Alexander McDougall to John Jay, 21 March 1779

Head Quarters Peeks–€”Kill March 21 st . 1779

My Dear Sir

This will be delivered to you, by M r . Elijah Hunter–€”whom I suppose, you know, as a Friend to the common Cause of America. He goes to Philadelphia, on a Matter of importance, which he will communicate to you–€” 1 It is of a very important and delicate Nature,–€” And I have my Doubts, on the Expediency of it–€™s being divulged, to any other Person whatsoever. If it is, there is Danger, that the Object of the Plan will be frustrated–€” It is already unavoidably into many Hands–€” The Lives of four Citizens depend on it–€™s remaining ^ a ^ secret; besides the great Utility intended by the System proving abortive . I am my Dear Sir Your affectionate humble Servant

Alex: r M c Dougall

John Jay, Esquire 12 PM