James Duane to John Jay, 11 May 1776

[Philad. 11 May 1776]

I received, my dear Sir, your favour of the 8: Instant 1 and really feel for you in the double distress which attends you. I sincerely wish that in both Instances you may be speedily relieved by the Recovery of Persons so near and dear to you. 2

The Report you mention of the Arrival of Commissioners is not founded on any authority nor Credited–€” 3 A Resolution has passed a Committee of the whole Congress recommending it to the Colonies to assume All the powers of Government. It waits only for a preface and will then be usherd into the world. 4 This in Confidence as res infecta . 5 A Business of still greater moment is on the Carpet–€” 6 you may Judge of my Situation when our Representation is so Slender–€”I hope my Friend Bob is on the way–€” 7 I will do the best I can–€”

The enclosed Note I have Just received from Mr. Lynch 8 it speaks his Sentiments fully with respect to the Horse or rather Mare he wishes you to purchase.

The enclosed Letters I have taken up for you–€”I wish you–€™d send the Note enclosed to M r Jones it relates to a Sum of money he owes our Friend Dick Peters 9 for Land–€”I am with great Regard Your affectionate and most Obedient Servant

Jas. Duane