Philada. June 18 1775 Hond. & beloved Sr.,

I could not omitt this opportunity of Congratulating you on yr. appointment to the second Command in the American Army & of the heroic & amiable General Washington to the first Command. He will be with you soon I expect, to strengthen yr. hands & rejoice your hearts. Mean while I dare say you will keep a good look out against Surprizes.

It has given us great Greif that We have heard so Seldom, if at all perticularly from the Camp. I think we have exerted our utmost attention to yr. Welfare, the perticulars of which we are not yet prepared to express. We have no perticular news—but by our Presidents Letters you may Learn Some matters which it is needless for me to repeat.

Remember me to my many friends in Camp. Wishing you health & prosperity I subscribe yr. friend & Servt.

R T Paine

RC (Norton Collection of Signers of the Declaration of Independence, MSS. 3269, Western Reserve Historical Society, Cleveland, Ohio) . Internal address: “(To Genl. Ward)”; endorsed.