To Hon. John Jay May 20, 1779

From the original letter at the Library of Congress.

Philadelphia May 20th 1779

Honble Sirs

Understanding that Mr. Deane has mentioned or alluded to me, in his narrative, and likewise in several of his letters to this Honble (House), I request that I may be admitted to a per(usal) of the originals, or furnished with copies of such parts of his said narrative and letters as refer (to) me either by name or as the author of the Publication under the signature of Common Sense of which Publications (I) am the author. If the justice of complying with the application do not instantly appear, I request that it may be laid aside, as I would not wish to be even the accidental means of losing a moment’s time.

A am Honble Sirs your Honors Obt Humble Serv

THOMAS PAINE