. 
 Lockwood, John, 311. 
 Lockwood, Samuel, 429. 
 Lockwood, William, 429. 
 Loring, Joshua, 47, 86, 88, in, 115, 
 
 120. 
 
 Lothrop, John, 425. 
 Lothrop, John W., 432. 
 Lott, Abraham, 137/2, 138, 410. 
 Lott, Andrew^ 137/2. 
 Lott, Catherine, 13 772. 
 Lott, Cornelia, 137/2. 
 Lottery, 2, 56, 66, 74, 342, 418, 423, 428. 
 Loudon, Samuel, 120, 158. 
 Lounsbury, David, 246. 
 Lowther, William, 101. 
 Ludlow, Gary, 344. 
 Ludlow, James, 468. 
 Ludlow, William Henry, 444. 
 
 Ludlow, , 81. 
 
 Lyman, , 79. 
 
 Lyon, Joseph, 434. 
 
INDEX 
 
 487 
 
 McConnell, Matthew, 414, 419. 
 McCormick, Daniel, 101. 
 McDermott, Terence, 40. 
 McDonald, James, 22. 
 Macdougall, Alexander, 76, 433. 
 McEvers, Charles, 29172, 307, 331, 369. 
 McEvers, James, 272, 280, 281, 291^, 
 
 306, 328, 331, 369, 372, 390, 405. 
 
 McEwen, , 255. 
 
 McFarran, Thomas, 101. 
 
 McKenzie, B., 105. 
 
 McKenzie, Colin, 51. 
 
 McKinstry, John, 433. 
 
 McQueen, John, 432. 
 
 Magaw, Robert, 88, 115; marriage of, 
 
 in; letter, 215. 
 Malcom, Dr., 466, 471. 
 
 Mandeville, , 212. 
 
 Mann, Thomas M., 471. 
 Mansfield, John, 221. 
 Mardant s drops, 333. 
 Marston, Thomas, 351. 
 
 Mathews, , 146. 
 
 Matthews, George, 406. 
 
 Matthews, Jesse, 164. 
 
 Mauregnault, de, & Cusson, 6, 9. 
 
 Maxwell, William, 101. 
 
 May, Samuel, 372. 
 
 May, William, 5, 123. 
 
 Mayflower, 19072. 
 
 Medals, Columbia, 350, 353. 
 
 Meigs, John, 161, 167, 341. 
 
 Meigs, Return Jonathan, $n. 
 
 Melville, Mrs., 79. 
 
 Mercer, Robert, 101. 
 
 Merrill, Manning, 154, 156. 
 
 Mifflin, Thomas, 27. 
 
 Miller, Ashur, 305, 3 1 5. 
 
 Miller, Christopher, 47. 
 
 Miller, Eleazer, 305, 319. 
 
 Miller, John, 249. 
 
 Mills on the Rariton, 188, 199, 200, 
 
 206, 222, 277, 348. 
 
 Miner, Robert, 101. 
 Minerva, 7, 166. 
 Mint, United States, 427. 
 Minthorn, Michael, 163. 
 Mitchell, James, 25^, 425. 
 Mitchell, Stephen, 124. 
 
 Mix, Anne, 8. 
 
 Mix, Ebenzer, 8. 
 
 Mix, Elisha, 8. 
 
 Mix, John, 8. 
 
 Mobson, Miss, 43. 
 
 Moncrieffe, Thomas, 146. 
 
 Monson, John, 362. 
 
 Moore, Benjamin, 453. 
 
 Moore, Daniel, 48. 
 
 Moore, Edward, 437. 
 
 Moore, Sir Henry, 269. 
 
 Moore, John, 254. 
 
 Morgan, John, 463. 
 
 Morris, James, 75. 
 
 Morris, Lewis, 143. 
 
 Morris, Lewis R., 326. 
 
 Morris, Richard, 28 2n. 
 
 Morris, Robert, Jr., 301. 
 
 Morris, Robert Hunter, 28 in. 
 
 Moss, Reuben, 246. 
 
 Moylan, Stephen, 409, 416, 435. 
 
 Mulherins, Richard, 433. 
 
 Mumford, Giles, service of, 28; ex 
 changed, 94. 
 
 Mumford, Thomas, 31, 44, i66n; on 
 appointment for son, 28; on ex 
 change of prisoners, 39; hope of 
 exchange for a foreign capture, 93; 
 loss of wife, 94; refitting Hancock, 
 121; declines phaeton, 132. 
 
 Musters, defects in, 205, 209. 
 
 Myer, John R., 352. 
 
 Neave, Richard, sends invoice, i; 
 
 sends deeds, 7; trusted Bancker, 
 
 268; letters, i, 7. 
 Neave, Richard, Jr., 355. 
 Neilson, William, 8gn. 
 Nelson, John, 188, 190, 191. 
 Nevins, David, 180. 
 Newson, John, 425. 
 Newton, Thomas, 123. 
 New York, operations against, 145; 
 
 condition of enemy, 221; British 
 
 leaving, 223; Mrs. Bancker to go 
 
 to, 247; politics, 424, 426. 
 Nichols, Charles, 55. 
 Nicoll, S., 92. 
 Nicols, Daniel, 465. 
 
488 
 
 INDEX 
 
 North, William, 197, 247. 
 Northrup, Isaac, 246. 
 Notes, soldiers , 153. 
 
 Noyes, , 368. 
 
 Nutter, John, 22. 
 
 Oberle, , 279, 300. 
 
 Ogden, Abraham, 198, 206, 311. 
 
 Ogden, David A., 459. 
 
 Ogden, David B., 459. 
 
 Olcott, George, surgical instruments 
 
 wanted, 135. 
 Oliver Cromwell, 37. 
 Olney, George, 139. 
 Osborn, David, 369. 
 Otis, Samuel Alleyne, 129. 
 Otsego county, N. Y., election in, 449. 
 
 Page, William, 77. 
 
 Palmer, Thomas, survey of patent, 2. 
 
 Parker, Abraham, 246. 
 
 Parker, Daniel, 216. 
 
 Parliament, legislates on American 
 duties, i. 
 
 Parsons, David, 160, 165, 171^. 
 
 Parsons, Jabez, 165. 
 
 Parsons, James, 101. 
 
 Parsons, Samuel Holden, 87, 151, 161, 
 249, 291; dangerous situation, 35; 
 political comments, 64; exchanges, 
 70; aid asked, 76; order on de 
 serters, 150. 
 
 Parsons, Theophilus, 343. 
 
 Pasley, Barry & Little, 423. 
 
 Pass, military, 98, 100, 135, 146. 
 
 Paterson, William, 357, 367. 
 
 Pay table, committee of, 133. 
 
 Pearsall, Thomas, 101. 
 
 Pendleton, , 431. 
 
 Perry, Hayes & Sherbrooke, 56, 332. 
 
 Peyster, A. M. de, 257. 
 
 Phaeton, offer of, 131. 
 
 Phenix, Daniel, 305, 306, 332. 
 
 Pickering, Timothy, 342. 
 
 Piety Parlor, Flatbush, 100. 
 
 Pintard, John, 93. 
 
 Pintard, Lewis, 78, 84, 92. 
 
 Platt, Ebenezer, 123. 
 
 Platt, Jeremiah, 123. 
 
 Platt, Richard, 239, 285, 289, 295, 
 299, 412, 422, 451, 458. 
 
 Pointer, wanted, 276, 298, 411, 459. 
 
 Poling, Joseph, 141. 
 
 Pollock & Urquhart, 255. 
 
 Polly, 423- 
 
 Pomeroy, Ralph, 157, 291. 
 
 Pompey, 451. 
 
 Popham, William, 420. 
 
 Porter, Daniel, 246. 
 
 Porter, Moses, 246. 
 
 Posts, continental, 15?*, 24. 
 
 Prisoners, money for, 84; list of, on 
 parole, 107; at Boston, no; neg 
 lected, 142. 
 
 Privateers, 127, 136. 
 
 Pulford, Elisha, 196. 
 
 Putnam, Israel, horse for, 22. 
 
 Putnam, Rufus, 2im, 258^. 
 
 Radcliff, Jacob, 445. 
 
 Ramage, Smith, 101. 
 
 Ramsay, Nathaniel, 90, 106. 
 
 Ramsey, John, 101. 
 
 Randolph, Robert, 87. 
 
 Rankin, Robert, 117. 
 
 Ransom, Elijah, 196. 
 
 Read, Jacob, 292. 
 
 Recovery, 123. 
 
 Recruits, character of, 209. 
 
 Remsen, Henry, 89, 258. 
 
 Renfield, Dr., 227. 
 
 Rice, John, 133. 
 
 Rice, Nehemiah, 164^, 165^. 
 
 Richardson, John, 70. 
 
 Riley, Ashbel, 123, 150. 
 
 Riley, John,, on Long Island, 44; 
 
 money for, 77. 
 Riley, Justus, 123, 330, 476. 
 Rings, mourning, 252. 
 Robbins, A., 123. 
 Roberts, D., 21. 
 Roberts, John, 164. 
 Roberts, Stephen, 246. 
 Robertson, Alexander, 101, 414. 
 Robertson, Peter, 152. 
 Rogers, Zabdiel, sends merchandise, 
 
 3- 
 Rogers, captain, 109. 
 
INDEX 
 
 489 
 
 Rogers, Berry and, 95. 
 Rose, John, 186. 
 Rowe, Nicholas, 597^. 
 Russell, Ashur, 18372. 
 Russell, John, 13. 
 Rynean, , 358. 
 
 Sage, Nathan, 124, 12772. 
 
 St. John, Aaron, 164. 
 
 St. John de Crevecceur, Hector, 254, 
 
 375- 
 
 St. John, Jesse, 246. 
 Salmon, 336, 339, 415, 426. 
 Saltonstall, Dudley, 2872, 166. 
 Sands, Comfort, 13772, 25872. 
 Sargent, Winthrop, 258, 269, 354, 356. 
 Savage, James, 424. 
 Scammell, Alexander, 148, 160. 
 Schemerhorn, Peter, 432. 
 Schenck and VanBuren, 348, 357, 367. 
 Schuyler, Philip, 237*, 135. 
 Schuyler, 34. 
 Scott, Ezekiel, 296. 
 
 Scovel, ,437. 
 
 Seagrove, James, 48, 92, 101, 170, 191, 
 
 251, 286, 310, 316, 319, 320, 322 
 
 344, 361, 39, 472. 
 Seaman, Edmund, 101. 
 Sebor, Jacob, 68, 76, 89, 91. 
 Sebor, James, 317. 
 Seeds and roots, captured, 1 54. 
 Selby, Thomson and, 101. 
 Servants, unruly, 244. 
 Sewall, Henry, 203. 
 Seymour, George, 304. 
 Seymour, Thomas, 305, 369, 373, 383. 
 Shad, 363. 
 Shaler, Nathaniel, 67, 264, 277, 284, 
 
 291, 304, 313. 
 Sharp, Richard, 93. 
 Shaw, John, 276, 298. 
 Sheldon, Simeon, 16572. 
 Sherbrooke, Eliza, 4872. 
 Sherbrooke, Miles, 4872, 72, 85, 272, 
 
 280; plea for release, 24; family and 
 
 Webb, 41, 43. 
 Sherman, Isaac, 164, 174. 
 Shrub, 1 60. 
 Sill, Richard, 430. 
 
 Simcoe, John Graves, 120. 
 
 Simpson, John, loyalist, on Deane, 13, 
 16; sale of goods, 14, 15, 17, 271; 
 urged to leave Boston, 18; question 
 of removing, 19; wants fresh pro 
 vision, 21 ; letters, 13, 15, 18, 21. 
 
 Simpson, Jonathan, 271, 372, 373, 
 39 2 , 393, 397, 398, 399, 402, 425. 
 
 Simpson, Sarah (Webb), 18; letters, 
 41, 49, 57, 60, 65, 72. See Barrell. 
 
 Skeels, William, 218. 
 
 Slaves, trade in, 438. 
 
 Smedley, , 123. 
 
 Smith, Belinda, 195, 201, 371, 372, 384. 
 
 Smith, Charity, 317. 
 
 Smith, Daniel, 290, 296, 300. 
 
 Smith, David, 221, 231, 236. 
 
 Smith, George, 435. 
 
 Smith, John, 62, 69, 217, 245;?. 
 
 Smith, Mrs. John (Margaret), 49, 217, 
 24572. 
 
 Smith, Justus B., 245. 
 
 Smith, Mary, 256. 
 
 Smith, Oliver, 79. 
 
 Smith, Richard, 248. 
 
 Smith, Robert, 414. 
 
 Smith, Thomas, 256, 352. 
 
 Smith, William, 256. 
 
 Smith, William Stephens, 245/2, 251. 
 
 Soldiers notes in payments, 215. 
 
 Speculation in securities, 284, 287, 289, 
 295, 422. 
 
 Spencer, Ambrose, 453. 
 
 Spencer, Thomas, 165. 
 
 Sperry, Army, 246. 
 
 Spyers, Miss, 7. 
 
 Stables, Maria Henrietta, 7, 268, 355. 
 
 Stanley, , tailor, 6, 24. 
 
 Stanly, George, 123. 
 
 Stanly, Thomas, 245. 
 
 Starr, George, 124. 
 
 Steuben, Baron, 197, 200, 202, 247, 312. 
 
 Stewart, James and Alexander, 101, 
 420. 
 
 Stewart, Walter, 139, 186. 
 
 Stewart, Wat, describes Gibraltar, 2. 
 
 Stillman, Allyn, 124. 
 
 Stillman, Joseph, 372. 
 
 Stirling, Lord, 116, 212. 
 
490 
 
 INDEX 
 
 Stocking, Z., 10. 
 Stoddard, Frederick, 246. 
 Stone, Thomas, 164. 
 Storer, Ebenezer, 218. 
 Stores, Prentice, 30. 
 Stringer, Samuel, 23. 
 Strong, Israel, 157, 160, 185. 
 Stuart, James, 449, 450, 467. 
 Surinam, bills on, 140, 438. 
 Sutfin, Peter, 460. 
 Sutherland, Abbot, no. 
 Suydam, John, 358. 
 Swan, John, 99, 108. 
 Swan wick, Richard, 113. 
 Swift, Heman, 211, 230. 
 
 Tallmadge, Benjamin, 77, 227. 
 
 Tanner, Thomas, 114. 
 
 Tavern, Peter Lenox, 113. 
 
 Taylor, Moses, 124. 
 
 Taylor, Timothy, 168. 
 
 Temple, Sir John, 118; losses of, 29, 
 
 144. 
 
 Tenbroeck, John, 460. 
 Ternant, Jean Baptiste, 186. 
 Thomas, David, 456, 466, 469, 473. 
 Thomas, John, 246. 
 Thompson, Samuel, 150. 
 Thompson, William, 88, 108, 115. 
 Thomson and Selby, 101. 
 Thrasher, Asahel, 435. 
 Totten, Robert, 101. 
 Towles, Oliver, 134. 
 Tracy, Elisha, i8jn. 
 Troop, Robert, 92, 297. 
 Trumbull, John, 51, 411, 418. 
 Trumbull, Jonathan, 157. 
 Tryon, Moses, 136, 463. 
 Tryon, William, 78. 
 Tudor, Elihu, 57, 71. 
 Turner, George, 381. 
 Turner, Philip, 187. 
 Twelve s Letter, 108. 
 Tyler, Royall, 343, 347- 
 
 Uniform, decision on, 237. 
 
 Van Brunt, Rutgers, 215. 
 
 Van Buren, Abraham, 348, 357, 367. 
 
 Van Cortlandt, Augustus, 351. 
 
 Vanderbilt, , 117. 
 
 Van Dyck, Henry, 80, 82, 87. 
 
 Van Horne, Ann, 54, 59, 62, 66, 68, 81. 
 
 Van Horne, Augustus, 332, 340. 
 
 Van Horne, David, 54^, 68. 
 
 Van Nest, Abraham, 279. 
 
 Van Rensselaer, Jacob R., 390, 465. 
 
 Van Rensselaer, John Jacob, 456. 
 
 Van Rensselaer, Killian K., 393. 
 
 Vans, William, Jr., 358, 361, 362. 
 
 Van Schaick, Peter, 441. 
 
 Van Zandt, Catharine, 103. 
 
 Van Zandt, Jacobus, 98. 
 
 Verplanck, Gulian, 187, 221, 224, 367. 
 
 Violang, , 124. 
 
 Wadsworth, D., 285. 
 
 Wadsworth, Jeremiah, at Mole St. 
 Nicholas, 9; loses a horse, 26; on 
 waste of army stores, 26; on letters, 
 33; order for articles, 102; pass 
 to New York, 162; has money, 
 226; recommends Webb for War 
 Office, 260; attentive, 262; debt, 
 281; honoring drafts, 295; under 
 suspicion, 304; to be sounded, 415; 
 letters, 97, 125, 128, 141, 162, 263, 
 266, 372, 373, 418. 
 
 W T adsworth, Manning, 425. 
 
 Waldo, , 187. 
 
 Walker, Joseph, 163. 
 
 Wallace, Alexander, 24. 
 
 Wallace, Hill, S8n. 
 
 Wallace, Hugh, 24^. 
 
 Wallace, John, S8n. 
 
 Walling, Joseph, 198, 225. 
 
 W T alton, William, 102. 
 
 Ward, Daniel, 186. 
 
 Warner, Robert, 211. 
 
 Washington, George, 24, 100, 135, 
 325^; cartel, 60; general orders, 
 180; boots, 234; sturgeon for, 241; 
 inauguration as President, 374; at 
 Hartford, 408. 
 
 Washington, 127. 
 
 W T atson, James, 123, 132, 224, 226, 
 467, 468. 
 
 Watson, John, 270. 
 
INDEX 
 
 491 
 
 Watson, Josiah, 255. 
 
 Watts, R., 311. 
 
 Webb, Abigail, 8, 72, 370. 
 
 Webb, Harriet, 192. 
 
 Webb, John, 8, 73, 156, 216; changed, 
 49; debt to Mumford, 131, 132; 
 sympathy for loss of wife, 172; to 
 visit Quebec, 271; speculation, 284- 
 320; to Georgia, 326, 328, 332, 336, 
 354; temper, 337; letters, see con 
 tents. 
 
 Webb, Joseph (grandfather), 416, 430. 
 
 Webb, Joseph, 7, 1 23 ; release of vessel, 
 ijn; successful voyage, 25; recom 
 mends Fortune, 52; privateer cap 
 ture, 140; seizure of vessel, 217, 220; 
 on Silas Deane, 259; letters, see 
 contents. 
 
 Webb, Mary N., 457. 
 
 Webb, Mehitabel, 42, 153. 
 
 Webb, Samuel Blachley, 8; order for 
 clothing, 27; captured, 34, 35; 
 plans exchange, 36; parole, 63; 
 released on parole, gin; a com 
 mercial venture, 100; released on 
 parole, 115; phaeton, 131; battal 
 ion, 140; goes to Connecticut, 168; 
 death of wife, 172; on uniform, 237; 
 on use of boat, 240; service, 257; 
 secretaryship at war, 260; for west 
 ern territory, 291, 292; duel, 313; 
 urged to go west, 354; toasts, 413; 
 letters, 32, 71, 106, 131, 252, 334, 
 
 374, 444- 
 Webb, Sarah, 8. See Simpson and 
 
 Barrell. 
 
 Webster, Ashbel, 435. 
 Wemple. See Wimple. 
 West, Jeremiah, 186. 
 Wethersfield, schools at, 391. 
 W heeler, Benjamin, 246. 
 White, Anthony Walton, 62. 
 White, Joel, 22. 
 White, Jonathan W., 210. 
 
 Whiting, Charles, service, 4^; letter, 4. 
 Whiting, Nathan Haynes, 196. 
 Wickham, George D., 314. 
 Wickham, Sarah, 282, 423. 
 Wickham, William, 282^, 283, 302, 
 
 318. 
 
 Wilcox, Giles, 246. 
 Wiley, John, 106. 
 Willement, William, 368. 
 Williams, Ezekiel, 256. 
 Williams, Moses, 124. 
 Williams, Otho Holland, 47, 104, 107, 
 
 161, 2iin. 
 Williams, Samuel William, 163. 
 
 Willing, , 113. 
 
 Wimple, Walter Vrooman, 23, 390. 
 Wine, 420, 423. 
 Winslow, John, 41, 83. 
 Winthrop, Benjamin, 53^. 
 Winthrop, Robert, 5372. 
 Winthrop, Thomas Lindall, 144. 
 Winthrop, William, 310. 
 Wisner, Henry, 318. 
 Witherspoon, John, 119. 
 Wolcott, Erastus ; 196. 
 Woodhouse, Lemuel, 435. 
 
 Wooster, , 216. 
 
 Wright, Ebenezer, 124. 
 
 Wright, Elijah, 123. 
 
 Wright, John, 123, 249, 286. 
 
 Wright, Joseph A., 231, 237. 
 
 Wright, Thomas, 435. 
 
 Wyllys, Chester, 124. 
 
 Wyllys, Hezekiah, 123. 
 
 Wyllys, John Palsgrave, 148, 212; 
 
 service of, 31; letters, 177, 203. 
 
 X. Y. Z. letters, 454^. 
 
 Yates, Robert, 445, 456. 
 
 Yorick, 358, 362. 
 
 York, i, 12. 
 
 Youngs, Isaac or Israel, 25. 
 
 Yrujo, Don Carlos Martinez, 470. 
 
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