148 Journal and Correspondence

C. S. C.

A little attention to our public affairs and the State of our
Army will convince any man that the most vigorous exertions
are necessary and must be adopted to procure our quota. I
shall not enlarge on this important subject. I beg leave to
call your immediate attention to it, and if a moment's delay can
be granted, be pleased to consider the following extract of a
letter from Gen^l Washington to his friend Col^o Harrison, of
12 Instant. With great truth I can add, that Heaven alone
knows upon what principle they (the enemy) act, or by what
means, they are kept quiet. That we are not able to make
the least stand, if they move, is as clear as the sun in its
Meridian Brightness. Whilst you are at an expence equal to
the maintenance of a large army and expect that we are very
strong, we have scarce men enough to mount the common
guard.
I thought this Intelligence necessary for your information,
but the communication of it to our General Assembly must
be made with every caution of secrecy. The knowledge of it
may bring destruction on our Country.
I wish it was in my power to advise in the present crisis.
The mode in the Resolve of Congress to Gen^l Smallwood
may be of some service. The Gentlemen of this County have
not as yet assisted, by public meetings and associations, to
carry any public measures into execution. I beg leave to
submit the enclosed proposal to your consideration, if adopted
it ought to be late in the Session, and after all other exertions
have been made. I am, Gent, with regard and Respect,
The Honble Council of Safety Your obedient Servant,
of Maryland Sam^l Chase.
Annapolis

C. S. J.

Friday February 21, 1777.
Council Met. Present as on yesterday.

Ordered That the Western Shore Treasurer pay to Captain
Joshua George Seventy Nine Pounds Twelve Shillings and
nine pence.
Adjourned till next Day 10 o'Clock

C. S. C.

[Andrew Buchanan to Council.]

Sirs. Harford County 17^th February 1777.
We received the money remited us by M^r Norris and shall
take care to return account of the expenditure. The money
we formerly had we remited acc^t of. If mischances has hap-
pened that it has not come to your hands we will furnish