“Gen. Stark to Meshech Ware.

Saratoga, 14th December, 1781.

Dear Sir :—Notwithstanding my letters to you seem to be treated with silent contempt, yet, when any thing intervenes where I think my country or the state of New Hampshire in a particular manner deeply interested, I conceive it my duty, apart from common politeness, to inform you of it. Such I deem the late riotous conduct of the state of Vermont, in extending their pretended claim to the westward, and threatening to support it by a military force; and, indeed, those within the twenty-mile line are actually in arms, in open defiance and violation of the rules of Congress; and are actually opposing themselves to the troops raised by the state of New York to put their laws and constitution into execution. Two detachments, one acting under the authority of Vermont, and the other under officers owing allegiance to the state of New York, are assembled now at St. Coick, in opposition. For further particulars I refer you to Capt. Fogg, who will have the honor of delivering this.

I have been favored with a perusal of the proceedings of the legislature of Vermont state, on the subject of their being received into the union of the United States, and find that they have not only rejected the resolutions of Congress, but in reality have disavowed their authority; and I farther perceive that, in their great wisdom, they have thought proper to appoint a committee to determine whether New Hampshire shall exercise jurisdiction to Connecticut river or not. This proceeding appears too weak and frivolous. For men of sense to suppose that New Hampshire would ever consent to an indignity so flagrant, and an abuse so pointed as this seems to be, is what I own surprises me. However, I hope, and indeed have no doubt, that New Hampshire will be more politic than to take notice of this daring insolence. What I mean by notice is, to think of treating with them upon this or any other subject until Congress shall come to a final determination with respect to these people.

I am, sir, with high respect,

Your most obedient serv’t,

John Stark.”

Reference Data:

Collections of the Vermont Historical Society, Vol. 2, by Vermont Historical Society, 1871, page 215