To Thomas Jefferson from C. P. Bennett, 22 July 1807

Sir,	New Castle 22nd. July 1807 (Delaware)

The Citizens of New Castle animated with strong indignation at the late outrageous attack made by the British Ship Leopard on the American frigate Chesapeake, and anxious to be fully prepared to support such measures as the wisdom of the General Government may finally adopt in relation to this transaction, have associated themselves together and formed a Company, styled “the first Volunteer Co. of Artillerists of the state of Delaware,”—Of which the undersigned have been chosen the Officers.

There exists in this State no effective militia law, nor is there any provision for arming troops that may be raised. These circumstances have induced us to apply to you on the part of our Company for two Brass long nines—two brass fours, with their necessary apparatus, and one hundred fuzees, Bayonets, Belts, Cartouch Boxes &ca. When these are received this Company will be completely equipped and ready at a moments warning to enter on any Service that may be directed by the General Government, to repel foreign aggression, or maintain our rights as an independent nation.

Accept the assurance of our high Consideration & cordial esteem

C P. Bennett Capt.

John Bird Capt. Lieut:

J:R: Black First Lieut.

W I Frazer Second Lieutenant

DNA: RG 107—LR—Letters Received by the Secretary of War.

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