of the Council of Safety, 1776. 107

know of in our County and but two of those taken from non-
enrollers and non-associators.
As to Blanketts, there are none we know of in any of the
Stores here, nor is there any way that we can think off by
which there appears any probability of getting any, unless it
be by applying to different Familys, some of whom may on
this occasion perhaps furnish a few, tho' this is uncertain, as
there seems a scarcity of Blanketts among the people, how-
ever on our receiving cash you may be assured, we shall
endeavour by every means in our power to procure them.
We know of no person this way that can be engaged to
make Knapsacks with Haversacks, priming wires and Brushes,
Camp Kettles, Canteens or Wooden Bottles, if we should
hereafter be informed of any such we shall advise you of it.
We are Gent. Your obd^t & very hum^l Serv^ts
p order of the Committee of observation
James Murray, Chairman.

P. S. We learn from M^r Goldsborough that we are to
receive a supply of powder and ball or Lead. We should be
glad to be furnished with it as quick as possible being in great
want of it.

[Dent to Council.]

Gentⁿ Charles County 23^rd July 1776.
The Inclosed is the commission under which I've had the
Honour to act, and more especially by your late order, until
the 21^st Instant when, an order was presented to me from your
Honours appointing Major Thomas Price to the command.
Be pleased to take notice that I will not in future accept of
any Commission from any body of men, under whom the
same controling power exists that has depriv'd me of the late
command. If you've had any insinuations touching my con-
duct during the short time I have been in actual service,
justice requires I should be heard, when, I flatter myself I shall
be able not only to justify my conduct, but in some measure
entitled to the Thanks of every sensible and judicious man,
which, together with the success of the American arms have
been and still shall be, the study and sincere wish of your
obed^t Servant. Jno. Dent.

Original.

[Baltimore Committee to Council.]

Baltimore July 23^rd 1776.
Gentlemen. Your order of the 16^th for the purchase of
Blankets and arms was yesterday taken into consideration by

Original.