Laurens, Henry (1724-1792) to William Alexander
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06194 Author/Creator: Laurens, Henry (1724-1792) Place Written: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Type: Letter signed Date: 26 November 1778 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 24.2 x 19.4 cm. Order a Copy
Laurens, a Continental Congressman, informs General Alexander, Earl of Stirling, of a "packet" from Admiral Gambier (possibly James Gambier). States that the packet pertains to "Lieut. Hale & others who were Shipwrecked in a Vessel on the Jersey Shore said to have carried a flag in order to dispense Manifestos." Relates that though Gambier does not think the persons involved in the shipwreck should be detained, Congress has "a twofold reason for differing with him- These people have not only called, but, in every Instance where it might de done as they thought with impunity, treated us as Rebels- on the other hand when it suits their Interest & purposes ... they demand from us, refinements upon the practice of established Independent Nations. God be praised we are our of their reach & I am persuaded our conduct will not be censured by any Court of Europe."
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