William Pierce to John Sullivan (May 24, 1787)

My dear Sir New York, May 24th. 1787.

I wrote you several Weeks ago, and informed you the reason why I did not procure for you the Epaulets you wrote to me for. At that time there was not a good pair to be purchased, nor is there a pair yet to be had here that will suit you. Colo. Fish and myself have enquired through the City, but none that are elegant can be found.

In a day or two I shall set off for Philadelphia, at which place it is probable I shall be able to accommodate you. Nothing will give me more pleasure than to serve you at any Time.

The military spirit prevails here so much that all the fashionable gold Epaulets are purchased up to adorn the Shoulders of our young Bucks.

I will thank you sir to have my Certificate dated at Pumpton Plains in New Jersey, Decr. 1st. 1779. It shall be preserved to be handed down from one generation to another.

When I get to Philadelphia I will write you more fully. The Convention, I suppose, will proceed to business sometime next Week. Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, New York, Delaware, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Massachusetts, will be on the floor, Monday next. Connecticut and New Hampshire will it is hoped, be on in a few Days. As for Rhode Island we shall pay no attention to her whether she sends on Deputies or not.

Please to make my respectful compliments to your Lady and Family, in which Mrs. Pierce joins, altho' a perfect stranger.

I am my dear sir, with great esteem and affection, Wm. Pierce