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Sir:

I do myself the honor to enclose the Extract of a Letter received

from a confidential correspondent in one of the United States. The evil there mentioned is of so dangerous a nature that should it prevail in any degree the consequences may be fatal. I know that the selfish spirit there complained of is but too prevalent. And it is very long since I bore my testimony against it from a just apprehension that the safety of our Country might be thereby endangered. If it is of consequence that a War which has cost already so much Blood and Treasure be safely and honorably concluded, it must be vigorously prosecuted. If it is to be vigorously prosecuted the means must be granted. If the means are to be granted the several States must contribute speedily and effectually. If one has a right to prefer local to general interests others have the same right. If one exercise that privilege so may all, and if all do there is an end of our efforts.

Congress had foreseen the danger and called on the States to provide for collecting the Continental separate from the State Taxes. Since this has not been done perhaps the reasons of the refusal may account for the facts stated in the Extract. I must pray of Your Excellency to provide such remedy to any thing of this sort which may exist in your State, as shall be within your powers, and that you will urge the Legislature to make that solid provision, which can alone prevent it in the future.

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