John Jay Papers

From John Jay to Philip Schuyler, 12 February 1778

To Philip Schuyler

Poghkeepsie 12th Feb. 1778

Dear General

The assembly are preparing a Tax Bill & Debates run high on the Question whether unimproved located Lands shall be taxed. They have ordered a separate Bill for that Purpose to be prepared, and seem determined that it shall proceed pari Passu1 with the other.2

I hope you will seriously determine to serve your Country, at least in a legislative Capacity. Class yourself with those great Men of antiquity who, unmoved by the Ingratitude of their Country, omitted no opportunities of promoting the public weal— In this Field Malice cannot prevent your reaping Laurels, & remember that the present State of our Affairs offers you a plentiful Harvest. Set about it then my dear Sir! in earnest.

I know not who will be the Bearer of this Letter, & therefore forbear enlarging. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

John Jay

ALS, NNC (EJ: 13131). Endorsed. Dft, NNC (EJ: 8408).

1Pari passu: on equal footing.

2Here in the draft, JJ excised “I hope that This Plan if now adopted cannot at present be adopted ^executed^.” Schuyler replied on 25 Feb. ALS, NNC (EJ: 7120).

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