Gentlemen ー The Congress having been informed of a very extraordinary oath, ordered by Gov. Tryon to be administered to passengers in the late packet, whereby they bound themselves not disclose any thing relative to American affairs except to the Ministry have appointed a committee, (of which I am one) to ascertain this fact.

I must therefore request of you, gentlemen, to appoint proper persons to examine into this matter, and if possible ascertain the truth of the report, by affidavits taken before the mayor or one of the juqges of the supreme court. I have the honour to be, gentlemen, [&c.]

John Jay. To the Honble. the Committee of Safety for the Colony of New York