July 25th 1776
Sir,
We have taken into consideration your favour of the 14 inst. and do applaud your Conduct and that of the Militia under your
Command, for their readiness in assisting to quell the late mutiny among the regulars at WilmingtonWe are inclined to believe the unhappy tumult and Confusion proceeded from an Anxious desire among the soldiers of distressing the enemy and preventing their being supplied with any kind of provisions and not from any dislike or Aversion to the Service of their Country. We expect you will furnish us with a General return of the men under your Command and favour us with your Opinion as to the necessity of keeping the Militia longer on duty. as Companies which form the Militia Brigades must be disbanded at the Expiration of three months from the Completion of each respective Co. agreeable to the resolve of Congress; We think should they be longer wanted, it would be prudent after they are dismissed to enlist again under proper officers to be by you appointed, subject to the approbation of the Council all such as may be willing to Continue, and should this expedient fail and the service of the country require it we shall order from the different Brigades as many of the Militia as may be Necessary. The Barracks may be occupied by the regular troops in the Absence of the Militia and no longer. You will by no means Join the detachments under your command with the Continental troops, unless absolutely Necessary and should there be an occasion for such a junction, you will draw off the Militia again as soon as you may Judge it prudent, and keep them separate and distinct from the regular Army. Inclosed we send you the thanks of this board and remain Sir, with respect