Joseph Howell discusses army accounts with Jonathan Nicholson
Document 1787Joseph Howell relays the Secretary at War's guidance to John Nicholson. Howell states that Congressional Act of 18 September 1776 only applies to soldiers that served to the end of the war. Asks for list of those who were discharged because of wounds but who had enlisted for duration of war.
New York Decem 10th 1787
Dear Sir
The Secretary at War construes the act of Congress of the 18th September 1776 to extend only to those soldiers who inlisted for and served to the end of the war. Those who were for three years are deprived of the benefit even the heirs of them.
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them who were slain by the enemy, from which the first return you mention will be only necessary.
As the Secretary at War is greatly the friend of the unfortunate soldier I wish you to return those who were discharged in consequence of wounds or other causes provided they inlisted for the war, I believe it is his intentions to memorial congress on their behalf.
The certificate for General Irvine is now inclosed which you will please present him.
I am Sir Yo
J Howell Jr
Jno Nicholson Esq
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