After all, it may appear Presumption in an in-
dividual to address himself to you on a Subject of
such Magnitude, or to say what Measures would
best secure the Interest and Welfare of an whole
Continent. The friendly and favourable Opinion
you have always expressed of me emboldened me
to undertake it; and, (which has greatly added to
the weight of this motive) I have been strongly
impressed with a Sense of Duty upon the Occasion,
which left my Conscience uneasy, and my Heart
afflicted, 'till I had fully discharged it. I am no
Enthusiast. The Case is new and singular to me.
But I could not enjoy a Moment's Peace, till this

Letter



25

Letter was written. With the most ardent Prayers

for your spiritual as well as temporal welfare, I am

Your obed' and sincere Friend and Servant

JACOB duche;.
His Excellency Genl Washington.
DUCHE TO WASHINGTON.
PHILADELPHIA, OCTOBER 13"^, 1777-

Sir: My dear Friend M" Ferguson will deliver
into your Excellency's Hands a Letter, which has
laid by me several Days for want of a safe Convey-
ance, in which I have delivered my Sentiments to
you upon the present State of our unhappy Contest
without Reserve, and with full Confidence in your
Honor. My Mind will remain in a State of pain-
ful Anxiety, 'till I have your candid answer, and
'till I am assured under your own Hand, that I
have not thereby forfeited your Esteem, and that
you are not in the least offended at the Freedom,
with which I have written. By this Eady, you
will have the best opportunity of honoring me
with an Answer. I remain with great Respect
Your Excellency's most sincere

Friend and Servant,
Addressed T^COB DUCHE.
To His Excellency General Washiyigton.
