Thomas Pitcairn to John Jay, 27 May 1779

Reading, May 27 th 1779

Sir

In Justice to my Brother officers and myself on Parole at this Place, my Duty directs me to adress you. To sett forth the insult and abuse of some persons Inhabitants of Reading; Of which I beg leave to trouble you with a Short naration founded on facts–€” On Saturday last the 23 rd Ins t : Lieut. Dunlop 1 in Company with some ladies of the Place, were walking the Streets, he received several rotten Eggs, thrown by some boys standing a Short distance from him, That was often repeated. He found it necessary to correct the offenders, whose fathers with a mob inmediatly interferd, and beat the Said Lieut: Dunlop in most Inhuman manner, insomuch I find his life was in danger–€”

Lieut. Dunlop was in that condition committed to Jail, under the same rooff with the common Felons. This is a treatment (as Brittish Officers) we cannot look over. We therefore presume to hope the Congress will takes this affair into consideration, that the offenders may be brought to Punishment. Lieut: Dunlop is still Confined and required to give bail and appear at the Quarter Sessions to answer Just Conduct. This is a requisition I presume Congress will by no means think necessary, but on the contrary will consider a Parole sufficient for a Man of honor. also the imposibility of his getting bail being totally unknown to any body here and every man being equally his Enemy. 2 I have the Honor to be, Sir, your most obedient Servant

T: Pitcairn Cap tn . 82 nd Reg t