Documentary History of the State of New York, Vol. IV

He alone has it in his power to do any thing in that quarter, and I hope he may have an opportunity of severely retaliating this wanton Act of Treason.

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ETHAN ALLEN TO THE N. Y. PROV. CONGRESS.

Ticonderoga 20th July, 1775. RespecraBLe GentLEMEN--

When I reflect on the unhappy controversy which hath many years subsisted between the government of New-York and the settlers on the New-Hampshire Grants, and also contemplate on the friendship and union that hath lately taken place between the government and those its former discontented subjects, in making a united resistance against ministerial vengeance and

~ 920 CONTROVERSY RESPECTING THE _

slavery, I cannot but indulge fond hopes of reconciliation. To promote this salutary end, I shall contribute my influence, assuring your Honours, that your respectful treatment not only

to Mr. Worner and myself, but to the Green Mountain Boys in ,

general, in forming them into a battalion, are by them duly regarded, and I will be responsible that they will retaliate this favour by wholly hazarding their lives, if needs be, in the common cause of America.

I hope no gentleman in the Congress will retain any preconceived prejudice against me, as on my part I shall not against any of them ; but as soon as opportunity may permit and the public cause not suffer therby, shall hold myself in readiness to settle all former disputes and grievances on jionorable terms.

I am, gentlemen, with the greatest respect, Your devoted, most obedient humble serv', Eruan ALLEN. To the Honble Provincial Congress, New York