On This Day: Washington to ready troops to New York to prepare for a British invasion

The following is an installment of “On This Day,” a series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Jan. 29, 1776

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

John Hancock, the President of the Second Continental Congress, writes to Gen. George Washington. Hancock assures Washington that Congress applauds the general’s call for reinforcements to Canada. He expresses hope that, in spite of the failed Dec. 31, 1775, assault on Quebec, the loss might be retrieved.

Hancock notes that he has procured congressionally approved appropriations of $12,500 to defray the expenses of raising, equipping, and paying the Massachusetts regiment that was set to go to