From John Jay to John Dickinson, 22 March 1779
To John Dickinson
Philadelphia 22d March 1779
Dear Sir
Your Election to a Seat in Congress is an Event for many Reasons pleasing to me. I have for some time past flattered myself with soon having the Pleasure of again seeing you in a Place which you formerly filled with advantage to your Country and Reputation to yourself.
Permit me to hint that your State is unrepresented, & that were you apprized of the very important Affairs now under Consideration, you would think with me that your Attendance ought not to be longer delayed—1 I am Dear Sir with great Respect Your most obedient & h’ble Servt
John Jay
the Hon’ble John Dickinson Esqr.
ALS, PHi: M. O. Logan (EJ: 1110). Endorsed by a member of the Dickinson family: “My father took his seat in Congress in April 1779.”
1. Dickinson was elected to Congress from the state of Delaware on 18 Jan. 1779 but did not attend until 23 Apr. Of the other two Delaware delegates, Thomas McKean had attended 1–24 Feb., and Nicholas van Dyke attended from 23 Mar. to 17 Apr. and 1–8 May 1779.