Notes for Refutation of Financial Impropriety: Page #3

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339

their bills to Philadelphia, but I imagine, most of them will be negotiated here with the merchants. I wish not to distress the Financier, but I am distressed myself, and know not which way to turn, to feed, clothe, and satisfy the army on the article of pay. I would much rather that clothing could have been sent from Philadelphia: but it was too late to inspect any for this season: nor would I wish to negotiate pay to the officers, in this way, but from absolute necessity. Troops will meet their sufferings with dignity and patience, when it appears unavoidable; but when their distresses continues longer, they grow impatient and clamorous. I have drawn only for such officers, as are continued in service, however urgent their necessity; many are discontinued but this I disregard, knowing the state of the Treasury."

No 3.

Extract of a letter from Major General Greneral to Major General Lincoln, Secretary at War, dated, "Charleston. February 2nd 1783"

"Lieutenant Colonel Barrington has closed a contract with Mr. Banks for the subsistence of the army, at something than eleven frence sterling. It is high, but it could not be had lower. There was not an offer made but by Mr. Banks, although I wrote to all the principal men in the country. People have not that spirit for engaging in business, here, as with us.

"I shall get the troops pretty well clothed, and leave little room for complaint on this head, but, I fear, the expense will run high, most

of