Charles Thomson to Wythe et al., 21 June 1785

The honble Thomas Jefferson, George Wythe, George Reed, James Monroe, Isaac Smith, William Patterson

Sir,               Office of Secretary of Congress. June 21. 1785

    The Honble. John Rutledge, Robert Hanson Harrison and William Grayson having declined their appointment to sit in the federal court for the trial of a controversy between the States of Massachusetts and New York, the Agents for the said states have met and by joint consent have agreed upon the Honble. Samuel Johnson of North-Carolina, the Honble. William Fleming of Virginia and the Honble. John Sitgreaves of North Carolina in the room of those three who have declined. It is further agreed that the court shall meet at the city of Williamsburg in the state of Virginia on the third Tuesday of November next. As soon as the acceptance of the gentlemen last appointed shall be known a commission will be made out in due form constituting a court to hear & determine the controversy aforesaid according to the Articles of Confederation.

    With great respect, I have the honor to be, Sir, Your Most Obedt & Most humble Servt.