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Philadelphia 11th. March 1786 —

Dear Sir,

Since I had the pleasure of seeing you last I have made what enquiry I could. relative to the time my Brother in law John Rea was in the Continental Army and which is nearly as follows —

— In the beginning of the Year 1776 he entered into the Militia — continued in that for about two months — he then entered into the flying Camp and continued there about three months — he then entered as Qr. Master in the 6th. Regiment in the Continental Line, under the command of Colonel Becker, who is at present in New York — after continuing there until some time in June 1778 he was taken prisoner in Montgomery County & Township by a party of British light horse, brought by them to Philadelphia & kept here about three months, when they took him with them prisoner to Long Island, where they kept him some time, and from which he made his escape, and entered then on board the Holkes Ship of War — This is the particulars of what I can learn from Captains Henderson & Craig who knew him, and as it was impossible his accounts could be made out sooner than others, I would expect there will appear something handsome due his Heirs.

From your character I am confident you will make the necessary inquiry, and perhaps if necessary you will be so obliging as to call on Colonel Becker — he may clear

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up matters to your satisfaction

As you desired I have directed this under cover to John Pierce Esquire as also one to Joseph Pennell Esqr. Commissioner of Accounts for the marine department (as John Rea was in the Saratoga two voyages and lost in her) which I shall thank you to deliver to him, if in New York — you told me you would have occasion to write, Mr. Nicholson on a similar enquiry I beg when you do so you may state this matter to him also, and your favor to me at the same time with a few lines directed to me Pear Street near St. Paul’s will particularly oblige him who is with respect Yours &c John Hoope

J. Howell Esqr.