Henry Laurens 1724-1792 American Revolutionary statesman, replaced Hancock as President of the Continental Congress, captured by the British while attempting to negotiate with the Dutch, imprisoned and exchanged for Cornwallis 1782 Third person A.L.S. in text The President of Congress , 1p. oblong 8vo., [Nov., 1778] to John Browne, Secretary of the Marine Committee. Laurens inquires about an annuity granted to Capt John Skimmer's family. In part: ... The President of Congress... requests to be informed whether the Marine Committee have transmitted an Act of Congress in favor of the late Capt. Skimmer's family, & when. Capt. John Skimmer was a naval war hero, commander of the brig General Gates, and was killed in an engagement in which the Americans took as prizes the schooner Polly and brig Montague. Fine condition.