John Jay to John Morin Scott, 22 June [20 July] 1774

[N York 22 d June 1774]

Sir

I was much surprised last Evening on being informed that in your speech of yesterday at the Coffee house (the Conclusion of which only I heard) you charged the drawers of the resolves then under Consideration with a design of thereby disuniting the Colonies.

On what Evidence you found an accusation . . . I am at a loss to conceive: but as it cannot be presumed you would wantonly sport with the reputation of persons whose attachment to the interest of their Country has never yet been questioned, you doubtless rest your opinion on Reasons you judge sufficient to support it . 1

By the printed hand bill you will perceive Sir, that I was one of the Committee by whom these Resolves were formed, 2 and am therefore deeply interested in obtaining from you a Candid and open declaration of the reasons by which you mean to justify holding us up to publick view in a Point of Light which men of Common honesty and spirit can neither merit nor permit. This is a piece of Justice which regard to my Character urges me to ask, and which I flatter myself you will have no objections to give. I am Sir Your hble Servt

John Jay.–€”

To John Morin Scott Esq