Recipient's Letterbook Copy

Pay for an Officer's Widow

The author affirms the date of James Wilson's death and pleads ignorance as to the length of Wilson's desertion. He probably returned to the Army in January 1781 and therefore his widow deserves his pay from that time until he was killed in May of the same year. Captain Ross's claims are also enclosed along with Col. Cunningham's adjusted claims. Lt.(?) Ramsay also needs to be given a Certificate for the amount due him.

1786

01

26

Philadelphia

Howell addressed as "sir"

Joseph Howell

John Nicholson

Cap. Ferguson

James Wilson

his Widow

vice president of this state

Captain Ross

Col. Cunningham

Dav. McCanarby(?)Esq.

Lt.(?)Ramsay

Philadelphia

Southward

your pardon for the error I committed

Cap. Ferguson's amounts

the revolt

his affection and care for her

his death

pay that was due him

her subsistence

information contained in your letter

enclosed claims

my hands

the Certificates

the amount of Lt.(?)Ramsay

enclosed account

1786012670055

13

(13)

Philada. 26. January 1786.

Dr. Sir,

I must ask of you your pardon for the error I committed about Cap. Furguson's accounts — it is herewith sent — James Wilson was Shot on the 24 May 1781. I do not know what time he returned from desertion of Jany. 1780 — It is probable not until shortly before the revolt — perhaps in January 1781, — he was not discharged, his widow says — she appears to be a woman of veracity — She very particularly affected me when she told me of his affection and care for her had caused his Death — that he was anxious to get some pay that was due him, to send her for her subsistence before he marched to the Southward — I thank you for the information contained in your Letter of the 16. Inst.

The vice president of this State put the enclosed claims of Captain Ross into my hands — pray settle them and return the Certificates — have you adjusted the account of Col. Cunningham of the Flying Camp — You will be pleased also to send the Certificate per Post.

I am &c Jno. Nicholson

P. S. I was requested by Davd. McCanaughy Esqr. to endeavour to get the account of Lt. Ramsay settled — he deliv'd me the enclosed acct — if you will be so good as to have a Certificate for it also transmitted, you will oblige yours &c J. N.