"I am directed, sir, to sutimit it totheHon'ble Congress, whether some effectual remedy ought not to be provided against such disorderly and disgraceful proceedings. The soldier, whti plunders the countrj- he is employed to protect, is no better than a robber, and ought to be treated accordingly ; and a severe example, m tlie opinion of tl\o committee, ought to be made of the officer who, without any necessity, or his general's permission, sa fire to the Court House and other

a Extract from a.Ulies-i of -J. W. Touipklns, Esq.

6 Ibi.l.

c ne;itU'i Mtm, S3.

566 HISTORY OF THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. ■

buildings at the White Plains. lie is guilty of tlie crime of arson, and if ho cannot be punished by the articles of -war, ought to be given up to the law3 of tiie land. If so glaring a violation of every sentiment of humanity should be passed over iu silence, if the army is not reasonably restrained fiom such acts of barbarity, the consequence must bo fatal to the cause of a people whose exalted glory it is to be advocates for the rights of luaukind, against the tyranny and oppression of lawless power. The resolutions which the committee of safety have passed upon the subject are herewith transmitted.

"I have the honor to be, ■with great respect, sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, " By order

"PIERRE VAIN CORTLAXDT,

Vice President.^^

"To the HoN'or.ABLE John Hancock,

President of the Congress of the United States. "«