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Morristown, 7 February, 1780.
SIR,
The inclosed copy of a representation from Colonel Barry, an Assistant Deputy-Quartermaster-General in this State, will show your Excellency that a new difficulty has arisen to delay transportation. It is very unfortunate that we should lose the advantage of this favorable term of conveyance, as the time is just at hand when it will be almost impossible to bring forward the supplies.
The inhabitants are unwilling to give their aid, at the prices regulated by law, unless the regulation extends through all the States. I do not consider myself authorized to instruct my agents to break over the laws of the State; and now find a stagnation in bringing on the provisions.
People will withhold their services in this State, as long as they receive a less compensation than their neighbours. They seem to claim it as a right, that they be allowed their usual prices until the other States adopt measures for enforcing a regulation. I do not hear them object to have a limitation of prices take place ; but they insist upon its not being binding on them till it is so on others. your Excellency can foresee the consequences of the present difficulty, and will direct and authorize me in what manner to proceed. I am your Excellency's Most obedient, humble servant,
- Nathanael Greene
- Source:
- Correspondence of the American Revolution; Being Letters of Eminent Men to George Washington, from the Time of His Taking Command of the Army to the End of His Presidency, Volume II., Jared Sparks, 1853
