“It is with peculiar satisfaction that I execute their request, by making, in their name, on behalf of our suffering fellow-citizens, the most grateful acknowledgements for the seasonable benevolence of the common council of the city of New-York. Their sympathy is balm to our wounds.
“We acknowledge the Divine interposition, whereby the hearts of so many around us have been touched with our distress, and have united in our relief.
“May the Almighty Disposer of all events be graciously pleased to protect your citizens from the dreadful calamity with which we are now visited; whilst we humbly kiss the rod, and improve by the dispensation.
“The part, sir, which you personally take in our afflictions, and which you have so pathetically expressed in your letter, excites in the breasts of the committee the warmest sensations of fraternal affection.
“The refreshing rain which fell the day before yesterday, though light, and the cool weather which hath succeeded, appear to have given a check to the prevalence of the disorder: of this we have satisfactory proofs, as well in the decrease of the funerals, as in the applications for removal to the hospital.
“I have, at your request, this day drawn upon you, at sight, in favour of the president and directors of the Bank of North America, for the sum of five thousand dollars, the benevolent donations of the common council of the city of New-York.
“With sentiments of the greatest esteem and regard,
“I am, sir,
“Your most obedient humble servant,
“MATTH. CLARKSON.
“Philadelphia, Oct. 17, 1793.
“Richard Varick, mayor
of the city of New-York.”