To George Washington from Massachusetts Legislature, 24 July 1778
From Massachusetts Legislature
State of Massachusetts Bay
Council Chamber [Boston] July 24.
1778.
Sir
Capt. John Blunt the Bearer hereof who has been a long time in Captivity on Long Island and has suffered much from the Ill treatment of the Enemy, yet nevertheless he is very desireous of continuing in the Service of the United States.1 And he having Sustained a good Character as an officer as appears by Sundry Brigadiers in the Continental Army, the Council have taken the liberty to recommend the said Blunt to your Excellency for some Office in the Army, Provided there is any Vacancy which he is capeable of filling with advantage to himself and the Publick. Your complyance herewith will greatly oblige an old Officer who is ever ready to render all the service to the Publick that is in his power. I am Sir with all due Respect Your Excellencys Obedient Humble Servant
President2
Copy, M-Ar: Revolution Letters, 1778; LB, M-Ar: Secretary’s Letterbooks, vol. 7.
1. The legislature was apparently referring to John Blunt (1736–1804) of Winthrop, Mass., who was commissioned a lieutenant in the 11th Continental Infantry in January 1776. Captured at Long Island on 27 Aug. 1776, he was exchanged on 20 April 1778. For short periods in 1779 and 1780 Blunt served as a captain in the Massachusetts militia.
2. The council president at this time was Jeremiah Dummer Powell.