John Jay to Alexander McDougall, 4 December 1775

[Philad. 4. Decr. 1775–€”]

Dear Sir

The Congress have at Length determined against the Tea holders–€” 1 a Measure in my opinion neither just or politic. The objections offered to the Prayer of the Petition, were merely ostensible & consequently frivolous. I fancy you may easily discern the things on which this strange Decision turned. There is no Tea southward of this Place but what has paid Duty. &c. &c.

I mentioned to the Congress this morning, the anxiety which some of the Chambly Officers expressed to you, relative to the Separation of that Garrison–€”On examining the Articles we find nothing to warrant their Construction, and consequently the Congress do not think proper to alter that arrangement. 2 If those Gent. had any assurances from the General that the Garrison should remain together or in any other Way were led to consider that as one of the Terms of Capitulation, I wish to be made acquainted with it. Your Observations on the Faith of Treaties are founded in Policy as well as Justice, and I am confident the Congress on being informed of any Errors of that Kind would most readily correct all Mistakes.

The late valorous Expedition against Rivington gives me Pain. 3 I feel for the Honor of the Colony, and most sincerely hope they will upon this occasion act a Part that may do some little Credit to their Spirit as well as Prudence.

Would it be possible for you to furnish the Jersey Troops with any Arms? 4 Remember your Accounts–€”Several other Colonies are now pressing a Settlemt of theirs. The sooner ours are liquidated the better. 5

I hope your Convention will soon tell us whether they mean to make any & what Provision for us. Unless something of this Kind is soon done, I must return, my Finances being exhausted, and my Absence from Home putting it out of my Power to collect money. 6 I am Dear Sir your Friend & hble Serv t

John Jay

Be so kind as to give the enclosed to young Hamilton 7