Whipple, William, 1730-1785 to John Langdon

Written by Whipple to Langdon. Both were members of the Continental Congress from New Hampshire. Whipple would sign the Declaration of Independence in July 1776, while Langdon would leave Congress in June 1776. References Langdon's letter of 19 March 1776. Rejoices over arrival of two powder vessels. Asks "what think you of the Retreat of the Barbarians from Boston, it will be a pretty story to tell their Master"? Says Admiral Hopkins was at New Providence, North Carolina where he found 200 cannons and many cannonballs, but no powder. Says the people of North Carolina took 1800 stands of arms from "the Rebels" there and found a chest of money with 15,000 pounds in it. Hopes Hopkins will bring back a report of Dunmore, Cambell or Martin. Hopes Langdon can get anchors in Boston, but doesn't know where the cannons will come from. Suggests that Providence, Rhode Island can supply the cannons. Wants an update on politics at Portsmouth. In an apparent reference to George Washington asks "can they yet reconcile themselves to that Illustrious Stranger that was so much fear'd, Common Sense has made all the Southern Colonies his Friend, & I hope the Northern Colonies will soon open their arms to receive him[?] its my opinion under the Rose that the Salvation of American depends on him." Free frank is Whipple's signature.