doi:10.7916/996h-sg59[Document, 1779 January 03]Beatty, JohncorrespondencetextUnited States--History--Revolution, 1775-1783Jay, John, 1745-1829Orders from Congress that reach him often confused and contradictory. Asks John Jay to define his/Beatty's/powers concerning exchange of prisoners. Feels there should be a clear and consistent policy on such exchanges. In a recent instance, brought prisoners from Philadelphia for exchange at this place and was not allowed to pass them to enemy without special orders from special headquarters-although Washington, but six days before, had said nothing of such a requirement.