May 7th 1790 To Secy at War Entd Office of Army AccountsNew York 7 May 1790 Sir Application has been made to me for the pay of John Kennedy late a Soldier in the 7th Regt of Massachusetts, said to have been taken prisoner in Decemr 1780 from a want of the Muster Rolls for that period I cannot ascertain the fact, but it appears from the evidence of Mr Joseph Tucker late paymaster to the Regt that he was missing about that time and is was believed that the sd Kennedy was either killed or a prisoner- there appears no other evidence that his own that he was forcibly detained by the Enemy, and from the length of time he has been absent a doubt arises with one whether he of the propriety of granting him issuing Certificates for his pay & Gratuity without some evidence that the sd Kennedy did not voluntarily join the Enemy– You will please to give me your opinion on the subject & directions in what manner I am to act- several other applications of a similar nature are now before me. I am Siryour obedt Ser J Howell The Honble The Secy at War