As the promotion of useful Discoveries in the Arts and sciences is an Object worthy the Attention of Enlightened men and accordingly has in all ages and Countries met with Patrons amongst those most distinguished for their knowledge, good sense and Patriotism, we doubt not but that a Scheme, that promises so f much improvement will meet with advocates and support in the general Assembly of New-York, over which you so honorably to yourself and to them preside -- And we therefore take the Liberty to request your Countenance to James Rumsey's Petition so far as the prayer thereof shall seem to you Consistant with the public good, and if it should not be Contrary to the Rules of the House, we should take it a particular favor that this Letter be read from the Chair in order to bespeak the favorable attention of the Honorable members to the Subject, We are

With the greatest Respect Your assured Friends and obedient humble servants MiERS Fisher Benjamin Wynkoop Levi Hollingsworth The Hono^'ie John Lansing Esq^ Speaker of the House of Assembly

EARLY STEAM NAVIGATION.

A LIST OF THE RUMSEIAN SOCIETY. His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esq"^. William Barton

Arthur St. Clair William Bingham Benjamin Wynkoop James Tunchard John Jones Levi Hollingsworth Joseph James John Wilson Geo Duffield Reed & Forde Woodrop & Joseph Sims William Redwood & Son

Endorsed

A Letter from Miers Fisher and others of the Rumseian Society at Philadelphia to the Speaker of the Assembly in New York.

In Assembly Dec ]8th 1788.