Annapolis 26th Apl 1777. —
Sir
Permit us, through you, to lay before Congress, a Copy of a Letter wrote by us to Capt James Nicholson, and of his Answer thereto. ー We do not know nor can conjecture what Reasons Capt Nicholson can have, to think Congress will not disapprove of his Conduct as stated by himself. ー We know very well, that by the Laws and Constitution of this State, no Man in it can be pressed into any Service, and we flatter ourselves, that any Supposition that the Congress will countenance such a flagrant Violation of the Rights of the People within this State, is as false as injurious to that Honorable Body. ー We are very desirous that Congress will give immediate Orders for the Discharge of every impressed Man, and we submit to Consideration, whether the Gross Conduct of Capt Nicholson, and the Contempt in which he holds the executive Power of this State, does not make his Dismission from the Service, not only proper, but, to preserve the Confidence of this State, in the Justice of the Congress, and its regard for our internal Government, highly necessary.
We are Sir with the highest Respect [&c.]
To His Excy
The Presidt of the Congress
Express