Sir James Jay's Invisible Ink
James Jay invented an invisible ink that he gave to the Patriots before changing teams and becoming a Loyalist.
Sir James Jay
James Jay was already a teenager when his more famous brother, John Jay, was born.
Just a few years later, James moved to Europe to study medicine.
Despite his absence, Jay still worked to improve the colonies and his efforts in raising money for the establishment of King's College in New York City ended with his receiving a knighthood.
Invisible Ink
Despite spending most of his life in London, James returned to North America when the Revolutionary War broke out.
With him, he brought an invisible ink he invented.
This significant potion (which George Washington referred to as “sympathetic stain”) was used by the Continental Congress to communicate with Benjamin Franklin and Silas Deane in France as well as the Culper Spy Ring during their infiltration of New York City.
Interestingly, James never wrote down his recipe for his ‘white ink’.
Self Sacrifice
Sir James would serve for five years in the New York Provincial Congress during the middle of the Revolutionary War.
However, becoming discontented with the direction the United States was headed, he hatched a plan to have himself captured by the British. Afterward, he was sent to London and put on parole.
The details from this part of James’ life are a bit murky, but it seems he maintained his allegiance to the United States.
Without a Home
James’ loyalties would continue to be questioned by both the Americans and the British for the rest of his life.
His brother John held a grudge and even avoided James when they were both in Paris years later.
Eventually, Jay returned to the United States and settled in New Jersey where he practiced as a Physician and even reconnected with many old friends.
Want to learn about another Founder-turned-Loyalist?
Great, check this article out:
Isaac Low and the Committee of Fifty-One
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